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Bogota Colombia Travel Guide

INTRODUCTION

Exceptionally friendly locals, beautiful colonial architecture, thriving artistic and intellectual communities, and vibrant nightlife--Colombia’s capital has it all. La Candelaria, the charming historical district, boasts several colonial churches, as well as cafes and bakeries where one can enjoy local fare like santafereno (hot chocolate served with cheese and fresh bread). The TransMilenio urban bus service is a fast and efficient means of getting around the capital. Bogota is bordered by a mountain range and on clear days visitors can overlook the entire city from the top of Cerro de Monserrate.

HISTORY

Bogota was founded on August 6, 1538. The capital of Colombia since 1819, it serves as the political and cultural center of the nation. Bogota was once the capital of "Gran Colombia", a federation combining the territories of Venezuela, Panama, Ecuador, and Colombia into one unique nation. The "Palacio de Narino", where President Alvaro Uribe lives, is located in Bogota's historical center. The city has an estimated population of over 8 million. Its natives are traditionally called "cachacos".

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Climate: Bogota's climate is tempered by high altitude, which means that its temperature can get as high as 67°F and as low as 42°F.

Bogota is also the most populated city in the country, which means that the traffic is pretty hectic during rush hours. If you wish to use a taxi service always call ahead--avoid taking a cab on the street. This is this most important thing to know when visiting a big Latin-American city. Be sure to avoid going to what's known as "South Bogota"--there are no tourist attractions and it can be dangerous.

ATTRACTIONS

The city is known among nationals as "the city that has it all". Bogota hosts people from every single corner of the country, offering a wide range of activities and places to visit. Places like the Modern Museum and the National Museum are just two examples of the importance of culture in this city. Art galleries like "Galeria Mundo", Galeria Sextante, or "Cero Galeria" are another part of the attractions for locals and tourists alike. Universities (the best and most recognizable are in Bogota) play an outstanding role in the city--presenting their own expositions and art work. The International Theater Festival takes place here, so theater is also a great diversion. The historical distric is a must see. Its tradition, and the history behind it, allows understanding of Bogota's past. Stories of political confrontations are everywhere, leaving a testimony of tragic events, as well as successful ones.

RESTAURANTS

Bogota has become an outstanding reputation when it comes to food and restaurants. "Andres Carne de Res" is a great place to visit not only for the typical Columbian food, but also beacuse it's the place to go if you're looking for the best party in town. If you're not in the mood for trying new food, "Creps and Waffles" is an unexpensive and delicious option. Harry Sasson is also a good pick, although it may be a more expensive option. "Leo, Cocina y Cava", located in the traditional neighborhood La Candelaria, is a great choice if you would like to try a mixture of tradional flavors and international and modern cooking. These are just a few examples of Columbian and international cousine that visitors can find in the city. There's a specific sector/neighborhood in the city called "Zona G" (the "G" stands for "Gourmet"), where you will find the most exclusive restaurants and bars in Bogota.

NIGHTLIFE

Bogota is well-known in Latin America for its vibrant nightlife. Every single type of partying you can think of can be found in town. "Zona T", "Parque de la 93", and "EL Centro", or downtown, are the neighborhoods where the best places to party can be found. "Zona T" has some of the best pubs and lounges, such as Irish Pub, The Whiskey House, Pravda (great Lychees Martini), Bogota Beer Company, and Palos de Moguer. At "Parque de la 93" you can drink coffee at Oma or grab a few beers at the Bogota Beer Company or The Beer Lounge. There are many options here and parties are all over the place. "El Centro", or Bogota's downtown, consists of many traditional neighborhoods like "La Candelaria". This is a place where bohemian nightlife abounds. "El Goce Pagano" is for those who seek pure Latin fiestas. Because it is so afforadle, tourists and locals alike love this place. For a more luxurious location, "Leo Bar", where you can mix with politicans and artists, is the place to be(its "Corozo martini" is a must if you decide to go). For the ultimate mixture of culture and salsa head to the "Galeria Cafe y Libro", where art meets nightlife.

LODGING

Hotels like the Hotel Capital or the Four Points Sheraton, near El Dorado Airport, are the main options, but not the only ones. Downtown, not too far from the airport, are choices like the Hotel Tequendama (one of the most traditional hotels in Bogota). Hostels are less expensive choices and offer a more adventurous experience. The best ones in town are "Hostal La Candelaria" and "El Cafecito Cafe-Hostal", both located downtown. "La Fontana" is one of the best hotels in the city, but it is also apart from nightlife and restaurants, so if going out and nightlife are major interests, then hotels like the "Charleston Bogota", "Hotel Dann", or "Andino Royal", located either near "Zona T" or "Parque de la 93", would be great.