Things To Do
in Zipaquirá
Zipaquirá is a charming town located near Bogotá, the capital of Colombia. It is famous for its stunning Salt Cathedral, an underground church carved out of salt deposits. Visitors can also explore the historic town center with its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by exploring the iconic Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, marveling at the impressive sculptures and lighting. After the cathedral, visit the nearby Salt Park for scenic views and a brief hike.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Colombian dishes such as bandeja paisa. Post-lunch, explore the quaint streets of Zipaquirá, stopping by artisan shops and local markets.
Dine in a cozy eatery and try local specialties while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. End your evening with a walk in the main square, soaking in the lively ambiance.
Visit the Plaza de los Comuneros and appreciate the historical buildings surrounding it. Then, check out the local museum to learn about Zipaquirá's history and salt mining.
Lunch at a traditional Colombian café to experience local flavors. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Guatavitá Lagoon for stunning views and nature hikes.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a view of the lagoon as the sun sets. Relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance before returning to Zipaquirá.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to the famous Salt Cathedral, an architectural marvel carved from salt.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with colonial architecture and local traditions.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby Andean landscapes and natural parks.
- A great destination for ecotourism and adventure activities.
- Convenient location close to Bogotá, making it easily accessible for day trips.
- Tourist areas can be crowded, especially during peak seasons.
- Security concerns, like in many other areas of Colombia, though Zipaquirá is generally safe.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain affecting outdoor activities.
- Language barrier may be an issue for non-Spanish speakers.
Best Activities in Zipaquirá
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the impressive underground cathedral carved out of a salt mine, featuring stunning sculptures and light displays.
Experience an exhilarating zip lining adventure through the beautiful natural surroundings of Zipaquirá.
Enjoy breathtaking views while hiking the scenic trails of the nearby mountains and countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zipaquirá with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zipaquirá
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular restaurant and nightlife spot with stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes.
A famous underground cathedral that offers unique photo opportunities within the salt mines.
A picturesque lagoon known for its beautiful scenery and cultural significance.
A lookout point that provides panoramic views of Zipaquirá and the surrounding area.
Food in Zipaquirá
Zipaquirá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, corn on the cob, capers, avocado, and cream. It's a must-try, especially at La Puerta de la Catedral restaurant.
Must-Try!
A platter of assorted grilled meats such as chorizo, chicharrón, and morcilla accompanied by potatoes, arepas, and plantains. Head to La Esquina De La Rossi for an authentic fritanga experience.
A traditional Colombian platter consisting of red beans, rice, ground beef, chorizo, chicharrón, fried egg, plantain, avocado, and arepa. Savour this dish at La Diva Restaurante & Café.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zipaquirá better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Don't miss the empanadas, tamales, and jugo de lulo (lulo juice) available at various stalls.
This charming street is lined with food vendors offering an array of Colombian street food like arepas, buñuelos, and almojábanas. It's a great spot to sample authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zipaquirá, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversation or interactions.
It is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Use courteous and polite language when speaking to others.
Showing respect to elders is highly valued in Zipaquirá. Use formal titles when addressing older individuals and show deference in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zipaquirá with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zipaquirá
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zipaquirá, Colombia, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. A common practice is to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if the service was satisfactory.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Zipaquirá, but major credit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in tourist areas. It's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of any issues with card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zipaquirá.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Zipaquirá to enjoy outdoor activities like visiting the Salt Cathedral and exploring the surrounding areas. Expect warm weather and minimal rainfall.
Expect heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures. This season can still be a good time to visit, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. It's also the best time to see lush green landscapes and fewer tourists.
Zipaquirá at Night
Hiking in Zipaquirá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park located near Zipaquirá, featuring lush forests, diverse wildlife, and well-marked hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
This hiking spot offers scenic views and a variety of trails. It's a great location for hiking enthusiasts seeking a moderately challenging experience.
While primarily known for its salt cathedral, the surrounding area offers hiking trails and opportunities to explore the natural landscape.
A natural reserve offering stunning landscapes and paths for hiking, along with opportunities for bird-watching and photography.
A waterfall hike that provides a unique experience with beautiful scenery and the chance to enjoy the sound of rushing water along the trails.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zipaquirá through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zipaquirá by plane.
The main international airport serving Bogotá, Colombia, located approximately 50 km from Zipaquirá.
Located in Rionegro, this airport serves the Medellín area and is around 200 km from Zipaquirá.
Located near Palmira, serving the Cali area, this airport is approximately 500 km from Zipaquirá.
Located in Santa Marta, this international airport is about 900 km from Zipaquirá.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Zipaquirá, composed of a mix of indigenous and European ancestry.
A significant minority in Zipaquirá, primarily of Spanish descent and other European heritages.
Representing ancestral communities, including the Muisca people, with cultural significance in the region.
A smaller but notable group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Zipaquirá.
Includes smaller communities from various immigrant backgrounds and mixed ethnicities.
The Soul of Zipaquirá
Discover the essence of Zipaquirá through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Zipaquirá, with numerous local teams and a passionate fan base.
Cycling is widely enjoyed, especially given the mountainous terrain surrounding Zipaquirá, making it popular among both amateur and professional cyclists.
Basketball has a growing following, with many local courts and community leagues promoting the sport.
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport, played both indoors and on the beach, with many local tournaments.
Track and field events are organized by schools and local clubs, encouraging young athletes to participate in various competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zipaquirá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Colombian cuisine traditionally emphasizes meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Zipaquirá offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for eateries like Café Mandrake and Café de la Trinidad for delicious plant-based choices.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable meals in Zipaquirá. Restaurants such as Restaurante La Mina are willing to accommodate gluten-free requirements and provide various alternatives to cater to diverse dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Zipaquirá with these cultural adventures.
