Bogota

Bogotá’s enormous size and (outdated) reputation for violence intimidate tourists, yet the city rewards the astute traveler with tremendous riches befitting the capital of Colombia and one of Latin America’s largest cities. Historic riches—its well-preserved historic district makes a compelling case for being the first capital of Spanish colonial South America, as the capital of the large New Kingdom of Granada, conveniently located near the legendary El Dorado. Cultural treasures abound—the tiny historic area alone is home to dozens of experimental theaters, and different art galleries dot the city’s most popular neighborhoods, which are squeezed against the spectacular Eastern Andes hills. Culinary riches—the city’s various eating districts are home to world-class restaurants serving cuisines from throughout the globe, both traditional and contemporary, and are frequented by the local jet set. The nightlife is vibrant, with hot salsa clubs, English pubs, caffeine indie band events, cocktail lounges, steakhouses-turned-dance parties, and drawn-out chats in coffee shops and corner cafés in this distinctly cerebral university town dubbed the Athens of South America. You may tour the sites in a few days or stay for a month and experience the cosmopolitan lifestyle.

UNDERSTAND

Bogotá, Colombia’s capital city, has a population of around 8.8 million people and is located approximately 8,660 feet (2640 m) above sea level in the Andes area. Orientation is quite straightforward, since the mountains to the east are visible from the majority of the city.

To appreciate the city’s sheer immensity, remember that only Mexico City and New York City are greater in North America. Indeed, in 2008, the United Kingdom’s World Cities Study Group and Network (GaWC) ranked Bogotá alongside San Francisco, Washington, DC, Dubai, Buenos Aires, and Berlin as a world city comparable to San Francisco, Washington, DC, Dubai, Buenos Aires, and Berlin in terms of economic, political, and cultural development. This translates into a world-class metropolitan destination for travelers.

Bogotá is a city of contrasts, and as such, it gives its tourists an unforgettable experience. Prepare to strike a frenetic equilibrium between the new and the old; between the serene and the frenetic. Meet century-old plazas and cathedrals that are surrounded by soaring skyscrapers. Discover tranquil tree-lined cycling trails that are broken through by busy avenues. Bogotá is a multi-layered city. Bogotá is Colombia’s designated business capital, with globally renowned colleges and regional headquarters for major corporations. It is a city that caters to a population that has been exposed to European and North American influences, which means that traditional foods (Ajiaco) may be found alongside sushi and fast food places. It is one of Latin America’s most contemporary and cosmopolitan cities.

Bogotá is separated into four sections: the South, which is mostly impoverished; El Centro, which translates as “Center,” is the city’s original Downtown, and is home to the majority of the city’s historic cultural sites, municipal and governmental offices, and financial headquarters. El Occidente, which contains the majority of Bogotá’s major sporting venues and outdoor parks, as well as residential areas for the majority of the city’s middle and upper classes; and The North, which contains the majority of modern development, combining many upscale living spaces with affluent shopping centers, boutiques, cafes, and nightclubs, as well as numerous new business neighborhoods that are home to many multinational corporations.

Due to the city’s exponential expansion over the previous decades, some surrounding towns, such as Chia, Soacha, and Mosquera, have been absorbed and are now considered part of Greater Bogotá’s metropolitan area.

Bogotá’s climate is classified as a subtropical highland climate (Köppen Cwb). The average temperature is 14.5 degrees Celsius (58 degrees Fahrenheit), however it fluctuates from 6 to 19 degrees Celsius (43 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit) on clear days to 10 to 18 degrees Celsius (50 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit) on rainy days. Throughout the year, dry and wet seasons alternate. December, January, July, and August are the driest months. March is the hottest month, with a high temperature of 19.7 °C (67.5 °F). The coldest nights occur in January, with an average temperature of 7.6 °C (45.7 °F) in the city; fog occurs on an average of 220 days a year in the early morning, while clear sky bright full days are very rare.

Within municipal boundaries, the official maximum temperature recorded is 30.0 °C (86 °F), while the official minimum temperature recorded is 7.1 °C (19 °F).

April, May, September, October, and November are the rainiest months, with normal days being largely cloudy with low clouds and occasional wind, with high temperatures of 18 °C (64 °F) and lows of 7 °C (45 °F).

Bogotá is situated in the southeastermost region of the Bogotá savanna (Sabana de Bogotá), at an average elevation of 2,640 metres (8,660 feet). Although the Bogotá savanna is often referred to as a “savannah” (sabana), it is really a high plateau in the Andes mountains, forming part of a larger area known as the Altiplano Cundiboyacense, which translates as “high plateau of Cundinamarca and Boyacá.”

The world’s biggest continuous paramoecosystem, Sumapaz paramo, is located in the district of Bogota’s extreme south.

The Bogotá River, which flows NE-SW, passes the sabana to the south, generating Tequendama Falls (Salto del Tequendama). Tributary rivers carve out valleys that are home to thriving settlements whose economies are centered on agriculture, animal husbandry, and artisanal production.

To the east, the sabana is bounded by the Andes’ Eastern Cordillera mountain range. The Eastern Hills, which constrain city expansion, span from south to north and give rise to the Guadalupe and Monserrate mountains east of the city. The Bogotá River serves as the city’s western boundary. To the south, the Sumapaz Paramo (moorland) borders, while to the north, Bogotá stretches over the plateau to the cities of Cha and Sopó.

Bogotá is Colombia’s economic and industrial capital. The Colombian government promotes capital goods imports, with Bogotá serving as a major destination.

In 2008, the United Kingdom’s World Cities Study Group and Network (GaWC) categorized Bogotá as a beta-level city, a medium classification. Beta-level cities are significant global cities that play a critical role in connecting their area or state to the global economy.

TOURISM

Bogotá accounts for 56% of all tourists to Colombia and is home to 1,423 international corporations. Additionally, Bogotá was scored well as a worldwide location for business and gatherings. Bogotá is becoming an increasingly popular international meeting location.

The hotels in La Candelaria’s historic center and neighboring regions appeal to culture and arts enthusiasts. Additionally, this region has the majority of the city’s hostels. Numerous museums are located in La Candelaria, including the Botero Museum and the Gold Museum. Cerro Monserrate is located near La Candelaria and may be reached either cable car or funicular. The hotels in Ciudad Salitre are designed for travelers who are only in Bogotá for a brief period and are situated close El Dorado International Airport.

Significant landmarks and tourist attractions in Bogotá include the José Celestino Mutis botanical garden, La Quinta de Bolivar, the national observatory, the planetarium, Maloka, the Colpatria observation point, the La Calera observation point, the American flags monument, and La Candelaria (the historical district of the city). Additionally, there is Usaquen, a colonial monument where breakfast and a flea market are a Sunday ritual. Numerous green parks and amusement parks, such as Salitre Magico or Mundo Aventura, are located around the city.

The lush regions around Bogota are ideal for eco-tourism and trekking activities. In the city’s eastern slopes, only a few minutes’ walk from major highways, are Quebrada La vieja and Chapinero Waterfalls, two of several green destinations for sightseeing and tourism with pure air.

Additionally, there are numerous regions across the city where one may find exquisite eateries. G Zone, T Zone, and La Macarena are all well-known for their culinary offerings.

Since the 2000s, the city has attracted big hotel brands.

SHOPPING MALLS

The economy of Bogotá has been greatly bolstered in recent years as a result of the construction of new retail complexes. Approximately 160 additional malls were being built to complement the current 100.

El Dorado International Airport (IATA: BOG), which is about 20 minutes from the city center by taxi, serves the area. It receives a number of flights each day from cities including New York City, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Houston, Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Paris, So Paulo, Madrid, Barcelona, Frankfurt, Mexico City, San José, Lima, Buenos Aires, Panamá City, Quito, Guayaquil, Oranjestad ( The easy connections and direct flights from Los Angeles, Washington, Santo Domingo, San Juan, Punta Cana, Valencia (Venezuela), La Habana, Montego Bay, London, Frankfurt, and Orlando are available to tourists as well. Several foreign carriers, including Spirit, JetBlue, United, Delta, Iberia, Air France, Lufthansa, Air Canada, American Airlines, LAN, Mexicana, Gol, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Aerolneas Argentinas, Delta, Iberia, Air France, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and AeroGal.

Numerous airlines provide domestic flights, including the major Colombian carrier Avianca, Copa Airlines, LAN, EasyFly, Satena, and VivaColombia (the low-cost, Ryanair-like airline). The Puente Aéreo terminal, close to El Dorado terminal, is where Avianca’s domestic flights depart from, and it offers WiFi connectivity practically everywhere. There are over 20 flights per day to the two airports in Medelln, over 15 flights per day to Cali, and over 10 flights per day to Cartagena. Taxis from the airport are regulated, affordably priced, and secure. El Dorado Airport is now receiving a thorough renovation that will be finished in 2012 and make it larger and more pleasant. El Dorado is also the biggest airport in terms of freight flow and the third busiest airport in Latin America.

To get out from the airport into the city there are a couple of options:

• Regulated taxis. You must first look for a stand where you must choose your destination before they can print out a ticket with the associated cost. Then, select a cab from the queue and let the driver know where you’re going. You will only be required to pay what is indicated on your ticket when you arrive at your destination. The usual cost will be between 15.000 and 25.000 COP.
• Bus. There is a “paradero” (bus stop) just a few meters outside the main door entry, and busetas frequently pass by. Even though this option is by far the least expensive (around 1.500 COP), it might be risky if you are unfamiliar with the city because the bus only identifies the major locations that it goes by. Bus drivers are, however, kind and fairly helpful, so you may ask them to let you know when the bus is passing a certain location in the city. Asking him to drop you off near to a Transmilenio stop and then continuing your journey from there is a smart choice.
• Transmilenio. The El Dorado avenue extension of Bogotá’s bus rapid transit (BRT) system in 2012 made it feasible to utilize the system to enter and exit the airport. If you are carrying large suitcases, you could not be permitted inside the stations, thus you can only utilize the system if you have modest luggage. Find the “Alimentador” (feeder) stops outside the main terminal or the Puente Aéreo (if you’re flying Avianca) to exit; it’s a green bus with “Transmilenio” written on the side. You may use this bus for no charge to reach the main “Portal El Dorado” stop. Prior to leaving for the station, purchase a Tullave card, then board the appropriate bus. People wearing blue SITP or Transmilenio jackets are prepared to assist (although most of them do not speak English – bring your Spanish phrasebook).

In recent years, Colombian bus travel has become more safer. However, tourists should use caution when traveling and should only do it during the day. Avoid carrying a lot of cash because there are particular roads where robberies are known to happen. The ‘upscale’ buses offer excellent service and excellent comfort. Select the most costly service (only a few dollars more), as these buses often have superior mechanical conditions and are newer. Additionally, two new bus terminals are being constructed in Bogotá, one in the extreme south and one in the northeast corner.

El Terminal de Transporte de Bogotá, the city’s major station, is now served by buses. The station is spotless and includes the usual conveniences. Numerous bus companies run frequent services to locations all around the nation from Calle 22 B, No 69-59. You may take a brief cab trip to get there from the airport.

Remember that although being well-run, the majority of the terminal’s eateries might be pricey by Colombian standards. If necessary, it could be best to order a dish for two people or just to look for businesses near the station.

The terminal is separated into multiple color-coded sections, with yellow denoting the south, blue denoting the east and west, red denoting the north and international travel, and purple denoting arrivals.

In this terminal, you may find some of Colombia’s most well-known bus companies, including:

• Expreso Bolivariano : This company has one of the most extensive networks. Some international destinations as well.
• Coomotor : Mostly destinations in Southern Colombia.

The city of Bogotá is grid-organized. A really flawed one, in fact. The city expanded chaotically without any long-term urban planning in the second half of the 20th century, mostly due to rural conflict and the immigration that resulted (or, in some cases, just plain bad urban planning). As a result, there are several uneven blocks, crooked roadways, and diagonals that cross the apparent ideal grid. Because of this, the seemingly simple street address system has historically served as a general location indicator rather than a precise route finding method. To correct several noticeable anomalies in navigation, many of the city’s street addresses recently underwent an upgrade. Nowadays, most tourist destinations are simple to discover, but you have been forewarned.

Carreras (streets), which run parallel to the mountains from south to north, are shortened as Cr., Kra., and Cra. Except for a very small number of carreras near the mountains that rise in reverse order and have names like “Carrera 1 E” (‘E’ meaning for East), the majority of carrera numbers increase from East to West, away from the mountains, therefore Carrera 7 is close to them and Carrera 100 is distant from them.

Calles (also known as streets) travel from East to West across the carreras. Cll. and Cl. are used to indicate calls. Calle numbers in Bogota rise from south to north, therefore Calle 13 is close to the city’s center while Calle 200 is one of the final streets before leaving the city on the north side (the half of the city that visitors are most likely to visit). The southern calle numbers rise from North to South, reflecting the streets in the northern part, and function similarly to “East” carreras close to the mountains. They go by names like “Calle 85 S” (with the “S” standing for South).

There are “diagonales” and “transversales” in addition to calles and carreras. They are not exactly parallel to calles and carreras, as their names would imply. But they all use the same system of numbering. Transversales are meant to deviate from carreras whereas diagonales are supposed to deviate from calles. Diagonal 107, for instance, runs about East-West and is located near Calle 106 or 108.

Avenidas, also shortened to Av or Avda, are typically bigger, important streets. Although certain avenues wind around, most avenidas geographically fall into one of the four groups listed above. They typically have a designation, such “Avenida Suba,” “Avenida Boyacá,” and so on, in addition to the classification and number mentioned above. Thus, Avenida Jiménez, a major thoroughfare, is also known as Calle 13 in the numbering system.

A street and a string of digits make up each address. For instance, Cl. 45 24-15 denotes that the location is on Calle 45, that there are two intersecting carreras nearby, and that the lower number of the two is Carrera 24 (since we are discussing carreras here, it denotes the closest carrera to the East of the location; if we were discussing calles, it would denote the closest calle to the South of the location). It also denotes that the location is approximately 15 meters from the intersectio. Furthermore, the site is on the north side of Calle 24 since the last number, 15, is odd (if the location were on a carrera, it would be on the East side of it). The converse is true when even numbers appear at the end.

Taxis are undoubtedly the most obvious representation of Bogotá’s negative aspects to the outside world, despite being common and reasonably priced. The paseo millionario, or “Millionaire Ride,” occurs when a taxi driver swings by to pick up armed accomplices who then rob you, possibly drug you, and almost certainly take you to several ATMs to forcibly withdraw large sums of money. It is probably unfamiliar to travelers used to being duped by taxi drivers.

In reality, this relatively harsh behavior is rather typical. Taxis should only be contacted through dispatch, never hailed from the street. Nice restaurants and any lodge will be eager to assist you with this, and they will show real worry if they believe you intend to hail a taxi. If not, make your own call at 599-9999, 311-1111, or 411-1111. However, sometimes it might take a while to obtain one, so having a backup is a smart idea. If using public transportation doesn’t appeal to you, think about having a private car service on hand. When everything is taken into account, they offer a decent value for the money, and your hotel or company should be able to suggest one.

The taxi requesting app In Bogota, Uber is a reliable and reasonably priced choice, although it does demand that your phone have Internet connectivity. If you live in the La Candelaria neighborhood, Uber rides may take some time to arrive.

The last two numbers of the phone from which you phoned to request the taxi are always the “clave,” or “key,” that the driver will ask for in order to verify that it was you who called when you order a taxi. Each cab has a meter that starts at 25 ticks and should go up one tick every ten kilometers or thirty seconds. On a card inside the cab is the rate schedule. Almost all cabbies will attempt to take advantage of you in some way, so make sure the meter is started before you leave. Tipping is never appropriate; make sure to calculate your change and keep an eye out for forged money.

There are additional fees for nights, holidays, and airports (after 8PM). Information about surcharges is displayed on the fare card. Currently, there is a 600 peso cost for calling a cab to come to your home, and a 1.600 peso extra for trips that begin after 8 o’clock. Sundays and holidays are also subject to a 1.600 peso fee. Lock the taxi’s doors, especially at night. Call the police at 123 to file a complaint if you have a problem in the cab or with the driver. Call the organization that the cab is registered with as well. In contrast, You can choose a Shuttle Service if you want a more exclusive and refined choice. You won’t have to worry about bringing cash around all the time because these businesses frequently provide a large selection of automobiles and accept credit cards.

The Transmilenio, Bogota’s express bus service, is very cost-effective, hygienic, and effective. It uses private lanes to transport people to all areas of the city while avoiding the dreaded city gridlock. Costs range from 2000 to 1 700 COP (you need to buy the card beforehand – 3.000 COP). The drawback, though, is a byproduct of its own success—it is extremely busy during rush hour and occasionally throughout the rest of the day.

The buses utilized in those networks are articulated; they are quick and secure, although they could be crowded in the afternoon. The system also makes use of various station types: simple stations, which offer bus services on the right and left (north-south and east-west) sides, and intermediate stations, which are typically found in the middle and offer full services like elevators, station libraries, bike parks, and restrooms. Alimentadores services (buses that travel to areas where articulated buses cannot) and the nine bus arrival and departure points known as portals are situated close to the city’s entrances. Depending on the station, service finishes between 10PM and 11PM. The metropolitan area’s intercity buses also stop at these stations.

Although the sheer volume of bus numbers is overwhelming, there is a clear rationale behind them. Use the trip planner if you don’t have time, but you should still definitely ask some station patrons for directions. Actually, there are just 10 routes, each of which is identified by a letter (and a name, but don’t worry about that). You may access the historic and political hub through the J and L lines; J buses even make a stop at the Gold Museum. The nearest stop to the well-known Zona Rosa is Calle 72, where a bus will take you up through Chapinorte. K buses depart the direction of the airport. B buses will take you to Portal del Norte, where you may board intercity buses that will take you as far as Zipaquirá (for the Salt Cathedral).

The primary mode of transportation for the working class and student class, privately operated buses ply all major thoroughfares and several minor streets. They do not have bus “stops”; rather, you may call them like a taxi and they will stop where you are standing even if they do follow particular routes. Destinations, either neighborhoods or names of major streets, are listed on placards in the enormous front windows. The fare will be requested as you enter; if you are traveling with a partner, you could be asked “Para ambos?,” which translates to “For both?,” to indicate whether you are paying for both of you or just yourself. After there, a turnstile leads you to the sitting sections. The buses are typically available in three sizes: long (like a school bus), medium, and tiny (called busetas). Each one has turnpikes. You must proceed to the back door of these buses and either punch a button, which is typically adjacent to the exit or on one of the hand rails, or yell “Aqui, por favor!” or “Pare!” (Stop!) to escape. It is common practice to expect passengers to board and depart even in the middle of the roadway.

On occasion, merchants are permitted to board the buses to hawk candies or other gifts (occasionally donating one to the driver for the privilege). Alternately, you could come across performers like singers or guitarists, or even the more artistic street panhandlers who will regale you with a lengthy, poetic account of their plight before pleading for alms. It is a typical scene, even on the tiniest buses, which are crammed full of passengers who are standing and sitting. It’s interesting to note that Ilona, a recent Grammy nominee, began her career by singing on buses across Bogotá.

Combining Google maps, which displays bus stops and routes, with the SITP website will allow you to plan the bus you need to take, but only for SITP buses.

Typically, a private bus ride will cost you 1500 COP at night and 1450 COP during the day.

Colectivos may often be flagged down at any location along a major road, and they very much cover all of the city’s major routes. Ask the driver (in Spanish) if he passes the area or crossroads you intend to visit, or keep an eye out for lists of destinations printed on these little buses’ windshields. Although they aren’t particularly comfortable, they are faster than a regular bus and can transport you practically everywhere. They are also employed as shuttles on routes where there isn’t a lot of wealth.

The Ciclovia, a unique feature of Bogotá, is held on Sundays and public holidays from 7 AM to 2 PM and is a place for people to run, bike, inline skate, or simply observe from the side. Bogotá has the greatest network of bicycle routes in Latin America, known as “Ciclorutas.” Along the route, there are refreshment kiosks, and most parks feature various activities including yoga, dance, stretching, and spinning. Renting a bike, embarking on a guided cycling tour on one of Bogota’s Ciclorutas, or taking part in the Ciclovia are all enjoyable and healthful ways to get to know the city and its inhabitants.

Every visitor to Bogotá should see at least three or four of the city’s 20 unique locales, or Districts, depending on the reason for their trip and how long they want to stay there. La Candelaria, Chapinero-Zona T, and the Zona Rosa are among the “must-sees.” It might be worthwhile to spend a little additional time touring La Macarena in Santa Fe, Parque 93, and Usaquén’s historic district.

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The national government is located in the historic mid-sixteenth century colonial neighborhood of La Candelaria, which witnessed many significant events in Colombian and South American independence history, including the nearly fatal shooting and escape of Simon Bolivar, the execution of revolutionary heroine Policarpa Salavarrieta, better known as “La Pola,” and the Grito de Libertad, which is regarded as the start of the region’s revolution.

The neighborhood is undoubtedly rich in history, and there are several intriguing museums (the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum being possibly the greatest) and historic cathedrals. Some of its charming streets are solely for pedestrians. The Colonial Art Museum, the Catedral Primada and Palacio de Nario on Plaza de Bolivar, the Iglesia del Carmen, the Biblioteca Luis A Arango, and the colonial-style homes and structures are the most significant sites. Nearly all museums are free to enter. Numerous Catholic churches, many of them centuries old, may be found in La Candelaria. La Candelaria is home to the Colombian-American and Colombian-French cultural centers, while a Colombian-Spanish cultural center is now being built.

The Sanctuary of Monserrate, which sits up the mountains over Santa Fe, is the most well-known location outside of La Candelaria, and you can see it from almost anywhere in the city. Take the funicular up, or trek it if you’re feeling bold and fit. The National Museum and the Modern Art Museum are both located in Santa Fe.

With the exception of the little colonial core of Usaquén, the northern districts that are so well-known for food and nightlife don’t offer much in the way of conventional sightseeing. However, Parque 93 Park is a fairly attractive park.

For those who are staying there or have lots of time after seeing the more well-known sights downtown, such as the Botanical Gardens and the Maloka Science Center, Ciudad Salitre has a few intriguing sights.

The historic Downtown and La Candelaria area are must-sees for anybody visiting Bogota. Given its proximity to many of the city’s attractions, this side of town is also where you’ll find the majority of the town’s inexpensive hotel and food options, making it quite popular with backpackers and low-budget tourists. Just before reaching Parque Santander, begin traveling down Calle 14 and Avenida Septima. Visit the renowned Museo del Oro, sometimes known as the Gold Museum, to see its fabled El Dorado exhibits. Continue one block south to Avenida Jimenez, where you may exercise your camera at one of Bogota’s most well-known and historic junctions where a few old churches and 19th-century structures mix. Turn east (toward the mountains) and proceed up Avenida Jimenez, passing by downtown’s well-known Eje Ambiental or Environmental Axis, a section of the avenue that has been closed to all traffic except Transmilenio in order to make way for a wide sidewalk lined with trees and a contained water stream.

Alongside the Eje Ambiental are several notable and historic buildings that are home to some of Bogota’s most well-known and venerable businesses, including El Tiempo and the Bank of the Republic. The Eje Ambiental begins to bend northward a few blocks east, just past the Parque de los Periodistas. Leave the axis and turn south instead via one of the side streets that enter the neighborhood to reach Calle 13 and Carrera 2, el Chorro de Quevedo, the unofficial center of La Candelaria, where it is argued that the City of Bogota was first established in 1538. At this location, bohemian life now gathers to appreciate the arts, culture, and music. On the journey, be sure to observe the colonial homes and streets’ zany architecture and color schemes. Take Calle 11 a few streets south of Carrera 2 and turn west once again right in front of La Salle University. You’ll be pleased you did since you’ve been ascending steadily eastward, so take pleasure in your stroll back down.

Be careful to pay attention to the peculiar street names shown on charming signage at every intersection. You may find the Museo Botero by traveling along Calle 11 to the west. This museum features part of the famed Colombian painter Botero’s personal art collection and work. The Centro Cultural Garcia Marquez is a contemporary cultural hub and location located a further block away. It has a library, art galleries, music halls, and classrooms, as well as year-round activities and exhibits for all tastes and audiences interested in culture and the arts. As you go west, you will eventually arrive at the Plaza de Bolivar, the city’s enormous central square ringed by neoclassical government buildings and the largest cathedral in the nation, the Catedral Primada. After viewing the numerous sites, you might wish to head southbound on Carrera Septima for a few blocks to see the Presidential Palace and its Presidential Guard. When you finally return to Carrera Septima, head north until you reach Transmilenio, which is almost where you started!

Over 70 art galleries and 58 museums are available in the city. The four collections in the Colombian National Museum are art, history, archaeology, and ethnography. The greatest collection of pre-Columbian gold in the world is housed in the Gold Museum, which also has 30,000 ceramic, stone, and textile artifacts and 35,000 pieces of tumbaga gold.

123 works by Fernando Botero and 87 pieces by other international artists are on display in the Botero Museum. Graphic arts, industrial design, and photography are all featured in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in Bogota. An extensive collection of Colombian colonial art is kept in the Museum of Colonial Art. The Fundación Gilberto Alzate Avendao sponsors performances and holds temporary art exhibitions in its halls and galleries.

The Instituto de Ciencias Naturales (UN), one of the four largest museums of natural sciences in Latin America, the Archeological Museum – Casa del Marqués de San Jorge, which houses about 30.000 pieces of pre-Columbian art, and the Geological Museum, which has a collection specializing in Geology and Paleontology, are some of the scientific museums.

In addition to the headquarters of Maloka and the Children’s Museum of Bogotá, historical museums in Bogotá include the Jorge Eliecer Gaitan Museum, the Museum of Independence (Museo de la Independencia), the Quinta de Bolivar, and the Casa Museo Francisco José de Caldas. The Art Deco and the Museum of Bogotá are two brand-new museums.

• Catedral de Sal de Zipaquirá. A stunning church that was constructed out of a salt mine is located in the lovely colonial village of Zipaquira. The hourly cathedral tour, which is free and offered in a variety of languages, may be requested at the entrance. At your hotel or hostel, you may plan a group or private guided journey to get there. Your other alternatives are the Transmilenio to Portal del Norte and a bus from there to Zipaquirá. Each will set you back 5,750 colons and take two hours. Consider hiring a cab because it is a 20-minute uphill walk from where the Zipa bus drops you off (4000 COP). You may return via the town and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings. Another way to get there is by taking the train that is shown below. It costs 20,000 COP to enter.

• Tren Turistico De La Sabana. The Catedral del Sal and Zipaquirá are easily accessible by train. A tourist train leaves every day in the morning for a full-day tour of the Zipaquirá area. A package that includes admission to the cathedral, transportation from the Zipaquirá train station to the cathedral, and transportation from the cathedral to Cajirá, where you may partake in a traditional meal before the train picks you up later, will be available for purchase to you on the train. Although local bands accompany the train and keep the passengers entertained, food and drinks are also provided there. Everything is well-organized. You can only buy train tickets at railway stations; the one that is nearest to the tourist sites in Bogota is Usaquén Train Station, which is close to Centro Comercial Santa Ana. Since trains are usually crowded, especially on weekends and during the picking season, you should arrive at the station early. Because the train leaves at 9:15 AM, you should arrive before 8:00 AM. Roundtrip fare for the Cathdral Package is 43,000 COP.

• On some Friday nights, parts of Avenida Septima are closed in the Centro and you can see all sorts of street performers, live music, magic shows, buy crafts and street food. If you don’t mind crowds its worth a visit.

• Check out the Iberoamerican Theater Festival, the biggest theater festival in the world (occurs every two years during Easter Week).

• Attend a soccer or football game at El Campin Stadium. It is easily reached by Transmillenio and has a seating capacity of 48,000 people. It also serves as the home field for Millionarios and Santa Fe of the professional league. For these home games, stay away from the north and south sections, which are filled with opposing fan bases; instead, purchase a ticket for the eastern or western wings. Tickets for away games begin at 20,000 COP, while those for home games are 16,000 COP.

• Take a taxi or the Transmilenio to a southside working-class area. Sit down at a “panaderia” (bakery), get some nice bread and a soda from the “colombiana” brand, and take in the atmosphere of the average Colombian; don’t limit yourself to the affluent Norte. The safest places to choose from among these neighborhoods are Santa Isabel, 20 de Julio, and the Tunal region.

• Visit Parque Simon Bolivar to unwind like the rolos (residents of Bogota), take a stroll across the park’s largest area, or take the train.

• Ciclovía. Major avenues are blocked off to traffic every Sunday and federal holiday from 7 AM to 2 PM, and hundreds of people come out to cycle, skate, jog, and stroll. You may join Bogotravel trips in the Candelaria area by foot or by renting a bicycle.

• Who would have thought such a breathtaking natural treasure could be found smack in the middle of Bogotá? The wetlands of the Sabana (savannah) of Bogotá are where the rivers “clean up” after pouring down from mountains by slowing down a little and resting on the flat. The water then keeps flowing into the lowlands where it rejoins the rivers below, such the Magdalena and Bogotá rivers.

• Catedral de Sal de Zipaquirá. A stunning church that was constructed out of a salt mine is located in the lovely colonial village of Zipaquira. The hourly cathedral tour, which is free and offered in a variety of languages, may be requested at the entrance. At your hotel or hostel, you may plan a group or private guided journey to get there. Your other alternatives are the Transmilenio to Portal del Norte and a bus from there to Zipaquirá. Each will set you back 5,750 colons and take two hours. Consider hiring a cab because it is a 20-minute uphill walk from where the Zipa bus drops you off (4000 COP). You may return via the town and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings. Another way to get there is by taking the train that is shown below. It costs 20,000 COP to enter.

• Tren Turistico De La Sabana. The Catedral del Sal and Zipaquirá are easily accessible by train. A tourist train leaves every day in the morning for a full-day tour of the Zipaquirá area. A package that includes admission to the cathedral, transportation from the Zipaquirá train station to the cathedral, and transportation from the cathedral to Cajirá, where you may partake in a traditional meal before the train picks you up later, will be available for purchase to you on the train. Although local bands accompany the train and keep the passengers entertained, food and drinks are also provided there. Everything is well-organized. You can only buy train tickets at railway stations; the one that is nearest to the tourist sites in Bogota is Usaquén Train Station, which is close to Centro Comercial Santa Ana. Since trains are usually crowded, especially on weekends and during the picking season, you should arrive at the station early. Because the train leaves at 9:15 AM, you should arrive before 8:00 AM. Roundtrip fare for the Cathdral Package is 43,000 COP.

• On some Friday nights, parts of Avenida Septima are closed in the Centro and you can see all sorts of street performers, live music, magic shows, buy crafts and street food. If you don’t mind crowds its worth a visit.

• Check out the Iberoamerican Theater Festival, the biggest theater festival in the world (occurs every two years during Easter Week).

• Attend a soccer or football game at El Campin Stadium. It is easily reached by Transmillenio and has a seating capacity of 48,000 people. It also serves as the home field for Millionarios and Santa Fe of the professional league. For these home games, stay away from the north and south sections, which are filled with opposing fan bases; instead, purchase a ticket for the eastern or western wings. Tickets for away games begin at 20,000 COP, while those for home games are 16,000 COP.

• Take a taxi or the Transmilenio to a southside working-class area. Sit down at a “panaderia” (bakery), get some nice bread and a soda from the “colombiana” brand, and take in the atmosphere of the average Colombian; don’t limit yourself to the affluent Norte. The safest places to choose from among these neighborhoods are Santa Isabel, 20 de Julio, and the Tunal region.

• Visit Parque Simon Bolivar to unwind like the rolos (residents of Bogota), take a stroll across the park’s largest area, or take the train.

• Ciclovía. Major avenues are blocked off to traffic every Sunday and federal holiday from 7 AM to 2 PM, and hundreds of people come out to cycle, skate, jog, and stroll. You may join Bogotravel trips in the Candelaria area by foot or by renting a bicycle.

• Who would have thought such a breathtaking natural treasure could be found smack in the middle of Bogotá? The wetlands of the Sabana (savannah) of Bogotá are where the rivers “clean up” after pouring down from mountains by slowing down a little and resting on the flat. The water then keeps flowing into the lowlands where it rejoins the rivers below, such the Magdalena and Bogotá rivers.

Arepas: Pancakes prepared from corn flour that are occasionally topped with cheese or a little salt.

Empanadas: Pastries are the most comparable food to empanadas. Since they are widely consumed across South America, each nation or area often has its unique recipe. Meat, potatoes, veggies, and rice make up the filling, which is typically encased in a cornmeal shell.

Tamal: Usually consumed during breakfast is tamal. a boiling combination of yellow corn, potatoes, chicken, and other veggies wrapped in plantain leaves. need a sizable mug of hot chocolate to go with it.

Ajiaco: A thick, traditional soup made with three different kinds of potatoes, chicken, avocado, dairy cream, herbs, and maize, among other ingredients. It is said to be the official dish of the city and is often from the altiplano area.

Burgers and pizza. Can we actually refer to these dishes as typical Bogotá fare? Given their ubiquity, one may assume they are local. You only need to spin 360 degrees to discover some in the city because it accomplishes both of them fairly effectively.

Unsurprisingly for a city of seven million residents in Latin America, there are numerous options for informal meals. You’ll discover a decent mix of Colombian cuisine as well as inexpensive fare from North America (particularly pizza and burgers!) and Asia because Bogotanos adore food from all over the world. Be aware that Chinese food is frequently Colombianized, which may sometimes be tasty but is rarely the actual thing. Sushi is also simple to locate, although sometimes of poor quality. The obvious exception is (upscale) Wok, which has multiple locations and offers excellent sushi and other genuine East and Southeast Asian foods for a price comparable to that in North America.

Try a corrientazo for lunch if you can. This is a tiny restaurant that is only open for lunch and serves great full meals to customers on their break, including soup, freshly squeezed fruit juice, a meat dish, multiple carbohydrate options, and typically more fruit on the side. Corrientazos are easily recognized by their well-publicized and relatively constrained menu, which frequently just has one main course option! Typically, classic ajiaco, bandeja paisa, or seafood are the best selections. On a cardboard sign written simply, “ALMUERZO” (lunch) is sometimes the only advertisement. The cost of a lunch ranges from $3,500 to $10,000.

The delicious rotisserie chicken, sometimes known as chicken “broaster,” is typically nearby. To keep your fingers clean as you eat it, they will hand you a pair of plastic gloves.

If continual meat and starch isn’t your thing, there are many of shops in the busier areas that specialize in selling fruit and fruit juice/smoothies, and they frequently also offer ice cream. The fruit is exceptional in Colombia, and the juice shops are really affordable.

And there’s always Crepes & Waffles, a well-known brand in Bogotá that, with such a concentration, can’t help but be fantastic.

There are a few gourmet zones, with Zona G being the most noteworthy (G for Gourmet). It is a peaceful area with a residential appearance that is teeming with top-notch eateries. Other locations to search for upscale restaurants include (obviously) the Zona Rosa, Parque 93, Santa Fe’s La Macarena area, and a bit farther out, Usaquén.

There are two high-end, superb restaurants in Monserrate that provide meals with a view yet aren’t at all tourist traps. Tramonti, a mountainside restaurant less frequented by visitors but decorated like a Swiss mountain hut and ideal for viewing the sunset and the lights come on, is located just outside the city on the way to La Calera.

Local products worth bringing home include :

• Inexpensive handicrafts and jewelry from vendors. One of the cheapest and picturesque places to buy handicrafts is Pasaje Rivas (Calle 9 no. 9). You can access the narrow hall filled with small stores crossing Plaza de Bolívar, where de Major’s and president’s office is located.
• Coffee-based products
• Leather handbags, shoes, and wallets.
• Uncut and cut emeralds brought in from the world’s best emerald mines
• Inexpensive silver jewelry
• Dress suits and shoes

In Usaquen (or Uzacan) you can find a huge flea market on Sundays.

Usaquén typically has the best malls in town, although Ciudad Salitre, which is nearer the airport, also has a fantastic one.

The affluent malls of Centro Andino, Atlantis Plaza, and El Retiro encircle Bogota’s Zona T, the city’s most fashionable neighborhood. These malls have a variety of expensive stores, including Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Cartier, Loewe, and many more.

Shopping Centers with Lower Prices: San Martn, Calima. Western and Northwestern: Titan, Iserra 100, Salitre Plaza, Hayuelos, Floresta, Gran Estacion, and Salitre Plaza. South: Tintal Plaza, Ciudad Tunal, Plaza de las Americas.

There are many different types of nightlife in Bogotá, so you can almost likely find the experience you’re searching for. English pubs, Latin dance halls, electronic music clubs, secluded storefront bars, bizarrely themed clubs, salsa clubs, a thriving indie-rock culture (if Cali is salsa, Bogotá is rock n’ roll), megaclubs, cocktail lounges, etc. are all available.

The majority of Bogota’s sophisticated nightlife can be found in Zona Rosa and Bogotá/Parque 93. Although it is a bit more dispersed and sparse, you may find locations like this in Chapinero Central, Usaquén, Santa Fé, and even La Candelaria. La Candelaria and Chapinero Central are typically more bohemian, hipster, artistic, and youthful. The homosexual nightlife is centered on Chapinero.

Bogotá is a little wild but not as scary as it is portrayed to be. Its murder rate, which was previously the highest in the world and was crazily high, has now decreased to a level that is comfortably below that of the majority of large Latin American cities, including Rio de Janeiro, So Paulo, Caracas, and Mexico City. Visitors shouldn’t be concerned at all about bombings and kidnappings because this is not a conflict zone.

The two biggest threats to traveler safety are muggings and cab theft. It’s never worth dying for, and because most muggers are drugged up and carrying knives or weapons, you should just give them what they want without a struggle. La Candelaria (after dark on weeknights—daytime strolls and F-Sa nights are good), the whole of Santa Fé, and, to a much lesser extent, the more southern portions of Chapinero near Avenida Caracas, are areas that are popular with tourists and have a serious mugging issue. Any time of day, Los Mártires is a place to be cautious.

Here, taxi crime is a strange issue (see “Million Dollar Ride” below). Longer-term guests may occasionally find themselves sloppily hailing cabs, although it is preferable to summon cabs rather than do so. Any sent cab will be secure, but hailed cabs are occasionally, but perhaps too frequently, unsafe. Although it can take a little longer, your safety is worth the extra time. The fancier hotels and eateries will always be pleased to call one for you and frequently do so without being asked.

The Million Dollar Ride, oh my! (Spanish: Paseo Millonario). In most social situations involving Bogotanos, it happens frequently enough that at least one person or someone close to them has experienced a similar experience. When you flag down a taxi on the street, it stops, you get inside, another person joins you, and they take you on a journey until you have removed a significant amount of money from your bank accounts. In most cases, legitimate threats of violence are used to achieve this.

ATM robberies. When using a cash machine, be careful that no one follows you after you have withdrawn the cash. It’s a precaution that foreign tourists aren’t usually accustomed to adopting, but it’s simple: before approaching the machine, scan the area to check if anyone is paying attention to you excessively. Then, do the same afterward. If someone is, stop and/or retreat into a restaurant or business and remain there. Try to use the ATMs that are inside (the grocery store Éxito always has them), but keep an eye on your surroundings.

The water in Bogotá is excellent and safe to drink. Avoid eating anything from the street that can disturb your stomach. Due to its altitude, Bogotá does not have tropical illnesses like malaria. The biggest health issue affecting visitors is really altitude sickness, so at first, prepare to start panting when climbing stairs or hills! Usually, a few days off from strenuous exercise or some time spent in a city with moderate altitude, like Medelln, would do the work. Consult your doctor if you suffer from heart disease or a respiratory problem. Wheelchairs are available at El Dorado Airport for passengers with disabilities. Excellent medical treatment is available at private hospitals.