Bogota, Columbia-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning:
    • Arrive at El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
    • Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel ( approx. $10-15 USD)
    • Check-in at Hotel Casa Real or similar (approx. $80-100 USD per night)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Plaza de Bolivar (free admission), a historic square surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and monuments
    • Take a stroll through the nearby Cerro del Salitre neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and street art
    • Grab lunch at La Macarena, a trendy restaurant serving Colombian cuisine (approx. $15-20 USD per meal)
  • Evening:
    • Visit the Gold Museum ( Museo de Oro), home to one of the largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts in the world ($4 USD admission)
    • Explore the lively nightlife in the La Zona Rosa neighborhood, known for its bars and clubs

Day 2: Culture and History

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Monserrate, a iconic hill offering stunning views of the city (free admission, but $10-15 USD to ride the funicular)
    • Explore the nearby Cerro de Montserrate neighborhood, known for its historic churches and architecture
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Bogota Museum of Modern Art (MAMBO), showcasing Colombian modern art (free admission)
    • Take a tour of the La Candelaria, one of Bogota’s oldest neighborhoods (approx. $20-30 USD per person)
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at Andrés Carne Asada, a popular restaurant serving grilled meats and Colombian cuisine (approx. $25-35 USD per meal)

Day 3: Outdoor Activities

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Parque Simón Bolívar, a large urban park offering plenty of green space and walking trails
    • Rent a bike or take a guided tour of the city’s streets (approx. $10-20 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Take a hike in the nearby Cerro de Guadalupe nature reserve, offering stunning views of the city (free admission)
    • Visit the Bogota Botanical Garden, featuring over 1,000 plant species from around the world ($4 USD admission)

Day 4: Shopping and Markets

  • Morning:
    • Visit the La Zona Rosa Market, a bustling marketplace offering local handicrafts and souvenirs
    • Take a tour of the city’s street art scene (approx. $20-30 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the upscale shopping district of Zona G (free admission), featuring high-end boutiques and restaurants
    • Visit the Salitre Mágico flea market, offering everything from antiques to vintage clothing

Day 5: Food and Drink

  • Morning:
    • Take a food tour of the city (approx. $30-50 USD per person), sampling local specialties like arepas, empanadas, and Colombian coffee
    • Visit the Graffiti Café, a trendy spot serving specialty coffee and breakfast dishes (approx. $10-15 USD per meal)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Bogota Brewery, offering tours of their brewing facilities and tastings of local craft beers
    • Enjoy dinner at El Chorro, a popular restaurant serving Colombian cuisine with a twist (approx. $25-35 USD per meal)

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning:
    • Check-out of your hotel and depart for the airport (approx. $10-15 USD by taxi or Uber)
    • Spend some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market

Things to Know:

  • Safety: As with any major city, take normal precautions to ensure your safety, especially at night.
  • Weather: Bogota’s climate can be quite cool and rainy, so pack accordingly (average temperature 12-18°C / 54-64°F).
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, Spanish is the primary language spoken in Colombia. Consider learning basic phrases to enhance your experience.

Transportation:

  • Getting Around: Taxis, Uber, and public transportation are readily available and relatively affordable.
  • Airport Transfer: Use a reputable taxi or shuttle service for airport transfers (approx. $10-15 USD).

Tips and Tricks:

  • Currency Exchange: Colombia’s currency is the Colombian Peso (COP), but USD is widely accepted.
  • Local Currency: Use local currency for smaller purchases, as credit card acceptance may vary.

Other Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Altitude: Bogota is a high-altitude city (over 2,500 meters above sea level). Be prepared for potential altitude sickness symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
  • Power Outages: As with any major city, power outages can occur. Stay informed through local news sources.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Casa Real: A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of La Macarena (approx. $80-100 USD per night).
  • Other Options: Consider staying at budget-friendly options like Hostel El Dorado or Hotel Patio del Mundo for a more authentic experience.

Note that prices may vary depending on the season, and availability might change. Be sure to research and book accommodations in advance to ensure a smooth trip!