Planning a trip to Bogota? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! This Bogota Travel Guide will help you uncover a city brimming with culture, history, and delightful surprises. Whether you’re here to savor its incredible cuisine, take in breathtaking views, or feel the vibrant energy of Colombia’s capital, you’ll find everything you need to make your visit truly exceptional.
We’ll dive into:
- The weather and best time to visit
- Where to stay
- Top things to do
- What to eat
- Hidden gems only locals know about
Why Visit Bogota?
At 2,600 meters above sea level (8,530 feet), Bogota sits high in the Eastern Andes, with over 11 million people calling this dynamic city home. Due to it’s rich culture and gastronomical offer it’s becoming a must-destination in Colombia. It is the perfect mix of culture, nature, and history. From colorful street art to centuries-old traditions, Bogota has something for everyone.
Bogota Weather: What You Need to Know
Bogota’s weather might surprise you. Thanks to its location in the Andes, the city has a cool climate year-round. Temperatures range from 46°F to 70°F (8°C to 21°C). Mornings and evenings are chilly, so pack a sweater or jacket.
Rainy Months
- March–June
- September–December
Dryer Months
- January–March
- June–August
Even during the dry season, rain can be unpredictable. An umbrella or light raincoat is always a good idea!
Where to stay in Bogota
Bogota is divided into 20 districts (localidades) and over 1,900 neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. Here are our top picks:
- La Candelaria: Perfect for history buffs and short visits. This is the city’s cultural heart, with museums, colonial architecture, and cobblestone streets. Recommended for short stays as it is close to the main tourist attractions and the airport.
- Zona G and Chapinero Alto: Ideal for LGBTQ+ community, couples or groups of friends.
- Zona T: Perfect for those who want to experience nightlife in Bogota.
- Park 93 & Virrey: Great for families, with plenty of green spaces and restaurants.
- Usaquén: A quieter area, perfect for longer stays. It’s far from the airport but full of charm, especially on weekends.
Top Things to Do in Bogota
Bogota is packed with unique experiences. Here are our top 10 things to do:
- Stroll through La Candelaria: This historic district is home to landmarks like Plaza de Bolívar and Chorro de Quevedo. Don’t miss the street art!
- Hike up Monserrate: Get the best panoramic view of the city at this iconic hilltop sanctuary.
- Visit Bogota’s museums:
- Gold Museum: See one of the world’s largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
- Botero Museum: Admire works by Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero.
- Explore Paloquemao Market: Taste exotic fruits and admire the flower alleys.
- Bike around the city: Bogota has over 390 miles (630 km) of bike paths. Sundays are perfect for the ciclovía, when streets are closed to cars.
- Play Tejo: This explosive national game is even more fun with a beer in hand.
- Visit the Salt Cathedral: A breathtaking underground temple, just an hour outside Bogota.
- Discover La Chorrera Waterfall: Colombia’s tallest waterfall is only 1.5 hours from the city.
- Go coffee crawling: Taste Bogota’s best brews or visit a nearby coffee farm.
- Eat a Lot! From local cuisine, contemporary restaurants, fine dining and much more, Bogota is a foodie’s dream.
What to Eat in Bogota
No trip to Bogota is complete without tasting its cuisine. Here’s what to try:
- Empanadas: Golden and stuffed with potatoes, meat, or cheese.
- Ajiaco: A hearty chicken and potato soup with corn and capers.
- Hot chocolate with cheese: Yes, you read that right!
- Fresh juices: Made from exotic fruits like lulo, guanabana, and feijoa.
- Obleas: Wafers filled with caramel (arequipe).
Looking for a deeper dive into Bogota’s food scene? Check out our ultimate food tour or Paloquemao fruit market experience!
Hidden Gems in Bogota
Want to discover Bogota beyond the tourist spots? Here are our favorite hidden gems:
- Fragmentos: A space of art and memory, built after the 2016 peace agreement with FARC. Ideal for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of Colombia’s recent history.
- Las Moyas Hike: The best hike within Bogota, and no, it’s not Monserrate! Las Moyas is a private nature reserve open Tuesday to Sunday from 8 AM to 12 PM. It’s the perfect spot to reconnect with nature, enjoy fresh air, and take in a breathtaking view of the city.
- Caña Aguardienteria & Bodega: quirky bar redefining traditional Colombian spirits. They experiment with drinks like tapetusa, viche, and fermented fruit-based moonshines, crafting creative cocktails that surprise both locals and visitors alike.
