Everyone who is going to Colombia will probably fly to Bogota. Although Colombia attracts travelers mainly with nature, the rainforests and the Caribbean, If you have a few days to spare, there is a lot that the capital city of Colombia Bogota has to offer. We were so fascinated by Bogota that we spent 9 days here with our local friends, who showed us secluded places in the vicinity that we probably would never have discovered without them. We have 13 interesting places for you to see in Bogota and its surroundings.
What should you think about when planning a trip to Bogota
Before we explore together what the capital of Colombia, Bogota and other cities are like, we have some practical information for you to start with.
What is security in Bogota
Everyone who is going to Colombia is probably interested in the issue of security in Colombia. It is different in different parts of this country, but in general, it is less safe in big cities than somewhere in nature, and the city center is often a center of higher crime. Therefore, it is always best to consult, for example, in accommodation, which places to avoid. And if you don’t have someone local with you, better not to wander anywhere at night. What to watch out for?
- Don’t carry more money with you,
- Keep money in multiple places,
- Do not carry with you any expensive things that could attract attention,
- Stick to places where there are a lot of people,
- Do not withdraw money from ATMs on the street (withdraw from those that are inside buildings and shopping centers),
- If you have a backpack, watch out for it,
- Try to blend in with the locals.
Tip: What security does Colombia have: 6 tips on what to (not) do in Colombia
TIP: What security does Colombia have and tips to watch out for
When to go to Bogotá
Although Bogota will probably not be the only destination of your trip to Colombia, it is good to know that Bogota is located at a higher altitude and although this area may be considered a tropical climate, it is The weather in Bogota is quite unstable. The most precipitation here rains from about the month of April to July, while it is quite dry here from December to March, so this range is the best time to visit. But definitely pack a waterproof jacket, it will probably come in handy in the city as well.
TIP: How about visiting the famous drugMedellin or a colonial cityCartagena de IndiasOn the Caribbean coast?
Transportation in Bogotá
We warn you in advance that Traffic in Bogotá and throughout the country seems incredible to you. We definitely do not recommend renting a car here. The fastest way to get around the city is the Transmilenio buses, which have their own lane all over the city, which you will really appreciate, Because otherwise there are traffic jams everywhere and always (for example, we stood in traffic at 3 in the morning because of it and missed the plane).
TIP: Are you already packing your bags for Colombia? With a backpack on our backs, we wandered across the country for over a month and chose 15 most beautiful places to see in Colombia.
The capital of Colombia Bogota and 12 places to see in and around Bogotá
Do you have a few days in Bogotá and want to use them to the fullest? I believe that our tips on what to see in Bogota and the surrounding area will inspire you. I think 2 days are enough for you in the city itself, but there is really a lot in the area. From waterfalls, national parks, picturesque villages to the legacy of drug cartels. Everyone will find something for themselves. In Bogotá, we liked the climb to Monserrate and the historic district of La Candelaria the most. From the surroundings then Villa de Leyva, Laguna de Guatavita and Nimaima.
1. La Candelaria Quarter and Bogota’s Historic Heart
Every traveler will probably delve into the historic center. The capital of Colombia, Bogota, really offers a lot, so it If you want to start your adventure in Bogotá, the historic district of La Candelaria is the right place. This picturesque neighborhood, located in the very center of the city, represents An authentic piece of Colombian history and culture. Narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses with wooden balconies and colorfully painted facades create an atmosphere that will instantly absorb you.
2. Plaza de Bolívar Square
In the La Candelaria district there is also the main square Plaza de Bolívar. In the square you will see beautiful colonial buildings, in addition, you can take a picture with the llama, feed the pigeons and eat something good. The square was originally known as Plaza Mayor and from 1821 was named Plaza de la Constitución.
It is located on the northern edge of the square Palace of Justice, while the Southern side is framed by the National Capitol, the seat of the Colombian Congress. The mayor’s palace (Palacio Liévano), built between 1902 and 1905, is located on the west side. On the eastern side, the primary Bogotá Cathedral, which was built at the beginning of the 19th century, dominates.
3. Botero Museum – Bizarre on canvas
Do you like bizarre? There is no art like art and I am convinced that you have never seen anything like this before. The Botero Museum exhibits the works of the famous Colombian painter Fernando Boter, who is known for his unique ‘boterismo’ style, depicting excessively round figures and shapes. In addition to his works, you will also find works by world masters such as Picasso, Dalí or Monet. Moreover it is Free admission to the museum, so you can at least take a look.
4. Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar
Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar is one of the largest and most important public parks in Bogota, spread over more than 400 hectares in the very heart of the city. This vast park complex is often compared to New York’s Central Park and acts as the ‘green lungs’ of the Colombian capital. In addition, it is located on the western edge of the park Botanical Garden José Celestino Mutis. So if you want to be closer to nature again for a while, you can have a picnic or a walk in the park.
TIP: Are you attracted to nature? Then definitely go explore the Caribbean beaches in conjunction with the rainforest inTayrona National Park.
5. Cerro de Monserrate viewpoint (3152 m)
What we liked the most in Bogotá was a smaller hike to the viewpoint on Mount Monserrate, which is part of the eastern Kordillery Mountains and which you can easily walk to from the city. Since the city of Bogota is at a fairly high altitude, even a small hike gave us quite a bit of work and we were out of breath, but it’s certainly not a thing that no one can handle. At the top you will see hummingbirds, a chapel, a basilica and wonderful views of the whole city. Be sure to go out sometime during the day to get back in the light and not wander around the hills in the dark.
6. Gold Museum in Bogotá
The Gold Museum in Bogotá is one of the most visited tourist spots in Colombia. Since gold is an inherent part of this area and is a significant part of history, it’s quite nice to go here if you have some time. There you will see collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and various metal alloys, including Tumbaga, which were sacred to the original cultures.
What other museums in Bogota can you visit
Like other capitals, Bogota has many museums with different focuses that you can visit.
- Museo Santa Clara with Baroque art,
- Museo Historico de la Policia (Historical Police Museum),
- Museo Nacional (Colombian National Museum),
- Scientific Museum of Maloky.
Tip: You will most likely visit Bogota either way. If you have a few days to spare, we have 13 tips for great places,What to see in and around Bogotá.
7. Villa de Leyva – a picturesque colonial village
About a 3-4 hour drive from Bogota lies Villa de Leyva, one of the most beautifully preserved colonial cities in Colombia. This picturesque city transports you back to the 16th century Thanks to its cobbled streets, white facades of houses and the largest square in Colombia, Plaza Mayor. Don’t miss the Casa Terracota Museum, a unique ceramic building that resembles a clay palace.
We recommend staying here overnight, so that you can really soak up the local calm atmosphere after sunset and discover the surrounding natural beauty, such as El Fosil, where you can see the preserved fossils of prehistoric creatures.
8. Laguna de Guatavita – Legendary El Dorado Lake full of gold
If you want to fall out of the big city into nature for a while, we recommend the nature reserve and Lake Laguna de Guatavita, which is considered the place of origin of the legend of El Dorado. This circular lake, hidden among the green hills, is the place where the native chiefs performed golden ceremonies and threw the treasures into the water as sacrifices to the gods.
The journey by car takes about 1.5 hours from Bogota. The entrance fee includes a guided tour (only in Spanish, but it’s still worth it), which will introduce you to the history and legends associated with this place. We really liked the tour of the reservation and we are glad that we went there, even though we didn’t really understand them, because otherwise we wouldn’t be able to get to such places at all.
What the Legend of El Dorad tells
The legend of El Dorad tells about a golden city that was supposed to be hidden somewhere in the South American mountains. According to the original version from the Muisc SE tribe At the coronation of the new ruler, he performed a ritual on Lake Guatavita: the monarch covered himself with gold dust, rode the raft into the center of the lake and offered gold and gems to the gods. The Spanish conquistadors interpreted this legend as the existence of a rich city full of gold. This triggered a feverish search that lasted for centuries but The mythical city has never been found.
9. Catedral de Sal V Zipaquirá – underground salt cathedral in the mine
An hour’s drive from Bogota is the Catedral de Sal salt cathedral in Zipaquirá, located in the salt mine. The cathedral is carved into the former salt mine and is located 180 meters underground, where it was created as a place for miners’ prayers, who needed protection from danger.
The total area exceeds 8,500 m². It is carved from huge walls and tunnels and consists of several chapels, statues and altars, all made of rock salt. Visitors walk the Way of the Cross, which depicts the 14 stops of Christ’s suffering, when it arrives at the main hall of the cathedral, in which it is great Salt Cross – one of the largest of its kind in the world.
It’s such an unconventional place that you probably wouldn’t think of going, but we really liked it. At the entrance, you’ll receive an audio guide (thankfully, it’s also in English) and you go through the entire mine at your own pace.
TIP: And what is it like Colombian cuisine? 22 tips for traditional food in Colombia
Emerald Tour
The tour of the salt cathedral also includes an exhibition of all kinds of emeralds, which were already mined by indigenous tribes before colonization. Colombia is still one of the largest producers of emeralds in the world, and the three main areas of mining include Muzo, Coscuez and Chivor. We were completely captivated by the Emerald Exhibition, because there are really unique pieces that you just don’t see anywhere.
10. Pacho Village and Drug Cartels Legacy
Are you interested in the history of drug cartels? Then The village of Pacho, located about 80 km from Bogotá, might surprise you. In the 1980s, it was the center of operations for José Gonzalo Rodríguez Gach, one of the most powerful drug lords of the Medellin cartel. You may have already heard of him by nickname ‘El Mexicano’. He had farms and ranches in the smell, which they used to produce and distribute cocaine. The city and its surroundings were under his control and, thanks to his influence, became a key point for the drug trade in the region.
What you can see there today
We went to the village with our Colombian friend. We went through the whole ranch, farms And part of the village and it felt a bit like a ghost town. We talked there with the local people, who told us that, for example, they helped out at the ranch as children, and we also learned interesting things about this place. Everyone knows Pablo Escobar, but he was far from the only drug lord in Colombia. That’s why you can see in the village of Pacho behind the scenes and the environment of the drug trade, but without tourism, which is needed in Medellin.
11. Parque Natural Chicaque
If you love nature and hiking, visit Chicaque Nature Park, which is located about 30 km from Bogota. This natural paradise offers more than 20 km of hiking trails that will take you through dense foggy forests, waterfalls and rocky viewpoints. You will see here not only beautiful nature, but also a lot of animals. Inside the park you will also find an ecological farm.
12. Nimaima and the Center for Adrenaline Activities in Nature
If you are an adventurer in body and soul like us, Nimaima is a place that is guaranteed to excite you! Nimaima is a beautiful place in the middle of nature, in which there are adrenaline activities of daily bread. Forget the hustle and bustle of the big city and go to Wild trails that lead through fresh jungle and deep canyons. The Río Negro is ideal for those who have the courage to tame its currents while rafting, or to plunge from it into the depths during canoeing. There are a lot to choose from here.
Rafting on Río Negro
Our friend prepared a surprise for us in the form of rafting. Since we both go on the water here in the Czech Republic, we really liked the idea. The Río Negro truly lives up to its name, due to the unique bedrock, minerals seep into the water, giving the river its distinct black color. When going down the river was quite wild and No one told us that their goal was not to conquer the rapids, but to take a bath, because it was the fun.
So I flipped right behind the first rapids and couldn’t climb back into the boat. If I had known, I would have arranged additional insurance for extreme sports, because I had soaked my water so much that I was afraid that something would be made of the dirty water. Anyway, it was a really lively trip and I believe that the adrenaline enthusiasts will find something here.
Tip: Did you know that Colombia also has the tallest palm trees in the world, the best coffee and also a lot of hummingbirds? You can see everything in the mountain the village of Salento, which is full of colors and an incredibly amazing atmosphere.
13. La Chorrera – Colombia’s highest waterfall
Are you attracted by nature and waterfalls? Then head to the highest waterfall in all of Colombia La Chorrera. Only 45 minutes by bus and you will find yourself at the beginning of the trail. A roughly three-hour walk through the beautiful landscape of foggy forests, pastures and narrow paths awaits you. At the end, you will be rewarded with a view of the water falling from a height of almost 600 meters. On the way back, you can still jump to the smaller El Chiflon waterfall, where you will pass directly behind the water wall.
A little bit of Bogota’s history
The capital of Colombia, Bogota, has a fascinating history that dates back to the time of pre-Columbian civilizations. The area was originally inhabited by the Muisci tribe, who flourished here thanks to rich gold reserves and trade routes. In 1538, the Spanish Conqueror arrived in the area Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who founded the city of Santa Fé de Bogotá here.
During the colonial era, Bogotá became an important cultural and political center of the Spanish Empire in South America. In 1810, the struggle for independence began here, which led Simón Bolívar to the liberation of Colombia (after which it is also the name of the main square). Since then, Bogotá has grown and transformed into a modern metropolis, despite facing challenges such as political instability and violence associated with drug cartels in the 20th century.
Where did we also like it
We experienced another adventure, where we flew halfway around the world with a one-way ticket Sri Lanka, which completely captivated us. We wandered around for a month beaches in Sri Lanka, discovered local cuisine, nature, traveled to the center of the island tea plantations or Lion’s Mount Sigiriya. So if you don’t know where to go, we recommend all twenty!
FAQ
Na co si dát pozor v Kolumbii?
Při cestování po Kolumbii doporučujeme obezřetnost, zejména pokud se plánujete pohybovat po setmění. Vyhněte se nočním jízdám autem či autobusem. Ve větších městech je kriminalita vyšší, proto se nikde netoulejte po nocích a vždy si zjistěte (třeba v ubytování nebo na internetu), které městské části jsou bezpečné a které ne.
Kdy navštívit Kolumbii?
Aby vaše dovolená v Kolumbii byla co nejlepší a nepřekvapilo vás třeba počasí, jeďte od prosince do února, kdy je zde nejsušší počasí. Také měsíce říjen, listopad, březen a duben jsou skvělou volbou, protože zde není tolik turistů. Uvědomte si ale, že klima se v jednotlivých regionech značně liší, a tak zatímco v Bogotě může být příjemně chladno, v Karibiku vás čekají tropická vedra.
Co je to Bogota?
Hlavní město Kolumbie je Bogota v Jižní Americe. Zajímavostí je, že se nachází v nadmořské výšce 2 640 m. Město založil v roce 1538 španělský dobyvatel Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada. Srdcem historické části města je čtvrť La Candelaria, kde najdete krásné koloniální budovy a barokní architekturu, muzea, malebné barevné domečky, street art a spoustu krásných zákoutí.
Co vidět v Bogotě?
Pokud nevíte, co vidět v Bogotě, zajděte do historické části města La Candelaria, ve které se nachází koloniální budovy, spoustu muzeí, náměstí Plaza de Bolívar a mnoho krásných zákoutí. Oblíbená je také hora Monserrate, na kterou si můžete udělat výlet buď pěšky, nebo lanovkou a užít si výhledy na celou Bogotu.
Co vidět v okolí Bogoty?
V okolí Bogoty je spoustu zajímavých míst, která rozhodně stojí za návštěvu. Nám se nejvíce líbila důlní katedrála v solném dole, výlet za lagunou La Guatavita, Villa de Leyva a oblast Nimaima, kde si můžete užít adrenalinové sporty.
Resources
Bellón, E.R. and González, L.G., 2014. Tourism in Colombia. In tourism as an instrument for development: a theoretical and practical study (Vol. 5, pp. 211-226). Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
Mohan, R., 1980. The People of Bogota: Who They Are, What They Earn, Where They Live. In the People of Bogota: Who They Are, What They Earn, Where They Live (pp. 153-153).
Rueda Esteban, n.r., 2017. Is the tourist management important for the religious heritage in bogota?.
Ochoa, L., 2004. Cosas Viejas de la Villa de la Candelaria (vol. 15). itm.
Gómez Ortiz, S.J. And González Jiménez, J.A., 2019. Turismo en Bogotá.
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