Zipaquirá

Nestled between the green rises of the Cundinamarca hills, the little colonial centre of Zipaquirá is a postcard-perfect example of a traditional Latin American town. It’s a great day trip away from the big city vibes of Bogota, with its sun-kissed cobblestone plaza and clutch of vibrant cantinas. The central square still houses the colonial edifice of the old Salinas management building that was once the epicentre of the region's great boom industry: salt mining. Cue the cavernous tunnels that pierce into the earth on the south-western edge of the town. Here, the old working tunnels of the Zipaquirá salt miners have been transformed into a monumental piece of religious art, chronicling Jesus's route up Golgotha and culminating in a grand cathedral that’s highlighted with a giant cross, all carved entirely out of mineral stone. Once you're done underground, also be sure to ask your Zipaquirá tour guide about the fascinating salt museum and smaller salt mine in the neighbouring town of Nemocon, before heading back in time to hang around for the nightlife in town– it's rambunctious and enticingly local…