One Day Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, You can not miss this Wonder of Colombia

Experience the Wonder of Colombia’s Salt Cathedral with a Private Day Tour from Bogotá

If you’re exploring Colombia and want a memorable day trip, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is an absolute must-see — a marvel carved from salt, filled with religious symbolism and stunning architecture. For about $85 per person, this 6-hour private tour offers a comfortable and flexible way to visit one of Colombia’s most iconic sites. Your guide will pick you up from your Bogotá hotel in a private vehicle, making the trip both easy and intimate, without the crowds typical of group tours.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines history, faith, and impressive craftsmanship all in one visit. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can enjoy a more personalized experience, with flexibility on departure times — morning or afternoon, according to your schedule. And the inclusion of all fees and taxes plus insurance provides peace of mind, with the only additional expense being lunch.

A possible consideration is that this tour involves moderate physical activity — climbing stairs, walking through the salt tunnels, and exploring the cathedral’s intricate chambers — so travelers should be comfortable with some physical exertion. It’s best suited for those with a good level of mobility and an interest in religious sites, architecture, or Colombia’s unique underground wonders.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, religious visitors, and curious travelers wanting a deeper look into Colombia’s cultural treasures, all while enjoying the comfort of a private guide.

Key Points

• Private and Comfortable: A fully private vehicle and guide provide flexibility and intimacy.
• Unique Architecture: Explore the Salt Cathedral, a stunning underground church built from salt and carved artistry.
• Historical Significance: The New Cathedral was completed in 1995, with much of the original salt carvings preserved.
• Convenient Timing: Morning and afternoon departures cater to your schedule.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Fees, taxes, and insurance are included, with only lunch extra.
• Physical Activity: Moderate walking and stair climbing may be needed, so pack comfortable shoes.

Exploring the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

An Overview of the Salt Cathedral

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is an extraordinary underground church built within the tunnels of a salt mine, located about 50 kilometers north of Bogotá. Opened in 1995, it’s a religious monument and a marvel of engineering and artistry. The cathedral’s interior features three naves, a huge cross visible from outside, and numerous carved figures and religious symbols made from salt. Its construction was a feat of faith and craftsmanship, transforming a working salt mine into a sacred space.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

Your guide will pick you up early in Bogotá and take you directly to Zipaquirá, avoiding the hassle of public transportation or self-driving on unfamiliar roads. Once there, you’ll enter the New Salt Cathedral, which houses most of the original carvings and religious artwork from the historic cathedral — including the Virgin Morenita, the main altar, the manger, angels, cherubs, and Miguel Sopó’s famous work, La Piedad.

The interior of the cathedral is both awe-inspiring and contemplative. The central nave is dominated by a massive cross, and the floors are decorated with salt carvings that reflect light and create a surreal, almost spiritual atmosphere. Beyond the religious art, you’ll appreciate the unique underground architecture: carved from salt, lit subtly to highlight its natural shimmer, and designed to evoke awe and reverence.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a pick-up in Bogotá, where your guide will explain what awaits at Zipaquirá. The first stop is the Salt Cathedral itself, where you’ll spend ample time exploring its chambers, tunnels, and religious sculptures. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each carved figure — not just as art, but as expressions of faith and devotion.

Next, you’ll see the monumental cross visible from outside before you enter, setting the spiritual tone. Inside, the floor is a 78-meter circle representing the world, with various religious symbols carved into the salt. The guide will highlight the different naves — the central one and the two lateral ones — and point out details that might otherwise be missed.

The Experience from a Traveller’s Perspective

One reviewer described the visit as a “spectacular experience”, emphasizing how religion and craftsmanship come together in this underground marvel. Another mentioned how “a man and his faith can work wonders,” reflecting the deep devotion embedded in the site’s construction.

The tour also includes a visit to the Old Salt Mines if time permits, giving a glimpse into the labor-intensive history of salt extraction in Colombia. This background adds richness to understanding the importance of salt in local culture and economy.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• Transportation: The private vehicle ensures a comfortable, direct trip with no need to navigate unfamiliar roads.
• Duration: Six hours total, giving enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
• Physical Requirements: Expect some walking, stairs, and uneven surfaces; wear comfortable shoes.
• Best for: Those interested in religion, architecture, or unique underground sites. Also, good for travelers who prefer a guided, private experience rather than crowded tours.

What’s Not Included

The tour fee covers all fees, taxes, transportation, and insurance, but does not include lunch. Planning ahead for a meal or snack is recommended, especially if you want to extend your time exploring the town of Zipaquirá itself.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits history and architecture lovers, religious visitors, and curious travelers who want to see one of Colombia’s most stunning and unusual monuments. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided experiences that provide context and storytelling, making the visit more meaningful. It’s also a good choice if you prefer the comfort and privacy of a dedicated vehicle and guide over group tours or public transport.

However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility challenges, check the physical demands of exploring the salt tunnels, as some walking and stairs are involved.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at the Salt Cathedral.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, making for a hassle-free trip from Bogotá to Zipaquirá.

What is the price per person?
The cost is around $85, which covers all fees, taxes, and insurance, making it a good value for a private guided experience.

Are there different departure times?
Yes, morning and afternoon departures are available to fit your schedule.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to some walking and stairs inside the salt mines. Wear weather-appropriate clothing as the underground environment stays cool.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Children and older travelers should be comfortable with walking and stair climbing.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before/after the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.

Is the tour private or group?
This particular experience is fully private, meaning only your party will participate, which enhances comfort and flexibility.

This private Salt Cathedral tour from Bogotá offers a balanced mix of beautiful architecture, spiritual reflection, and cultural history, all in a manageable half-day trip. Whether you’re a believer, a history enthusiast, or a lover of extraordinary sights, you’ll find this experience provides both insight and inspiration. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a visit that might just deepen your appreciation for Colombia’s underground treasures.