Bogotá

August 1, 2025

If I’m honest, I had no idea what I was getting myself into by venturing to South America. I was heavily warned about the dangers of Colombia by people that never went there. The irony writes itself. I was accompanied by one of my girlfriend’s on this trip and we had no uncomfortable or unsafe moments throughout our 2 week visit. It should be noted that neither of us had been to South America prior.

The beauty of this country was reflected indulgently in every corner through culture, landscape and even its restaurant decor. You do not need to plan for 2 weeks here, I was going for a cosmetic procedure as it was more budget-friendly for me.

If you are not conversationally fluent in Spanish, I recommend learning the basics before your visit as English is not the main language spoken (I actually recommend this tip for every country you plan to visit that may not predominantly use your native language).

Large white sign reading 'Bogotá' with a yellow sculpture on top, surrounded by tall palm trees and greenery outdoors.

Where to Stay

We stayed around at this Airbnb with a stunning view, convenient walking location, secure building, and restaurant on site.

Getting Around

Ubering is by far the best and safest way of travel here, though walking is a great option for closer amenities. Note: it is very common for roads to close on Sundays from 7AM-2PM encouraging the community to freely wander the streets via walking or biking.

What to Do

A few blocks from Parque 93 (Avenida Calle 85 and Carrera 13) has great shopping centers from Zara to American Eagle to Colombia-exclusives such as Studio F. Essentially, Bogota is a shopper’s dream.

An unforgettable experience was horseback riding in the Andes Mountains with local guides and easy pick up/ drop off. Plan for a full day with this excursion as it is a rather long drive and riding horses for multiple hours tired us out.

Of course you can’t miss the chance to indulge in Colombia’s incredible cuisine culture, and what better way to do it than with a food tour from a local. Prepare for a good bit of walking with this tour as well. For additional local experiences, the Usaquen Market is a phenomenal spot to support small businesses.

Looking to touch grass? The Jardin Botanico de Bogota is 19.5 acres of serene tropics with plant species from every Colombian climate, altitude, and region. There is also the infamous panoramic views from Mount Monserrate — acrophobics beware.

Where to Eat

Some of our most notable dining experiences are as listed in no particular order with some recommended dishes:

  • Azahar Cafe - avocado toast

  • Le Grand

  • Andres - cheese arepas, tres leches

  • Storia D’amore - stuffed pumpkin flowers

  • BB Banana Bread

  • Cafe Rico

  • Malaflor - ceviche

A drink with a grapefruit slice and flower, two small jars of sauces or condiments, and a plate with small appetizers topped with red flowers on a stone serving dish.
A woman crouching on train tracks surrounded by orange flowers with city buildings and hills in the background during overcast weather.
A dinner table with two bowls of green salad, a plate of sliced meat with sauce, a crepe with a side of cream, and two glasses of water, set on a wooden table.
Three people riding horses on a trail in a scenic outdoor setting with trees, grass, mountains, and a lake in the background.
Fried zucchini blossoms garnished with edible flowers and cherry tomatoes on a decorative white plate
Scenic view of a river surrounded by lush green hills and dense vegetation under a sky with large, white clouds.
A table set with seafood risotto in a skillet, two glasses of pink cocktails, a glass of water, a salad on a white plate, and partially visible hands holding a fork with lemon in the background.
Cityscape with trees and a red brick wall in the foreground, and modern buildings against a partly cloudy sky in the background.
A black plate with a salad containing sliced radishes, greens, and edible flowers, topped with a yellow bowl of crispy plantain chips. Surrounding the plate are glasses and cups with drinks on a wooden table.
Large white sign spelling out 'BOGOTÁ' with a yellow abstract sculpture on top, surrounded by tall palm trees and lush greenery in an outdoor park setting.
A meal on a wooden table with two plates of food, a small bowl of salad, a small bowl of mashed potatoes, and glasses of dark soda.
A panoramic view of a cityscape from a high vantage point with a cloudy sky and some sunset light in the distance. There are buildings, skyscrapers, and green trees in the foreground.
Top-down view of a table with waffles, fruit salad, chocolate baked good, coffee, water bottles, and a person using a phone.
Colorful street scene with pedestrians, motorcycles, and vibrant murals on buildings, including a yellow restaurant called "Diamato" with red awnings and decorative artwork, under a partly cloudy sky with mountains in the background.
A table with various Middle Eastern dishes including a bowl of lamb and couscous, a basket of flatbread, a small salad, and a large bowl of beef and vegetable stew, along with drinks, condiments, and dining utensils.
Three black steam buns filled with meat and topped with microgreens, edible flowers, and colorful sauces, served on a round bamboo steamer.
Looking up at the inside of a glass-domed conservatory filled with lush green tropical plants and vines.