Bogota

Arriving here is literally a breathtaking experience—at 2,640 meters (8,660 ft), you feel the altitude. But once you catch your breath, you'll find a sprawling, energetic city that blends colonial history, gritty street art, and a surprisingly sophisticated culinary scene. Many find its initial impression to be one of organized chaos, yet its raw, authentic vibe quickly captivates. It's a city that doesn't just show its beauty; it makes you feel its pulse.

Bogotá stands as one of South America's most underrated capitals. First, its cultural scene is incredible. Visitors can spend days exploring the museums in La Candelaria, like the world-famous Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, which are conveniently located and often free. Second, the food and coffee are a revelation. From hearty bowls of Ajiaco soup to world-class coffee experiences in Chapinero, the culinary offerings are consistently impressive. Lastly, it's a city of fascinating contrasts—from the historic, cobblestoned streets of La Candelaria to the chic, modern boutiques and restaurants in northern neighborhoods like Usaquén and Chapinero. It’s a place that feels real, lived-in, and full of stories.

The people in Bogotá, known as "Rolos," are incredibly warm and polite once engaged, though they might seem a bit reserved at first compared to other parts of Colombia. Spanish is the main language, and knowing at least some basic phrases helps immensely, as English isn't as widely spoken, especially outside the main tourist zones. The city is a melting pot of Colombians from all over the country, adding to its diverse cultural fabric. Politeness is key; always start with a "buenos días" or "buenas tardes" before asking for anything.

The food in Bogotá is exceptional. The local cuisine is hearty and comforting. Visitors absolutely have to try Ajiaco, a rich chicken and potato soup that's a Bogotá specialty—it's the perfect meal for a cool day. Another must-try is "chocolate santafereño," hot chocolate served with cheese that is meant to be dropped into the cup. It sounds strange, but it's delicious! For a real taste of local life, visit the Paloquemao Market for an explosion of exotic fruits and street food. Dining can be incredibly affordable; a great local lunch (corrientazo) can be had for 10,000-14,000 COP ($2.50-$3.50 USD), while an executive menu might be 17,000-20,000 COP ($4.25-$5 USD). The upscale restaurants in Zona G (in Chapinero) offer world-class dining experiences.

Bogotá's infrastructure is a mixed bag. On one hand, fantastic, high-speed internet is available in most cafes and apartments, making it great for digital nomads. On the other hand, the public transport system, the TransMilenio, is extensive but can get incredibly crowded, and traffic is a constant battle. The city is actively working on its first metro system, with Line 1 over halfway complete as of mid-2025; it's projected to begin operational testing in 2027 and full commercial service in Q2 2028. Power and water are generally reliable in the main tourist areas, though some older buildings can have inconsistent water pressure. The city is at high altitude but not prone to major earthquakes or hurricanes.

Travelers will almost certainly fly into El Dorado International Airport (BOG), a large and modern facility. From there, getting to the city center is pretty straightforward. The most secure and hassle-free option is taking a registered taxi from the official queue or using a ride-hailing app like Uber or DiDi; the trip usually takes 30-45 minutes depending on Bogotá's notorious traffic and costs around 30,000-40,000 COP ($8-11 USD). For a more budget-friendly (and adventurous) route, use the TransMilenio bus system. This involves taking a free feeder bus from the airport to the Portal El Dorado station, buying a tullave card, and then navigating the bus system from there.

Bogotá's main public transport is the TransMilenio, a bus rapid transit (BRT) system with dedicated lanes. Travelers need to buy and load a tullave card, which costs around 7,000 COP, and each trip is a flat fee of about 3,200 COP as of January 2025. It's efficient for long distances but gets intensely crowded during peak hours and is a known spot for pickpockets. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and DiDi are popular, technically illegal but widely used, and offer a preferred way to get around at night. In neighborhoods like La Candelaria, Chapinero, and Usaquén, walking is a great way to explore during the day.

It's important to be smart about safety in Bogotá. The city has a reputation, and while it has improved immensely, it's not a place to let your guard down. Violent crime and armed robbery do occur in Bogotá. The local saying, "No dar papaya" (don't give papaya), is the golden rule—it means don't make yourself an easy target. Avoid flashing expensive phones or jewelry. Key advice emphasizes location and time. La Candelaria, the historic center, is fascinating by day but becomes dangerous at night; taking a taxi or Uber directly to your door is advisable if out late. Northern neighborhoods like Chapinero and Usaquén are generally much safer for walking in the evening. Street crime like phone snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Also, be wary of drink spiking, which can target anyone, but particularly men on dating apps or in nightlife settings. These events are relatively uncommon for visitors who stay in tourist-friendly areas and follow precautions, but they happen enough that you must be conscious of them.