5-Day Family Adventure in Bogota: Food, Wine and Hidden Gems

Bogota, Colombia

5 days

Adventure

Food and wine

Family

Off the beaten path

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira - Underground Church built within a Salt Mine

Park on Montserrat mountain. View of Mount Guadalupe and the statue of Christ

About Bogota, Colombia

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bogota, Colombia's capital city. Nestled in the Andes, Bogota offers a blend of colonial charm and urban sophistication. Explore the cobblestone streets of La Candelaria, the city's historic heart, home to top attractions like the Gold Museum and Plaza de Bolivar. Ascend Monserrate Hill for panoramic city views. Savor local cuisine, from hearty arepas to exotic fruits at Paloquemao Market. Experience Bogota's thriving arts scene at the Botero Museum or during the Ibero-American Theater Festival. Night owls will love Zona Rosa and Zona T, known for their lively bars and clubs. Bogota, a city of contrasts, promises an unforgettable journey.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Local Markets and La Candelaria

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Local Farmer's Market. Here, you can taste a variety of local fruits and vegetables, and even buy some to take back to your accommodation. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and start your day with a healthy breakfast.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a local eatery. Try the Bandeja Paisa, a typical Colombian dish that includes beans, rice, fried eggs, and meat. It's a hearty meal that will keep you energized for the rest of the day.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic district of La Candelaria. Here, you can see beautiful colonial architecture, visit small art galleries, and learn about the city's history.

Dinner

For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant. Bogota is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, so this is a must-try while you're in the city.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk around the city. The streets are beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy the cool evening breeze.

Day 2

Botanical Garden and Museum Visits

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers, and it's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Lunch

For lunch, try a local bakery. They offer a variety of baked goods, including traditional Colombian pastries. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy a delicious meal.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the city's museums. The Gold Museum and the National Museum are both worth a visit. They offer a fascinating insight into the country's history and culture.

Dinner

For dinner, try a local steakhouse. Colombian beef is known for its quality, and a steak dinner is a great way to end your day.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local theater. Bogota has a vibrant theater scene, and it's a great way to experience the city's culture.

Day 3

Family Fun at the Zoo and Parks

Morning

Start your third day with a visit to the local zoo. It's a great place to see a variety of animals, and it's a fun activity for the whole family.

Lunch

For lunch, try a local pizzeria. Colombian pizza is unique and delicious, and it's a great meal to share with the family.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the city's parks. The National Park and the Simon Bolivar Park are both worth a visit. They offer a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Dinner

For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant. Bogota is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, so this is a must-try while you're in the city.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk around the city. The streets are beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy the cool evening breeze.

Day 4

Local Market and La Candelaria Revisit

Morning

Start your fourth day with a visit to the Local Farmer's Market. Here, you can taste a variety of local fruits and vegetables, and even buy some to take back to your accommodation. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and start your day with a healthy breakfast.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a local eatery. Try the Bandeja Paisa, a typical Colombian dish that includes beans, rice, fried eggs, and meat. It's a hearty meal that will keep you energized for the rest of the day.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic district of La Candelaria. Here, you can see beautiful colonial architecture, visit small art galleries, and learn about the city's history.

Dinner

For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant. Bogota is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, so this is a must-try while you're in the city.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk around the city. The streets are beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy the cool evening breeze.

Day 5

Botanical Garden and Museum Revisit

Morning

Start your fifth day with a visit to the Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers, and it's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Lunch

For lunch, try a local bakery. They offer a variety of baked goods, including traditional Colombian pastries. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy a delicious meal.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the city's museums. The Gold Museum and the National Museum are both worth a visit. They offer a fascinating insight into the country's history and culture.

Dinner

For dinner, try a local steakhouse. Colombian beef is known for its quality, and a steak dinner is a great way to end your day.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local theater. Bogota has a vibrant theater scene, and it's a great way to experience the city's culture.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

1
Local Farmer's Market

A bustling market where local farmers sell their fresh produce.

Shopping

Food and Drink

2
La Candelaria

Historic neighborhood in downtown Bogota, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

Neighborhoods

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

3
Botanical Garden

The largest botanical garden in the country, offering a peaceful retreat from the city and a chance to learn about Colombia's diverse flora.

Gardens

Cultural Experiences

4
Gold Museum

One of the most visited tourist destinations in the country, it displays an extraordinary collection of pre-Hispanic goldwork.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

5
National Museum

The National Museum is the oldest in the country and one of the oldest in the continent, built in 1823. Its fortress architecture is built in stone and brick. The plant includes arches, domes and columns forming a sort of Greek cross over which 104 prison cells are distributed, with the museum's galleries.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

6
Simon Bolivar Park

Simon Bolivar Park is a greenspace and entertainment and sports complex located in the middle of the city. It is named after the Latin American liberator Simon Bolivar.

Parks

Attractions

Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ajiaco

A traditional Colombian chicken soup made with three types of potatoes, corn, and guascas (a local herb). It's a staple dish in Bogota and is often served with a side of avocado and cream.

Changua

A typical breakfast dish in Bogota, Changua is a milk soup with eggs. It's a hearty start to the day and a unique taste of the city's culinary culture.

Tamal Bogotano

A traditional Bogota breakfast dish, Tamal Bogotano is a corn dough filled with chicken, pork, carrots, and peas, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

Lechona

Lechona is a popular Colombian dish, especially in Bogota. It's a whole pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices, then roasted for several hours.

Empanadas

Empanadas are a popular snack in Bogota. These deep-fried pastries are typically filled with meat, potatoes, and spices.

Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa is a traditional Colombian dish that's popular in Bogota. It's a platter that typically includes beans, rice, plantains, avocado, minced meat, chorizo, and a fried egg.

Arepa de Choclo

Arepa de Choclo is a sweet corn cake that's popular in Bogota. It's often served with cheese and is a delicious snack or breakfast dish.

Chicha de Jora

Chicha de Jora is a traditional Colombian fermented corn drink. It's popular in Bogota and has a unique, slightly sour taste.

Obleas

Obleas are a popular dessert in Bogota. They're thin wafers filled with arequipe (a sweet caramel-like spread), cheese, jam, or condensed milk.

Chocolate Santafereno

Chocolate Santafereno is a traditional hot chocolate drink served with cheese. It's a popular treat in Bogota, especially during the colder months.

Pandebono

Pandebono is a type of Colombian cheese bread that's popular in Bogota. It's typically served warm and is a delicious snack or breakfast item.

Agua de Panela

Agua de Panela is a traditional Colombian drink made from unrefined cane sugar. It's often served with lime or cheese and is a popular refreshment in Bogota.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bogota, Colombia as a tourist is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During these months, you can expect less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Another good time is July and August which also tend to be drier. However, Bogota has a relatively stable climate year-round, so it's possible to enjoy your visit at any time of the year. Just remember to pack a light jacket as the city is located at a high altitude, which can make evenings a bit chilly.

How to get around

TransMilenio

Bogota's main public transportation system, the TransMilenio, is a rapid transit bus system that covers a large portion of the city. It operates much like a subway system with designated lanes on the road, frequent service, and stops at stations rather than individual bus stops.

Public Buses

In addition to the TransMilenio, Bogota has a network of smaller public buses that cover areas not reached by the TransMilenio. These buses are often slower and less reliable than the TransMilenio, but they can be a good option for reaching specific destinations.

Taxi

Taxis are a common way to get around Bogota. They are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed on the street or ordered through a taxi dispatch service. Always ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify are available in Bogota. These can be a convenient and safe option, especially for visitors who are not familiar with the city. You can order a ride and pay directly through the app.

Bicycle

Bogota has an extensive network of bike lanes, and the city's bike-sharing program, BiciBogota, allows you to rent a bike for short trips. The city also closes certain streets to motorized traffic on Sundays for Ciclovia, a weekly event that encourages cycling and walking.

Car Rental

Renting a car is an option in Bogota, but it's not recommended for most visitors due to the city's heavy traffic and complex driving conditions. If you do choose to rent a car, be aware that there are restrictions on driving during peak hours based on license plate numbers.

Walk

Many of Bogota's neighborhoods are walkable, and walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city. However, be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ COP

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone119

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage110 V

Things to know about Bogota, Colombia as a first time visitor

1

Bogota is located at a high altitude (2,640 meters or 8,660 feet), so you may experience altitude sickness. Take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.

2

The official language is Spanish. While some people may speak English, it's beneficial to learn some basic Spanish phrases.

3

The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

4

Bogota has a temperate highland tropical climate. Average temperatures range from 41°F to 66°F (5°C to 19°C). Always carry a jacket or sweater as it can get chilly, especially in the evenings.

5

Tipping is not mandatory in Colombia, but it's appreciated. A tip of 10% is considered generous.

6

Bogota is generally safe, but like any major city, it has areas that are best avoided. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

7

Public transportation is widely available and includes buses, taxis, and a rapid transit system called TransMilenio. However, traffic can be heavy, so plan accordingly.

8

Bogota operates on Colombia Time, which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

9

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. However, be aware that the legal drinking age is 18.

10

Colombian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Try local dishes like ajiaco (a hearty soup) and bandeja paisa (a platter of meats, beans, and rice).

11

Bogota is a city of contrasts, with modern skyscrapers next to historic colonial buildings. Respect the local culture and history.

12

The city has a strong coffee culture. Don't miss trying a cup of locally grown Colombian coffee.

13

Bogota has a thriving arts scene. Look out for street art, galleries, and cultural events.

14

The city is located in a seismic zone, and while major earthquakes are rare, smaller tremors are not uncommon.

15

Bogota has a large number of parks and green spaces. Enjoy the outdoors, but remember to clean up after yourself.

16

Colombians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't hesitate to ask for help or directions.

17

Bogota has a strong cycling culture. Consider renting a bike to explore the city, especially on Sundays when certain streets are closed to motorized traffic for Ciclovía.

18

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Bogota, but if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to stick to bottled water.

19

Colombia uses the Type A and Type B plug. The standard voltage is 110 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.

20

Always carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place. It's also a good idea to have a copy of your travel insurance policy.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hola	O-la	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Adiós	A-dee-os	Leaving or saying goodbye to someone
Please	Por favor	Por fa-vor	When asking for something
Thank you	Gracias	Gra-see-as	After receiving something or someone's help
Yes	Sí	See	Agreeing with someone or something
No	No	No	Disagreeing with someone or something
Excuse me	Perdón	Per-don	Getting someone's attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Lo siento	Lo see-en-to	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	¿Hablas inglés?	Ab-las in-gles	When you need to communicate in English
I don't understand	No entiendo	No en-tee-en-do	When you don't understand what is being said
Where is the bathroom?	¿Dónde está el baño?	Don-de es-ta el ban-yo	When you need to use the bathroom
How much does this cost?	¿Cuánto cuesta esto?	Kwan-to kwes-ta es-to	When you want to know the price of something
I would like...	Me gustaría...	Me gus-ta-ree-a	When ordering food or asking for something
Help	Ayuda	A-yu-da	In case of emergency or need of assistance
Call the police	Llame a la policía	Ya-me a la po-lee-see-a	In case of emergency
Can I have the menu, please?	¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?	Pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor	When you want to order food at a restaurant
Water	Agua	A-gwa	When you want to order water
Beer	Cerveza	Ser-ve-za	When you want to order beer
Wine	Vino	Vee-no	When you want to order wine
Check, please	La cuenta, por favor	La kwen-ta, por fa-vor	When you want to pay at a restaurant

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing for warm days
Warm clothing for cool nights
Rain jacket or umbrella
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimsuit (if you plan to visit a spa or pool)
Socks and underwear for 5 days
Pajamas
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection

Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medication
Hand sanitizer

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other form of ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency (Colombian peso)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation booking confirmations
Emergency contacts and addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Universal power adapter
Camera and charger
Headphones
Portable power bank

Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook for Bogota
Spanish phrasebook or dictionary
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for travel
Travel pillow and blanket for the flight
Ziplock bags for protecting electronics and documents
Tote bag for day trips

Weather Conditions

Bogota, Colombia, is known for its mild, temperate climate. The city is located at a high altitude, which contributes to its cooler temperatures. The average temperature in Bogota ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 66°F (19°C), so it's advisable to pack layers to adjust to the varying temperatures throughout the day. The city experiences two main seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season typically occurs from December to March and from July to August. This is the best time to visit if you want to avoid rain and enjoy outdoor activities. However, even during the dry season, Bogota can experience occasional rain showers, so it's always a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat. The rainy season usually occurs from April to May and from September to November. During this time, the city experiences frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. If you're planning to visit during the rainy season, waterproof shoes, rain jackets, and umbrellas are essential. Despite the rain, Bogota's beauty shines through, and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. Regardless of the season, Bogota can be quite cool in the evenings and early mornings. It's advisable to pack warm clothing like sweaters or jackets. Also, due to its high altitude, the sun in Bogota can be intense, so don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Enjoy your visit to Bogota!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	20° / 6°	January is a relatively dry month in Bogota, making it a good time for outdoor activities.
February	21° / 7°	February is a bit warmer but still dry, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.
March	22° / 8°	March sees a slight increase in temperature and the start of the rainy season, so pack a raincoat.
April	23° / 9°	April is one of the wettest months in Bogota, so indoor activities are recommended.
May	23° / 9°	May continues to be rainy, but the city's lush greenery is at its most vibrant.
June	22° / 8°	June marks the end of the rainy season, with temperatures dropping slightly.
July	21° / 7°	July is a cool and dry month, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
August	21° / 7°	August is similar to July, with cool temperatures and low rainfall.
September	22° / 8°	September sees a slight increase in temperature and the start of the second rainy season.
October	23° / 9°	October is the wettest month in Bogota, so be prepared for frequent showers.
November	23° / 9°	November is still rainy, but the temperatures remain mild.
December	22° / 8°	December is a festive month in Bogota, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall.