How to Plan Your Basic City Tour in Bogota

If you’re planning a trip to Bogota, Colombia, the Basic City Tour is a must-do activity to get a glimpse of Colombia’s vibrant culture and history. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the tour and how to plan your trip.

Overview

The Basic City Tour is a half-day guided tour that will take you to some of Bogota’s most famous landmarks and attractions. You’ll be transported through the city by private transportation to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

What’s Included

• Private transportation
• Lunch
• Admission tickets to Mount Monserrate, Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), La Candelaria, and Bolivar Square

Meeting and Pickup

For your convenience, the tour provides pickup from any hotel or location within Bogota’s urban perimeter. You’ll be asked to select a pickup point during your booking process.

Pickup Points

• Hotel pick-up
• Airport pick-up
• Address pick-up

Start Time

The tour begins at 9:00 am and ends at 2:00 pm from Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday, and on Saturday it will begin at 9:00 am and end at 12:00 pm. You should confirm your tour time with the local provider in advance to avoid any confusion.

Opening Hours

2/15/2020 – 3/27/2024 Monday – Wednesday : 09:00 AM – 02:00 PM
Thursday : 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Friday – Sunday : 09:00 AM – 02:00 PM
Saturday : 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Pickup Details

Recogemos en cualquier hotel o locación dentro del perímetro urbano.

What To Expect

Mount Monserrate

You’ll begin your tour by visiting Mount Monserrate, one of Bogota’s most popular destinations. The mountain’s summit offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is home to a church that holds special religious significance among locals.

Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)

Your next stop will be the Gold Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, ceramics, and textiles. Your tour guide will share interesting historical facts and information with you as you explore the exhibits.

La Candelaria

Your tour will then proceed to La Candelaria, Bogota’s historic district rich in cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Here, you’ll visit the Botero Museum and admire the colonial-era buildings lining the streets.

Bolivar Square

The tour concludes at Bolivar Square, where you’ll observe the impressive presidential palace and learn about Simon Bolivar, a key figure in Colombia’s independence movement.

Additional Info

Here are a few more details to keep in mind:

Confirmation

You’ll receive confirmation of your booking at the time of making the reservation.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Surfaces are also wheelchair accessible.

Not Recommended For

Individuals with back problems should avoid this tour.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Book Your Tour Now

Now that you know everything there is to know about Bogota’s Basic City Tour, you can book your spot and embark on an unforgettable adventure exploring the city’s impressive landmarks and cultural sites. Book the tour here and start planning your trip to Bogota today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bogota

Bogota is the capital city and largest city of Colombia, located in the central region of the country. It is a vibrant and bustling city with deep history, stunning architecture, and great food. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Bogota to help you navigate your trip to this beautiful city.

1. Why should I visit Bogota?

Bogota has a lot to offer visitors, from its rich history and culture to its natural beauty and gastronomy. The city offers plenty of museums, galleries, and historic landmarks to explore, such as the Gold Museum, the Botero Museum, and the Bolivar Square. Furthermore, Bogota is surrounded by the Andes mountains, which offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and paragliding. Additionally, Bogota has a thriving food scene with traditional Colombian cuisine as well as international options.

2. Is it safe to visit Bogota?

Bogota is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended to avoid walking alone late at night, especially in areas that are not well lit or are known for being dangerous. It is also a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying valuables such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow common sense safety guidelines.

3. When is the best time to visit Bogota?

The best time to visit Bogota is during the dry season, which runs from December to March and from July to August. During these months, the weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The rest of the year tends to be rainy, so it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella or rain jacket if you plan to visit during this time.

4. What are the top landmarks to visit in Bogota?

Bogota has no shortage of landmarks to visit. Some of the top must-visit sites include:

• The Gold Museum – a museum dedicated to pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
• The Botero Museum – a museum housing works by renowned artist Fernando Botero.
• The Bolivar Square – a historic square that is home to many of Bogota’s most iconic buildings.
• The Monserrate – a mountain that offers stunning views of the city below.
• The Candelaria neighborhood – a historic area with colorful architecture and great cafes and restaurants.

5. What is the transportation system like in Bogota?

Bogota has a comprehensive transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and a metro system called the TransMilenio. The TransMilenio is a bus rapid transit system that runs on dedicated lanes, making it a quick and efficient way to get around the city. Taxis are also readily available, but it is best to use licensed taxis and agree on a fare before getting in.

6. What is the currency in Bogota, and where can I exchange money?

The currency in Bogota is the Colombian peso (COP). You can exchange money at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels. It is recommended to exchange money at official exchange bureaus or banks to get a fair exchange rate.

7. What are some traditional Colombian foods I should try?

Colombian cuisine is rich and diverse, with many dishes to try. Some traditional Colombian foods include:

• Ajiaco – a hearty soup made with chicken, corn, potatoes, and herbs.
• Bandeja paisa – a dish with rice, beans, fried plantains, avocado, and a choice of meat.
• Arepa – a flatbread made from cornmeal that is usually filled with cheese, meat, or eggs.
• Empanadas – fried or baked turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

8. What is the nightlife like in Bogota?

Bogota has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of options for all tastes. The city has many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. Chapinero and Zona Rosa are popular areas for nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from.

9. What are some popular day trips from Bogota?

Bogota is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it a great place for day trips. Some popular options include:

• Villa de Leyva – a charming colonial town located three hours from Bogota.
• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira – an underground cathedral located just outside of Bogota.
• La Chorrera waterfall – a stunning waterfall located in the Andes mountains.
• The coffee region – a region known for its coffee plantations and beautiful scenery.

10. What should I pack for a trip to Bogota?

When packing for Bogota, it is important to consider the weather and the activities you have planned. A rain jacket and umbrella are recommended if you are visiting during the rainy season. Comfortable shoes are also a must, especially if you plan to do any hiking or sightseeing. It is also a good idea to pack some light layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Finally, do not forget to bring your travel documents, including your passport and any necessary visas.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Bogota

Bogota, the capital city of Colombia, is a destination for cultural and historical treasures, and remarkable adventure spots. This city has gained attention for its dynamic culture, music, art, and food scene. If you are planning to visit Bogota, you might be overwhelmed with the number of activities the city has to offer. However, we have curated a list of the must-do activities if you only have limited time in Bogota.

1. Take a walking tour of La Candelaria

Your first stop should be in La Candelaria, the historic center of Bogota. Walking through La Candelaria is like taking a journey through time. The walkable streets of La Candelaria are adorned with beautiful colonial architecture, mural paintings, and art installations that reflect the country’s history and culture. The neighborhood is also home to several museums, galleries, cultural centers and cafes, which make it a perfect spot to enjoy Colombian coffee and traditional food.

2. Visit the Gold Museum

Colombia has a rich history of gold mining and jewelry making, and the Gold Museum of Bogota is the right place to learn about it. The museum is home to over 50,000 gold pieces, and other metal and stone artifacts that reflect the pre-Colombian era. The exhibits in the museum are presented in both Spanish and English, which makes it easy for the visitors to understand the history.

3. Explore Montserrat Hill

The Montserrat Hill is a towering peak located in the center of Bogota. It is accessible via a funicular or cable car, and offers a sweeping view of the city. At the summit, you’ll find the famous church of Our Lady of Montserrat. The church is an impressive structure that reflects colonial architecture, and it is a significant religious attraction for Catholics.

4. Try Colombian street food

Bogota’s food scene is flavorful and diverse. The city has numerous street food stands where you can find authentic Colombian snacks, such as arepas, buñuelos, and chorizo. The street food vendors are locally known as “comida corriente,” which means ordinary food. However, there is nothing ordinary about the food that they serve. It’s delicious, affordable, and a must-try when you are in Bogota.

5. Take a bike tour to Usaquen

Usaquen is a trendy neighborhood located in the north of Bogota. It is known for its cobbled streets, delicious food scene, art galleries, and local markets. One of the best ways to explore Usaquen is by renting a bike and taking a bike tour. The tour will take you through the local markets, provide background information about the neighborhood, and let you explore the street art and graffiti.

6. Go on a coffee tour

Colombia is known for its coffee, and it’s a top destination for coffee lovers. There are several coffee farms located just outside of the city that offer coffee tours. The coffee tours take you on a journey of the coffee-making process, from bean selection to roasting and brewing. By the end of the tour, you will be an expert on coffee and will know what makes Colombian coffee unique.

7. Visit Monserrate Church

The Monserrate Church is a famous destination located on a mountain in Bogota. The church is known for its spectacular views of the city, which can be accessed via cable car or funicular. The church is also an essential religious site in the city, and many Catholic pilgrims visit it to pray.

8. Explore the Botero Museum

The Botero Museum is the right destination for art lovers. Fernando Botero, a famous Colombian artist, donated his artwork to the museum where it has since become a permanent exhibit. The museum showcases the artist’s work, including sculptures, paintings, and sketches, from different periods of his life.

9. Take a graffiti and street art tour

Bogota is known for its street art and graffiti. The city has become a canvas for local and international artists, who use the walls of buildings to express themselves. Taking a street art tour is a great way to experience the culture and art scene of the city. The tours take you to different neighborhoods and provide background information about the artists and their work.

10. Dance salsa

Colombia is the birthplace of salsa, and it’s a must-try experience for anyone who visits the country. There are several salsa clubs and bars located around Bogota, where you can dance the night away. Salsa is a significant part of Colombian culture, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Book Your Tour Now

Bogota is a unique city, with a rich cultural and historical heritage, a vibrant arts scene, and amazing food. From exploring La Candelaria to dancing salsa, there are many activities to do, and destinations to visit. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an artist, or an adventure seeker, Bogota has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Bogota.