Bogota travel guide
Meet BogotaBogota weather reportGetting into BogotaTop attractions in BogotaGetting around BogotaWhere to eat in Bogota Page 2 : More information on Bogota
Meet Bogota
Situated over 8000 feet above sea level in the Andino region of Colombia , Bogota is a fairly easy city to capital oriented . Its huge mountains to the east are visible from everywhere and it has been Declared a metropolis comparable with the likes of San Francisco and Dubai thanks to its political and cultural development , making it a " world class urban destination . "
The peaceful and historical Meet the fast - paced and ultra - modern in Bogota . Old churches sit side by side with loud traffic jams , and delicious traditional food is found next to business hubs . Its place on the world financial map draws cultural influence from North America and Europe , making it one of the most metropolitan cities of the continent if not the world .
The city is divided into 20 districts , each with its own unique charm and selling point , be it bull fighting , artsy bistros , night clubs or long lasting signs of natural beauty . Bogota 's all - round mild climate makes it an ideal place to visit at any time of the year , but January sees the most hours of sunlight and rainfall least , Which May Be Attractive to the temperate climate -seeker .
Bogota weather report
Bogota 's proximity to the equator means that the temperature does not vary much Throughout the year , but it does not get as hot as other cities near the equator , droughts and Phuket in Thailand due to its high altitude ( temperature falls to 6c per 1000m) . Average temperatures range between 24c and 6c , with increasing rainfall Gradually Throughout the year .
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Bogota
El Dorado International Airport receives flights daily from around the Americas , and frequent services from Europe and beyond . It is about 20 minutes from the city center , Which can be reached via the following options :
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Taxi - find a regulated taxi stand , where you will state your destination and receive a ticket with a printed price . Then find a driver and show him your ticket - you will only pay the amount printed , Which is typically 15000-20000 COP (Colombian Pesos )
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Bus - unless you are familiar with the city , getting in by bus May be tricky , as the stops are not Clearly identified . Drivers are friendly , however , and are usually happy to tell you where to disembark if you inform them of your destination beforehand . If in doubt , get out at the Transmilenio station and go from there.
Buses are also available for transport around the city , but again , make sure to plan your route beforehand .
Top attractions in Bogota
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La Candelaria not only has a fantastic view of central Bogota , but it is where many of the main events in South American Independence took place , including the execution of Policarpo Salavarrieta heroine , and the escape of Simon Bolivar . Several museums and monuments are scattered old around this area , almost all of Which do not charge for entry
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Donación Botero holds a collection of paintings by Botero as well as work by Dali , Picasso , Renoir , and Monet
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The Gold Museum and Casa de Moneda tell the history of moneymaking and hold collections of pre- Spanish art gold
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Other museums of note include the Museum of Colonial Art , Museum Francisco Jose de Caldas , and National Police Historical Museum
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Cerro de Monserrate has a truly beautiful panoramic view of the city . Take the funicular or explore the hiking trail . Alternatively , visit Torre Colpatria Carrera , Which is Bogota 's tallest building
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Historic Downtown Day Tour for a quick guided spin around the city 's historic highlights
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Avenida Septima is closed to traffic every Firday and Saturday night , and is overtaken by performance art and craft fairs
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See a football game ! This is one of the world 's most popular destinations for football lovers , the sport is practically a second religion to Columbians , with it 's worth going to a game to check out the local team , Club Deportivo Los Millonarios
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Take a cab to the south of the city and soak up the local working class vibe over a loaf of Pandebono , local bread infused with cheese
Getting around Bogota
Metered cabs are affordable in Bogota . It is always advisable to phone ahead for security reasons, and confirm your booking to the driver with the last two digits of the phone used to call. Ensure that the meter is reset when the trip begins , and tip at your discretion . There are surcharges for holidays , airport drop offs , and Journeys past 8pm .
Colombia also has Latin America 's largest bicycle network , and bikes can be rented around the city . The law requires riders to wear a helmet and reflective vest .
Colectivos , or common shuttle buses are faster than regular buses and OFTEN used by locals . Flag down the driver and state ( in Spanish ) where you want to go .
Where to eat in Bogota
Local cuisine includes arepas ( corn flour based pancakes ) , Empanandas ( cornflour pastries ) , and Ajiaco ( thick soup ) .
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Henry Comida Rapida - fast food place near the university , the biggest Serves empanadas on the continent !
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Cadaques - Spanish fusion cuisine including paella and tapas
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Thezera - International cuisine , Mainly from around the Americas featuring live Jazz on Thursdays
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Criterion - Five star cuisine with a heavy French influence and weekly tasting menu
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Gostinos 69 - Seafood at inexpensive prices