Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip From Bogota

The Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip from Bogotá offers a unique chance to explore Colombia’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the stunning natural beauty of the sacred lake while learning about the Muisca tribe‘s fascinating history and their legendary gold rituals connected to the myth of El Dorado. Beyond the lagoon, the tour includes a visit to the Tominé Reservoir and a taste of local delicacies, promising an unforgettable adventure for those keen to uncover the country’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• Guided half-day tour from Bogotá to explore the historic Laguna de Guatavita, the legendary site associated with the myth of El Dorado.
• Includes round-trip transportation, admission fees, and an opportunity to learn about the indigenous Muisca tribe’s gold offering rituals.
• Visit to the nearby Tominé Reservoir and a stop in La Calera to enjoy local refreshments like cheese arepas.
• Tour duration is approximately 3 hours, with a maximum altitude of 3000 meters, and a small group size of up to 8 travelers.
• Requires a medium-high level of walking and sturdy hiking shoes due to the challenging terrain, not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Tour Overview

This half-day trip from Bogotá takes visitors to explore the sacred Laguna de Guatavita, a destination steeped in indigenous history and connected to the legendary El Dorado.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided exploration of the lake, and admission fees. Travelers will learn about the cultural significance of the lake and the rituals performed by the Muisca tribe involving gold offerings.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the Tominé Reservoir, Bogotá’s water source, and a stop in La Calera for local refreshments.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with morning pickup from your hotel in Bogotá, followed by a scenic drive to the Laguna de Guatavita.

Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide leads you on an exploration of the sacred lake’s features and history. Learn about the Muisca tribe’s rituals involving gold offerings to the lake, which inspired the legend of El Dorado.

A knowledgeable guide leads an exploration of the sacred Laguna de Guatavita, revealing the Muisca tribe’s gold offering rituals that inspired the legend of El Dorado.

After the lake, the tour visits the Tominé Reservoir, Bogotá’s main water source.

The final stop is in La Calera, where you’ll enjoy local cheese and yellow corn "arepas" before returning to Bogotá.

Important Details

The tour duration is 3 hours, with a maximum altitude of 3000 meters above sea level. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers.

This experience may not be suitable for everyone:

1. It isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a medium-high level of walking.

2. Hiking shoes are necessary, as the terrain can be challenging.

3. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

These important details ensure the tour is a good fit for your abilities and interests, providing a safe and enjoyable experience.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The price for the Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip starts from $154.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.

The Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip starts at $154.00 per person, with the exact cost depending on group size.

Viator Tours offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.

The tour also includes a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. This flexibility gives travelers peace of mind when planning their trip.

Whether you’re exploring the sacred lake’s history or taking in the scenic drive, the Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip provides an affordable and hassle-free way to experience this unique destination.

Reviews and Recommendations

Positive feedback from previous travelers highlights the knowledgeable guides and rich history that visitors can expect on the Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip.

The tour boasts a strong 4.7-star rating based on 3 reviews.

Some key reasons it’s recommended include:

1. Engaging guides who bring the legends and culture of the Muisca tribe to life.

2. An immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the sacred lake and its connection to the ‘El Dorado’ myth.

3. The opportunity to visit Tominé Reservoir and savor local delicacies like cheese arepas.

Getting to Laguna De Guatavita

Getting to Laguna De Guatavita begins with a scenic 1-hour drive from Bogotá. The route winds through the Andes, offering breathtaking mountain vistas.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the town of La Calera, known for its artisanal cheeses and arepas.

Upon arrival, you’ll follow a moderate hiking trail leading to the sacred lake. The trail is well-maintained, but sturdy hiking shoes are recommended due to uneven terrain.

Reaching the lake, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the deep, circular basin surrounded by lush vegetation. This serene setting was once the site of Muisca ritual offerings.

Exploring the Sacred Lake

As visitors approach the Laguna de Guatavita, they’re immediately struck by the serene, almost otherworldly beauty of the sacred lake.

The serene, almost otherworldly beauty of the sacred Laguna de Guatavita captivates visitors upon their approach.

The tour guide leads the group on a captivating exploration of the site, sharing stories about its rich history and cultural significance.

Notable highlights include:

1. Witnessing the unique, bowl-shaped geography of the lake, which was formed by a volcanic crater.

2. Learning about the Muisca people’s rituals, where gold offerings were thrown into the waters as part of their ceremonies.

3. Discovering the connection between the lake and the legendary "El Dorado," the mythical city of gold.

The Sum Up

The Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip from Bogotá offers an enriching experience that combines stunning natural beauty and deep cultural insights. Travelers can explore the sacred lake, learn about the Muisca tribe’s legendary gold rituals, and savor local delicacies, making it an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to discover Colombia’s heritage.