Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá in Colombia 2024-2025

The first wonder of Colombia is located underground in the town of Zipaquira. It's one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country

Best time: all year round

The Salt Cathedral is the most visited Colombian site in the small town of Zipaquira near Bogota. It's a unique church built within the tunnels of a salt mine 200 meters underground. The mine was used by the indigenous people centuries ago.

The cathedral has three naves and a monumental cross. What is more, here you can find one of the biggest crosses in the whole world at 16 meters tall. The impressive architectural design of this Cathedral is enchanting. This underground attraction has received more than 13 million visitors from all around the world.

Visitors can stroll through the dark pathways which are accented by neon lighting. Here you can take a miners tour and learn all about the process of extracting salt from the mines. Inside you can also try Columbian coffee and some traditional food. This cathedral is available all year round and the entrance fee is approximatelly $15 per adult.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá?

Although open year-round, the best time to visit the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is between December and February, as it is peak season and the cathedral is decorated with beautiful lights while various events and concerts occur. Additionally, the temperature is typically cooler and more comfortable for guests during these months.

What is the significance of the Salt Cathedral to the indigenous people of Colombia?

Salt played an important role in the lives of Colombia’s indigenous people, who valued it as a currency and preservative and considered it a sacred element essential to their spiritual ceremonies. Thus, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is important to their culture and history, as it symbolizes the significance of salt to their livelihood and religious beliefs.

Where can visitors try traditional Colombian food near the Salt Cathedral?

Near the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, visitors can experience traditional Colombian cuisine at various restaurants. One popular restaurant located just blocks away is Restaurante Tipico Dona Elvira, where guests can enjoy dishes like Bandeja Paisa, Sancocho, and Ajiaco. Other nearby options include Restaurante Casita del Caribe, Restaurante la Taberna, and Restaurante La Mina.

How long is the miners tour in the Salt Cathedral?

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá offers a guided miners tour lasting about an hour, in English or Spanish, which teaches guests about the site's history, mining process, and transformation from a working mine to a breathtaking religious attraction. Visitors will descend 180 meters (590 feet) below the surface as part of the tour, which is included in the entrance fee.

Can visitors take any souvenirs back from the Salt Cathedral gift shop?

Visitors can bring home a variety of souvenirs from the gift shop near the entrance of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, including postcards, t-shirts, magnets, keychains, and religious items. Guests can also purchase salt-based souvenirs like salt crystals, lamps, miniature replicas of the Cathedral, or crosses for religious purposes or as keepsakes. Salt lamps are said to possess health benefits.