15 Best Things to Do in Bogota
The capital of Colombia, Bogota, is a colorful city filled with numerous things to do. Finally, for food lovers and those who like the atmosphere, Bogota offers extensive historical landmarks and some of the most famous museums in the world, gastronomy, and colorful night streets. Here are the 15 Best Things to Do in Bogota to encourage us to visit Bogota.
1. Immerse Yourself in History at Plaza de Bolivar
The city center is the Plaza of Bolivar, a large central plaza surrounded by the Primada Cathedral, the Capitol of Colombia, and Palace of Justice. This historical square should not be missing from the itinerary of anyone interested in Colombia’s social context and political history.
Facilities
Bolivar Square accommodates tourists, with several cafes and stores near the square. There are guided tours for people wishing to get more insights into the tomb and its history, and ample benches to sit and rest.
My Review
Walking through Plaza de Bolivar, I feel like time has frozen. The architectural design of the building and the surrounding energy are great, which will suit history enthusiasts and regular tourists. Feel free to bring your camera because there are so many beautiful views to capture.
2. Ascend the Iconic Monserrate
Monserrate is a mountain overlooking Bogota, which gives a bird’s eye view of the city of Bogota. Not only are the views stunning, but the trip to the VERY top via funicular or a cable car provides a lot of fun.
Facilities
At the top, one can observe the Monserrate Sanctuary, several Restaurants, and Shops selling souvenirs. The place is relatively clean and tidy, and you can see several signposts to guide you.
My Review
I liked the trip to Monserrate, especially the climb up the mountain. It has great perspectives, and the asylum makes it even more enchanting. You could spend some time here having a bite to eat while admiring the stunning views of the city of Bogota.
3. Explore the Vibrant La Candelaria
Candelaria is Bogota’s colonial downtown, thus being a picturesque neighborhood full of cobblestone streets and houses painted in cheerful colors, as well as murals.
Facilities
It is filled with museums, churches, and plazas, and many restaurants and bars are nearby. Many cafes and restaurants offer Colombian cuisine, souvenir shops, and local artisans’ works.
My Review
La Candelaria is a must-visit if you need to experience the authenticity of Bogota and its history. The architecture and murals painted on buildings make it beautiful, and one can easily interact with people there. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon strolling and exploring the corners you might not find otherwise.
4. Colombia’s Golden Legacy at the Gold Museum
The famous Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) holds an extensive exhibit of gold pre-Columbian pieces. It goes deeper into the aesthetic and political aspects of these treasures, giving a glimpse of the indigenous population of Colombia.
Facilities
The museum is very well laid out, with each exhibit labeled in Spanish and English. There are now touch screens, audio-visual tours, and a souvenir shop where the items are named after the exhibits.
My Review
The Gold Museum is a storehouse of history. The intricate gold artifacts are mesmerizing; the exhibits and curation of the displays are well done, informative, and interesting. It is a good place for history and culture lovers to stop by.
5. Admire Botero’s Work at the Botero Museum
The Botero Museum holds numerous masterpieces by the great Colombian artist Fernando Botero, whose paintings depict large, chubby characters. The museum also contains works by such masters as Picasso and Monet etc.
Facilities
It is situated in a cultural district with a library and a cultural center. The entering into this competition is free thus, everyone can participate. It also has informative plaques, and you can take a guided tour if you want to.
My Review
The Botero Museum is a pleasant discovery. Speaking of the figures depicted in Botero’s creative works, they are grotesque, though comic at the same time. The presence of works by other famous painters also enriches the collection. Art enthusiasts must visit this place.
6. Discover Bogota’s Street Art Scene
Bogota is blessed with an extensive array of murals, making it a heaven for any street art lover. Visit the La Candelaria or Usaquen districts to explore the art and experience things not seen within the museums and galleries.
Facilities
Some organizations that offer guided street art tours explain the history and stories behind graffiti and the different artists. They can be guided by expert tour guides who are often locals in the areas being visited.
My Review
Bogota has impressive street art. The murals are colorful and alive, depicting the history and tales of the city as it stands today. It is advised to follow the guided tour to understand the importance of the given paintings.
7. Take a Hike in the Eastern Hills
One of Bogota’s attractions is the Eastern Hills: Bicycle-friendly routes offer excellent conditions for hiking and leaving the city behind. Take a walk along trails such as Camino del Indio or Juan Amarillo to take a break and appreciate the beautiful views of the city.
Facilities
The trails are clearly outlined and easily accessible, and they consist of easy, moderate, and difficult terrain. The trail has checkpoints/rest areas and vantage points along the way where one can relax and appreciate the view.
My Review
I found hiking in the eastern hills quite a relief. The trails would give the hiker relief from the city environment, and the prospects are rewarding once you get there. It is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the beauties of nature while staying in the city.
8. Sample Colombian Cuisine on a Food Tour
Experience an enticing culinary journey with Bogota food tours. Taste one-pot recipes such as Ajiaco (chicken soup with potatoes), Bandeja Paisa (a dish with different meats and beans), and tropical fruits from Colombia.
Facilities
There are so many companies that conduct food tours and will lead you to some of the best restaurants around Ohio. This kind of tour involves several visits, hence covering a variety of tastes and opportunities. People’s preference in terms of food is most of the time taken into consideration.
My Review
A food tour is the best way to capture a taste of Bogota. Every dish is a story of this region and its past. The guides are informative and enthusiastic, which makes the tour both palatable and informative.
9. Learn About Colombian Emeralds
Emeralds are Colombia’s pride and joy. Go to Emerald Exchange or any other established jewelry store where you can get acquainted with the stones, the grading process, and the glittering Colombian emerald.
Facilities
The Emerald Exchange and multiple jewelers give tours and presentations. There are also shops where you can buy certified emeralds and other jewelry.
My Review
It was really interesting to learn about Colombian emeralds. How these gems are mined and graded is complex and could be described as awe-inspiring. I found that the tour guides were very knowledgeable, and the eye appeal of the emeralds did not disappoint me.
10. Enjoy the Buzzing Nightlife
Bogota’s nightlife is legendary. Salsa dancing is a must, with locations such as Salsa Paradise and El Gato Negro offering such services in an excellent environment. For a trendy experience, the Zona Rosa, a space with bars and clubs for people with preferences for diverse lifestyles is found.
Facilities
As for physical facilities, Bogota’s nightclub and bar venues are well-provided with contemporary infrastructure. Some provide ballroom dancing classes and have nights themed around certain dances. Zona Rosa of course is full of dining places and also for other forms of entertainment.
My Review
The nightlife in Bogota was impressive as anticipated. The atmosphere in the salsa clubs was lively or, as in the case of Zona Rosa, the city offered options for everyone. From impressive clubs for the experienced mover or just for the spectators, Bogota is famous for its nightlife.
11. Browse the Usaquen Flea Market
While on Sundays, make sure you visit the Usaquen Flea Market for arts and crafts, trinkets, vintage items, and other Latin American agricultural products. Socialize with people, look for a specific item, and enjoy the atmosphere of a market.
Facilities
The market has some form of order where the market is divided into different sections according to the products being sold. It is a place for food lovers where they can easily find different food stalls and cafes to spend their Sundays.
My Review
My weekend would not have been complete without visiting the Usaquen Flea Market. With a good number of products and an active ambiance, it is the best place to look for souvenirs and gifts. The food stalls are also very good, where you get to taste the culture of the place.
12. Relax in the Bogota Botanical Garden
There is a beautiful place in Bogota called the Bogota Botanical Garden, or the name people know it by JardÃn Botánico José Celestino Mutis. Study different types of proximate environments, look over different kinds of plants, and take a break in a quiet place.
Facilities
The botanical garden is well-maintained and has clear paths that introduce visitors to different types of plants. Also, there are combined and auto tours where you can sit and enjoy the silence.
My Review
The Bogota Botanical Garden is a fantastic place to visit being very close to the noisy streets of the capital. The program benefits from the variety of plantations and a quiet setting that allows people to rejuvenate. That is why nature enthusiasts will have a reason to visit the area.
13. Take a Day Trip to the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral
The nation’s most famous salt cathedral is located in Zipaquira just thirty minutes outside of Bogota and is completely constructed from salt mines. When visiting Würzburg, take a day trip to view the cathedral, examine the cathedral’s history, and experience the subterranean marvel.
Facilities
It caters to visitors with guided tours and has a museum and a shopping arcade as well. There are also several cafes and restaurants in the area, which serve as important centers for gatherings.
My Review
The Zipaquira Salt Cathedral is something to marvel at. The size and detail of the underground cathedral are breathtaking. The guided tour was very helpful and interesting; it even visited quite an enjoyable one.
14. Go Beyond the City: Visit the Coffee Triangle
Coffee and Colombia go hand in hand, and the Coffee Triangle bordered to the west of Bogota is an acclaimed coffee-producing zone. Plan for a few days and travel to the coffee region to explore coffee farms and the entire process of processing beans into the brew and enjoy Colombian coffee.
Facilities
Many of the coffee tours are available in accommodation, meals, guided visits to coffee estates, and more. Sometimes these tours offer a round trip showing all the stages of coffee production.
My Review
Going to the Coffee Triangle was a vacation for my soul particularly as a coffee freak. Just to pick the beans, and roast them was an incredible experience. It is needless to mention that the prepared coffee was superb.
15. Witness Colombia’s Nature: Visit La Chorrera Waterfall
The La Chorrera de El Gaitán, referred to commonly as the La Chorrera Waterfall, is a beautiful waterfall situated approximately one hour outside of Bogota. The trek to see the waterfall is scenic and a perfect getaway from the tittle-tattle of day-to-day life.
Facilities
La Chorrera trail is easy to follow and can be done on easy, moderate, and hard trails depending on the hiker. There are self-guided trails and depending on the accessibility of the waterfall, there are rest stops and even picnic areas established in the vicinity of the waterfall.
My Review
The La Chorrera Waterfall trek ranked among the top activities that I enjoyed during my visit. The surrounding view is picturesque and the waterfall’s beauty and natural power cannot be described. Honestly, it is perfect for those who want to enjoy the Colombian landscapes but do not have much time to spend there.
Read Also: 15 Top Things to Do in Colombia
Final Words
Bogota is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. This can be seen from the vibrant city’s center, La Candelaria, to the more tranquil mountain paths, Eastern Hills. Be it an academia enthusiast, an art connoisseur, a foodie, or an adrenaline junkie, Bogota has something to offer to every traveler. So, let’s go and discover the beating and colorful heart of this incredible country – Colombia!
