There was a time in which Colombia had a less than desirable reputation. But despite what you’ve heard about its past, the country has undergone a political, economic, and social revival in the last couple decades that has made it a very attractive destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re seeking adventures in the Amazon rainforest, trying to escape to a remote beach, or craving a cosmopolitan experience, Colombia has a spot for you. But before you reach your destination, your first stop will most likely be the capital — Bogotá.
Nicknamed “the Athens of South America,” Bogotá’s educational institutions have shaped most of the brightest minds in the Republic, so it’s no surprise that the people, along with the city’s history and culture, make it one of my favorite cities to visit. Though I could go on and on about everything I love about this beautiful metropolis, here are my top three reasons why everyone must visit Bogotá.
1. The Food
I actively encourage myself to indulge in all traditional meals and treats from my motherland whenever I’m in Bogotá. Arepas, tamales, empanadas, hot chocolate with melted cheese inside, and freshly brewed Colombian coffee. Bogotan breakfasts never disappoint. If I’m really lucky, my aunt Nury will invite me over for lunch so I can feast on several helpings of ajiaco, a succulently creamy chicken and potato soup served with rice, avocado, heavy cream and capers — an undeniable staple of Bogotan cuisine. And if I get my way, dinner is out at my favorite local restaurant, Crepes & Waffles, or at any food stand on the streets where gigantic hot dogs with crazy toppings are sold.
Even beyond the dinner table, pastries and snacks are sure to hit all the right spots. Choclitos, De Todito, and Mama-ia chocolate-covered, caramel-filled brownies are just a few of my favorite snacks. And local pastries like pan de yuca, pastel de pollo and mojicón con queso y arequipe always make my heart skip a beat. So much yum yum for everyone’s tum tums.
2. The Museums
A country with a history as rich and diverse as that of Colombia is sure to have some of the most fascinating museums in the world. The museums in Bogotá are no exception to this rule.
Grownups might find a fascination for the Botero Museum, an old colonial house showcasing over a hundred pieces authored by world-renowned Colombian figurative artist Fernando Botero, whose signature style “Boterismo” can be easily spotted on all his paintings and sculptures around the world. Younger crowds might be more enthusiastic to spend a day at Maloka, an interactive museum that invites visitors to experience the wonders of science and technology.
But the whole family is sure to enjoy a day at the Museum of Gold, one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country, featuring vast selections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and indigenous pottery and objects. No matter your taste, Bogotá has a museum to feed your curiosity.
3. The Nightlife
There is never a time in which there is nothing to do in Bogotá. By day and by night, the city stays thriving.
If you’re looking for a low-key night out with friends, go out to a groovy neighborhood bar with Colombian-inspired cocktails and live music like El Anónimo in the Suba neighborhood or drink your way through one of the nicest neighborhoods in town at a bar strip known as La Zona T. If you’re like me and you’re always looking to bust some wild moves on a dance floor, head to Bungalow for an upscale nightclub experience.
But if you’re feeling truly edgy and beyond ready for a long night of unexpected fun, spend the night at Theatrón, an old theatre turned into a gay dance club with 13 different dance floors. No matter your music taste, this place has at least one dance floor where you can live your best life. Disclaimer: you might see more than
When you’re planning your next vacation, imagine yourself exploring a global city atop the Andes mountains in the middle of a richly biodiverse country among visitors and residents from all corners of Colombia and the world. Whether you stay for a single night or for a while, Bogotá is sure to leave you wanting more no matter what you do. As we say in Colombia, the only risk in visiting is wanting to stay.
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