Bogota Colombia 4 Day Itinerary

Bogotá Adventure: 4-Day Itinerary

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
  • Language: Spanish
  • Altitude: Bogota sits at 8,660 feet (2,636 meters) above sea level, so be prepared for altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first day.
  • Safety: Bogotá is generally safe, but exercise caution like in any major city. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be aware of pickpockets.

Transportation:

  • Transmilenio: Bogota’s efficient bus rapid transit system. Purchase a rechargeable “Tarjeta Cívica” card for easy access.
  • Taxis: Easily available, but use only registered taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify.
  • Walking: Many areas of central Bogotá are walkable and offer beautiful views.

Where to Stay:

  • Zona Rosa (Pink Zone): Lively area with restaurants, bars, and boutique hotels.
  • La Candelaria: Historic district with charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and hostels.
  • Chapinero: Trendy neighborhood with cafes, art galleries, and upscale accommodations.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Historical Immersion

  • Morning: Explore La Candelaria’s colorful streets, visit the Plaza de Bolívar, the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts, and the Botero Museum featuring Fernando Botero’s signature chubby figures.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Colombian dishes like ajiaco or bandeja paisa at La Puerta Falsa.
  • Afternoon: Climb to Monserrate by cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of Bogotá.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious dinner and live music at Andres Carne de Res, a famous Colombian restaurant and entertainment venue.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration & Graffiti Art

  • Morning: Visit the Museo Nacional de Colombia to delve into the country’s history, art, and archaeology.
  • Lunch: Try empanadas and arepas at El Chasqui in La Candelaria.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Graffiti Tour of La Candelaria.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Teatro Colón, Bogotá’s grand opera house.

Day 3: Nature & Relaxation

  • Morning: Escape the city hustle with a day trip to the Cerros Orientales, a mountain range offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature in the Cerros Orientales.
  • Afternoon: Relax and rejuvenate at Parque Simón Bolívar, Bogotá’s largest park with lakes, bike paths, and gardens.

Day 4: Coffee & Departure

  • Morning: Visit a local coffee shop like Amor Perfecto for a Colombian coffee tasting experience.
  • Lunch: Savor your last meal in Bogotá at Harry Sasson, a renowned restaurant serving modern Colombian cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Depart from El Dorado International Airport (BOG).

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
  • Bargain for souvenirs and handicrafts at markets like the Mercado de Paloquemao.
  • Download a translation app for easy communication.
  • Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.