Another road trip I took is a two-hour drive, although located only 50 kms north of Bogotá, to the historic town of Zipaquirá. Zipaquirá  is noted for its salt mines and produces 40% of the country’s resources. The city has a population of 100,000 and is situated at an elevation of 2,650 metres.

In the mountains of Zipaquirá , there is an impressive underground Catholic cathedral carved out of salt. The 75 m long mine can accommodate 8,400 people and is situated 185 metres below ground. The surreal Salt Cathedral comes complete with the Stations of the Cross and three stunning cavernous naves. In spite of the fact that it is slowly turning into a commercialized “theme park” (with a light show, emerald bazaars and coffee shops) it is still an imposing feat and definitely worth a visit.