5 Top Activities in Bogotá

Wandervogel123 Florian
Oct 20
11 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Are you currently in Bogotá? Then these 5 top activities in Bogotá are perfect for you!

Based on the most popular and best-rated offerings from GetYourGuide, as well as the region's top sights, the top 5 activities in Bogotá can be summarized as follows:

1. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá (Day Trip)

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá (Catedral de Sal de Zipaquirá) is one of the most impressive religious and architectural marvels in Colombia and a very popular day trip from Bogotá. It is located approximately 50 kilometers north of the capital in the municipality of Zipaquirá.

The Experience: A Cathedral Underground

The Salt Cathedral is no ordinary place of worship; it is an entirely rock salt-hewn church complex situated 180 meters (nearly 600 feet) underground in a former salt mine.

The Stations of the Cross (Vía Crucis) The visit begins with a descent through the mine's tunnels. Along the way, 14 small chapels are carved into the salt rock, each representing one of the Stations of the Cross of Jesus Christ. These chapels are often artistically illuminated, creating a mystical and contemplative atmosphere.
The Dome and the Main Naves At the end of the Stations of the Cross, the mine opens up into a colossal vault, which forms the central cathedral. This massive space can accommodate thousands of people. The entire architecture, from the pillars to the arches, is carved out of the salt body. In the main nave stands a monumental, 16-meter (52-foot) high cross. The unique lighting (often in changing colors) emphasizes the salt textures and the dimensions of the underground space.
Additional Attractions Many tours include standard admission, which covers the cathedral and other elements of the mine:
3D Film: A short presentation on the mine’s history, geology, and the construction of the cathedral.
Brine Museum (Solemuseum): A small museum dedicated to salt extraction and the history of the region.
Commercial Zone: The mine also features shops and a Rocódromo (climbing wall) for additional adventures.

Organizing a Day Trip from Bogotá

The Salt Cathedral is almost always done as a half- or full-day trip from Bogotá.

Duration: The pure visit to the cathedral (with audio guide) should take about 2 to 3 hours. Including travel to and from Bogotá, the excursion typically takes 6 to 8 hours.
Transportation: The drive from Bogotá to Zipaquirá takes about 1 to 1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic.
- Organized Tours (Recommended): Most tours from operators like GetYourGuide include convenient round-trip transportation from/to your accommodation in Bogotá with a driver/guide.
- Individual Travel: Independent travel is possible via public buses from Bogotá's Terminal del Norte.
Combinations: Since Zipaquirá is easily accessible, the visit is often combined with other nearby attractions, particularly the Laguna de Guatavita (see Top Activity 2).

Important Visitor Notes

Temperature: The mine maintains a consistently cool temperature (approx. 14°C or 57°F). A light jacket or sweater is advisable.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through the mine.
Altitude: Zipaquirá is situated at about 2,650 meters (8,695 feet), similar to Bogotá.
Zipaquirá Town: Most organized tours include a brief stop to explore the charming main square and the colonial architecture of the town itself.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package tours to Colombia here on Check24!*

2. Guatavita Lake and the Legend of El Dorado (Combined Tour)

The excursion to Guatavita Lake (Laguna de Guatavita) is an ideal combination of a nature experience, indigenous history, and one of the world's most famous legends, the tale of El Dorado.

The Muisca Sanctuary

Laguna de Guatavita, about a two-hour drive from Bogotá, is an almost perfectly circular crater lake situated high in the Andes mountains.

The Legend of El Dorado: Instead of a golden city, the original legend of "El Dorado" ("the Gilded One") refers to a ritualistic ceremony. The lake was a sacred site for the indigenous Muisca culture. The newly appointed Muisca king would cover himself in gold dust, travel to the center of the lake on a raft, and there, along with his entourage, sink countless offerings of gold and precious stones into the water for the gods. This myth fueled the gold lust of the Spanish conquistadors, who attempted to drain the lake for centuries.

The Muisca Raft: The most famous archaeological find from the lake, the Muisca Raft—which depicts the coronation ceremony—is now a centerpiece of the Gold Museum in Bogotá.

The Tour Experience

Tours to Guatavita Lake are usually offered as a full-day excursion from Bogotá and typically include the following components:

1. The Hike to the Lagoon

After the drive from Bogotá, the actual experience begins. The lake itself is located within a protected natural park. Visitors may only enter the lagoon area accompanied by a local, official guide in order to protect the ecology and the historical site.

The path from the entrance to the lagoon is a moderate climb (often via steps) that can be demanding due to the high altitude (over 3,000 meters).

During the guided hike (often about 1.5 to 2 hours), visitors learn detailed information about the Muisca rituals, the legend of El Dorado, and the unique ecology of the Andean páramo (highland ecosystem).

Once at the top, a spectacular view of the emerald-green, circular lake awaits.

2. Visit to New Guatavita (Guatavita la Nueva)

The tour often includes a visit to the nearby town of Guatavita. The original colonial town was flooded in the 1960s to construct the Tominé Reservoir and was replaced by a modern, architecturally appealing planned town.

The "new" town of Guatavita is characterized by its white, colonial-style architecture and offers an opportunity for a stroll, buying handicrafts, or having a traditional lunch.

3. The Popular Combination: Guatavita & Salt Cathedral

Since both locations are situated to the north of Bogotá and the Guatavita-only tour takes only about 6–8 hours, many providers offer a full-day combination that includes both the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and the Laguna de Guatavita. This option maximizes time for travelers who wish to experience both top sights in a single outing.

Important Visitor Notes

Altitude: The lagoon is located at an elevation of over 3,000 meters (approx. 10,000 feet). Walking slowly and acclimatizing are crucial to prevent symptoms of altitude sickness.
Gear: Sturdy footwear for the hike and weatherproof clothing (rain jacket and warm sweater) are essential, as the weather in the Andes can change quickly.
Closed on Mondays: Laguna de Guatavita is generally closed to visitors on Mondays (unless it falls on a public holiday). Travelers should plan their itinerary accordingly.
Plastic Ban: To protect the ecosystem, carrying plastic bottles is often prohibited within the park.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package tours to Colombia here on Check24!*

3. Historic City Tour (La Candelaria, Gold and Botero Museums)

The historic city tour through Bogotá focuses on the heart of the city, the La Candelaria district and its famous museums, and is the best way to immerse yourself in the complex history and culture of Colombia.

The Historic Center: La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the colonial and historical center of Bogotá, serving as a vibrant open-air museum. It is characterized by:

Colonial Architecture: Narrow, cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial houses featuring wooden balconies.
Graffiti and Street Art: The district is a hub of urban art, with many murals containing political and social commentary.
Key Squares and Buildings:
- Plaza de Bolívar: The city's main square, surrounded by the Primary Cathedral, the National Capitol, the Palace of Justice, and the Liévano Palace (City Hall). This is the political and religious heart of Colombia.
- Chorro de Quevedo: A small square considered the founding site of Bogotá. It is a popular meeting point for students and travelers and a good place to try Chicha (a traditional corn beverage).

The Top Museums

Two of the country's most important museums are centrally located and easily accessible on foot.

1. The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)

The Gold Museum is one of Bogotá’s most visited attractions and houses the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian gold work.

Exhibits: Over 55,000 pieces of gold, ceramics, stone, and textiles created by indigenous cultures such as the Muisca, Calima, and Tairona.
Significance: It not only displays the exquisite craftsmanship of the indigenous peoples but also explains the spiritual significance of gold (which often served as a connection to the gods in these cultures, rather than purely as a commodity).
El Dorado Connection: The famous Muisca Raft is exhibited here, which represents the "El Dorado" ceremony performed at the Laguna de Guatavita.

2. The Botero Museum (Museo Botero)

Located in a beautiful colonial building, the museum houses the collection donated to the public by Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero.

Artworks: Botero is globally renowned for his characteristic style, in which he depicts all figures and objects as voluminous and exaggerated. The collection includes both his own paintings and sculptures as well as his private collection of international art.
International Collection: Works by masters such as Monet, Picasso, Renoir, and Dalí can also be seen here.
Admission: Entry to the Botero Museum (and often the nearby Mint Museum) is generally free.

Important Notes for the City Tour

Duration: A combined tour (La Candelaria, Gold Museum, Botero Museum) typically lasts 4 to 6 hours. Many travelers often book this excursion in combination with Monserrate Hill (see Top Activity 4) as a full-day program.
Free Walking Tours: Bogotá is known for its "Free Walking Tours" in La Candelaria (tip-based), which provide an excellent overview of history, politics, and street food. Museums are often only "pass-by" stations or optional additional visits.
Safety: The historic center is busy during the day. Nevertheless, special caution should be exercised regarding pickpockets (often referred to as "Don't give papaya"). At night, it is advisable to take taxis in La Candelaria instead of walking.
Closing Days: The Gold Museum is usually closed on Mondays. The Botero Museum is closed on some days (often Tuesdays), although the historical walk is possible at any time.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package tours to Colombia here on Check24!*

4. The Bogotá Bike Tour

The Bogotá Bike Tour is one of the most popular and dynamic ways to get to know the vast Colombian capital, as Bogotá is considered one of the most bicycle-friendly major cities in Latin America.

The Route and Highlights

A typical guided bicycle tour in Bogotá (approx. 4–5 hours) often leads away from the purely tourist trails, focusing on conveying an authentic feel for the city and its inhabitants. The routes are usually relatively flat, with only a few minor inclines.

Key stops on a tour typically include:

Historic Center (La Candelaria): The starting point, with a visit to squares like Chorro de Quevedo and Plaza de Bolívar (at least from a distance or nearby).
Street Art / Graffiti: Bogotá is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. Tours often pass through neighborhoods featuring the most impressive and politically charged murals.
Food and Fruit Markets: A highlight is often a visit to a traditional market (such as the Palo Quemao Market), where visitors can taste exotic fruits native to Colombia.
Coffee Culture: A visit to a small, local coffee roasting house (Fábrica de Café) to learn about the coffee-making process and sample a cup of the famous Colombian coffee.
Parks and Avenues: Passing through important green spaces and boulevards like the National Park and the Parkway Boulevard.
Sport and Tradition: Viewing the Bullring (Plaza de Toros) and perhaps a break to play Tejo, the traditional Colombian national sport (which involves hitting gunpowder triangles embedded in clay with a metal weight).

The Special Feature: The Ciclovía (Sunday Bike Ride)

Bogotá is globally famous for its unique weekend concept: the Ciclovía.

What is the Ciclovía? Every Sunday and on public holidays, the city's main traffic arteries and highways are closed to car traffic from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm and are exclusively opened for bicycles, runners, skaters, and walkers.
The Experience: This is the best time to explore Bogotá by bike. On the Ciclovía, you can safely and leisurely experience the true spirit of the Bogotanos over more than 120 kilometers.
Sunday Tours: Many bike tour operators utilize the Ciclovía to offer travelers an even safer and more comprehensive experience of the city, often covering more neighborhoods (e.g., reaching north to Usaquén).

Important Notes

Difficulty: Tours are generally rated as easy, but it is an urban tour with traffic (except on Sundays during the Ciclovía).
Equipment: Bicycles and helmets are usually included in the tour price.
Safety: Guided tours safely navigate cyclists through traffic and utilize the city's well-developed bike paths (Ciclorrutas).
Tip: The bike tour is ideal for exploring the city on your first or second day, as it provides a quick overview of Bogotá's geography, history, and culture.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package tours to Colombia here on Check24!*

5. Monserrate Bogotá (Visit to the Summit)

The Cerro de Monserrate is arguably the most famous and most visited mountain in Bogotá and an absolute must-see. The visit offers spectacular views of the entire city and is both a religious pilgrimage site and an important tourist destination.

The Mountain and its Elevation

Elevation: The summit lies at an elevation of approximately 3,152 meters (10,341 feet) above sea level.
View: From the top, you have an unparalleled panoramic view of Bogotá's gigantic sprawl, which is particularly breathtaking in the late afternoon or at sunset.

Getting to the Summit

There are three ways to reach the peak:

Cable Car (Teleférico): The fastest and most modern option. The cabins offer great views during the ride.
Funicular (Funicular): Another option that travels up the steep slope. It is particularly popular in the morning.
Walking Trail (Sendero Peatonal):
- Duration: The ascent generally takes 1 to 2 hours (approx. 1600 steps).
- Altitude Note: Due to Bogotá's elevation and the steep climb, the hike can be very strenuous and should only be attempted by acclimated individuals with good fitness.
- Opening Hours: The walking trail belongs to the city and is often only open from Sunday to Sunday from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM for ascending (closed on Tuesdays for maintenance). Safety: It is strongly recommended to use the trail only during the day and when it is officially open by the city administration.

Highlights at the Summit

Pilgrimage Church (Santuario): The main attraction is the Basilica El Señor Caído (The Fallen Lord), an important pilgrimage site for Catholic faithful who venerate the image of the crucified Christ.
Restaurants and Markets: There are several restaurants at the top (including some with fine dining and spectacular views) as well as stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Colombian food and drinks.
Stations of the Cross (Vía Crucis): Statues representing the Stations of the Cross are set up along the path from the entrance to the church.

Key Tips for Visiting

Altitude Sickness: Due to the altitude, some visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, shortness of breath). Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol.
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekdays: Less crowded than on weekends.
- Sundays: Particularly busy as many Colombian pilgrims attend Mass.
- Mornings: Visibility is often clearer before the smog settles over the city.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: For the best view of the sunset and the city lights, but be aware of the cable car's later operating hours.
Weather and Clothing: It can get very cold, windy, and foggy at this altitude. Dress warmly and bring a rain jacket.
Safety: The area around the Monserrate base station, as a busy city center, is known for pickpocketing. Pay close attention to your valuables and avoid attracting attention with visible jewelry or cameras (the Colombian warning: "No dar papaya" – "Don't give papaya"). It is best to take a taxi or an app-driven ride (Uber, Didi) for arrival and departure.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package tours to Colombia here on Check24!*

A concluding summary of the 5 top activities in Bogotá:

Bogotá, as the vibrant and culturally rich capital of Colombia, offers a fascinating blend of history, art, and breathtaking nature. Any visit inevitably starts in the historical heart of the city, La Candelaria, where colonial alleys, colorful houses, and the magnificent Plaza de Bolívar breathe the country's history, with the surrounding government buildings and the cathedral forming an impressive architectural ensemble. Complementary to this, visitors delve into the world-famous museum scene, especially the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), which houses one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian gold work worldwide and offers a deep insight into Colombia's indigenous cultures, and the Museo Botero, where the iconic "chubby" sculptures and paintings of the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero, as well as works by international masters, can be admired. For a comprehensive overview of the gigantic metropolis, a trip to Cerro de Monserrate is essential; the over 3,000-meter-high mountain, which can be climbed by cable car, funicular, or on foot, offers a panoramic view of the city, crowned by an important pilgrimage church. Finally, Bogotá's unique cycling culture is a special experience, with a bike tour through the city exploring the lively graffiti art scene, local markets, and coffee factories—ideally on Sunday, when the famous Ciclovía opens up large parts of the main streets for cyclists. These five activities—the historic center, the Gold Museum, the Botero Museum, Monserrate Mountain, and the bike tour—summarize the essence of the Bogotá experience.