Bogota Day Trip: Salt Cathedral and Villa de Leyva Review

So, you’re thinking of doing that big day trip from Bogota that takes you to the Salt Cathedral and Villa de Leyva, huh? It’s a pretty popular option, and there are good reasons for that. You get to see some things that are definitely different from the usual tourist stops. But very, very is it worth the very early wake-up and the long hours in a car? Let’s talk about it.

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First Stop: Zipaquirá’s Amazing Salt Cathedral

The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá is, as a matter of fact, the first big stop on this trip. This church is carved inside a salt mine, and honestly, it’s something else. As you walk in, you’re hit by that sort of cool, damp feeling you get in caves. Then, you’re surrounded by salt, shaped into crosses and chapels. It can be pretty striking. Now, it gets busy. Expect to be walking along with lots of other people. It’s not a peaceful, reflective experience, even if it’s meant to be a cathedral. You might want to remember to dress warmly; even though you’re underground, that is that the temperature can get a bit cool. It’s also slightly humid, which is just a little thing to keep in mind.

One thing I found pretty interesting actually is that the history behind the cathedral. The miners basically started carving out small places to pray way back in the day, before it was even a big tourist spot. That’s a good bit different than the super modern lighting they have in there now. You’re almost experiencing two completely separate timelines at once.

Villa de Leyva: A Step Back in Time

After the Salt Cathedral, the drive to Villa de Leyva tends to be a decent chunk of the day. That is to say you’ll be spending a solid amount of time looking out the car window. But hey, at the end of it all you arrive in Villa de Leyva. The town, like your own grandmother’s attic, is a total throwback. Cobblestone streets meet houses that are brightly white. The main plaza really gives a feel for how things were centuries ago.

Now, Villa de Leyva isn’t just pretty. This town actually played a part in Colombia’s fight for independence. You can even see buildings where important historical events happened. You’ll sometimes notice local artisans selling handmade goods too. In a way it’s cool to support them. That is if you have some room in your suitcase.

But keep in mind, Villa de Leyva caters to tourists, basically. So expect to find the same kind of stuff in every shop. We didn’t happen to go, but locals very recommend the chocolate shops! That is, assuming you want a taste of something truly decadent.

Is It All Worth the Rush?

So, let’s get down to whether this huge day trip is worth all the hype. It’s almost definitely a long day, and you’ll spend hours and hours getting from place to place. If you like to dig a little deeper, consider taking more time in each location. However, you’re going to see a unique underground cathedral and a very charming colonial town all in a single trip.

The Salt Cathedral, yet it can be busy, is an impressive place to visit. It’s not often you get to see religious artwork inside a mine. And Villa de Leyva, really, it is a gem. Its plaza is really pretty impressive and, I am talking about, offers great photo opportunities.

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This trip might be for you if you want to see many things and you are running short of time. However, very make sure you understand how much time you’re spending in the car!

Some Recommendations

Alright, here are just a few pointers to help you make the most of it if you do decide to make the trip. First, just a little note, wear layers. It might be warm in Bogota, still, it can get chilly in the Salt Cathedral. As I was saying also, comfy shoes, absolutely essential. You’ll be doing a good bit of walking.

About lunch? Try to grab a bite of local food in Villa de Leyva. I mean that’s if you are tired of eating at the hotel. Finally, bring a camera. Actually the Salt Cathedral is surprisingly well lit these days. Also, the town square in Villa de Leyva is screaming to be photographed!

And of course, a good attitude goes very far. Remember that a good sense of humor helps very too.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision

Taking a day to visit both the Salt Cathedral and Villa de Leyva from Bogota comes with ups and downs. It shows Colombia’s amazing combination of nature, religion, and long ago times. What is great? Seeing unique spots. But remember how long it takes to get there, and think about what you like to experience while traveling. If you feel okay spending lots of time moving from place to place, it may just be the trip for you.

You might find a good day trip or be somewhat worn-out. That is how things usually are in a situation like this.

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