Walking Tour in La Candelaria Bogotá
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us in this amazing free walking tour through Bogotá's downtown district and learn all about the city's history and culture, making friends along the way.
La Candelaria is a creative hot-spot of Bogotá. There’s nothing like it anywhere else in this sprawling city. Art-deco and colonial houses, with baroque churches behind them; the old and the new intermingled in this walking tour Bogotá.
Join one of our guides in the heart of Bogotá and discover what this neighborhood has hidden away. Inscribed in graffiti and mixed in the drinks, you’ll discover Bogotá’s colonial and indigenous past, the roots of Colombian history.
A confluence of culture and conflict can be felt all around, as you follow a trail of graffiti through old city streets. Learn about the impact of Colombian drug trafficking, emerald mafia, and how all lines up with its +50 year old armed conflict. State, drugs, war, guerrillas, trade: a volatile mixture that has often blinded us to the better side of Colombia.
Available options
Walking Tour
Shared Tour: Gran Colombia Tours guide, gastronomic experiences & all-risk insurance.
Walking and Biking Tour
Shared Tours: This option includes, in addition to the walking tour, a biking tour to see that Bogotá is more than just La Candelaria.
What's included
Gastronomic experience
All-risk insurance
Tours Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet new people and our guide at Chorro De Quevedo Square and let him show you what La Candelaria has hidden away.
2
Stop 2
Dive into Bogota’s heart through the old streets of La Candelaria and make friends along the way.
3
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Plazoleta del Rosario
4
Stop 4
Learn there about the complex but quite interesting history of how state, guerrillas, and even drug trafficking lines up with the armed conflict.
5
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Teatro Colon
6
Stop 6
Pass by
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Botero Museum
7
Stop 7
Pass by
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Gold Museum
8
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Plaza de Santander
9
Stop 9
Pass by
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Emerald Museum
10
Stop 10
Pass by
A walk along important spots of the city such as the emblematic Casa de la Moneda
What's not included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Extra purchases
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
151 reviews
5★
124
4★
14
3★
9
2★
3
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
699 reviews
5★
628
4★
50
3★
11
2★
4
1★
6
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately, we will provide an umbrella in case it rains.
Be aware this tour can be in English and Spanish at the same time depending on the group.
Be aware you are paying the tip of the tour in advance.
If you wish, you can add a Bike Tour and enjoy both activities on the same day.
Meeting point
Find us next to the fountain at Chorro de Quevedo Square. Just look for the yellow umbrella!
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
