Things To Do
in Nemocón
Nemocón is a small Andean town in Cundinamarca, perched high in the Sabana de Bogotá with cool days and crisp nights. It is best known for its iconic Catedral de Sal, an underground salt mine that offers a surreal, otherworldly tour. The town blends colonial charm with rural countryside, offering easy day trips to nearby lakes and viewpoints.
Visitors come for a relaxed pace, spectacular geology, and photo-worthy streets that reflect everyday life in the Andean highlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Nemocón, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Plaza de la Independencia, where you can soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy the morning sun.
In the afternoon, visit the renowned Salt Mine of Nemocón, where you can take a guided tour through the impressive underground tunnels. Marvel at the stunning salt formations and learn about the history and significance of salt mining in the region. After the tour, relax in the nearby park, enjoying a picnic lunch while surrounded by beautiful greenery.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in traditional Colombian dishes such as bandeja paisa or sancocho. Enjoy the lively ambiance of the town as locals gather for the evening, perhaps even catching a live music performance. After dinner, take a peaceful walk through the town center, appreciating the twinkling lights and the charm of Nemocón at night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, preparing for an adventurous exploration of the Salt Mine. Once you arrive at the mine, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about the mine's history and the surrounding area. Equip yourself with a helmet and flashlight as you prepare to descend into the depths of this unique subterranean world.
Continue your exploration of the salt mine, where you'll encounter stunning salt sculptures and a salt cathedral that will leave you in awe. The cool underground climate provides a refreshing contrast to the warm Colombian sun above. After your tour, take some time to visit the small gift shop, where you can purchase local crafts and salt products as souvenirs.
Return to the surface and enjoy a light dinner at a local eatery specializing in regional cuisine. Engage with locals and other travelers as you share stories about your day of adventure. As night falls, unwind at a cozy café with a warm drink, reflecting on the day's experiences and planning for tomorrow.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transportation | $0.50-2 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏛️Catedral de Sal entrance | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique salt mine experience
- Pleasant, small-town atmosphere
- Close proximity to Bogotá for day trips
- Rich Andean scenery and photography opportunities
- Limited nightlife
- Smaller selection of restaurants
- Weather can be unpredictable in the highlands
- Some attractions may require a drive from the town
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
Places to Visit in Nemocón
Visit one of these nice places.
Underground salt mine with shimmering walls and dramatic lighting—an otherworldly setting for photography.
Colorful colonial facades, a shaded plaza, and local life—great for street photography and portraits.
Ridge lines offering expansive Andean scenery and rolling farmland—perfect for wide landscapes.
Food in Nemocón
Nemocón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken, potato, and corn soup flavored with guasca; a regional twist on a classic Colombian dish.
Must-Try!
A thicker, chewier corn arepa often served with cheese or hogao (tomato-onion sauce).
Grilled trout from local streams, commonly accompanied by yucca or potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market offering fresh produce, simple prepared foods, and friendly stalls—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “hola” and use courteous forms like usted with adults and elders.
Modest, comfortable clothing is appropriate for churches and villages; sturdy shoes for cobblestones and uneven sidewalks.
Safety
Tipping in Nemocón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for cafes and street vendors are appreciated.
Cash (COP) and cards are widely accepted in towns; many smaller vendors prefer cash for lower-denomination purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities and clear photography.
Frequent, brief showers; bring rain gear; trails can be slippery but the landscape is lush.
Nemocón at Night
Hiking in Nemocón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike to the legend-rich lagoon near Guatavita, with historic significance.
Popular area for short hikes and rock climbing with dramatic cliffs.
Airports
How to reach Nemocón by plane.
Bogotá’s major international hub; about 60-120 minutes from Nemocón by car, depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving domestic flights; useful for reaching Boyacá more quickly from the north.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families and farming communities; a mix of mestizo/white heritage with rural roots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; local matches and informal games in town squares.
The Andean countryside is ideal for road biking and mountain biking.
Light hiking on surrounding hills and rural trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nemocón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes can be adapted; ask for plant-based options or substitutions such as beans, rice, and fresh vegetables.