Guatavita Lagoon: How to Get There, What to Do and the Legend of El Dorado

The Guatavita Lagoon is not only a beautiful site in the middle of the Cundinamarca mountains, but also one of the most mystical places in Colombia. Surrounded by nature and wrapped in the legend of El Dorado, this place is ideal for lovers of adventure, history, and indigenous culture.

If you plan a visit, keep reading and discover how to get there, what to do, and some useful tips to make the most of your trip.

Where is the Guatavita Lagoon located?

The Guatavita Lagoon is located in the municipality of Guatavita, in the department of Cundinamarca, Colombia, about 75 kilometers northeast of Bogotá. The town of Guatavita is the last stop before reaching the lagoon and is the ideal place to stop, explore a bit and prepare for your adventure.

How to get to the Guatavita Lagoon?

To get to the Guatavita Lagoon, you will first have to go to the town of Guatavita, which is the entry point to the lagoon. From Bogotá, you can take a bus or drive by car. The trip takes approximately 1 and a half hours

• From Bogotá by bus: Head to the Portal del Norte or the Salitre terminal and take a bus that takes you to Guatavita. Buses are frequent and the trip costs $12,000 COP

• Calle 72: This point is another where buses are taken, it is in front of the Av. Chile Shopping Center or also on Calle 72 between Carreras 11 and 10

Once in Guatavita, head to the main parking lot and look for the buses that take you to the entrance of the Lagoon. Keep in mind that these work on weekends and in high season. If you arrive when they are not working, you can take a taxi.

Guatavita Lagoon entrance fee

The entrance fee is affordable, and varies if you are Colombian or foreign. It is important to carry cash, as they sometimes do not accept card payments.

• Colombians: $18,000 COP

• Foreigners: $25,500

• Colombian seniors over 62 years old: $9,000 COP

• Foreign seniors over 62 years old: $12,500 COP

  

  Photo by: Juan David Moreno

Guatavita Lagoon schedule

The Guatavita Lagoon Natural Park is open every day, except Mondays, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If Monday is a holiday, the park will be open that day and will close on Tuesday. We recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and enjoy calmly.

Hotels in Guatavita

If you plan to travel between today and September 30, 2025 , by booking through Booking with Mochiliante, you can get a 20% discount or more on your next getaway by clicking here

Guatavita has varied accommodation options for all tastes and budgets. From cozy boutique hotels and charming country houses to economical hostels and camping options. We are going to recommend 3 hotels on Booking

• Caro Ruiz lodging: This place is on the outskirts of the town, its rooms are perfect and its kitchen has everything necessary for lodging (We stayed at this place). Click here to book.

  

Photo obtained from Booking

• Glamping Cabaña San Martin: This place is on the other side of the Reservoir and has a beautiful view from the Glampings. Click here to book.

  

• Hostal Cordi: This was the first option that came out for its excellent location, price and ratings from other travelers. Click here to book.

  

The legend of the Guatavita Lagoon

Once at the lagoon, you will be surprised not only by its natural beauty, but by the mythical Legend of the Guatavita Lagoon. It is said that the ancient Muisca Indians threw gold and offerings into its waters during sacred ceremonies. This story has fueled the search for El Dorado's treasure by explorers for centuries.

Recommendations for Visiting the Guatavita Lagoon

• Wear appropriate clothing: The climate in the area is usually cool and windy, so be sure to bring a coat and comfortable shoes for walking.

• Respect nature: The Guatavita Lagoon is a sacred place for the Muisca, so it is important to respect the environment and not leave trash.

• Hydration and snacks: There are no stores at the entrance of the lagoon, so bring water and some snack for the road.

• Respect the rules: Swimming in the lagoon is not allowed nor is picking up objects. Follow the guides' instructions to help in the conservation of the place.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Guatavita Lagoon

• Why is the Guatavita Lagoon famous?
  

  The Guatavita Lagoon is famous for being the supposed origin of the Legend of El Dorado. It is said that the Muisca chiefs performed ceremonies in which the leader covered himself in gold and submerged in the lagoon as an offering to the gods.

• What is the best time to visit?

  Although the climate is temperate all year round, it is recommended to avoid the rainy months (April, May, October, and November). Clear days are ideal to enjoy the views.

• Can you swim in the Guatavita Lagoon?

  No, swimming in the lagoon is prohibited. This is a sacred and protected place for the conservation of its history and ecology.

• Are there shops or restaurants near the lagoon?

  If there are shops at the entrance of the lagoon, you can eat or drink something before starting the ascent

  

Without further ado, we hope this guide will be useful for your visit to the Guatavita Lagoon. We hope you have a good trip, full of successes, and remember that if you have questions, you can contact us by clicking here. See you soon, Backpacker! (Mochiliante) 🫡😉😁