Explore Bogota, the "Athens of South America", and experience the Latin American style!
In the northwest of South America, there is a charming city - Bogota. It is the capital of Colombia and is known as the "Athens of South America". It is full of rich historical heritage and unique Latin American style. Come here to embark on a wonderful journey!
📅Best travel time and climate
Bogota has a subtropical plateau climate. Although it is close to the equator, due to its high altitude (2,640 meters), the four seasons are like spring. The average temperature throughout the year is around 13°C, which is very comfortable. However, the temperature difference between day and night is large, ranging from 7°C to 19°C. Remember to bring suitable clothes when traveling. January to February and July to August every year is the dry season, with clear weather and few clouds, making it the best time to travel.
🏛Must-visit attractions
1. Plaza Bolivar: Bogota’s landmark square and the city’s center. In the center of the square stands a statue of Latin American revolutionary Simon Bolivar, surrounded by colorful colonial buildings such as Bogota Cathedral and City Hall. There are many pigeons in the square. You can take pictures and feed the pigeons here to feel the leisurely atmosphere of the place.
2. Monserrate Mountain: A great place to overlook the panoramic view of Bogota. You can choose to take a cable car 🚠 to slowly ascend and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the mountains; or you can challenge yourself to hike up the mountain, passing by various handicraft shops and snack stalls on the way. Once you reach the top of the mountain, visit the white mountaintop Cathedral of Monserrate to admire the exquisite sculptures from the colonial period, and take in the beautiful views of the city from the observation deck.
3. Botero Museum: The works of Fernando Botero, a famous Colombian artist, are exhibited here. The characters and animals he painted are chubby, cute and very interesting. The museum also houses a small number of works by Picasso and other famous artists from various countries, which art lovers should not miss.
4. Gold Museum: The museum with the largest collection of gold artifacts in the world, with more than 34,000 exquisite gold and jade products made by Indians from the 20th century BC to the early 16th century AD, recreating the culture and struggle history of the Indians. Be sure to see the museum's treasure, the Muisca Boat (commonly known as the "Golden Boat").
🍱Special Food
1. Ajiaco: Colombia’s national soup, made with chicken, potatoes, corn and a special kind of herb. It has a rich flavor and a mellow taste. Drinking a bowl of it will warm your whole body.
2. Colombian BBQ: Various meats are grilled over charcoal fire, full of aroma and paired with unique sauces. One bite will give you a full sense of happiness. Recommended dishes include roast beef, roast pork and roast sausages.
3. Arepa: A thin pancake made from corn flour with a soft and sticky texture. It can be paired with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, meat, vegetables, etc. It is one of the favorite street snacks of the locals.
4. Colombian Coffee: Colombia is a world-famous coffee producing area. The coffee here has a rich taste and a fragrant aroma. There are many cafes in the streets and alleys of Bogota. Find one to sit down, taste a cup of authentic Colombian coffee, and enjoy a leisurely time.
🚗Transportation Guide
1. External transportation: You can take an international flight to Bogota's El Dorado International Airport, which is one of the important aviation hubs in South America and has flights from all over the world.
2. Internal transportation:
- Public transportation: Bogota's public transportation mainly includes buses and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). You can apply for a transportation card and add value at the station.
- Taxi: It is convenient to use Didi or Uber to call a taxi, the price is relatively reasonable, and it is safer.
- Car rental: If you want to travel freely, you can also choose to rent a car, but you must pay attention to local traffic rules and road conditions.
📌Travel Tips
1. Security issues: The security situation in Bogota is relatively complicated, especially around some tourist attractions and poor areas. When traveling, be careful to keep your personal belongings safe, do not carry too much cash, and avoid going to remote places with few people. It is recommended to travel with a companion to enhance safety awareness.
2. Altitude sickness: Bogota is at a high altitude, and some tourists may experience altitude sickness, such as headaches and difficulty breathing. If you feel unwell, you should stop and rest immediately, avoid strenuous exercise, and replenish water and oxygen appropriately.
3. Respect local culture: Colombia is a culturally diverse country and we must respect local customs and religious beliefs. When visiting religious places such as churches, please dress appropriately and remain quiet.
4. Visa and Entry: Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports who do not have a Colombian entry visa can enter Colombia with a valid US or Schengen residence permit, other types of US visas except C-1, or C/D Schengen visas. However, on the date of entry into Colombia, the remaining validity period of the relevant visa or residence permit must exceed 180 days, otherwise it will be rejected. Be sure to check visa and entry requirements before traveling.