Helen & Juan
Things To Do
Plaza de Bolivar
This plaza is known as the main square of Bogotá. There are many important buildings such as, the Cathedral of Bogotá, which is known for its imposing build and large bell towers, as well as the National Capitol which is a wide palace that houses the Congress of Colombia. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
La Candelaria
La Candelaria is a historical neighborhood, best explored on foot. It is the oldest part of the city and is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, museums, and vibrant culture. Here you can wander down the narrow cobblestone streets, try a variety of local dishes and buy more souvenirs. Visit the artsy streets near Calle del Embudo and walk along the Eje Ambiental park, which stretches along the Carrera 2A. This is a hub for young artists, university students, and independent businesses. This area is safe during the daytime but NOT safe after sunset. Please be careful at night.
Cafe Ensamble
Specialty coffee with the best homemade chocolate and carrot cake. They also sell other baked goods like empanadas. Located in the heart of La Candelaria and around the corner from the President's house.
Emerald Trade Center
In case you didn't know, Bogota is known for their emeralds. This is a 3 story mall with 26 shops and offices only selling emeralds in any form you can imagine. It's a great place to buy jewelry. Do your research beforehand on what you are looking for because they will up charge you since you are tourists. Have fun shopping!
Museo de Oro
The Gold Museum is home to one of the largest collections of gold artifacts on earth, with around 55,000 pieces, which include other rare metals and findings. Go early on weekdays to avoid the crowds. It's a 10 minute walk from Plaza de Bolivar. They are CLOSED on Mondays.
Monserrate
This is the highest viewpoint of Bogota. Take the cable car up to the top of the mountain and check out the chapel on the top of the mountain. There are souvenirs you can buy from different street vendors and food/drinks for purchase as well. FYI, you will definitely feel the difference in altitude up there so if you have asthma, DO NOT FORGET YOUR INHALER!! It is extremely windy and chilly on the mountain, so dress warmly. When you get to the top, stop by the cafe near the chapel and order some Chicha. It is delicious and will warm you up!
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
There is an underground Roman Catholic church that was built in 1950 (some 200 meters deep into a salt mine just on the edge of Zipaquirá). Inside it has various altars and hollowed-out rooms, as well as numerous crosses - all built out of the local salt of course! Highly recommend taking a direct train from Bogota. Book the train tickets ahead of time! $15 per person roundtrip. They fill up fast! The ride is about 2 hrs. If you take the train from Usaquen, it's about 7 min from the hotel. The train offers food and drinks for purchase. The train also hires musicians to play music that fits perfectly with the countryside. The musicians interact with the crowds and love hyping up visitors. Bring cash if you want to tip them :) The train also has English speaking tour guides where you can purchase your ticket to the Salt Cathedral. Once you get off the trains, tour buses are available to take you to the Salt Cathedral for a certain cost and then there is the entry fee at the door.
Paloquemao Market
This is the biggest and most authentic Colombian market, with tons of vendors selling everything from vegetables, fruits, meats, spices and more. It's about half hr from Plaza de Bolivar.
Centro Comercial Andino
The malls in Bogota are MASSIVE! They are Mega-malls with everything and anything you could possibly want or need. They have many different Colombian brands, as well as US brands like H&M, Levi's, Forever21, Zara etc. We went to Centro Comercial Andino, in the downtown area. It has 230 shops spread over 4 floors with gyms and supermarkets.