Bogota | From Behind The Lens..
- Rob Molyneux
- May 21, 2020
- 5 min read
Bienvenido a Bogota!
The 'marmite' of Colombia, and I for one, LOVE marmite (& Bogota!).
Most travellers are unfortunately put off by this cities imperfections, the almost constant dreary weather, chilly climate, soggy socks, inflated touristy prices, and the threat of some potentially dangerous neighbourhoods. To be honest, you can't really blame them, this city isn't for everyone and there will always be places that you visit that just aren't your cup of tea. However, we found that digging a little deeper into this mammoth city, we uncovered a gem, even though it was a rather damp, cloudy gem at that.
Wander through the canvas-like streets of this bustling city gazing at the incredible artwork on show or better yet, join the Bogota Graffiti Tour! This was possibly the best thing that we did in Bogota, and it was free! Well, donations are obviously encouraged and I have to say, hugely deserved. This tour trails through the back streets of Bogota to show you the best artwork that the city has to offer. However, this isn't your ordinary photo opportunistic stroll.. The tour is guided by the street artists themselves, each telling their own personal stories and introducing you to the history of Bogota's street art scene and the struggles that the street art community have had to battle through. Strolling through the cobbled streets, a new piece of artwork catches your eye everywhere that you look, the walls, floors, lamppost's, you name it and I bet there is a piece of art plastered all over it. No matter where it is, or how big or small it is, each have their on story and the guides are incredible at bringing the artwork to life, explaining exactly the significance of each piece. This tour not only wow's you with the talent on show, but it really makes you appreciate the work that goes into creating each and every one of these masterpiece's!
By all means the guides only have a limited time to show you a fraction of the art work on show, but luckily for us the doors never close on this gallery, so you can wander the streets camera in hand until you have had your graffiti fix! Although just remember, you are still in Colombia, be careful and do not wander into any dodgy areas and be mindful not to flash your camera about too much. Speak to your hostel/hotel about what areas to go to and more importantly what areas of the city to avoid. The majority of your time will more than likely be spent in La Candelaria, the main tourist area, but still be careful as with each area there can still be some opportunists knocking about looking to 'make' a quick bit of cash.
Once that you have prised yourself away from the endless canvas, you must take a visit up to the top of Cerro de Monserrate. Towering over the city, standing tall at 3152 metres above sea level, the views from the top are spectacular and you get a sense of the sheer size of this beautiful region! Starting from the bottom there are three different options to choose from.. However before you even think of choosing one of these options, make sure that you choose a good day for it first! These days do not come to often, so as soon as you see a bit of sun without clouds, go for it! No for the options, the first option is also the riskiest, this being to hike to the top. Now although this is free and it will take you roughly around 90 mins up and 90 mins back down, as mentioned earlier, this does come with its potential risks. As with most things in South America, you will read lots of horror stories online, and this isn't any different. There have been many reports of muggings on this trail, so if you do choose to hike, I would recommend to do this on a weekend, to ensure that there are lots of people around you making you less vulnerable. To combat this risk, the trail is now only open between the hours of 5am-1pm, to stop people potentially hiking in the dark, where the risk is increased. Now that the cons are out of the way, the pro's to this are be able to absorb the well needed outdoor nature so close to the major city! There are beautiful views to see along the way, which makes this a tough decision! Your second and third option is to either take the funicular railway or the teleférico (cable car), both are the same price at $21,000 COP / $5.5 USD / £4.4 or $12000 COP / $3.1 USD / £2.5 (one-way). With these both being the same price, I think the best option has to be the cable car, due to the views that you get on the way to the top being so much better than the restricted views from the funicular. Although, if you didn't want to hike all the way, you can choose to buy a one-way ticket and hike back down. Now you're at the top, its time to take in the views! If you are lucky enough to be blessed with good weather, these views really are spectacular from any angle, and do try to see them from ALL angles, have a wander and find that perfect picture! Once you are all viewed out, make sure to visit the picturesque colonial church that is perched on the top, you will no doubt see locals making this trip to the top to visit here to see the Señor Caído (Fallen Christ) and pray.
Now that you have returned to Bogota its time for our favourite things to do.. EAT & DRINK! Bogota has an abundance to choose from, so take your pick! From aromatic coffee shops, quaint little cafes, high standard restaurants, local hole in walls and beer laden bars, you really are spoilt for choice here and we absolutely loved it! Here are a few of our top picks.. Lucha Picante - a tiny hole in the wall 'restaurant' with no more than 6 seats that serves insane quesadilla's and taco's, La Puerta Falsa - a local eatery that serves the must try local dish of Chocolate Santafereno (hot chocolate & cheese..), Sant Just - a French restaurant with an amazing charcuterie board, L' Jaim - an Israeli restaurant with a great selection of Mediterranean dishes, Casu cafe & Tostao cafe - amazing coffee & cakes, Bogota Beer Company (BBC) - sample their many craft beers, although at a steep price.. and there are so many more! Our favourite thing to do is to stumble across as many little gems as possible!
If you are still looking for things to do apart from eat and drink your way around the city, Bogota as an array of museums to visit, Museo de Oro (Gold Museum), Museo Botero (Art Museum dedicated to Fernando Botero) & our personal favourite, Museo de Historico de la Policia (the Police Museum). The Police museum especially was incredible to see, you are guided around by a serving police officer who takes you through the history of this fascinating country and troubles that they have been through, including their fight against the cartels and the war on drugs. I don't want to say too much, just make sure to go see this yourself!
Whether you like it or not, if you are travelling through Bogota I am sure that you will spend some time here, just try to make the most of it and you might just fall in love with its imperfections, just like we did!
Before you visit for yourself, here is a look from behind the lens..
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