Tips and Things to Do in Colombia’s Capital

Tips and Things to Do in Colombia’s Capital

09/07/2022 0 By admin

Bogotá, Colombia travel guide in 2022

This Bogotá travel guide covers everything you need to know
when visiting Colombia’s capital. This includes what to see and do, how to get there,
where to stay, and what to eat in Bogotá, Colombia.

This city will take your breath away. Not only because Bogotá has so many stunning sights and attractions, but because it’s a high-altitude capital situated at almost 9,000 feet elevation. It will take your breath away in more than one way.

There are countless reasons to visit the gritty and beautiful city of Bogotá, and I’ll do my best to touch on all of them in this travel guide. If you’re planning a Bogota trip in 2022 (and beyond), keep reading and prepare to be amazed!

Bogotá is the vibrant, high-altitude capital of Colombia. It’s home to 8 million people, making it one of the largest cities in all of the Americas.
Bogotá is the vibrant, high-altitude capital of Colombia. It’s home to 8 million people, making it one of the largest cities in all of the Americas.

Before delving into my Bogotá, Colombia travel guide, here are my first impressions of the city.

Arriving
in Bogotá, Colombia

Lightning strikes in the distance. It’s late at night, so it’s hard to tell if the silhouette outside my window is a mountain range or clouds. Turns out it’s the Andes Mountains; something I heard so much about in my geography classes growing up. It’s surreal to finally be here.

We begin
making our initial descent towards a sprawling capital city tucked between these
mountains. The skyline appears to be endless, even from so high in the air. It’s
striking that 8 million people call this city their home. It’s nearly the size
of New York City, but you wouldn’t know it unless you’re looking down from a
plane or the surrounding mountains.

Moments
later, our graceful descent turns into a nosedive, as if we’d graze a mountain otherwise.
After what seems like an eternity of turbulence, we gently roll onto the runway.
Welcome to Bogotá, Colombia.

 El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá is the second busiest airport in South America after São Paulo.
El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá is the second busiest airport in South America after São Paulo.

A city
and country healing from a turbulent past

This turbulence-turned-calm reminded me of the stories my Colombian friends had told me about their country and its tumultuous past. For over five decades, Colombia was engulfed in a brutal civil war between government forces and rebel groups. Though most of the guerrilla warfare occurred in the countryside, cities like Bogotá were not off limits. People living here had to always be on guard and even avoid certain places altogether. Thankfully, a ceasefire was signed in 2016, which has all but ended the conflict. What hasn’t ended, however, are outdated perceptions of Colombia being a dangerous place to visit.

In 2022, Bogotá is safe for tourism. There are good parts and not so good parts, just like every other city in the world. Therefore, it’s wise to exercise caution as you would in a big city like LA or NYC. Later in this Bogotá travel guide, I’ll provide some helpful tips to help you stay vigilant to ensure a safe stay! In addition, if you are curious about Bogota trip information relating to COVID-19, refer to the last section of this article.

The city and
country are undergoing a current-day renaissance. People here are proud of their
society’s cultural achievements, past and present, that make Colombia so
unique and diverse. Bogotá is a success story in urban transformation; a
place where innovation is steadily on the rise while its colonial heritage is
remarkably well preserved.

Bogotá has come a long way in the few short years since the civil war. It’s much safer for tourists now, but you’ll still want to be aware of your surroundings.
Bogotá has come a long way in the few short years since the civil war. It’s much safer for tourists now, but you’ll still want to be aware of your surroundings.

Why you should visit Bogotá, Colombia in 2022

Bogotá is a cultural, commercial, and historic hub, and a great place to begin your adventure in Colombia. Here are some reasons you should visit. Vamos!

Fascinating
contrasts

Bogotá offers an interesting mix of historic and modern attractions, including more than 50 museums. In the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum), you’ll find some interesting artifacts dating back to pre-Colombian times. Just around the corner in the La Candelaria district, you’ll see much of the city’s Spanish colonial architecture. As you walk down cobbled streets, brushing up against marvelous 18th-century churches, you’ll catch a glimpse of Bogotá’s urban sophistication with skyscrapers looming above.

In addition
to the city’s blend of old and new, there are other contrasts at play in Bogotá.
Vibrant, graffiti-lined streets crisscross centuries-old squares. Crumbling façades
and shops straddle the city’s (and perhaps Latin America’s) most affluent
neighborhoods. And beyond the concrete jungle of Bogotá, there’s also a montage
of mountains towering overhead.

Friendly
people

Colombians are super friendly. Sure, that’s a generalization, but I’ve found truth in it based on my interactions with Colombians here and abroad. Kind, passionate, and open-minded are a few adjectives I’d use to describe the people I met in Bogotá. They are keen to meet international visitors who take a genuine interest in learning about their country and customs.

Delicious
cuisine

As the capital and multicultural mecca of the country, Bogotá is a place foodies won’t want to miss. Colombia’s diverse climates lend themselves to an eclectic mix of fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re into street food or fine dining, you’ll find plenty of local delicacies in Bogotá. Towards the end of this Bogotá travel guide, I’ll dive more into the specific foods and drinks you need to try.

Cheap prices

For all the cool experiences that Bogotá has to offer, I was pleasantly surprised by the low price tags associated with them. Hotels, meals, transportation, and attractions can all be done on the cheap, which is great news for budget backpackers and luxury travelers looking to save a buck (or peso). I’ll get more into the travel costs of Bogotá, Colombia later in this guide.

Bogotá is
not that touristy (really!)

Bogotá has 8 million people, so it’s not
fair to say there aren’t any crowds. However, for a bustling city with so many
people, I was surprised to see few tourists here.

In fact, when I visited the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen—one of the top sights and most iconic churches in the city— there were some moments when there wasn’t another soul in the building.

 Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen
Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen

Even in the Plaza de Bolívar, Bogotá’s main square, there was plenty of breathing and elbow room. Well, except for all the pigeons that congregated there.

Bogota travel guide: There were infinitely more pigeons than people in the Plaza de Bolívar.
There were infinitely more pigeons than people in the Plaza de Bolívar.

Getting
to Bogotá

The best way
to get to Bogotá, both internationally and domestically, is by plane. From
the U.S., there are several airlines with non-stop service flights to Bogotá,
including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Spirit,
and United Airlines. Some Latin American airlines with service to Bogotá
include Avianca, Copa, and LATAM.

Both international and domestic flights will land at El Dorado International Airport (BOG), which is just 9 miles (15 km) from the city center. From there, you’ll have several options to get into the city, including an airport shuttle, public bus, taxi, private car, or rental car.

If you’re pressed for time, I recommend doing a taxi, as it’s fairly cheap and will get you into the city the fastest. Just be sure to download the Cabify app to ensure you are taking a taxi that is safe.

However, an airport shuttle is the most cost-effective way to travel to Bogotá from the airport. The free airport shuttle leaves every 20 minutes from 5am-11pm. This will take you to the El Dorado Station, where you can take a public bus to get into the city. A one-way fare on the TransMilenio bus only costs COP 1,800 (or about $0.56).

I’ll delve
more into the different transportation options in the “Getting around Bogotá”
section below.

(For more info on how to discover good flight deals to Bogotá, check out these travel hacks for flying.)

Getting
around Bogotá

There are
several ways to get around Bogotá. Here are the most reliable ways to do
so.

Bogotá by
bus

With a population
of 8 million people, you’d expect Bogotá to have a subway system. Surprisingly,
it does not (though it’s projected to be built by 2024).

However, the bus system is so extensive that it fills the void with 2,000 buses, 12 lines, and 71 miles (114 km) of routes. It’s very economical and brings you pretty much everywhere in the city. Refer to the official TransMilenio website for the most up-to-date routes and fares.

Bogotá by
taxi

Taxis are a very reliable and cheap way to get around Bogotá. In order to not get ripped off, always look at the sticker on the taxi which shows the day/nighttime fares. Also, you should ask the driver to switch on the meters if they haven’t already done so. For safety purposes, I recommend downloading the Cabify app (previously called Easy Taxi and Tappsi). Bottom line: taxis will seamlessly bring you where you need to be, without breaking the bank.

Uber (don’t
do it)

When I arrived in Bogotá, I instinctively turned on my Uber app to find a ride into town. The app works perfectly and the rates are cheaper than taxis, but it turns out that Uber is actually illegal in Colombia. I read online forums where people got interrogated by police for taking them, so in my opinion, it’s not worth the risk to save just a couple of dollars. However, it is generally cheap and safe (many people ride Ubers in Colombia), so if you plan to do so, just be careful.

Renting a
car

I love driving places on my own, but I wouldn’t recommend renting a car in Bogotá. With so many people commuting here, the roads are very congested and the traffic will probably drive you crazy. Plus, parking can be a major issue downtown. I would stick to public transportation and taxis to get around the city.

Bogotá by
bike

Bogotá has many bike paths covering the city (186 miles/300km, to be exact). If you’re staying in the northern part of the city, which is more suburban and less congested, renting bikes is a great idea. If you’re staying downtown, or somewhere in the historic center of the city, then you’ll find that there’s a lot of traffic and it’s probably not worth renting bikes. Bogota Bike Tours has the best reputation for bike rentals and tours.

Once you’re
in La Candelaria, the best way to see and experience the city is by
walking.

I’m going to let you in on a little secret to help you never get lost in Bogotá… No matter where you are in the city, you can use the mountains just east of the skyline as a reference point. The Andes Mountains, particularly Monserrate, absolutely tower over the city. They’re a great way to find your bearings in Bogotá, without having to use Google Maps or other travels. (Check out my favorite travel apps here.)

The mountains are a helpful navigation tool to get around Bogotá.
The mountains just east of the city are a helpful navigation tool to get around Bogotá.

Top
things to see and do in Bogotá, Colombia

Now that we’ve covered the reasons you should visit Bogotá, let’s jump to the cool things to see and do. This city is quickly becoming one of the most interesting and culturally diverse places in South America. Here are what I believe are the 8 top things to do in Bogotá, Colombia.

1. Explore
Bogotá on a free walking tour

Free walking
tours are my favorite way to get acquainted with a new city. I’ve done many of
these tours across Europe
and found them to a reliable, budget-friendly way to familiarize myself with a
new place. Similarly, my free walking tour in Bogotá did not disappoint!

Of course, nothing
in life is actually “free”, so you’re encouraged to give a tip between $7-10 (22,000-32,000
Colombian Pesos). Typically, the guides are university students and young
adults who rely on these tips to help pay for school or rent.

When I was doing my research of free walking tours, I saw there were several organizations posing as the original “Free Walking Tour Bogotá.” As such, be sure to do the 3-hour tour led by Beyond Colombia. They meet in front of the Museo de Oro everyday at 10am and 2pm. During this tour, you’ll learn a lot about Bogotá’s culture, including the history, architecture, top sights, and food scene.

This walking
tour covered much of La Candelaria, the historic heart of the city. Afterwards,
I felt very comfortable getting around Bogotá and well-versed in many of
the local spots. Highly recommend!

After all the walking, it was nice to sit down and enjoy the street art for a bit.
After all the walking, it was nice to sit down and enjoy the street art for a bit.

2. Dig
for gold inside the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum)

Well, you
can’t actually dig for gold here…but you can surely look at the gold and “dig
it”!

Located in
the heart of Bogotá, the Gold Museum contains 30,000 gold
artifacts dating back to pre-Colombian times. There are also thousands of other
metal alloys and materials from pre-Hispanic culture, including ceramics,
textiles, and pottery.

The Gold
Museum
has the biggest collection of gold artifacts in the world. It’s also
one of the top tourist attractions in all of Colombia, so you definitely
need to check it out! An hour is only enough to see the highlights, so I
recommend giving yourself about 2 hours to see most of the exhibits.

The Gold Museum is home to a collection of ancient artifacts that sheds light on how pre-Colombian societies lived. It's one of the top things to do in this Bogotá travel guide.
The Gold Museum is home to a collection of ancient artifacts that sheds light on how pre-Colombian societies lived. It’s one of the top things to do in this Bogotá travel guide.

3. Discover
Bogotá’s historic center (La Candelaria)

While the Gold
Museum
has a lot of artifacts from pre-Colombian times, the historic center
of town, La Candelaria, is an open-air museum that brings you back to
the colonial era.

This historic
neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most remarkable architecture. You’ll
find beautiful churches, restaurants, shops, and museums dotted around a
massive, Spanish-style square called the Plaza Bolívar. A colossal
cathedral, called the Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá, proudly watches
over the square.

Another highlight
of La Candelaria are its colorful, graffiti-lined streets. In recent years,
this area has become a popular place for street artists, as well as museum and
theatre-goers. The vibrant murals match well with the cobbled, colonial-era paths.

La
Candelaria
is a
go-to for backpackers and those wishing to stay in the center of all the action.
This area can become sketchy at night, so be sure to always stay on your guard
and beware of pickpocketers.

Bogota, Colombia Travel Guide: La Candelaria is known for its interesting mix of colonial architecture and modern street art.
La Candelaria is known for its interesting mix of colonial architecture and modern street art.

4. Soak
in the old world charm of the Plaza de Bolívar

While you’re
exploring La Candelaria, you’ll definitely want to soak in the old world
charm of the Plaza de Bolívar.

This enchanting
square is named after Simón Bolívar, the revolutionary leader who led
Colombia’s secession from the Spanish Empire in the early 1800s. Known as El
Libertador
(the liberator), Simón Bolívar was also an instrumental leader
in the independence movements for Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and
Panama.

Built
between 1807-1823, the Catedral Primada de Bogotá (Primatial Cathedral
of Bogotá) dominates the square. While this enormous, neoclassical-style
cathedral steals most of the limelight, the Palacio de Justicia (Palace
of Justice) that sits nearby is also spectacular.

What really
captured my attention was a phrase inscribed on the Palace of Justice by
Simón Bolívar’s right-hand man, General Francisco de Paula Santander:

“Colombianos las armas os han dado la independencia, las leyes os darán la libertad.”

“Colombians, guns have given you independence, laws will give you freedom.”

This quote really moved me, shedding light on the strife that consumed this country for so long. It harkens back to the days of civil war and hardship endured by millions of Colombians.

The Plaza de Bolívar is also the site of the Capitolio Nacional, a neoclassical building that houses Colombia’s Congress. On the other side of the plaza is another neoclassical façade, the Palacio Liévano, where the mayor sits.

Whether you’re into history, culture, or architecture, the Plaza de Bolívar is a must-see on this Bogotá, Colombia travel guide.

Today, tourists, street sellers, and pigeons flock to the Plaza de Bolívar, where its colonial-era architecture brings a European flair to the Colombian capital.
Today, tourists, street sellers, and pigeons flock to the Plaza de Bolívar, where its colonial-era architecture brings a European flair to the Colombian capital.

5. Relax
in the Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar (Simón Bolívar Park)

While we’re
on the topic of Simón Bolívar, be sure to check out the park that’s
named after him.

Simón Bolívar
Park
is the
Central Park
of Bogotá. Though it’s more than 100 acres larger than its
counterpart in NYC.

This urban park is filled with lakes and greenspaces, bike and walking paths, and a host of recreational facilities. There’s even an amusement park and water park inside. Simón Bolívar Park is also a popular place for picnics, live entertainment, and sports. As you can imagine, it can be pretty crowded on the weekends. Nevertheless, it’s a scenic escape from the city where you’ll want to stop by and hang out for a bit.

6. Take a
funicular to the top of Monserrate

Cerro Monserrate is a hilltop sanctuary with panoramic
views of Bogotá. This was my favorite sight in the city, and I’d
consider it a must-see sight for all travelers. You can take a funicular, cable
car, or hike to the top. I took the funicular and recommend that you do the same!

At the top, you’ll find a Catholic shrine and sanctuary built in the mid-1600s. The chapel was dedicated to the Virgen of Montserrat, named after the clifftop monastery just outside of Barcelona. (Check out my 3-day Barcelona travel guide)

There’s also a few restaurants and a mini bazaar at the top. You can purchase handmade goods and local foods, such as Colombian hot chocolate (a sweet chocolate treat mixed with cheese) and empanadas. Note: the best Colombian coffee is exported, so you won’t find great coffee here if you’re used to drinking imported Colombian coffee.

As you gaze
over the hill’s western ledge, you’ll have spectacular views of Bogotá’s
seemingly endless skyline. On the other side, forest and nature galore. When
you’re standing at the top of Monserrate (elevation: 10,341 ft / 3,152 m),
you’ll know why this is a sacred pilgrimage site for many.

Travel guide tip: Monserrate is a must-see attraction in Bogota, Colombia.
A tree fell on the path of the funicular, so we had to hike down. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as the views walking down were stunning!

Monserrate is a must on a Bogota travel itinerary

Tips: You’ll want to get up here in the morning
to avoid the crowds. The entire ordeal to and from downtown Bogotá will
take about half a day. It can get chilly up there, so be sure to bring a
jacket.

A return fare on the funicular and cable car costs 20,000 Colombian Pesos (~$6.31). I recommend checking the official Monserrate website for the most up-to-date rates and hours.

7. Spark
your imagination in the Museo de Botero (Botero Museum)

The Museo Botero (Botero Museum) is another must-see in the heart of Bogotá.

Fernando
Botero
is a
Colombian artist known for his “voluminous” artwork, where he changes the
proportions of people and objects. As such, you’ll find many peculiar paintings
and sculptures in the museum. Inside, you’ll also spot a small collection of Picasso,
Monet, and Renoir.

The Botero Museum is one of the top things to do in Bogotá, Colombia
Fernando Botero is known for his “remakes” of classic masterpieces. His depiction of the Mona Lisa is perhaps his most famous work.

This free museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 9am to 7pm. On Sundays, it closes at 5pm. Refer to the museum’s official website for the most up-to-date hours. I also recommend getting an audio guide to understand the context behind each of Botero’s works of art.

Inside the Botero Museum, you’ll find this garden that looks like it belongs in a palace.
Inside the Botero Museum, you’ll find this garden that looks like it belongs in a palace. This museum is one of the top things to see and do in Bogotá, Colombia.

8. Take a
day trip to a nearby village or nature spot

If you’re
planning to spend more than a few days in Bogotá, I recommend doing some
cool day trips. Here are some of the best day trip ideas you should know about.

The Salt
Cathedral

Just an hour outside of Bogotá, the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá is an underground church in a salt mine. It’s located 600 feet (200 m) beneath the Earth’s surface, and is a popular tourist and pilgrimage site.

Lake
Guatavita

If you’re
looking for a quiet nature retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, look
no further than Lake Guatavita. It’s about 40 miles (60 km) north of Bogotá,
and is acclaimed as the legendary birthplace of the “lost city of gold,” El
Dorado
. This lake is also a sacred site for the indigenous people of the
region.

La Chorrera
Waterfall

Another day
trip worth mentioning is La Chorrera, Colombia’s highest waterfall. This
multi-step waterfall measures more than 1,900 feet high (590 meters), and is
accessible by hiking through stunning forest scenery. It’s a 2-hour drive from Bogotá,
so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to and from.

Other
sights to check out in Bogotá if you have time

If time
permits, you should stop by these other interesting sights in Bogotá.

The National
Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen

This Gothic
church is a must-see in the heart of La Candelaria. Built in 1938, the National
Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen
is an eccentric church. It almost looks like a
giant candy cane.

National
Museum of Colombia

This prison-turned-museum
holds a massive collection of modern art and ancient artifacts from Colombia.
You’ll find pictures, paintings, sculptures, and other relics that shed light
on the country’s fascinating history.

Plaza de
Mercado de Paloquemao

This South
American-style market is brimming with character and ambiance. There are lots
of unique flowers, fruits, and local produce sold here.

Bogotá Botanical
Garden

The Jardin
Botanico de Bogotá
is Colombia’s largest botanical garden. It’s a great
place for a stroll, where you can see more than 5,000 endemic orchids and other
flora from other parts of the country.

Where to stay in Bogotá, Colombia

Travel to Bogota Colombia and prepare to be amazed by the amazing accommodations throughout the city!

Though Bogotá has all but eliminated its reputation for being a dangerous city, there are still some areas you’ll want to avoid.

In this travel guide, I’ve included many of the best places to stay in Bogotá. As a rule of thumb, budget backpackers will want to stay in La Candelaria, partygoers in Zona Rosa and Chapinero, and families and “typical” tourists in El Chicó.

La
Candelaria

As mentioned
earlier, La Candelaria is the historic center of town with most of the
tourist sites. Though it’s centrally located and safe during the day, this area
can be sketchy at night. As such, you’ll want to get an accommodation somewhere
on a main road (avoid the side streets).

Zona Rosa and Chapinero

The Zona
Rosa
and Chapinero districts are close to many of the city’s best bars
and nightclubs. They are popular nightlife spots for locals and tourists alike.
Zona Rosa is known for its wild nightlife scene, while Chapinero has a
reputation for being a modern and trendy neighborhood where the “cool people”
hang out.

El Chicó

El Chicó is the most upscale and luxurious neighborhood in Bogotá. It’s one of the safest places in the city, so I’d recommend this for families and “cautious” first-time Colombia travelers. I stayed in a small hotel called Selina Parque 93 Bogotá, which was only $55 a night for a double room. It was modern, clean, safe, and in my opinion, a bargain compared to other hotels in the vicinity. The only downside, which goes for all accommodations in the El Chicó part of town, was the long-ish commute to the center of the city. However, taxis and public transportation were very cheap, so it wasn’t much of a hindrance. As long as you plan ahead for a day of exploring, you won’t need to waste precious time going back and forth.

Parque 93 is a popular place for shopping and dining in the Chicó neighborhood of Bogotá.
Parque 93 is a popular place for shopping and dining in the Chicó neighborhood of Bogotá.

What to eat
and drink in Bogotá, Colombia

This diverse city is home to some amazing food and drinks.

There’s much more to Colombia than its famous coffee; which, by the way, does not taste as good in Colombia as it does abroad. They export all their best beans – so I wouldn’t buy any coffee here to bring home as a souvenir. Instead, here’s what you need to try when you visit Bogotá, Colombia.  

Chicha

Chicha is a popular fermented drink in South America. Also known as “indigenous beer,” this alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage traces its roots back to pre-Colombian times. It’s made from various fruits and grains. I would consider it an acquired taste, yet something you should try when visiting Bogotá.

Chocolate
completo (Colombian hot chocolate)

If you’re a
chocolate lover like myself, you must try Colombia’s very own version of hot chocolate.
It’s a tasteful combination of chocolate and cheese. As the chocolate is melted
in a pot, a hunk of soft cheese is added to it, giving the drink a sweet and savory
flavor.

Bogotá can get pretty chilly at night, so
the Colombian hot chocolate will certainly warm you up!

Aromática

If chocolate
isn’t your thing and you still want to warm up, try the aromática. This herbal
tea is made from fresh-infused fruits, mint leaves, and sugar cane. In this
concoction, you’ll likely taste everything from strawberry and blackberries to pineapple
and guava. So delicious!

Ajiaco

This is the most traditional dish you can find in Bogotá. Ajiaco is a delicious soup packed with chicken and potatoes. It’s also mixed with herbs, avocado, rice, and corn. Your Bogota travel wouldn’t be complete without trying it!

This is what Ajiaco looks like, the signature dish of Bogotá. Many restaurants in La Candelaria are known to serve traditional dishes.
This is ajiaco, the signature dish of Bogotá, Colombia. Many restaurants in La Candelaria are known to serve traditional dishes.

Arepa

Arepas are just about as Colombian as you
can get. This popular dish is sort of like the Colombian version of a tortilla,
made from wheat flour, corn, cheese, and butter. You can also add meat
toppings, such as barbecued beef, and vegetables to it.   

Empanadas

This is a
popular dish throughout Latin America, but Colombian empanadas have their own special
twist to it. Here, they are deep-fried and stuffed with rice, meat, hard-boiled
eggs, onions, and tomatoes. Yum!

Empanadas are a popular cuisine in Bogota, Colombia.
Empanadas with a view.

Is the tap water in Bogota safe to drink?

There are a lot of misconceptions online about the tap water in Bogota. According to publicly available information provided by the World Health Organization, the tap water in Colombia is perfectly safe to drink. The safety standards regarding the water pipes is rigorously tested and considered safe. However, it’s always a good idea to exercise some judgment. In old and unmaintained buildings, there is a risk of encountering dirty or corroded water tanks that may contaminate the water. This isn’t an issue specific to Colombia – this goes for anywhere in the world.

Places to
eat in Bogotá, Colombia

This sprawling capital city is home to many incredible restaurants, cafés, and mercados (markets). Given that Bogotá is so spread out, and you’ll probably not want to organize your day around restaurants, I recommend doing some research on TripAdvisor depending on the area you’re in. If you have the liberty of trying just one place, check out La Puerta Falsa.

La Puerta Falsa has been a top restaurant in Bogotá for over two centuries. It was established in 1816, and is one of the most authentic places to try local cuisine, including ajiaco and chocolate completo. This traditional restaurant sits just a block away from the Plaza de Bolívar.

Best time of year to visit Bogota, Colombia

Given that Bogotá is located near the equator, it doesn’t have any “true” seasons. As such, there is no bad time to visit Bogota. Just know that the temperatures tend to hover between 50-70°F (10-20°C) for most of the year, and May through August are typically the warmest. Visit Bogota during the Carnival celebrations on August 5-6 and you won’t be disappointed! Though beware – the prices for accommodations during this time can be quite pricey.

Preparing
for Bogotá,
the high-altitude
capital

Looking for some of the top tips when visiting Bogotá? Prepare for the elevation. This city is colder than you’d expect for a place so close to the equator. Throughout the year, the average temperature here is relatively constant, typically around 65° F (18° C). As such, you’ll want to bring at least a light jacket with you pretty much any time of the year.

It’s perched at 8,660 feet (2,640 meters) elevation, making it one of the highest-altitude capitals in the world. This means there’s less oxygen to go around. So, when I first arrived, I found myself out of breath while lugging light-ish suitcase through the terminal.

If you’re
concerned about getting altitude sickness in Bogotá, Colombia, I recommend
arriving at night. That way, you can go to sleep right away and let your body adjust
to the altitude overnight.

Bogotá and Monserrate are at 8,660 ft. and 10,341 ft. elevation, respectively.
Bogotá and Monserrate are at 8,660 ft. and 10,341 ft. elevation, respectively. This hilltop sanctuary is a must-see on this Bogotá travel guide.

Staying
safe in Bogotá, Colombia

As mentioned at the beginning of this Bogotá travel guide, Colombia is experiencing a resurgence of international tourism. However, for a lot of folks, safety remains a big deterrent from visiting Colombia. It’s not the dangerous country it once was, but you still shouldn’t let your guard down.

For the most part, Bogotá tourism is perfectly safe, but there are other areas of the country where you’ll want to stay away from. Be sure to monitor your country’s official government websites for up-to-date guidance on tourism and safety in Colombia. If you’re from the United States, it’s always a good idea to check the State Department website. This isn’t just a valuable resource for visiting Colombia; I always check their website for peace of mind before visiting any foreign country.

Petty crime (i.e. pick-pocketing) is common in some neighborhoods of Bogotá. This is also a common issue in many other cities around the world, including one of my favorite places, Barcelona. Regardless, I recommend taking a little extra care here and not making yourself a target by flashing expensive belongings. This is one of my top tips when visiting Bogotá.

Planning a trip Colombia during COVID-19

Looking to visit Colombia in 2022? As of February 1, 2022, international air passengers wishing to enter Colombia must provide proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination. For those with an incomplete vaccination card (i.e. people who have not received the final dose at least 14 days before the flight) may show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure or an antigen test taken no more than 24 hours before departure. Refer to the Colombia Travel page for more details.

Given that COVID rules and requirements are constantly changing, be sure to check the relevant government websites for the most up-to-date guidance.

My
comprehensive Bogotá, Colombia travel guide

I hope you found my travel guide of Bogotá,
Colombia to be an interesting and helpful resource! This was my first visit to South
America
, and Bogotá served as a great launchpad for exploring this
new frontier.

Muchas gracias for reading this article and following my journey! I hope your trip to Bogotá, Colombia, like mine, will be an eye-opening experience!

Happy Travels!

Jon

Jon Miksis - Bogotá, Colombia Travel Guide
Bogotá, Colombia Travel Guide | Jon Miksis
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