Tabio, Cundinamarca: El Zipa Hot Springs, Tourism & Places to Visit
The town of Tabio is the seat of the municipality of the same name, in Cundinamarca, 45 km from Bogotá.
Tabio was founded in 1603 and has tourist attractions perfect for a weekend visit.
The town has a population of about 25,100, was named a Green Municipality of Colombia and is part of the tourist routes of Cundinamarca.
It sits at 2,600 m above sea level, surrounded by mountains and beautiful scenery, and its old town has well-preserved colonial-style houses and buildings.
How to get to Tabio
From Bogotá, the distance to Tabio is 35 km, on a road in good condition. There are two options: 1) via the Autopista Norte (Bogotá–Tunja) and then the Cajicá–Chía and Cajicá–Tabio roads; 2) via the Autopista Norte toward Chía and, in that town, take Calle 21, then Calle 19 and finally the Tabio road. Travel time is similar either way, roughly 1 hour (see the map below).
You can also reach Tabio by public transport, with shared taxis, buses and vans.
Buses to Tabio
From Bogotá's Salitre terminal, the company Flota Águila runs several daily services. Information: 4280066 – 5707048 and (1) 410 89 71. Website: www.flotaaguilasa.com
Tourism in Tabio
Tabio is an ideal weekend destination. The town has accommodation such as hotels, hostels and guesthouses, along with restaurants and shops. Visitors can also explore the town's various attractions.
Places to visit in Tabio
Main Square
Tabio's main square stands out for its lovely greenery and beautiful trees. It is the heart of the town and the starting point for any visit. Around it rise the town's most important buildings, such as the town hall, the Inmaculada Concepción Church, the Casa de la Cultura and the Municipal Theater, while the nearby streets are lined with shops and restaurants. In the square you can see a sculpture carved by Mrs. Alicia Tafur, a kiosk and a stone basin carved in the shape of a clover. Three leafy rubber trees dating from the 19th century are also a highlight.
Town Hall
Tabio's town hall stands out for its architecture, facing the main square. It is a single-story building with wood finishes and a clay-tile roof.
Inmaculada Concepción Church
The Inmaculada Concepción Church faces the main square. Construction began in 1887 and took several decades. The church has Baroque features, with three naves whose entrances are framed by round arches, and a central tower.
Casa de la Cultura
The "Joaquín Piñeros Corpas" Casa de la Cultura sits diagonally across from the main square. The building was once a beautiful house with spacious rooms, an inner courtyard and halls. It now houses the Municipal Theater, the library, the Music Training School and the Senior and Youth Symphonic Band.
Santa Bárbara Chapel
The Santa Bárbara Hermitage is in the old town and was built in honor of the young Saint Barbara. The chapel was built in 1650 and is known for its altar carved in wood and covered in gold leaf, featuring images of Saint Francis, the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Barbara.
Lourdes Chapel
The Lourdes Chapel was built in 1884 as a tribute to Our Lady of Lourdes. Contributions from various members of the community were used to build this small temple.
Peña de Juaica
The Peña de Juaica, a prominent crag in the municipality, rises to 3,270 meters. You can explore it along trails and enjoy the area's beautiful scenery.
El Zipa hot springs
Without a doubt, the El Zipa hot springs are Tabio's main attraction. The thermal complex sits in a very appealing natural setting. The waters are said to help with ailments such as joint pain, muscle cramps, neuralgia, arthritis, varicose veins, rheumatism, eczema, respiratory conditions and nervous disorders.
The thermal complex has pools, jacuzzis, steam rooms and sports and recreation facilities.
Thermal pool hours:
Large Thermal Pool (Recreational)
Temperature: 32.5 °C / 90.5 °F
Wednesday to Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sundays and holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
If the week has a Monday holiday, the recreational pool opens on Thursday instead.
Small Thermal Pool (Medicinal)
Temperature: 35 °C / 95 °F
Friday and Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sundays and holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
If the week has a Monday holiday, the medicinal pool opens on Saturday instead.
Questions and information:
Phone: 3134037312 (from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday)
Hotels in Tabio
Hospedaje La Casona
Address: Cra 3 # 6-52, Tabio, Cundinamarca.
Phone: 3125221899 / 601 8647138
Website: hospedajelacasona.com
La Isabela Estancia Ecuestre
Phone: +57 316 8736742
Ecohostel La Campiña Suiza
Address: Finca Santa Catalina, Vereda Juaica, Tabio, Tenjo, Cundinamarca.
Phone: +57 323 7281651
Map of Tabio, Cundinamarca
Frequently asked questions about Tabio
In Cundinamarca, about 35–45 km from Bogotá, at 2,600 m above sea level. It is a colonial town surrounded by mountains, named a Green Municipality of Colombia.
From Bogotá (about 1 h) via the Autopista Norte through Chía and Cajicá. By public transport, the company Flota Águila runs daily services from the Salitre terminal.
Relax at the El Zipa hot springs, wander the colonial center and its church, enjoy the weekend food scene and the mountain landscapes of the Bogotá savanna.
A thermal spa with pools, Tabio's best-known attraction, ideal for a relaxing day near Bogotá. It is best to check the opening hours before you go.
Yes: its proximity, quiet colonial atmosphere and hot springs make it a classic weekend getaway on the Bogotá savanna.
Cold mountain climate, with mild days and cold nights; it is a good idea to bring a coat year-round.