The Must-Sees for Enjoying and Experiencing New Adventures in Bogotá
Bogotá has steadily climbed the ranks of the world’s most visited cities, becoming one of Latin America’s top tourist capitals. According to the Travelers in Bogotá 2022 study, the city welcomed approximately 11.3 million visitors last year, with over 10 million domestic travelers and 1.2 million international tourists. Additionally, in the first five months of this year, more than 5.2 million passengers passed through the Transport Terminal, marking a 21.7% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
Today, Bogotá boasts excellent infrastructure for events and high-quality tourism services. Combined with its gastronomy, culture, and natural surroundings, the capital of Colombia offers unique experiences that make it the perfect destination for adventure seekers. Tierra Querida invites you to explore and enjoy Bogotá’s incredible offerings with safety and prudence, following the guidance of official authorities.
Plaza de Bolívar
A visit to Bogotá must begin at Plaza de Bolívar, the city’s historic heart. Located in the downtown area, between Carrera 7 and Carrera 8, this is where Bogotá was founded. The square is an ideal spot for photos, with pigeons adding charm to the scene. It is surrounded by iconic architectural landmarks, including:
- The Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá
- Liévano Palace (Bogotá’s City Hall)
- The National Capitol (home to the Colombian Congress)
Monserrate
One of Bogotá’s most emblematic landmarks, Monserrate offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This cultural and religious site can be reached via cable car, funicular, or hiking trail, making it a favorite destination for both tourists and fitness enthusiasts. The route to the top is surrounded by lush local flora and fauna, providing a refreshing escape from the urban landscape.
Distrito Graffiti
For a unique urban art experience, visit Distrito Graffiti, located in the San Rafael neighborhood, near Avenida de las Américas. Thanks to various initiatives supporting local and Latin American artists, the once-plain walls of the area’s warehouses have been transformed into vivid, large-scale murals, turning the district into a living art gallery.
La Candelaria
This historic neighborhood boasts the highest concentration of museums and restaurants in the city. Its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture tell stories of Bogotá’s evolution over the past two centuries. Key attractions include:
- El Chorro de Quevedo, where Bogotá’s history began. The fountain and small plaza, dating back to 1832, still retain their original charm.
Gold Museum
The Gold Museum offers an immersive journey into Colombia’s pre-Hispanic indigenous cultures. Located along Carrera 7, this museum showcases:
- Over 34,000 handcrafted gold artifacts
- Ancient fossils, mummies, bones, and shells
Spread across three floors, the museum’s exhibits explore the rich traditions of Colombia’s ancestral civilizations, making it one of the country’s most significant cultural institutions.
Virgilio Barco Public Library
Designed by the renowned Rogelio Salmona, this architectural masterpiece is located between Carrera 60 and Calle 63. With its spiral-shaped structure and peaceful surroundings, the library serves as a hub for free cultural activities. Positioned along Bogotá’s network of metropolitan parks, it offers visitors the chance to enjoy fresh air and the tranquil beauty of a reflecting pool.
Usaquén Neighborhood
Usaquén’s central plaza is a charming colonial gem, with cobblestone streets and traditional houses. The area is also known for its diverse culinary scene. If you visit on a weekend, don’t miss the Usaquén Flea Market, where you can browse handmade crafts, antiques, and gourmet treats.
Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park
Bogotá’s largest urban park—and one of Latin America’s most renowned—spans 910,000 square meters of green space. A haven of nature within the city, the park is perfect for outdoor activities, concerts, and sports.
José Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden
If you love plants and biodiversity, a visit to Bogotá’s Botanical Garden is a must. Home to Colombia’s largest tropical greenhouse, the garden houses:
- 900 plant specimens
- Over 200 species of flora
Additionally, the city’s largest rose garden adds a romantic touch to the experience.
For Ajiaco Lovers: La Puerta Falsa
For a true taste of Bogotá, visit La Puerta Falsa, a historic restaurant located near the Primatial Cathedral. This iconic eatery is famous for its:
- Ajiaco (a traditional Bogotá-style chicken and potato soup)
- Tamales
- Chocolate Santafereño (a rich, spiced hot chocolate)
This area is also known for its diverse selection of local cuisine, offering an authentic “cachaco” dining experience.
Extreme Adrenaline: Drakko – The Flying Beast
Thrill-seekers will love Drakko: The Flying Beast, Latin America’s tallest and fastest roller coaster. Opened in September, this attraction at Salitre Mágico Park features:
- A towering height of 47.5 meters
- A high-speed track of 263 meters
- A thrilling top speed of 100 km/h
Bogotá offers a mix of history, adventure, culture, and entertainment—ready to explore the capital?