Bogota & Zipaquira: Salt Cathedral Private Tour with Lunch

Summary

Descend into zipaquira’s salt cathedral then lunch in town

You’ll descend deep beneath Zipaquira to explore Colombia’s famous Salt Cathedral with a local guide, tracing its illuminated tunnels and sculptures before surfacing for a traditional Colombian lunch in town. Expect sensory surprises—from cool mineral air underground to warm plates above—and plenty of stories along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely left Bogota when the city noise faded and the hills started rolling past the window. Our driver, Mauricio, pointed out where the clouds dip low over the Sabana—he said it’s always like that in the mornings here. By the time we reached Zipaquira, I could smell something earthy in the air, almost like wet stone. The entrance to the Salt Cathedral is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it—just a quiet slope down into shadow. Inside, everything felt hushed except for our footsteps echoing off salt walls. It’s strange how cold it gets so quickly underground.

Our guide switched between Spanish and English without missing a beat (I tried to keep up—my Spanish is still terrible), explaining each station of the cross carved right into the rock. At one point, he let us run our hands along a wall—salt crystals rough against my palm. There was this moment under the main dome where colored lights flickered across sculptures and I caught myself just staring, forgetting to take photos. I didn’t expect to feel so small down there, honestly. The whole place smells faintly mineral, almost metallic but clean.

Back above ground, sunlight felt too bright at first. We wandered through Zipaquira’s old square where kids chased pigeons and someone was selling arepas from a cart (I almost caved). Lunch was at a little spot tucked behind blue shutters—rice, beans, some kind of beef stew that tasted way better than it looked. Our guide laughed when I tried to pronounce “ajiaco”—I probably butchered it but he seemed happy I tried. Walking those colonial streets after lunch felt slower somehow; maybe it was just full stomachs or maybe that’s just Zipaquira’s pace.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Salt Cathedral and Lunch

• Pickup from hotel in Bogotá
• Travel to Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
• Tour underground Salt Cathedral
• Visit Zipaquirá town and central square
• Enjoy typical Colombian lunch
• Return to Bogotá

Top questions

How far is Zipaquira Salt Cathedral from Bogota?

It’s about 50 kilometers north of Bogota; travel time is roughly 1–1.5 hours by car.

Is hotel pickup included in this private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and return are included with private transportation.

Do I need to speak Spanish for this tour?

No—your guide can speak your chosen language or you can use an audioguide/translator if needed.

Is lunch part of the day trip package?

Yes, if you choose that option—a typical Colombian lunch is included in town after visiting the cathedral.

Is the Salt Cathedral wheelchair accessible?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; strollers and service animals are allowed.

What will I see inside Zipaquira Salt Cathedral?

You’ll see stations of the cross carved in salt rock, a central dome with sculptures and lighting effects, plus natural salt formations.

How long do we spend underground at the cathedral?

The guided portion inside typically lasts around 1–2 hours depending on your pace and interest.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Bogota by private vehicle, entry to Zipaquira Salt Cathedral with an expert local guide or audioguide in your language, all necessary safety measures, plus a traditional Colombian lunch if you select that option before returning comfortably back to your hotel or preferred drop-off point.