Bogotá, the high-altitude capital of Colombia, is a city of contrasts—modern skyscrapers sit beside colonial churches, street art tells powerful stories, and just beyond the city limits, breathtaking waterfalls cascade down lush mountains. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the culture, or the food (or all three), Bogotá has something for every traveler. Now, let’s get into the best things to do in Bogotá!
Hike to Colombia’s Highest Waterfall: La Chorrera
Just an hour outside Bogotá is La Chorrera, the highest waterfall in Colombia at 590 meters (1,936 feet). It’s part of a stunning ecological park where you can hike through cloud forests, cross wooden bridges, and spot unique wildlife along the way. The hike is moderate, taking about 3-4 hours round trip, depending on your pace and the weather.
Getting there: The easiest way is to take an Uber or DiDi to Choachí and then a short taxi ride to the park entrance. Guided tours are also available which include round trip transportation to the falls and lunch!
Explore La Candelaria: Bogotá’s Historic Heart
No trip to Bogotá is complete without wandering through La Candelaria, the city’s historic center filled with colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and some of the country’s most important landmarks.
Start at Plaza de Bolívar, the city’s main square, surrounded by impressive buildings like the Primary Cathedral of Bogotá and the Capitolio Nacional. Then, stroll down Calle del Embudo, a narrow alleyway famous for its vibrant murals, quirky cafés, and chicha bars (more on that later!).
One of the best parts of La Candelaria? It’s incredibly walkable, but be mindful of the uneven streets—comfortable shoes are a must.
Soak in the Best View: Monserrate by Funicular
For the most breathtaking view of Bogotá, take the funicular or cable car up to Monserrate, the mountain that towers over the city at 10,341 feet (3,152 meters). From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the entire city, stretching from the historic streets of La Candelaria to the modern high-rises of Chapinero.
At the summit, you’ll find Santuario de Monserrate, a white-washed church that has been a pilgrimage site since the 17th century, restaurants and cafés which serve delicious Colombian cuisine with an unbeatable view and small souvenir shops, where you can pick up handmade crafts, coffee, or traditional sweets like obleas (thin wafers filled with arequipe, a Colombian caramel.
Get there by taking the funicular and cable car for $5-$7 from Estación Monserrate, just east of La Candelaria, or hike up the1.5-hour trek (only recommended during the day for safety reasons).
Bogotá’s Art Scene: Street Murals & Art Galleries
Bogotá is one of the best cities in the world for street art, and neighborhoods like La Candelaria and Teusaquillo are covered in stunning murals that tell stories of Colombian history, politics, and culture.
For a deeper dive, take a Bogotá Graffiti Tour, where local artists explain the meaning behind the city’s most famous pieces.
If you prefer indoor art, head to the Museo Botero, home to works by Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most famous artist known for his exaggerated, voluminous figures. The museum is free and also houses pieces by Picasso, Dalí, and Monet.
Taste Bogotá: Local Food & Drinks You Can’t Miss
Colombian cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for chilly Bogotá nights. Here are a few must-try dishes and drinks:
Food to Try
• Ajiaco – Bogotá’s signature dish! A rich chicken soup with three types of potatoes, corn, capers, and cream, usually served with rice and avocado.
• Arepas – Thick corn cakes that come in dozens of varieties—try an arepa de choclo (sweet corn arepa with cheese) or an arepa rellena (stuffed arepa).
• Empanadas – Crispy cornmeal pockets filled with beef, chicken, or cheese, usually eaten with spicy ají sauce.
• Chocolate Santafereño – Hot chocolate served with cheese for dipping. It might sound strange, but it’s a Bogotá tradition!
Drinks to Try
• Chicha – A fermented corn-based drink with ancient Indigenous roots. You’ll find it in La Candelaria, especially on Calle del Embudo, where local vendors sell it in clay cups.
• Canelazo – A warm drink made with aguardiente (Colombia’s anise-flavored liquor), cinnamon, and sugar—perfect for chilly Bogotá nights.
• Aguardiente – The most famous Colombian liquor, made from sugarcane with a strong anise flavor. It’s usually taken as a shot, but sip it slowly if you’re new to it!
• Colombian Coffee – Bogotá’s cafés serve some of the best coffee in the world. Skip the big chains and try Café San Alberto or Varietale for a real Colombian coffee experience.
Know Before You Go
• Currency: The Colombian Peso (COP). As of 2025, $1 USD is roughly 3,900 COP, but always check the exchange rate before your trip.
• Language: Spanish is the official language, and while you’ll find some English speakers in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish phrases will go a long way.
• Electricity: Outlets are Type A and B (same as the U.S.), so no need for a power adapter if you’re coming from North America.
• Altitude: Bogotá sits at 8,660 feet (2,640 meters) above sea level. Give yourself time to acclimate, stay hydrated, and take it easy on your first day.
• Safety: Like any big city, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Stick to well-traveled neighborhoods at night, and use apps like DiDi or Uber instead of hailing taxis.
Bogotá is a city that surprises you. One moment, you’re hiking to a waterfall in the mountains; the next, you’re sipping chicha in a historic alleyway. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the art, or the flavors of Colombian cuisine, this city will leave a lasting impression.
Happy adventuring!
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