✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Guatavita, Colombia: Jan or Feb 2026

Guatavita, Colombia travel destination - scenic view of Laguna de Guatavita's Mystical Depths during ideal visiting season — Image: Guatavita - Coliseo.JPG viaWikimedia Commons

✈️ Ready to book your trip?

Compare flights, hotels, and packages on Trip.com

Quick Answer:

For an inspiring visit to Guatavita, Colombia, aim for the dry season, roughly from December to March. During these months, the skies are often clear, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding emerald hills and the iconic Laguna de Guatavita, often kissed by a gentle morning mist. You'll find the weather pleasantly cool, perfect for exploring the charming colonial streets and perhaps catching a glimpse of local artisans. Alternatively, the shoulder months of June and July can also be rewarding, with fewer crowds and a chance to experience the vibrant local culture amidst lush, green landscapes.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarAprJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Airport Code

BOG

Coordinates

4.78°, -73.87°

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)

Traveler Recommended

One Travel Essential Almost Everyone Forgets

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)

Compact all-in-one adapter with US, UK, EU and AU plugs plus fast USB charging, so you can charge your phone and laptop in 150+ countries without hunting for the right plug.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top Things to Do

Laguna de Guatavita's Mystical Depths

Embark on a pilgrimage to the sacred Laguna de Guatavita, the legendary heart of the El Dorado myth. Hike the gentle trails surrounding the emerald waters, keeping an eye out for the diverse birdlife, and feel the palpable spiritual energy of this Muisca ceremonial site. Consider hiring a local guide to unlock the deeper stories and significance of this breathtaking natural wonder.

Savoring the Flavors of a Traditional 'Ajiaco'

Seek out a cozy, family-run restaurant in the town center and indulge in a steaming bowl of ajiaco, a hearty chicken and potato soup flavored with guascas herbs. This is the quintessential Colombian comfort food, best enjoyed on a cooler afternoon, perhaps with a side of avocado and a dollop of cream. Ask locals for their favorite spot for an authentic taste.

Exploring Guatavita's Colorful Colonial Streets

Wander through the charming, whitewashed streets of Guatavita's old town, admiring the vibrant flower boxes adorning every balcony. Discover hidden plazas, browse artisan craft shops selling intricate mochilas and ceramics, and soak in the relaxed, authentic Colombian village atmosphere. The early morning or late afternoon light casts a magical glow on the architecture.

Hiking to the Mirador 'El Salto'

For panoramic vistas that will steal your breath, trek to the Mirador 'El Salto' viewpoint. This moderate hike rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, the reservoir, and the distant Andes mountains. Pack some snacks and water, and aim for a clear day to truly appreciate the expansive beauty.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Getting to Guatavita from Bogotá is easiest by bus. Head to the Terminal de Transportes del Norte and look for buses heading to 'Guatavita'. The ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs around 10,000-15,000 COP. It's a scenic journey, so grab a window seat!

money

While many places in Guatavita accept credit cards, it's wise to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or local eateries. ATMs can be scarce, so withdraw enough Colombian Pesos (COP) in Bogotá before you head out. This will save you a potential headache if you need to buy souvenirs or a quick snack.

culture

Guatavita is deeply connected to the Muisca indigenous culture and the legend of El Dorado. When visiting the Laguna de Guatavita, be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid loud noises and littering, and consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for a richer understanding of the history and symbolism.

food

Don't leave Guatavita without trying a 'trucha' (trout), a local specialty. Many restaurants around the main plaza serve it prepared in various delicious ways, often grilled or fried with garlic. Pair it with a side of 'patacones' (fried plantains) for a truly satisfying Colombian meal.

packing

The weather in Guatavita can be unpredictable, even on sunny days. Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes, as you'll likely be doing some exploring around the lake and the charming town. A hat and sunscreen are also essential due to the high altitude.

safety

Guatavita is generally a very safe town, but it's always good practice to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or when walking alone at night. Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items. The local police are friendly and helpful if you need assistance.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

5 days

Feb

6 days

Mar

9 days

Apr

11 days

May

13 days

Jun

12 days

Jul

11 days

Aug

11 days

Sep

11 days

Oct

10 days

Nov

8 days

Dec

6 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	19°C	8°C	66°F	46°F	40mm	5 days	11.8h
Feb	19°C	8°C	66°F	46°F	45mm	6 days	11.9h
Mar	19°C	9°C	66°F	48°F	70mm	9 days	12.1h
Apr	19°C	9°C	66°F	48°F	90mm	11 days	12.2h
May	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	110mm	13 days	12.2h
Jun	17°C	8°C	63°F	46°F	95mm	12 days	12.1h
Jul	17°C	8°C	63°F	46°F	80mm	11 days	11.9h
Aug	17°C	8°C	63°F	46°F	85mm	11 days	11.7h
Sep	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	90mm	11 days	11.6h
Oct	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	75mm	10 days	11.5h
Nov	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	60mm	8 days	11.5h
Dec	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	45mm	6 days	11.5h

Quick Tip: May sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Jun in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

17°C°C / 63°F°F

12 days rainy days • 95mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

17°C°C / 63°F°F

11 days rainy days • 80mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Aug in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

17°C°C / 63°F°F

11 days rainy days • 85mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Sep in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

11 days rainy days • 90mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

10 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Nov in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

8 days rainy days • 60mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Dec in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

6 days rainy days • 45mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

All Things to Do in Guatavita, Colombia

Laguna de Guatavita's Mystical Depths

nature

Best time: Jan-Mar

Savoring the Flavors of a Traditional 'Ajiaco'

food

Best time: Apr-Jun

Exploring Guatavita's Colorful Colonial Streets

cultural

Best time: Year-round

Hiking to the Mirador 'El Salto'

activity

Best time: Jul-Aug

Discovering Local Crafts at the Mercado Artesanal

shopping

Immerse yourself in the local artistry at the weekly Mercado Artesanal. Here, you can find unique, handcrafted souvenirs directly from the makers, from intricate jewelry to hand-painted textiles. It's the perfect place to find a meaningful memento and support the local community, often bustling with activity on weekend mornings.

Best time: Weekends

A Taste of 'Changua' at Dawn

food

Experience a truly local breakfast by trying changua, a simple yet delicious milk-based soup with eggs and herbs, often served with a side of bread. Enjoying this warming dish in a small café as the town awakens offers a glimpse into the daily rhythms of Guatavita life. It's a humble yet deeply satisfying culinary ritual.

Best time: Year-round

Kayaking on the Guatavita Reservoir

activity

Escape the crowds and embrace the tranquility by renting a kayak on the expansive Guatavita Reservoir. Paddle across the calm waters, surrounded by lush green hills, and enjoy a unique perspective of the landscape. This offers a peaceful, active way to connect with the natural beauty of the region, especially during the drier months.

Best time: Dec-Feb

Evening Ambiance in the Plaza Principal

cultural

As dusk settles, head to Guatavita's main plaza, the heart of the town's social life. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, listen to the gentle murmur of conversations from outdoor cafes, and perhaps savor a cup of rich Colombian coffee or a refreshing 'aguardiente'. It's a perfect spot to people-watch and feel the pulse of the community after dark.

Best time: Year-round

Planning your Guatavita, Colombia adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

Getting Around Guatavita, Colombia

Bus from Portal Norte

This is the most common and budget-friendly way to reach Guatavita from Bogotá. Buses depart frequently from the Portal Norte terminal and take you directly to the town center.

Cost:Approximately 10,000 - 15,000 COP one-way.

Tip:Look for buses labeled 'Guatavita' or 'Sesquilé' (which also stops in Guatavita). Avoid taking taxis from Portal Norte directly to Guatavita as they will overcharge significantly. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Be aware that some buses might be older and less comfortable, but they are reliable.

Private Taxi or Ride-Sharing (from Bogotá)

For maximum convenience and comfort, especially if you have luggage or are traveling in a group, a private taxi or a pre-booked ride-share is an option. This allows for direct travel without transfers.

Cost:Expect to pay between 100,000 - 150,000 COP one-way, depending on negotiation and traffic.

Tip:Negotiate the price *before* getting into the taxi. If using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Didi, ensure the driver is comfortable with the destination as some may cancel if it's too far. This is the fastest option, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours.

Rental Car

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Guatavita and the surrounding countryside at your own pace, including visiting nearby attractions like the Tominé Reservoir.

Cost:Rental prices vary widely, but expect around 80,000 - 150,000 COP per day for a basic car, plus fuel.

Tip:Ensure you have a valid international driving permit. Roads can be narrow and winding, especially closer to Guatavita, so drive cautiously. Parking in the main town square can be challenging on weekends; look for designated parking areas. GPS is highly recommended.

Day Tour from Bogotá

Many tour operators in Bogotá offer organized day trips to Guatavita, often including transportation, a guide, and sometimes visits to other nearby sites like the Salt Cathedral. This is a hassle-free option for those short on time.

Cost:Prices range from 150,000 - 300,000 COP per person, depending on the tour inclusions.

Tip:Book in advance, especially during peak season. Read reviews carefully to choose a reputable operator. Be mindful that these tours often have a fixed itinerary, so you'll have less freedom to explore independently.

Local 'Chiva' Bus (for specific events/weekends)

While not a regular public transport option, on weekends or during local festivals, you might find 'chivas' (open-air buses) offering rides from Bogotá or even within the Guatavita area. These are more for a festive experience than efficient transport.

Cost:Highly variable, often negotiated on the spot, but generally affordable.

Tip:This is more of a cultural experience than a practical transport method. If you see one, ask locals or the driver about the route and cost. It's a fun way to see the countryside if you're not in a hurry and want to soak in the local atmosphere.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Guatavita for that perfect, crisp mountain air and fewer crowds?

While Guatavita is lovely year-round, I find the sweet spot to be during the dry season, from December to March. You'll get those clear, sunny days perfect for exploring the lake and the surrounding hills, and the air feels wonderfully fresh. Just be aware that this is also peak tourist season, so booking accommodations in advance is a smart move.

Beyond the famous Laguna de Guatavita, are there any other natural spots that locals love but tourists often miss?

Absolutely! Many locals escape to the nearby Parque Natural Chicaque, which is a bit of a drive but offers stunning cloud forest trails and waterfalls that feel worlds away from the usual tourist path. Another gem is the Cascada La Chorrera, a beautiful waterfall that's less developed and offers a more rugged, authentic hiking experience.

What's the deal with the 'Muisca' offerings at the Laguna de Guatavita? Should I bring something?

The legend of El Dorado is deeply tied to the Muisca rituals performed at the lagoon. While you won't be performing a full ceremony, some visitors like to bring a small, biodegradable offering like a flower or a bit of fruit to leave respectfully near the designated areas. It's a thoughtful way to connect with the site's history, but remember to keep it natural and avoid anything that could pollute the water.

How easy is it to get around Guatavita and its surroundings without a car?

Getting to Guatavita from Bogotá is straightforward via bus, but once you're there, exploring the immediate town is easy on foot. For the Laguna itself or other natural sites, you'll likely want to hire a local taxi or arrange a private driver for the day. Negotiate the price beforehand, and don't be afraid to ask your accommodation for recommendations – they often have trusted contacts.

Are there any local culinary specialties I absolutely must try in Guatavita?

You're in for a treat! Definitely seek out 'trucha' (trout), as it's farmed locally and prepared in countless delicious ways – grilled, fried, or in a creamy sauce. Also, keep an eye out for 'obleas,' thin wafers often filled with 'arequipe' (dulce de leche) and other sweet toppings; they're a popular local snack, especially from street vendors.

How many days do you need in Guatavita, Colombia?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Guatavita, Colombia to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Guatavita, Colombia expensive to visit?

Guatavita, Colombia can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Guatavita, Colombia famous for?

Guatavita, Colombia is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.

Book Hotels on Booking.com Find Hotels on Trip.com Find Tours on GetYourGuide

Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!