Today marks the 11th day of my journey in Colombia. Last week, I conquered the volcano in Antigua, then raced to the airport and hopped on a flight to Colombia all in the same day. Despite my increasingly weary limbs, I spent five days and four nights in Bogotá before I even realized how quickly time had flown by.
Compared to vibrant cities like Medellín and Cartagena—each boasting its own distinct “personality”—my first impression of Bogotá was simply that it’s Colombia’s capital, a label that seemed rather mundane at first glance. However, for a city with an average annual temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius, it takes a bit more time to truly uncover its hidden charm and make a fair judgment.
[WeedR] Accommodation
I settled into Chapinero, a neighborhood known for its tranquility and safety. This area is also home to trendy cafes, upscale restaurants, and the bustling Andino shopping district, making it the perfect base for exploration.
[WeedR] Where to Go?
🌟 Classic Cultural Attractions
1️⃣ Plaza Bolívar (Figures 1-3)
This iconic square offers a delightful mix of street life: savory street food that never disappoints, colorful mangosteen carts, flocks of pigeons fluttering about, tourists scrambling to snap photos amidst the chaos, and even friendly homeless individuals who might wink at your camera lens. It’s a lively scene you won’t soon forget.
2️⃣ Botero Museum
Art enthusiasts will love this gem—it’s free! Here, you can marvel at Fernando Botero’s signature plump Mona Lisa and other masterpieces, as well as his impressive collection of donated works.
3️⃣ Money Museum & Arms Museum
Just a short stroll from the Botero Museum, these two museums are ideal for those with extra time or looking to escape the sun. Visit them all in one go for a deeper dive into Bogotá’s history.
4️⃣ Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen
This stunning Spanish-style Catholic church near the square is not only beautiful but also highly photogenic. Its architecture transports you straight to Europe without leaving Colombia.
5️⃣ Gold Museum
Prepare to be dazzled—after visiting this museum, you’ll have seen more real gold than 99% of internet users ever will.
*Note:* All of these attractions are within walking distance, though the Gold Museum is slightly farther north. The city center is well-guarded by police and K-9 units, ensuring a safe experience for visitors.
🌟 Panoramic City Views
Monserrate Mountain
No trip to Bogotá is complete without visiting Monserrate, the mountain peak symbolizing the city. From its summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis below (Figures 5 & 6). You can reach the top via cable car, funicular, or by hiking up the mountain. Round-trip cable car tickets cost 29,500 pesos, while one-way trips are priced at 17,500 pesos. To get there, take a taxi or bus to Taquilla Teleférico Monserrate.
🌟 Local Craft Market
Usaquén Flea Market (Figures 17-18)
Nestled along Carrera 6a near Usaquén Park, this charming market features an array of local crafts and vendors. Weekdays offer a relaxed atmosphere with fixed stalls, while weekends bring an energetic buzz as the market comes alive with additional sellers.
🌟 Food
La Perseverancia Distrital Market
Featured on Netflix, this bustling local food market feels like a Colombian twist on a classic food court. It’s a must-visit for anyone eager to savor authentic flavors.
El Chato & Harry Sasson
I indulged in meals at two of Latin America’s top 50 restaurants, both conveniently located in Chapinero. Their culinary creations were nothing short of extraordinary.
*(More details on my gastronomic adventures coming in the next post!)*
