Bogota Columbia 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Bogotá Itinerary: Exploring the Heart of Colombia

This itinerary balances cultural immersion with outdoor adventure, showcasing Bogotá’s diverse offerings.

Things to Know:

  • Altitude: Bogotá sits at 8,660 feet (2,636 meters). Pace yourself and allow time to acclimate to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller vendors and street food.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language. Download a translation app or learn basic phrases.

Transportation:

  • TransMilenio: Efficient bus rapid transit system covering most of the city. Purchase a rechargeable “Tarjeta TU” at stations.
  • Taxis: Abundant and relatively inexpensive, but use authorized taxis (yellow) or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi for safety.
  • Walking: Bogotá is walkable in many areas, especially La Candelaria and Chapinero.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: The Four Seasons Casa Medina, Hotel B

  • Mid-range: ClickClack Hotel, Selina La Candelaria

  • Budget: Hostel Jardín, GHL Hotel Bogotá

Food:

  • Ajiaco: Traditional chicken and potato soup with capers.
  • Arepas: Grilled cornmeal cakes filled with cheese, meat, or eggs.
  • Bandeja Paisa: Hearty platter of rice, beans, ground beef, sausage, pork belly, fried egg, avocado, and plantain.

Day 1: Historical Immersion in La Candelaria

  • Morning: Explore the historic district (La Candelaria) on foot. Visit Plaza de Bolívar, Catedral Primada, Palacio de Justicia, and Iglesia de San Francisco.

  • Afternoon: Tour the Museo Botero, showcasing Fernando Botero’s iconic artwork.

  • Evening: Dine at Restaurante Casa Vieja, known for its traditional Colombian cuisine in a charming colonial setting.

Day 2: Art & Coffee Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) to marvel at pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art scene in La Candelaria and Monserrate Hill. Take a cable car up for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy a coffee tasting experience at one of Bogotá’s many specialty coffee shops, like Amor Perfecto or Azúcar.

Day 3: Day Trip to Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral

  • Morning: Take a bus (around 1 hour) to Zipaquirá and visit the awe-inspiring Salt Cathedral, carved entirely from salt within an underground mine.
  • Afternoon: Explore Zipaquirá town square and enjoy a traditional lunch at Restaurante El Molino de Plata.
  • Evening: Relax back in Bogotá.

Day 4: Nature Escape & Graffiti Tour

  • Morning: Hike up Monserrate Hill (cable car or walking trail). Enjoy panoramic city views and explore the church at the summit.

  • Afternoon: Join a graffiti tour in the vibrant La Candelaria neighborhood to learn about street art history and social commentary.

  • Evening: Experience Bogotá’s nightlife in the Zona Rosa district, known for its bars and restaurants. Try La Brasserie for French cuisine or Andrés Carne de Res for an energetic atmosphere with live music.

Day 5: Shopping & Local Flavors

  • Morning: Explore Usaquén Market, a traditional Sunday market (open until 2pm) offering handicrafts, local produce, and street food.
  • Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs in the Zona T or Parque 93 neighborhoods. Indulge in a delicious “chocolate con queso” (hot chocolate with cheese) at La Puerta Falsa.

Day 6: Farewell Bogotá

  • Morning: Visit the Museo Nacional de Colombia, showcasing Colombian art and history.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final meal at one of your favorite restaurants.

  • Evening: Depart from El Dorado International Airport (BOG).

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas.
  • Carry small denominations for street vendors and transportation.
  • Negotiate prices at markets and with taxi drivers.

Enjoy your trip to Bogotá!