guatavita day trip

Guatavita Lake: A Legendary Day Trip from Bogota

• Post last modified: April 20, 2024
• Post author: Fede Supital Terrón
• Post published: February 24, 2021
• Post category: Guides / South America

Sharing is caring!

Guatavita Lake is a unique place, and a great day trip from Bogota . Many tourists come here each day to take a look at a lake that is not only beautiful, but also has a great history behind it.

From old rituals to greedy Europeans looking for gold, if this lake could talk it would keep you entertained for hours!

So here is everything you need to known about visiting Guatavita Lake. Let's dive right in!

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is Guatavita Lake?

Guatavita Lake is locatedin the Cordillera Oriental of the Colombian Andes in the municipality of Sesquilé in the province of Almeidas. It is 57 km (35 miles) northeast of the city of Bogotá , which is what makes it such a popular day trip.

Lake Guatavita is located a couple of hours north east of Bogota.

How to Get to Lake Guatavita from Bogota

Guatavita Lake can be a challenge for travelers, since it isn't exactly next to Bogota. Regardless of how you move around, you need to consider the time invested. The good thing is that there's a way for everyone to get here.

Renting a Car to Visit Guatavita Lake

We personally think that the absolute best way to get Lake Guatavita is by renting a car. We went by public transportation, and while it did save us money, it took a lot more time. Additionally, renting a car allows you to visit other attractions in the area, and the visit at your own pace.

If you rent a car, you'll need to find Autopista Norte and stay here for around one hour. Take the exit towards Sesquilé/ Gachancipa. After 15 minutes, turn left right after La Hornilla Paradero (a stop spot for big trucks). Then right away turn right. This path will lead you to the main entrance of the park.

Want to rent a car? Here is a site we use for our car rentals:

All Your Travels

In one book.

Transform your travel memories into a unique book, with personalized pages, country by country.

How to Get to Lake Guatavita from Bogota in Public Transportation

For those of you who don't feel comfortable driving, or are on a bit of a tighter budget, you can opt for taking public transportation. Let us tell you that this is not a hard trip. However, it is a long one (between 2 & 1/2 to 3 hours each way!). You need to first go to Portal Norte terminal . We were staying in La Candelaria so we hopped on the bus B74 , that takes you straight there. Once you get to Portal Norte, simply find a bus that goes to Guatavita . This bus isn't part of any networks like TransMilenio, so it may be a bit harder to find it than others. This second ride takes 1 & 1/2 hours.

Guatavita Town to Guatavita Lake

As you're getting close to your destination, you have two options. If you're visiting during the weekend, you can get dropped off in Guatavita town and catch a bus that goes to the lagoon. Guatavita as a town is very pretty, so you can take some time to walk around and enjoy the view of Embalse San Rafael, a lake that's just nearby it. On the other hand, if you're visiting during the week, those buses just don't run at all. In that case, ask the driver to drop you off at Puente Carros Sesquile , which is way before town. Here you'll find the entrance to the path that leads to Guatavita Lake. It's a 7 km road, so you may want to try to hitchhike if you don't want to walk for over one hour.

Want to book your transportation in advance?

Everything to Know When Visiting Bogota, Colombia

The best things to do in Bogota aren't necessarily the most expensive ones! Actually, we found out that Colombia's capital city has a lot to offer without having to invest a fortune in entrance tickets, buses or any other crazy expenses.In this guide we will be covering some of the

Taking a Tour to Guatavita Lake

If you don't want the hassle of going on your own, but also don't want the responsibility of driving, the final option is to take a tour from Bogota to Guatavita Lake. This is great because it also typically involves a combination with another activity in the area, many times which is the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral.

Here are a few great excursions you can take, that also include other activities in the area!

Stay Up To Date📫

We have a  non-spammy  weekly newsletter, where we give travel tips, and exclusive content and discounts .

Upon Entrance to Guatavita Lake

FINALLY! You've arrived to Guatavita Lake, yay! Except... you need to go on a walking tour to get there. They run every half hour and last around 1 & 1/2 hours.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

If you want to visit this place just to see the lagoon, unfortunately you can't do that. Since there's an altitude change (from 2.900 to 3.100 meters over the sea level), they only allow people to walk through the path with a tour guide. Spoiler alert, you won't see the lagoon until the tour is one hour in.

Food & Beverage at Guatavita Lake

Unfortunately, food isn't allowed inside the park, so the only food you can get here is before or after the tour. At the entrance you will find one small place that sells basic stuff like empanadas or arepas (all fried food).

Our strongest recommendation is to eat something before going in. Your options will be very limited if you rely on the place, and they aren't the healthiest either.

Travel Planning Services

Travel More . Spend Less .

Let us help you plan your dream trip.

The Tour of Guatavita Lake

Double check at the reception for tours in English if you don't speak Spanish. They usually only offer them in Spanish, due to the fact that most visitors are locals. However, you may get lucky to have a guide who does speak English for certain tours. 

Transform your photos

One click is all it takes  to make your photos look stunning. Get our latest package of Lightroom presets, Into The Wild .

The tour consists of a mix of history and culture. You will walk along a path while being told about the flora and fauna of the place. At the same time, you will pass by some iconic spots where the tour guide will explain you the history behind them. Also they will tell about the ceremonies that were performed back in the day, before the Spanish invaded.

The Viewpoints of Guatavita Lake

After one hour of walking, stopping and hiking, you will arrive to the first viewpoint (there are three of them). Here's where you will be able to appreciate the lagoon for the first time. Heights and general views don't change much from one viewpoint to the other, but the path leads you through all of them so don't worry about going on a detour.

After the final explanation, you will be free to walk around, take pictures with Guatavita Lake in the background or just rest from the hike. The path will lead you into an area where you can get souvenirs and food.

Something that we really didn't like is that the path finishes very far from the beginning, forcing you to choose between walking one hour back to the main entrance or having to pay 2.500 cop ($0.60 USD) per person for a van to take you. It seems like the whole thing is planned like this so they can charge everybody.

Whatever option you choose, you will need to go back to the main entrance to drive back your car, hitchhike or just walk your way into the main road.

How To Travel Cheaper and Better in 15 minutes!

How much more would you travel, if it costed you less resources?

With our Free eBook, you will learn how to save money and time on your future trips . Plus, you'll see the exact system we use.

Grab your copy for free when you sign up for our newsletter 👇

To go back to Bogota, there's no shortcut. You will literally have to retrace your steps. Walk (or hitchhike) to get back on the main road. Then hop on any of the buses that go back to Bogota (they will drop you off at Portal Norte), and from here take a bus back to your accommodation.

Summing Up Guatavita Lake

Here is a quick sum up of the experience of visiting Guatavita Lake.

What to Bring to Guatavita Lake

• Reusable Water Bottle  (we use  this water bottle from Cafago  because it holds the temperature)
• Comfortable shoes  (you don't need anything crazy- the walk isn't intense)
• Zippered Bag or Backpack - take a look at these  backpacks for travelers!
• Power Bank (we use  Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)

Looking To Travel Somewhere?

Off The Beaten Trips  is our travel agency.

But this isn't anything like you've ever experienced before. You'll have an epic trip without having to break the piggy bank.

Unique locations. Epic adventures. Lifetime  memories.

Is Guatavita Lake Worth Visiting?

• If you're traveling for not so long, maybe you should reconsider doing this excursion. Even though the place is beautiful, it does take the whole day so you need to plan if it's worth investing so much time in just one activity.
• If you're traveling with more people, renting a car is definitely the recommended option. Not only you will save a lot of time, but also money! Public transportation fees add up quickly.

The Tour and Activities Around it

• You can't walk to the lake by yourself. You have to take a 2 hour tour with a tour guide. This is due to the fact that there's an altitude change so you have to be in company of someone from the park.
• Guatavita town is a very nice stop. Regardless of how you decide to move around, we recommend you to stop here to enjoy the views of Embalse San Rafael.
• Another great attraction in the area is the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, which can be combined if you rent a car or do a tour.
• If you want to stay up to date with entrance prices and general info, you can also visit the official website of Guatavita lake.

Will You Buy Us A Coffee? ☕

As coffee lovers, we always enjoy the energy of caffeine. It helps us get the best free travel guides out there for you! 😄

Travel Planning Tools

Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!

We really enjoyed the view of Guatavita Lake, but one thing that we noticed is that the amount of time invested in getting there by public transportation isn't worth the visit. So unless you're spending a lot of time in Bogota, or driving a car, we believe Guatavita Lake is a stop you can skip.

However, if you do have a car or have a lot of time in Bogota, then Guatavita Lake is a pretty cool spot to check out for a few hours, and can also be combined with a visit to the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral.

Planning a trip to Colombia? Then make sure to check out all our Colombia travel guides about this beautiful coffee-famous country. Need help planning your trip? Let us help! With our new travel planning services we can help you explore more and spend less. Want to learn how? Take a look at our travel planning services ,

You'll also love these other articles:

March 3, 2021

Visiting Tequendama Falls, Bogota’s Closest Waterfall

Tequendama Falls is a great spot to visit

March 31, 2021

Taking Taxis in Colombia: What They Don’t Want You to Know

Getting around a new country can be overwhelming.

June 3, 2021

20 Things to Add to Your Colombia Bucket List

Welcome to a country full of color and

February 24, 2021

Guatavita Lake is a unique place, and a

May 7, 2021

Piedra del Peñol: All You Need to Know About Visiting

Piedra del Peñol is the number one reason

April 21, 2021

Swimming in the Mud Crater of Volcano El Totumo

Have you ever wanted to get up close

Like this article? Please share it with your family and friends, so that we can continue to keep creating free travel guides for you! It takes just a second, and would mean the world to us. Thanks for being here!

You Might Also Like

Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands: The Best Beaches in Spain

The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Lake Guatavita, Colombia – Guide to Visiting the Laguna de Guatavita near Bogotá

The laguna de guatavita or lake guatavita is located not far from bogotá. once a sacred site for the indigenous peoples, gold discovered there helped launch the legend of el dorado. the lake today is gorgeous and a neat day trip from bogotá, especially for those who want a break from the big city to enjoy some nature. read on to learn how to visit lake guatavita and what to see in the legendary laguna de guatavita..

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I am a member of Amazon Associates, LLC and other affiliate programs and earn from qualifying purchases made after clicking those links. There is never any additional cost to you. To learn more please consult our Disclosure Policy.

Introduction – Why Visit Lake Guatavita

If you have ever been to Bogotá, you know that it is a huge, sprawling city, a tad grungy, and has horrible traffic. Actually, I think Bogotá sometimes gets a bit of a bad rep as there is a fair amount of green space and some vibrant culture in the city. However, the largeness and loudness of it all can still get a bit oppressive sometimes.

If you’d like to get outside the city a bit and do a half to full day trip that includes some hiking and a pretty natural area where you can also learn a bit of history, a visit to Guatavita and the nearby lake is a great choice.

Susana and I finally recently made it here as it had been one of the things to do in Bogotá we hadn’t had a chance to see yet. We thought it was lovely. Here I’ll share a bit about the history behind the lake, what to see at Lake Guatavita, how to get there, and what else to see in the town itself so you can plan your own visit to the Laguna de Guatavita.

Want to take the hassle out of planning your Colombia trip? Let the experts at our partner BnB Colombia Tours help you! Fill out this form and they will get back to you with a free, personalized itinerary based on your interests, no strings attached.

Recent times have shown how important it is to have travel health insurance . World Nomads is a leader in traveler’s health insurance. Get a quote here . Mask mandates also remain in effect on airplanes and most public places in Colombia. Pick up some medical grade masks or some KN95s for extra protection.

Where is the Laguna de Guatavita?

The Guatavita Lagoon is located in the foothills of the Cordillera Oriental of the Andes, not far from the towns of Guatavita and Sesquille, north east of Bogotá. The lake, surrounded on all sides by the mountain was thought to be a crater, but most theories now believe it is a sink hole resulting from the dissolution of salt deposits below it sometime in the distant past.

What’s the History Behind it?

The lake was a sacred site for the Muisca indigenous peoples that inhabited this area of present day Colombia. According to legend, whenever there was a new Zipa or leader of the Muisca, an elaborate ritual was performed here.

The Zipa would be adorned in gold dust and head out on the lake in an elaborate raft. Once in the center, he and the other chiefs, as well as spectators around the lake would throw gold into the lake as an offering to the gods. There is a famous gold raft on display at the Bogotá Gold Museum that alludes to this legend.

Hearing of this legend fueled the Spanish colonizers belief in an El Dorado, and there were numerous attempts to drain the lake and recover the gold. Some attempts did partially drain it and there were some gold pieces found but never to the extent the legend would seem to suggest.

What to See at the Laguna de Guatavita

Well the lake, of course!

Ok, all obviousness aside, the lake is part of a reserved area. When arriving, you’ll be assigned a guide, who will tell you about the history as well as point out some of the significant trees and plants that grow nearby.

You’ll make a brief stop at a replica indigenous meeting house where the guide will tell you a bit about the history and culture of the Muisca people before heading up the path up the mountain. The hike isn’t too tough but you might notice the altitude making your breath a bit harder.

The path is mostly made up of rocks, so it shouldn’t get too muddy, but you’ll definitely want a comfortable pair of walking shoes or hiking boots . Having a good jacket is also good as it can get chilly if the sun isn’t out or it’s breezy.

Once you get to the top, you can take in the gorgeous view of the lake. If it is a sunny day, it should have a glowing turquoise color. It’s really pretty! Ditto for the surrounding hills.

Our guide left us here to walk along the path around the lake on our own before heading down. At the end of the path there is a little place where you can get a drink or snack if you want. All in all, I would say the hike takes between 1 and 2 hours depending on pace and how long you stay at the top.

A quick tip: single use plastics have been prohibited in Colombian natural areas. The guide let me carry a plastic bottle of water in my bag but asked me not to drink from it. It’s best to take along a refillable bottle if you have one.

How to Get to the Lake Guatavita?

You have a few options for getting here. I’m going to assume you are coming from Bogotá, the closest big city.

Option 1: Book a Tour

It’s possible to book a private tour to the lake, or if you want to combine another popular attraction near Bogotá, this tour that goes to Guatavita and the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is a great option (you can also do this as a private tour ).

Option 2: Go on Your Own

You do not need to go in a tour to visit the Laguna de Guatavita. It is fairly easily reached by combination of a few buses. There a few options here.

The easiest is to get a bus to Guatavita from the Portal del Norte bus terminal (this can be reached easily on the Transmilenio bus system). The bus will pass first through Sesquille, where you can get off and then get a taxi to the park and trail head if you like.

Or, you can head to the town of Guatavita itself, which is what we did and what I’d recommend. There, from the area known as Parqueadero Principal, just across from the Plaza de Toros, you can hire roundtrip transportation to and from the park. They leave when full around 11 and 1 most days. If you like you can contact Nelson, who took us via Whatsapp at (+57) 311 279-6317 to double check availability and price. It cost us $20,000 pesos roundtrip in November 2021.

It’s also possible to get off the bus about halfway between Sesquille and Guatavita where the turn off for the lake is and then walk. I wouldn’t recommend that is it’s quite a long walk, and the end of the trail is not at the start, which makes the transportation from Guatavita all the more convenient since they pick you up at the end.

To get back to Bogotá, you can get the bus at the parqueadero.

Anything Else to See in Guatavita?

Actually, there is. It’s a pretty little town. While maybe not quite as impressive as larger and more famous towns like Villa de Leyva and Barichara , we thought it was charming to walk around and there are a few more sites to see around town.

We had lunch at Origenes located on a pretty little plaza behind the main plaza. There are several good looking restaurants around this area, and the plaza, church, and monuments nearby are pretty.

Across the way you can see the former Plaza de Toros , which is kind of a neat building and houses an artisan museum today. You can also see the Puente de los Enamorados (Lover’s Bridge) and the Pozo de la Dicha (a small well). Finally, you can walk down to the Embalse Tominé (a reservoir).

It looks like its also possible to do little boat rides out on the reservoir nearby and there are some eco-cabins outside of town if you wanted to spend the night. All in all, I’d definitely recommend stopping for lunch and strolling town before heading out if you come on your own.

Guatavita Lake Conclusion

There you have it, a complete guide to the Laguna Guatavita. It’s a nice escape from the big city of Bogotá and I highly recommend a visit to get some fresh air and see this really pretty and neat looking place. If you want to to, I hope this guide helped you plan your visit and even more importantly, that you enjoy it. If you did go, I’d love to hear what you liked the most in the comments below!

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

Did you like this post?

Check out these others you might like: Fun Things to Do in Bogotá How to Spend 1 Day in Bogotá Guide to Monserrate Guide to the Bogotá Botero Museum Travel Guide to Villa de Leyva

Planning a trip to Cartagena too?

Be sure to check out these top resources to help you plan: Best Areas to Stay Best Things to Do Packing List

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Bogotá

Village and Lake Guatavita Tour + Optional Lunch

Private Tour

Español, Inglés

Have you heard about El Dorado? Without a guided tour of Lake Guatavita, you might miss out on some of the history and legends that make the area so much more than a beautiful destination. You may finish the day wanting to increase your connection with nature, if that’s the case we invite you to check the best natural parks near Bogotá for hiking and birdwatching!

H2 – What should I expect on this village and Lake Guatavita day trip?

Leave the city for a while and join us and our expert guide on this day trip to explore New Guatavita town and learn why the old town was flooded and rebuilt in this beautiful hike to Enjoy fresh, natural and stunning landscapes.

We believe there is nothing more fascinating than diving into ancient stories, myths and legends that tell the origin of a place. If you agree with us, come to one of the richest sites in terms of ancestral history near Bogotá: Guatavita.

In this journey you will not find the city of legend, but a place rich with colonial history and indigenous mythologies. We are unsure it ever existed, but stories are meant to be told and we want to share this one with you!

2 hrs Drive to Guatavita and Tominé reservoir

In this trip, the day begins when the guide picks you up in the hotel. He and the driver will take you across the city heading north to New Guatavita town. After a two-hour drive from busy Bogota, you will get to the first stop in the town. Here, with the views of Tominé reservoir you will hear the story of how come there is a town submerged beneath and why it was flooded.

1.5 hrs Discover the mystic Guatavita lagoon

Venture afterwards to the mystic Lake Guatavita. To discover what this unique ecosystem has to offer there is a short hike to the lake you will have to accomplish. On the shores of the lake, you will hear the old indigenous traditions that gave this lake its renown and the possible reasons behind the wonderous legend. You’ll find a place rich with colonial history and indigenous mythologies.

1.5 hrs Enjoy a traditional lunch and visit the town

Once the guided tour at the lake finishes, you will be able to choose enjoying a traditional lunch with a wonderful view of the neighboring water reservoir before visiting the town’s artisanal market.

2 hrs Drive back to Bogota and drop-off

Finally take in one last look and we’ll be on our way back to Bogotá. You will call it day when the driver and the guide drop you off in your hotel again.

• A full day trip away from the city rush
• Enjoying the wonderful view of the Lake Guatavita
• Retelling of local legends and ancestral myths such as El Dorado
• Discovering the town of New Guatavita

Included/Excluded

• Gran Colombia Tours private guide
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in private transportation
• Entry to Lake Guatavita
• Lunch (if chosen)
• All-risk insurance
• Extra purchases

Know before you book

• Keep in mind this tour includes a 1-hour hike
• Keep in mind this tour does not offer vegan options
• Lake Guatavita is closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a holiday, on those cases, the Lake is closed on Tuesday

Frequently asked questions

How is the weather on lake guatavita.

The maximum temperature in the village of Guatavita is 14°C (57°F). We recommend you wear comfortable clothes, shoes for walking, and a warm jacket as the lake itself is colder.

When is Lake Guatavita closed?

Lake Guatavita is closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a holiday. On those cases, the Lake is closed on Tuesday.

Can anyone do the Lake Guatavita tour?

Keep in mind this tour requires a moderate physical fitness level. The activity requires climbing 150 steps up. Please tell the guide if there is any health condition our team should know of.

How long is the hike to Lake Guatavita?

The hike to Lake Guatavita is 1 hour long.

What will I visit on a Lake Guatavita tour?

You will visit the New Town of Guatavita, the Tominé reservovir and the Lake Guatavita.

Tour's Location

Village and lake guatavita tour + optional lunch "}}' data-lng="" data-icon="https://modtour.travelerwp.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/tour.png" data-zoom="1" data-disablecontrol="true" data-showcustomcontrol="true" data-style="normal"> please enable javascript in your browser to book owner.

Member Since 2023

Explore other options

Santa Marta Beaches Private Boat Tour

Make your trip unforgettable with an exclusive experience of sailing to the paradisiac beaches in Santa Marta

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá & Villa de Leyva 2-Day Tour

Give yourself two days to enjoy the best combination of history and nature in the outskirts of Bogotá.

Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: El Dorado Airport

Whether arriving or leaving, Gran Colombia Tours offers an amazing transfer service from or to your lodgings: safe and hassle-free.

Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour

If you are into mountain sceneries, trust us, this is one of the bests. Palm trees and great landscapes are waiting for you.

Cali to or from Coffee Region Private Transfer

Travel safe and comfortable. Get ready for a new adventure and let us take you to or from Cali and to or from Pereira, Armenia, Salento or Filandia

An Essential Colombian Tour to Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena 8 Days

Time will ever be enough, but this trip is made for you to cover Colombia’s must-go destinations and experiences.

or continue with

Select User Type

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

• July 15, 2023 in Life in Bogotá: How to Bogotá and Me in 2023
• October 18, 2019 in Rest of Colombia: Things to do in Cali: my trip to Colombia’s salsa capital
• August 8, 2019 in Nature: Choachi: an undiscovered trail for hiking near Bogota
• July 24, 2019 in Around Bogotá: Horse riding near Bogota: an adventure in La Calera
• July 11, 2019 in Life in Bogotá: Updates to How to Bogotá (and a chance to buy me a digital cup of coffee :))
• July 9, 2019 in Miscellaneous: Magic in Colombia: From Gabriel Garcia Marquez to Ghost Stories
• July 16, 2018 in Nature: Close encounters with hummingbirds at the Observatorio de Colibries
• July 10, 2018 in Life in Bogotá: Bogota’s La Macarena neighborhood
• May 22, 2018 in Neighborhoods: Quinta Camacho neighborhood
• May 15, 2018 in Entertainment: Things to do in Bogotá when it’s raining
• April 16, 2018 in Life in Bogotá: Bogotanos: Humans of Bogotá
• April 3, 2018 in Health: The essential things you need to know about healthcare in Colombia
• March 1, 2018 in Musings and Commentaries: Solo female travel in Latin America: my experiences and why you should go for it!
• February 9, 2018 in Work and Money: Volunteering in Bogotá
• January 31, 2018 in Getting started: Beat culture shock: 10 things to do after moving to Bogota
• January 18, 2018 in Rest of Colombia: A weekend in Villa de Leyva
• January 12, 2018 in Money: Colombia currency: the Colombian peso
• January 11, 2018 in Transport: Uber in Bogota: the big debate!
• January 8, 2018 in Around Bogotá: Visiting Chingaza National Park in Colombia
• December 9, 2017 in Food: Where to drink specialty coffee in Bogota
• December 9, 2017 in Art: Bogota’s Museum of Contemporary Art
• December 1, 2017 in Food: Vegetarian restaurants in Bogota
• August 14, 2017 in Tours and Trips: The best Colombian coffee farm tour near Bogota
• July 17, 2017 in Musings and Commentaries: Learning to love my moustache in Bogotá
• April 20, 2017 in Communication: Useful contacts if you’re moving to Colombia
• February 13, 2017 in Food: 23 great places to eat in Bogota
• February 9, 2017 in Life in Bogotá: What to wear in Bogota
• July 23, 2016 in Secret Bogota: 8 great markets in Bogotá – and where to find the best prices!
• November 3, 2015 in Life in Bogotá: 10 Bogotá anecdotes which made me Bogo-smart!
• October 18, 2015 in Blogging: Colombia Blogs
• June 1, 2015 in Communication: Learn Spanish in Bogotá
• December 2, 2014 in Getting started: Salaries, Tax and Working in Bogota
• December 1, 2014 in Getting started: 10 tips for taking a taxi in Bogota
• November 17, 2014 in Accommodation: Cost of Living in Bogota
• May 4, 2014 in Getting started: Teaching English in Bogota
• March 4, 2014 in Accommodation: Bogota neighborhoods: where to live in Bogota [Updated 2023]
• January 30, 2014 in Accommodation: How to find a place to live: Bogota apartments

A day trip to Guatavita

Posted on December 16, 2015 by HowtoBogota in Around Bogotá , Nature , Rest of Colombia , Tours and Trips // 4 Comments

This last festivo  (public holiday) I wanted to visit the Guatavita lagoon, which is about a 1.5 – 2.5 hour drive outside of Bogotá (depending on traffic and exactly where you live in the city). Guatavita is one of a number of places just outside of Bogotá which is worth visiting, along with La Calera, Sopó, Zipaquira and its Salt Cathedral, the Nemocón salt mine and Chingaza National Park, among others.

Guatavita lagoon

About Guatavita Lagoon

The Guatavita Lagoon is a former sacred site of the Muisca  indigenous tribe, who inhabited the central highlands of what is now Colombia. At Laguna Guatavita , the Muisca Cacique  (the leader of the tribe) would cover himself in gold dust, sail out into the laguna and rinse himself off, while fine handmade goldwork was thrown into the lagoon as an offering for Chie , the goddess of water.

This led to the birth of the legend of El Dorado, which means “the golden one” in Spanish and refers to the gold covered cacique . Several efforts were made by the Spanish conquistadores to drain the lagoon to reveal the gold treasures submerged therein, and some of the golden offerings are now on display in Bogotá’s Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) in the city center.

Is Guatavita just a lake?

The ascent to the lagoon involves climbing 150 steps and a bit of a walk, which takes about half an hour if you’re doing it alone without rest breaks, or longer if you’re with a tour. On the way there are stunning views of Cundinamarca’s countryside (which remind me a bit of Switzerland in parts), beautiful flora including the infamous frailejones , which grow at high altitude in páramo ecosystems, toadstools, ferns, and all kinds of flowers that I don’t know the names of! Here are a few photos I took to tempt you!

A view of Cundinamarca

Beautiful vegetation at the edge of the lagoon

A wild toadstool

How to get to Guatavita

Option 1 – north via autopista (by car).

If you’re driving there are a couple of options for getting to Guatavita, mainly depending on which part of the city you’re living in.

You can drive north out of the city via the Autopista, and then take highway 55 (towards Tunja). Eventually you will see signs for Guatavita, but if you’re on highway 55, you’ll need to double back at some point because the exit to Guatavita is on the side of the road which goes south (where it says La Playa on the map below).

Once you exit the highway at La Playa, you will continue down the Guatavita-Sesquilé route, and soon notice a large reservoir to your right (the Embalse Tomine ), which is not Guatavita! Once you see a sign on your left which says Via Laguna de Guatavita , take that turning and follow the road up until you get to a car park. Beware that about 3km of this road is unpaved and rocky, so you will need to drive really carefully, and if you’re prone to travel sickness, I would make sure you’ve taken a pill in good time before you reach this part!

When you reach the car park you’ll walk up the hill to the entrance to the reserve, pay for your tickets, and choose whether you want to join one of the guided tours.

Option 2 – v ia La Calera

The other option for driving to Guatavita (which we didn’t take) is via La Calera. From Carrera 7 at around Calle 84, drive up to Carrera 5 and bear right, taking the Transversal 5 which eventually becomes the Bogotá-La Calera route. There will be lovely views and photo opportunities from La Calera, as well as plenty of restaurants along the way so you might want to make a couple of stops.

That same road will eventually become the Bogotá-Guatavita road and you follow it through the town of La Calera and beyond until you reach route 50, then drive on and follow the signs to Guatavita. Bear in mind that from this direction you will drive through the small town of Guatavita, which is actually some way away from the Guatavita lagoon and the reserve. You’ll need to carry on driving some way till you get to the turning on the right leading to Via Laguna de Guatavita.

Where to eat in Guatavita

There is a restaurant on the Via Laguna de Guatavita , on the way up to the lagoon, so that would be one option. At the park entrance there is a small… let’s call it a ‘kiosk’… selling soft drinks, peanuts, biscuits etc. However, the rules are that you’re not allowed to bring food into the park. In practice, I bought some peanuts, kept them in my pocket and nobody checked, so as long as you keep your food hidden, you’re fine. The rules, I guess, are intended to minimise the amount of rubbish that people would otherwise leave on the trail. I actually recommend bringing a sugary drink and snacks up with you because the altitude can make you light-headed and breathless, and I find that sipping a coke and eating crisps or nuts along the way helps with this (just keep them hidden!).

Once you’ve finished the tour, you head down the other side of the lagoon and there are buses (which you have to pay for) which will take you back down to the car park. There a small place to eat and a couple of kiosks near where the buses wait.

My recommendation on where to go for a meal, however, would be to drive down to the lovely little town of Guatavita. Have a wander and look at the souvenirs on offer while looking for somewhere to eat there. The town is really cute and definitely worth a visit. The original town was flooded to make way for the reservoir, and thus the new town was built all in one go. It looks exceptionally well-planned in comparison to other towns/cities in the region.

Guatavita town

How to get to Guatavita without a car

At weekends, take a bus from the Portal Norte and change in Sesquilé to get to the town of Guatavita, or take a bus from calle 72 with carrera 9 to La Calera and take a bus to Guatavita town from there. If you want to visit the lagoon, you can take a taxi or a  colectivo bus from Guatavita town.

However, it would be much easier to book a tour to Guatavita from Bogotá in order to be able to travel there direct and have an English-speaking guide!

Is Guatavita worth the time and effort to get there?

I do think that Guatavita is worth a visit, but possibly only if you’re living in Bogotá or are planning to stay here for a longer period of time. This is because it does take time to get there and there will be so many other places you might want to visit just outside of Bogotá – Zipaquirá and the Salt Cathedral; Chingaza National Park; the Coffee Farm at Tibacuy – that you may not have time for everything. You might therefore prefer to keep Guatavita as a back-up option if you’re only in Bogotá for a short trip.

If you combine a trip to Guatavita lagoon with a trip to the town and/or to Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, or the Nemocón Salt Mine then it’s definitely worth going; it’s so pretty and the history really is interesting.

4 Comments on A day trip to Guatavita

needing safe transpotation and tourist guide in Bogota? call FELIPE he speaks English and is honest!!!

HIS NUMBER: (57+1) 310 2935682

I just wrote a little guide on visiting the Laguna. I should have thought to have checked if anyone else wrote on it also. I found your post here and would like to share my post, maybe someone can get something from mine too. http://stuartoswald.com/2016/11/visiting-laguna-de-guatavita-the-legend-of-eldorado.html . Love the site. Keep the great posts coming.

Thanks Stuart! 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes

Guatavita, the lake that inspired the legend of El Dorado

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

Guatavita is the name used to describe both the lake at the centre of the legend of El Dorado (seen the film?) and the small, peaceful town that sits nearby, on the edge of the Tominé Reservoir (which some people mistake for Lake Guatavita when they first get off the bus!).

Lake Guatavita started a gold rush when the Spanish discovered that the indigenous people there used to throw large amounts of gold into the water as an offering to the gods. The Spanish even dug away at the sides of the mountain to drain the lake at one point, but little gold was ever found ( Colonialism 0 – Pachamama 1 ).

How to pronounce Guatavita: gwah-tah-BEE-tah

Guatavita is a lovely day trip from Bogotá , so make sure you save some time during your visit to the capital to get out and explore the surrounding countryside.

Unfortunately, the first time we tried to go to Lake Guatavita, we maxed out on the Bogotá day trips and tried to do it in the same day as visiting Monserrate and the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá , so when we arrived with our driver at the entrance to the national park at just after 4pm, we were told it was already closed to entry.

If doing the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá AND Guatavita, visit the lake first, and don’t try to cram Monserrate into the same morning. Also, try to avoid a Sunday as this is the day that everything tends to be rammo.

After reading this guide to how to get to Lake Guatavita, you’ll also be interested in:

• All you need to know about Bogotá, Colombia
• 16 tips to keep safe in Bogotá
• Best day trips and weekend breaks from Bogotá (yes, Lake Guatavita is one of them!)

However, fear not! We were determined to see one of the most popular Bogotá day trips through, and so returned to Lake Guatavita 9 months later to conquer that pesky hike in broad daylight. This guide is going to take you through all the info we gathered about getting to Guatavita from Bogotá, how to see Lake Guatavita, where to stay and other things to do around Guatavita.

How to get to Guatavita from Bogotá

Although we had a driver the first time, and there are private or group tours available to take away the hassle, the second time we visited we decided to go independently with the bus to Guatavita from the Portal Norte in Bogotá (it also goes past Terminal Norte and picks people up on the street from outside there, but doesn’t actually go into the terminal officially). This bus costs 8000 pesos (£2) each way and takes 1.5 to 2 hours – annoyingly, though Guatavita isn’t too far from Bogotá, this bus route goes all the way round the reservoir before terminating at Guatavita town.

Alternatively, you can first get to the town of Guasca from the bus stop at Calle 72 Carrera 13 in Bogotá, and then catch one of the frequent local buses to Guatavita from there. This will take less time as it goes the other way round the reservoir, but you might not be able to rely on signage helping you get on the right bus since it doesn’t leave from a terminal.

Visiting Lake Guatavita

The main attraction of Guatavita is of course the lake. You can hike around Lake Guatavita, which has beautiful turquoise water on a sunny day. Unfortunately you cannot swim in the lake, due to dangerously cold temperatures and poor access down the sides of the mountains. Also, ya know, it’s kinda sacred.

The best time to go to Lake Guatavita is around midday with clear skies for the best chance of that turquoise blue you see on Google Images. We got a little unlucky on the colour front, but it was still incredible.

The lake is 7km from the town, so if you don’t have your own car you’ll need to get one of the buses that you can buy tickets for just opposite Plaza de Toros in town. These buses leave more or less every half hour. A return ticket will cost 14,000 COP (£3.50), and when you arrive at the entrance to the park the entry fee + official tour guide is 17,000 COP (£4.25). It’s a 90-minute tour.

This tour takes you on a guided hike around the lake, which isn’t particularly hard, but you may struggle if you have particularly bad knees. We only saw Spanish options for this official tour, but if you’re a Spanish-speaker it’s really interesting and in-depth! You can of course book private or group tours from other agencies , which can guarantee an English-speaker and include the transport to and from Bogotá.

Lots of the experience of visiting Lake Guatavita is around learning about the people who lived in these lands before the Spanish came to pillage. A typical Lake Guatavita tour will not only lead you on the path up and over the mountain, but will also take you into a mock house used to demonstrate how the indigenous Muísca people lived when the Spanish conquistadores arrived.

We sat down inside the house to learn all about their legends and coming of age rites, including how the new chief spent a considerable period of time on his own in a cave before having to come back to the village and resist the charms of the 5 most beautiful girls (who danced naked for him all night long) to prove he deserved to be chief.

If he passed the test, he would be covered in gold dust and pushed out on a raft for a swim in the sacred lake, with a barrage of gold and emeralds being sent out shortly after.

We then heard all about how the lake came to be, how and where the Spanish attempted to retrieve the treasures, and about the surrounding nature (there’s plenty!).

Note that the official Lake Guatavita tour ends at a different place to where it begins, so if you drove yourself to the lake in a private car you’ll have to pay 1500 pesos for the public bus that takes you back to the car park. You’re not allowed to walk back along the trail the way you came. The good news is that there is the chance to buy snacks and beers from one of the stalls at the end of the trail, though.

Other things to do in Guatavita town

The town is pretty small, with not much more than a little museum and some souvenir shops, but a lovely place to chill out before or after your hike (which to be honest is fairly painless).

It’s not a very old town, since the original Guatavita was swallowed when the man-made Reservoir Tominé came to be in 1967, but it still has a certain charm.

There’s definitely a lovely afternoon to be whiled away checking out the beautiful waterfront of the reservoir and having an amazingly rich hot chocolate with a cheesy almojábana bun in one of the many coffee shops in Guatavita town. It’s also a great place to try the Colombian delicacy of dipping cheese into hot chocolate, which is surprisingly good.

At the centre of town, near where you buy tickets for the bus to Lake Guatavita tours, there is a bullring called Plaza de Toros. Rather than bull-fighting, it’s mostly just used for artisans to sell souvenirs, but it’s of colonial-style architectural interest, nonetheless.

Can you stay at Lake Guatavita?

You cannot stay at Lake Guatavita itself; there’s nothing at all around that, but you can stay in the town of Guatavita and the surrounding countryside.

While there are some cheap guesthouse options such as Hospedaje de Guatavita , we highly recommend taking this opportunity to do some glamping in the mountainside domes and teepees of Bajo el Cielo . It’s a wonderful place to see the stars away from any light pollution on a clear night, and catch views of the misty valley as dawn approaches.

There are actually a large number of small house, cabaña and glamping options to stay in around Guatavita. Make the most of this beautiful Cundinamarca countryside!

If you’re looking for other ideas for Bogotá day trips, be sure to check out our Bogotá Breaks section or our list of the best Bogotá day-trips and weekend breaks from Bogotá .

Now you’ve read this guide to how to get to Lake Guatavita, you’ll also be interested in:

• Bogotá Eats: The best spots to breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner

Liked this post on Lake Guatavita, one of the most loved Bogotá day trips?

Give it a cheeky pin on Pinterest to be able to find again later!

Last Updated on 26 October 2022 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

Read these posts next!

Colombia to Panama: How to book a San Blas Islands boat tour

9 things to know before you travel to Colombia

Cali, Colombia: The home of Salsa dancing

Leave a comment :) cancel reply.

Plan Your Backpacking Adventure

Nestled within the Colombian Andes, Lake Guatavita beckons travelers with its serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry. As a destination of historical significance, this pristine lake has not only captivated the hearts of explorers but is also steeped in intriguing legends, notably the famed El Dorado myth.

Embarking on a day trip to Lake Guatavita promises a unique blend of tranquility and exploration. This guide will walk you through the essential elements of planning the ultimate day trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in the legends, partake in captivating activities, and witness the breathtaking landscapes that surround this mystical water body.

Join us as we unveil the allure of Lake Guatavita and discover why it’s not just a destination but an immersive experience waiting to unfold.

Table of Contents

Planning Your Day Trip To Lake Guatavita

A successful day trip to Lake Guatavita requires thoughtful planning to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.  Your trip is about a 1.5 – 2.5 hour drive outside of Bogotá (depending on traffic and exactly where you live in the city).

Guatavita is one of a number of places just outside of Bogotá which is worth visiting, along with La Calera, Sopó, Zipaquira and its Salt Cathedral.

Here are key considerations to make your journey a memorable one:

Transportation Options:

Timing and weather:, entry requirements and fees:, guided tours and local insights:, refreshments and snacks:.

By carefully planning each aspect of your day trip, you set the stage for an immersive and stress-free experience at Lake Guatavita.

The Legends Surrounding the Lake

Lake Guatavita is not merely a body of water; it’s a reservoir of myths and legends that have echoed through the ages. One of the most renowned tales is that of El Dorado, the mythical city of gold. According to legend, indigenous Muisca leaders conducted elaborate ceremonies on the lake, involving offerings of gold and precious objects.

At Laguna Guatavita, the Muisca Cacique, the leader of the tribe, would adorn himself with gold dust, sail out onto the lagoon, and cleanse himself. Meanwhile, exquisitely crafted gold artifacts were ceremoniously cast into the waters as an offering to Chie, the goddess of water.

Several efforts were made by the Spanish  conquistadores  to drain the lagoon to reveal the gold treasures submerged therein, and some of the golden offerings are now on display in Bogotá’s Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) in the city center.

Explore the enchanting narratives that shroud Lake Guatavita and delve into the mystique that surrounds the El Dorado legend. Understanding the cultural significance of these stories adds an extra layer of fascination to your day trip, transforming it into a journey through time and myth.

Activities and Sightseeing

A Lake Guatavita day trip offers a plethora of activities and sightseeing opportunities, ensuring a fulfilling experience. Here are key highlights to include in your itinerary:

Scenic Spots:

Hiking trails:, cultural sites:, water activities:.

These activities promise a well-rounded and enriching experience, catering to varied interests and ensuring that every moment at Lake Guatavita is filled with discovery.

How to Get to Lake Guatavita

During weekends, you can opt for a convenient journey to the town of Guatavita by taking a bus from Portal Norte and making a transfer in Sesquilé. Alternatively, catch a bus from Calle 72 with Carrera 9 to La Calera and then board a bus to Guatavita town. This will cost about $5 USD.

You will then have to take a local colectivo bus from the town to the actual lake.

However, for a smoother experience, consider booking a tour to Guatavita directly from Bogotá. This allows for a seamless journey with the guidance of an English-speaking tour guide. And the tour will get you back to Bogota at the end of the trip!

A Note About Food

While the park’s regulations strictly prohibit bringing food inside, in reality, I managed to discreetly carry some nuts and cheese in my pocket without encountering any checks. It seems that as long as you keep your snacks hidden, you’ll likely go unnoticed. Presumably, these rules aim to reduce litter on the trail. Just something to keep in mind and be prepared for.

Is Guatavita Lake Worth Visiting?

I believe a visit to Guatavita is worthwhile, especially if you are a resident of Bogotá or planning an extended stay. The reason being, the travel time required to reach Guatavita may compete with other nearby attractions just outside Bogotá, such as Zipaquirá and the Salt Cathedral, Chingaza National Park, and the Coffee Farm at Tibacuy.

With so many enticing options, it might be challenging to explore everything in a limited timeframe. Consequently, considering Guatavita as a secondary option could be more suitable if your stay in Bogotá is brief. It is certainly worth visiting if you have the time.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

Trending now

• Contact Us Plan Your Trip
• GBP (£)

GUATAVITA AND THE LEGEND OF EL DORADO IN COLOMBIA

April 18, 2024, 6:51 pm

Located just 2 hours away from  Bogotá , Colombia, Guatavita is one of the most popular destinations for a day tour out of the city. This small town is also called "Guatativa la Nueva" ("The New Guatavita"), as it was built in the 1960s to relocate the inhabitants of the original Guatavita that was flooded during the construction of the Tomine reservoir. This reservoir was created to generate electric power for the nearby localities and to increase the water supply for Bogota. Guatavita was re-built as a perfect replica of a Spanish colonial town with its houses exhibiting white facades, rustic stucco, clay tiles and simple wooden doors and windows.

The New Guatavita has everything you need to enjoy a pleasant day trip from Bogota: excellent restaurants, various handicrafts shops, a beautiful church and a museum with a small collection of indigenous artifacts  The reservoir also offers the option to engage in water sports like boating and water skiing.

As part of your tour to Guatavita, you can also visit the ancient and sacred Lake Guatavita , located just 30 min from the town heading towards Sesquile. The lake is famous for the Legend of El Dorado, which refers to the treasures held deep inside the waters of the lake.

The Lake Guatavita is a mystic, peaceful and perfect circle of water. There are different opinions about the origins of the lake and the reason for its circular shape, It could be a volcanic crater or the result of a meteorite impact. At the lake you can walk up to the rim of the crater from where you can see the extensive countryside of the Bogota Savannah.

According to the legend, the ceremony to appoint the new Muisca Chief (The Muiscas were the native inhabitants of Bogota and other parts of Cundinamarca and Boyaca) used to happen at the centre of this lake. It is said that the new Muisca chief was covered in gold dust and then sailed to the centre of the lake in a wooden raft from which he would subsequently jumped into the water. The raft was loaded with precious treasures that were later thrown into the water as a symbol of adoration to their gods.

When the Spaniards came to this territory and heard about the legend of El Dorado, they organised many expeditions to find the gold submerged in the lake, they even attempted to drain the lake but nothing was never found. We think the real treasure of Guatavita is its fantastic natural beauty and tranquility. It is truly a magical place where visitors can experience a mystical encounter with nature and relax surrounded by one of the most beautiful landscapes near Bogota.

Share with your traveller friends!

Nidia Penagos

Nidia started Uncover Colombia after feeling the tug to promote her native country through a positive perspective. What better way to do that than showing visitors the beauty and diversity of her homeland? She was well-aware Colombia didn’t have the best reputation and she wanted to change that. So in 2012, with the help of her Colombian husband and close group of friends, she laid the foundation to build a Colombian tour operator that offers unique adventures, safe experiences and utilises local knowledge on each and every tour. 

RELATED TOURS

Cooking & food tour bogota, from $0 1 day, indigenous culture and nature tour, salt cathedral of zipaquira tour.

Booking completed. You will receive email with booking confirmation.

Payment Gateway Error

We are sorry but we are facing our payment gateway error. Please try again soon.

AVAILABILITY ERROR

We are sorry but we cannot complete booking due to availability change. Please try again with new dates.

BOOKING ERROR

Booking key error.

We are sorry but we cannot complete booking due to booking key error. Please try again.

Almost done! You will now be directed to PayPal to complete the secure booking process. You're so close to booking an amazing holiday in Colombia!

Don't miss out!

Hi there, let us inspire you for your next holidays and get exclusive offers and updates on our latest tours!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

Venice’s Tourist Fee Is Now in Effect — What to Know

The fee is in place for day-visitors over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stacey Wreathall/Travel + Leisure

Day visitors to Venice on Thursday had to pay to get in as the famous city started implementing the much-talked about day trip fee.

Travelers hoping to explore the Italian city had to pony up €5 ($5.36) per person at the train station. The fee, which was first floated as an idea in 2019 but postponed several times , will initially be in effect for 29 days and cover most weekends through mid-July.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official, told The Associated Press . “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

The dates the fee is in effect were displayed on large signs at Venice’s main train station on Thursday, the wire service reported, with separate entrances available for tourists, and residents, students, and workers.

The fee, which is in effect for travelers over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m., can be paid online . Day visitors who pay in advance receive a QR code, which they must then show to officials at Venice's main access points.

On Thursday, the AP noted there were stewards available to help travelers unaware of the new rules to download the QR code and pay.

Tourists who are staying overnight will not have to pay the new day fee, but must apply online for an exemption . Overnight guests who book a hotel stay are already subject to a different tax.

This fee is the city’s latest effort to address overtourism. In January, Venice built on that goal by announcing plans to limit the number of travelers allowed on tour groups to no more than 25 people. That rule will apply to Venice’s historic center as well as the popular islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

These efforts come months after UNESCO spared Venice from its list of world heritage sites in danger once again despite recommendations to add it.

Top 9 day trips to take from Cincinnati

CINCINNATI — Cincinnati and the surrounding Tri-State area has so much to offer, but sometimes it's refreshing to explore somewhere new.

Throughout Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, there are tons of exciting towns and experiences just a few hours outside of the Cincinnati area — and we're talking other than big cities like Columbus, Indianapolis and Louisville.

Whether you're looking for fun hikes or cool shopping experiences, here are the Top 9 day trips you can take from Cincinnati:

Yellow Springs

Distance from Cincinnati: About 1 hour

Located just north of Dayton, Yellow Springs is full of eclectic shops, galleries, restaurants and more. Outside of the downtown area, there are plenty of bike trails along the Little Miami Scenic Trail and hiking spots in Glen Helen and other areas. Yellow Springs is also often home to festivals, markets, street fairs and other events.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Distance from Cincinnati: About 2 1/2 hours

Have you ever wanted to experience the magic of Christmas year round? Then head to Santa Claus, Indiana. The Christmas-themed town is also home to Holiday World amusement park and Splashin' Safari water park. Outside of the amusement and water park, Santa Claus also has restaurants, shops and a museum that tells the origin of the town and its name.

Red River Gorge

Distance from Cincinnati: About 2 hours

With more than 100 natural sandstone arches, Red River Gorge , which lies within Daniel Boone National Forest, is a gorgeous oasis for hiking, rock climbing, camping and more just a couple hours away from Cincinnati. The gorge has plenty of popular hiking trails that vary in difficulty for all experience levels. There's also zipline tours, underground kayak tours and more to enjoy.

Ohio Caverns

Known as "America's most colorful caverns," the Ohio Caverns are roughly two hours north of Cincinnati. Guests can take a tour of two different parts of the underground caverns in the summer and one part in the winter. The tours feature stalactites and other formations that were first explored in 1897.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Distance from Cincinnati: Varies

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a unique day trip, because it's truly what you make of it. The Tri-State area has plenty of stops from the bourbon trail, but the farthest distillery is roughly 4 hours from Cincinnati. In between, there are plenty of distilleries, such as Woodford Reserve in Versailles, Maker's Mark in Loretto, Four Roses in Lawrenceburg and many more. For the full map of Kentucky Bourbon Trail stops, click here.

Hocking Hills State Park

Located in Logan, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a breathtaking state park that's only a couple hours away from Cincinnati. There are cabins at the park that could be rented out for a longer trip, but those just exploring for the day will want to experience highlights like Old Man's Cave and Ash Cave. Cedar Falls is also a park highlight that showcases some beautiful rock walls and waterfalls.

Little Nashville

Wanting to enjoy Nashville without driving all the way to Tennessee? Well, head on out to Nashville, Indiana AKA Little Nashville. The town, which is located in Brown County, is known for its various locally-owned shops and stores where shoppers can find everything from handcrafted jewelry to furniture, clothing and more. There's also plenty of restaurants and entertainment throughout the town as well — it wouldn't be Nashville without some music, obviously.

Distance from Cincinnati: About 3 hours

Rhinos, giraffes and cheetahs in Ohio? You read that correctly. The Wilds , which is located in Cumberland, Ohio, is one of the largest conservation centers in the world, spanning 10,000 acres east of Columbus. Endangered and threatened species, such as zebras, ostriches and African painted dogs, roam the park. Guests can either take a tour (there are multiple types) of the park, or there are lodging options for those wanting to spend more than a day there.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Home to the longest cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave National Park is just a few hours from Cincinnati. The park has plenty to experience, including cave tours, hiking, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding and more. Entering the park itself is free and open to the public, but exploring the caves requires tickets. There are multiple different cave tours available, with some lasting as long as 4 hours.

Sign up for the Breaking News Newsletter and receive up to date information.

Now signed up to receive the breaking news newsletter..

Find WCPO 9 everywhere you stream.

Choose between stability and ‘downward spiral,’ China tells Blinken during Beijing trip

C hinese leader Xi Jinping said the US and China should be “partners rather than adversaries” as he met with top American diplomat Antony Blinken in Beijing’s cavernous Great Hall of the People on Friday.

The meeting, which took place on the final day of Blinken’s three–day visit to China , comes as the two countries seek to continue to stabilize rocky relations and expand communication – including on a host of contentions from technology to Taiwan.

“China would like to see a confident, open and prosperous United States. We hope that the United States will view China’s development in a positive light,” Xi told Blinken.

“Once this fundamental problem is solved … Sino-US relations will truly get better and move forward,” he said. “China and the US should be partners rather than adversaries; help each other succeed rather than harm each other.”

Xi’s comments come as Chinese officials bristle at actions Washington has taken in the name of national security in the face of an increasingly assertive China, but which Beijing sees as meant to suppress its development. Those have included  US controls  on the export to China of high-tech goods that could have military uses, as well as curbs on US investment in certain high-tech sectors in China.

On Wednesday, US President Joe Biden signed a bill that could lead to a  nationwide ban on the social media platform TikTok  if the company’s Chinese parent ByteDance doesn’t sell it – legislation Beijing has previously decried.

Blinken told Xi the US was “committed to maintain and strengthen lines of communications” with China and “deal responsibly with our differences, so we would not have any miscommunications, misperceptions and any miscalculations.”

Examples of recent progress Blinken cited included “restoring military-to-military communications, counternarcotics and thinking together about the futures of artificial intelligence.”

Their meeting followed five hours of face time between Blinken and counterpart Wang Yi, which both sides characterized as “substantive and constructive.”

But Wang was also clear about sharp tensions that still exist between the world’s two superpowers. As their meetings got underway, Wang said China and the US face a choice between stability and a “downward spiral.”

“Should China and the United States keep to the right direction of moving forward with stability or return to a downward spiral? This is a major question before our two countries, and tests our sincerity and ability,” Wang told Blinken during a meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, after saying US-China ties were “beginning to stabilize.”

“Should our two sides lead international cooperation against global issues and achieve win-win for all? Or engage in rivalry and confrontation – or even slide into conflict, which would be a lose-lose for all?” he said, speaking through an interpreter.

During a closed-door meeting later, Wang accused the US of “taking endless measures to suppress China’s economy, trade, science and technology” and over-hyping recent concerns about China’s industrial “overcapacity” flooding global markets.

“(US measures are) not fair competition, but containment, and it is not removing risks, but creating risks,” he said, according to a readout from Chinese state media.

In his comments to Wang ahead of the closed door session, Blinken pointed to a “shared responsibility” between the two countries to “make sure that we’re as clear as possible about the areas where we have differences.”

“I hope we can make some progress on the issues that our presidents agreed we should cooperate on, but also clarify our differences, our intents, and make very clear to each other where we stand,” Blinken said.

The trip is the latest in a string of high-level engagements that included a summit meeting between President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in California in November, following a period of immense tension.

Both sides also discussed next steps on a commitments made by the two leaders on advancing cooperation on counternarcotics, military-to-military communication, talks on artificial intelligence risks and safety, and facilitating people-to-people exchanges, the US State Department said following the meeting.

Speaking to reporters after his meetings, Blinken said the two countries would hold their first talks on artificial intelligence and its risks “in the coming weeks.”

‘Peace and stability’

Blinken’s trip to China – his second in the space of a year – also comes as the two countries navigate a host of thorny geopolitical and regional issues from China’s support for Russia to its aggression in the South China Sea and toward Taiwan.

Among the key concerns for the US is what Washington has described as China’s support for Russia’s defense industrial base, which it says has enabled Moscow to continue its war against Ukraine.

During his news conference, Blinken said he reiterated the US’ “serious concerns” about China’s provision of dual use parts “that are powering Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.”

“Russia would struggle to sustain its assault on Ukraine without China’s support,” he said, adding that he had “made clear that if China does not address this problem, we will.”

Beijing has previously slammed the US for making “groundless accusations” over “normal trade and economic exchanges” between China and Russia.

Blinken also said he stressed the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and encouraged China to use its influence to discourage Iran and its proxies from expanding the conflict in the Middle East, as well as to press North Korea to end its “dangerous behavior and engage in dialogue.”

China’s readout notes that the two sides exchanged views on the “Ukrainian issue, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, North Korea, Myanmar and other issues.”

Wang called on the US to “stop coercing regional countries to choose sides,” and said the Asia-Pacific region “should not become a battleground for major powers,” in a likely allusion to its concerns about the US growing defense relationships with long-standing Asian allies.

On Taiwan, Wang repeated Beijing’s typical warning that the “Taiwan issue is the first insurmountable red line” in US-China relations.

China’s ruling Communist Party claims Taiwan as part of its territory, despite having never controlled it, and has ramped up its military intimidation of the democratic island in recent years.

It decries the unofficial relationship between the US and Taiwan, as well as arms sales to Taiwan, which the US is obligated to make under the Taiwan Relations Act.

This story and headline have been updated to reflect additional developments.

CNN’s Wayne Chang contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com

In honor of Earth Day 2024, today's Google Doodle takes us on a trip around the world

Want to take a trip around the world? You can in two seconds thanks to Google.

Releasing its annual Earth Day doodle, Google displays the beauty of all six continents around the world. Using satellite technology, the search engine giant created a collage with each Google letter that shows the global sustainability efforts within each continent. The goal for this doodle is to give the audience a tour of positive environmental change in the world.

Here's a look at the Google Doodle for Earth Day:

When is Earth Day 2024?: Get ready to help your planet with our guide to the holiday.

Letters in Earth Day Google Doodle represent climate change progress

Location: Turks and Caicos Islands

Turks and Caicos is home to many biodiversity areas. In an effort to preserve the countries conservation, the island has made an effort to protect natural resources such as reefs and restoring endangered species like the rock iguana.

Location: Scorpion Reef National Park, Mexico .

Flying to the Gulf of Mexico, Google makes a stop in Arrecife de Alacranes. This is the largest reef in the southern Gulf of Mexico and the UNESCO biosphere reserve. In this marine protected area, many coral and several endangered bird and turtle species call this area home.

Location: Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

If you like the cold you'll love Google's pitstop in Iceland. Although the country is well-known for its polar bears, the country has more beauty offer. In 2008, the UNESCO World Heritage Site was established as a national park to protect the ecosystem in and around Europe’s largest glacier. With the mix of volcanoes and glacial ice, this area is able to produce rare landscapes and flora.

Location: Jaú National Park, Brazil

If you'd like to spend time in a forest, Brazil's got you covered. Parque Nacional do Jaú is one of South America’s largest forest reserves. Located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest this UNESCO World Heritage Site protects many species, including the Amazonian manatee, the giant otter, jaguar and the margay.

Location: Green Great Wall, Nigeria

Bringing you back to the heat, Google take us to Nigeria. The African Union-led initiative's goal is to restore the land affected by desertification across the width of Africa. To combat this, the group has planted trees and other vegetation in sustainable ways. By doing this, communities in the area have seen an increased economic opportunities, food security and climate resilience since 2007.

Location: Pilbara Islands Nature Reserves, Australia

To end the journey around the world, Google's last stop is one of the Pilbara Island Nature Reserves in Australia. These reserves help protect fragile ecosystems, increasingly rare natural habitats and threatened or endangered species. Some of the species include marine turtles, shorebirds and seabirds.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X @forbesfineest.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

How we handle corrections

• Skip to content

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology builds the eBird global platform for communities and partners around the world to advance data-driven science, education, and conservation.

Change Region

• News & Resources
• Recent Checklists
• Trip Reports
• Illustrated Checklist
• Hotspot Map
• Rare Bird Alerts
• Printable Checklist

Global Big Day—11 May 2024

Available languages.

• Macaulay Library

Be a part of birding’s biggest team! Global Big Day is an annual celebration of the birds around you. No matter where you are, join us virtually on 11 May, help celebrate World Migratory Bird Day , and share the birds you find with eBird.

Participating is easy—you can even be part of Global Big Day from home. If you can spare 5 or 10 minutes, report your bird observations to eBird online or with our free eBird Mobile app . If you have more time, submit several checklists of birds throughout the day. You never know what you might spot. Your observations help us better understand global bird populations through products like these animated abundance maps brought to you by eBird Science.

Last year, Global Big Day collected more data about birds on a single day than ever before. More than 58,000 people gathered 3.2 million bird observations on 148,000 checklists, setting new world records for a single day of birding. Will you help us make this the year we surpass 150,000 checklists on a single day?

A total of 401 species were recorded and 15,137 checklists were submitted by an incredible 9,533 eBirders in Canada – the second highest number of eBirders and checklists submitted in the world! You can explore all of the Canadian 2023 Global Big Day stats here .

How to participate

• Get an eBird account: eBird is a worldwide bird checklist program used by millions of birders. It’s what allows us to compile everyone’s reports into a single massive Global Big Day list—while at the same time collecting data to help scientists better understand birds. Sign up here. It’s 100% free from start to finish.
• Enjoy birds on 11 May: It’s that simple. You don’t need to be a bird expert or go out all day long, even 10 minutes of birding from home counts. Global Big Day runs from midnight to midnight in your local time zone. You can report what you find from anywhere in the world.
• Enter what you see and hear in eBird: You can enter your sightings via our website or download the free eBird Mobile app   to make submitting lists even easier. Please enter your checklists before 14 May to be included in our initial results announcement.
• Watch the results roll in: During the day, follow along with bird observations from more than 200 countries in real-time on our Global Big Day page .

eBird Trip Reports on Global Big Day

eBird Trip Reports are a great way to share where you went and the birds you found on Global Big Day. Simply create an eBird Trip Report for 11 May 2024. As you submit lists and upload media throughout the big day, they’ll be added to your report automatically. Send the trip report link to friends and family so they can follow along. ( Learn more about eBird Trip Reports )

Global Big Day Pro Tips

• The Cornell Lab’s free Merlin Bird ID app can help you to identify the birds you see and hear on Global Big Day.
• Use eBird Mobile Explore to find recently reported species or new places to go birding nearby.
• Take photos and sound recordings and add them to your checklist —they might end up on the Global Big Day page!
• Make your sightings more valuable:  submit complete checklists ,  keep counts of the birds that you see, and keep multiple checklists throughout the day.
• Share what you’re seeing on social media with #GlobalBigDay !

On 11 May, we hope you’ll be a part of our global birding team. Have fun, enjoy the birds you find, stay safe, and share your sightings on eBird. Because in our world, every bird counts.

Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip from Bogota

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide
• Guatavita Natural Reserve ticket.
• Entry/Admission - Laguna de Guatavita
• Pick up service from Bogotá Hotels /Accommodations. Please enter your pick up details. * Note: pick-up from other towns have an additional cost (including but not limited to Chía, Cota, Funza, Mosquera, La Calera). Please contact us to arrange it.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• A medium-high amount of walking is involved; you must be of average fitness and able to keep up with the rest of the group
• Hiking shoes are necessary for this activity
• Guatavita lake is closed on Mondays or Tuesdays if Monday is a bank holiday
• Maximum altitude of this hike is 3000 MASL.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Laguna de Guatavita Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Guatavita Stop: 3 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• SmokoB 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent insight, seeing how people changed their lives for a better future. Great insight into the life of the people at Egipto. It is such a success story. We learned about the livelihood in this areas in 1990s and how these people leading a better future to their community. Read more Written April 15, 2024
• carlosvenegascon2016 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great place to visit in Colombia full adventure and natural view It's an amazing experience to visit mesetas, the rafting by the Guejar Canyon took 5 hours of some rapids, incredible views. All was very good organized not only by the Willytour company but also by the whole community all along the travel, but this is not the only experience, for other days you can go to beautiful waterfalls where you can swim and very nice walks to the waterfall at Arenales. You can have an incredible view of the surrounds of Mesetas going up to the Mirador del Indio Acostado, where you can distinguish The andes mountains, eastern planes and the mountains chains that are older than Andes. A great surprise is that these zone was zone of violence and now is place of peace and of really important integration of the community to attend you in a very good way Read more Written April 11, 2024
• Sixtyagogo 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The Best of the Best Excellent and educational, but most importantly YUMMY! fruit market tour. We started with the flower market and then proceeded to local pastries and a beverage to prepare your stomach for all types of fruit. Sara , our guide, enthusiastically walked us through the market with plenty of skill and information. She is a delight to be with ad brimming with knowledge. The fruit tasting part was really fun and entertaining. The market itself is a feast for the eyes. Dont hesitate to do this! Read more Written April 6, 2024
• AuntBee13 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Just perfect! Because we were flying to Armenia (Coffee region) in the afternoon, we booked a half-day Bogota tour with Impulse Travel, and were fortunate to be assigned to Gigio as our guide. At 8:30 am, he was waiting for us with a driver in a very comfortable van outside the Marriott. Upon pick up, we hit the ground running and have nothing but great things to say about Gigio and this tour. His English was wonderful and he was so informative! He was strategic about the order of our visits to ensure we got the most out of every minute, especially given the Easter holiday. He introduced us to Bogota and walked us through the Calendaria area. He treated us to different fruits and chocolate at the market. We enjoyed coffee in the middle of the tour while we listened to a street performer. Gigio’s energy and love for his country was contagious, and we wish we could have taken him with us throughout the rest of our trip!! He gets our highest recommendation! Read more Written March 30, 2024
• 1lornie 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Religious Experience The Salt Cathedral is a true religious experience, much like Machu Picchu. It is 850' below the surface. One doesn't think of this while walking because of the carvings and Stations of the Cross. The most spectacular part of the visit was Christ speaking on one side of the wall, his words projected on the opposite side and the cross illuminated in the center. It is shown only during Easter week. It's hard to imagine that this could be carved out of the salt mountain. Read more Written March 30, 2024
• elvirap893 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Learning about Peace Great tour focusing on the history of civil violence and the ways that peace is impacting the lives of so many. We really enjoyed the discussions as well as the Fragmentos museum. As you walk on the tour, you will notice other historical aspects. Read more Written March 13, 2024
• tobias_lm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 6-hour transit tour Exellent experience. Pick-up and drop-of worked very smooth. Fantastic guide who was very flexible to all our requests. Read more Written March 8, 2024
• alaincL7405WL 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles You’re in good hands I almost never use a travel agent. Never one that isn’t based in-country. Wandering the planet as a journalist for many decades has taught me to find things out for myself. Having said that if you were to use one in Colombia you can’t go far wrong with Impulse. They’re a young team, they’re keen, they’re reliable and they take an interest in their clients. We felt looked after which was just as well as I was ill for about 10 days. Felipe was helpful to a fault. I think it took him a while to figure out what kind of travellers we are but he was always thoughtful, open-minded and up for a challenge. Recommend Impulse without reservations. You’re in good hands Read more Written February 18, 2024
• 173katep 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unmissable Fascinating tour. A really insightful guide to Columbia’s history and culture. Highly recommended. Our guide brought us to Caio us sections of the city and included in the price was a fabulous farm to table lunch., which was simply delicious. Read more Written February 17, 2024
• roman4soccer 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Breathtaking Bogota Tour! Martha Jamoco and her driver gave us an amazing private tour of Monserrate, The Botero and Gold Museums, and many sites around the city of Bogota. The tour was on schedule, really informative and very friendly. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Bogota. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see the best highlights of this amazing city! Read more Written February 15, 2024
• 137sarahy 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptional experience in Columbia! We had a wonderful time on our tour in Bogota! My only regret is not being able to stay longer. From the scenic mountain tops, live music, art, food, and coffee, Bogota is truly an incredible experience. Our guide, Gigio was absolutely the best part! His enthusiasm, knowledge and love for the city truly shined and encouraged us to want to come back. I highly recommend this tour, especially using Gigio as your guide. Read more Written February 10, 2024
• BrandonB124 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great company The tour guide was so excellent (Raul) and the drive was fantastic (I'm pretty sure name was Juan), we enjoyed the key activities of a perfectly clear day at Monserrate, Gold Museum, a walk through downtown neighborhoods, a nice lunch with typical food. We had very limited time at Botero museum due to being a little behind. The only complaint is that we did not get the tour we signed up for: it was only 6 hours (not 8), did not include all the sites described on the itinerary (which is why I chose this tour over others), and was not private (we had 2 other people with us: they were very pleasant and nice to have around however). We did not get contacted the day before and I was not able to reach anyone through the Get Your Guide app or earlier at the travel company by phone, but they did show up on time at the location we specified! So: fantastic tour, but I think we were lumped into another tour we did not specify without being told, with less included, it was still wonderful, the company is very good, needs better communication with GetYourGuide Read more Written February 10, 2024
• J3740HYfredj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bogata Visit This was one of the most interesting tours I have been on. Raul our guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the subject. It was interesting learning about the troubles in Columbia and the efforts being made since. The places visited were very all relevant and the visit to the art installation was very moving. I would recommend this tour. Read more Written February 8, 2024
• myopinion99 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best experience in Bogotá, No Words strong enough ! Don't miss to support amazing hearts of " egipto" inhabitants I read on sites " best experience " and now I do understand why ❤️ In company of Harrold y Pato del barrio de Egipto y Raul de Impulse travel I had an easy walk of a few hours just steps away from the so touristic" plaza del charron de quevedo"en La Candelaria barrio. Amazing way to ear story of a breaking vicious circle of violence and drugs, told by people with strong character who succeed in changing immovable destinies. The force that emanates from it is the force of life and " No Words " the best summary of an adventure that no visitor should be without. a mandatory visit. Read more Written February 6, 2024
• W3782WUamandam 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time in Bogota My son and I had a great tour of Bogota with Gigio. He was very friendly and knowledgeable. Our driver Andres was excellent. I highly recommend them for your tour. Read more Written January 13, 2024

More to explore in Bogota

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

Guatavita Lagoon Half-Day Trip from Bogota provided by Impulse Travel