Bogotá , Colombia

Private Tour: Bogota like a Local

Active

(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour takes place in the historic center of Bogotá, also known as La Candelaria. During the tour you will visit emblematic places and highly appreciated by Bogota citizens, which will make you feel like an inhabitant of Bogotá instead of a tourist.
Your guide will use all of his knowledge of the city to take you through colonial streets and other places of interest, which hold unexpected secrets and have witnessed the transformation of Bogotá. This tour is ideal for those who do not want conventional tours and prefer to know the city hand in hand, more than a guide, from a local adventure partner

Available options

Private Tour: Bogota like a Local

Pickup included

What's included

Gold Museum is closed on Mondays

Entrance tickets and visits inside museums (except Entrance for Quinta de Bolivar Museum)

Cup of Colombian coffee

Botero Museum is closed on Tuesdays.

Public Transportation and Cable Car tickets.

Private excursion with English-Spanish speaking Guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This tour takes place in the historic center of Bogotá, also known as La Candelaria. During the tour you will visit emblematic places and highly appreciated by Bogota citizens, which will make you feel like an inhabitant of Bogotá instead of a tourist. Your guide will use all of his knowledge of the city to take you through colonial streets and other places of interest, which hold unexpected secrets and have witnessed the transformation of Bogotá. This tour is ideal for those who do not want conventional tours and prefer to know the city hand in hand, more than a guide, from a local adventure partner.

Stop 2

Take the funicular or cable car to Monserrate and upon reaching the summit you will be rewarded with stunning views over the sprawling city below and all the way to the peaks of the Andes. From this vantage point, you will be able to get a feel for the different zones from the contemporary high-rise office buildings of the financial district to the terracotta-colored rooftops of Bogota's historical center.

In Chorro de Quevedo you can go back in time and imagine how Bogotá looked like in 1538 when it was founded by Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada.

Stop 4

Know about the work of the master Fernando Botero while visiting the Mueseo Botero and contemplate an art collection of important artists from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Stop 5

Finish the tour in the Plaza de Bolivar where the government buildings are located and walk a bit on the emblematic Carrera 7ma.

Stop 6

The Museum of Gold is an archaeology museum located in Bogotá, Colombia. It is one of the most visited touristic highlights in the country.

Stop 7

The old residence of Simón Bolivar

What's not included

Tips, Personal Expenses.

Entrance for Quinta de Bolivar Museum

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Bogotá

Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes Mountains. Known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and bustling urban life, it offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern sophistication. The city's high altitude and pleasant spring-like climate make it an appealing destination year-round.

Top Attractions

La Candelaria

La Candelaria is Bogotá's historic center, known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's home to museums, churches, and colorful houses.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, museum entry fees vary

Museo del Oro

The Gold Museum is one of the most important museums in Colombia, housing an extensive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and offering insights into the region's indigenous cultures.

Museum 1-2 hours COP 4,000 ($1 USD)

Montserrate

Montserrate is a mountain overlooking Bogotá, offering panoramic views of the city. Visitors can reach the summit by funicular, cable car, or hiking trail.

Nature Half day Funicular: COP 16,000 ($4 USD), Cable car: COP 18,000 ($4.50 USD)

Zona G

Zona G is Bogotá's upscale dining and shopping district, known for its high-end restaurants, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.

Cultural Few hours Varies by establishment

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, and arepa. A must-try for meat lovers.

Lunch Not vegetarian or vegan

Ajiaco

A creamy chicken and potato soup with corn, capers, and guascas herb. A comforting and traditional dish.

Lunch Can be made vegetarian with tofu

Arepa

A versatile cornmeal flatbread that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.

Snack Can be vegetarian or vegan

Bogotá Brewing Company Craft Beer

Bogotá has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering a variety of unique and flavorful beers.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Chingaza National Park Paragliding in Zipaquirá Spa day in Chapinero Coffee tasting in La Candelaria Visiting museums in La Candelaria Attending a concert at Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo Boat tour on Lake Guatavita Skiing in Nevado del Ruiz (seasonal)

Best Time to Visit

December to February, June to August

These months offer the best weather with lower rainfall and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F) 54°F to 70°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bogotá has made significant improvements in safety in recent years, but it's still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in certain areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less touristy areas
• Use reputable transportation services, such as app-based taxis or official tour operators
• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

El Dorado International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal de Transportes de Bogotá

Getting around

Public transport

TransMilenio is Bogotá's primary public transport system, consisting of a network of bus rapid transit (BRT) lines and feeder buses. It is efficient but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

La Candelaria Chapinero Usaquén

Day trips

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral

48 km (30 miles) from Bogotá • Half day

The Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral is an underground Roman Catholic church built within the tunnels of a salt mine. It's a unique and awe-inspiring attraction that offers a glimpse into Colombia's mining history.

Villa de Leyva

150 km (93 miles) from Bogotá • Full day

Villa de Leyva is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic plazas. It's a popular day trip destination for those looking to explore Colombia's colonial past.

Lake Guatavita

50 km (31 miles) from Bogotá • Half day

Lake Guatavita is a scenic lake known for its association with the legend of El Dorado. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, learn about its history, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Festivals

Bogotá International Book Fair • April Bogotá Festival of Theater • June

Pro tips

Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Visit the Museo del Oro early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions
Try the local street food, such as empanadas, arepas, and chorizos, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Take a day trip to the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral or Lake Guatavita for a unique and unforgettable experience