Lake Guatavita Guide
Uncover the Legend of El Dorado: Explore the Sacred Lake Guatavita Guide
Journey to the mystical Lake Guatavita, a crater lake steeped in indigenous history and the legendary origin of El Dorado. Located near the town of Guatavita, this stunning natural wonder was a sacred site for the Muisca people, who performed elaborate rituals involving gold offerings to their gods. The lake's serene beauty and rich cultural significance make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Colombian history and mythology. Lake Guatavita's history is intertwined with the legend of El Dorado, the mythical city of gold. The Muisca people, who inhabited the region before the arrival of the Spanish, held elaborate ceremonies on the lake. The most famous involved the Zipa, their chief, who would cover himself in gold dust and plunge into the lake, offering gold and precious stones to the gods. This ritual sparked the imagination of the Spanish conquistadors, who launched numerous expeditions in search of the fabled city, ultimately leading to the lake's association with El Dorado. Today, visitors can explore the lake and learn about its history and significance through guided tours. Swimming in the lake is prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem and preserve its sacred nature. However, the surrounding area offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. The nearby town of Guatavita offers traditional Colombian cuisine, including ajiaco (a hearty chicken and potato soup) and trucha (trout), often prepared with local herbs and spices.
Transportation
From Bogotá, take a bus to Sesquilé from the Portal del Norte bus terminal. From Sesquilé, you can take a local bus or taxi to Lake Guatavita. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Bogotá to Guatavita town and then take a local bus or taxi to the lake.