Things To Do
in Fontibón

Fontibón is a vibrant locality in the southwest of Bogotá, Colombia, known for its rich history and cultural significance. Once an independent municipality, it has now become a lively neighborhood filled with parks, historical sites, and a friendly local atmosphere. The area is characterized by a mix of urban development and green spaces, making it a pleasant place for residents and visitors alike.

Fontibón is also well-connected to the rest of Bogotá, offering easy access to the capital's attractions while maintaining its unique charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Visit the historic Iglesia de Fontibón, a beautiful colonial church that dates back to the 16th century.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local eatery and then explore the Parque El Tunal, a large park with walking trails, playgrounds, and green spaces.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Colombian restaurant and then take a stroll through the lively streets of Fontibón.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the nearby Parque de los Novios, known for its serene gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to sample street food and regional specialties, then visit the Museo de los Niños for a fun and interactive experience.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a night out at a bar or live music venue, experiencing the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5 - $10
Coffee$1 - $3
🍺Beer$2 - $4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30 - $70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Limited English-speaking locals
  • Can be crowded in popular areas
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Fontibón

Visit one of these nice places.

Iglesia de Fontibón

This historic church provides a beautiful backdrop for photographs, showcasing colonial architecture.

Parque El Tunal

With its lush greenery and scenic walking paths, this park is perfect for capturing nature shots.

Parque de los Novios

A picturesque park featuring lakes and gardens, ideal for stunning landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fontibón

Fontibón is a culinary delight, offering a range of traditional Colombian dishes and local flavors that reflect the region's cultural heritage.

Fontibón Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ajiaco

A hearty soup made with chicken, potatoes, and corn, served with avocado and capers.

Must-Try!

Bandeja Paisa

A traditional platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, plantains, and avocado.

Tamales

Corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Fontibón

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and a variety of local street food.

Street Vendors

Throughout Fontibón, you can find vendors selling empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fontibón enjoys a temperate climate with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) throughout the year. Rain is common from April to November, while the dry season from December to March sees more sunshine. Nights can be cool, so it's advisable to carry a light jacket. The region's elevation at around 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) contributes to its mild weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek is customary when greeting locals.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain an appropriate distance during conversations, as personal space is valued.

Dress Code

Dress neatly and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or formal establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fontibón is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuables in public and use reputable transportation options. It's advisable to travel in groups, especially at night, and to stick to well-lit areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 123.

Tipping in Fontibón

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is useful for small purchases and street food.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (April - November)

Expect frequent rain, so pack waterproof clothing and an umbrella.

Dry Season (December - March)

Enjoy sunny weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Holidays

Experience vibrant local festivities, especially during major holidays like Christmas and Independence Day.

Cool Weather (June - August)

Temperatures are cooler, making it ideal for light jackets during the evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Fontibón at Night

Fontibón offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Local bars often feature traditional Colombian music, making for a vibrant atmosphere. Popular spots include lounges with rooftop views and dance clubs where visitors can enjoy salsa and reggaeton. The nightlife typically starts late, with locals gathering around 10 PM, so be prepared for a late night out.

Hiking in Fontibón

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Calera Trail

Located about 30 minutes from Fontibón, this trail offers stunning views of Bogotá and the surrounding mountains.

Cerro de Monserrate

A popular hiking destination that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city, accessible via a well-marked trail.

Airports

How to reach Fontibón by plane.

El Dorado International Airport

Located approximately 5 km from Fontibón, this is the main airport serving Bogotá and offers both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fontibón is fairly walkable, with many neighborhoods featuring sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Parks and public squares are accessible, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. However, some streets may be busier, so it's advisable to remain vigilant while walking, especially near main roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Working-Class Families

Fontibón is home to many working-class families, contributing to the vibrant community atmosphere.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Fontibón for its affordability and proximity to Bogotá.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A highly popular sport in Colombia, with many local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

With its varied terrain, cycling is a favored sport, and many locals enjoy biking through parks and designated paths.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fontibón can be heavy, especially during rush hours due to the area's proximity to Bogotá. Public transportation options include buses and TransMilenio, a bus rapid transit system that connects Fontibón to other parts of the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fontibón.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but be sure to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, some places can accommodate dietary needs upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Fontibón is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. The quality of care is generally good, with some facilities offering specialized services. In case of emergencies, hospitals are equipped to handle various medical situations, and it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health-related expenses.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide