Catedral de Sal in Zipaquirá expands sustainable tourism model

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is strengthening its commitment to sustainable tourism by integrating conservation, social responsibility and economic development. Through the program “Catedral de Sal protege, sostiene y renueva,” the site seeks to protect the underground heritage while accommodating hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Manager Yenny Páez Sabogal notes the ongoing challenge of balancing high tourist demand with the preservation of the unique subterranean environment.

Beyond the cathedral, Zipaquirá promotes a range of attractions—including bird‑watching, long‑distance cycling routes, a museum honoring Gabriel García Márquez, and the Casa Museo Guillermo Zornoza—while highlighting local cuisine such as overbarriga and papas salmueras. These complementary offerings aim to diversify the visitor experience and generate broader economic benefits for the municipality’s hospitality, transport, and food sectors.