Our second stop on the spring break backpacking adventure through Latin America was Bogotá, the vibrant capital of Colombia. Perched at an impressive altitude of 2,640 meters, this city is a fascinating blend of history and culture. Here, the Spaniards once pierced the indigenous starry skies with the towering spires of their cathedrals, yet remnants of the Muisca civilization’s golden legacy still shimmer through the cracks in ancient stone slabs.
It was here that Bolívar thundered through on horseback, rallying cries for independence echoing through the streets. Today, devout pilgrims ascend Monserrate Hill with bare feet, clutching crosses as they make their way to the gleaming white church perched atop the mountain.
The rain in Bogotá always seems to fall at twilight, like tears shed over the scars of a half-century-long civil war. Yet, in the square below, people dance salsa with fierce energy, transforming their pain into rhythmic drumbeats that resonate through the night.
P1-P6 Monserrate Hill
P7-P9 Bolívar Square
P10-P12 Gold Museum
P13 A taste of Colombia’s culinary tradition awaits with Ajiaco, a rich and flavorful specialty stew.
PS. Don’t forget—when leaving the country, you can claim a tax refund. Each of us walked away with a refund of around 30 to 40 dollars, a small but welcome souvenir of our journey.
