Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia, is full of hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. Avoid the tourist areas and queues while getting the most out of Bogotá. Here are some lesser-known attractions that visitors may not have heard of:
Paddleboats in Parque Los Novios:
Within the larger expanse of Parque Simón Bolívar, one of the largest urban parks in Latin America, you can find Parque Los Novios which offers a serene escape with its charming paddleboat rentals. The lake at the heart of this park provides the perfect setting for a leisurely paddle around the waters.
The activity is perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike can rent a choice of kayaks, paddleboats, and regular boats, with choices from 1-4 people, for 30 mins or 1 hour from just 15.000-30.000 Colombian Pesos (€3.50-€7.00). You can enjoy beautiful scenery and spotting local wildlife. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or a fun activity for a group, the paddleboats at Parque Los Novios offer a delightful experience within one of Bogotá's most beloved green spaces.
The Bogotá Botanical Garden:
Officially known as the Jardín Botánico José Celestino Mutis and spanning over 19 hectares, this expansive green space offers a serene retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
Visitors to the garden can explore a diverse collection of over 19,000 plant species, with a special emphasis on Colombia's native flora, via the paths and trails that wind through the park. The garden is meticulously organised into various thematic sections, including the Andean, Amazonian, and Caribbean gardens, each showcasing the unique plant life from these regions of Colombia.
Key highlights include the Orchid House, which features an impressive array of orchid species, and the Cactus Garden, where visitors can marvel at a variety of cacti and succulents. The garden also boasts the Tropical Rainforest exhibit, which simulates a rainforest environment complete with its characteristic humidity and plant diversity.
In addition to its plant collections, the Bogotá Botanical Garden offers educational programmes and workshops aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of botany and conservation.
museo Quinta de Bolívar:
The Casa Museo Quinta de Bolívar, located in Bogotá, is a historical treasure dating back to 1670. Originally a gift to the hermitage of Monserrate, it became a retreat for Simón Bolívar, who received it in 1820 as a gesture of gratitude for his role in Colombia's independence. Though Bolívar inhabited the house for only 423 days, it witnessed significant events in his life, including the establishment of Gran Colombia.
Declared a National Monument in 1975, the museum underwent extensive restoration, recovering its original country house character. Today, it serves as a cultural hub, offering free admission on Wednesdays and the last Sunday of each month, inviting visitors to explore Bolívar's legacy and the rich history of Colombia.
Calle 11 con Carrera 4:
This address is located in La Candelaria, the historical city centre in Bogotá. On this historical street, you will find a number of fascinating cultural activities including Biblioteca Luis Ángel Arango, Museo Casa de Moneda, Museo Botero, Iglesia de la Candelaria, and the, not to be missed, Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia - MAMU.
Insider tip: If you continue on Calle 11 towards the Universidad Externado, head inside on go to the roof, you can get a great view of Bogotá for free. Plus the university has won awards for their gardens so don't forget to walk around the campus and check out the stunning landscaped garden designs.
Plaza La Perseverancia
Nestled in the heart of Bogotá, Plaza La Perseverancia is a culinary haven that offers visitors an authentic taste of Colombian culture. This bustling market, located in the La Perseverancia neighbourhood, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of traditional dishes.
A visit to the Plaza is a sensory delight, with the aroma of freshly prepared food wafting through the air and the lively chatter of vendors and patrons creating an energetic ambience. The market is particularly famous for its traditional Colombian soups, such as ajiaco and sancocho, which are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Plaza La Perseverancia is also a great place to experience the local culture. The market's vendors are known for their friendliness and hospitality, often engaging with visitors to share the stories and traditions behind their dishes. Whether you're a food enthusiast looking to try new flavours or a traveller seeking an authentic cultural experience, Plaza La Perseverancia is a must-visit destination in Bogotá.
Biblioteca Virgilio Barco:
The Virgilio Barco Public Library, in the Teusaquillo district of Bogotá, is a hidden gem surrounded by parks and recreational complexes. Another park within the Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park. Designed by architect Rogelio Salmona and inaugurated in 2001, this stunning library boasts a collection of over 98,000 bibliographic and audiovisual resources. Recognised as an Asset of National Cultural Interest, it serves as a vibrant hub for social and cultural development.
Planetario de Bogotá:
The Planetario de Bogotá is a vibrant cultural and scientific outreach venue integrated into the Instituto Distrital de las Artes (Idartes) since 2012. The planetarium aims to stimulate creativity and interest in science through diverse communication methods and has been recognised for its high-quality programming and content creation. The Planetario offers various educational activities, inviting visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of the universe.
El Chorro de Quevedo:
Chorro de Quevedo, located in Bogotá's La Candelaria neighbourhood, is a historical fountain that marks the spot where Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada is believed to have founded Bogotá in 1538.
The site also served as a vantage point for the Zipa, the chief of the Muisca tribe. In 1832, Father Quevedo built a fountain here, though the original was destroyed in 1896. The plaza features the Hermitage of San Miguel del Príncipe, a chapel reconstructed in 1969, and is known for its vibrant bohemian atmosphere, characterised by colourful street art, artist studios, and local chicha establishments. The site has been featured in films like La Estrategia del Caracol and Diástole y Sístole, adding to its cultural significance.
These are just a few of the many hidden gems that Bogotá has to offer. With a little exploration, visitors can discover the city's many treasures and experience its unique culture and history.
Book a personalised travel planning session and get a customised itinerary for your upcoming trip!
Комментарии