Bogota Colombia

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Bogota, Colombia

Bogota, the capital city of Colombia, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis nestled in the Andean highlands. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Bogota is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the best of South America.

Before You Go

Things to Know

  • Altitude: Bogota is situated at 2,640 meters (8,660 ft) above sea level. Be prepared for potential altitude sickness symptoms.
  • Weather: The city has a mild climate, known as “City of Eternal Spring” due to its consistent temperature range (12-20°C/54-68°F).
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.

Vaccinations and Health

  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever, hepatitis A).
  • Take necessary precautions against altitude sickness, sun exposure, and mosquito-borne illnesses.
  • Bring any prescribed medications and copies of prescriptions.

Getting There

By Air

  • El Dorado International Airport (BOG): Located 15 km (9.3 miles) from the city center.
  • Taxis, buses, and private transfers are available from the airport.

By Bus

  • Bus Terminal Salitre: Connects to other Colombian cities and international destinations.
  • Companies like Ormeño, Brasilia, and Expreso Palmira operate daily services.

Getting Around

Public Transportation

  • TransMilenio: A modern bus system with dedicated lanes. Buy a Tullave card for convenient travel.
  • Busetas: Smaller buses covering shorter routes. Pay the driver in cash.
  • Ciclovia: A Sunday-only bike route through the city.

Taxi and Ride-hailing

  • Taxis: Yellow cabs are abundant, but agree on the fare beforehand.
  • Uber and Cabify operate in Bogota.

Places to Go

La Candelaria (Historic Center)

  • Plaza Bolívar: The main square, surrounded by important landmarks like the Catedral Primada de Colombia and Capitolio Nacional.
  • Calle 10: A pedestrian street lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Monserrate

  • Monserrate Sanctuary: A stunning church perched on a mountain, offering breathtaking city views. Take the funicular or hike up.
  • Vía Crucis: A scenic walking path with stations of the cross.

Other Attractions

  • Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
  • Botero Museum (Museo Botero): Features an extensive collection of art by Fernando Botero and other international artists.
  • Jardín Botánico José María Córdova: A peaceful botanical garden with a variety of plant species.

Activities

Cultural Experiences

  • Take a coffee tour: Learn about Colombia’s famous coffee production at a local café or farm.
  • Attend a football (soccer) match: Catch a game at the Estadio El Campín, home to Santa Fe and Millonarios teams.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking in Chingaza National Park: Explore the cloud forest and stunning scenery just outside Bogota.
  • Cycling in the Sabana de Bogotá: Rent a bike and ride through the scenic countryside surrounding the city.

Where to Eat

Traditional Colombian Cuisine

  • Ajiaco: A hearty chicken soup made with potatoes, corn, and herbs. Try it at La Macarena or Café San Alberto.
  • Tamales: Steamed cornmeal dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese. Visit Doña Elvira for a delicious tamale.

International Options

  • Andrés D.C.: A trendy gastropub serving international dishes and craft beer.
  • La Castilla: Offers gourmet Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostal La Candelaria: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms, located in the historic center.
  • Casa Bellavista: A charming guesthouse with shared or private rooms, offering a homey atmosphere.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel de la Opera: A stylish hotel in La Macarena, featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop bar.
  • NH Collection Bogotá Royal: A comfortable hotel with modern amenities, situated near the financial district.

Tips and Essentials

Safety Precautions

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use ATMs or credit cards instead.
  • Keep valuables secure and consider using a money belt.

Money Matters

  • ATMs: Widely available, but be cautious of possible scams.
  • Credit Cards: Accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
  • Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants and bars.

Communication

  • Phone: Purchase a local SIM card or rent a phone for easier communication.
  • Internet: Wi-Fi is available in most cafes, hotels, and public spaces.

Other Essentials

  • Power Adapter: Colombia uses Type A and B plugs (110V, 60Hz).
  • Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but consider bottled or filtered water as well.
  • Language Guide: Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with communication.

Day Trips and Nearby Destinations

Zipaquirá

  • Visit the stunning Cathedral of Salt, an underground church built within a salt mine.
  • Explore the charming town, known for its colonial architecture and picturesque views.

Nemocón

  • Discover the scenic Laguna de Guatavita, a sacred site for the Muisca people.
  • Hike to the Cerro de las Tres Cruces for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Conclusion

Bogota, Colombia is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the city’s attractions, activities, and essentials. Remember to stay safe, respect local customs, and enjoy the incredible experiences Bogota has to offer!