We finally set off for our rainy ride into Bogotá, a city that promises adventure at every turn. As we arrived, the streets buzzed with energy, the sights of downtown and the plazas were captivating, and the sounds of local musicians added a charming touch to our experience.
Gateway to South America
Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia, is the gateway to South America. With a population of over 11.5 million people, it’s a bustling metropolis brimming with amazing arts and culture. Despite a slightly bumpy arrival, the city’s vibrancy quickly swept us off our feet.
Ascending Monserrate
With a short window to explore, the first thing on our list was Monserrate. Known for its stunning views, we eagerly headed to the top of this famous mountain. We knew there were tram and funicular options, but our journey took an unexpected turn.
Arriving at the base, we were greeted not by the ride we anticipated but by a lively street fair. It was a happy accident, reminiscent of Bob Ross’s philosophy. Unsure of where to go, we followed the crowd, only to realize we were amidst a religious pilgrimage. The day before Easter, we found ourselves walking with tens of thousands of Christians, heading to one of Colombia’s most famous churches.
The Unexpected Hike
The pilgrimage led us up a nearly two-mile hike with a 2,000-foot elevation gain. Ill-prepared but determined, we pressed on, joined by locals who encouraged us along the way. The path was lined with kiosks selling snacks, drinks, and other essentials, making the strenuous climb a bit more bearable. Honestly, given what is on the way, we wondered how they struggled to bring everything up.
With every step, the incline grew steeper, and our view was mostly the backsides of fellow pilgrims. Yet, the sense of community and purpose kept us moving forward. As we neared the top, the city of Bogotá spread out beneath us, a breathtaking sight that made the effort worthwhile.
The Summit
Finally, we reached the summit. The overcast sky couldn’t obscure the stunning views. Standing over 10,000 feet above sea level, we took in the panoramic vistas of Bogotá. At the top, we visited the Monserrate Sanctuary and shrine that have drawn pilgrims for over 400 years. The history of the church was palpable as we meandered through the people who were there for the morning service. The crowds outside were even greater, with throngs of people who made the ascent to explore the top of the mountain.
If you look closely, you can see the shrine of the fallen Lord of Monserrate, made in 1640 by the artist Pedro de Lugo Albarracín, over on Guadalupe Hill. For many faithful Catholics, this statue of the Lord is miraculous and represents a special encounter with God. Hence why every weekend many Colombians and foreigners make the climb up the hill. The sense of accomplishment was immense, and the historical and religious significance added depth to our experience.
Exploring the Market
Adjacent to the sanctuary was a bustling outdoor market. Initially, it is kind of like most outdoor markets you see peddling touristy items and knockoff merchandise. We indulged in local delicacies, enjoyed a well-earned beer, and soaked up the vibrant atmosphere. Once we worked our way past that, we food this really cool food court, with a number of stalls filled with Colombian. This was a feast for the senses, with sizzling sounds and spicy smells drawing us in. You really can’t go wrong with any of them, but we made our choice, as we needed fuel post-hike. We got some arepas and beers, which were only a few bucks total. Our simple and affordable lunch was a highlight, reminding us of the culinary treasures of Latin America.
The Descent
Reluctantly, we found the line for the funicular and began our descent. The ride down was packed and aromatic, but the stunning views more than compensated. On this day, the lines to get to the funicular were quite long, so make sure you budget enough time. Back on the rain-soaked streets of Bogotá, we laughed at how close we had been to the funicular at the start. Miscommunication and adventure go hand in hand when traveling.
Downtown Bogotá
Our next stop was Plaza Bolivar, the beating heart of the city. Named after Simon Bolivar, the square is surrounded by historic buildings, including Bogotá’s main cathedral and the National Capitol. The plaza was alive with festivities, cotton candy, llama rides, and fresh juice carts, celebrating the day before Easter. While the festivities will be lively, be prepared for a number of vendors approaching you. They won’t push if you refuse, but just something to be aware of. Also, there are a number of great little restaurants near the square if you are hungry.
Savoring the Local Flavors
Following the enticing aroma, we found a cart brimming with boiling fruit. We were introduced to Canelazo, a local drink made with Aguardiente and various fruits and spices. The sweet, hot toddy-like drink was perfect for the overcast day, adding warmth to our chilly adventure. It was really a great little drink to enjoy as we wandered the plaza and took in the sights and sounds.
The Streets of Bogotá
The military presence in the city was noticeable but didn’t detract from our sense of safety. We wandered through neighborhoods, admiring ancient architecture and vibrant street art. One of the highlights was the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen, known for its red and white stripes. Seriously, this thing looks like a giant candy cane. We’d never really seen anything like it before.
Wrapping Up the Day
After a day filled with unexpected adventures and cultural immersion, we headed back to our hotel. A long Uber ride through the city gave us one last chance to soak in the sights and sounds of Bogotá. Despite Uber’s legal status being questionable in Colombia, it remained a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
Our journey in Bogotá was a testament to the beauty of unexpected adventures. From our unplanned hike up Monserrate to the lively streets of Plaza Bolivar, the city left an indelible mark on us. As we looked out from the window seat of our Uber, we knew we had experienced something truly unforgettable. A 40 minute ride across town was only about $3, so it is a good way to save some cash. However, it is technically illegal in Colombia so you may need to ride in the front seat.
Tips for Travelers:
- Embrace the unexpected; sometimes the best experiences come from unplanned detours.
- Visit Monserrate for its breathtaking views, but be prepared for a challenging hike.
- Explore Plaza Bolivar to immerse yourself in Bogotá’s history and culture.
- Try local delicacies and drinks; they offer a unique taste of the city.
- Use Uber for convenient and affordable transportation, but be aware of its legal status.
Bogotá is a city that surprises and delights at every turn. Whether you’re hiking up Monserrate or exploring downtown, the experiences you’ll have here are worth every step. So pack your bags, keep an open mind, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
Recommended Hotels:
- The Artisan D.C. Hotel, Autograph Collection Located in Chapinero. This is a boutique hotel offering a unique blend of modern and rustic design. It’s known for its personalized service, comfortable rooms, and an on-site restaurant, Osaki .
- Hotel de la Opera Located in La Candelaria. Situated in the historic center, this hotel features colonial architecture and offers a charming experience with modern amenities. It’s perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Bogotá’s rich history and culture.
- Avani Royal Zona T Located in the heart of Zona Rosa, a lively area known for its nightlife, shopping, and dining options. Offers soundproofed rooms to ensure a quiet night’s sleep, even in the midst of a vibrant neighborhood. Other amenities include air conditioning, a fitness center, and a buffet breakfast. The staff is noted for their attentive and helpful service.
- Hotel El Dorado Bogota Located in Chicó Norte. It features modern rooms, great breakfast, attentive service, and safe surroundings. A good choice for both short and longer stays
- Bioxuy Hotel Located in Zona T. Close to popular attractions, upscale shopping centers, and vibrant nightlife. Zona T is known for its lively ambiance and is a prime location for tourists. Hotel also features multiple restaurants and stylish rooms.
- Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia Located in Zona Rosa. French elegance combined with Colombian hospitality. The hotel features stylish rooms, a renowned restaurant (Basilic), and a prime location near shopping and nightlife.
These hotels provide a range of amenities and are located in some of Bogotá’s most vibrant and interesting neighborhoods, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Also, these are really all affordable. This list includes some 5-star hotels thatt can go for less than $100 per night.
