How to Plan Your Bogota City Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, then you shouldn’t miss visiting its capital, Bogota. With its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning architecture, there are a lot of places to visit in this vibrant city. And to make sure that you won’t miss out on the best spots, you should go on a Bogota city tour. Booking a tour is the best way to explore the city, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or if you’re not familiar with the area. Here’s how you can plan your Bogota city tour:

Step 1: Choose a Tour

The first thing you need to do is to choose a Bogota city tour that suits your preferences. There are a lot of city tours available, but the best one is the Bogota City Tour offered by Viator. This tour offers much more than just an in-depth overview of the city. You’ll get a chance to visit top landmarks with your guide, learn about Colombia’s economy through a coffee tasting, and even pick up tickets to museums. There are two options to choose from: a 7-hour tour that includes the Monserrate Gold Museum and Botero Museum, or a 5-hour tour that includes only Monserrate or museums. The tour also includes food tastings and transport, so you won’t have to worry about anything.

Step 2: Book the Tour

Once you’ve chosen the tour that you want, it’s time to book it. The easiest way to book the Bogota City Tour is through Viator’s website. All you have to do is click the book now button, and you’ll be directed to the booking page where you can select the date, time, and the number of people in your group. The tour costs around $60-70, depending on the option you choose. And don’t forget to use the following link to book the tour: book the tour here.

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary

Before heading out on your tour, make sure to plan your itinerary. Check the pick-up points and schedule, so you won’t be late. The Bogota City Tour offered by Viator includes a hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you can relax and not worry about the transportation. During the tour, you’ll be able to see top sights like Bolivar Square and the Botero Museum. Your guide will also share tons of information about Bogota as you walk, making your experience more insightful and informative. The tour also includes a Chicha tasting, a local drink that you shouldn’t miss. And if you choose the 7-hour tour option, you’ll also get a chance to visit the Monserrate Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, which houses Fernando Botero’s famous artworks.

Step 4: What’s Included

The Bogota City Tour offered by Viator includes the following:

• Gran Colombia Tours Guide
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Chicha (a local drink) tasting
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Monserrate tickets (if option is selected)
• Transportation

Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. And don’t forget to bring your camera, as you’ll have a lot of chances to take amazing photos of the city.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tour!

Lastly, enjoy your Bogota City Tour! This is your chance to explore Bogota’s rich culture and heritage, so make the most out of it. Take time to appreciate the city’s beauty and learn as much as you can about its history. To sum it up, booking a tour is the best way to explore the city, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. And with the Bogota City Tour offered by Viator, you’ll get to see the best of Bogota without worrying about anything. Book the tour now and have the time of your life!

Frequently Asked Questions about Bogota

Bogota, the capital city of Colombia, is a bustling metropolis surrounded by mountains and filled with cultural attractions, world-renowned cuisine, and remarkable landscapes. Whether you’re planning your first visit, or you’re already in Bogota and have some questions about the city, we’re here to help. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Bogota that will help you plan your trip smoothly.

1. What is the best time to visit Bogota?

Bogota has a mild climate and is a year-round destination. However, May through September is the peak season for tourists because the rainy season settles in the remaining months. If you hate crowds, it’s best to visit between December and February because there are fewer tourists, and the weather is relatively dry.

2. Is Bogota safe for travelers?

Bogota has come a long way in recent years and is now considered safe for travelers. The government has invested heavily in security measures, and there is a strong police presence throughout the city. However, like any big city in the world, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur. It’s best to avoid certain areas of the city, such as La Candelaria at night, and to remain vigilant and use common sense.

3. Can I drink tap water in Bogota?

In general, it’s not recommended to drink tap water in Bogota or Colombia. It’s best to stick to bottled water, which is readily available in stores, restaurants, and hotels. Also, avoid having ice cubes in drinks as they may be made from tap water.

4. What are some must-try Colombian dishes in Bogota?

Colombian cuisine is diverse and influenced by Europe, Africa, and indigenous cultures. Some popular dishes to try while in Bogota include:

• Ajiaco soup: a hearty potato soup with chicken, corn, and capers
• Bandeja Paisa: a massive platter of grilled steak, chorizo, fried plantains, avocado, and beans
• Empanadas: fried dough filled with beef, chicken, or cheese
• Arroz con Pollo: chicken and rice cooked with saffron and vegetables
• Arepa: a flatbread made from cornmeal and stuffed with cheese, meat, or eggs.

5. How do I get around Bogota?

Bogota has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and a metro system (Transmilenio). However, the best way to get around Bogota is by taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Beat. It’s best to download the apps beforehand and have them set up to avoid any communication problems.

6. What are the must-visit attractions in Bogota?

Bogota has plenty of landmarks and cultural attractions that you shouldn’t miss while visiting. Some of them are:

• Monserrate: A mountain peak towering over Bogota with a church, market and stunning views over the city
• The Gold Museum: A museum exhibiting Pre-Columbian gold relics and artifacts
• Botero Museum: An art museum showcasing Fernando Botero’s work, including sculptures and paintings
• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira: A spectacular underground church constructed from salt rocks
• La Candelaria: Bogota’s historic neighborhood with colorful colonial buildings, street art, and excellent restaurants.

7. What is the currency used in Bogota?

The currency used in Bogota is the Colombian peso (COP). Many restaurants, hotels, and stores accept credit cards, but it’s always best to carry some cash for street vendors and smaller establishments. ATMs are widely available across the city and can be found in most shopping malls.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Bogota?

If you’re a citizen from a country like the US, EU, or Australia, you don’t require a visa to enter Bogota or Colombia for stays under 90 days. However, it’s best to check the Colombian embassy/consulate’s website from your residing country to ensure visa requirements before planning your trip.

9. What is the nightlife like in Bogota?

Bogota has a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. There are options for all tastes, whether you’re into electronic music or live salsa bands. La Zona Rosa, Usaquen, and Chapinero are three famous districts known for their nightlife scene.

10. Is it customary to tip in Bogota?

Tipping in restaurants and cafes is customary in Bogota, and tipping 10% of the total bill is standard. Tipping hotel staff or taxi drivers is not essential, but it’s always appreciated.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Bogota

Bogota, the capital city of Colombia, is a vibrant and diverse city that attracts travelers from all over the world. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and colorful streets, Bogota is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of South America. If you are planning a trip to Bogota and wondering how to spend your time as a tourist, then this is the perfect guide for you. In this post, we will explore the top things to do, see, and eat in Bogota, along with some practical travel tips to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Explore the Historic Center of La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the heart of Bogota’s historic center, and it’s where you will find many of the city’s most important landmarks and attractions. Start your sightseeing tour at Plaza Bolivar, the main square of Bogota, and from there, explore the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings. La Candelaria is home to many museums, including the famous Gold Museum, the Botero Museum, and the National Museum of Colombia. Other must-visit attractions in La Candelaria include the Chorro de Quevedo, a historic square where Bogota was founded, and the Cerro de Monserrate, a hill overlooking the city with a beautiful church that is accessible by cable car or funicular.

2. Experience the Street Art Scene of Bogota

Bogota is known worldwide for its thriving street art scene, with numerous murals, graffiti, and installations found all over the city. One of the best places to experience this vibrant and colorful art form is in the neighborhoods of La Candelaria, Chapinero, and Teusaquillo. You can either explore the streets on your own or take a guided tour to learn more about the artists and their work. Some popular street art tours in Bogota include Bogota Graffiti Tour and Beyond Colombia Street Art Tour.

3. Try the Local Cuisine

Colombian cuisine is a delightful mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences, and there are many delicious dishes that you should try during your visit to Bogota. One of the most iconic dishes is the bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of beans, rice, meat, avocado, plantain, and arepa (a corn cake). Other popular foods include ajiaco, a chicken and potato soup, and empanadas, which are stuffed pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. For a sweet treat, try the arequipe (caramel sauce) with cheese or buñuelos (fried dough balls).

4. Take a Day Trip to Zipaquira

Zipaquira is a small town located about an hour’s drive from Bogota, and it’s famous for its Salt Cathedral, a unique underground church carved out of a salt mine. The cathedral is a true engineering marvel, with beautiful sculptures and a light show that illuminates the salt walls. You can also explore the town of Zipaquira, which has a charming colonial center and many restaurants serving traditional Colombian food.

5. Experience the Nightlife of Bogota

Bogota has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with something for everyone, from salsa dancing to live music to rooftop bars with stunning views. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the streets of Zona Rosa and Parque 93 in the north of the city, as well as the areas around La Candelaria and Chapinero. Some top nightclubs in Bogota include Andres Carne de Res, Armando Records, and Theatron.

Practical Travel Tips

Here are some practical travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to Bogota:

• Be aware of the altitude: Bogota is located at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first few days to avoid altitude sickness.
• Use transportation options: Bogota has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, metro, and TransMilenio, a bus rapid transit system. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify are also available.
• Stay safe: Like any big city, Bogota has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, by taking basic precautions like not walking alone at night, avoiding flashing valuables, and sticking to well-lit and busy areas, you can minimize your risks.
• Learn some Spanish: While many people in Bogota speak English, it’s always helpful to know some basic Spanish to communicate with locals and navigate the city.
• Stay in a good location: When choosing accommodation in Bogota, it’s important to stay in a safe and central area, such as La Candelaria or Chapinero, to have easy access to the city’s top attractions and amenities.

Book Your Tour Now

Bogota is a fascinating and dynamic city with so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this incredible destination. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you can make the most of your time in Bogota and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.