Summary of Attractions in Bogota
Bogota has much to offer any visitor, from the center of the historic district to ample parks, amusement centers, shopping, churches, museums, walks, and of course, restaurants, and nightlife.
Cerro de Monserrate
Visiting Bogota without heading to the top of Cerro de Monserrate is a missed opportunity. At 10,000 ft above sea level, this site offers breathtaking views of the city. At the summit, you can find a 17th-century church, various food options, and souvenir shops.
You have the option to take the cable car or funicular railway to avoid the steep hike, as there have been reports of tourists being targeted for theft while walking up.
Amusement Parks
For families seeking adventure, Mundo Aventura offers thrilling mechanical games including a sky-coaster, roller coaster, and a variety of rides suitable for children as well. Salitre Mágico caters to all ages with exciting rides and entertainment options, while Parque Jaime Duque features a giant map, exhibitions, and even a zoo. Notably, the park has become renowned for hosting raves featuring well-known DJs.
Soccer
Bogotá is home to popular soccer clubs such as Millonarios and Independiente Santa Fe. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance when these teams compete against each other. If you don’t speak Spanish, consider asking your hotel concierge for assistance in obtaining tickets.
For casual players, parks throughout the city host pick-up games. You can connect with local soccer enthusiasts through Couchsurfing community boards or simply ask locals if you can join a game.
Carnaval de Bogota
The Carnaval de Bogota, held on August 5-6, celebrates the city’s founding and honors Colombia’s rich diversity. Visitors can enjoy colorful comparsas (folkloric parades), dances, and music representing various regions and cultures of the country. The festivities include Verbenas, street celebrations featuring dance, music, games, and a chance to savor gastronomic delights from Colombia’s regions.
Expoartesanias
Expoartesanías is the best destination for discovering traditional and modern handcrafts from Indian and Afro-Colombian origins. Here, you’ll find beautifully crafted products made from various natural materials such as fibers, fabrics, wood, silver, gold, ceramic, and stone. Since its inception in 1991, Expoartesanías has been a leader in setting trends for handcrafted products.
Bullfights: Plaza de Toros la Santamaria
Bullfighting is a traditional Colombian spectacle that captivates many. The bullfighting season typically runs from January through February, although smaller events can be seen throughout the year.
GoTravelDaily encourages readers to consider their views on the ethics surrounding bullfighting as a form of entertainment.
Shopping
Colombia is renowned for its exquisite emeralds, along with a variety of shops offering jewels, antiques, clothing, leather goods, and more. In Bogota, shopping options abound, catering to all budgets. Zona T serves as a hotspot for high-end fashion, while El Retiro is an affordable shopping mall for necessities. The markets are ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for memorable souvenirs, especially coffee.
Palacio de San Francisco
The Palace of San Francisco exemplifies the Republican architecture that was fashionable in the early 20th century in Colombia. Declared a national monument in 1984, it now serves as a school, Nuestra Senora del Rosario, one of the largest in the city.
Enjoy the City Parks
Bogotá boasts one of the world’s largest urban parks, the Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park. This area is a hub of recreational activities, hosting the Botanical Gardens of Bogotá, Coldeportes headquarters, and the recently completed Virgilio Barco Library.
Additionally, “El Tunal” park is renowned for hosting the annual Rock al Parque festival, a free event that showcases both new and established Latin rock bands, providing a vibrant atmosphere.
Museo de Oro
The Gold Museum in Bogotá houses extraordinary collections of gold artifacts, showcasing Colombia’s rich history and heritage. Additionally, it is worthwhile to explore various museums and art galleries, such as the Museo Arqueológico, Museo de Artes y Tradiciones Populares, and Museo de Arte Moderno, all highlighting Colombia’s patrimony and artistic evolution.
