Bogotá - Discovering Colombia

Travelling to Bogotá

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bogotá, a pretty good destination in Colombia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bogotá and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bogotá, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Colombia, here's everything to know about Bogotá for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bogotá

Bogotá is the capital city of Colombia, located in the central region of the country at an altitude of 2,640 meters above the sea level. With a population of almost 8 million people, Bogotá is the largest and most populous city in Colombia. The city is famous for its rich history and culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful colonial architecture. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife, museums, art galleries, and green areas such as the famous Simon Bolivar Park. Additionally, the city is the economic and cultural center of the country, and it has a diverse range of industries including manufacturing, finance, and technology.

What to visit in Bogotá

1. La Candelaria: La Candelaria is the historic center of Bogotá and one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. The neighborhood is known for its colorful architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, stunning colonial-era buildings, picturesque public squares, and great selection of museums, galleries, restaurants, and shops.
2. Mt. Monserrate: Monserrate is one of the most popular destinations in Bogotá, standing tall at an altitude of 3,152 meters above sea level. Visitors can ride the funicular or take the hiking trail to the top and enjoy stunning views of the city. There is a church and several restaurants at the peak.
3. Museo del Oro: The Gold Museum is located in La Candelaria and has an extensive collection of gold and pre-Columbian artifacts from the indigenous cultures of Colombia. The museum is renowned for its valuable exhibits and is a top destination in South America.
4. Plaza de Bolívar: Plaza de Bolívar is Bogotá's main square, situated in the heart of the city. The square is home to several significant buildings like the Palace of Justice, the National Cathedral, the National Capitol, and other administrative offices.
5. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira: The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is one of Colombia's most notable landmarks, located just outside of Bogotá. The cathedral is carved out of an active salt mine and features underground chapels with stunning light and sound displays.
6. Botero Museum: The Botero Museum is located in La Candelaria and is home to a lovely collection of artwork by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The museum is famous for its oil paintings and sculptures, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon browsing the exhibits.
7. Parque de la 93: Parque de la 93 is a trendy neighborhood around a large park, that has terrific dining, nightlife, shopping, and entertainment.
8. Zona Rosa: Located to the north of the city, Zona Rosa is a trendy district with numerous clubs, bars, and restaurants. This area is popular with both locals and tourists.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Colombia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bogotá.

When to go on holiday to Bogotá

The best time to visit Bogotá is during the dry season, which runs from December to March and July to August. During these months, the temperatures are mild, and there is very little rainfall, making it the perfect time to explore the city and its surrounding areas. However, keep in mind that Bogotá has a relatively cool climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 8-20°C (46-68°F), so make sure to bring warm clothes regardless of the time of year.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bogotá

There are several ways to get to Bogotá, Colombia: 1. By air: Bogotá's El Dorado International Airport is one of the largest airports in South America, with direct flights from many international cities. You can search for flights on websites such as Expedia, Kayak or Skyscanner.
2. By land: If you're already in Colombia, you can take a bus or drive to Bogotá from other cities. Several bus companies operate routes to Bogotá from different parts of the country.
3. By train: Currently, there is no functional train system in Colombia that connects Bogotá with other cities.
It's important to note that as of 2021, travel restrictions and entry requirements may apply due to COVID-19. It's essential to check with local authorities and airlines before planning a trip to Bogotá or any other destination.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bogotá, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bogotá

Here are some typical foods of Bogotá, Colombia with a brief description: 1. Ajiaco - A hearty and creamy soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, corn, and guasca (a herb).
2. Bandeja Paisa - A platter of delicious Colombia-style comfort food consisting of beans, rice, plantains, chicharrón (fried pork belly), avocado, and more.
3. Tamal - A steamed corn cake filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables, and wrapped in a banana leaf.
4. Empanadas - Fried or baked turnovers filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese.
5. Changua - A breakfast soup made with milk, eggs, and onions, sometimes served with bread.
6. Frijoles Antioqueños - A side dish of beans, usually black or pintos, simmered with onions, tomatoes, and pork.
7. Arepa - A round or flat corn cake, sometimes split open and stuffed with cheese, meat, or eggs.
8. Lechona - A whole stuffed pig roasted over an open fire for hours, usually served with rice and beans.
9. Chicha - A traditional fermented non-alcoholic beverage made from maize, sugar, and sometimes fruits. These are just some of the delicious foods that you can find in Bogotá, Colombia. Bon appetit!
You can find general info about typical foods in Colombia here.

Is Bogotá an expensive destination for tourists?

Bogotá can be considered a bit expensive compared to other cities in Colombia, but it's still an affordable destination for most travelers. The cost of your trip will depend on your travel style and the activities you plan to do, but in general, you can expect to pay more for accommodations, meals, and transportation compared to other popular tourist destinations in the country. However, you can still find budget-friendly options for all these items, especially if you do a little research and planning ahead of time.

Where to find accomodation in Bogotá

It is recommended to find accommodation in the following areas to visit Bogotá, Colombia: 1. La Candelaria - This is the historic center of Bogotá and a popular area for tourists. It has many attractions such as museums, colonial-style architecture, street art, and restaurants.
2. Zona Rosa and Parque 93 - These are upscale areas with shopping centers, trendy restaurants, and bars. It is also a good area to access popular parks such as the Parque 93 and the Parque Virrey.
3. Chapinero - This is a neighborhood that attracts both locals and foreigners. It has many budget-friendly and mid-range hotels and is conveniently located near transportation hubs and many restaurants.
4. Usaquén - This is a residential neighborhood that has a small-town feel with cobblestone streets, cafes, and restaurants. It's an excellent place to stay if you want to be away from the city bustle but still have access to the major tourist attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Bogotá here:
Booking.com

Is Bogotá a safe destination for tourists?

Bogotá is generally considered a safe and welcoming city for tourists. However, as with any major city, there are certain areas that can be more dangerous than others, and it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. For example, it's generally recommended that tourists avoid certain neighborhoods such as Ciudad Bolívar, Usme, San Cristobal, and Bosa. Additionally, it's a good idea to avoid traveling alone at night, and to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Overall, though, Bogotá is a vibrant and exciting city to visit, with lots of cultural attractions, great food, and plenty to see and do. Just be sure to exercise caution and common sense, and you should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Colombia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bogotá.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bogotá the most?

Bogotá, Colombia is a destination that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of travelers, including couples, young people, families and solo travelers. Couples will enjoy the city's romantic atmosphere and historical sites such as La Candelaria, a charming colonial district with colorful houses and cobblestone streets, as well as the impressive views from Monserrate Hill. Young people will be drawn to the city's vibrant nightlife scene, which includes a variety of bars and clubs, as well as its flourishing street art scene. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in trendy neighborhoods like Usaquén and Chapinero.
Families will enjoy exploring Bogotá's many museums, cultural attractions, and parks like Simón Bolívar Park, which is home to many playgrounds, sports facilities, and even a zoo. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the city that serve traditional Colombian cuisine as well as international options. Overall, Bogotá offers something for everyone, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Bogotá

In Bogotá, you can move around by various means of transportation such as the TransMilenio bus system, traditional buses, taxis, and ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Cabify. There is also a bike-sharing service called Bogotá Bike that you can use to explore the city on two wheels. Additionally, Bogotá has a network of bike lanes and a public bike parking system that makes cycling a popular option for short distances.

What to see around Bogotá

Of course, here are some suggestions for day trips from Bogotá: 1. Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral: This stunning underground salt cathedral is located just one hour from Bogotá and is a popular tourist attraction. It's a unique architectural masterpiece that combines the natural beauty of the salt with intricate design.
2. Laguna de Guatavita: This sacred lake is located about two hours from Bogotá and is famous for its association with the El Dorado legend. The lake is surrounded by stunning scenery, and you can also check out the town of Guatavita when you are there.
3. Villa de Leyva: This charming colonial town is located three hours from Bogotá and is known for its historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Villa de Leyva is a popular destination for a day trip from Bogotá due to its proximity and picturesque landscape.
4. Chingaza National Park: If you love nature, then Chingaza National Park is a great day trip from Bogotá. The park is home to various wildlife, stunning mountain views, and numerous hiking trails.
5. La Calera: This small town is located just 30 minutes from Bogotá and is a popular destination for traditional Colombian food. You can also enjoy spectacular views of the city from here.
For every travel information about Colombia you can click here.

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