Information about Bogota - Capital of ColombiaIs it worth it for you to visit Bogota - the capital of Colombia? It really depends on what you want. Are you looking for...
If you answer yes to a number of the above points, then it's most likely worth it. However, if you're used to cosmopolitan cities around the world, Bogota might not be that exciting. 
OverviewBogota is a fast-paced, busy and an energetic capital. Compared to a number of other cities around the country, it is relatively cosmopolitan and rather hip. Medellin for example, is the second city of Colombia, but can't compare to Bogota for attitude and sophistication.There is one very negative aspect to Bogota; the traffic. It's congested and polluted because of the car fumes. Climate & Clothing
At 2640m (8660 feet), it is relatively cool for a country that crosses the equator. Nights are cold with temperatures falling to a few degrees above freezing (frost does occur from time to time) and climb to a little over 20 degrees centigrade / (70 Fahrenheit) during the day. You need warm clothing, especially for the morning and evenings. The day can be pleasant when it's not raining. Around midday, sitting outside for lunch is a pleasure, but the clouds can gather making it much cooler. I would never go out without a warmish jacket. North / South DivideThere is an enormous North/ South divide. North = rich, South = poor. There are of course a number of gradations of this, but the difference is huge.La Candelaria
An artsy, energetic and lively part of town. The place for galleries, student bars, old colonial architecture, restaurants and a place to walk about and take in the atmosphere. La Zona Rosa & El Parque de la 93
To the North, these two areas are home to nightlife, bars, restaurants, glitzy glamor and a place for the rich and famous to flaunt their cash. Both areas are great for just walking around and you can drop in pretty much anywhere you like the look of. Usaquen
Usaquen is a beautiful and well-preserved area to the North of Bogota. This is an upmarket part of town with high-end shops and restaurants. It can be very difficult to find parking here, so better to take a taxi. I personally recommend the restaurant 80 Sillas (80 chairs) that specializes in Peruvian cuisine and might argue that it is the best restaurant in town. Fantastic Ceviche and seafood in general. Somewhat pricey to be in Colombia, but well worth it. 80 Sillas, Cerro de Montserrate
At 3152m, Montserrate Peak towers above the capital of Colombia with a magnificent view of the city and far beyond. You can take the cable car to the top where there is a beautiful church, a small restaurant and souvenir shops. Hotels in BogotaThere are numerous hotels in Bogota, but I personally recommend the Estelar Fontana. You can find surprisingly good deals, especially if staying in the wing to the rear of the hotel known as Estelar Apartamentos that come with an equipped kitchen and living room.It boasts a charming and large courtyard, decent restaurant, wonderful coffee shop and a great bar where you can also have a light meal. Hotel Estelar La Fontana New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |
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