The small town of Zipaquira is famous for its salt mines and for the Salt Cathedral now built inside the network of monumental chambers and tunnels that were left behind when commercial mining operations ceased. This cathedral is unlike any other in the world, in terms of its innovative architecture. It was opened in 1995 and represents an eclectic mix of religion and architecture to maximise protection from the ever-present risks of working in a mine. The walk-through Stations of the Cross in the mine are a poignant representation of Jesus' last steps, and they culminate in a three-part cavernous subterranean cathedral.
Visit Zipaquira and a traditional farm!A tour of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is one of the most spectacular day trips from Bogota. During this day tour from Bogota, we will take you to the small, traditional town of Zipaquira, home of the stunning structure built inside the extensive caves of an old salt mine. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is a true testimony to the miners' faith in a higher power and one of the most notable achievements in Colombian architecture. After visiting the salt mine, we will head to a hacienda (a Colombian farm). The farm owners will welcome us like family and prepare a delicious and traditional Colombian lunch. Afterwards, you will get a hands-on experience as you participate in important farm and agricultural activities. This hacienda tour, plus exploring the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, will introduce you to an authentic side of Colombian culture and you will enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery surrounding Bogota, Colombia. Departure Time: 9 am Tuesday - Sunday EXPERIENCE TYPE Culture & Traditions |
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Tour Highlights
Zipaquira
Visit an underground Salt Cathedral
Tocancipa
Visit a Traditional Local Farm
Agriculture is very important in this region and many of the farms in the area have been operating for many years with their owners witnessing the changes and progress of the region through generations. So, in addition to the salt cathedral tour you will be visiting a very traditional farm surrounded by the splendid landscapes of the Bogota savannah and a beautiful colonial farmhouse.
What to Expect
Detailed Itinerary
Departure Time: 9 am
Zipaquira is located about 50 km north of Bogota. It will take us approximately 1 hour to reach our destination. We will spend about 1.5 or 2 hours inside the Salt Cathedral. During our time in the cathedral, an expert guide will take you through the Stations of the Cross. At each station you will see a symbolic representation of events from Jesus' last journey before his crucifixion. At the end of this walk, we will come to the main dome and the three naves of the cathedral that are interconnected by a gigantic crack, which symbolises the birth and death of Christ. You will learn about Colombian culture, religion and architecture during this day tour. Once we finish our visit to the cathedral, we will head to a traditional Colombian farm.
The farm owners will give us a warm welcome and start this portion of the Bogota day tour by showing us the old farmhouse. We will eat a traditional Colombian lunch in the main dining room of the hacienda. This is your chance to learn a little bit about traditional Colombian food. After lunch, we will explore the fields around the house then head to the milking station. A farmhand will even teach us how to milk the cows at the hacienda. We will then go to the hacienda's main kitchen where the farm owners will teach us the step-by-step process of making the type of cheese popular in this region of Colombia. We will end this Bogota day tour by enjoying a delicious cup of Colombian coffee prepared by the person in charge of the kitchen. Afterwards, we will start the journey back to Bogota where we will drop you off at your hotel.
Finish Time: 5 pm
Essential Information
What's Included
- Private transfer to and from the hotel
- Guided tour in English
- Entry tickets to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira
- Traditional Colombian lunch
- Day tour insurance
What's Not Included
- Any other personal expenses and tips
How to Book
If you wish to book this tour, please click on the yellow "Book Now" button, select the date, number of people, complete the details and go through a secured online payment platform.
If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact us.