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Guatavita: Discover the Legends and Magical Landscapes

Guatavita: Discover the Legends and Magical Landscapes

Guatavita is a charming place near Bogotá, in Cundinamarca. It's perfect for relaxing, enjoying the landscape and absorbing the positive energy that can be felt in every corner. With its history, culture and nature, Guatavita is truly fascinating and one of the most special destinations in the country.

Location of Guatavita, Cundinamarca

Guatavita is located in the department of Cundinamarca, northwest of Bogotá. This picturesque town is located at an altitude of approximately 2,600 M.A.S.L, which contributes to its cold climate.

Where is Guatavita located?

Surrounded by a mountainous topography, Guatavita offers a unique geographical environment, providing visitors with a peaceful and natural escape.

How to get to Guatavita?

Guatavita is reachable from different places, with Bogotá being the main starting point.

Transportation options to get to Guatavita

Below, we provide various transportation alternatives to reach this attractive destination.

House with Flowers in Guatavita

How to get to Guatavita by plane?

Although Guatavita does not have its own airport, you have the option of taking a flight to the city of Bogotá which is about 43 km away. Then, you can simply rent a vehicle or use public transportation (Bus), to get to Guatavita.

how to get to Guatavita by plane

How to get to Guatavita by Bus?

If you choose to travel by bus, there are various routes to Guatavita, among them. From Bogotá, you can get to Guatavita by taking a bus from the North Terminal the ticket costs $15,000 COP - $3.8 USD or also at the Transmilenio Calle 72 station, from here it has a value of $10,000 COP - $2.5 USD (We took this option).

Calle 72 Bogotá to Guatavita

What to do in Guatavita?

Guatavita has many things to do, ideal for all tastes and travel styles! From relaxed moments in nature to immersing yourself in local culture, there is something special waiting for you during your visit.

Tourist activities in Guatavita

Here we show you some of the coolest activities to do.

Church of Guatavita

Muisca Museum in Guatavita

Located in its central square The Indigenous Museum of Guatavita is a gem that immerses you in the rich history of the Muisca civilization.

Indigenous Museum of Guatavita

This museum is ideal for travelers who want to explore the ancient customs and traditions of this region of Colombia.

Muisca indigenous statue

As you enter the museum, you will be transported to the era of the Muisca civilization. Its collection includes valuable artifacts such as paintings, canvases, models and ancient sculptures, offering you a fascinating perspective of the daily life, rituals and beliefs of this ancient culture.

Muisca Indigenous Tool

These exhibits have been carefully selected to highlight the history of this civilization that thrived in the region. The value of the entry is $3,000 COP - $1 USD and the guide is optional and if you want to opt for one (which we recommend) its value is what you want to give for it.

Clay indigenous statue

Muisca clay pots

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 in Booking

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

Photo obtained from Booking

Glamping in Guatavita

  • Hostal Cordi: This was the first option that came out for us because of its excellent location, price and ratings from other travelers

History of Guatavita

The town of Guatavita itself is a true historical and cultural treasure. With its colonial architecture and cobbled streets, you will experience a kind of time travel as you stroll through its charming streets.

History of Guatavita

The town was rebuilt elsewhere after the old Guatavita was submerged to make way for the construction of an electric dam. Despite this change, the essence and history of the place endure in every corner.

Old Guatavita

Credits to whom it may concern

The red line shows the current level of the reservoir, at the top right is the current Guatavita and below the old one.

Old Guatavita

Credits to whom it may concern

The legend of El Dorado in the Guatavita lagoon

One of the most emblematic places in Guatavita is its famous lagoon, known as the Guatavita Lagoon. This beautiful body of water is the setting for the legend of El Dorado. According to the legend, there was a lost city in the jungles of Colombia that was completely covered in gold. This city was ruled by a chieftain who, during his coronation ceremony, covered himself in gold dust along with jewels and then threw himself into the sacred lagoon as a ritual that honored Chie, the goddess of water.

Guatavita Lagoon

This story attracted the attention of the Spaniards, who tried to empty the lagoon in search of its riches. Although they did not find the treasure, they managed to find several jewels and precious stones. The fascinating story of the lagoon and El Dorado is still alive today.

Representation of Muisca chieftain ceremony

Representation of the Muisca ceremony

Muisca ceremony

How to get to the Guatavita Lagoon?

To get there you can take a vehicle to the Lagoon, these leave from the parking lot in the center of the Guatavita village, it has a value of $20,000 COP round trip. Once at the Lagoon you will have to pay the entrance fee which is $18,000 COP for nationals and $25.500 for foreigners.

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