Guatavita: How to Get There, What to Do, and Where to Stay - Travel Guide

Guatavita, in Cundinamarca, is an ideal destination to relax, enjoy the scenery, and connect with Muisca history. Here’s a practical guide on how to get there, what to see, and where to stay.

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Where is Guatavita?

Guatavita is located northeast of Bogotá in the Cundinamarca department, at about 2,600 meters above sea level. Its mountainous surroundings provide a cool climate and ideal landscapes for disconnecting.

How to Get to Guatavita

The most common starting point is Bogotá. Below are the main options and approximate prices.

• By Plane: There is no airport in Guatavita: fly to Bogotá (the city is 43 km away) and from there rent a vehicle or take public transportation.

• By Bus (from Bogotá):

  • From the North Terminal: approximate fare $20,000 COP.

  • From Calle 72: Get on in front of the Avenida Chile Shopping Center and wait for the bus to Guatavita. It costs approximately $15,000 COP.

  • Duration and schedules vary; check departures on the same day to avoid waiting.

What to Do in Guatavita

Guatavita combines nature, history, and culture. Recommended activities for a short visit or a weekend getaway.

• Indigenous Museum of Guatavita: Located in the central square. It exhibits Muisca artifacts: paintings, models, and sculptures that tell the local history. Entrance fee is $5,000 COP. Optional guide with tip

  

• Guatavita Lagoon and the Legend of El Dorado: The lagoon is the iconic site for the El Dorado ceremony. The story attracts visitors with its mysticism and heritage. Click here for the travel guide to Guatavita Lagoon. I’ll show you how to get there, prices, and details about the place

  Representation of Muisca Ceremony

• Stroll through the town, church, plaza, and crafts: Walk along the cobblestone streets, visit the main church, and buy local crafts.

Recommended Hotels in Guatavita

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Options for different budgets and styles. Check availability and book in advance for high seasons.

• Hotel Cordi: offers accommodation with free wifi and private parking.
  Some units include a fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator and stove. Click here to see prices and book.

• Glamping Vista Lago Guatavita: Offers accommodation with balcony, mountain views, terrace, and free private parking.
  Includes towels and bed linen. Click to see prices and book

• Glamping MarQua Spa Guatavita: Offers terrace, garden, free wifi, and private parking with mountain views.
  Includes 1 bedroom, equipped kitchen (refrigerator, oven, coffee maker), and provides towels and bed linen. Click to see prices and book

Brief History and Context

Guatavita combines colonial architecture with a past linked to the Muisca civilization. The current town was rebuilt after the flooding of the old population due to the construction of a dam.

The red line in the images shows the current level of the reservoir and the relative location of the old Guatavita.

Practical Recommendations

• Check transportation and museum or lagoon schedules before leaving.

• Bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes due to the cold weather and cobblestone streets.

• Respect nature and heritage: do not litter or damage protected areas.

• Try the local cuisine and buy crafts to support the community.

• Book accommodation in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.

Guatavita is a destination that blends history, culture, and nature. Book in advance and enjoy every corner.

🏨 Exclusive discounts on Booking
With Los Viajes de Jham, get 15% off selected accommodations. 👉 View discounted accommodations