Things To Do
in Bogotá
Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia, is a vibrant and sprawling metropolis blending modern skyscrapers with colonial architecture, nestled high in the Andes at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level. It serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country, boasting a diverse population that contributes to its rich tapestry of cultural institutions, museums, festivals, and gastronomic experiences.
With its cool climate, verdant parks, and the historic Candelaria district, Bogotá offers a unique blend of the past and present, making it a dynamic and compelling destination for visitors and residents alike.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Monserrate. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and a warm cup of Colombian coffee.
Head to La Candelaria, the historic district, and explore colorful streets and colonial architecture. Don’t miss the Botero Museum for an artistic touch.
Dine at a local restaurant and try ajiaco, a traditional Colombian soup. Take a leisurely walk around Plaza Bolivar to soak in the evening ambiance.
Visit the Gold Museum to discover Colombia's rich pre-Columbian history. The stunning gold artifacts will leave you fascinated.
Enjoy lunch at the nearby Santa Clara Church before heading to the National Museum. The museum offers insights into Colombian art and history.
Catch a show at Teatro Colón, one of the most beautiful theaters in the country. Afterward, savor dessert at a local café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene
- Extensive public transportation system, including the TransMilenio bus system
- Pleasant climate due to its elevation, with mild temperatures year-round
- Diverse culinary scene featuring both local and international cuisine
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- High altitude can cause altitude sickness for some visitors
- Traffic congestion can be a significant issue in the city
- Safety concerns, particularly in certain neighborhoods
- Pollution levels can be high, especially in downtown areas
- Economic disparities and noticeable poverty in some areas
Best Activities in Bogotá
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike up the iconic Monserrate mountain for stunning views of Bogotá.
Join the locals in taking advantage of the city's car-free streets on Sundays for a leisurely cycle around the city.
Experience the thrill of paragliding with a tandem flight from the nearby town of Sopo, just outside of Bogotá.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bogotá with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bogotá
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of Bogotá from its peak, accessible by funicular or cable car.
Another scenic spot offering fantastic views of the city, accessible by a short hike or taxi.
Tallest building in Bogotá with an observation deck providing 360-degree views of the city.
Food in Bogotá
Bogotá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, corn, and an herb called guascas. It is typically served with avocado and capers.
Must-Try!
A platter featuring rice, red beans, ground beef, chorizo, chicharrón, arepa, avocado, and a fried egg.
A whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices, commonly served at special occasions and festivals.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bogotá better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively marketplace offering an array of street food options, including empanadas, arepas, and grilled meats.
This market is a great place to explore local ingredients and sample authentic street foods like tamales and choclo con queso (corn with cheese).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bogotá, it is important to respect people's personal space and not to stand too close or touch others without their permission.
When addressing people in Bogotá, it is polite to use formal titles such as 'Señor' (Mr.) or 'Señora' (Mrs.) and to greet others with a handshake.
Punctuality is appreciated in Bogotá, so it is important to be on time for appointments and meetings as a sign of respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bogotá with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bogotá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Bogotá, Colombia, but it is common to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated, but not mandatory.
In Bogotá, Colombia, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you come across places that do not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bogotá.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for dry and warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing
Rainy season, with cooler temperatures and occasional thunderstorms. Great for exploring museums and indoor activities.
Bogotá at Night
Hiking in Bogotá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination with stunning views of Bogotá, Monserrate features a well-maintained trail leading to the summit where a church stands.
This national park offers a diverse range of trails through paramo ecosystems, scenic lakes, and rich biodiversity, ideal for more adventurous hikers.
A peaceful hiking spot that includes a trail alongside a creek, showcasing beautiful flora and fauna, perfect for family hikes.
This mountainous region offers various trails with breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and opportunities to spot unique wildlife.
Beyond the main Monserrate trail, there are lesser-known paths that lead to secluded areas with panoramic views of the capital.
The largest paramo ecosystem, it provides stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and multiple hiking routes, implementing a chance to explore unique wildlife.
Located near Bogotá, this spot features trails with varying difficulty levels and distinctly picturesque views from the summit.
This area offers several trails with beautiful panoramas of the city and surrounding mountains, perfect for both casual and seasoned hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bogotá through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bogotá by plane.
Main international airport serving Bogotá, Colombia, it is one of the busiest airports in Latin America.
Located in Rionegro, near Medellín, this airport serves international flights and is approximately 240 km from Bogotá.
Located in Palmira, near Cali, this airport is approximately 450 km from Bogotá and serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Santa Marta, this airport is around 600 km from Bogotá and serves various international flights.
Serving the city of Bucaramanga, located about 400 km from Bogotá, it handles both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Bogotá, consisting of people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
A significant demographic group characterized by people of European descent.
A community with African ancestry, representing a diverse cultural heritage.
Several Indigenous groups with historical ties to the region, although they make up a smaller percentage of the population.
Includes various immigrant communities and ethnic minorities such as Arabs, Italians, and others.
The Soul of Bogotá
Discover the essence of Bogotá through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bogotá, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base. The city is home to major teams such as Millonarios and Santa Fe, and matches often draw large crowds.
Bogotá is known for its extensive network of bike lanes and offers various cycling events. The city hosts 'Ciclovía' every Sunday, when streets are closed to cars, allowing people to cycle, walk, and jog.
Basketball has a strong following in Bogotá, with local leagues and teams competing at various levels. The sport is popular among youth and is played in schools and community centers.
Tennis is a widely played sport in Bogotá, with several clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive players. The city has produced notable Colombian tennis players.
Volleyball is popular in Bogotá, with many schools and community centers offering programs. The city regularly hosts tournaments, and both indoor and beach volleyball are played.
Athletics is a favored sport in Bogotá, with many running events and competitions throughout the year. The city's altitude provides a unique training advantage for long-distance runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bogotá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bogotá offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly in the bohemian La Macarena neighborhood.
While it may require some research, Bogotá caters to gluten-free diners with various restaurants offering gluten-free menus or dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bogotá with these cultural adventures.
