Bogota´s Gastronomic Wonders - Experience the best traditional food

Bogotá , Colombia

Bogota´s Gastronomic Wonders - Experience the best traditional food

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(30 reviews)

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About this experience

Explore the vibrant heart of Bogotá on this enriching culinary journey. Delve into Colombia's diverse culture and history as you walk through its historic neighborhoods, tasting iconic regional dishes and experiencing the unique blend of architectural styles. From traditional empanadas to controversial chocolate with cheese, each flavor tells a story of Colombia's rich heritage. This tour is part of our H.E.A.R.T. Experiences at Impulse Travel.

Available options

Gastronomic Wonders Bogotá

What's included

Designated meals and snacks

Expert guide in the language of your preference (Spanish, English)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

To begin, you’ll meet with your guide at Origen Bistro Restaurant before moving on to “La Perseverancia” food market, a place created by the working-class people at the beginning of the XX century.

There you’ll feel the typical atmosphere of a traditional Colombian food market as you talk to traditional cooks and locals, and try delicious fruits.

You’ll then walk all over La Macarena neighborhood, which was Bogotá’s bohemian area in the mid-XXth century. Nowadays, this area has been transformed into a recognizable zone of international restaurants and art galleries.

Stop 4

Afterward, you’ll walk along the 7th street to enjoy the “Septimazo”, a very diverse path where you'll find street artists, singers, food karts and handicrafts, and will also identify some of the iconic buildings of the area.

You’ll stop at the traditional “La Florida Bakery”, to taste delicious pastries and a hot beverage like Aguapanela or hot santafereño chocolate with cheese.
Heading southeast, you’ll appreciate downtown’s transformation with the new cultural, commercial and residential students buildings in contrast to colonial and republican constructions, before tasting an artisanal ice-cream made out of Amazonic exotic fruits.

Stop 5

Next, you’ll walk through La Candelaria historic district to enjoy a savory meal at a colonial restored house, where you can taste and see recipes from different regions of the country.

At last, you’ll visit an indigenous store, where you’ll have the chance to taste some coca leaf products and have a chat with an indigenous woman from the Embera’s group. She’ll explain to you why Coca is not Cocaine and why it is a fundamental part of indigenous nutrition and a sacred plant. You’ll also get to know more about how they’ve struggled to preserve indigenous culture, economy, and traditions as they’ve faced conflicts with narcos, industry and the government.

What's not included

Optional tips and gratuities

Lunch

Personal expenses

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Transportation between sites

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 10 years

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes

Meeting point

Origen Bistro Restaurant

Important notes

• Note: Please email Impulse Travel at info@impulsetravel.co to confirm your pickup time or meeting point.

° The price you paid for the service does not include 19% V.A.T. This benefit only applies to foreigners entering as tourists, so it is necessary that you send us as proof a copy of your passport and the photo of the entry stamp to the country. As required by the national tax authority.

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