Zapata began his career with Millonarios, making his debut in the Colombian top flight during the 2001 season. Since making his debut with Millonarios, Zapata was a regular starter at left back and was known primarily for his speed. During the 2004 season he was sent on loan to Deportivo Cali and had an extraordinary season before returning to Millonarios. He is nicknamed "El Morumbí", for his goal in a Copa Sudamericana 2007 match played in São Paulo, Brasil against São Paulo FC which gave Millonarios an unprecedented victory.
In 2008, he left his longtime club and signed with Deportivo Pereira.[1] He remained at the club for six months and appeared in 13 matches during that time. For the second half of the 2009 season Zapata joined América de Cali. He only remained at the club for six months as he and sixteen other players were let go at the end of the season.[2]
In July 2010 Zapata signed with Venezuelan club Caracas F.C.[3] After one season in Venezuela Zapata signed with Wilstermann of Bolivia for the clubs Copa Libertadores campaign.[4] While with Wilstermann he appeared in two Copa matches. After a brief stay in Bolivia the Colombian defender signed with Deportivo Pasto. In his first year at the club he helped Pasto in capturing the Primera B title and gain promotion to the Liga Postobón.[5][6]
