travel to bogota 2023

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Bogotá Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

The capital of Colombia , Bogotá, is a city most people tend to pass through on their way to explore other areas of Colombia. They make an obligatory visit since they are in the country and go off to spend time somewhere “better.”

Most travelers say Bogotá is only worth a few days.

Those travelers are wrong.

I loved traveling around Bogotá. Devoid of a lot of the Gringofication you find in other parts of the country, it felt like the most Colombian of cities to me.

There is a lot to do here too. There are tons of museums, parks, activities, walking tours, food tours, nightlife options, and an incredible foodie scene. It has some dramatic scenery (it’s at the bottom of two mountains with a church on top of each) and has some amazing street art.

I think it is a really underappreciated city because too many travelers compare it to Medellín.

But, if you just take Bogotá for what it is, it’s an amazing destination. I ended up staying a lot longer than I originally planned and can’t wait to go back. Give the city a chance and spend a few extra days exploring it.

This travel guide to Bogota can help you plan a great trip there (and hopefully make you love it as much as I do).

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bogotá

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bogotá

1. Check out the view from Monserrate

You can walk 1,500 steps up to Bogotá’s famous Monserrate Church, which offers sweeping views from the mountaintop. It’s a steep climb so start early in the morning to beat both the sun and the crowds. There’s also a funicular if you don’t want to walk which costs 13,000 COP (7,500 COP on Sundays).

2. Admire the Street Art

Bogotá is all about its street art. Walk around areas like La Candelaria or Las Aguas area (by the TransMilenio station) and there are tons of beautiful murals. Take the Free Graffiti Tour Bogotá to get the best experience and context.

3. Visit the Botero Museum

Fernando Botero is the most famous Colombian artist and you can see his work all over the country. Bogotá Botero Museum hosts the largest collection of his work, with 123 pieces that were donated by the artist with the condition that the public could access them for free entry.

4. Take a Bike Tour

Bogotá is a huge city. One of the best ways to see a bit more of the city is by doing a bike tour. You not only get to see some of the more local areas, but most of the bike tours include a fruit and coffee tasting. Bogotá Bike Tours has tours starting at 45,000 COP and also offers standalone bike rental (30,000 COP for four hours).

5. See the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum)

The Museo del Oro has an impressive collection of gold artifacts that tell you the story of Colombia’s rich history. It’s not a huge museum but it’s one of the best in the country. The entrance fee is 4,000 COP but it’s free on Sunday.

Other Things to See and Do in Bogotá

1. tour casa de nariño.

Casa de Nariño is the president’s house. Beyond its attractive Neoclassical façade, its interior is filled with furniture, paintings, and sculptures from the Roman to the Renaissance era. They offer free tours Monday to Friday (you need to book online at least five days in advance), and they last around 45 minutes. If you don’t speak Spanish, be sure to request the tour in English. You can also watch the changing of the presidential guard on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 3:30pm.

2. Take a food tour

There are several food tours in Bogotá, including the Free Food Tour Bogotá which meets outside the Museo del Oro daily. The three-hour tour takes you around a few of the markets and gives you an overview of local fruits and traditional cuisine. Although the tour itself is free, you have to pay for your own food. You can register online or just turn up. There’s also La Macarena Gourmet Tour (305,000 COP per person), which takes you around Bogotá’s bohemian and artistic neighborhood. Their tour also lasts three hours and takes you to three different restaurants where you can sample a local dish and drink. Tours also include pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.

3. Taste Chicha in La Candelaria

La Candelaria is Bogotá’s oldest neighborhood and chicha is Colombia’s oldest alcoholic beverage so it makes sense to combine two historical experiences. Made from fermented corn, chicha has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years as people reconnect with their native heritage. There are many bars in La Candelaria serving it, especially on the street near Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo.

4. See the Iglesia de San Fransisco

Originally dedicated to St Francis of Assisi, San Francisco Church is one of the oldest churches in Bogotá (it was built between 1557 and 1621), with an eerily dark interior and a gorgeous gilded 17th-century altar. It was one of the few buildings that remained standing in the city center after the assassination of presidential candidate Jorge Eliécer Gaitán in 1948 (his assassination triggered a huge riot that killed 5,000 people as well as a ten-year civil war called La Violencia ). Admission is free.

5. Venture to La Chorrera Waterfall

Just an hour outside of Bogotá is the tallest waterfall in Colombia. Here you’ll also find some caves and a lookout point as well a restaurant and campsite. Admission starts at 35,000 COP (more expensive options include lunch or camping), and a guide is 40,000 COP. The alternative is to take a tour from Bogotá but those cost between 250,000-500,000 COP. The cheapest way to get there is to take the bus to Tercer Milenio, which costs as little as 7,500 COP each way. Be sure to check the times of the return busses at the tienda with the green roof when you get off the bus. From here, you can walk down to the trailhead.

6. Take a free walking tour

I always start my visits to a new city with a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main highlights on a budget. BeyondColombia has a great free walking tour that gives you a solid introduction to the city as it takes you through the city center. For a more specialized tour, check out the Bogotá Graffiti Tour. This one operates by donation, using the money raised to reinvest in future community art projects. Strawberry Tours and GuruWalk also offer free tours. Just remember to tip your guides!

7. Wander around La Candelaria

Bogotá’s historic and cultural neighborhood has narrow streets overflowing with artists selling their work, street art, hip cafes, and museums. It’s located between two of the city’s universities, so it’s often buzzing with students and young folks. Be sure to hang out on Plaza Del Chorro Del Quevedo as this small square often has a lot of street performers as well as an artist market.

8. Enjoy the nightlife in Zona Rosa

Most backpackers don’t venture out of La Candelaria and stick to the bars in that area. The Zona Rosa area is where most of the city’s expats live, and “Gringo Tuesdays” are always a lot of fun in La Villa nightclub if you want to party with the international crowd. Other popular places are Mint, the Colombian Pub, Zona T, and Morena Rooftop Bar.

9. Visit one of the many Sunday markets

Sunday is a great day for browsing the local markets. There is one close to Las Aguas station and one all the way up Carrera 7 before the pedestrian section ends on the right. If you want to eat some delicious street food you want the one on Carrera 7. The most popular stand is always the Lechona Tolimense, which sells roasted pig stuffed with rice.

10. Get on your Bike for Ciclovia

Every Sunday morning across Colombia the main roads in many of the big cities close for Ciclovia. Ciclovia is a government scheme to get people outdoors and exercise. People take to the streets on bikes, rollerskates, or they walk or run. Rent a bike and enjoy being part of this Sunday Colombian tradition! The cost of a bike rental for two hours is around 9,000 COP.

11. Visit the Cetedral de Sal

The Cathedral of Salt is just outside of Bogotá in a town called Zipaquirá. The Catholic Cathedral was built by the miners inside the tunnels of an old salt mine and is 200 meters below ground. Every Sunday, up to 3,000 people attend church services here. Just take the TransMilenio to Portal Norte and then take a small local bus to Zipa. Let the driver know where you are going so he can tell you when to get off. The entrance fee for non-residents is 60,500 COP and includes an audio guide.

12. Stroll in the Botanical Gardens

Opened in 1955, the Botanical Garden of Bogotá is home to almost 20,000 plants. There is a focus on regional plants, especially those that are endemic to the Andes and other high alpine regions of the continent. It’s a quiet, peaceful place to walk around, and there are some food stalls nearby, so you can grab a quick bite as you explore the gardens. Admission is 5,000 COP.

13. See the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen

The National Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen is a Gothic church located in La Candelaria. This church, built in Florentine Gothic style, has a red-and-white striped pattern inside and out that makes it look like a giant candy cane. It was designed by architect Giovanni Buscaglione who was also a Salesian priest in the Roman Catholic Church. Completed in 1938, the church stands almost 60 meters tall (196 feet) and has some incredible Byzantine and Moorish art inside it.

14. Visit Simon Bolívar Metropolitan Park

Created in 1979, this is one of the most popular parks in Bogotá and spans almost 1,000 acres (making it bigger than Central Park in New York!). You can find people exercising, relaxing, or attending concerts here every day of the week. It’s a relaxing place to chill out on the lakes, stroll the walkways, or even pop into the public library. There’s also a children’s museum, a recreation and amusement park, and several sports venues. The park is named after the famous Simón Bolívar, who led the liberation of the region from its Spanish overlords.

15. Explore Parque 93

This is the area of town with some of the best restaurants, nightclubs, and bars in the entire city. The park itself is home to an ongoing rotation of temporary art exhibitions. Located in one of the nicer areas of town, there are a lot of good restaurants and cafés lining the park.

16. Tour the National Museum of Colombia

Situated in the heart of Bogotá, this is the oldest and biggest museum in the entire country (and one of the oldest on the continent). Built in 1823, it’s home to over 20,000 pieces of art and historical artifacts, some dating as far back as 10,000 BCE. The building was used as a prison initially until it transitioned into a museum in 1946. If you’re a history buff or just want to learn more about the country, this museum is a must. Admission is 4,000 COP. It’s free on Wednesdays from 3pm-5pm and on Sundays.

17. Visit the Cathedral Metropolitan Basilica of Bogotá

This Roman Catholic cathedral spans 5,300 square meters, making it the biggest cathedral in Colombia and one of the biggest in South America. It’s been built four times on the same site, the most recent being between 1807-1823. The remains of Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, the founder of Bogotá can be found here.

18. Wander Plaza Bolivar

The main square of Bogotá is home to Colombia’s Palace of Justice, the Cathedral of Bogotá, the mayor’s office, and the Capitol Building. These buildings date back to as early as the 16th century, making Plaza Bolivar the historical heart of the city. Under the Spanish, the plaza was home to bullfights, circus acts, and public markets. Now it’s the perfect place for people-watching and admiring the architecture.

19. Head to the Laguna de Guatavita (Lake Guatavita)

Around 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of Bogotá, Lake Guatavita is a great place to escape from the city and breathe in some fresh air. This nature reserve is a sacred site to the region’s indigenous people and is apparently where the rumors of El Dorado originated. You can hike up the 150 steps to the top of the crater to admire the views and look down on the lake below (which is said to be hiding the gold of El Dorado). The Spanish actually tried to drain the lake to access the alleged gold hidden below but failed in their attempts. For extra relaxation, head to the hot springs in the nearby town of Sesquilé.

20. Explore the Museo Santa Clara

This museum is housed in a 17th-century church that is actually one of the oldest churches in the entire country. The government deconsecrated it in the 1960s and converted it into a museum. It has more than 148 baroque paintings that almost entirely cover its walls. I think it’s one of the most beautifully decorated churches in Colombia. Admission is 4,000 COP.

21. Get a snack from La Puerta Falsa

La Puerta Falsa (The False Door) is a tiny, yet hugely popular, restaurant with room for fewer than 20 people. The tamales and ajiaco soup have been community staples for generations – over 200 years in fact! This is one of the best places to try traditional Colombian food.

  For more information on specific destinations in Colombia, check out these guides:

• Cali Travel Guide
• Cartagena Travel Guide
• Medellín Travel Guide
• Santa Marta Travel Guide

Bogotá Travel Costs

Hostels – A bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs 20,000-35,000 COP per night, while a bed in an 8-10 -ed dorm costs between 15,000-25,000 COP. A private double room costs around 60,000-70,000 COP per night, though they can be found for as little as 30,000 COP. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Many include free breakfast as well.

If you just want to see the main tourist sites, I recommend staying in La Candelaria so you’re within walking distance of everything. If you are staying in the city for more than a few nights and are more interested in enjoying Bogotá’s vibrant nightlife, then I recommend staying in the slightly pricier Zona Rosa or Chapinero.

Budget hotels – Budget hotels are plentiful in Bogotá and a room in a two-star hotel costs 110,000-150,000 per night. Expect amenities like free Wi-Fi, AC, and sometimes free breakfast.

Airbnb is also available in the city, with private rooms starting at 60,000 COP per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices average about 235,000 COP per night.

Food – Colombian food is a blend of indigenous, Caribbean, and European traditions. While ingredients and popular dishes vary by region, common staples include maize, potato, cassava, rice, and all kinds of tropical fruit (dragon fruit, papaya, guava, passionfruit). Fried plantains, chicken soup, tamales, empanadas, meat pies, and roasted piglet are just some of the delicious popular dishes you’ll encounter.

Overall, the food in Bogotá is cheap. If you’re on a budget, you can easily eat for under 45,000 COP a day here. Whether it’s an arepa (a maize dough bun filled with meat or cheese) for less than 4,000 COP, an empanada for 2,500 COP or ajiaco (a hearty dish of chicken breast, potatoes, fresh corn, and more) for lunch for as little as 15,000 COP, there are plenty of cheap options for eating out in Bogotá when it comes to fast food.

For a mid-range restaurant with table service, expect to pay around 40,000 for a three-course meal. A meal at a higher-end restaurant costs at least 70,000 per course. If you want to have a drink, add around 10,000-15,000 COP.

Fast food (thick McDonald’s) costs about 18,000 COP for a combo meal. A beer at a bar costs about 9,000 while buying it at a store is a little over half that price. A latte or cappuccino costs around 4,800 COP.

My favorite places to eat in Bogotá are Mesa Franca, Salvo Patria, El Chato, and Prudencia.

OXXO stores are a great place to stock up on snacks and alcohol — most are open 24 hours. For a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay around 80,000-90,000 COP.

Backpacking Bogotá Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Bogotá, my suggested budget is 125,000 COP per day. This is assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking some meals and getting a free hostel breakfast, taking the free walking tours, using local transportation or walking everywhere, and limiting your drinking.

A mid-range budget of 230,000 COP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eating cheap street food for most meals, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities like visiting museums and doing a food tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 500,000 COP per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in COP.

Bogotá Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bogotá is fairly inexpensive to visit as it’s not as “gringofied” and touristy as other destinations in the country. I didn’t find myself spending that much money while I was in the city despite not trying to save. But, if you’re looking to save some extra money when you visit, here are my suggested ways to spend less in the city:

• Take a free walking tour – There are a few free walking tours available, making for a great introduction to the city. This is the best (and cheapest!) way to explore while getting a detailed overview of the city and its culture and history. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! I recommend BeyondColombia or the Bogotá Graffiti Tour .
• Eat like locals – It’s easy to eat on a budget here if you stick to Colombian food. Avoid sit-down restaurants and Western food and you can eat for cheap without breaking the bank.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap here, but staying with a local makes it free! Not only will you save some money, but you get firsthand knowledge from a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Cook your own meals – While eating out isn’t too expensive here, if you’re on a budget it is cheaper if you cook your own meals. Head to a local grocery store and save your budget!
• Skip the cocktails – Colombia has a lot of awesome cocktail bars now, but these drinks are expensive. If you’re on a budget, skip the cocktails and stick to beer.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is safe so bring a water bottle with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Walk everywhere – If you don’t mind walking, this is the easiest and cheapest way to explore the city. Most of the main sights are well within walking distance if you are staying in the La Candelaria area.

Where to Stay in Bogotá

Bogotá is a huge city, and it’s divided into different Estratos, or zones. When booking accommodation, be sure to check the area as many areas in the city are unsafe. La Candelaria is the most popular with backpackers, although it is reasonably safe during the day you should use caution at night.

Two areas of the city considered safer are Zona Rosa and Chapinero; they are both more expensive areas, and they are too far away from downtown to walk to all of the main tourist attractions.

With that in mind, here are some of my suggested places to stay in Bogotá:

• Selina (Chapinero)
• The Cranky Croc Backpackers Hostel (La Candelaria)
• Masaya (La Candelaria)
• Botinico Hostel (La Candelaria)

How to Get Around Bogotá

If you like to walk, stay in La Candelaria. All of the main attractions and sights are quite walkable from here, which saves you money on transportation.

If you are staying in another area of Bogotá, or want to travel by public transport to one of the malls or places of interest outside Bogotá, you are going to need to use the TransMilenio, also known as the BRT (bus rapid transit system).

Public transportation – The main method of public transportation is on the TransMilenio. This is effectively a bus service that has its own bus lane in the center of the main roads in Bogotá. If you want to get anywhere fast, it is often far better to travel by TransMilenio than by car, as the traffic in Bogotá can be dreadful.

To travel on the TransMilenio, you need to buy a TuLlave Card for 5,000 COP and then top it up. This needs to be paid for in cash as credit cards are not accepted. Once you have your card, you just tap the card to enter the station where you are charged 2,300 COP. From there, you can make two changes within 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Using the TransMilenio during the day and in the early evening is safe, but I would avoid using public transport after 9pm, especially if you are alone.

To efficiently plan your route on public transport in Bogotá, download an app called Moovit. Google maps can be unreliable, and the TransMilenio App is ok, but they only have a Spanish version.

Taking the TransMilenio from the airport to La Candelaria is the cheapest and quickest way into the city center. It costs 2,300 COP. When you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to the TransMilenio then take a bus to Universidades. You need to get off at Las Aguas and then walk through the park towards the OXXO. This is the start of La Candelaria. If you are staying anywhere else, you can change buses, or take an Uber or Tapsi Taxi.

Taxis – If you want to get a taxi, then download an app called Tapsi or Easy Taxi. They work just like Uber although they won’t charge your card, so you need to pay cash. It is by far the safest way to take a taxi if you need one.

I would strongly advise against taking a taxi off the street in Bogotá. As a general rule, cabs are not safe for tourists, even during the daytime (more about this in the safety section). If you need a ride, ask your hotel/hostel staff to arrange one for you.

The one exception is the airport taxis as they are safe. A taxi from the airport to La Candelaria should cost you no more than 50,000 COP (and probably less). If you are staying in the North of the city it should cost no more than 65,000 COP.

Although Uber is not legal in Colombia, it is widely used and considered as safe as using Tapsi or Taxi Fast.

Bike rental – If you want to rent a bike to get around, bikes cost around 9,000 COP for a two-hour rental. Just stick to main roads to be safe as even bikers can be mugged.

When to Go to Bogotá

Bogotá doesn’t really have seasons, so there is no bad time to visit. Because of the altitude, it is often cold, and it does rain a lot. The drier months are from December to March, so if you prefer to avoid the rain, this would be the best time to go. Expect temperatures around 14°C (57°F).

If you prefer the heat, the warmest months are from May to June where temperatures average around 20°C (68°F).

The busiest time of year to visit Bogotá is during July and August, during Bogotá Carnival. Prices increase a lot during this time and you need to book accommodations well in advance, however, the city is super lively and it’s a fun time to visit if you want to party.

How to Stay Safe in Bogotá

Safety is one of the biggest concerns for people when planning a trip to Bogotá. They have a common saying in Colombia, “No dar papaya” which translates as “don’t give papaya.” What it really means is though don’t give anyone the chance to steal your stuff by walking around and being flashy or reckless. You need to be very cautious here.

That means no walking around with your phone out, never keeping anything in your pockets (especially when on public transport), and always keeping hold of your bag. If you are eating out, either keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. It is very common for someone to try to do a bag swap (meaning they swap their empty bag for yours).

You should also use caution when withdrawing money from ATMs. Avoid the ATMs on the street and go into the bank to use the ATM, that way you can put your money away discreetly without being watched.

There aren’t many common street “scams” in Bogotá. Anything serious is going to revolve around straight-up armed robbery.

Trust me on this. My friend was robbed here. And so was I. I learned what happens when you let your guard down here .

If you do run into any problems, there are tourist police all over the downtown area. Often just shouting loudly can stop a thief in their tracks as the tourist police don’t take kindly to crime against tourists.

Additionally, beware of getting into random taxis as the really serious crime against foreigners here is what is commonly referred to as “paseo millonarios” (“millionaire rides”). The taxi driver picks up a tourist (quite often a solo traveler or a couple) and then makes a stop to pick up some ‘”friends.” They then take the passenger(s) to an ATM and make them withdraw as many pesos as they can get. They continue to drive the tourist around, usually by gunpoint to different ATMs until they have withdrawn all of the money possible. Then they will leave the tourist somewhere to make their own way back. To avoid this, never get in a taxi off the street.

There are a few “no-go” areas in the city, but as a tourist, you shouldn’t ever find yourself accidentally wandering into one of these areas. As a general rule, don’t go south of La Candelaria, and stay over on the eastern side of the city (the mountainside).

I don’t want to be all doom and gloom but, as much as I LOVE Bogotá, there is crime here and you have to really be careful. Do not let your guard down. That doesn’t mean crime is happening everywhere. It’s not. If you use common sense and follow what the locals do, nothing is going to happen to you. I spent so long in Colombia that I let my guard down and that was a mistake.

If you experience an emergency and need assistance, dial 123.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Colombia, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bogotá Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Bogotá Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Colombia and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Bogotá: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Medellín: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Colombia Safe to Visit?

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Colombia?

14 Things to Do in Medellín (and the ONE thing NOT to do!)

My 21 Favorite Places to Visit in Colombia

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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Traveling to Bogota Colombia | The Essential Guide 2024

High in the Colombian Andes sits the city of Bogotá , Colombia one of Latin America’s best-kept secrets. Though once deemed unsafe due to Colombia’s decades-old internal conflict, Bogotá has slowly, but surely, transcended to become a thriving regional hub for culture and the arts. As tempting as it may be to make a bee-line for popular destinations like Tayrona and the Lost City, you truly would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping Colombia's capital city and we consider it a must-see if you visit Colombia. Use this Bogota Travel Guide to discover the best that the city has to offer, from its avant-garde culinary culture and festive nightlife scene, to its well-preserved historic quarter and city center to the warm, convivial people.

Today, Bogotá is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. From its colonial architecture to its vibrant street art, its historic neighborhoods (like la Candelaria) and its world-famous Gold Museum, Bogotá has something to offer everyone.  And with so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that this Colombian gem is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America .

In this complete and up-to-date travel guide, we hope to provide you with absolutely everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip to this magical city.

What You will Find in this Bogota Colombia Travel Guide

• Why Visit Bogota, Colombia

Brief History and Background of Bogota

• What is the  weather and altitude like
• What are the various neighborhoods of the city

How to get to and from Bogota Colombia

• Transportation in and around Bogota Colombia
• How many days should you spend in Bogotá
• Activities and Attractions You Don't Want to Miss

Where to Stay in Bogota

• Best Places to Eat and Drink
• Bogota Nightlife

Escape the city: Things to do Outside of Bogota

• Final Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

Why Visit Bogota Colombia?

According to Nobel Laureate Gabriel Garcia Marquez ,  in Colombia "any gathering of more than six people regardless of class or hour is doomed to turn into a dance.” If that isn’t a reason to visit Bogota, what is? This Latin American metropolis is currently experiencing an unprecedented artistic, culinary and cultural boom you won’t find in other capitals of the region. In just 2-3 days, you can cover the cities main sights and you might even consider extending your trip by another few days to explore all that this up-and-coming city has to offer. In addition, Bogotá is an often necessary jumping-off point to other destinations like Medellin, Cartagena, Tayrona, la Guajira and la Ciudad Perdida, whether you’re traveling by plane, bus or car, so you mine as well take advantage and venture into this thriving metropolis. Finally, the city of Bogotá, surrounded by green peaks, is a spectacular sight to behold. This dramatic backdrop corresponds to its rich history, which extends far beyond the 16th-century Spanish conquest and into the intoxicating energy and optimism pulsating through its streets today.

With over 8 million inhabitants , Bogotá can be an intimidating place to visit for even the most big-city dwellers. A sprawling 1,587 square kilometres (613 square miles), it’s a multi-faceted metropolis with hundreds of gems and nooks to discover. Even the most comprehensive Bogota Colombia travel guide wouldn’t be able to cover the entire city with all of its beauty and intricacies, but we will do our best to share the highlights you simply can’t miss during your visit.

Bogota's Role in Colombian History

Bogotá was founded on August 6, 1538, by Spanish explorer Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who named it after his hometown of Bogotá in present-day Spain. Originally a small indigenous village, Bogotá flourished as a trade center due to its strategic location at the intersection of two major trade routes. However, Bogotá's fortunes changed in the mid-1700s when it was occupied by rebel forces led by Juan del Corral. The city did not recover from this setback until the early 19th century when it began to experience a period of rapid growth. Since then, Bogotá has continued to grow and evolve, becoming one of the largest and most vibrant cities in South America.

Altitude in Bogota

Located in one of the six regions of the country, the Andean Region, in the middle of Colombia, Bogotá sits at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, making it the third-highest capital city in South America, after La Paz and Quito. This doesn’t mean much until you start exploring on foot and quickly become short of breath. In fact, you might even get a little dizzy or nauseous, in which case you’re suffering from altitude sickness, also known as soroche, in the Andes.

Pro tip : To help your body acclimate to the altitude, try and take it easy on your first day; avoid strenuous activities, like hiking. Also, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. A local trick to curing soroche is a panacea - warm agua de panela (melted sugar cane with squeezed lemon) which you can find from street vendors around the city.  

Weather in Bogota

If there’s one thing you don’t need to worry about in Bogotá, it’s the weather. The climate here is moderate throughout the year 7°C-19°C (45°F-66°F), though the rainy season occurs around April - March and October - November. Mist and cloud cover is common in the city, but you can also expect plenty of sunshine. Make sure to always pack a light sweater and rain protection since the temperature may fluctuate throughout the day.

Pro tip : There are really only two seasons in Bogotá, wet and dry, and the sun sets and rises consistently throughout the year, around 6:15 in the morning and evening. As soon as the sun drops over the horizon, expect the temperature to drop significantly; make sure to bring a light sweater or jacket.

Neighborhoods in Bogota Colombia

Bogota is organized into 20 Districts, and a few of them can’t be missed. Among these are: La Candelaria (the historic city center) Chapinero-Zona T , the Zona Rosa , La Macarena in Santa Fé, Parque 93, and Usaquén's colonial center. If you’re not sure where to start, head to the colonial neighborhood of La Candelaria.

You’ll find that the majority of these neighborhoods, their restaurants and hotels, are found in the north and center of the city, while the South is where most working-class families reside.

There are many ways to get to Bogota. Because the capital of Colombia is in the center of the country as well as the gateway to the South American continent, many flights include a stopover at Bogota’s airport El Dorado . Many international airlines arrive to the city including Iberia, Avianca, Air France, Air Canada, Lufthansa, British Airways, and American Airlines. Another way to get to the capital of Colombia if you are on the continent is by bus from countries like Brazil, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Peru.

If you’re entering Bogota by plane, you’ll most likely land in El Dorado International Airport ( BOG ), which offers travelers many connections and direct flights to other countries in the region, as well as domestic flights to Colombian destinations.

Pro tip : Are you looking for some affordable domestic flights? Check out wingo.com. Viva Air & Air Colombia tend to be the cheapest (though their customer service could improve and they tend to nickel and dime you with extras - print your boarding pass in advance!) So, if you can, choose Avianca or Copa instead.

Bogota’s main bus station is called El Terminal de Transporte de Bogotá (Terminal Salitre). If you’re traveling from a neighboring country by bus, this is where you’ll end up. It’s also only a short taxi ride away from the airport.

There are two other bus stations in Bogota that are useful to know. They are La Terminal del Sur (South Terminal) located along Autopista Sur at Carrera 59 in La Bosa and Terminal Satelite del Norte (North Terminal) located on Calle 192, #19-43 off of Ave Carrera 45.

Transportation in and around Bogota

As you travel around Bogotá, you’ll have numerous options to choose from to explore the city.

TransMilenio BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system

TransMilenio BRT is an affordable and efficient way to get pretty much anywhere in the city. Note that the buses tend to get crowded around rush hour and as always, practice good safety measures and keep a close eye on your phone and possessions.

Pro tip : A few helpful apps to get around Bogotá include MoviliXA, Moovit and Google Maps (download an “offline map” of the city to save on data). Figure out your route while you have wifi so you don’t miss your stop on the TransMilenio!

Apart from the TransMilenio, there are regular buses to get you around town. Getting around on these may require a bit more research; make sure you know which bus to take and where to hop off.

Taxis and Ubers

are another good option to get around Bogota, though Ubers are technically not legal. Drivers may often ask you to sit in the front to avoid raising suspicion among police. In terms of safety, always try to have your taxis radioed in or use Uber, which also tends to be the cheaper option. If you’re taking a taxi, ask a local (or your hostel staff) about the price to avoid getting ripped off, though most taxis will use a meter.

Another great option if you like to cycle is to rent a bike as Bogotá has the most extensive network of bike paths in the country. Cycling is a great way to explore the city’s nooks and crannies and skip its notorious traffic jams. If you want to cycle but feel disoriented, look into joining a bike tour ( Bogota Bicycle Tour is a great option)

The Best Time to Visit Bogota

There really is no wrong time to visit Bogotá. Since the weather is pretty consistent, the only other factor you should consider are national holidays and high tourist seasons.

In terms of national holidays, December is a festive time to visit and, if your trip coincides, make sure to explore the Festival of Lights in Villa de Leyva , just outside the city. In March, you’ll be able to check out the Estéreo Picnic Music Festival , Colombia’s biggest alternative music festival, and one of the most recognized across South America. Then, during the summer, there’s Bogota’s Festival de Veranos that showcases performances in Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park concert stage as well as other venues across town.

In September and October, you can attend Bogota’s International Jazz Festival or its International Film Festival , respectively. Both events attract region-wide spectators and feature internationally recognized musicians and films.

In terms of high tourism season, these coincide with the dry season between December and February and the summer months from June to August.

What to do in Bogota - Must-See Attractions

When visiting Bogota, expect to have a few jam-packed days of exploration. There are seriously so many things to do in Bogota, it can get overwhelming, so here are some of our favorite activities:

Cerro de Monserrate / Mount Monserrate

You can’t miss it, it’s literally the mountain looming over the city, known for its panoramic views and a sacred church, the Montserrat Monastery. This is an ideal activity for one of your first days in the city, since it provides excellent perspective on the city’s sheer size. To reach the top of Monserrate , you can either take a cable car or hike. Both are awesome in their own right. Given the city's high altitude, if it's one of your first days in the city, the cable car might be the move. if your body is more acclimated, or you're feeling up for the challenge, the hike up is beautiful as well.

pro tip : Arrive around 4pm to ensure you are there for sunset and reserve dinner at San Isidro. As lines can get long during busy times, you can buy tickets online .

Visіt the Historic La Candelaria neighborhood

Full of colonial buildings, a visit to La Candelaria is like traveling back in time. While exploring, make sure to order a cup of chicha , eat tamales and stop through Plaza de Bolivar, Calle de Embudo, Primada Cathedral, San Francisco Church, San Agustin Church, and Carrera Septima street, where you’ll often see street performers.

Although being the smallest district of Colombia's capital, La Candelaria offers a tremendous diversity of heritage infused in each of its cobbled landed streets

City tours are probably one of the easiest ways to explore Bogota, and there are a number to choose from, like food tours, street art tours, free walking tours ( Gran Colombia offers a free walking tour daily at 10am and 2pm) and bicycle tours. You can find several options with a simple Google Search or on Tripadvisor.

Graffiti Tour

Not everyone wants to show their work in a gallery or display it in conventional ways, and Colombia's graffiti artists have been years ahead of the game when it comes to utilizing unusual public spaces to display and inspire a new generation of art fans.

With the declassification of graffiti from a crime to merely a "violation" Bogotá has become a mecca for home-grown and international artists alike.

Take a graffiti tour of Bogota and you'll find yourself immersed in Colombia's history as well as its present, because the city's street artists are constantly finding new methods to express everything the country has gone through. Graffiti artists and collectives take inspiration from the lives of everyday people, and their work often serves as a mirror for society at large. Hearing the stories behind the art will surely leave you with a whole new appreciation for Colombia.

A Bogota graffiti tour will not only introduce you to Colombian art, but it will also bring you into the beating heart of the Colombian capital. Look for unique architecture, vendors selling juice from exotic tropical fruits, and dark gloomy cafés where some of Colombia's greatest writers produced their works, during your trip around the city.

Famous Bogota Museums

Compared to other South American capitals, Bogota has some top-notch museums you should definitely make time to visit. All the museums are easy and relatively cheap to access

Museo Botero

Museo Botero is considered one of Latin America's most important international art collections, containing works of renowned Colombian painter and sculptor, Fernando Botero - considered the most recognized and quoted living artist from Latin America

The Gold Museum

Named by National Geographic magazine as one of the most important museums in the world , Gold Museum along with the likes Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (Poland), and the Vatican museums (Italy), the Gold Museum boasts over 34,000 gold pieces, a breathtaking collection of gold artifacts from Colombia’s pre-hispanic indigenous cultures and in our opinion should not be missed.

Pro tip: The Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm, and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Touring the whole museum will take about 3-4 hours (although of course it can be done in less if your in a time crunch). Entrance is ~$1 USD and there are daily free tours in English and Spanish which are well worth it, to dive deeper and learn the remarkable histories of Colombia's indigenous peoples.

The National Museum of Colombia

Housed in an old prison, the National Museum and so its architecture Founded in 1824, the museum houses 20,000+ artifacts, antiquities, and works of art from pre-colonial to colonial through the revolution and present-day.

Art Galleries

Bogotá has a thriving art scene that you can explore by touring its art galleries like:

La Silueta Casa

Instituto de visión, la ciclovía.

Every Sunday, major city streets are closed off to all vehicles other than bicycles , encouraging locals to get on their bikes and ride! And that’s not all, in Carrera 7, from Parque de La Independencia in La Macarena to Plaza Bolivar, you can enjoy an impromptu street party with street musicians, performers and vendors.

This pedestrian street goes from Plaza de Simon Bolivia up to the National Museum. Since it’s closed to vehicles, it’s a wonderful route for a stroll and an opportunity to enjoy street performers, street art and eat tasty bites from the street food carts.

Teatro Colon

One of the oldest opera houses on the continent, Teatro Colon opens to visitors regularly for performances by world-renowned artists in dance, theater, music and more.

What better way to explore a new city than by visiting its markets. (You’ll also be able to stock up on souvenirs and gifts.) Some of the best markets in town are Chapinero Farmers’ Market , Paloquemao , and Usaquén Market. Keep your eyes open for delicious chocolates, world-famous Colombian coffee, ceramics and even hammocks.

If you like combining gunpowder with beer, you’ll probably like Tejo. This is a national sport that involves throwing metal discs at a ceramic board. If you hit the right spots, you win points and are also rewarded with a loud blast and spark from a small packet of gunpowder. Checkout Anthony Bourdain’s hilarious demonstration of playing Tejo during his trip to Colombia. This is the perfect activity if you’re traveling with a group of friends. Where is such an activity accessible, legal and pretty safe you might ask?: Club de Tejo La 76 For some do’s (and dont’s), check out this awesome clip of Anthony Bourdain playing Tejo during one of his many trips to Colombia.

Learn to Salsa Dance

Even with two left feet, you’ll enjoy learning salsa in Colombia, one of the world’s salsa capitals. After a couple of classes, head over to Galería Café Libro to put your moves to the test (classes are also often offered here before the night begins).

Watch a Live Soccer Game

If you want a real South American experience, head to El Campín Stadium , where soccer games are regularly hosted for Colombia’s national soccer team and other professional league teams like Millonarios FC and Santa Fe.

After exploring Bogotá for a couple of days, you might need a retreat from its constant hubbub.

Bogota’s Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are an oasis within the city itself featuring an amazing variety of plants and trees from every region in Colombia including greenhouses with all types of climates, ponds

Simon Bolívar Metropolitan Park

Located nearby the garden is the city’s primary greenspace that has a lake and paths for walking or running.

From the north othe city, you can take the Quebrada la Vieja páramo trail all the way up the Cerros Orientales (Eastern hills). While access is free, you need to make a reservation online in advance.

On the outskirts of Bogotá you’ll find la Calera, a popular weekend destination for locals because of its natural surroundings, impressive views and delicious colombian food. La Calera can easily be reached by taxi from Bogotá.

Day trips from Bogota

If you have a full day to spare during your visit, check out one of the following day trip destinations.

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral

Located about an hour’s drive from Bogotá, this was a salt mine for the indigenous Muisca people that inhabited the region prior to the Spanish invasion. Much later, it was turned into a Cathedral, which explains the gigantic cross in its final chamber. If you like, you can travel to Zipaquirá by train .

La Chorrera Waterfall

Colombia’s tallest waterfall (590 meters) and is only 1 hour and 40 minutes from Bogotá. Take the Transmilenio south to Tercer Milenio then head to the nearby bus station to grab a bus to Choachi.

Villa de Leyva

Another worthwhile day trip is a visit to, a colonial town about 3.5 hours from Bogotá by car or bus. The town, having been well preserved since its founding in the 16th century, provides visitors a glimpse into what life might’ve looked like, back in the day.

Laguna de Guatavita

historically a sacred lake to the indigenous Muisca people, and the site of gold rituals is, today, a lush, protected area only 1.5 hours from Bogotá. While you’re there, check out the hot springs in Sesquilé.

Where to Eat in Bogota

Foodie or not, you’ll be blown away by the gastronomical options and variety in Bogotá. While you can buy many local classics like arepas, empanadas and soups all over the city, there are a few spots in town renowned for the quality of their food that you simply can’t miss.

• Andrés Carne de Res is truly a unique experience, not just a restaurant. The original Andrés Carne de Res is located about 45 minutes outside the city and is well worth the trek. While a closer Bogota location exists, if you can make the time, the original is 100% the way to go. As its name implies, the speciality here is grilled meat, though there are many vegetarian dishes you can also sample, like plátano maduro relleno de queso y bocadillo (baked plantains stuffed with cheese and guava), and arepas de choclo (sweet corn cakes). Later in the evenings, especially on Saturdays, the restaurant transforms into a nightclub with performances and lots of dancing - Colombian style.

Near Candelaria, you’ll find a number of other delicious spots, like Prudencia , built in a renovated colonial French-style home, and only open for lunch (vegetarian option available), and De Una Travel Bar , where you’re find a variety of South American dishes in a laid-back environment.

If you’re looking for a local favorite, check out La Puerta Falsa , renowned for its delicious tamales , and located just a block from la Plaza de Bolivar. Finally, Capital Cocina transports you straight into a Colombian home with its mouth-watering soups, grilled chicken and steak.

Finally, if you’d like something a bit more modern, visit the beautifully decorated Madre for their brick oven-baked pizzas and cocktails.

Only a 2-minute walk from Museo Botero is El Son de Los Grillos, a charming spot that fuses international cuisine with traditional Colombian recipes. You can’t go wrong at la Chichería Demente with its open style, industrial layout and decor. Nearly all ingredients are locally-sourced and it’s a great place to go with a group to taste a variety of dishes.

Pro tip:   While exploring the city, keep your eye peeled for Juan Valdez and the BBC - Bogota Beer Company. These two chains can be found throughout the city and are a great alternative for when you need a quick coffee or bite to eat. They are especially useful on Sundays when nearly everything else is closed.

Best Nightlife in Bogotá

If you like a good party, you’ve come to the right city; Bogotá has a popping night scene. When in doubt, head to Chapinero’s Zona T with many bars and nightclubs to choose from.

Before partying, grab a few cocktails in the luxurious Red Room or, if you prefer drinks with a view, head to Apache Bar , located on the 10th floor of the beautifully designed (and very pricey) Click Clack Hotel overlooking the city. Llorente, another good spot, is found in the Quinta Camacho neighborhood, offers live music, food and drinks in an elegant environment.

If you’re looking to practice your Spanish and make new friends, head to Vintrash on a Tuesday night for Gringo Tuesday. After practicing your Spanish or English, you can practice your dance moves and get down to some reggaeton.

For the hard core partiers among you, head to Theatrón , known as one of South Americas best  gay bars. But all are welcome here and there’s more than enough space, since the club spans 5 stories and 13 dance floors. Other good places to dance include Kukaramákara , a typical Colombian bar, Armando Records ,  a multi-level bar with a variety of music and cool rooftop, and el Bembé, a cuban salsa joint with excellent mojitos.

Given the sheer size and demographic mix of Bogota, there are thousands of accommodation options to choose from. Finding one that is well-situated and also fits your budget can be overwhelming. Although you can find tons of options on Tripadvisor or hostelworld, below are a few of our favorites:

Click Clack Hotel

If you're looking for a modern luxury option (and willing to spend a little extra) check out Following up on the success of their sister location in Medellin, they do a great job of creating beautiful experimental design. Located next to Park 93 in one of the city's key cultural and business hubs.

The Four Seasons

For a top-notch luxury accommodations, this is truly a thing of beauty. This 1946 building, complete with stone columns, beamed ceilings and hand-carved details, has recently been declared a Monument of Cultural Interest by Colombia’s Ministry of Culture. Located in Zona G, the hotel is steps from many of Bogotá’s five-star restaurants.

If you're an adventurous traveler looking for a quality, yet affordable option, as well a place to meet other travelers, hostels are a great choice. You’ll find many hostel options around la Candelaria which, apart from being a lovely colonial district, is also the most convenient spot from which to explore the city and its main sites. Access around la Candelaria to public transport is easy, and you’ll find many places to stop for some delicious home brewed Colombian coffee, lunch, or an evening drink.

The Dreamer

Dreamer Bogotá, (opening in 2023) is located in La Candelaria, is a recently renovated and an excellent option for those that want a cozy, comfortable and conveniently located home base while visiting Bogotá. It overlooks the park, Parque de los Periodistas Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and also has panoramic views of Cerro de Monserrate.

"Casa Dreamer” is built in a colonial building and offers a rooftop terrace, a communal dining & entertainment room with a fireplace, bar and restaurant, all built around a lovely interior courtyard. After a day out on the town, “the casa” is a great place to unwind, relax and cozy up by the fire. Did I mention there is a sauna? If you're planning on staying in la Candelaria neighborhood this is a great option.

Bogota: Final Thoughts

Bogota is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to party all night, dance the salsa, or take in some of the city's rich history and culture, Bogota will not disappoint . With a vast array fo neighborhoods to explore, from La Candelaria to Chapinero-Zona T, and the Zona Rosa, you will find yourself with plenty to explore. With so many accommodations and nightlife options to choose from, we hope we have given you just a taste of what this amazing city has to offer. Be sure to add Bogota to your list of places to visit in 2022!

Travel Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is bogota safe.

Yes. Despite its tumultuous history involving guerilla groups and drug cartels, Bogota, and much of Colombia, is considered perfectly safe. In fact, likely because of its history, great effort has been made to ensure Bogotá is a safe city for travelers of all types. That said, as in most other Latin America capitals, certain precautions will always be necessary, but most of these are common sense.

Generally speaking, apart from the most visited neighborhoods like La Candelaria, Chapinero-Zona T, the Zona Rosa, don’t wander around areas of the city that you’re unfamiliar with. Also, in the evening, always try to take a safe taxi or Uber, rather than a random taxi off the street.

Pro tip : No dar papaya . This is a colloquialism that literally translates to “don’t give papaya.” In other words, don’t give people the chance to steal your possessions. Always keep an eye on your personal belongings, also, don’t flash your cash, letting people know how much money you’re carrying. Particularly on public transport, be cautious when using your phone publically and keep valuable in your front pockets.

How many days should you spend in Bogotá?

Try to set aside at least two days, if not three, to explore Bogotá. This will give you enough time to visit its best museums (like the Museo del Oro , which is stunning!), wander through the la Candelaria district, and eat at some of its top-rated restaurants.

What should I pack?

Apart from a rain jacket (or an umbrella which can be purchased on the street, if need be!), all you really need in Bogotá are comfortable shoes, a sweater or light jacket for the evenings and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, possible a light long-sleeved shirt).

The riches you won’t find in Colombia’s breathtaking Caribbean beaches and its lush tropical rainforest can be found in Bogota’s museums, parks and along its cobblestone streets. To close this Guide to Bogota, here are a few final tips you should keep in mind during your journey.

Though younger Colombian generations are well-equipped in English, most of the population won’t speak it well. Brush up on your Spanish before (and during) your trip to facilitate your travel experience and to interact more authentically with locals.

Bogota is an entire world in and of itself. If you have some time to spare, consider spending more than two nights here. A more reasonable timeframe would be 3 nights and 4 days - you really won’t regret it!

Heading to the coast after your visit to Bogotá? Check-out our Costal Guide and Tayrona Park Guide

36 Hours in Bogota Itinerary

With only a day and a half in Bogotá, you’re not going to know where to begin! Here is our recommended 36-hour itinerary.

7:00 am: Start early and head to Monserrate before the crowds arrive. You’ll find a breakfast spot behind the church.

9:30 am: Join a Bogota Bike tour or a free walking tour

12:00-2:00 pm: Lunch at Prudencia

2:30 pm: Visit the National Museum

4:00 pm: Bike or walk along Calle 7

7:00 pm: Dinner at Andrés Carne de Res

9:00 am: Visit the Museo de Oro (entrance fee is $4mil COP, open Monday – Saturday and free on Sunday).

11:00 am: Depending on how quickly you made it through the Museo de Oro, you might have time to visit the Botero Museum

1:00 pm: Lunch at De Una Travel Bar

2:00 pm: Go on a Bogota Graffiti Tour

Looking for more things to do on your travels through Colombia?

If you are headed to The Caribbean Coast after Bogota, check out our comprehensive guides to Tayrona Park and Santa Marta . If you are planning on staying on San Andres Island, and looking for a nice place right near the beach, and within walking distance from the airport, check out the brand-new Dreamer Beach Club . If you're planning on exploring Parque Tayrona and decide to stay outside the park, both Dreamer Santa Marta or Dreamer Palomino are great options as well. They have a pool, restaurant, bar, and comfortable rooms making it an excellent option to relax and unwind before or after your trip. With partnerships with the top tour providers, they can help organize and plan your trip to the park and surrounding areas including The Lost City Trek, Scuba Diving, Cabo de la Vela & Punta Gallinas

For more information on activities or tours or general questions about the area, don’t hesitate to give us a shout! We’re here to help you have the best time possible and hope you will love the Colombian coast just as much as we do!

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How to Spend a Wonderful Three Days in Bogota, Colombia: The 2023 Edition

Bogota is the capital of Colombia , a misty city hidden at almost 9,000 feet above sea level in the Northern Andes. It was built between two mountains, Guadalupe and Monserrate. Surrounded by mountains, it offers a balance of nature and city.  

Once ruled by the Chibcha Indians indigenous to this region, the city was taken over by European settlers in 1538 with the arrival of Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada. At the time the city was called Bacata. 

In 1819, Simon Bolivar returned the city to Colombia, at the time known as Gran Colombia, with his victory in the Battle of Boyaca. It was made the capital in 1821. 

Why Bogota over other cities? 

Cartagena is the prettiest city in Colombia, Cali is the epicenter of salsa, and Medellin is surrounded by charming villages, but Bogota? It offers something entirely different. The capital of Colombia isn’t the most beautiful city, but it has an authentic charm that surpasses the facades of its buildings and entices a different kind of traveller.

If you want a real taste of Colombia, in its unfiltered form – go to Bogota. The city center is colonial and colorful, though it’s nowhere near as commercial as Cartagena. There are arepa stalls and local restaurants around every corner, and an amazing nightlife that will draw you out of your hotel room at night. 

Another thing that will enchant you about Bogota is the people. Because Bogota isn’t as touristy as other areas of the country, the locals are extremely friendly and seem to be determined to make your time there as good as possible! I noticed this from the minute I arrived. 

I jumped in a taxi and soon I was having a long chat with the driver, who gave me restaurant recommendations, advised me on the best ways to get around the city, gave me a list of must-see attractions, and warned me about which neighbourhoods of the city to avoid. 

Other cities are more beautiful, but the influx of tourism has made the locals more distant (in Cartagena they can even be quite rude at times!). Bogota also isn’t over-commercialized, so you get great value for money on tours, dining, and accommodation. 

How many days should you spend in Bogota? 

When I visited Bogota, during my three-month trip in Colombia, I spent a week there. I think that’s a little longer than you realistically need. I spent one of the days resting and recovering from a long night bus down from the northern coast of the country, and another two sorting out paperwork and doing some long overdue shopping at malls (something I always put off for as long as possible).

But if you’re purely in Bogota for pleasure, and you’re a bit tight on time, you can squeeze in all the main attractions, plus enjoy laid-back evenings in the city center, in three days. I’d recommend booking four nights of accommodation so you’ve got three full days in Bogota and you’re not tired from travelling on one of them. 

A long weekend in Colombia’s culture-filled capital will rekindle your sense of adventure and have you planning your next trip back! 

Here’s a straightforward and versatile three-day itinerary for Bogota:

Day 1: Explore the best of La Candelaria 

Spend your first day in the La Candelaria neighbourhood visiting all the most famous landmarks, museums, cultural hotspots, and monuments. Start the day off in Plaza Bolivar, the most famous plaza in the city.

This huge square is surrounded by governmental buildings like the mayor’s office and museums, as well as Colombia’s Palace of Justice, the Cathedral of Bogota, and the Capitol Building. Most of the buildings surrounding the square date back to the 16th century. It’s a great place to start the day as it’s close to lots of other must-see attractions.

When the Spanish reigned Colombia they ran markets on the square, and bigger events like bullfights! Nowadays it’s a lively square that always has great people watching. When I was there I saw a man clipping pigeons’ toenails, a peculiar sight that I’ll never forget. 

Afterwards, make your way to the Museo de Santa Clara which is right around the corner. This 17th century church was deconsecrated in the 1960s and turned into a museum. The church walls are decorated with over 148 baroque paintings, making it one of the most beautifully decorated churches in the country! 

Carry on to the Casa de Nariño, which is just a five-minute walk away from Plaza Bolivar and a few minutes away from the Museo de Santa Clara. It’s the president’s official home and has a Neoclassical facade and a grand interior. You can explore the luxurious rooms of the house on a free tour, they run Monday to Friday. Bear in mind you will need to book at least five days before! 

Next head on over to the Museo Botero which is a 10 minute walk away. Botero is possibly the most famous Colombian artist in the world, and he’s certainly revered by the Colombians! His artwork is unique and fascinating, portraying human bodies that are completely disproportionate and often have large bottoms and huge heads. 

By now you’ll probably be a little bit tired and oversaturated from sightseeing, so try chicha in La Candelaria before continuing. Chicha is an alcoholic drink made from fermented corn that is popular across Central and South America. In fact, it’s the oldest alcoholic drink in the country. It’s usually served warm, which is perfect on a cold and cloudy day in Bogota. 

There are lots of bars where you can try it, especially on the streets around the Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo which is just 15 minutes walk away from the Casa de Nariño and five minutes away from the Botero Museum. Afterwards, have a late lunch in one of the many local restaurants in the area. Be sure to try different local favorites like tamales and arepas! 

For lunch most Colombians order a “menu del dia” (menu of the day) which is always hearty and cheap, often costing around two dollars. You get soup, fresh juice, and a main with most menus. 

End the day at the Museo de Oro. Bogota has some fantastic museums and lots of points of interest when it comes to culture dotted around the city, but the Museum of Gold is the best. It’s been rated amongst the best museums on the planet, next to others like the Vatican museums and Pergamon Museum. 

Inside, you’ll be dazzled by the 34,000 gold pieces in the museum, the majority of which belonged to the indigenous peoples of pre-colonial Colombia. In each glass cabinet, there are intricate and peculiar figures carved out of solid blocks of gold. 

Many of the small figurines represent different pre-colonial deities and other pieces were used in rituals. The elegant jewelry pieces decorated the bodies of rulers and religious leaders. 

Two of the most iconic pieces on display are the figure of a Muisca indigenous man on a golden raft (which was my personal favorite, I could spend hours looking at it) and a gold poporo quimbaya.

After all your exploring, stop at a local cafe and enjoy some people watching accompanied by a cup of “cafe de olla”. This sweet and cinnamon-scented coffee isn’t for everyone, but it’s cheap and warming! 

Day 2: Go on a tour

I’m not usually a big fan of tours, but when you’re only stopping in a city for a few days they can be really convenient. Because of the humorous and friendly nature of the Colombian people, they’re also far more fun than in most countries. Couple this with the fact that they’re very affordable and there’s no reason not to go on a tour or two in Bogota. It’ll save you time and the hassle of planning! 

Some of the best tours I did during my time in Bogota were super simple, and didn’t cost much more than $10. I started with a free walking tour with BeyondColombia, which gave me a great sense of how the city was laid out and some basic information on the main landmarks. 

That same day I went on a this bike tour , which was great as I got to explore further away neighbourhoods that would take ages to reach by foot. I don’t usually enjoy riding bikes much, but I’m glad I gave this tour a chance—I really loved it! You can check availability for the tour below:

Another tour worth considering if a bike tour isn’t your thing is the Bogota Graffiti tour . There’s lots of hidden artwork around Bogota that would take days to find by yourself, so this tour is perfect for enthusiastic art lovers that want to see the peculiar, colorful, and sometimes political artwork that decorates the streets of Bogota. Again, you can check availability for the tour below:

Now, whilst there’s loads to do in the city, there are a few tours worth considering if you’d rather get out of the city on one of your days here. Needless to say, you’ll need to pick one as you won’t be able to fit them all in, but here are some options worth looking into! Bear in mind you can reach these places via public transport and go independently if you’d rather not take a group tour. 

La Chorrera Waterfall is just an hour outside of Bogota and it’s the highest waterfall in the country. Taking a tour there costs somewhere between 250,000 ($50) and 500,000 COP ($100). 

But given that the entry fee to the park is 35,000 COP, and a guide costs 40,000 COP, plus you’d be looking at spending around 15,000 COP on the Tercer Milenio bus to get there and back, it’s not that much cheaper to do it yourself in this case. Other than the waterfall there are some awesome caves and a lookout point at La Chorrera.  

Alternatively, go to the town of Zipaquira and spend the day visiting the Cathedral of Salt which was built by miners inside the old salt mine 200 meters below ground. The cathedral is really impressive, especially considering it was built by humble miners who simply wanted a place to worship. This is a great example of how dedicated Colombians are to their faith. 

I also thought Zipaquira itself was worth visiting. The colonial architecture that characterizes the town and the large church on the main square was stunning. 

Another tempting tour from Bogota is the Laguna de Guatavita. It was once a ceremonial site where indigenous people worshipped the goddess of the water, Chie. It’s also the home of the El Dorado legend, which was so magnificent it attracted the Spanish to this land in the sixteenth century. 

According to legend, the Muisca Indian chief used to sail out onto the lake on a wooden raft with four priests. He would then throw in treasures made of pure gold before submerging himself in the waters of the lake, in honour of the gods. This led the Spanish to try and drain the lake on several occasions, in an attempt to recover the lost gold. 

Years ago there was an old town, called Guatavita, nearby that was once the religious capital of the Muisca people. They produced exquisite metalwork there. Sadly, it was inundated by the Tomine Reservoir. Now, a replacement town has been built, also called Guatavita.

If you can’t choose between these tours, then your best option is a combined tour of Guatavita and the Cathedral of Salt! 

When you get back that evening from whichever adventure you choose to go on, make your way to La Zona Rosa. There are loads of bars and clubs here, and there’s no excuse for leaving Colombia without getting a little tipsy drinking aguardiente.

Aguardiente is Colombia’s equivalent of what Tequila is to Mexico. Admittedly I wasn’t a huge fan because it tastes a lot like licorice, but I still spent many a night drinking aguardiente with local friends. Luckily, it’s often served with a plate of cane sugar that you can nibble on after each shot, which makes it a lot more drinkable! 

Day 3: Hike to Bogota’s famous churches

Two main mountains surround Bogota, Cerro de Monserrate and Cerro de Guadalupe. On the top of each, there is a church that towers over the city! The most famous is Monserrate, though both are worth a visit.

The Monserrate mountain was important to the city even before colonial times when the local indigenous people considered it sacred and named it “quijicha caca” or grandmother´s foot. During the summer solstice in June, the sun rises directly behind the Cerro de Monserrate. 

After the Spanish conquered Colombia a religious group known as the Brotherhood of Vera Cruz were granted permission to build a small religious retreat at the top of the mountain. 

There’s also a statue of Jesus known as El Señor Caído (The Fallen Lord) positioned at the front of the altar which is visited by believers and pilgrims who come to the basilica. Supposedly the statue performs miracles! It was made by Pedro de Lugo Albarracin in 1640. 

The only way to get to the church used to be an arduous uphill hike, but now there’s a funicular railway that opened in 1929 and a cable car that was inaugurated in 1955. It’s never been easier to visit the Cerro de Monserrate and its delightful little church. Both cost just 11,000 COP (under $2.50) each way.  

The best option is to take the cable car or funicular railway up and then walk down the winding two-mile path that takes you back to the city. Though even today the most devoted religious believers still make their way to the top by crawling on their hands and knees, a practice that is especially popular during Easter. 

I’d recommend going around sunset time. The views over the city are spectacular day and night and the church is lit up when it gets dark so if you go to watch the sun go down you can catch all the best views in one trip. There are stalls and little shops at the top too, so you can buy souvenirs to take home or get your hands on a cold beer to enjoy alongside the views! 

The other famous mountain in Bogota, the Cerro de Guadalupe, has a church at the top that was built in honour of Our Lady of Guadalupe, possibly the most important and revered saint in all of Latin America. At the entrance of the church, built on the roof, there is a huge 49-foot high white statue of the saint with her arms opened wide designed by Gustavo Arcila Uribe in 1946 that towers over the rest of the buildings at the sanctuary. 

You can actually see the statue and Guadalupe Hill from Monserrate, so if going up two mountains in one day doesn’t sound appealing you don’t have to miss out entirely! There are various ways to get there, by foot, car, or public transport.

As the mountains are neighbours, getting between the two is pretty straightforward. It’s a half-hour drive from peak to peak (so taking an Uber is a possibility!) or you can get the bus to Guadalupe Hill then walk down and make your way up to Monserrate via the cable car or funicular. The mountains are on the outskirts of the city, just outside of the famous La Candelaria neighbourhood so they’re not too out of the way or off the usual tourist trail! 

Monserrate is more popular than Guadalupe Hill, but both are worth a visit. Bear in mind they get especially busy on Sundays when the locals come to the churches at the top for mass and tourists flock in.

What to know before you go 

Communicating with locals : Some Colombians do speak English, but in general, the level of natives isn’t very high. I’d recommend learning some basic Spanish and taking a pocket-sized dictionary with you. The good thing is, Colombians have a great sense of humour and are very patient, so you’ll have a laugh chatting to the locals, even if it is in very broken Spanish. 

The nightlife : Colombians love to party. I’m yet to find somewhere that has so much music and such a lively atmosphere. They love dancing, and they play every tune at full blast.

Even if you aren’t a dancer, you’ll undoubtedly end up being swept onto the dance floor by a friendly local who swears they can teach you how to salsa in no time! Bearing that in mind, it’s worth learning the salsa basics and getting a sense of the Latin rhythm before you go so you don’t feel like a fish out of water!

How to Stay Safe in Colombia

Colombia was put off the tourist map for half a century by the violent conflicts that broke out between the government and rebel groups across the country. Corrupt governments, terrorizing guerrilla groups, and an economy that relied largely on the production and exportation of cocaine made Colombia unappealing and dangerous. 

Now, it’s mostly the stigma that remains. Outdated perceptions of the country prevent tourists from travelling to Colombia, despite how much safer it’s become. Admittedly, I was one of them! When I began my trip across South America I quickly took Colombia off the list, assuming it was too dangerous. However, I met loads of travelers along the way, and they all said the same thing… “Go to Colombia!” So eventually, lured in by the celebration of the second biggest carnival in the world, I did!

When I got there I was shocked to find a colorful country whose people had an infectious laid-back and joyful way of being. The three months I spent in Colombia were tranquil, fun, and above all, I felt safe! 

Of course, like every city in the world, there are neighbourhoods you should avoid. As a general rule, areas south of La Candelaria (like Boda, Ciudad Bolívar, Kennedy, San Cristobal, and Usme) are off-limits. The neighbourhoods quickly get more shady and dangerous as you move away from the city center. 

Even in La Candelaria, the most beautiful and appealing neighbourhood of Bogota you’ll need to keep a bit alert. Be wary of muggings on Calle 9 and areas south of Barrio Egipto. 

Lots of travellers stay in Zona Rosa if they’re worried about safety. I stayed in La Candelaria and everything was fine, but by that point, I had been travelling around South America for five months and I had a good sense of how to keep myself safe. 

Overall the biggest threat in Bogota is pick-pockets. To prevent having your things stolen, which puts a downer on any trip, follow my top three safety tips:

• Leave your passport and a spare credit card in your room at the hotel. Only take copies of your passport out with you and get a travel card, like Monzo and Revolut, that you top up with enough money for each day along the way.
• Sew a pocket into your waistband that can fit your credit card and a bit of spare cash for emergencies.
• If you’re worried someone is following you, lean against a wall and pretend to be tying your shoes, that way they will walk past you and you can change your route.

How to get around Bogota

La Candelaria is a very walkable neighbourhood in Bogota, and there are plenty of attractions in this area of the city. If you like walking it’s the best neighbourhood to stay in. Personally, I like having everything within walking distance, so I opted for a hotel in La Candelaria during my time in Bogota. 

The most used form of transport in Bogota is the TransMilenio or BRT (bus rapid transit system). It’s essentially a normal city bus but they have their own lanes around the city center, which means you can whizz through the city center and avoid the traffic! They’re cheap and efficient, and because the traffic can get really bad the bus is sometimes quicker than taking an Uber. 

To use the TransMilenio you will need to get a TuLlave card. It costs just 5,000 COP (around $1,25) and then you can top it up. Bear in mind you have to buy the card and top it up with cash, they don’t accept credit cards. Each time you tap into the station with your card you’ll be charged 2,300 COP (some 60 cents), which allows you to make two changes within two hours. 

Don’t use the TransMilenio after 9pm at night, especially if you’re on your own. During the day keep an eye on your bag and put important things, like your money and identification cards, in a hidden anti-theft bag. 

To check bus routes and schedules there is a TransMelnio App, but it’s in Spanish. I’d recommend using an app called Moovit to get around, it’s more reliable than Google Maps. 

Technically Uber isn’t legal in Colombia, though it’s still used and cheap. You can also download the apps Tapsi and Taxi Fast, which offer safe and reliable taxi services. As a general rule, don’t get in a taxi on the street in Bogota. Even during the day, it’s not very safe and you definitely shouldn’t take a public taxi alone. 

That said, it is okay to catch the airport taxis into the city center. A ride from the airport to La Candelaria shouldn’t cost you more than 50,000 COP (under $15). 

Another option is to hire a car, though it’s not really worth it if you’re just staying in the city as the public transport is reliable enough and much cheaper. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit Bogota

The concept of seasons works very differently in Colombia. Instead of a four-season year they have dry and wet seasons, where there’s more and less rain. Because of where Bogota is, it works differently again.

The high elevation of the city means it’s often cold, so pack jumpers and a warm coat, and it does rain quite a lot so an umbrella or a raincoat is a necessity too. The drier months are between December and March, so come then if you want to avoid the rain as much as possible. 

Temperatures tend to range around 14 degrees (57 degrees Fahrenheit), though it gets warmer in May and June and when temperatures average 20 degrees (68 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Weather aside, there are also periods of more and less tourism. If you want to avoid peak tourist season, then don’t plan your trip in July or August. However, that does sadly mean you’ll miss the Bogota Carnival! If you decide that experiencing the carnival is worth putting up with the crowds, be sure to book accommodation far in advance and expect to pay a bit more than usual for your bed.  

Where to Stay in Bogota

There are lots of accommodation options in Bogota, from super cheap hostel dorms starting at $5 a night to boutique hotel rooms that are still extremely affordable! I decided to stay somewhere nice during my time in Bogota to give myself a break from cheap hostel rooms and shared dorms. 

In general, Booking.com, Airbnb, and Hostelworld are all great sites for finding accommodation in Colombia. When I was travelling to small towns I would often just turn up and explore my options once I was there, but Bogota is a big city so it’s easier to book in advance.

My double room in the Lucitania Hotel Boutique was the perfect retreat. The hotel itself is beautifully designed. The spacious and brightly lit rooms with simple and elegant decor are reminiscent of Scandinavian architecture, whilst the hidden outdoor spaces around the property are delightful. I didn’t stay in a suite room, but I imagine they’re even more beautiful than the simple double room I went for!

The breakfast was delicious and the hotel’s proximity to restaurants and many sightseeing spots was super handy. For the price, it’s an absolute bargain!

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

3 Days in Bogotá: A Detailed Colombia Itinerary

March 14, 2024 August 12, 2023

Are you on the fence about three days in Bogotá? Make it a priority and I promise you won’t regret it.

If you’ve never been to Colombia, Bogotá may not be at the top of your list for must-sees on your Colombia travel route.

You may have Cartagena on the list for its beaches and heat or Medellin for its fertile coffee scene. Bogotá’s likely there for its convenient airport, but it often doesn’t get its due among travelers in South America . 

Let me change your mind with this guide to 3 days in Bogotá, my favorite Colombian city.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

How many days do I need in Bogotá?

You need at least two days in Bogotá to see what there is to see in the historic center and spend some time in some of the city’s other vibrant neighborhoods. 

A Bogotá itinerary for three days allows you to take things in a more leisurely fashion, build in time for the city’s best tours, and even spend some time outside of the city if you’re creative. Bogotá is a great base for day trips.

We spent four days in Bogotá. That meant three days in Bogotá proper and a day set aside for day trips. I wouldn’t change anything about that, as this city really opens up the more time you spend there. I’d argue it’s like New York City or Paris in that way.  

What should you visit in Bogotá?

You should try to visit the following in Bogotá:

• Plaza de Bolivar
• La Puerta Falsa
• Gold Museum
• Museo Botero
• Catación Pública

Bogotá Travel Logistics

To get around Bogotá, we mostly used our feet and Uber. Cabify is another rideshare option, but I’ve read mixed reviews about dropped rides and drivers preferring cash. 

Uber is not technically legal in Colombia but continues to operate within a gray area all over Colombia’s main tourist hubs. The courts ruled that ride-sharing services were illegal in Colombia back in 2020, so Uber decided to operate as a car service, instead. 

It sounds sketchy, but both locals and tourists still use Uber to get from place to place at the time of our visit. You should certainly do a quick search for the latest info on this, as regulations across South America change often.

The staff at our Bogotá hotel recommended Uber over taxis because cab drivers are more likely to rip you off. In general, do not take taxis in Bogotá unless it’s from the airport. They have additional measures to protect travelers at the airport. 

If you need a cab from the airport, go to the kiosk at the arrival terminal and tell them where you’re going. It should be a flat fee. You’ll be given a receipt and ushered into an authorized cab.

Better yet, confirm a ride from the airport through your hotel. 

This is what we did. It was on time, safe, and just a touch more expensive than cabs from the airport. This is a big reason I’d book hotels over Airbnb-style accommodations in Bogotá. You don’t get that additional layer of support.

Buses are another option in Bogotá. They’re cheap and run all over the city. As Ubers were also quite cheap and generally more reliable, that’s what we went with for our trip. Paying for transportation sans cash was a nice perk, too. 

3 Days in Bogotá: Day 1

This itinerary assumes a full three days in Bogotá. We arrived the evening before our first full day, so hung around the hotel to rest before getting up and at ‘em the next morning. 

I’m going to dive right in with one of Bogotá’s best tours, but if your hotel doesn’t offer breakfast (ours did!) you’ll want to get an early start for some morning snacks if you need them.

If you’re in Zona Rosa as we were, Café Quindío is a great option for morning pick-me-ups and treats.

We ate what I’d call a “Polish dinner” on our first day in Bogotá due to the length of our tour. That’s basically a midday meal during those dead hours between conventional lunch and dinner. I’ll recommend the same for you here if you’re following the same three-day Bogotá itinerary.

Interested in seeing your potential trip in a more visual way? Check out my Google map below:

GIMME MY COLOMBIA ITINERARY MAP!

Stop 1: bogotá free walking tour.

The tourist agency Beyond Colombia offers free walking tours all over Colombia. Their Bogotá tours include a classic walking tour with highlights about La Candelaria, the city’s historic center, a food tour, a graffiti tour, and a more politically-charged option.

Note: We did a graffiti tour on a different day, but I’ll get into that later. I highly recommend fitting in both if you can to learn about the city’s history and its street art.

As we’re both a little extra , we booked their “War and Peace” tour. It was still free and offered plenty of touristy stops. It just also included detailed information about violent conflicts in the country over the years.

I can’t compare it to their classic walking tour because I didn’t go on that one, but this one was quite a bit smaller. That allows more opportunity for questions and less opportunity for shenanigans from misbehaving tourists. 

Our tour started at 10am. If you’re able to book a free walking tour the morning after your arrival, that’s a great way to get an overview of the city. Ours went over three hours, too, although that included a coffee break for a chat about drug cartels and Pablo Escobar. 

Note: If you’re hungry here since this tour goes through lunch, the cafe will likely have some snacks for you, too!

Our tour guide was a historian, super knowledgeable, and very passionate about victims of violence in Colombia over the decades. I’d highly recommend it.

Make sure to bring some cash to tip your tour guides. Around 10 USD is recommended, which even sounds low once you consider the length and breadth of these tours.

Stop 2: Plaza de Bolivar

You’ll visit the city’s main square on your walking tour, but it’s worth returning to if you felt like you didn’t get enough time there in the big group.

Take some time to check out the Catedral Primada, the largest church in the city and the site of what some historians believe was the first mass in the city. Other buildings of note include the Capitolio Nacional and the Supreme Court of Colombia. 

The Supreme Court was the scene of a bombing known as the Palace of Justice siege. Nearly 100 people died in the siege led by the M-19 guerrilla group and the resulting military raid. Eleven of the dead were Supreme Court justices. 

On a much lighter note, you’ll be treated to locals trying to get you to snap photos with llamas while you’re on the square. They may also be trying to sell you “big ass ants.” You can do better.

Fun fact: This is also the best place in the city to get pecked at by pigeons. They will land on your head if you let them, much to the chagrin of a gal on our tour who was afraid of birds. She didn’t tip our guide, so my empathy didn’t run all that deep for her.

Stop 3: La Puerta Falsa

You’ll see this historic eatery on most Bogotá itineraries as the perfect place to get a taste of a variety of traditional Colombian foods. I can’t say it was my favorite restaurant in Bogotá, but it’s worth visiting for the history and primer on Colombian home cooking.

We didn’t need dinner after this because we over-ordered so aggressively.

You’ll want the Aijaco for sure. That’s a Colombia soup with half a corn cob inside. Then they’re also known for their tamales, which are enormous and mostly unchanged for the last 200 years.

I’m serious. This place has been serving up tamales for two centuries now.

We then had to try the chocolate completo, which is hot chocolate, cheese, buttered bread, and an extra sweet roll thrown in for good measure. It was too much, and yet we finished it all because that’s how you do at Polish dinner.

Expect a wait no matter when you go. We were there after the peak lunch hour but still had to hang around for 20 minutes or so. It’s a small place with tight seating, so make nice with your neighbors.

Stop 4: Gold Museum

We had initially planned to make the trip here before lunch but didn’t realize our tour would take us up to 1:30pm. I’d urge you to plan a visit here no matter when you go, as the Gold Museum, or Museo del Oro, is well-known as one of Bogotá’s best museums.

There are usually some temporary exhibits on the lower levels, but the real goods are on the second and third floors. You’ll learn about gold as a sacred symbol and the many uses for the precious metal. This place gets crowded, so bring your patience.

Once you’re inside, don’t miss the Muisca raft, or the Golden Raft of El Dorado. This is likely where you’ll see tour groups stopping with their guides. This is a gold piece created by the Muisca, an indigenous people in the region, that may depict ceremonies held at Lake Guatavita.

Those ceremonies were the basis of rituals described in the legend of El Dorado. That’s the mythical gold city where new chiefs were purportedly covered in gold and tossed into the lake along with other offerings.

Whether any of this has any basis in fact has been argued for decades, but you really can’t deny the intricate craftsmanship of the raft itself. 

Optional Stop 5: International Emerald Museum

We were too knackered to make this one happen, but as it’s near the Gold Museum, you may have the energy for it. The Museo Internacional De La Esmeralda is a collection of precious gemstones from the perspective of Colombian geology.

There’s the predictable emerald shop on site, too, just in case you’re feeling spendy.

Stop 6: Snacks and Drinks in Zona Rosa

La Candelaria is central to Bogotá’s main museums and attractions, but it’s not ideal after dark. It’s come a long way over the years, but it’s still a hub for opportunists looking for easy marks. The food and cocktail scene isn’t the most impressive, either, as it does cater to tourists.

All of that means it’s not the best area if you’re seeking things to do in Bogotá at night.

As we stayed in Zona Rosa during our stay, that’s what I’d suggest for you as a fitting end to a busy day. We were still full from our ridiculous meal at La Puerta Falsa, but there are plenty of options for a nosh if you’re snacky. 

Bogotá Beer Company handles the beverage side and the food side with an offensive menu of both. There are definitely better breweries in Bogotá, but even locals will tell you that they hang out at this place amongst the tourists.

The friendly gent at our hotel’s front desk called it his favorite “craft beer” spot, which was very sweet. 

If you’re as tired as we were but now also a little tipsy, get yourself to El Carnal. It’s basically an upgraded Taco Bell. If that doesn’t sound delicious to you I’m not sure what to tell you. It helped that those yummy street tacos and burritos were basically next door to our hotel, too.

3 Days in Bogotá: Day 2

You’ll start in the Bogotá city center again today because, despite my safety warnings, there is really so much to see there. Much of the morning is taken up by another tour, but I promise there’s a method to my madness. 

This was the city that really turned me on to walking tours, especially when they’re run by knowledgeable locals with a passion for the topic. Start your day with your hotel breakfast or grab another quick bite at your new favorite coffee shop.

Stop 1: Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen

We really wanted to check out the inside of this church, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen. The interior is supposed to match the candy cane stripes on the exterior. Unfortunately, it was closed despite what the internet told me. 

You’ll likely read that it’s only open in the mornings. That is a lie.

I got to practice my limited Spanish with a security man who spoke to us out of a little hole, so I’m not sure why it was closed or when it’d reopen. I’d still recommend a quick stop just to check out the outside because it really does resemble a holy candy cane.

Fun fact: Iglesia de San Francisco is another option if churches are your jam and you encounter the same issue. Built in the 16th century, this is actually the oldest surviving church in the city. It’s just missing those stripes.

Stop 2: Bogotá Graffiti Tour

It’s another day, another tour here in Bogotá. This one will take you on a tour of Bogotá’s street art. That includes the city’s enormous murals and the less attractive tags on buildings throughout Bogotá.

We booked ours through the Original Bogotá Graffiti Tour. It’s free, highly rated, and, as the name suggests, the city’s first guided graffiti experience. I have a full guide to what you’ll see on your tour but expect to meet in Parque de los Periodistas Gabriel García Márquez.

That’s Journalists’ Park Gabriel García Márquez on your maps.

Stop 3: Bogotá Lunch

It’ll be lunchtime by the time you’re done with your tour. The tour advertises a length of about two hours, but it really depends on your group. We were pushing two-and-a-half hours by the time we were done. 

The tour ends at the Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo, a great spot for a variety of lunch options. We were feeling something a little more hip than the day before, so wandered to Madre. Look for the neon sign off the street that leads you into an airy, bustling space.

We basically made our choices based on what the servers were passing around, which meant pizza with Spanish ham and a salad. 

I think the lunch the day prior was still sitting like a lead balloon in our bellies if you’re wondering about that salad.

Everything was delicious and filling, and the ambiance only made for a more pleasant lunch.

Stop 4: Museo Botero

Museo Botero, or the Botero Museum, was my favorite Bogotá museum. After entering a lovely courtyard, you’ll find works of art here from big names like Picasso, Dali, and Monet. The big draw here, though, is Fernando Botero himself.

Botero loved painting things fatter than they are. That means fat bananas, fat horses, and a fat Mona Lisa. He made himself fat in self-portraits. He painted a depiction of the death of Pablo Escobar, but fatter. It’s all quite amusing, so budget some time for this one, please.

Stop 5: Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia (MAMU)

Follow up that epic art with some quirkier pieces at the Museo de Art Miguel Urrutia (MAMA) . This one is focused on regional artists and temporary exhibits and connects to an art collection with more contemporary pieces. 

There are lots of pieces to see here if you want to peruse it all, and it’s all free.

Stop 6: Palacio Museo Histórico de la Policía Nacional

If you’re looking for weird things to do in Bogotá, I’ve got you. The Palace Historical Museum of the National Police is a little much in terms of the copaganda, complete with video clips of police officers hugging small children. 

You’re here for the Pablo Escobar goods.

I’m being literal here. They have a small room of artifacts related to Escobar’s arrest. That includes various personal items, a cartel money-counting machine, and a roof tile with his blood on it. 

The rest of the museum is weird. If the rooftop is open during your visit, that’s likely a great view of the city. It was closed during our visit.

Optional Stop 7: Museo Santa Clara

This one came highly recommended in other Bogotá travel blogs, and I really didn’t get it. Yes, the Museo Santa Clara boasts a beautiful interior. It’s covered in baroque paintings that are lovely to see.

This was the only place in all of Bogotá that felt like a ripoff, though. We paid around 10 USD per person to go inside the one decorated room, which I would have questioned if I was less of a pushover.

I’m working on it. 

In reading even more recent reviews, it sounds like they’ve raised the ticket prices even higher for some tourists. I say some tourists because it seems like pricing is arbitrary. I saw that one person paid 51,800 COP, which is around 13 USD at the time of this writing. Others say it’s priced fairly.

Honestly, that’s absurd and may signal some corruption at this site. Avoid it unless you have some kind of bucket list for baroque religious art.

Stop 8: Happy Hour in Chapinero

It was time for a drink after that debacle, so we grabbed an Uber with a broken shifter knob to head to Chapinero, my favorite part of the city.

The knob just came right off our driver’s shifter, so that was fun. He kept on keeping on after placing the loose piece in his pocket with a little tap. I admired it. It was much like the Uber driver before him who didn’t have a great grasp of shifting gears when navigating hills. 

It all makes for good stories, right?

In any case, our picks for drinks were Cervecería Gigante and Hanna Hops. I’d recommend both, but if you’d like to comparison-shop, I have a rundown in my Bogotá breweries roundup . 

Stop 9: Dinner in Chapinero

Chapinero is super cute, so you likely won’t want to leave just yet. We grabbed an easy but delicious dinner of noodles and sushi at reasonable prices at WOK after drinks. It was right next door to Hanna Hops, so the convenience factor was a big draw.

You also don’t only need to eat Colombian food while in Colombia. Locals don’t. 

Here are a few more options for restaurants in Chapinero:

• Café Bar Universal : The dishes here are a little pricey for Colombia, but they’re nowhere near what you’d expect in big American cities for ceviches and seafood platters featuring sustainable fish. Reservations are recommended.
• El Chato : Let’s say you want something fancy. This one is on all kinds of lists as one of the best restaurants in Latin America, let alone Bogotá. We were in Colombia to eat cheap, but you don’t have to. Just make reservations before you go.
• Mini Mal : Dishes at this popular eatery are inspired by classic Colombian fare, but their takes on them are new and fresh. Think rabbit arepitas, citrus soups, and braised beef in Amazonian herbs.

3 Days in Bogotá: Day 3

Get an early start today to start your day in an active fashion. You’ll be climbing to Bogotá’s best views today. Its placement on your third day is deliberate. When planning what to do in Bogota in three days, you have to consider the altitude .

If you’re not acclimated to the heights , it can leave you feeling pretty wrecked. You’ll still need to take it slow on day three, but you’ll definitely have better luck with potential symptoms if you wait as long as possible.

Grab a quick coffee and nosh or some hotel snacks for the road and head to the base of Monserrate. 

Stop 1: Monserrate

You can’t start this one after 1pm due to safety concerns, but who wants to hike in the middle of the day anyway? I have a complete guide to hiking to Bogotá’s best views and an easier alternative in a cable car if you’re not interested or able to hike.

It’s a pretty challenging trek , by the way, so there’s no shame in the funicular option. If you do hike, budget a few hours for this activity. Expect to work up an appetite by the time you get down.

Stop 2: Lunch in Usaquén

Take an Uber after your hike to place yourself in another of Bogotá’s hippest neighborhoods. If you have any trouble catching a ride, walk closer to the funicular for an easier pickup.

We were pretty hungry after the workout, so had our driver drop us at Abasto . This was our favorite lunch spot in Bogotá. The decor was very cute, but it’s the food I won’t forget. We shared arepas, chicken empanadas, and rotisserie chicken that was seasoned to perfection.

Everything was flavorful and the service was great. Access English menus online if you’re lost in translation while you’re there.

Stop 3: Coffee Tasting 

Get yourself a little afternoon pick-me-up with a coffee tasting at Catación Pública nearby. This was like a wine tasting but so much cheaper and just as delicious. We learned about everything from Colombian beans to brewing methods with such passion from our guide.

We were impressed enough by it all that we left with a bag of beans to brew back at home. This was definitely one of our favorite experiences in Bogotá after our guided free tours.

Stop 4: Parque 93

We took a long walk next to Parque 93, or Parque de la 93 if you’re fancy. I’ll tell you now that it wasn’t close, but it did allow us to see more of the city as we returned to this area just north of Chapinero. 

If you’re exhausted from your morning hike, pop into an Uber. I definitely won’t judge.

This recreational park is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It’s also home to all kinds of great eateries and bars. While you may not be hungry just yet, you may be interested in a sip of something yummy, especially if you made the walk from Usaquén.

Our pick was El Mono Bandido La 93. There are a few of these breweries around town, but this one is beach-themed. That means beach umbrellas and a sandy area that no one was interested in during our visit. They have a full food menu that looked great, too.

If you want more caffeine after all that, the park is also home to Azahar Café 93 , an offshoot of what many will tell is the best coffee in Colombia.

Stop 5: Zona Rosa

You can certainly linger in Parque 93 if you’d like, as it’s a safe area even into the evening, As you get closer to dinnertime, the burgers looked yummy at El Mono Bandido La 93. The Bombay Lounge , an Indian hotspot near the park, also gets lots of buzz. 

If you’d like to finish up closer to Zona Rosa, you can try another version of the brewery in the park, El Mono Bandido Zona T. 

Zona T and Zona Rosa are interchangeable, by the way. Just go with it.

This version has a giant gorilla out front with a much different vibe than the casual beach escape in the park. They have all kinds of yummy snacks on hand, the same menu of beers, and a slide you can ride down from the top level to the bottom. What’s not to love?

Bogotá Day Trips

I’ve already mentioned that Bogotá is a great city for day trips. If you’re here for longer and want to substitute a Bogotá day trip for one of the days above, have at it. 

I’d argue the city gets less appealing the less time you spend there, but you can’t argue the intrigue around getting into some nature.

We had one big day trip courtesy of our hotel which included Casa Loca in Guatavita, Lake Guatavita, and the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. The tour was super cheap compared to what you’d expect in the United States, but our driver only spoke Spanish. 

If you’re wondering whether I pretended to understand more than I really did, you’d be correct.

To do some comparison-shopping on similar tours, check out these options below:

Our tour started at Casa Loca, an upside-down house with all kinds of Instagram potential inside. Was it a tourist trap? Yes. Did we still have a good time? Also yes.

I must be a super delicate flower, though, because I couldn’t sit in there for very long before feeling a little queasy. 

Guatavita & Lake Guatavita

The town of Guatavita was the next stop after passing the Tominé Reservoir, a hub for watersports. We had a walk around to see the lake views. If you speak Spanish, there’s a museum here that will tell you about the local people. 

Upon arrival at Lake Guatavita, we learned that we had to take a group tour to see the sacred lake synonymous with the legend of El Dorado. All tours are in Spanish unless you book an outside guide who speaks your language.

That guide will still follow along on a large group tour. They’ll just whisper-translate for you along the way.

At no point can you walk up to the lake on your own ahead of your group. You will be yelled at. I’m a rule follower, so am not talking about myself here. 

The group narratives were long and likely informative, but this was the most frustrating tour on our Colombia itinerary. I’m not saying all tours should run in English in a Spanish-speaking country. 

I’m saying it should be easier to book tours on-site in other languages, especially when a guided tour is required to see an attraction. 

The lake itself is beautiful, and you have multiple viewpoints to see it along the way. You’ll continue climbing before trekking back down on your own.

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá was our final stop on our Bogotá day trip. Our guide purchased tickets off the street to cover our admission which felt sketchy as heck, but they cost the same as tickets upon arrival at the ticket booths.

It felt like maybe there was some kind of quid pro quo situation going on. If you visit independently, we encountered no line at the main entrance.

Once you’re inside, you’ll get an audio guide in your native language before starting your self-guided tour. I have a full guide to the rest , but I found it all quite impressive once you start thinking about its construction. This thing is 600 feet underground!

Bogotá Waterfalls

If you love chasing waterfalls, several tour operators offer Bogotá day trips that include hikes to La Chorrera and El Chiflón waterfalls. This one honestly sounds awesome, and I would have considered it with more time in Bogotá.

Here are some tour options for you:

More Things to Do in Bogotá

You’ll inevitably run out of time in Bogotá, just as we did. Here are a few more Bogotá tourist attractions for you to peruse with more time in the city:

• Shop at the Sunday Usaquén Market. We weren’t here on Sunday, but this looks like a great place for local tastes and souvenirs. Pasaje Rivas is another option if you love handicrafts and aren’t here on a Sunday.
• Visit the Museo Nacional de Colombia. The National Museum of Colombia is another option in the city’s historic center if you encounter inclement weather. This is the largest and oldest museum in Bogotá.
• Stroll the Jardín Botánico de Bogotá. Officially known as the Jardín Botánico José Celestino Mutis in honor of the astronomer and botanist in the name, this looks like a lovely urban escape. 
• Tour the Casa De Narino. This is the official home of Colombia’s president. Guided tours of about 45 minutes are available if you request them ahead of time . We just didn’t plan well enough for this!
• Summit Cerro de Guadalupe. As we already hiked Monserrate, we just didn’t have the energy for Guadalupe Hill. This one includes a large statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the top to go along with its stellar views.
• Book a bike tour. If you didn’t love my tour options or just want to peruse other options, there are several tour operators that run bike tours around the city. Here are a few options if you’re interested:

Travel in Bogotá, Colombia: FAQs

Is one day in bogotá enough .

One day in Bogotá is enough if you just want a cursory overview of the city. The city is so big that you may be tempted to just hang out in the historic center, but that would mean you’re not getting to see where the locals frequent.

If you’re seeking things to do in Bogotá in one day, I wouldn’t necessarily follow day one of my Bogotá, Colombia, itinerary, as most of your day will be taken up by your tour. 

I’d suggest starting in the historic center with the city’s best museums, then taking a rideshare to Chapinero or Usaquén for food, drinks, and walkability.

Is 3 days in Bogotá enough? 

Three days in Bogotá is enough to get a feel for the city and potentially plan a day trip out of Bogotá. I’d argue that a full three days in Bogotá proper is best, though. When deciding how many days in Bogotá, 

What is the best month to visit Bogotá?

The best months to visit Bogotá are December through March. You’ll have the best chance at dry weather. January in particular is a great time if you want fewer crowds. This is a popular travel time for locals who want to flee the city for beach weather.

That all said, the best time to travel to Bogotá, Colombia, is whenever you can make it happen. Thanks to its altitude —  Bogotá sits at 8,660 feet above sea level — the temperatures there are fairly consistent throughout the year.

Should I spend more time in Bogotá or Cartagena?

Whether you should spend more time in Bogotá or Cartagena depends on your priorities. If you’re a foodie, you’ll probably prefer Bogotá.

If you want a beach vacation, Cartagena may be more your speed. We spent equal time in both and liked that plan.

That said, I preferred Bogotá.

Can you walk around Bogotá?

You can walk around Bogotá, but it’s not as pedestrian-friendly as some of the big cities in the United States and Europe. Those neighborhoods may look a lot closer together on your map apps than they actually are, too.

If you base yourself in a neighborhood for the day, Bogotá can be quite walkable. Otherwise, you’ll want to make sure of inexpensive rideshare to get yourself from the city center to other parts of the city.

Is Bogotá safe at night?

Bogotá is safe at night if you stick to neighborhoods like Zona Rosa, or Zona T, and Usaquén. La Candelaria has improved over the years, but it’s still not the best after dark.

If you can, stick to groups after dark and keep your wits about you. Don’t flash valuables no matter what time of day it is.

Where to Stay in Bogotá

We stayed in the Zona Rosa neighborhood at the  GHL Hotel Hamilton during our trip to Colombia. I’d highly recommend it for its proximity to restaurants, nightlife, and accessibility to transportation.

Our friends stayed at the NH Bogotá Boheme Royal next door when they found ours was sold out. They enjoyed their stay, so I’d recommend that one, too.

You just need to be aware that it takes a while to get around Bogotá. The traffic is intense, and the city is quite large. I highly recommend you prioritize comfort and safety over being in the historic center during your trip.

If you’re here a few days, you’ll find you don’t want to hang around La Candelaria once you’re done with the museums and tours anyway.

Here for a layover? The Courtyard Marriott Bogota Airport had a shuttle on the hour with affordable, big rooms and a decent on-site restaurant.

Use the map below to browse more options in my preferred neighborhood of Zona Rosa:

Is Bogotá worth going to? 

Bogotá is definitely worth going to and even prioritizing during your time in Colombia. It rewards travelers who are able to spend more there, too.

I wasn’t sure I’d like it based on first glance. It’s busy, gritty, with a historic center that isn’t as attractive as what you may be used to in your travels.

Give Bogotá a chance , though, and you’ll find that this city is busy and gritty but also delicious and vibrant. We had so much fun bopping around the city’s unique neighborhoods. I’d love to give it more time on a return trip.

Ready for Travel in Bogotá, Colombia?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, you should use   Skyscanner . It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

If you’re able to watch flights for a while, you should be able to find a good flight deal to Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport for your trip.

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox. That’s how we booked our own flights to Bogotá from Chicago.

Your Accommodations:  Scroll up for my picks for hotels in Bogotá. I usually use  Booking.com  and  Hotels.com  for our hotel needs. Both offer loyalty programs and now offer listings that are more of the home or condo rental variety, which is great.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try   Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.:  For general travel guides, visit my   Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my   Travel Tools  page. It’s heavy on the text but super helpful for overall trip planning!

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Planning more bucket list adventures?  Check out these guides:

• A Detailed Trip Planner to Incredible Easter Island
• Explore the Best Moia on Mysterious Easter Island
• Hike the Inca Trail the Easier Way!
• Planning a Peruvian Trip? Here’s a Guide
• How to Plan the Best Trip to South Africa

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Can I travel to Colombia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

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Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

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Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Colombia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Colombia.

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Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Colombia?

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Wander-Lush

20 Best Things to Do in Bogota, Colombia (2023)

20 of the best things to do in Bogota, Colombia – including Bogota must-sees, local experiences, and hidden gems. Experience the best of the Colombian capital.

Big, bad Bogota. At least that’s what they told me.

Bogota’s reputation precedes it, and unfortunately not everyone has good things to say about the capital of Colombia .

Locals warned us to watch our step, reciting sad tales of lost possessions and uncomfortable encounters. Some travellers told us to stay away from Bogota altogether.

Never ones to pass on a place based on second-hand information, I was curious to see what Bogota was all about and made room in my Colombia itinerary for a quick visit.

Provided you exercise common sense and read up on other travellers’ Colombia tips before you go, you’ll find that Bogota (like the rest of the country) is a culturally vibrant , welcoming place full of interesting things to see and do.

The Bogota I experienced is a city filled with history, ritual, and the beauty of everyday routine. Sure, Bogota has some of the hallmarks of a large, densely populated capital, but there’s a softer side to it too.

Whether you’re on a quick transit break or Bogota is your first stop on a bigger trip through the region, Colombia’s capital city is more than worthy of a look in.

Here are 20 unmissable things to do in Bogota Colombia that I think every traveller should make time for.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Transparency: I visited some of these places as part of a Bogota City Tour hosted by Impulse Travel. As always, all opinions and recommendations are 100% my own.

Bogota trip essentials

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Colombia on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

STAY CONNECTED: Pre-purchase an eSIM for Colombia from Airalo and get online as soon as you arrive in Botoga (from $9.50).

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre–book a private Transfer from El Dorado Airport to your hotel in downtown Bogota – check prices here on Viator (starting from $27 per group).

WHERE TO STAY IN BOGOTA: HAB Hotel Bogotá (boutique); Hotel Habitel Select (mid-range); Hostal Macondo Bogotá (budget).

Top 5 Bogota city tours & experiences

• Bogota Graffiti Tour in La Candelaria: Walking tour of the murals in La Candelaria urban art district (from $12).
• Bogota Bike Tour: Half-day sightseeing tour of La Candelaria, including street art, fruit markets and a coffee factory (from $20).
• El Paraíso Neighbourhood Tour: Social transformation tour and cable car ride with a local guide (from $50).
• The Bogota Food Experience: Bogota food tour visiting 7 family-run restaurants for Colombian specialty food and street snacks (from $28).
• Specialty Coffee Workshop: Tour of Bogota’s trendiest coffee shops with plenty of tastings (from $34).

Bogota video: Bogota in 2 minutes!

Check out my Bogota City Tour video then read on to find out where it was filmed!

Audio track courtesy of Nekzlo – Bloom ( Vlog No Copyright Music ).

Best things to do in Bogota that no first-time visitor should miss

Here are the 20 attractions, experiences and day trips that I think are worthy of a place on your Bogota itinerary.

1. Head straight up to Monserrate for a panoramic view of Bogota

Whenever I arrive in a new city, my first inclination is to go somewhere high up to get a view and find my bearings. The best place for a city view in Bogota is obviously the city’s highest point, Monserrate.

At 3,152 metres above sea level, Cerro de Monserrate (Monserrate Hill) soars above the city. The mountain was considered auspicious by the area’s indigenous Muisca people (more about them a little later) long before Spanish settlers erected a chapel at the summit in 1640.

The sweeping views of Bogota you get from the top of Cerro Monserrate are unmatched and unmissable. Believe it or not, it’s not possible to get a full panorama – there are parts of Bogota that can’t be seen from Monserrate because the city is just that big.

The best way to visit Monserrate is to ride the funicular up (try to stand in the last compartment to get the best views). In the afternoons, the funicular is swapped out for a cable car. Or, if you’re game enough to follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims before you, you can walk up the hill .

The trail starts from the base of the mountain and goes all the way up to the sanctuary, signposted with the Stations of the Cross towards the top. A word of warning: The climb involves 1,500 stairs and a gain of 400m, so some preparation may be required if you’re not used to hiking at high elevations. It takes around 3 hours to complete.

2. Make a pilgrimage to Monserrate Sanctuary

While it’s worth visiting Monserrate just for the city views, you shouldn’t descend the mountain without first going inside the 17th-century Monserrate Sanctuary . Legend has it the neo-Gothic Catholic church that dominates the site was completed with the aid of eager pilgrims, each of whom carried a single brick for the 2.5km walk up the mountain.

The church’s spartan interior is a match for its all-white facade . On either side of the nave, lavishly decorated nooks conceal icons including a Statue of the Black Madonna (also known as the Morena Virgin), Patron Saint of Catalonia.

It only takes 15 to 20 minutes to cover the church. If you’re lucky, you might end up sharing the pews with a group of modern-day pilgrims like we did.

Just as we were entering, a group of religious devotees who had apparently summited Monserrate on their hands and knees entered through the doors and formed a final procession down the aisle. It was quite a sight to behold.

The sanctuary is open from 10am daily. Entrance is free.

3. Learn about Pre-Columbian culture at the Gold Museum

Being Australian and having grown up with the Gold Rush narrative, I was fully expecting the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) to focus on Colombia’s colonial history and the so-called New World quest for God, Gold and Glory. In fact, the museum examines Pre-Columbian Colombia – that is, the Colombia that existed before the conquistadors arrived.

If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating chapter of Colombian history, the Gold Museum is the perfect place to do it.

Never heard of the Muisca ? You’re not the only one. Colombia’s most prominent indigenous group did pioneering work in metallurgy that is nothing short of breathtaking considering the resources available to them at the time. It should have earned them a name akin to the Zapotecs, Mayans or Aztecs – but alas, sadly not.

Housing the world’s largest collection of gold artefacts (there are more than 6,000 individual pieces of gold on display at any one time), the Gold Museum is your chance to learn about Muisca culture through the ritual objects they crafted from gold and other alloys. The highlight for us was hearing about the ‘real’ El Dorado and seeing an interactive exhibit that simulates the ritual that led credence to the myth.

If you’re visiting alone, definitely opt for the audio guide – it’s worth the extra cost.

History isn’t the only thing the Gold Museum is good for: According to our guide, the museum cafe serves some of the best Colombian coffee in town. Exit through the gift shop for a beautiful range of handicrafts .

The Gold Museum is open daily from 9am-6pm (from 10am on Sundays). Entrance costs 3000 COP.

Tip: Entrance to the Gold Museum is free on Sundays, but it is always very crowded so it’s best to visit on a weekday instead.

4. Roam Bogota’s oldest neighbourhood, colourful La Candelaria

The Gold Museum is conveniently positioned on the edge of La Candelaria, the oldest part of Bogota . After wandering around the dramatically lit museum exhibits, the light of day is a bit of a shock to the system. But trust me, this is one part of Bogota you definitely don’t want to miss.

The only way to explore La Candelaria district is by foot. Take your time as you wander the cobblestones ; soak up every little detail of the crumbling architecture and picture-perfect street scenes .

The next few items on this list of must-sees in Bogota are located in the La Candelaria area.

5. Discover street art & cafe culture on Callejón Embudo

Undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bogotá is to stroll along the narrow street known as Callejón Embudo. Located in the oldest part of Bogotá, it captures the uniquely Bogotano mix of historic charm and modern urban culture with a touch of grunge.

You’ll find Callejón Embudo just off of the Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo , the plaza where the Spanish established the first settlement in what became Bogotá, not far from Plaza Bolívar in La Candelaría. This area is one of the popular areas to stay in Bogotá for backpackers as there are many hostels.

While you can do this as a guided tour either as part of a larger tour of La Candelaría or a graffiti tour , it’s also possible to do on your own since it’s an easy detour from the other sites in La Candelaría. Just head down the narrow alleyway to the right of the small church on the Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo.

You can see lots of neat street art as you walk along the couple blocks of this tiny street. The name ‘Embudo’ literally means bottleneck in Spanish. You can also duck into one of the little bars to enjoy a drink, or check out Casa Galería to enjoy some of that famous Colombian coffee and maybe a sweet treat.

Suggested by Adam from Cartagena Explorer

Tip: If you love street art and cafe culture, another cool neighbourhood to check out in Bogota is Zona Rosa (AKA Zona T) in El Espartillal on the north-east side of the city. It too has pedestrianised streets, and plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs to enjoy.

6. Pop into the Gabriel Garcia Marquez Cultural Center

The Gabriel Garcia Marquez Cultural Center lies in the middle of the La Candelaria neighbourhood. The building was a gift from Mexico to honour Gabriel García Márquez , a Colombian-born writer known for his literary works all over Latin America and the world.

This is just one of many tributes to García Márquez you can find in Colombia. It is unique because it showcases the special relationship between Mexico and Colombia, hence why there is a huge Mexican flag that pays homage to the country where the author spent the majority of his life.

Forget the usual concerns about safety in Bogota : This is one place in the city where you’ll feel welcome and totally at ease.

The building has an intriguing design that consists of two giant circles, one with a tranquil fountain in the centre. When you walk up the stairs, you come to a huge open space where you can relax and admire the views of Bogota’s oldest neighbourhood as well as epic views of the mountains towards the east . This is one of the best places for photos of La Candelaria and the famous Calle 11 .

On the bottom floor, there is a bookshop which is unrelated to the attraction per say but has some great novels for sale and a coffee shop where you can enjoy a drink or a snack. There are sometimes exhibitions on the first floor too, but you must walk up the stairs to the upper floor of the building to really connect with the story of this landmark.

The Gabriel Garcia Marquez Cultural Center is open daily from 9.30am (10am on Sundays). Entrance is free.

Suggested by Daniel from Layer Culture

7. Visit the incredible Botero Museum

The Botero Museum (Museo Botero) is one of the most popular places for art lovers to visit in Bogota. The museum was founded in the year 2000 and has over 200 art pieces including 123 works by Botero himself.

Medellin-born Fernando Botero is one of Colombia’s most famous artists and a keen art collector. His works have been exhibited all over the world and can be found in parks and plazas as far away as Yerevan in Armenia, Barcelona , Singapore, Bamberg and Jerusalem.

The most unique feature of Botero’s work is his characters’ shape: They are all larger than life with rounded figures. Some are humorous, others represent political criticism.

The Museo de Botero is housed in a two-storey colonial mansion with a beautiful courtyard . Apart from Botero’s own paintings and sculptures, you can also see other pieces that used to belong to his private collection. This includes works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Claude Matisse, Henri Monet and other world-famous artists.

The Museum is located in La Candelaria, close to other popular tourist attractions. Entry is free of charge and you should spare at least two or three hours to enjoy the galleries and relax in the courtyard.

The museum is open Wednesday to Monday from 9am-7pm (from 10am on Sundays). Closed on Tuesdays.

Suggested by Pedro from Travel With Pedro

8. Take a social transformation tour of Barrio Egipto

If you want to understand Colombia’s violent past better, do not miss a tour of Barrio Egipto. This district is only a street away from La Candeleria, the popular hub of Bogota’s nightlife and cultural scene. Until a couple of years ago, a wall separated it from downtown so that even policemen could not enter.

Much like Comuna 13 in Medellin , Barrio Egipto was once the most dangerous and poorest part of Bogota . Not all that long ago, rival gangs ruled the district and crime was a part of daily life.

Tired of the constant violence, the people of Barrio Egipto decided to put the past behind them and make peace. They converted the district into a touristic place, where symbolic graffiti recalls both the cruelty and the hope for a better future. A group of former gang members founded Breaking Borders and now share their experiences in Barrio Egipto with visitors as tour guides.

Bogota’s second-oldest church, the Church of Our Lady of Egypt , stands at the entrance to the barrio. This is where the annual celebration of Three Kings Day takes place on 6th January every year.

Suggested by Agnes from Voice of Guides

9. Shop for handicrafts at Bogota’s vibrant local markets

Markets provide a window onto local culture and commerce, which is why I always recommend visiting at least one when you arrive in a new city. Bogota is home to some excellent local markets and flea markets where you can shop Colombian handicrafts and rummage for second-hand treasures . 

Located directly opposite the Gold Museum, the Galeria Artesanal de Colombia is a permanent undercover handicraft market that’s mainly designed for tourists. Dozens of stalls stretch out under glass-roofed corridors, each selling a colourful array of local products.

Among the offerings, I spotted some beautiful molas (indigenous textiles), leather goods and painted masks. Unlike the San Alejo Handicraft Market, one of my favourite places in Medellin , there is definitely a mix of handmade and mass-produced goods here (the hats and ponchos, for example, aren’t the best quality). So it pays to take your time and shop around before committing to buy.

A few blocks away, I happened upon the Mercados Campesinos de Cundinamarca , a pop-up produce market organised by the local government. More than 114 producers from 46 municipalities of Cundinamarca Department (the area surrounding Bogota) gather for the occasion, selling fresh fruit and veg as well as locally made dairy products, sweets and coffee.

Read next: 3 local markets you can’t miss in Medellin .

In the Plaza Bolivar, I encountered a very special market, the PaZiempre Fair . Organised by the Mayor’s Office of Bogota and the High Council for the Rights of Victims, Peace and Reconciliation, this market is designed to promote entrepreneurship and cultural revitalisation. Stallholders here are primarily former victims of armed conflict. A good mix of food and handicrafts is on offer.

A few blocks from Plaza de Bolivar, I paid a quick visit to one of Bogota’s oldest marketplaces, Pasaje Rivas . This maze of undercover shops connected by narrow alleyways was the biggest and most atmospheric market I visited in Bogota.

Stallholders here mainly sell handicrafts, including wicker baskets, carriel bags, wooden kitchen utensils, and wool ponchos. Again, it takes a good eye to sort the handmade items from the mass-produced, but I felt the range here was a lot better (and less touristy) than at Galeria Artesanal.

Other weekly markets in Bogota include the San Alejo Flea Market (9am-5pm on Sundays) and Usaquen Flea Market (every Saturday and Sunday).

10. Try coca tea & sample Bogota’s favourite street foods

Despite what the size of their dinner plates might tell you, Colombians are grazers. In Bogota, street snacking is an activity in itself. Everyone has their favourite roaming vendors and hole-in-the-wall bite bars. Food can be found all over the city – the tricky thing is deciding what chow to try.

My street food rule of thumb holds true in Bogota: Choose a spot that’s busy, and always go for something that’s cooked fresh. Of course if you’re travelling on a tour, your guide will point out the cream of the crop.

Chances are whatever you choose is going to be fried (at least once, maybe twice!). Arepas and empanadas are crowd pleasers (Pro tip: Always pair a hot, salty empanada with a glass of cool, sweet orange juice ).

But my favourite snack is buñuelos . Pillowy on the inside and crispy on the outside, I first tried these cheesy balls of goodness in Medellin.

More intrepid travellers might be tempted to stop for a cup of coca tea . Brewed in large silver pots with different herbs and spices added, it purportedly assists with acclimatising to Bogota’s high altitude.

11. Soak up the city’s modern history in the Plaza de Bolivar

Walking into Plaza de Bolivar is like stepping into a living museum . No where in Bogota can you find more history and legacy concentrated in one place.

The historic centre of Colombia’s capital, the plaza itself is a classic Spanish Square – the same you see in small towns such as Jardin and Jerico . But unlike most other Colombian towns and cities , Bogota’s main square is enormous .

There’s a funny story behind the discrepancy: Squares were measured out using a ‘Spanish Stick’ in an effort to keep them uniform. Evidently no one thought to establish a standard length for the sticks first, so each square turned out to be a different size.

It’s easy to miss the petite statue of Simon Bolivar that sits atop a raised platform at the centre of the square. Instead, it’s the buildings on the periphery that vie for visitors’ attention, positively dwarfing Bolivar with their grandeur.

Along the southern border, the grand National Capitol building houses Colombia’s National Congress. The neoclassical Lievano Palace on the western side was completed at the turn of the century and now serves as the City Hall . At the head of the square is Bogota’s main cathedral, aptly named Catedral Primada de Colombia .

In the middle distance, you can spot the rooftop of Colombia’s oldest school . One building on the square sticks out like a sore thumb – the Palace of Justice , site of the infamous 1995 siege, is a hulking modernist block.

Plaza de Bolivar is a place where Bogotanas of all stripes gather to commune. It’s a must-visit if you want to get right into the thick of it and pursue some seriously good people-watching opportunities.

There are often markets and live music events happening in the square, which makes it all the more lively.

12. Visit a few of Bogota’s charming small churches

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Bogotá on Bolivar Square might be the city’s biggest and most impressive church, but there are scores of smaller churches to discover in the backstreets and alleys around the city centre.

My favourites include the lavishly decorated, 17th century Iglesia San Agustin La Candelaria , the National Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen ( Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen ), a Florentine Gothic church with a distinctive striped facade near the Botero Museum, and the Iglesia de San Francisco .

For something different, the 1647-built Santa Clara Church (Iglesia de Santa Clara) has been transformed into a gallery, the Museo Santa Clara , housing a huge collection of original artworks from the 17th-20th centuries.

13. Play a game of tejo, Colombia’s national sport

Ever heard of Colombia’s national sport, tejo ? Tejo is a traditional throwing game , mainly played in local bars. It is one of the oldest sports in the country dating back to the time of the Muisca.

The tejo game consists of throwing a steel disc (called a tejo), onto an angled board that is covered with clay. The goal of the game is to hit one of the mechas , exploding paper triangles located inside a ring ( bocin ) that contain gunpowder. As soon as the tejo collides with its target, a small explosion occurs . And this – accompanied by a loud bang and lots of cheering, of course – makes for points.

If you want to feel local for a night and play the tejo game yourself, you want to go to Tejo la Embajada in Bogota. It’s a fun place where you can enjoy artisanal beers, bites, and a good game with old and new friends! The energy is something you won’t soon forget.

Remember the rules of tejo are honestly a bit complicated, but you just have to go with the flow and learn from the locals.

Suggested by Deborah from Passport The World

14. Gear up for Ciclovia, a Sunday ritual in Bogota

Sunday is usually a day of rest – but in Bogota, Sunday means Ciclovia. Join the locals and get on your bike for this weekly celebration of all things cycling .

Colombia is a great country for cycling , but bustling Bogota is not exactly bike-friendly. That’s until Sunday (and every national holiday) when more than 75 miles (120 km) of public streets are closed to motorised vehicles.

A Bogota institution since 1976, Ciclovia is a weekly party in the streets . Locals use it for socialising and exercise, so it’s a great way for tourists to experience a slice of Bogota life and see some sights along the way. While cycling through parks, past landmarks, neighbourhoods, and city streets, you’ll encounter joggers, dog walkers, yoga classes and more. Ciclovia is certainly a Bogota bucket list experience.

Plan in advance for Ciclovia by booking a Sunday morning cycling tour . A general tour will take you to top city attractions, or a graffiti tour showcases Bogota’s exemplary public art.

Alternatively, rent a bike from one of the many vendors out for Ciclovia and ride wherever you want. With 75-plus miles of open road , you can see Bogota safely while cycling its car-free streets.

Ciclovia runs every Sunday and on public holidays from 7am-2pm.

Suggested by Melinda from Mel On The Go

15. Admire the orchids at the Botanical Garden of Bogota

If you find yourself craving fresh air and greenery, the Botanical Garden is the leafy oasis you’ve been searching for. Located right in the centre of the city of Bogotá, it offers walking paths, waterfalls and playgrounds , making it perfect for anyone who’s travelling in Bogota with kids .

The Jardín Botánico first opened in 1955 and covers more than 20 acres . Colombia’s incredible biodiversity is front and centre, with groves of ferns and beautiful arrangements of native orchids alongside a huge variety of flora from the Amazon region .

You can take a tour of Colombia without leaving the city: As the country’s biggest garden , it showcases plants from every Colombian altitude, climatic area and geographical region.

More terrific things to do around Bogota

16. take a day trip to the colonial town of villa de leyva.

Located just over 3 hours’ drive from the Colombian capital, the colonial town of Villa de Leyva is one of the most popular day trips from Bogota.

A tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site , Villa de Leyva is prized for its original colonial architecture – much of which dates all the way back to the 16th century. The town centres on a magnificent cobbled square, the Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by beautiful low-slung white buildings.

A full-day guided tour to Villa de Leyva is a great way for those on a tight travel timeline to experience this beautiful small town. Ideally though, you’ll want to spend a night or two at one of the cute boutique hotels , enjoying the serenity of Villa de Leyva after hours when the day trippers have gone home.

Other things to do in the area include the Muisca astronomy observatory, while outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby cloud forests and La Periquera waterfalls .

17. Go underground at the incredible Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

Another of the best side trips from Bogota is the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, a 200-metre-deep cathedral built completely inside a salt mine . Known as the ‘First Wonder of Colombia’ , the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral is a marvel of engineering and an amazing example of what humanity can create when faced with a seemingly insurmountable obstacle.

The salt cathedral was originally built around 1932 as a small altar that miners used to pray at before starting a day of treacherous work. Throughout the years, the altar expanded more and more, and the cathedral you see today dates to 1995.

The underground cathedral is massive and takes a few hours to explore. At the end of the walking route, you’ll find the three naves representing the three stages of Jesus’s life – his birth, life and death, and Resurrection. In the main nave, you’ll see what is considered the biggest underground cross in the entire world .

Zipaquira Salt Cathedral is a must on any Bogota itinerary , but it can be quite challenging to get to. The easiest way is to travel with a local tour company . Public transportation is also an option, as there are buses that go directly to the town of Zipaquira. The two bus stations where you can get a bus from Bogota to Zipaquira are Portal Norte and Terminal del Norte.

Either way, if you’re visiting in high season, it’s a good idea to pre-purchase skip-the-line tickets ahead of time .

Suggested by Sean from LivingOutLau

18. See the glacial lakes in Chingaza National Park

Just a 2-hour drive north-east from Bogotá, Chingaza National Park is one of the most significant natural reserves in Colombia .

The Natural Park is located in the eastern row of the Colombian Andes Mountains , which range from 800 metres to as high as 4000 metres above sea level. Inside Chingaza, there are 40 glacial lakes , the biggest being Lake Changaza and the most beautiful being the Siecha Lakes.

There are many different options available for exploring the park, including a range of short hiking trails that are suitable for day trippers. The 3-hour trail to the Lagunas de Buitrago is perfect for a short visit. The unpaved road provides a great day hike that is manageable for anyone with a decent fitness level. On the way to the lagune, you can enjoy the unique flora and fauna, as well as the stunning views. 

For anyone interested in visiting the Siecha Lakes , these can be reached by continuing on the unpaved road after Lagunas de Buitrago. Note that you have to take a smaller trail to get the trail and a good sense of direction and a map are necessary.

Temperatures inside the park vary from 4°C-21.5°C so be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time and pack the appropriate gear and hiking essentials for your adventure.

Suggested by Josephine from Josephine Remo

19. Hike to the tallest waterfall in Colombia, Cascada La Chorrera

Standing at a jaw-dropping 590 metres high, Cascada La Chorrera is worthy of inclusion on any extended Bogotá itinerary. Colombia’s highest waterfall is the perfect place for nature lovers to visit as an easy side trip from the capital.

The waterfall sits halfway along a circular 5 km (3 mile) hiking trail that runs through the countryside in a steep-sided gorge. From Bogota, you can quite easily reach the trailhead using public transport . First, take a local bus towards Choachi and then either take a taxi or walk the remaining 5 km downhill from the bus stop.

The hiking trail is easy to follow and mostly flat . When you reach Cascada La Chorrera, you can stand right underneath the falling water. The waterfall is so tall, it’s impossible to see all of it at once – especially from below!

There’s a second waterfall on the hiking trail that also offers beautiful views. Small in comparison at just 55 metres tall, Cascada El Chiflon is worth seeing up close, particularly since you can walk directly behind it. And, if that’s not enough, the park also offers a range of adventure activities such as abseiling and zip lining .

Suggested by Zoe from Zoe Goes Places

20. Immerse yourself in the legend of the El Dorado at Lake Guatavita

Located 1.5 hours outside of Bogota, Laguna de Guatavita is a lake that is engulfed in a legend of gold. Exploring Guatavita is a great day trip from Bogota to soak up a small town, nature, and folklore all in one.

For the native Muisca people that lived in this area, Laguna de Guatavita was a sacred site. As the legend goes, when a new leader was appointed they would perform a ritual in the lake. The new leader would be covered in gold dust and sent off on a raft into the lake.

Once in the middle, he and other spectators would throw gold pieces into the lake as an offering to the gods. When the Spanish found out, they named the chief El Dorado (the gilded one) and attempted to obtain the gold by draining the lake.

Today you can take a guided mountain hike to Laguna de Guatavita where you’ll learn about the Muisca people and the Legend of El Dorado.

If you have time, you should definitely plan to explore more of the area or ideally spend a night in the town of Guatavita , which is situated along a large reservoir. The original town was flooded some years ago, so present-day Guatavita is a small, picturesque town full of white buildings .

Suggested by Julien from Cultures Traveled

Discover the best of Colombia’s capital on a Bogota City Tour with Impulse Travel

It would be easy to walk away from Bogota without really getting to the heart of the place. I really believe it’s one of those rare examples of a city where having a guide to show you the ropes makes all the difference. Although we had a great experience in Bogota, there is some truth to the rumours.

There are parts of the city that aren’t ideal for tourists to visit, and there are lots of hidden gems that you’d have no hope of finding without a local’s guidance. Even the city’s most popular landmarks have a lot more to them than meets the eye, which is why it really pays to have local knowledge on hand.

I only had a couple of days to try and squeeze everything in, which would have been impossible on our own. So I was thrilled to partner up with Impulse Travel for a half-day Bogota City Tour to uncover some of the capital’s best sights.

Impulse Travel hosts immersive tours all around Colombia, including a range of thematic itineraries in Bogota. The half-day Bogota City Tour provides an excellent overview of Colombia’s capital and hits on all seven of my Bogota must-dos. It’s the perfect choice for first-time visitors to the city.

This tour has a maximum group size of 8 people, and includes an English-speaking guide plus transfer to and from your accommodation by private car.

Book your Bogota City Tour with Impulse Travel using this link and enter the code BOGOTA10 at checkout to receive 10% off the cost of your reservation. Even if a different itinerary takes your fancy, you can still use the code to receive a 10% discount on all Impulse Travel tours in Colombia.

Over to you! What’s your favourite thing to do in Bogota? Would you consider taking a Bogota city tour to learn more about the capital? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Best things to do in Bogota: Save it

Colombia trip essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Colombia. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Colombia using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa or a Health Declaration form for Colombia and apply for your documents online.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Colombia with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Book a safe and reliable private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Medellin , Bogota or Cartagena (prices start from $18 per group).

ESIM FOR COLOMBIA: Stay connected during your trip – pre-purchase an eSIM for Colombia and get online as soon as you arrive without having to visit a phone shop.

CAR HIRE: Use the Discover Cars website to compare prices and features across all the major car rental companies.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Colombia hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best day trips, city tours, Colombian cooking experiences and more.

More Colombia travel resources

• Bogota cooking class , a local Colombian experience
• 30 best things to do in Medellin , my favourite city in Colombia
• 2 days in Medellin , the ideal city itinerary
• 30 authentic Colombian souvenirs , the best things to buy in Colombia
• Markets in Medellin , for fruit, flowers and more
• 30 best places to visit in Colombia , the ultimate bucket list
• What to do in Colombia , activities for every traveller
• Visiting Medellin’s Comuna 13 , things to know before you go
• Guide to Jerico , Antioquia’s loveliest pueblo
• El Despertar Hotel , the best accommodation in Jerico
• Guide to Jardin , Colombia’s colourful colonial town
• Colombian coffee tour , bean to cup in Concordia

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Home » South America » Bogota

Is Bogota Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips 2024)

When I first went to Colombia, I didn’t even consider staying in Bogota. None of my traveller friends really recommended it at all. “Go to Medellin” they said.

But after being kinda disappointed with an overhype of Medellin and receiving a Couchsurfing invitation from a friend of a friend, I though, well what have I got to lose?

Turns out, Bogota is way cooler (and safer) than I expected . And I made it out without a single scratch.

There are galleries and museums galore, amazing history, and a vibrant urban culture. More than that, I felt beyond welcome.

That wasn’t without it’s crime warnings though. Bogota has put its worst days of murder and violence behind it, but this major city still retains a lot of street crime, gangs, and drug trafficking.

Travelling smart in Bogota doesn’t just mean not wandering around the streets at night; it also means being safe with what you eat, planning your routes, and staying super vigilant.

Whether you’re a first-time solo traveller in Bogota, or if you’re wondering if you could take your kids there, you’re about to get my insider information with TOP tips on how to stay safe in Bogota!

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Bogota Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Bogota.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023 

Is Bogota Safe to Visit Right Now?

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According to Bogotá’s Tourism Observatory a total of 1,127,650 million tourists visited Bogota in 2022 and most of which spent a safe vacation.

Up in the Andes is Bogota, backpacking Bogota rich history, a ton of art and culture, and a sprinkling of crime for good measure. While you’ll probably be aware of its history of drug wars and violence, Bogota is more estranged than ever from its infamous past.

There are still dangerous gangs that affect the capital and dodgy areas where you shouldn’t really be exploring. However, drug trafficking rarely affects travellers unless they get themselves involved in it.

It’s the largest city in the country with loads of different tourist areas and neighborhoods. With 11.5 million people and growing , it’s safe to visit Bogota, but you can’t guarantee that all those people are gonna obey the law.

Weirdly, touristed areas – like La Candelaria – change after dark. Pickpocketing and mugging are often mixed with violence. In addition, the south of the city is often more dangerous than the north. 

Strikes, protests, and demonstrations do sometimes occur. When these happen, it’s best to steer clear: they can be passionate and confrontational.

Spikings with Scopolomine are very common in Bogota and travellers are targeted. The substance causes severe confusion and blackouts and is used for robbery, rape, or worse. One of our Broke Backpacker team members was personally poisoned by this, so we know it’s very real. 

There are tourist police, however, which have recently been put into action in the city to help deal with crime issues. That said, the police are not above the occasional bit of theft and extortion themselves, especially around La Candelaria.

So, with all facts considered, Bogota is about as safe as it can be at the moment. Crime and other issues shouldn’t put you off visiting. This is one charming city.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Bogota  so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where to stay in Bogota, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods in Bogota to stay in.

• Zona Rosa – The vibrant nightlife area, Zona Rosa has a heavy police presence that makes it one of the safest areas in Bogota. Those who love boutique shopping will also feel at home in Zona Rosa.
• Teusaquillo – With its central location, Teusaquillo is perfect for outdoor lovers! It’s our recommendation for where to stay in Bogota for your first time in Bogota as it’s generally very safe and peaceful. It has Bogota’s biggest public park and a botanical garden. It’s a safe area to relax and chill and a great base to explore the rest of Bogota. 
• Chapinero – to be near the action, Chapinero is by far and away the coolest and safest neighbourhood in Bogota. It’s centrally located to get anywhere else in the city and incredibly diverse with lots of expats and the largest LGBT club in the world!

Places to avoid in Bogota

There are areas in Bogota that aren’t safe for travellers. Like most of what you’ll find while travelling in Colombia , the most dangerous areas have little to no interest for tourists, so you won’t miss a thing by steering clear of them anyway. 

Equally, there are some areas that are worth visiting, but you need to keep an extra level of vigilance while you’re there. When you get to Bogota, ask locals or your accommodation staff for recommendations in Bogota and what they think of the local area. 

Here are some of the more dangerous districts of the city to consider avoiding: 

• ANYWHERE after dark – The city can completely turn at night, so it’s best to stay at home, stick with a group, and take a taxi home.
• Ciudad Bolivar – A high crime rate and bad flooding during the rainy season.
• San Cristóbal –  similar to Ciudad Bolivar, this city also has a high crime rate. It can be visited, but it’s best to have a local guide to show you around.
• The street of Calle 9 and the south of Barrio Egipto is known for muggings. Avoid, if possible.
• La Candelaria – known to be the hotspot of pickpocketing and violent crimes, you definitely have to be more aware of your surroundings than anywhere else in Bogota. If possible, leave all your valuables in a safe at your accommodation.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Bogota

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Bogota is not a holiday camp; it’s a working city with a troubled past with problems to iron out. But, still, travelling to Bogota is really cool!

First off, you need basic safety precautions . With that in mind, here are some of our top safety tips  when visiting Bogota:

• Be vigilant – Always stay aware of your surroundings. 
• Don’t wander off – ask locals about areas to avoid.
• DO NOT WALK AROUND AFTER DARK – get a taxi.
• ONLY use official taxis – More info coming.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Don’t give papaya – wait, what? The local’s expression “ no dar papaya ” meaning don’t make yourself a target.
• Use smartphones inside – your number one risk in Bogota is phone snatchings. 
• Don’t leave food or drinks unattended – regardless of gender, druggings happen.
• Learn Spanish – this will help you with eeeeeeverything!
• Use ATMs inside – prime robbery spots. 
• Plan your route – 1) you look less lost, 2) you don’t get lost.
• Know about scams – Colombians are friendly but be aware of anyone getting too close. 
• Carry a crappy wallet – with a little bit of cash. Keep the rest of your cash hidden.
• Hand it over – In a worst-case scenario, if you do get robbed, hand over said crappy wallet.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Carry a copy of your passport – including your Colombia visa. Police can ask for it.
• Stay away from drugs – Look, I know. But you aren’t Pablo Escobar. Don’t contribute to Colombia’s issues. 
• Look for hostels with good security – especially in La Candelaria with high nocturnal street crime.
• Go on a barrio tour at your own risk – best to opt for a walking tour. 
• Get a sim card – again, invaluable.

Yes, Bogota is pretty safe to travel alone. People live alone in Bogota, so why shouldn’t you travel alone there? There are risks, obviously, but they can be easily minimised with these travel tips:

• Make friends – Having a friend in the city is the BEST first defence.
• Read reviews – for good hostels in Bogota and bus services. 
• Know your way home – Avoid getting too drunk or exhausted to make that much easier.
• Keep in contact with people – Keep people at home updated with your movements.
• Know emergency numbers – Colombia’s emergency number is 123.
• Stash cash in different places – Having everything in one place is just not a good idea. If that goes missing, it’s game over. 
• Get a credit card for emergencies – and keep it safely tucked away. 
• Get local tips. Ask the staff at your hostel or guesthouse what they would do or see in their city.
• Remember to rest – go easy on your body.

Yes, women can travel safely by themselves in Bogota. But Bogota is still a dangerous city ( like so many other places in the world) so that’s not a reason to steer clear of the Colombian capital. 

As a solo female traveller , take extra precautions. To help out, here’s some friendly advice:

• Trust your gut – If a situation doesn’t feel right, get out of there.
• Don’t walk around looking lost. This makes you an easy target. Plan your route from your hostel.
• Check out good hostels for women – Maybe consider a female-only dorm.
• Locals are friendly in Bogota – You can always ask for help. 
• Catcalling happens – Unfortunately, it’s still cultural in Colombia. Just ignore it and don’t let it ruin your day. 
• Do not open the door – Unless you know or trust the person. That’s the staff’s job. 
• Let people know where you’re going – Update people, a new friend you’ve made at the hostel or the hostel staff themselves. 
• You don’t have to be honest – If someone is asking lots of questions, white lies are fine.
• Take a guided tour – You’ll get to meet other travellers and visitors to Bogota.
• NO is a full sentence – The main thing for female travellers to remember is that you are in charge of your own safety. Don’t feel bad to prioritise that.

For wild nights out, shopping, and budget accommodation, Zona Rosa is the ideal place to stay! With lots of police presence, it’s also one of the (if not THE) safest neighborhoods in Bogota.

Colombia is actually pretty safe for families; that includes Bogota. Although, it’s not going to be on the same level as, let’s say, Madrid. There just are things to be more aware of.

Firstly, Bogota is one of the highest capitals in the world. At 2,640 metres above sea level, this beautiful, soaring city is stunning, but the altitude can be an issue.

The high altitude can mean that people, children more than adults, experience things like shortness of breath, nausea, and increased heart rate: the air is thinner, basically. People still do take their children to Bogota, but being aware of this altitude issue.

When it comes to getting around Bogota with children, forget prams and pushchairs. It’s more trouble than it’s worth. Opt for a sling instead.

Colombia is family-oriented; children come first. You’ll be whisked to the front of queues and get special treatment. On top of this, there’s even a dedicated line at immigration if you’re arriving with children.

Basically, you’ll be welcomed if you’re travelling to Bogota with kids. It’ll be an enriching experience for all of you!

The best way to get around Bogota is by public transport. It’s mainly a bus operation, called the ‘ TransMilenio ‘.

Coloured buses serve different routes with dedicated lanes known as a Bus Rapid Transit System. Bogota’s is actually the largest BRT in the world.

It’s an awesome way to get around but gets super busy, so pickpockets plague local buses. DO NOT use your phone on the bus and keep your valuables close. 

Alongside the BRT are small, privately owned ‘busetas’ . They don’t have stops: just put your hand out for them. Ask locals for the routes. 

Driving in Bogota is not really worth it . The standards of driving aren’t very high and traffic rules are chaotic. 

Taxis are reasonably priced in Bogota. And, while still chaotic, they know the roads much better than you do. 

ONLY use legitimate taxis. Never hail a taxi off the street; that’s just asking for trouble. Like many places, taxi drivers create a lot of shady business. 

Uber in Bogota is easy and super cheap. You can even request an English-speaking driver for a few more pesos. Apps like Cabify work in the same way and just as well. 

When arriving at El Dorado International Airport only authorised taxis are allowed to pick up passengers. Walk a little out and then Ubers can get to you. 

Taxis in the city are doing away with the meter and will be using a price system where an app calculates the fair, like Uber. This means that scams are less easy to perform.

Surprisingly, Bogota is fantastic for cycling with public bicycles to use, and stations across the city. Over 2 million Bogota residents cycle with over 300 kilometres of dedicated bicycle lanes throughout Bogota. 

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Bogota without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Hopefully, you’ve realised by now that solid travel insurance for Colombia is an overwhelmingly good idea. Most of your safety concerns can be backed up this way.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Planning a safe trip to Bogota can get quite overwhelming. That’s why we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions on safety in Bogota.

What should you avoid in Bogota?

Avoid these things to stay safe in Bogota: – Don’t walk around areas you don’t know. Stick to tourist areas. – NEVER leave drinks OR food unattended – Don’t resist if you’re being robbed  – Stay away from drugs. It’s really not worth it.

Is Bogota safe for tourists?

Yes, as long as you use your travel common sense, Bogota is safe for tourists. Stick to the travel safety tips and you’ll have a great trip.

Is Bogota safer than Medellin?

Statistically, Bogota isn’t safer than Medellin. However, this comes down to the size of the city, Bogota is significantly bigger than Medellin. Both cities are definitely safe to visit with a few safety measurements and research.

Is Bogota safe at night?

I wouldn’t consider it safe at night in Bogota. Just like in any other city, being outside at night comes with a lot of sketchy characters and dangers. There are some neighbourhoods that are okay at night, but unless you’re completely sure, it’s best to stay inside.

What should solo female travelers consider in Bogota?

Remember that you can travel safely in Bogota as a solo female traveler. You’re a strong woman and you don’t need no man. However, society is still pretty misogynistic in Bogota. It can be overwhelming at times but try not to lose rationality and remain vigilant.

I have happy memories of Bogota. Although it doesn’t have the best reputation among travellers regarding safety concerns, I say it is worth visiting, under one condition: you have to get to know the locals. These people are great, friendly, and will change a kinda intimidating capital city into your new hangout. 

Overall, it is safe to visit Bogota – just like safety anywhere in Colombia. But, like any big city in the world, it can be a bit sketchy sometimes. 

Yes, it may have that South America Narcos reputation of ultra-violent drug trafficking gangs and corrupt government officials, but that was a depiction of a Bogota, a Colombia, of the past. The country and its capital today are looking forward and you don’t have to worry all that much about drug lords running the show.

Your main concern in Bogota will be pickpocketing and petty crime. It does have a bad reputation for phone thefts, which I heard from countless sources so you can’t really be overly cautious when it comes to this. 

Bogota is a normal city. It closes its roads on Sundays for cyclists. There are a ton of museums and galleries. 

People sit around in parks, go to work, use public transport, eat at fancy restaurants, and go for coffee. Crime exists in Bogota, but the best way to avoid it is to not treat Bogota like a holiday destination; treat it like a city and you’ll do pretty well. More than that, Bogota will love you more than you expected. 

Looking for more info on traveling to Bogota?

• Let me help you choose  where to stay  in Bogota
• Swing by one of these  fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an  epic national park  to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs  in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic  backpacking Bogota travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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3 Days in Bogota: The 2024 Itinerary

Boasting pristinely preserved architecture, renowned street art, fantastic nightlife, and unparalleled cuisine, Bogota should be at the top of your travel bucket list! Read on for a whirlwind Bogota itinerary; once you do, feel free to   message us with any questions you have about traveling to Colombia's stellar capital!

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners— Heroes —who build unique, locally-curated trip plans, designed just for you. Get started .

Table of Contents

Day 1: settle in and hit the town, day 2: experience bogota’s fantastic art and culture, day 3: explore bogota’s natural gems, arrive and unpack your bags.

Although there are many places to stay in Bogota, we’d recommend finding your way to the charming historic neighborhood of La Candelaria. The oldest neighborhood in Bogota, La Candelaria is a fascinating mix of old and new—cobblestone streets and brightly colored colonial buildings contrasted with modern street art and hipster eateries. If you’re looking to explore the neighborhood, check out the nearby Chorro de Quevedo Plaza. Though smaller than the city’s main Plaza de Bolivar, it’s filled with street art and unique little cafes. One of our  local travel experts can create a personalized walking map to take you straight there from your Airbnb. And if the jet lag starts to hit, grab a cup of tinto , Colombia’s standard cup of joe, for a bit of a boost.

People watch in Plaza de Bolivar

Since you’re already nearby, head over to Bogota’s main square, Plaza de Bolivar. This central plaza houses a statue of revolutionary Simon Bolivar, symbolizing Colombia’s rich history and hard-earned independence. There is always something going on in Plaza de Bolivar, and it’s the perfect place to grab an empanada or tamale from one of the countless vendors and pop a squat to people-watch. If you’re  traveling to Bogota with kids , the square is definitely a family favorite! Between the children chasing pigeons and the overall whirlwind of activity, the plaza will definitely keep your imagination busy.

See the city sights on wheels

On Sundays, many of Bogota’s avenues are closed to motor traffic in order to give bikers and runners free rein on the streets. If you’re feeling adventurous, use the event—called ciclovía —to rent a bike and explore Bogota on wheels! If you need help finding a reliable bike rental, reach out to one of our  local Heroes  to hook you up. The city’s grid-style streets make Bogota incredibly safe and easy to navigate; expect to see beautiful architecture, art vendors, and even people walking leashed llamas down the sidewalk (seriously)! Or, stop by one of the countless mom-and-pop shops selling local goods and get yourself a piece of Bogota to bring home with you.

Enjoy Bogota’s art museums

By far Bogota’s best-known gallery, the Gold Museum provides a beautiful glimpse into Colombia’s history with numerous golden archeological finds and is well worth the pit stop. Free on Sundays and affordable every other day of the week, the Museo del Oro is home to over 55,000 stunning gold pieces. The museum also houses the stunning Muisca raft, the golden raft that inspired the Legend of El Dorado. If you’re a modern art lover, the Botero Museum is a must-see. The museum primarily highlights the work of Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most famous artist, but also features pieces by Picasso, Monet, and Renoir.

Embrace Bogota’s fine dining

After all of your exploring, you’re sure to be ready to dig into Colombia’s delicious food . Bogota is internationally known for its culinary creativity, and Zona Rosa showcases Colombia’s best of the best. Also known as the Zona T, this section of Southern Bogota offers top-tier restaurants and fantastic clubs. Your biggest worry in Zona Rosa is sure to be deciding which of the fabulous nightlife options suits you best, but thankfully, our  local travel experts  are always available to help you plan your night out! If you’re looking to dance the night away, check out the expat-friendly club La Villa , known for its kick-ass DJs and trendy partygoers. Armando Records is another trendy club in Zona Rosa, complete with a rooftop view of the city and an abundance of drinks.

Brunch at a local cafe

You can’t pass on embracing a classic Colombian breakfast. Stop at one of Bogota’s innumerable cafes for your most important meal of the day, and be sure to try chocolate con queso . This delicious dish combines two of the finest things in life: chocolate and cheese. Follow the locals’ lead and dip your fresh white cheese into a mug of frothy hot cocoa and enjoy! Our  Heroes can tell you where to find the best chocolate con queso in town.

Explore Chapinero, Bogota’s most up-and-coming neighborhood

Known for its diverse population and artistic vibes, Chapinero is a Bogota highlight you can't miss . Bogota’s hipster center, Chapinero is teeming with unique cafes and restaurants, bars playing live Colombian music, and people just chilling out. It’s also home to one of Bogota’s centers of gastronomy, Zona-G, an area that offers numerous fine-dining options. While you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by Iglesia Nuestra Senora de Lourdes, a stunning church dating back to 1875. Boasting beautiful stained glass images and immaculately preserved Gothic architecture, you would be remiss to pass on experiencing this gorgeous cultural landmark. Reach out to our  local travel experts to trace your route through Chapinero!

Dine like a Colombian

Whenever the midday hunger pangs start to kick in, duck into a cafe to try ajiaco , one of Bogota’s local delicacies. A filling soup comprised of three different types of potatoes, chicken, avocado, corn, and cream, this hearty soup is delicious and extremely affordable, and one of our  Heroes can point you to the best bowl in town. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, order a glass of chicha , a local corn-based alcoholic beverage. Once you’ve re-energized with these Colombian staples, dust off your walking shoes and continue exploring!

Snap a pic of Bogota’s famed graffiti

Bogota’s decriminalization of graffiti has given Colombian artists free of the streets. Murals and graffiti art now cover nearly every street corner in Bogota’s up-and-coming neighborhoods of La Candelaria and Chapinero. Whether you’re visiting Bogota alone or as part of a larger Colombian itinerary , you can’t miss out on this beautiful art!

Stop by the arts and crafts market

If you’re feeling inspired by Bogota’s street art, make a pit stop at Mercado de San Pelayo, the local arts and crafts market. The market has the biggest selection of vendors but is open every day of the week. This is a great place to snag a few interesting souvenirs, or just embrace the local culture. While pickpockets do occasionally ply these markets, it’s easy to  stay safe in Bogota with just a little knowledge!

Get your hipster on at La Peluquería

Located in northern La Candelaria, La Peluquería is colorful hair salon, part art gallery, part cafe, and part entertainment venue—needless to say, it has something for every type of Colombia traveler . Don’t be afraid to drop by!

Have a night out on the town

After freshening up from your daytime adventures, get ready to embrace Bogota’s famed nightlife. Stick around Chapinero and party into the wee hours. Theatron , inspired by Chapinero’s LGBTQ+ heritage, is one of the biggest gay clubs in the world and can accommodate up to 5,000 people on any given night! The tunes are always popping, the people are friendly, and there are always plenty of drinks to go around—so make sure your Hero incorporates a visit into your complete Colombia itinerary .

Grab breakfast like a local

Get up with the sun and grab yourself a breakfast arepa ! Arepa, a corn-based cake stuffed with fillings like meat, cheese, or eggs, is a Colombian staple and a great way to kickstart your last day in Bogota. Or, for a deliciously gluttonous game, compare the arepas in Bogota with those in other Colombian cities —you’ll find that they all have their own distinct regional variations!

Take a pilgrimage up Monserrate—Bogota’s neighborhood mountain

If you’re looking to burn off the calories from your last few empanadas, consider hiking up Monserrate , Bogota’s 10,000-foot tall neighborhood mountain. The hike is around a mile and a half, but the stunning views that await you at the top are well worth the trek! If you’re not feeling up to the hike, you can also opt to ride the cable car up. Regardless of your means of transportation, the views from the top are breathtaking. The mountain also holds significant religious meaning as it houses "El Señor Caido,” or the sacred statue of “The Fallen Lord.” Once you reach the top, you can sip on a drink from one of the mountain-top restaurants—you’ve certainly earned it!

Take in the sights and smells of Jardin Botanico de Bogota

If your trek up the Monserrate has tired you out, stop by the largest botanical garden in Colombian and sit a spell! A sampling of Colombia’s famed biodiversity , this botanical garden is particularly known for its stunning orchid but boasts plants and flowers from all regions of the country. Grab a drink and enjoy Colombia’s natural gems in the shade.

Enjoy your Colombian last supper

Since you likely have an early flight out, take it easy at one of Bogota’s many laid-back bars—our  local travel experts would love to help you plan your night out! Be sure to savor every bite of your last local Colombian meal—you’re sure to be craving it soon!

Have more questions about traveling to Colombia? Here’s a list of our  local Colombian travel experts who can help you, or you can message us any questions you have. And b efore your trip, make sure to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• Colombia Itinerary
• Cartagena Itinerary
• Is Colombia Safe?
• Colombia Visa Requirements

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Colombia travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 25, 2024 11:46 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, colombia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Colombia due to high levels of crime.

Border areas - Avoid all travel

• Caquetá, excluding the city of Florencia
• Cauca, excluding the city of Popayan
• Chocó, excluding the towns of Nuquí, Bahía Solano and Capurganá
• within 50 km of the border with Venezuela, excluding the city of Cúcuta
• within 100 km of the border with Panama
• within 50 km of the border with Ecuador, excluding the border crossing at Ipiales
• Norte de Santander, excluding the city of Cúcuta
• the Port of Tumaco and the city of Buenaventura

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Antioquia, north of the city of Buriticá, west of highway 62 and west of highway 60 along the borders with Choco, Risaralda and Caldas departments, excluding the cities of Jardín, Andes and Hispania
• Córdoba, south and west of the city of Montería
• Guainía
• City of Cúcuta
• Meta, excluding the city of Villavicencio and Caño Cristales
• Nariño, excluding the cities of Pasto and Ipiales
• Valle del Cauca, excluding the cities of Buga, Cali and Palmira
• Vaupés

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Movement restrictions for minors in Medellin

On January 31, 2024, local authorities issued restrictions on the movements of minors under the age of 18 in certain areas of Medellin where they are at a high risk for sexual exploitation. These restrictions will remain in place until July 31, 2024. Minors are not allowed in certain areas every day between 7 pm and 5 am unless they are accompanied by their parents or legal guardians and carry proper identification.

These areas include:

• El Poblado, including Parque Lleras
• parts of Corredor vial de la 33
• La Candelaria, including:
• Plaza de Botero
• Parroquia de la Veracruz
• parts of Corredor de la 70

If you are travelling with a minor in Medellin:

• ensure that they carry proper identification and a photocopy of their passport
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Decree restricting the movement of minors in high-risk zones – Mayor's office of Medellin (in Spanish)

Crime rates are high throughout the country, particularly in the main cities. In some cases, extreme violence leading to death has occurred.

Violent crime

Muggings and assaults occur even in the safer areas of Colombia’s cities. These incidents can turn violent. Firearms and other weapons are common in Colombia. Armed robberies are frequent and may occur on streets, in buses, taxis, restaurants and shopping malls. Criminals won’t hesitate to use weapons on victims who refuse to co-operate.

• Avoid walking alone in isolated or deserted areas
• Avoid travelling alone after dark
• Dress down and avoid wearing jewellery or watches
• Keep cell phones, cameras and other electronic equipment out of sight
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use ATMs inside banks, shopping malls and other public locations during business hours only
• If you're robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse and cell phone snatching, is common in all parts of the country. Drive-by snatching by thieves on motorcycles occurs regularly. They occur in both impoverished and wealthier parts of the country.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Stay in reputable accommodations with good security
• Keep windows and doors locked at all times

There is a risk of kidnapping for ransom in Colombia.

Armed groups may target foreigners in all parts of the country, especially those who work for oil and mining companies. Business travellers and Canadian companies establishing operations in Colombia should take enhanced security measures to protect both personnel and company assets.

Choose living accommodations that have significant security measures in place and modern office facilities.

Express kidnappings

“Express kidnappings” are frequent and often occur in affluent areas, as well as in tourist areas. In this scenario, criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

Illegal armed groups

Illegal armed groups pose a major risk to travellers. These groups carry out violent attacks, such as bombings, and finance themselves through extortions and kidnappings. Attacks often result in casualties.

• Remain on well-travelled roads and paths when visiting remote locations
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times

There is a threat of domestic terrorism. Terrorist groups are active in some parts of the country. Attacks occur periodically.

Further attacks are likely. Targets may include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• military and police installations and vehicles
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• infrastructure, including energy facilities
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

• Avoid unattended packages or parcel and bring these to the attention of police or security personnel
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for the latest updates

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Card overcharging also happens, especially in popular tourist areas, where scammers target tourists by charging them elevated prices for services, food and drink.

Ask for a printed price list before ordering.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Fraudulent police officers

Thieves posing as police officers have approached foreigners to verify their documents or foreign currency in the intend to rob them.

If you face this situation:

• don’t hand over your money or documents unless you feel threatened
• request to provide your documents or currency at the nearest police station, your hotel or another public place

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and strikes take place regularly throughout Colombia, especially in large cities.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, cigarettes or anything else from new acquaintances or someone in the street. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Scopolamine and other incapacitating drugs

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates unsuspecting victims, who become quickly disoriented and are vulnerable to crime.

Thieves may put the drug on pamphlets or wares distributed on the street. They may also slip it into food and drinks or blow it into the face of the victim. They often work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security. They then steal the valuables once the victim has been incapacitated. Dating applications and websites are often used by criminals to identify and lure foreigners travelling alone and looking to meet local people.

Incidents occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis
• on the street

Ayahuasca ceremonies

Spiritual cleansing and ayahuasca ceremonies, offered by shamans and other individuals, have led to serious illness, injury, assault and even the deaths of several tourists.

Ceremonies involve consuming substances that can cause medical complications and severely impair cognitive and physical abilities. They often take place in remote areas with no access to medical or mental health facilities or resources. Often, there is no access to communications with local authorities or emergency services. Facilities generally lack basic first aid or emergency plans to help those suffering from physical or psychological illness during these ceremonies.

Ayahuasca ceremonies are not regulated and individuals offering them are not licensed. There is no way to assess the safety of any of the services, the operators or the shamans.

Avoid participating in spiritual cleansing or ayahuasca ceremonies.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault, including rape, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas.

• Avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
• Stay in accommodations with good security
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations
• Avoid hospitality exchange arrangements, such as shared accommodations

If you are a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the police and the nearest Canadian office.

Advice for women travellers

Boat accidents have occurred due to unlicensed tour boats not meeting safety standards, including in Cartagena, Santa Marta and San Andrés.

• Choose a reputable boating company
• Ensure that your tour operator follows up-to-date safety regulations
• Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

Water safety abroad

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country, due to:

• road signs that are difficult to see or non-existent
• lack of lighting and guard rails
• livestock grazing on the roadside in rural areas
• pedestrians walking on the street

Road conditions

Driving conditions may be particularly hazardous during the rainy seasons, from April to May and from October to November.

Road habits

Drivers are extremely aggressive and reckless. They often drive at excessive speeds, are frequently distracted and ignore traffic controls.

Motorcycles are common and are often involved in traffic accidents.

Pedestrians don’t have the right of way, including at stop signs.

When travelling by car in Colombia:

• avoid driving at night
• avoid driving on secondary roads as they are often targeted by criminals
• don’t pick up hitchhikers
• keep your doors locked and windows closed at all times
• always place all belongings under your seat
• carry a cell phone
• park your car in a guarded parking lot when in a city

Local authorities may deny you entry to certain areas due to emerging security threats. Military checkpoints outside cities are common.

Strikes occur often in Colombia and associated roadblocks on major transit routes may cause significant travel disruptions.

Unauthorized roadblocks and bandits also pose a threat.

If you’re planning to travel by land in Colombia:

• dial 767 from your cell phone to receive advice on current road closures from the Colombian Highway Police information line (in Spanish)
• never hitchhike
• consult local media

Public transportation

Public transportation isn’t safe in Colombia. You should avoid using it.

City and rural buses are frequent targets for theft. Armed groups frequently stop and rob rural buses.

If you must take an overnight bus, keep your belongings close to you, not on the floor or in storage compartments, as they could be stolen while you sleep.

Express kidnappings and assaults often occur in unlicensed taxis.

• Use only reputable taxi companies through establishments such as hotels or ride-hailing apps

If you have no choice but to hail a taxi on the street:

• avoid cabs without licence plates
• never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers
• note the licence plate number and name of the driver when you travel and immediately communicate this information to family or friends

El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá allows only authorized taxis to pick up passengers at its terminals. 

Arrange pickup in advance with your travel agency or hotel.

Transportation services  - El Dorado International Airport

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry restrictions at land and river borders with Ecuador

On January 11, 2024, the Government of Ecuador announced new entry restrictions in response to the ongoing state of internal armed conflict.

All foreigners entering Ecuador at crossing points with land or rivers borders with Colombia will need to present a criminal records check from their country of origin or residence. Both the original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members will generally be exempt.

The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024. An apostille is a standard certificate allowing documents to be accepted in all countries where the convention is in effect.

Useful links

• Migration information – Ecuador Immigration Agency (in Spanish)
• Changes to authentication services in Canada
• Apostilles for documents

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Colombian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Colombia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business or work visa: required Student visa: required

Electronic Immigration Form  

You must complete a free electronic immigration form (Check-Mig) within 72 hours to 1 hour before:

• boarding a flight to or from Colombia
• entering into Colombia via land, maritime or river crossings 

You will need the following information to complete the form:

• flight details
• a valid passport
• a valid email address
• the address where you will be staying in Colombia
• a phone number

Electronic Immigration Form  – Colombia Migration Agency

As of November 14, 2023, you must pay an entry fee equivalent to $85 CAD in Colombian Pesos upon arrival in Colombia. You can only pay by credit card. The payment must be made upon entering the country during the immigration control process. There could be significant delays to make the payment, which could disrupt your travel plans.

You don't have to pay this entry tax if:

• your destination is the archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina
• you have a valid Colombian visa
• you are less than 14 years of age or more than 79 years old
• you are a member of the crew of international transport means (conditions apply)
• Entry tax for Canadian travellers starts on Nov 14, 2023 – Migration Colombia (in Spanish)
• Entry tax applicable to Canadian nationals  – Ministry of External Relations of Colombia (in Spanish)

Entry stamp

You must obtain an entry stamp in your passport when you enter Colombia by land.

You may be fined if you fail to obtain an entry stamp

Length of stay for tourists

The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter Colombia. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay up to 90 days.

You will be fined if you overstay the specified period on your entry stamp. You may apply for a stay extension at the nearest Migración Colombia office. You may extend your stay up to a maximum of 180 days per calendar year. The final decision remains with the immigration authority.

Migración Colombia - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina

If you plan to visit the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina, you must purchase a tourist card at the airport before departure.

You must also show this card before you depart the island.

Drug screening

Colombia employs strict screening measures at its international airports to detect narcotics smuggling.

Customs officials may:

• search you and your luggage
• fingerprint you
• require you to undergo an X-ray inspection upon arrival or departure

Most airport customs inspectors speak only Spanish.

Dual citizenship

Canadian citizens who also hold Colombian citizenship must enter and exit Colombia using the following documents:

• Colombian passport
• Colombian identification card

Although local immigration authorities will allow dual citizens to enter without Colombian documents, they will stamp their foreign passport indicating that they must leave using Colombian documents.

Children and travel

Exit requirements for dual citizen children.

Whether travelling to a domestic or international destination, underage Canadian-Colombian dual citizens must present:

If under 18 and travelling alone or accompanied by a single parent

• an authorization to travel from both parents, written in Spanish and notarized at a local notary public or at a Colombian embassy or consulate abroad; and
• a Colombian birth certificate, notarized at a local notary public, or a long-form Canadian birth certificate and its official Spanish translation

If under 18 and travelling with both parents

• a Colombian birth certificate notarized at a local notary public; or
• a long-form Canadian birth certificate showing the parents' names, and its official Spanish translation.
• Authorization to travel for minors  - Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Spanish)
• Colombian Notaries Directory  - Superintendent of Notaries and Registry (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs  - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 25 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited is available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Private clinics offer emergency services. They typically require advance payment in cash or by credit card.

If you don’t have proof of travel insurance, you may be transferred to a public hospital, where medical care may not meet Canadian standards.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have died or had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries in Colombia. 

Before leaving for medical travel:

• make sure you have done your research
• use reputable health-care providers only

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Some prescription medication may not be available in Colombia.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Altitude sickness

Bogotá is located at 2600 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for breaking the law in Colombia can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. No transfer of offenders’ treaty exists between Canada and Colombia. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Colombia. You may also have to remain in Colombia for a parole period following your release.

Detention conditions may be below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Colombia
• Arrest and detention

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common practice among money launderers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It’s illegal to import firearms into Colombia.

Conviction may result in lengthy prison sentences.

Political activities

It’s illegal for foreigners to participate in local political activities, rallies or public demonstrations in Colombia.

Political involvement may result in your deportation.

It’s illegal to export certain cultural artifacts with historical value from Colombia, such as:

• original paintings

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Colombia.

Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Colombian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Colombia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Colombia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Colombia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Colombia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Colombian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Colombia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry photo identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa or residence permit in a safe place, in case they’re lost or confiscated

You must carry an international driving permit.

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene 
• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt under Colombian law.

However, some accidents may attract a crowd that could turn hostile. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• leave the area
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

International Driving Permit

The currency in Colombia is the peso (COP).

You can easily exchange U.S. dollars and euros for pesos in banks and currency exchange bureaus.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. In rural areas, ATMs may be limited in availability.

Colombia is subject to various natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, torrential rains, floods and mudslides.

El Niño

The effects of El Niño are expected to continue until April 2024. Severe weather could result in problems such as:

• heavy rainfall
• above-average temperatures
• forest fires

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years and can last 9 months to 2 years.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly
• Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans 

Learn about  El Niño

Seismic activity

There are several active and potentially active volcanoes throughout Colombia.

Debris from erupting volcanoes may clog rivers and cause them to overflow, which could in turn cause flash floods and landslides. Ash clouds may also cause disruptions to domestic and international flights.

Earthquakes

Colombia is located in an active seismic area. Earthquakes occur frequently. Dangerous landslides can also occur, even after minor earthquakes.

• Colombian Geological Service  - Colombia’s government (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Earthquakes - What to Do?

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy seasons

Colombia’s rainy seasons usually occur from March to June and from September to November. Incidents of flooding and mudslides can occur, especially in rural areas.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Local services

For emergency assistance, dial 123.

For non-urgent matters, you can reach the National Police by email at [email protected] .

Consular assistance

Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Venezuela

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Colombia, in Bogotá, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Bogotá Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Colombia : Safety by City

• Barranquilla
• Bucaramanga
• Santa Marta

Bogotá is a huge Colombian city, with a population of about 8.8 million people.

La Candelaria is a well-known district where many important historical events took place regarding the Colombian and South American independence.

Some most significant sights are La Catedral, Plaza de Bolivar, Palacio de Nariño, Iglesia del Carmen, among others.

The interesting fact is that in most of the museums you do not need to pay the admission fees.

The city is the hub of most tourism in Colombia and it is in constant growing and development.

• Warnings & Dangers in Bogotá

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

According to the location score in terms of safety in Bogotá, it can be said that standard safety precautions are a necessity. Even though there are no reports of violent crimes against travelers, you should always remain vigilant. There have been a few robberies involving violence and muggers with knives are seen around the city.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Once in Bogotá, make sure you call radio taxis since traveling by the unlicensed one entails many risks. There were dangerous situations with the taxi drivers, when they assaulted the passengers, took their valuables and money. If you realize that you are overcharged, try to get your money back, but do not force them too much, because they tend to become aggressive.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

The crime rate shows that crime is widespread in Bogotá. Street crime including pickpocketing and purse snatching are common on crowded buses and the TransMilenio. Armed robbery is frequent in known tourist areas, like La Candelaria, and they should be avoided after dark. If you're aware of the threat, you will be an unwelcoming target for the lawbreakers.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Bogotá has an increased risk of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Heavy rains may lead to flooding and landslides, which in turn affects the daily flow of transport.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Muggings are on a constant rise in Bogotá, and the often include violence and armory. People who happen to be alone after dark in urban areas are often the targets. Kidnappings o also occur and the usual strategy is to catch the victim in the taxis. If you happen to be the prey of muggers or kidnappers, the most advisable thing to do is to give them money and electronics, since the confrontation may lead to more serious consequences.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Organized crime, like the drug trade, and the attempts of the authorities to stop it is one of the major triggers which can lead to attacks. This means that everyone can become a victim, even though tourists are not the direct target since the attacks usually occur in crowded areas.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Taking into account the fact that taxi drivers always try to trick foreigners and overcharge them, tourists need to practice common sense. Counterfeit money and credit card skimming is also frequent types of scams. There were reports when thieves even acted as police officers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Even though most of the women that visited Bogotá enjoyed their stay without any problems, there are reports of sexual assault against solo female travelers. To avoid being easy prey, women should not wear designer labels and attractive jewelry or expensive camera. They should never look disoriented, even if they are because the lost tourist is a perfect target for thieves.

• So... How Safe Is Bogotá Really?

For most of the vigilant and attentive tourists, this beautiful city is a safe place to visit.

Nevertheless, there is a street crime like theft, pickpocketing, and purse snatching as in any major city.

While in certain areas like Ciudad Bolivar, El Codito, Kennedy and Soacha and Monserrate be aware of the possibility of mugging and theft and try to limit your activities to the daytime.

Considering the fact that Bogotá has become a great tourist destination and one of the most visited cities in Colombia, authorities tend to make Bogotá an even safer and better city for tourist, so the introduction of police patrols during the night and the transport development enable travelers to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and culture in Bogotá without worrying about their safety.

• How Does Bogotá Compare?
• Useful Information

The only documentation that you need when visiting Bogotá for less than 90 days is the valid passport. However, there are countries whose citizens must apply for a visa at the Colombian consulate in their home country. To find out whether you need a visa or not, you can visit certain websites and get all the necessary information.

The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso and tourists can easily exchange money in the exchange offices in Bogotá. Bear in mind that most banks do not exchange money. ATMs are available throughout the city, but it is advisable to use those in shopping centers or inside banks rather than those in the street.

Bogotá has a subtropical highland climate because it is located on a high plateau in the Northern Andes Mountains. This means that it is cool during the day with an average temperature from 6 to 19 °C on sunny days. The rainy season is from May to November.

The major and busiest airport in Bogotá is El Dorado International Airport which is 20 minutes away from the city center by taxi. Other alternative airports when coming to Colombia are José María Córdova International Airport and Rafael Núñez International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance that covers illness or injury, theft and other accidents that may occur during your travels is necessary when traveling abroad. Since coverage depends on the type of insurance that you buy, you should always ask for details when buying it.

Bogotá Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Colombia - Safety by City

Explore bogotá.

• Interesting Facts about Monserrate, Bogota
• What to Do in Bogota to Impress Your Friends?
• Where to Next?

13 Reviews on Bogotá

No terrorism.

About this review: all very honest but drug terrorism. We don’t see that since 80s and now they target specific people because of activism but never tourists. Even being like this, there hasn’t been any terrorism case since the 2000s in Bogotá

Definitely dont go out really after 5pm !! Sounds crazy..last night my son, single traveller decided to venture out at night was subsequent dragged of the street into a bar by a group of people, helped by the bouncer of the bar! Taken to the toilets where he had all his belongings taken ..they managed in get 900$ of his card and wreck up a 90 dollar bar bill.. he had to be rescued from a Columbian friend he was staying with .. Also expierance 2 robberies in public buses within a space of 10 minutes..he says only safe travel is an UBER.. tke a normal taxi and your in trouble .. everyone seems lovely but the truth is they are just out to get as much money out of every way possible

Bogota is awesome! Beautiful and the locals are friendly to tourists. Great city for parties and enjoying nature around the city. highly recommended.

Beautiful BIG City

I have gone to Bogotá twice. Both times I enjoyed my stay. Is it the safest place to travel to? No, but what major city in the world is? There is always a downside. If you are experienced with travel and you know how to protect yourself and your items, there is nothing to worry about. I will be going back in the future.

Affordable and cheap

The locals are actually friendly but be wary of the taxi drivers who want to trick you just because you are a foreigner. Not to generalize all of them, but we encountered a couple when we there, make sure the meter is turned on and be aware of the prices. Price wise, Bogota is affordable and cheap. You don’t need to break bank to enjoy what Bogota has to offer.

I had a lot of fun in Bogota

Bogota is not as unsafe as some make it out to be. We were perfectly safe here on our trip. Of course you need to pay attention to your surroundings and your belongings but that’s the case for any place. Experimental theater is one of the best attractions here and locals are friendly towards tourists.

Colombia in and of itself is not safe. No matter what city. I am not sure what you are on about. I have been all over for work and I have had a number of issues myself. I have seen women being harassed and even hit in public. Sure, the cities have beautiful places but unless you are here often enough, you will not see the bad side.

It can be a nice experience but you need to know a few things

As a tourist and keeping to the tourist path things can be nice and safe in Bogota. But if you stay here long enough and start venturing out of the regular, tourists routes then you will inevitably start to see the bad part of this city. Pickpockets are just the start. You need to protect your purse and phone at all times as these are the easiest things they will try to steal.

Muggings happen here, in some areas that you should avoid anyway and especially during the night. During the night, the city is very dangerous in non-tourist areas but I would avoid doing things alone during night time no matter the area. You might be fine if you do but bad things do tend to happen at night so why not be smart about it?

There is also counterfeit money running around and sometimes it’s hard to spot it. Taxi drivers (not all) can be aggressive in their language and even physically and will try to overcharge for most fares. Also be careful about credit card skimming as it happens here a lot. Not trying to scare you off but it’s better to know what you may encounter if you come to Bogota.

This is a beautiful place, with a lot to see but some people in it are bad and only want to steal from you. Paying close attention to your surroundings, going in groups of at least 3-4 and never with just women in the group – all of this will make things a lot safer here.

One of the first things I like to do when I get to a new place is to take a free walking tour with a guide. This lets me see the city and learn more about it from my guide. I will often ask about the good, the bad and the ugly and learn a lot and this is true for Bogota as well. This is invaluable if you ask me.

Do this in every city you visit and you will gain a wealth of knowledge about that place.

Be Very Careful in Bogots 2022

You MUST watch out in Bogota, even in “nice” residential areas. Street crime is ever-present and increasing. Robbery with knives is rampant, even during the day. If you see 2 men on a motorcycle (or even 2 motorcycles with 2 men on each like happened to us), you’re about to get robbed. Carry a dummy wallet. Don’t wear jewelry. If you show your cellphone, you’re a target. Walk on the sidewalk facing on-coming traffic so you don’t get surprised from behind. Be vigilant. NOWHERE is safe. Walking at night is NOT recommended. Call for taxi’s or use Uber. I’ve been coming to Bogota since 2013. The city has definitely devolved since then.

Attention Fox

As a colombian, I must warn everyone of the dangers of Colombia. As a tourist you will always stand out, do not try to camouflage among locals, you look like a fly in milk. It is a very messy country and everyone looks out for themselves. So you must be cautious and cunning. The police are useless, and outside the hotel you are on your own. It’s real: millionaire ride in a taxi or uber, pills in the drink, robbery with scopolamine, pickpocketing with a dagger is a national sport. It is real. Attention to those who are looking for other types of “experiences” because it can be quite expensive, I mean those who asks for hallucinogenic drugs, they always are cheated with some kind of oregano grass or a drug soup that contains even caffeine, without saying that can lose (even the kidney). If you go in your plan and stick to it and go to tourist places, you will surely meet friendly and cordial people.

wow, what real ambassador Jorge. Yes, there are a lot of issues, nobody can deny it, but not every visitor will experience that level of hostility. I have traveled the world myself, I have seen a lot, I had spent years in Colombia too and definitively, I still have my two kidneys 🙂

Proceed with Caution

As a female expat who has lived here for the past two years, I would say that this is one of the more honest reviews of what Bogotá is like.

It is frustrating to read other reviews that seem to gloss over the very present dangers here. I am from the UK and have lived abroad (mostly in Asia) for the past ten years and moving here regarding being “street-smart” was a real eye-opener for me. You DO and MUST be aware here of the dangers; these can happen in the daytime (especially around Trans Milenio stations and La Candelaria) and most definitely at night and you must not walk anywhere as a female here after sundown. Sadly mugging with guns has become more of an issue and I know at least 5 people, including women coming out of the gym in the north who have been mugged this way.

The most common type of theft on the street seems to be of mobile phones and bikes. Regarding handbags you must wear a cross-body bag and you should conceal cards and larger notes – theft from restaurants is common (again this happened to me while I was living in Cedritos in the north). If you are renting an apartment here you must be aware of scams from landlords withholding substantial money for normal “wear and tear” (my landlord for example insisted on the entire apartment being repainted after I’d stayed just 6 months – also she withheld my deposit and charged for the months that I didn’t stay up to the one year). Be aware also of problems with glass shower doors – the difference in temp between the hot air created by the shower and the cold of outside can cause these doors to smash – this happened to me and I had 15 stitches, luckily in my lower leg rather than an artery – the doctor said I was the 5th person she’d treated with the same injuries or worse – and if this happens you are liable for the damage not the landlord.

I also had a burglary of my home in “upscale and safe” neighborhood of Chico and when I tried to get it investigated by the police and wanted my building to check the cctv – I found they only had one camera in the whole building above the front door which was already manned by a guard and so nothing to prevent or protect you from any crimes from within the building. My landlord had also not provided any safe for my 6 month air bnb stay. Regarding Candelaria for women planning to stay here alone – avoid it. The costs are lower for a reason. I booked a 3 week stay just around the corner to Parque los Periodistas and yes there’s lots of nice cafes in the day but likewise a huge amount of extremely shifty individuals- and after dark the roads here are dangerous.

Compared to the north where I lived there is a definite lower amount of police and drugs are consumed in the open even during the day and I have never seen a policeman intervene with them. The effects of this on people can be quite shocking if you haven’t seen this before. Regarding open areas in La Candelaria, if I was alone or with another western-looking woman I wouldn’t feel safe walking around and I order taxis from Uber/cabify directly from my building door. In cabs also when you get in be careful to check the doors are locked – I had a drug addict physically shake the doors of the taxi I was in trying to steal my handbag.

Also be aware while traveling in taxis of scams involving motorcycles “crashing” into your car – this can be a way to get rich-looking taxi clients to get out to help only to be robbed – this also happened to me with my boyfriend and luckily our driver screamed for us to get back in the car as he had experienced this just the week before. My advice is to always look confident, never take your phone out on the street, avoid if you can bad areas or go with a Colombian and never wear anything that appears flashy or makes you stand out.

If you live here it’s important not to mention where you live online and not to mention valuables that you might own – get a safe and cameras installed if you can. All this is such a shame because Bogotá is such an amazing and interesting place and the people generally are wonderful but it is important that visitors are aware of massive social inequalities here and need, remain vigilant and aware at all times. sadly, with a lack of proper information for travellers, a lot of visitors here put themselves unknowingly at great risk and the dangers here are very real and should not be tested.

I was mugged

I was on vacation with my wife when 2 men came and held a knife ordering us to hand over our phones and wallets, seriously, this place needs better police.

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Article Contents

• Bogotá : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Everything you need to know about getting around Bogotá

Aug 11, 2023 • 5 min read

It's easy to find your way around Bogotá with our helpful tips – just don't hire a car © RECVISUAL / Getty Images

The traffic may be anarchic and there’s no citywide subway system, but Bogotá is still a relatively easy place to navigate.

Two 21st-century innovations have helped ease the gridlock: a comprehensive web of designated bike lanes (over 500km/310 miles of them), and a slick integrated bus system known as the TransMilenio. Taxis plug the gaps when time is of the essence, while most of the headline sights in the historic quarter of Candelaria can be navigated on foot.

For something a little different, you can take a cable car or cable railway to the top of Cerro de Monserrate, the city’s sentinel mountain.

Join the locals on the TransMilenio

Bogotá’s BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system is a copy of a pioneering network first piloted in Curitiba , Brazil in the 1970s. Called the TransMilenio , it uses large articulated buses operating in specially dedicated lanes in a system that mimics an above-ground metro. For ease of entry and exit, the buses utilize special purpose-built stations with raised platforms to increase the speed of boarding. When full, the largest buses can carry up to 270 passengers. As of 2023, almost half of the city’s fleet of 3300 buses was electric.

Launched in 2000, the TransMilenio has grown to incorporate 12 lines and 152 stations spread over 114km (70 miles). A fleet of smaller “feeder” buses that share the roads with cars connect to areas where the TransMilenio doesn’t reach.

To use the TransMilenio, you first need to purchase a smartcard called Tullave for COP$7000. The contactless card can be loaded and recharged at any bus station. Fares are relatively cheap costing COP$2950 per ride. Beware: services can get notoriously crowded, especially during rush hour.

Take a special heritage train to the Catedral de Sal

A private company known as Tren Turístico de la Sabana  runs a weekend-only heritage train from Bogotá’s neoclassical Sabana station to the town of Zipaquira, 42km (26 miles) north of the capital, site of the famous subterranean salt cathedral . It stops at Usaquén en route.

Sabana station is located in the Los Mártires neighborhood, a 20-minute walk from Candelaria’s Plaza de Bolívar .

Three ways to climb a mountain

The Cerro Monserrate rises steeply above the roofs and skyscrapers of downtown Bogotá and is crowned by a handsome basilica and pilgrimage site. Scaling it has become a city rite of passage.

There are several ways to ascend. The most energetic is to puff-and-pant your way to the summit on a paved path with sporadic steps that climb 500 vertical meters over 2.5km (1.5 miles). Bear in mind, Bogotá’s already at a significant altitude, meaning the air is gasp-inducingly thin. Acclimatize before you even think about attempting the climb.

If you'd like to conserve your energy, there’s the option of taking a funicular (cable railway) or a teleférico (cable car). Rather than running simultaneously, the funicular carries morning passengers (until noon), while the teleférico handles the afternoon shift. They both leave from the same spot, a short uphill walk from the Parque de los Periodistas .

The footpath up the mountain closes at 1pm. Most locals start hiking early (it opens at 5am).

Fill in the gaps with a taxi

Bogotá's fleet of Korean-made yellow taxis is a generally safe, reliable, and inexpensive way of getting around.

It isn’t recommended to wave down a taxi in the street unless you are with a local – and certainly not after dark. When you do so, you're not registered and therefore forfeit all the security measures put in place to protect you. The best idea is to ask someone at your accommodation or restaurant to book one for you – or to do so yourself. Catching a taxi from the airport arrivals area is generally safe.

Uber and other taxi apps currently work in Bogota, although there have been temporary suspensions of service due to past protests and lawsuits. Check before you set out.

Rent two wheels in one of South America’s great cycling cities

Famous for its revolutionary Ciclovia , when the city closes 127km (79 miles) of its roads to motorized vehicles every Sunday, Bogotá is one of the world’s great cycling metropolises. There are 550km (342 miles) of interlinked ciclorutas (cycling lanes), many of them separated from traffic, allowing cyclists to get around with minimum disruption.

Visitors can rent bikes at Bogotá Bike Tours in Candelaria. The company also offers daily guided rides, a great way to absorb the sights, get oriented and become quickly acquainted with Bogotá’s busy streets and bike etiquette.

You haven’t really experienced Bogotá until you’ve participated in Sunday’s Ciclovia (7am-2pm) when the city flips from a stressed-out traffic hub to a carefree street festival (and back again) for seven blissful hours.

Driving a car? Think again

Renting a car solely to get around Bogotá isn’t a good idea. If you’re from outside South America, you’ll quickly discover that driving is a different sport in this neck of the woods. According to the 2022 INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard, the city is the eighth most congested in the world. The average citizen spends 94 hours a year stuck in stationary or slow-moving traffic – save yourself the stress and don't do it.

Accessible transportation in Bogotá

The TransMilenio system has relatively good wheelchair accessibility albeit with a few caveats. Most stations have ramps and all buses have at least one designated wheelchair space. Platform entry is similar to that of subway trains, but beware, some stations have a small gap between the bus and the platform.

Monserrate’s funicular and cable car are both wheelchair accessible and the trails on the mountaintop are equipped with step-bypassing ramps, although some of them are quite steep.

Visit Lonely Planet's Shop for more information on accessible travel. 

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Is Bogota Safe? 11 Important Tips For Travelers In 2024

Is Bogota safe for travelers? This is a question that many people ask before they visit Colombia’s capital city. But the answer is not always black and white.

Millions of tourists visit Colombia’s capital per year, and while many of them do not experience any safety issues, some do. Generally speaking, Bogota can be safe for tourists, but that is only if they know what to expect and follow specific safety principles.

Bogota definitely does not have a good reputation when it comes to safety, but the Colombian government has put the utmost effort into keeping tourists safe. While the crime rate in Bogota has certainly lowered, Bogota can still be dangerous. In fact, Colombia has been ranked 140 out of 163 in terms of safety for 2023 .

But if you want to visit this vibrant city with tons of history and incredible dynamics, there are ways to do it more safely. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite personal tips for staying safe in Bogota and how you can enjoy your trip to the country’s capital city!

Planning A Trip To Bogota Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended airport transfer to Bogota:

• Bogota: 1-Way Private Transfer from/to El Dorado Airport (SUPER cheap!!)

Our recommended tours in Bogota:

• Bogota: Daily Group Tour of the Salt Cathedral Zipaquira (Our favorite tour in Bogota!)
• Bogotá: El Paraíso Favela Tour with Cable Car (SUPER Unique Experience!)
• Bogota: Food Discovery Tour (For foodies!)

Our recommended places to stay in Bogota:

• Sonesta Hotel Bogotá (Luxurious and affordable!)
• bs Rosales Hotel (AMAZING value-for-money)
• Trip Monkey Zona G (Perfect and safe for backpackers)

History Of Crime and Safety In Bogota

Bogota and Colombia are known for their long history of crime and safety issues. The city has been plagued by violence from the FARC terrorist group and the drug cartels , which made it one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Kidnappings and murders weren’t uncommon back in the day.

However, Colombia has taken a positive step in the direction of safety. Violent crimes such as kidnappings and homicides have gone down considerably in the last years after the civil war. The security measures in Bogota are becoming better every day.

However, widespread poverty is a major issue in Colombia, especially in Bogota. In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic that caused many people to lose their jobs, many locals are on the brink of complete bankruptcy.

This has caused the crime rate to go back up in Bogota, especially crimes such as petty theft and pickpockets. Armed robberies aren’t unusual as well.

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Is Bogota Safe For Solo Travelers?

Bogota is a popular backpacking destination in South America and many travelers visit Bogota solo. I’ve done it before and never felt unsafe, though I did research a lot about safety in Bogota before visiting, just as you are doing now.

I would not say that solo travelers are more in danger than travelers in groups. Yes, of course, as a solo traveler, there are certain precautions you’ll need to take to ensure your safety.

Things such as not walking alone in the middle of the night in a dangerous neighborhood and being aware of your surroundings can help keep you safer. Daytime is usually safe to walk around by yourself, but you must avoid the dodgy alleys and areas in Bogota.

As a solo traveler, you’re likely to get more attention from locals and possibly criminals that want to rob or take advantage of you. It’s important that you portray a sense of confidence when walking around to avoid any unwanted interaction.

But in general, solo travelers are safe in Bogota.

We always recommend travel insurance when you are traveling in Colombia. Check out our recommended travel insurance company here!

Is Bogota Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

I’ve spoken with tons of solo female travelers that have been to Bogota and many of them agree on one thing – the aggressive men in Colombia. Machismo culture is very much alive in Bogota, so solo female travelers might get catcalled and harassed when they are just walking around.

When this happens, don’t engage them. Walking away and just ignoring them is the best way to deal with a situation like this, at least when you are a tourist in Colombia. If their approach becomes too much, you can decline them by saying something like “no gracias”, which is English for “no, thank you.”

At night, solo female travelers need to be extra cautious when walking around. Most crimes happen at night and solo female tourists are easy targets. It is best to take an Uber to get around Bogota at night.

But if you must go on foot, make sure you are aware of your surroundings. Simple things like going across on the other side of the street when you see someone coming down can help.

If possible, stay in one of the social hostels in Bogota and see if you can make a friend or two to explore Bogota with.

Solo female travelers can be safe in Bogota, but they must be take extra precautions to ensure their safety.

Is Bogota Safe At Night?

Safety in Bogota drops considerably at night when compared to the day. Many of the streets become desolate at night, so it’s important to be vigilant when out and about. It is best to avoid walking around alone at night completely.

La Candelaria , the historical center of Bogota, can be particularly dangerous at night. The cultural heart of the city becomes a playground for criminals at night.

People have been robbed at gunpoint and knifepoint in La Candelaria at night, so it is best to avoid going to this area. If you are staying in this area in Bogota, make sure you get an Uber in and out.

Bogota’s nightlife is incredible, but travelers must be aware of the potential danger that lurks beneath the surface. Drink spiking is common , and I’ve seen many people get their drinks spiked in Colombia and the rest of Latin America. It can happen to both men and women, but usually, it is more common with men as they are typically more careless.

Typically, an attractive young woman will approach them for a chat. And after drinking, chatting and potentially dancing for a little bit, the woman will slip a drug into his drink when he’s not looking.

Then the woman will take him back to her place, and by the time they arrive, the man will be too drugged to defend himself. The man usually wakes up on the side of the street with no money or phone.

Is La Candelaria Neighborhood in Bogota safe?

We have dedicated this part of the post to talking about the historic center of Bogota, La Candelaria. This area is home to some of the iconic landmarks in Colombia , such as the Museo del Oro, Catedral Primada de Colombia , and many other government official buildings.

Without a doubt, no visit to Bogota is complete without exploring La Candelaria.

Unfortunately, La Candelaria is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Bogota . In the daytime, it is typically okay to walk around and just check out the sights since it is very busy.

But there are incidents where people have gotten their bag snatched or even robbed at knifepoint in one of the tighter alleys.

La Candelaria is very dangerous at night. As the tourists and locals leave to go home, this area becomes very quiet at night. The colorful colonial-style buildings and cobblestone streets are very quiet. There is no one playing music on the corner, and it does not feel remotely safe to go walking out at night.

If you are staying in La Candelaria, make sure you have a safe way to get back home at night, and make sure your accommodation has good security measures.

If you are worried about visiting La Candelaria, there are plenty of walking tours that help you explore this area.

What Are The Safest Neighborhoods In Bogota?

One of the easiest ways to make your trip to Bogota much safer is by staying in one of the safe neighborhoods in Bogota. By just staying in a safer neighborhood, you can minimize the number of risks you face. These are the areas you should consider staying in:

• Teusaquillo

Usaquen is one of the wealthiest and safest neighborhoods in Bogota. It was once its own municipality separate from Bogota where the elite had their luxury estate homes.

This upper-class neighborhood continues to be one of the safest areas in Bogota, even at night. You will see a lot of police presence, and there are plenty of people out and about even at night.

Chapinero is also a safe neighborhood in Bogota that is adjacent to Usaquen. It is one of the most popular areas for young people and expats to live in Bogota. It is home to Zona Rosa and Zona G (G for gourmet), so travelers can find lots of great restaurants, bars, and clubs that make it a popular nightlife destination.

💪 Pro Tip: Chapinero is a huge neighborhood, and each sub-area has its own safety level. In general, as long as you are east of Carrera 7 (also known as Septima), then you are usually safe.

Teusaquillo is one of the most central neighborhoods in Bogota and is also one of the safest. It is home to lots of government buildings, embassies, and foreign residences. This neighborhood has a more residential feel than Chapinero or Usaquen, so it’s quite popular for families. You can walk around at night without any problems, but you won’t find much to do in the area.

📚 Read More: Where To Stay In Bogota: The Best And Safest Neighborhoods

Civil Unrest and Protest In Bogota

One of the biggest issues when traveling to Bogota is the civil unrest and protests. As the capital of Bogota, it is home to many government official buildings such as the Palacio de Nariño, where the president of Colombia resides and works.

As a result, if there is any protest in Colombia, Bogota would naturally be the place for it to occur.

And for a country that has widespread poverty and lots of reforms (for better or for worse), the locals are not hesitant to protest. Every year since 2019, there have been protests in Bogota and Colombia.

The most recent big ones were the 2021 Colombian protests , which were for the increased taxes, corruption, and health care reform proposed by the Colombian government.

Though civil unrest and protests are safety concerns, they typically occur only in a small area in Bogota. If visitors can avoid that area, they can significantly make their visit a lot less dangerous.

However, these situations can sometimes change rapidly, so visitors must use common sense, stay alert, and keep up-to-date with current events. One of the best ways to do so is by asking the receptionist at your accommodation.

They are usually more than happy to tell you about the political situation in Bogota and whether you should be worried about any protest or civil unrest.

Are Taxis Safe In Bogota?

While taxis are generally quite safe in Medellin , they are not very safe in Bogota. In Bogota, it is best to use Uber instead of taxis. There have been many reports of taxi drivers robbing their passengers or scamming them by overcharging them.

A few years ago, something known as the million-dollar ride was quite popular. It meant that the taxi driver would pick you up, drive you to an ATM, and make you take out all your money while threatening you with a knife or gun.

Though I’ve not heard of this in recent years, I’ve heard taxi drivers robbing you at knifepoint. Some taxi drivers try to scam you by either taking a detour or not using the meter. All officially licensed yellow taxis in Bogota are supposed to use the meter, but many do not so they can overcharge tourists.

That is why it is best to use Uber in Bogota, or better yet, Didi or Cabify, which takes a lower commission from drivers.

Read More: What Are The Safest Cities In Colombia?

Safety Tips For Traveling In Bogota

Bogota can be dangerous, but with the proper safety tips, you can make your visit as safe as possible. Here are some of the tips we personally recommend.

• Don’t Leave Your Drinks Unattended – You wouldn’t do this anywhere else in the world, why would you do it in Bogota? Bogota’s nightlife is incredible and everyone should experience it at least once, but make sure you keep an eye on your drink to make sure no one spikes it.
• Learn A Bit of Spanish – As the capital city of Colombia, you’d expect many people to speak English. But that is not the case. Knowing a little bit of Spanish can get you out of sticky situations, especially if you can understand what the locals are saying. We recommend using iTalki, where native speakers offer tailored online lessons.
• Don’t Fight Back If You Are Robbed – One of the most intuitive human instincts is to fight back when threatened. But in Bogota, that is a shortcut to getting stabbed and going to the hospital. Criminals are not afraid to use weapons in Bogota, and nothing is worth more than your life.
• Get A Sim Card – Getting a sim card will not only let you get an Uber anywhere you need from the city, but it can also help you navigate around the city. Knowing your way around the city will help you look more confident and prevent anyone from coming up to you to “help”.
• Travel Insurance – Perhaps the one thing that made me feel safe about traveling in Bogota was getting travel insurance. It gave me peace of mind knowing that I would be covered and reimbursed if I was robbed. I highly recommend getting some travel insurance for Bogota!
• Don’t Accept Drugs – Colombia and Bogota have a reputation for narco-tourism, and many travelers visit Colombia to take drugs and party. Unfortunately, this is one of the easiest ways to get into trouble. Not only will you get into trouble with law enforcement, but the drug dealer will know that you are under the influence and an easy target with lots of money.
• Take an Uber Instead of A Taxi – As we mentioned, taxis are not safe and notorious for scamming tourists.
• Take A Walking Tour Instead of Exploring On Your Own – Taking a walking tour with a local professional is not only a good way to get to know the city, but it also means that you are more protected from street crimes.
• Don’t Get Too Drunk – Getting too drunk or under the influence makes you an easy target. When the criminals see that you might not have the ability to defend yourself properly, they make a move and suddenly your wallet and phone are both gone.
• Don’t Flash Your Fancy Electronics and Accessories – Colombia is poor, and something like a new iPhone can be worth months of someone’s salary. Make sure you are subtle about your electronics. Better yet, wear something that blends in with the locals.
• Beware of Extra-Friendly Locals – Extra friendly locals might not be extra friendly after all. Some of them might have hidden intentions and might try to befriend you so you lower your guard. Some of them start a conversation with you while their accomplice walks by and takes your wallet out of your pocket.
• Meet Other Solo Travelers – If you want to stay safe in Bogota, it is best that you travel in a group. For solo travelers, you can easily meet other travelers by staying in popular hostels in the city, as well as taking tours that might have other participating guests.

• Don’t Take More Than You Need When Going Out – Don’t take any more than what you need when going out, especially at night. Even if you get robbed, you won’t lose everything and have the ability to get back home and replace the items you’ve lost. This is especially true for your passport. Don’t carry that thing around everywhere you go!
• Take Your Money From An ATM Inside A Shopping Mall – Shopping malls are some of the safest places in Bogota, and we recommend you use the ATMs there instead of the ones in the street for extra safety.

Safety In Bogota Colombia FAQs

Is there uber in bogota.

Though Uber is technically illegal in Bogota, Uber drivers have found a way around it. When you get in an Uber, you must sit in the passenger seat to avoid looking like it’s an Uber. If you were ever stopped, you have to tell the police that the driver is your relative. There are also Uber alternatives such as Didi and Cabify.

Can You Drink The Tap Water In Bogota?

One of the most surprising facts about Bogota is that its tap water is safe to drink. Though Latin America might have a reputation for being dirty and unsanitary, the tap water quality in Bogota is quite high. We’ve drank the tap water in Bogota many times, and have never had a problem.

Can You Get Altitude Sickness In Bogota?

Bogota is situated 2,640 meters above sea level, an elevation that could cause altitude sickness. Though this level usually won’t cause serious compilation, visitors might feel like they are out of breath much quicker. In any case, if you are suffering symptoms from altitude sickness, take it easy for a few days and your body should adjust.

Is Public Transportation Safe In Bogota?

Unfortunately, public transportation is not the safest in Bogota. Many people have reported getting their stuff pickpocketed, and it is more common during rush hours or when the public transport is crowded. Keep an eye of your belongings and keep them as close to your body as possible. The public transportation in Bogota, namely the TransMilenio (Bogota’s Bus Rapid Transit System ), is amazing and one of the best ways to get around Bogota.

Is Monserrate in Bogota Safe?

Monserrate is one of the best viewpoints in Bogota and a must on any itinerary. However, visiting Monserrate is not always safe. First of all, visitors must walk to the Monserrate cable car station instead of walking. Second, if you wish to hike to the top, you must do so on the weekends when it’s more crowded and avoid hiking in the dark. Once you are at the top of the mountain, it is quite safe.

Is Bogota Safer Than Medellin?

No, Bogota is actually a little bit more dangerous than Medellin. Since Medellin isn’t the capital, it doesn’t get the level of civil unrest that Bogota gets.

Is Bogota Airport Safe?

Bogota Airport is arguably the best airport in Colombia. Not only is it safe, but it is also modern and very clean.

Is Bogota Dangerous?

Generally speaking, Bogota is a safe city as long as you are very cautious. It does have a fair share of danger, such as La Candelaria area, especially at night, and frequent civil unrest.

Is Bogota Safe For Tourists?

Tourists are typically safe in Bogota, as long as they stay inside touristy areas and take extra safety precautions. Avoid walking out alone at night, be aware of your surroundings, don’t display expensive items, and use trusted transportation options.

As you see, safety in Bogota is achievable, but only if you know the proper way to do so. Hopefully with our guide, you can feel a little bit more confident about visiting the capital city of Colombia.

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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Shopping cart items, bogotá, colombia to host adventurenext latin america 2023.

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for AdventureNEXT Latin America 2023 - Bogotá, which will take place 25-27 June 2023. The event’s theme, Tourism as an instrument of peace , offers delegates the opportunity to experience the highlights of the region while also seeking to understand the complex history and culture of Colombia – including the process the country has undergone in recent decades to heal from conflict.

Colombia is a hotspot for diversity and home to an incredible wealth of natural resources and cultural heritage. While modest in size, the country is a microcosm of Latin America’s most iconic landscapes : soaring Andean peaks and páramo , the rainforest of the Amazon river basin, savannas and wetlands, and white sand beaches along the Caribbean. Impressively, it has more birdlife than any other single country, with roughly 1,900 recorded species – which accounts for about 20% of all bird biodiversity worldwide. 

Beyond the landscapes, the gastronomy of Colombia has begun to steal the global spotlight. From innovative chefs creating full sensory experiences to classic dishes such as arepas and ajiaco , the country has officially become a hotspot for foodies. Coffee aficionados flock to well-known growers who produce some of the most highly coveted beans in the world. The street food, which deserves its own treatise, has earned a feature episode on Netflix . 

Nicknamed the “land of one thousand rhythms” for the 1,025 documented folk rhythms, Colombia has been recognized by UNESCO for its rich musical traditions which include Cumbia, Vallenato, Champeta, and Bambuco, to name just a few. Varying region to region, much of the music is a blend of African beats, Indigenous sounds, and European influences. Heard and celebrated at the many carnivals and festivals held throughout the year in Colombia, music lies deep in the soul of the people who live there.

And the beating heart at the center of all this – both geographically and metaphorically – is Colombia’s capital city of Bogotá. 

Designated one of the UNESCO Cities of Music , Bogotá boasts more than 70 museums, 100 art galleries, and 132 historical monuments. With more than 5,000 urban parks and 560 kilometers of bike paths, it is also one of the greenest cities in Latin America – earning recognition as one of the "Tree Cities of the World". In addition, Bogotá was one of the ten destinations selected for the Future Tourism program – an initiative by the Inter-American Development Bank that seeks to contribute to the competitiveness and sustainability of the tourism sector in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

Colombia’s commitment to social and economic sustainability is evident across the country’s tourism development. Bogota´s tourism board has recently unveiled an initiative called Fondetur, which delivers funds to small businesses, tour operators, and tour guides to improve their access to IT, work equipment, marketing, and sales strategies – necessities that allow them to improve and innovate within the local travel industry. And by using a community-operated model, tourism offers a reliable economic path for Colombian entrepreneurs to connect to their cultural roots and develop unique travel experiences for the international markets. 

"I am very excited to have our AdventureNEXT Latin America 2023 in Bogotá and the Central Region of Colombia,” said Gabriella Stowell, the ATTA Latin America & Caribbean Director. “During our AdventureWeek Bogotá in 2021, some of us experienced incredible bike rides, delicious food, amazing music, and learned firsthand all the initiatives for nature and community-based travel this destination is leading, and now we have the opportunity to share this experience with all the delegates attending AdventureNEXT Latin America 2023."

Of course, to truly feel the  sabrosura  of Colombia, you have to be there. In the coming weeks, additional information about speakers, sessions, and activities surrounding the event will be announced. To learn more and register for AdventureNEXT Latin America Bogotá, please visit the event homepage .

FinanceBuzz

15 incredible 1-Week Vacations You Can Book for $1,000 or Less

Posted: October 2, 2023 | Last updated: October 3, 2023

You don’t have to break the bank to go on vacation. By picking the right destination, you can have fun and save money on travel .

Let’s explore affordable domestic and international locations to help you plan your next week-long trip. Here are our favorites that cost less than $1,000. 

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

How does a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains sound? Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination, but you can save on high hotel prices by booking early or planning an off-season trip during the winter or spring months.

Nearby Knoxville can have flights for as cheap as $100 roundtrip and much more affordable lodging options. Note that you can travel for nearly free by using credit card points and miles.

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Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) offers direct flights from locations all around the U.S. on multiple affordable carriers, including Southwest, Spirit, and JetBlue. It’s common to find roundtrip flights for under $200.

To continue saving money after you arrive, you can choose to use public transportation and opt for lodging that’s not right on the beach.

It’s also an option to book a cheap cruise to the Bahamas or another destination while you’re in town, which could cover your food and lodging for multiple days. Cruise companies also often have last-minute deals.

Tokyo, Japan

The “Land of the Rising Sun” might seem out of reach budget-wise, but did you know you could snag roundtrip tickets to Tokyo from the $500s or less?

It’s more than possible with Zipair, a budget airline that flies from California and Hawaii to Japan. And once you get there, it can be surprisingly cheap. We’re talking meals for $7 or less and lodging (with free breakfast) for $50 or less.

You can use the best travel credit cards to help reduce the cost of flights and hotel stays on your next trip.

6 ways to build a life where you can travel any time you want

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is sometimes overlooked in favor of other Texas cities, but don’t sleep on this vibrant destination and its beautiful riverwalk.

You can find sub-$100 hotel prices close to downtown and San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has flights from across the U.S. and Mexico. With proper planning, you can find flights for under $200 round trip.

Yellowstone National Park

Are you up for an adventure? If so, Yellowstone can be a surprisingly affordable destination.

While you typically have to pay an arm and a leg for cabins inside the park, you have the option to go camping in nearby KOA campgrounds. Depending on the time of year, you might pay in the $60s per night.

Actually getting to Yellowstone is another story, but there are some potential flight options into Bozeman and Idaho Falls.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is an excellent base camp for exploring the outdoor wonders of Utah. You can get to Park City in less than an hour or head south to wander through multiple national parks.

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is a Delta hub but also services Southwest and JetBlue. It’s not uncommon to find roundtrip flights from the East Coast for around $200, while West Coast destinations can have even cheaper fares.

Even better, downtown Salt Lake City has a free fare zone where you don’t have to pay to ride certain buses and TRAX trains.

13 legit ways to make extra cash

Peru has world-renowned food, including the best restaurant in the world, and loads of ancient historical sites. 

Depending on your budget, you might not be able to fit Cusco and Machu Picchu into your trip, but you can still take a culinary tour of Lima.

Both Spirit and JetBlue fly to Lima out of Fort Lauderdale, providing affordable options for getting there. Once you’re there, both lodging and food are generally much cheaper than in the U.S., thanks to a favorable exchange rate.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Compared to nearby cities like New York and Washington, D.C., Philadelphia might be a bargain.

There are easy ways to get downtown without needing a car and you can find sub-$100 prices on lodging per night.

Equally important, it’s not hard to fly into Philly from around the U.S. You can find roundtrip flights for around $200 on American, or less if you’re flying Spirit or Frontier.

Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City has multiple professional sports teams and plenty of restaurant options for foodies. It also doesn’t hurt that it can be quite cheap to visit.

Paying less than $100 per hotel night isn’t hard to do, which leaves you extra money to treat yourself to some delicious barbecued meats.

It’s also nice that Kansas City International Airport (MCI) has connections around the country on multiple airlines, including Southwest and Allegiant. A direct flight from New York could cost as little as $138 round trip.

9 nearly secret things to do if you fly Southwest

Bogota, Colombia

Meals for around $4 or less. Lodging for as low as $20 or $30 per night. And roundtrip flights from the $300s (or less from Florida).

Bogota is beyond affordable and definitely worth a visit. Take in all the sights and sounds, including delicious street food and colonial-era architecture.

Houston, Texas

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers flights all over the U.S. and worldwide. This makes it easy to find cheap roundtrip flights, including in the $200s or less from as far away as Seattle.

Once you arrive, you can take the 102 Bush IAH Express bus downtown for less than $2. That saves you some money to use on lodging, which can easily be under $100 per night.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a happening place, but that doesn’t mean it has to be expensive. You can find lodging for under $100 per night in downtown locations. Flights can also be affordable, typically costing $200 or less if you find a good deal.

Where you might blow your budget is on all the tasty food New Orleans has to offer, or the fun attractions, like swamp tours through gator territory.

5 signs you're doing better financially than the average American

Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas can be a huge money pit for multiple reasons, but you can save money if you do your research.

For example, staying on the Strip might seem expensive, but you can find cash prices for around $20 to $30 a night at multiple casino hotels. In some cases, even $10 or less per night is a thing.

The kicker is that you’re often on the hook for resort fees. But you can get those waived in certain situations if you have elite status with a loyalty program. For example, Diamond status with Caesars Rewards.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico is a prime location for getting the best bang for your buck. Of course, you can visit Cancun, Cabo, or Puerto Vallarta, but for a diverse urban experience, check out Mexico City.

Lodging can easily run under $100 per night and even under $50 per night. And if you’re adventurous, you won’t have any problems finding cheap eats. 

We’re talking meals for easily under $10 per person, but probably even lower if you find less touristy spots.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte has quickly become a bustling city filled with big companies and professional sports teams. And it’s the perfect place to visit if you want to lower your financial stress and open up your budget.

Sub-$100 prices per night are fairly common for lodging and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is more than big enough to offer competitive prices. 

For example, roundtrip flights in the $100s can easily be found whether you’re flying from the East or West Coast.

Bottom line

Vacations are fun, but they can get expensive. With proper planning and research, however, you can find a way to enjoy a new area for a lot less than you think by making smart money moves !

It’s truly possible to take an enjoyable trip without breaking the bank if you choose the right destination you can enjoy without worrying about overspending. 

You might even be able to leave the country on your budget!

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know
• 9 things you must do before the next recession.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
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Following Measles Outbreaks, Officials Grow Wary of Renewed Threat

Cases this year have already topped the total in 2023. Unvaccinated travelers account for most infections.

By Apoorva Mandavilli

Measles, a highly contagious but preventable disease, is resurging in pockets of the United States, a warning of the dangers of the strengthening anti-vaccine movement.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

Open this article in the New York Times Audio app on iOS.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recorded more cases this year than the 58 tallied in all of 2023, although the agency is not expected to release exact numbers until Friday. On Monday, the agency advised health care providers to ensure that unvaccinated patients, especially those traveling internationally, stay updated on their immunizations.

The number of cases is likely to keep rising because of a sharp spike in measles worldwide, along with spring travel to some regions with outbreaks, including Britain, said Dr. Manisha Patel, chief medical officer at the C.D.C.’s respiratory disease division.

Nearly all the cases in the United States so far are related to unvaccinated travelers. “We’re not going to see widespread measles cases going throughout the country,” Dr. Patel said. “But we do expect additional cases and outbreaks to happen.”

Measles is among the most contagious of diseases; each infected person can spread the virus to as many as 18 others. The virus is airborne and can stay aloft up to two hours after an infected person has left the room, spreading rapidly through homes, schools and child care facilities.

In Chicago, one case of measles at a migrant shelter has grown to 13 , prompting the C.D.C. to send a team to help contain the outbreak. (Two additional cases in the city appear to be unrelated.)

In Florida, seven students at an elementary school contracted measles even as the state’s surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, left it to parents to decide whether unvaccinated children should attend school.

In southwest Washington, officials identified measles in six unvaccinated adult members of a family living in two counties. And in Arizona, an international traveler infected with measles dined at a restaurant and transmitted the virus to at least two others .

Measles was eliminated in the United States in 2000, and American children generally must be immunized to attend school. Yet sporadic cases lead to larger outbreaks every few years. But now a drop in vaccination rates, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, has experts worried about a resurgence.

When vaccinations lag, “the first disease to appear is measles, because it’s highly infectious,” said Dr. Saad Omer, dean of the O’Donnell School of Public Health at U.T. Southwestern in Dallas.

Nine of 10 unvaccinated people in close contact with a measles patient will become infected, according to the C.D.C.

Measles is far less deadly in countries with high immunization rates and good medical care. Fewer than three of every 1,000 American children with measles will die as a result of severe complications like pneumonia or encephalitis, the swelling of the brain.

Still, about one in five people with measles may end up in a hospital.

Because widespread measles outbreaks have been rare, most Americans, including doctors, may not recognize the vibrant red rash that accompanies respiratory symptoms in a measles infection. They may have forgotten the impact of the disease on individuals and communities.

“Most of our local health department folks have never seen a measles outbreak,” said Dr. Christine Hahn, state epidemiologist of Idaho, which contained a small cluster of cases last year.

“It’s going to be a big challenge to us to respond if and when we get our next outbreak,” she said.

Before the first measles vaccine was introduced in the 1960s, the disease killed an estimated 2.6 million people worldwide each year. But its full impact may have been much greater.

Measles cripples the immune system, allowing other pathogens easier entry into the body. A 2015 study estimated that measles may have accounted for as many as half of all infectious disease deaths in children.

For about a month after the acute illness, measles can stun the body’s first response to other bacteria and viruses, said Dr. Michael Mina, chief science officer of the digital health company eMed and formerly an epidemiologist at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

That leaves patients “massively susceptible to bacterial pneumonias and other things,” said Dr. Mina, who was the lead author on the 2015 study.

“It’s very risky for people in those first few weeks post measles,” he added.

The virus also induces a sort of immune-system amnesia. Normally the body “remembers” the bacteria and viruses it has fought before. Dr. Mina and his colleagues showed in 2019 that people who have measles lose between 11 and 73 percent of their hard-won immune repertoire, a loss that can last for years.

That does not mean the body no longer recognizes those pathogens at all, but it does shrink the arsenal of weapons available to fight them.

“People should be aware that if they’re choosing not to vaccinate, that’s the position they’re putting themselves and their family in,” Dr. Mina said.

The C.D.C. recommends receiving the first dose of the measles vaccine after 12 months of age, and a second between ages 4 and 6. Even a single dose of the vaccine is 93 percent effective. Measles vaccination averted 56 million deaths between 2000 and 2021, according to the World Health Organization.

Vaccination rates in the United States have shown a distinct, if small, dip to 93 percent in the 2022-23 school year from 95 percent in 2019-20 — the level required to protect everyone in the community. Rates of vaccination exemptions increased in 40 states and the District of Columbia.

In a survey last year , just over half of Republicans said that public schools should require measles vaccinations, compared with about 80 percent before the pandemic. (Support for vaccines among Democrats held steady.)

While national or state-level vaccination rates may be high, there may be pockets of low immunization that provide tinder for the measles virus, Dr. Omer said.

If there are enough unvaccinated cases to sustain an outbreak, even those who are vaccinated but whose immunity may have waned are vulnerable, he said.

In Idaho, 12 percent of kindergarten-age children do not have a record of vaccination. Some of the gap results from parents unable or unwilling to share records with the schools, and not because their children are not immunized, Dr. Hahn said.

Still, online schools, which proliferated through the pandemic and remain popular in the state, have some of the highest rates of vaccine exemptions, she said.

In September, a young Idaho man brought measles back after international travel and became ill enough to be hospitalized . Along the way, he exposed fellow passengers on two flights, dozens of health care workers and patients, and nine unvaccinated family members. All nine developed measles.

Idaho got “very lucky” with the outbreak because the family lived in a remote area, Dr. Hahn said. But there are most likely many other areas in the state where an outbreak would be difficult to contain.

“We’ve got plenty of tinder, if you will,” she added.

Some large outbreaks in recent years exploded among huge clusters of unvaccinated people, including the Amish in Ohio and the Orthodox Jewish community in New York City.

In September 2018, one unvaccinated child returned to New York City from Israel, ferrying measles virus picked up during an outbreak in that country.

Even though the city maintains high vaccination rates, that single case set off an outbreak that raged for nearly 10 months, the largest in the country in decades. The city declared a public health emergency for the first time in more than 100 years.

“We had more than 100 chains of transmission,” said Dr. Oxiris Barbot, the city’s health commissioner at the time, and now the president and chief executive of United Hospital Fund.

“Keeping all of that straight was a challenge,” she recalled. “And to have to investigate over 20,000 exposures like that, that was huge.”

Working with community leaders, city officials hurriedly administered about 200,000 doses of vaccine. More than 550 city staff members were involved in the response, and the final cost to the city’s health department topped $8 million.

The C.D.C. is working with state and local health departments to identify pockets of low vaccination and prepare them for outbreaks, Dr. Patel said. The agency is also training health care providers to recognize measles symptoms, particularly in patients with a history of international travel.

Measles is a slippery adversary, but public health is intimately familiar with the tools needed to contain it: screening, tracing contacts and vaccinating the susceptible.

“We’re not helpless bystanders,” Dr. Omer said. “The focus needs to be on meat-and-potatoes public health.”

Audio produced by Tally Abecassis .

Apoorva Mandavilli is a reporter focused on science and global health. She was a part of the team that won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for coverage of the pandemic. More about Apoorva Mandavilli

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La alcaldía de Medellín también modificó los horarios de rumba en la zona rosa de El Poblado.

Medellín 09:56 A.M.

Fortalecen la infraestructura de 41 sedes educativas en 18 municipios de Antioquia

La gobernación avanza en una plan de mejoramiento para beneficiar a más de 30.000 estudiantes.

Medellín 09:37 A.M.

Alcalde de Medellín responde a críticas por salida del país del estadounidense sorprendido con menores en hotel

Medellín 09:19 A.M.

Nueva incursión armada del 'clan del Golfo' en el Nordeste antioqueño deja un herido

Medellín 09:04 A.M.

Pico y placa en Medellín para el martes 2 de abril de 2024: tome nota y evite multas

Cali 12:12 P.M.

Balance de seguridad de Semana Santa en Cali: destacan la reducción de homicidios

También fueron capturadas 118 personas y se incautaron 23 armas de fuego.

Cali 07:15 A.M.

Recapturan a dos hombres que se habían fugado del comando de Policía en Cartago

Se trata de dos indígenas Embera Chamí, quienes habían aprovechado un descuido de su custodio.

Cali MARZO 31 DE 2024

Esta es la historia de Tobías Suárez: el agente (R) de la Policía que cumplió 100 años

Más de 380 mil vehículos se han movilizado por las diferentes vías del Valle del Cauca

Alerta por pancarta y cilindro alusivo a las disidencias de las Farc en el sur de Cali

Barranquilla 01:11 P.M.

Envían a la cárcel a presunto implicado en masacre de Las Flores en Barranquilla

Las autoridades señalan a alias Jeremi de ser presuntamente integrante de la banda Los Costeños.

Barranquilla 11:29 A.M.

Barranquilla: Tribunal revoca preacuerdo entre exgerente de la Triple A y la Fiscalía

Llega tras la apelación de la Procuraduría sobre la aprobación de un juez, pese a cuestionamientos.

Barranquilla 08:15 A.M.

Más de 303 mil visitantes en Barranquilla por Semana Santa: Malecón, destino favorito

Barranquilla 07:12 A.M.

Ataque a tiros cobra la vida de un hombre y una mujer en Sabanagrande (Atlántico)

Barranquilla 06:00 A.M.

Barranquilla : hoy inicia el pago del subsidio de enero-febrero para adultos mayores

Otras Ciudades 12:57 P.M.

Fiscalía revela detalles detrás del macabro crimen de madre e hija en Dosquebradas

Mensajes de WhatsApp, videos y elementos encontrados en su casa hacen parte de las pruebas.

Otras Ciudades 12:26 P.M.

Santa Marta: cigarrillo se le prendió a hombre en la cara y le causó la muerte

La víctima acababa de desinfectarse con alcohol en el cuerpo y eso ocasionó la tragedia.

Otras Ciudades 12:11 P.M.

En San Marcos (Sucre), le quitan la vida a un joven por bailar con quinceañera

Otras Ciudades 11:49 A.M.

Preocupan indicadores de turismo en Santa Marta: ocupación hotelera alcanzó el 77 %

Otras Ciudades 10:58 A.M.

Más de 50 familias damnificadas por lluvias en Jenesano, Boyacá

Latinoamérica 12:30 P.M.

Camila Gómez, niña asesinada en México: las críticas sobre el manejo del caso

Activistas, políticos y figuras públicas se han sumado a las voces de rechazo por el crimen.

Latinoamérica 12:02 P.M.

Caso Rólex en Perú: Boluarte desautoriza recurso presentado a su favor tras allanamiento

La presidenta alegó que el abogado que desarrolló el habeas corpus no es parte de su equipo legal.

Latinoamérica 12:00 P.M.

Conmoción en Chile: detuvieron a una mujer, le quitó el arma a un guardia y empezó a disparar

Latinoamérica 11:39 A.M.

El video de la pequeña Kevelin Sofía minutos antes de ser raptada en Brasil

Latinoamérica 08:34 A.M.

Detienen en Venezuela al 'youtuber' Óscar Alejandro tras ser acusado de terrorismo

Venezuela 09:39 A.M.

Venezuela: Machado dice que aún hay tiempo para sustituir a candidato de la oposición

La exdiputada venezolana también les pidió a sus seguidores mantener la confianza en el proceso.

Venezuela MARZO 31 DE 2024

Los riesgos que puede desatar una crisis regional por las elecciones en Venezuela

Las críticas de Colombia y Brasil provocaron un cambio de tono del chavismo.

Venezuela MARZO 30 DE 2024

María Corina Machado agradece a Petro por su pronunciamiento contra veto en Venezuela

Venezuela MARZO 29 DE 2024

Fiscal de Venezuela: detenido 'vinculado' a Vente Venezuela 'intentó suicidarse'

Líder chavista arremete contra Petro y Lula: ‘Métanse sus opiniones por donde les quepan’

EEUU 12:05 P.M.

Si solicita la visa americana, ¿le revisan DataCrédito y podrían negársela por estar reportado?

Entre los requisitos para acceder a la visa está comprobar su capacidad costear el viaje. 

EEUU 11:00 A.M.

¿Hay repunte de Biden en elecciones de Estados Unidos? Esto dicen últimos sondeos

Pese a que carrera sigue apretada, presidente viene mejorando en estados clave. 

EEUU 10:43 A.M.

La avenida de Chicago que está entre las 30 ‘más cool’ del mundo

EEUU 10:42 A.M.

La desgarradora llamada al 911 de una mujer de EE. UU. que mató a su mamá con una olla

EEUU 10:14 A.M.

Los horóscopos de Niño Prodigio para hoy lunes 1 de abril

Europa 11:08 A.M.

Síndrome de La Habana: ¿la inteligencia rusa está detrás de la misteriosa enfermedad?

Una investigación periodística reveló nuevos detalles sobre esta enfermedad.

Europa 10:46 A.M.

Así operan las bombas aéreas de Rusia que atemorizan al ejército de Ucrania

En marzo, el ejército ruso lanzó un 50 % más de este tipo de ataques sobre suelo ucraniano.

Europa 09:08 A.M.

Rusia vinculó el atentado de Moscú con los ataques de Ucrania a regiones fronterizas

Europa 09:07 A.M.

Colombianos, los extranjeros con más crecimiento en permisos de residencia en España

Europa 08:31 A.M.

¿Por qué Grecia endureció requisitos de los 'visados de oro' a ciudadanos no europeos?

África MARZO 30 DE 2024

45 personas mueren luego de que un bus cayera a un precipicio en Sudáfrica; un niño sobrevivió

El bus transportaba a unos feligreses que se dirigían a una peregrinación de Pascua.

África MARZO 8 DE 2024

Hombres armados secuestran a más de 200 alumnos de una escuela en Nigeria

Hace 10 años, más de 250 alumnas fueron secuestradas por el grupo Boko Haram. 

África MARZO 4 DE 2024

Este es el atractivo destino en África que los colombianos pueden visitar sin visa

África FEBRERO 28 DE 2024

Ghana aprueba ley anti-LGBTIQ+: hasta tres años de prisión por identificarse

¿Quién es el 'Pablo Escobar del Sáhara' que tiene en jaque a la élite de Marruecos?

Medio Oriente 12:58 P.M.

Irán promete responder con dureza al ataque de Israel contra su consulado en Siria

Tras el bombardeo, las autoridades iraníes reportaron la muerte de dos altos generales.

Medio Oriente 11:27 A.M.

El Parlamento de Israel prohíbe la retransmisión del canal catarí Al Jazeera

Una nueva ley prohíbe retransmitir cualquier medio que 'dañe la seguridad del Estado'.

Medio Oriente 12:40 P.M.

Bombardeo israelí contra consulado de Irán en Siria mata a alto cargo militar iraní

Medio Oriente 06:33 A.M.

Gaza: el importante hospital Shifa, totalmente fuera de servicio por asalto de Israel

Medio Oriente MARZO 31 DE 2024

Más de 100.000 israelíes protestan en Jerusalén contra Netanyahu para pedir elecciones

¿Qué se sabe de la operación a la que será sometido el primer ministro de Israel?

Al menos ocho muertos por la explosión de una bomba en un mercado de Siria

Medio Oriente MARZO 29 DE 2024

Israel autoriza nueva ronda de conversaciones para negociar tregua en Gaza

Bombardeos de israel en siria dejan como saldo más de 40 muertos.

Medio Oriente MARZO 28 DE 2024

Estados Islámico llama a ataques en Europa y Estados Unidos por la guerra en Gaza

La CIJ le exige a Israel evitar un genocidio y dejar de impedir acceso de ayuda a Gaza

Medio Oriente MARZO 27 DE 2024

¿Por qué el lanzamiento aéreo de ayuda humanitaria en Gaza es criticado?

Israel afirma que dio de baja a subjefe militar del grupo Hamás y a otro integrante 'administrativo'

¿Por qué Israel quiere desmantelar operaciones de agencia para refugiados palestinos en Gaza?

Israel mantiene bombardeos en Gaza y el asedio a hospitales, pese a llamados a tregua

Israel pide al mundo apoyar a las víctimas y condenar las agresiones sexuales de hamás.

Negociaciones para una tregua en Gaza, ¿en riesgo de fracasar nuevamente?

Medio Oriente MARZO 26 DE 2024

Israel responde a Petro: 'Su apoyo a Hamás es una vergüenza para el pueblo colombiano'

Medio Oriente MARZO 25 DE 2024

Israel cancela viaje de una delegación a EE. UU. por no vetar resolución de alto al fuego en la ONU

Consejo de Seguridad de la ONU aprueba por primera vez resolución que pide 'alto el fuego inmediato' en Gaza

Asia 11:50 A.M.

Científico chino que creó primeros bebés genéticamente modificados retoma investigación tras salir de cárcel

He Jiankui fue condenado a tres años de cárcel en 2019.

Asia 10:12 A.M.

Familia real de Japón debuta en Instagram y logra miles de seguidores en pocas horas

La apertura del perfil de la Casa imperial busca estrechar lazos con la ciudadanía.

Asia 04:26 A.M.

Un estudio indica que todos los japoneses tendrán el mismo apellido dentro de 500 años

Asia MARZO 29 DE 2024

Farmacéutica japonesa sigue sin esclarecer causas de muertes vinculadas a sus productos

Asia MARZO 27 DE 2024

La historia de la única mujer que se ha unido a la yakuza japonesa

Matrimonio igualitario en Tailandia, a punto de aprobación definitiva en el Parlamento

Asia MARZO 26 DE 2024

Supremo de Japón reconoce derecho a indemnización de parejas gay víctimas de crímenes

China apuesta por una nueva reforma del fútbol base para impulsar el deporte en el país

Asia MARZO 25 DE 2024

China castigó a 269 personas relacionadas con 'prácticas espirituales ilegales'

Asia MARZO 24 DE 2024

Oposición india convoca una gran marcha contra el Gobierno a un mes de las elecciones.

Asia MARZO 23 DE 2024

Familia de Edwin Arrieta asegura que Sancho cometió 'asesinato' y no fue en defensa propia

Asia MARZO 22 DE 2024

Japón, en alerta por las cifras récord de una 'enfermedad carnívora'

Esta es la millonaria indemnización que familia de Edwin Arrieta le pedirá a Daniel Sancho

El café colombiano 'marca la pauta' en China: así se vive la experiencia en Shanghái

Asia MARZO 21 DE 2024

Niño muere tras caer de tercer piso en un centro comercial: se resbaló de los brazos de su padre

Daniel Sancho rompe su silencio antes de juicio por asesinato de Edwin Arrieta: dice que lo va a 'absolver' del crimen

Un terremoto de magnitud 5,3 sacude el centro de Japón

Asia MARZO 20 DE 2024

Tras 13 años de explosión del reactor de Fukushima, por primera vez un dron fotografió cómo se ve por dentro

Un barco surcoreano se volcó frente a la costa de Japón: ocho tripulantes murieron

El presidente de Vietnam presenta su dimisión tras ser acusado de irregularidades

Más Regiones MARZO 27 DE 2024

¿Qué tan probable es que los países adopten un acuerdo que ayude a evitar futuras pandemias?

Los 194 países que hacen parte de la OMS discuten desde hace dos años este punto. ¿En qué va eso?

Más de 1.050 millones de toneladas de comida se desperdiciaron en 2022, según la ONU

Informe señala que eso sucedió cuando un tercio de la humanidad enfrentaba inseguridad alimentaria.

Más Regiones MARZO 26 DE 2024

Rescatan a un hombre atrapado durante unas 30 horas en una alcantarilla en Australia

Más Regiones MARZO 25 DE 2024

Tres muertos y cientos de casas destruidas por terremoto de magnitud 6,9 en Papúa Nueva Guinea

Más Regiones MARZO 21 DE 2024

¿Por qué Canadá reducirá la cifra de trabajadores temporales extranjeros?

La Asamblea General de la ONU pide 'normas' ante riesgos de la inteligencia artificial

Más Regiones MARZO 19 DE 2024

Pilas: estas son las rutas aéreas con más turbulencias del mundo

Más Regiones MARZO 18 DE 2024

Australia: Uber acuerda pagar más de 190 millones de dólares a miles de taxistas

Más Regiones MARZO 16 DE 2024

La historia de los migrantes haitianos que deben regresar a su país pese a la oleada de violencia

Más Regiones MARZO 15 DE 2024

El pueblo surcoreano escondido a pocos metros de la frontera con Corea del Norte

Así fue como Finlandia logró reducir a la mitad su tasa de suicidios

Más Regiones MARZO 13 DE 2024

Así va investigación tras 'incidente' de avión de Latam en vuelo a Chile: lo que reveló caja negra

Más Regiones MARZO 12 DE 2024

Latam se pronuncia por incidente de avión en el que 13 personas resultaron heridas

Más Regiones MARZO 11 DE 2024

Vuelo de Latam: videos y fotos de momentos de angustia tras 'incidente técnico'

'Incidente técnico' en avión de Latam, que cubría ruta Sídney-Chile, deja 13 heridos

Más Regiones MARZO 9 DE 2024

Expresidente Fujimori montará su defensa en redes sociales / Una vuelta al mundo

Más Regiones MARZO 7 DE 2024

El 2023 fue el año más mortífero para los migrantes en una década, según la ONU

Más Regiones MARZO 1 DE 2024

¿Cuáles son las principales preocupaciones de las personas en el mundo?

Más Regiones FEBRERO 27 DE 2024

México| Protestas por ciudadano homosexual detenido en Catar: 'Lo están torturando'

Colombia, Ecuador, Rusia y zonas palestinas aumentan riesgo para viajar, según estudio

Encuentra acá todos los signos del zodiaco. Tenemos para ti consejos de amor, finanzas y muchas cosas más.

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Gobierno 01:17 P.M.

Colombia y Argentina: detalles desconocidos de cómo se evitó el quiebre de las relaciones

Gente 01:10 P.M.

La pista de aeropuerto más peligrosa del mundo: aterrizar es una pesadilla

Se rebotó baño de un avión en pleno vuelo y tuvo que devolverse: experiencia nauseabunda

Unidad Investigativa 12:00 A.M.

‘Yo presté dinero para la compra de carrotanques’: habla ficha clave del escándalo

Bogotá 06:45 A.M.

Policías en Bogotá que perseguían a ladrones terminaron accidentados y robados en la avenida Circunvalar

Fútbol Colombiano MARZO 28 DE 2024

Así luce, 15 años después, el niño que debutó como futbolista profesional en Santa Fe

Latinoamérica 12:00 A.M.

Javier Milei lanza nuevas críticas a Petro y a otros presidentes de Latinoamérica: esto dijo

Unidad Investigativa 09:38 A.M.

Hablan voceros del lujoso hotel en Medellín donde hallaron 2 menores con estadounidense

Mis Portales

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What is the most visited national park in the US? Answers to your biggest park questions

Most people have heard of Yosemite’s Half Dome or Yellowstone's Old Faithful , but how about the largest national park? Or which gets the most visitors each year? 

USA TODAY rounded up answers to the most popular park questions to help travelers better understand these national treasures and share some fun trivia with family and friends on their next park visit.

Here are 10 things to know about America’s national parks .

What is the most visited national park in the US? 

Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in America, by far. Last year, it drew nearly three times the visitors as the second-most visited park, Grand Canyon , according to National Park Service data .

These were the 15 most visited national parks in 2023:

• Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee - 13,297,647
• Grand Canyon in Arizona - 4,733,705
• Zion in Utah - 4,623,238
• Yellowstone in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming - 4,501,382
• Rocky Mountain in Colorado - 4,115,837
• Yosemite in California - 3,897,070
• Acadia in Maine - 3,879,890
• Grand Teton in Wyoming - 3,417,106
• Joshua Tree in California  - 3,270,404
• Olympic National Park in Washington - 2,947,503
• Glacier National Park in Montana - 2,933,616
• Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio - 2,860,059
• Indiana Dunes in Indiana - 2,765,892
• Hot Springs in Arkansas - 2,502,967
• Bryce Canyon in Utah - 2,461,269

The least visited national park is Gates of the Arctic in Alaska, which drew 11,045 visitors last year even though there are no roads to get there.“Even for Alaska, Gates of the Arctic is sort of above all the rest in terms of difficulty of reaching it, solitude, remoteness,” Peter Christian, chief spokesperson for Public Affairs for the National Park Service’s Alaska region, previously told USA TODAY.  

'Finding hidden gems': America's least visited national parks

What are the big 3 national parks?

When people think of national parks, three loom large in many minds: Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite. 

However, they’re neither the three most visited national parks nor the largest in size. 

What is the largest US national park?

Wrangell-St. Elias is the biggest of all. It’s more than three times the size of Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite national parks combined. 

The three biggest national parks are all in Alaska:

• Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve - 13.2 million acres
• Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve - nearly 8.5 million acres
• Denali National Park & Preserve - more than 4.7 million acres

The smallest national park is Gateway Arch in Missouri, at roughly 91 acres.

What is the newest national park?

New River Gorge , in West Virginia, became America’s newest national park in December 2020.

It was previously designated a national river. 

Story continues below.

How many national parks are in the US?

There are 63 national parks across the country, including two in U.S. territories.

USA TODAY has been spotlighting each one in a yearlong series that shares insights and tips from the park rangers who know them best.

Has anyone been to all 63 national parks?

Yes. Multiple people have accomplished this bucket list feat, including Stefanie Payne, who visited all 63 parks within one year and wrote about them in " 100 Things to See in the National Parks ."

“The Alaska parks are the ones that are deepest in my heart because they are in such a remote and rugged landscape,” she previously told USA TODAY . “It's really just mind-bending to be in some of those areas, especially when the mountains are so big and the glaciers and the terrain is really challenging and you start to see what you're made of.”

What state has the best national parks?

Many national parks fans point to Utah’s Mighty Five : Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion, but best is subjective. 

“I'm sure every park is like, ‘Everywhere is the best.’ It's all so good, right?” Petrified Forest National Park park ranger Jessica Barnett told USA TODAY.

Which state has the most number of national parks?

California has the most national parks, with nine: Channel Islands, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, Pinnacles, Redwood, Sequoia, and Yosemite.

Death Valley actually straddles California and Nevada. A number of America’s national parks span multiple states.

What state has no national park? 

There are no national parks in Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont or Wisconsin.

However, all 50 states are home to other National Park Service units , like national battlefields and seashores, which are sometimes called parks.

The National Park System currently has 429 units. The most recent addition is Amanche National Historic Site in Colorado. Travelers can find sites by state on the National Park Service’s website .

What is a national park a park for? 

When Yellowstone became America’s first national park in 1872, Congress designated it “a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people,” but national parks have come to offer and protect much more.

“The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations,” according the mission shared on its website. 

To help protect these spaces, visitors are asked to leave no trace .

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY

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Mumbai overtakes Beijing to become Asia's billionaire capital for the first time

Move over, Beijing.

Mumbai is now the Asian capital with the most number of billionaires, overtaking Beijing, according to Hurun Research Institute's global rich list . 

This is the first time that India's most populous city has taken the top spot in Asia.

Topping the 2024 global rich list for cities is New York (119), followed by London (97). In Asia, Mumbai — India's financial capital — moved ahead with 92 billionaires, according to Hurun. Following close behind are Beijing (91) and Shanghai (87). 

Top 10 cities with the most billionaires

There are currently 3,279 billionaires globally, a 5% increase from 2023, the report showed. 

According to the country ranking, China still tops the list with 814 billionaires even though the country lost 155 billionaires from a year ago. The U.S. came in second with 800 billionaires while India came in third with 271.

"China had a bad year," the research firm noted. "Wealth creation in China has gone through deep changes these last few years, with the wealth of billionaires from real estate and renewables down."

Top 10 countries with the most billionaires

China's Zhong Shanshan, founder and chairman of bottled water giant Nongfu Spring , maintained his spot as China's richest person. Colin Huang, founder of e-commerce player Pinduoduo , leaped ahead of Tencent CEO Ma Huateng and snatched second place this year.

The U.S. – which added 109 billionaires in 2023 — only has 14 billionaires fewer than China, according to Hurun.

Artificial intelligence was a significant driver for the increase in ultra-wealthy people in the U.S., the report showed.

"Whilst [Nvidia CEO] Jensen Huang has grabbed many of the headlines as Nvidia broke through the $2 trillion mark, catapulting him into the Hurun Top 30 as a result, the billionaires behind Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle and Meta have seen significant surges in their wealth as investors bet on the value generated by AI," the report said.

Bloomberg's Billionaires index showed that Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Tesla CEO Elon Musk are the top two billionaires in the U.S. with a net worth of $201 billion and $190 billion respectively.

Taylor Swift joined Hurun Research's list with a net worth of $1.2 billion after beginning her Eras Tour in March, and performing in the U.S., South America, Australia, Singapore and Tokyo so far.

"Over half her fortune stems from royalties and touring, including US$190 million from the Eras tour's first leg and US$35 million from its concert film. The rest is buoyed by her music catalogue's value, notably after her first six albums were sold to Shamrock Capital for US$300 million in 2020," the report said.

After the U.S., India had the second largest new additions with 84 new members on its ultra-rich list.

The South Asian nation is now the world's fastest growing economy after GDP grew 8.4% in the October-December period.

In December, India's stock market overtook Hong Kong's to become the seventh largest in the world, and is now valued at over $4 trillion, data from Refinitiv showed.

India's Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani continues to be the wealthiest person in Asia, and eleventh richest in the world, with a total net worth of $110 billion, according to Bloomberg's index.

In January, Gautam Adani, founder and chairman of the Adani Group, overtook Ambani briefly , but is now three spots behind with a net worth of $97.9 billion, Bloomberg data showed.

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