Private Paloquemao Market Tour in Bogota with a Local Guide
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
While Maria Jose was traveling the world, the seed of a powerful idea was planted in her mind: to find a way to introduce her fellow travelers to modern Colombia through the country’s culinary richness. Driven by the desire to shake off Colombia’s reputation as a troubled nation and replace it with a new respect for the country’s breathtaking biodiversity, she offers tours at the Paloquemao Market in Bogota to educate guests about local ingredients.
Join Maria Jose for a deep-dive into the exotic world of Colombian fruits and vegetables. She is a passionate advocate for her country’s gastronomy and hopes that through her work she can increase travelers’ understanding of Colombia’s past, present and future. Her goal is to help create local jobs, support good agricultural practices, and help make her country a better place in this new age of peace building.
Available options
Private Paloquemao Market Tour in Bogota with a Local Guide
What's included
Try a few local juices
Private, Guided Tour of Paloquemao Market in Bogota with your Local host, Maris Jose
Taste a wide variety of Colombian fruits: Lulo, granadilla, mangostino, gulupa, guanabana
Try a few local snacks such as Buñuelo, Almojabana
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your host, Maria Jose, at the spectacular Paloquemao Market for an exploration of Colombia’s extensive variety of fruits and vegetables. Maria Jose will lead you through the marketplace on this private Bogotá market tour and introduce you to more than 15 varieties of exotic fruit. From granadilla, to lulo, to mangostino, to gulupa, you will walk from stall to stall tasting the fruits and fruit juices, while learning about local cooking, agriculture and importance of farmers to the Colombian economy. In addition to sampling fruits, you will also taste savory foods sold at the small stalls in the market. Maria Jose might take you to snack on almojábana (Colombian cheese bread), empanadas, sausages, and other local foods for sale. She will also introduce you to local herbs, tropical flowers, and handicrafts.
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the different geographical regions in Colombia and the wide variety of foods eaten throughout the country.
What's not included
Hotel Pick up and drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet Maria Jose at the Davivienda ATM located on Calle 19 (19th Street) at Paloquemao Market. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation. Please contact Maria Jose if you need help with directions. Here is a Google maps link of the location: https://goo.gl/maps/bxerkRGUGQD2
Important notes
Host Name: Maria Jose Caro
Phone No.: +57 317 855 3548
Email Id : eltourdelafruta@gmail.com
Meeting Instructions: Meet Maria Jose at the Davivienda ATM located on Calle 19 (19th Street) at Paloquemao Market. Please contact Maria Jose if you need help with directions. Here is a Google maps link of the location: https://goo.gl/maps/bxerkRGUGQD2
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
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
