The Salt Cathedral: Where Faith Meets the Earth
Some places cannot be explained, they must be felt. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is one such place. At 180 meters underground, in what was once a salt mine, stands this structure that defies logic: a complete cathedral, with naves, crossing, and altars, carved directly into the salt. It's not just a tourist attraction; it's a journey into Colombia's depths, where spirituality and geology come together.
Getting There from Bogotá: The Path to the Depths
From Bogotá, Zipaquirá is just 50 kilometers away, but the journey transports you to another world. You have several options:
Public Transportation
From the Portal del Norte TransMilenio station, take a bus to Zipaquirá. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs around $10,000 COP (2026). From the Zipaquirá terminal, a taxi will take you to the Cathedral in 10 minutes for $8,000 COP.
Organized Tours
If you prefer comfort, tours from Bogotá include round-trip transportation, guided entry, and sometimes additional stops. Prices for 2026 range from $80,000 to $150,000 COP per person, depending on duration and included services. Companies like Bogotá Tours and Colombia Travel Experts offer options in Spanish and English.
Experience at the Cathedral: Descent into the Sacred
The visit begins with a descent through illuminated tunnels that reveal crosses, sculptures, and altars carved directly into the salt. The main route, the Miner's Route, takes you through the 14 Stations of the Cross to the imposing dome of the central nave.
2026 Hours and Prices
- Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (last entry at 4:00 p.m.)
- Annual closure: January 1st, Good Friday, and December 25th
- Admission prices: Adults: $60,000 COP | Children (4-12 years): $25,000 COP | Students with ID: $30,000 COP
- Guided tour: Included with admission, available in Spanish and English at specific times
What to Expect
The interior temperature is constant (14°C), with high humidity. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with well-lit but sloping paths. It is not suitable for people with severe mobility limitations. The acoustics in the central nave are awe-inspiring; sometimes there are sacred music concerts that resonate through the salt walls.
Zipaquirá Beyond the Cathedral: Flavors and Memories
Emerging into daylight in Zipaquirá means encountering a colonial town that holds secrets. The Main Square, with its above-ground cathedral and white buildings, invites you to sit at a café. The Salt Museum complements the visit with the region's mining history. And for gastronomy, don't leave without trying the sobrebarriga zipaquireña or a hot chocolate at Chocolatería San Alberto.
Practical Tips: Prepare Your Journey Underground
- Climate: In Zipaquirá the weather is cool (12-18°C). Bring a light jacket, even to enter the Cathedral.
- What to bring: Comfortable shoes with non-slip soles, a water bottle, and a camera (no flash).
- Best times: Visit on weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds. Sundays usually have more local visitors.
- Accessibility: Contact the Cathedral in advance if you need special assistance.
Book Your Experience
The Salt Cathedral is not just a place; it's an experience that stays with you. Book your Salt Cathedral tour with our recommended partners and secure your spot at this Colombian marvel. From Bogotá, the journey is short, but the impression lasts a lifetime.
Note: Prices and hours are for 2026, verified with the Salt Cathedral's official website. We recommend confirming before your visit.
