Guatavita isn’t just the famous white town near Bogotá: it’s nature, culture, tradition, and unforgettable plans that suit every taste. If you have ever wondered what to do in Guatavita, the answer is simple: way more than you imagine! From walks around the mythical Guatavita Lagoon to quiet afternoons at the Tominé Reservoir or romantic getaways in a glamping under the stars.
In this glamper’s guide, you will find the best plans in Guatavita, whether you are looking for budget-friendly options for a quick trip or a special plan to surprise your partner or enjoy with the family.
Here’s What to Do in Guatavita
Guatavita is a destination that combines history, nature, and culture, perfect for a day trip from Bogotá or for staying a whole weekend. If you ever asked yourself what to do in Guatavita, here is a guide with the most iconic places and activities that cannot be missed on your visit.
1. Explore the Guatavita Lagoon
If you are wondering what to do in Guatavita, the first thing on the list is visiting its famous sacred lagoon. The Guatavita Lagoon is one of Colombia’s most emblematic places, not only for its natural beauty but also for its historical and cultural value. This site was the setting for Muisca rituals and the origin of the El Dorado myth, a legend that still attracts travelers from all over the world.
The path to the lagoon is an ideal plan for nature lovers: trails surrounded by vegetation, pure mountain air, and viewpoints that gift spectacular views. Taking this hike is more than a tourist walk; it is a spiritual and cultural experience that connects you with the country’s ancestral past and the natural richness that characterizes Guatavita.
2. Enjoy the Tominé Reservoir
Another unmissable plan in Guatavita is visiting the Tominé Reservoir, a place that combines adventure and tranquility in one space. If you are into outdoor sports, here you can practice kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, or simply go for a boat ride while enjoying a landscape surrounded by mountains and fresh air.
But you don’t need to be an adventurer to fall in love with this place. The reservoir is also perfect for a romantic picnic, a family afternoon, or to sit at a viewpoint and watch the sun reflect on its waters at sunset. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most versatile plans in Guatavita: ideal both for those seeking adrenaline and for those who just want to relax and take unforgettable photos.
The Best Plans in Guatavita
Beyond tourist spots, what truly enriches the visit are the different plans you can experience here. From romantic getaways and budget-friendly plans to extreme adventures and cultural experiences, Guatavita has something for every type of traveler.
- Plans for couples: Guatavita is a romantic destination by nature. If you are looking to surprise your partner, here you will find plans ranging from a sunset walk by the lagoon to a magical night in a glamping in Guatavita with a bonfire and wine under the stars.
- Family plans: Traveling with family is also a great option. Guatavita offers gentle hikes, picnic areas, and activities in the town that both adults and kids enjoy. It is the ideal place to disconnect from the routine and spend quality time together.
- Budget-friendly plans: Want to enjoy without spending much? Good news: Guatavita has several free or low-cost plans. Walking around the town, visiting viewpoints, and enjoying typical gastronomy in local markets is perfect for those looking for a simple and economical plan.
- Adventurous plans: If adrenaline is your thing, in Guatavita you can practice water sports at the Tominé Reservoir, go horseback riding, or explore hiking routes that connect you with nature in its purest state.
- Cultural plans: The Muisca history and the El Dorado myth make Guatavita a place full of culture and tradition. Here you can participate in festivals, visit colonial churches, and learn about the ancestral wealth that is still kept alive.
The Best Plan in Guatavita: Experience a Glamping
While you can visit for a day, staying overnight in Guatavita completely transforms the experience. Glampings are the perfect option: domes with forest views, private jacuzzis, and bonfires under a starry sky. It is the ideal mix between adventure and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions about Guatavita
Before closing this guide, I leave you with the most common doubts travelers have before visiting Guatavita. This way, you’ll have everything ready to organize your getaway without setbacks and make the most of your experience.
When is the best time to visit Guatavita?
The good news is that Guatavita can be visited at any time of the year. However, each season has its charm:
- December to March: sunnier and drier days, ideal for hiking, visiting the lagoon, and enjoying the reservoir.
- April to June and September to November: rainy season, perfect if you enjoy nature in its greenest and most vibrant state. Just bring a raincoat and comfortable shoes.
- July and August: windy season, which makes the landscape spectacular and allows you to see kite festivals in the area.
In general, any date is good, but remember that Guatavita is over 2,600 meters above sea level, so nights are always cold. If you decide to stay in a glamping, that fresh weather will be the perfect excuse to light the bonfire or relax in a hot jacuzzi under the stars.
Are there budget-friendly accommodation options in Guatavita?
Yes, and for every budget! Guatavita offers everything from simple hostels in town to exclusive glamping experiences in the middle of nature.
- More economical options: family hostels and rural lodgings in the urban area, with very accessible prices.
- Intermediate options: cabins and eco-lodges that mix comfort with natural contact.
- Premium experiences: glampings with geodesic domes, private jacuzzis, and views of the reservoir or the mountains.
The best part is that glamping isn’t always expensive: if you book during the week, in the low season, or as a couple, you can find very competitive rates. Plus, remember that staying in a glamping isn’t just about sleeping: it’s a complete experience that includes scenery, privacy, and total disconnection.
Can water activities be done in the Guatavita Lagoon?
No, and here is the reason: the Guatavita Lagoon is a natural sanctuary and a sacred place for the Muisca people, so it is protected and water activities like swimming or boating are not allowed. The visit is done on foot, on a guided tour that combines history, mythology, and unique landscapes.
Now, if what you want is to row, practice kayaking, sailing, or even sport fishing, the right place is the Tominé Reservoir, a few minutes from the lagoon. There you can enjoy water sports without a problem, with the advantage that the landscape is just as amazing. This way, you get the best of both worlds: spirituality and history at the lagoon, and fun and adventure at the reservoir.
What kind of gastronomy can be tasted in Guatavita?
The food in Guatavita is a journey in itself. The flagship dish is fresh trout, prepared with garlic, a