About Lake Guatavita
Lake Guatavita lies in a round crater in the highlands northeast of Bogota. For the Muisca it was a sacred place, where a new ruler covered in gold dust is said to have floated out on a raft and offered gold and emeralds to the waters. Spanish accounts of this ritual gave birth to the legend of El Dorado. The lake reflects the sky like a mirror. Mist often fills the crater.
Treasure hunters tried for centuries to drain the lake, cutting a notch still visible on its rim. Today the lake is protected, swimming is forbidden, and visits follow guided trails. Muisca communities have revived ceremonies in the region, and guides often share their teachings about water and earth. Approach the lake as a place of prayer rather than a treasure story. Respect for this place helps keep it alive. Listen more than you speak.
What to see
- Crater lake viewpoint
- Guided trail through Andean forest
- Notch cut by treasure hunters
- Muisca cultural teachings
- Gold Museum in Bogota with the Muisca Raft
Visiting Lake Guatavita: practical guide
- Best time
- December to March
- Hours
- Tuesday to Sunday, guided visits roughly 9:00 to 16:00
- Entry
- Paid guided entry
- Dress code
- Warm layers and rain jacket
- Nearest airport
- El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Bogota, 75 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Visits are only with guides
- Do not touch the water
- See the Muisca Raft at the Bogota Gold Museum
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Andean religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Ask permission before photographing ceremonies or people in traditional dress.
- Participate in offerings only when invited, following the guide's lead.
- Do not remove stones or objects from sacred sites.
- Hire local guides and support community run tourism.
- Be cautious about commercial ceremonies marketed to tourists.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Lake Guatavita?
Lake Guatavita is in Sesquile, Cundinamarca, Colombia, South America. GPS coordinates: 4.9779, -73.7744. The nearest airport is El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Bogota, 75 km.
What is the best time to visit Lake Guatavita?
December to March
Is there an entry fee for Lake Guatavita?
Paid guided entry Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, guided visits roughly 9:00 to 16:00
What should I wear when visiting Lake Guatavita?
Warm layers and rain jacket
Which religion is Lake Guatavita sacred to?
Lake Guatavita is sacred to Andean religion. Active place of worship.
