Bogotà
Bogotà, I still have not made my mind up about you. Yes it rains a lot and it can get cold at night, but you are full of resources too, and as being the capital of Colombia you retain a certain historical charm. I was lucky to have a friend there who had two bikes, so we road along on our bikes all around the city and it was great. Tiring, but great. All in all, I recommend visiting Bogotà for a couple of days.
How to get around in Bogotà:
Bogotà is huge. You need to plan your days in a logical way in order not to waist too much time in traffic. I would recommend you using the city bus called TransMilenio. It is fast, on time, and you can literally go anywhere. You can also use a taxi but as I said, traffic can get pretty dense. If you have the energy you can always rent a bicycle but beware of the altitude which may make it more difficult!
Bogotà is Colombia’s capital and it is HUGE. There is no point in trying to see every part of the city simply because some parts are just not worth it and the trafic is crazy. Here are the places you must go to if you stop by in Bogotà:
Top places to visit in bogotà:
La Candelaria: Although being Bogotà ‘s smallest locality, La Candelaria is a neighborhood that gives the highest volume of, and brings together history, culture, art, architecture and traditions. The best way to enjoy this neighborhood is by walking through its paved streets. You will find some of the first monuments erected in the capital, such as on the plaza Bolivar. You will also find some of Bogota’s most famous museums such as el Museo del Oro and Museo Botero
Chapinero: Chapinero is Bogotá’s second district and is located in the Northern part of the city. It is a rural area yet full of beautiful streets and architecture. Some streets remind you of UK towns while others have very big and modern buildings. You will find all kinds of restaurants, from cute to very high end ones. Walking around at night is pretty safe as long as there are people around you.
Usaquén: Usaquén is also located in the North and is one of Bogotà’s most vibrant neigborhood. From street art to local flee markets, gastronomical restaurants and fancy coffee spots, Usaquén has a lot to offer. I recommend you get a sweet treat at Crepes and Waffles
Cerro de Montserrat: Cerro de Montserrat is a high mountain that dominates the Northen part of Bogotà. There are several ways to arrive at the top; you can either walk on a well designed path as the believers do for approximately an hour and a half or take a funicular / teleferico (same to go back down). Once you get at the top you’ll enjoy a magnificent view overlooking the city and you will also be able to visit the Sanctuary of Montserrat. If you get hungry, you will find many restaurants and snacks too.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 6:30am to 12am (midnight) last tickets at 10pm. Sunday: 5:30am to 6pm (last tickets at 5:30pm)
Entrance fee: free if you walk - $13.000 pesos one way - $22.000 pesos return
Simon Bolivar park: As a comparison, Simon Bolivar park is a little bit larger than New York’s central park. That said, it is the perfect place to escape from the city’s pollution by going for a very long walk. There is a big lake too, upon which you can do a boat tour for $15.000 pesos/ hour.
If you are lucky (and if you like rock!), you will be able to enjoy a 3 day rock festival inside Simon Bolivar’s park. It happens every summer since 1995.
Shared gardens: Shared gardens can be found all around Bogotà in smaller parks. They are maintained by the locals who believe in a more sustainable economy and ecology.
[Diego] La huerta Urbana - Tibaguya: One of the shared gardens recommended by Diego who himself is committed in its development.
[Diego] - close to Bogotà - La cascada Nemusten (Sueva Cundinamarca): One of the biggest waterfalls with pure water from Paramo Chingaza
Where to sleep in Bogotà:
Republica Hostel Bogotà (Chapinero) - A really cozy hostel located in the center of Chapinero, with a little front courtyard and another bigger one at the back. The beds are super comfy, hot water is functioning and you have all the space needed for your stuff. The staff is really nice, they will let you stay around longer if you have a late flight.
Botanico Hostel - Its rooftop gives you a stunning view of both the mountains and the city (La Candelaria)
Hostal Macondo - A family run hostel with beautiful showers and comfy rooms. The shared spaces are decorated very nicely and you can use the kitchen to cook your own meals (Chapinero/El Nogal)
Where to eat in Bogotà:
Verde Vital - Vegan restaurant with really fresh ingredients (center)
El arból del pan - Bakery and dine-in restaurant with delicious pastries, bread, and breakfast (Chapinero)
Da Quei Matti Quinta Camacho - Italian restaurant with really good pasta and terrific pizzas (Chapinero)
Bao social club - For Bao buns 😋 (Chapinero)
Where to go out in Bogotà:
Cocktail time at Monkey House (Chapinero)
El Ghetto: This club reunites 6 rooms that plays different types of music (electro, rock, latino, techno, new wave and disco). Entrance fee is of $50.000 pesos (11 euros) and you can access all 6 rooms. If you get hungry you will find some food trucks inside the complex.
Teatron: Is the largest gay friendly complex with 13 themed rooms! Entrance is $60.000 pesos including drinks.