✓ 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

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Quick Answer:

The most captivating time to experience Guatavita, Colombia, is during the dry season, from December to March. Imagine waking to a gentle morning mist rolling over the hills, revealing the picturesque landscape in soft light, perfect for exploring the legend of El Dorado. The skies are generally clear, offering delightful conditions for hiking around the stunning Laguna de Guatavita and enjoying the vibrant local culture without the frequent rains. Alternatively, the shoulder months of July and August can also be rewarding, with fewer crowds and a chance to witness the lush greenery after the wetter periods.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarAprJunJulOctNovDec

Airport Code

BOG

Coordinates

4.82°, -73.88°

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Top Things to Do

Laguna de Guatavita's Mystical Depths

Embark on a pilgrimage to the legendary Laguna de Guatavita, the heart of the El Dorado myth. Hike the surrounding trails for stunning views of the emerald waters, and imagine the ancient Muisca rituals performed here. Arrive early to avoid crowds and consider a guided tour to truly grasp the historical significance.

Exploring Guatavita's Colonial Charm

Wander through the picturesque streets of Guatavita's historic center, a vibrant replica of the original town that was submerged to create the Tominé Reservoir. Admire the colorful colonial architecture, browse artisan shops, and soak in the relaxed, authentic Colombian atmosphere. Visit on a weekend for a livelier feel with local families enjoying the plaza.

Savoring a 'Trucha' by the Reservoir

Indulge in the local specialty, fresh trout ('trucha'), at one of the charming restaurants overlooking the vast Tominé Reservoir. Enjoy it grilled, fried, or in a creamy sauce, paired with patacones and a refreshing local beer. The sunset views over the water while dining are truly unforgettable.

Kayaking on the Serene Tominé Reservoir

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across the tranquil waters of the Tominé Reservoir. This expansive body of water offers a peaceful escape and a different perspective of the surrounding Andean landscape. Opt for a weekday morning for the most serene experience, with glassy waters reflecting the sky.

See all 7 things to do →

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

Essential Travel Tips

culture

Embrace the 'tinto' culture! You'll see locals everywhere sipping small cups of black coffee, often from street vendors. Don't be shy to order one yourself for a few thousand pesos – it's a delicious and authentic way to experience a daily ritual and warm up on a cooler day.

money

While many places accept cards, it's wise to carry some Colombian pesos (COP) in cash, especially for smaller purchases in Guatavita town. Many artisan shops and local eateries might not have card machines, so having small bills will make transactions smooth and avoid any awkwardness.

transport

Getting to Guatavita from Bogotá is easiest by bus. Head to the Terminal del Norte and look for buses heading to 'Guatavita'. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs around 10,000-15,000 COP. Once in Guatavita town, most attractions are walkable or a short taxi ride away.

packing

Pack layers, as the weather in Guatavita can change quickly. Mornings can be crisp and cool, while afternoons might be sunny and pleasant. A light waterproof jacket is also a good idea, as sudden rain showers are common, especially around the lagoon.

food

Don't leave without trying 'trucha' (trout), a local specialty often served grilled or fried. Many restaurants around the main square in Guatavita town offer delicious preparations, often with a side of patacones (fried plantains) – it's a must-try!

safety

While Guatavita is generally safe, always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or when visiting the lagoon. Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items, just as you would in any tourist destination.

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

Weather Details

Jan

6 days

Feb

7 days

Mar

10 days

Apr

12 days

May

14 days

Jun

13 days

Jul

13 days

Aug

14 days

Sep

14 days

Oct

12 days

Nov

10 days

Dec

7 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	6 days	12h
Feb	19°C	8°C	66°F	46°F	45mm	7 days	12h
Mar	19°C	9°C	66°F	48°F	70mm	10 days	12h
Apr	19°C	9°C	66°F	48°F	90mm	12 days	12h
May	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	110mm	14 days	12h
Jun	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	95mm	13 days	12h
Jul	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	90mm	13 days	12h
Aug	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	100mm	14 days	12h
Sep	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	105mm	14 days	12h
Oct	18°C	9°C	64°F	48°F	90mm	12 days	12h
Nov	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	60mm	10 days	12h
Dec	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	40mm	7 days	12h

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

Jun in Guatavita, Colombia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

13 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

18°C°C / 64°F°F

13 days rainy days • 90mmmm

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

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

14 days rainy days • 100mmmm

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 offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Laguna de Guatavita's Mystical Depths

nature

Best time: Jan-Mar

Exploring Guatavita's Colonial Charm

cultural

Best time: Year-round

Savoring a 'Trucha' by the Reservoir

food

Best time: Year-round

Kayaking on the Serene Tominé Reservoir

activity

Best time: Dec-Apr

Discovering Artisan Crafts in the Pueblo

shopping

Hunt for unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures in Guatavita's artisan shops. Look for intricately woven textiles, colorful ceramics, and traditional Muisca-inspired jewelry. Engage with the local artisans; they often share fascinating stories behind their creations.

Hiking to the 'Piedras del Tunjo' Natural Park

nature

Venture slightly outside the main town to the Piedras del Tunjo Natural Park, a lesser-known gem featuring impressive rock formations and hiking trails. Discover ancient petroglyphs and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Cundinamarca countryside. This is a fantastic spot for nature lovers seeking a bit more adventure and fewer crowds.

Best time: Jun-Aug

Experiencing a Local 'Fonda' Evening

cultural

For a taste of authentic local life, find a 'fonda' (a small, casual bar or eatery) in the evening. Enjoy a local Aguardiente, listen to cumbia music, and perhaps even join in on a spontaneous dance. This is where you'll find the true heart of Guatavita's community spirit.

Best time: Year-round

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Getting Around Guatavita, Colombia

Direct Tourist Bus from La Candelaria

Several tour operators in Bogotá's La Candelaria district offer direct bus services to Guatavita, often combined with a visit to the salt cathedral. These are convenient if you want a hassle-free day trip with a structured itinerary.

Cost:$30 - $50 USD per person, depending on the tour package

Tip:Book in advance, especially on weekends or holidays. Confirm the exact pick-up time and location. A common mistake is assuming you can just show up; these are usually pre-booked tours. Be prepared for a full day, as these tours often include multiple stops.

Shared Taxi (Público) from Terminal Salitre

This is a more local and budget-friendly option. You'll take a taxi or bus to Terminal de Transportes Salitre in Bogotá and then find a 'público' van heading towards Guatavita. It's a shared ride, so expect stops along the way.

Cost:$5 - $8 USD per person one-way

Tip:Ask for the 'público' section for Guatavita. Be patient, as vans only depart when full. A common mistake is not having small Colombian pesos (COP) handy for the fare. Confirm the drop-off point in Guatavita; it might be a central square, not directly at the lake.

Rental Car

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Guatavita and its surroundings at your own pace. The drive from Bogotá is scenic, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

Cost:$30 - $60 USD per day for a basic car, plus fuel and parking

Tip:Ensure your rental agreement covers driving in Colombia. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Waze) as cell service can be spotty. Be aware of speed limits and local driving customs; Colombians can be assertive drivers. Parking near the lake can be limited and may have a small fee.

Private Taxi or Ride-Sharing App (e.g., Uber, Didi)

Hailing a private taxi or using a ride-sharing app from Bogotá is a comfortable option, especially if you're traveling in a group. You can negotiate a round-trip price with a taxi driver or book a one-way trip via an app.

Cost:$50 - $80 USD one-way, round-trip negotiation is recommended

Tip:For ride-sharing apps, be aware that drivers might be hesitant to accept long trips outside the city. It's often better to arrange a round-trip with a reputable taxi driver from Bogotá, agreeing on the price and waiting time beforehand. A traveler mistake is not clarifying the price upfront, leading to disputes.

Local Bus from Zipaquirá

If you're visiting the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá first, you can catch a local bus from Zipaquirá's main bus terminal to Guatavita. This is a less direct route but feasible if you're combining attractions.

Cost:$2 - $4 USD per person one-way

Tip:Check the bus schedule at the Zipaquirá terminal, as departures might not be very frequent. This option requires more time and flexibility. Travelers often overlook this connection, assuming they must return to Bogotá first.

💡 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, especially if I want to see the lagoon in its full glory?

While Guatavita is beautiful year-round, the dry season from December to March and July to August offers the clearest skies, making the lagoon's emerald waters truly shine. You'll also have more comfortable weather for exploring the surrounding natural park. Just be aware that these are also peak tourist times, so book accommodations in advance!

Beyond the main lagoon, are there any other natural spots near Guatavita that are worth exploring?

Absolutely! Don't miss the Laguna Tominé, a much larger reservoir that's perfect for kayaking or simply enjoying the expansive views, especially at sunset. For a bit of a hike and some stunning waterfalls, check out the Cascada La Chorrera, though it's a bit of a trek and best visited after a good rain for maximum flow.

What's the vibe like in the town of Guatavita itself? Is it just a gateway to the lagoon?

The town of Guatavita is a charming, colorful Pueblo de Leyenda (Legendary Town) with a distinctly relaxed pace. Spend some time wandering its cobblestone streets, admiring the white-washed buildings with brightly painted doors and windows, and enjoying a leisurely coffee. It's a wonderful place to soak in authentic Colombian small-town life, not just a place to pass through.

How do I get to Guatavita from Bogotá, and what are my transportation options once I'm there?

The most common way is to take a bus from Bogotá's Terminal del Norte; look for buses heading to 'Guatavita Centro'. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Guatavita town, you can hire a taxi or a mototaxi to take you to the Laguna Guatavita entrance, which is a few kilometers away. Walking is an option but it's quite a steep uphill climb.

Are there any local foods or drinks I absolutely must try while visiting Guatavita?

You're in the Cundinamarca region, so definitely try the 'trucha' (trout), often prepared in various delicious ways like 'al ajillo' (garlic) or 'en salsa'. And of course, you can't leave without trying a 'canelazo', a warm, spiced alcoholic drink made with aguardiente, cinnamon, and naranjilla – perfect for a cooler evening after exploring.

What's a common misconception about visiting Guatavita that travelers should be aware of?

Many people think the lagoon is easily accessible right from the town, but it's actually located within the Parque Natural Chicaque, a bit of a distance away. You'll need to factor in transportation to the park entrance, and there's an entrance fee. Also, remember that swimming is not allowed in the lagoon itself due to its sacred nature and conservation efforts.

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.

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