Bogota Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Protected Areas and Conservation

Bogotá is near several Páramo ecosystems (e.g., Chingaza, Sumapaz), which are vital for water regulation and biodiversity.

Support Conservation

Support conservation by going to responsibly and following park rules.
The Jardín Botánico actively participates in plant conservation efforts.
Local initiatives protect unique flora and fauna.

Waste Management and Recycling

Recycling infrastructure is present in Bogotá but is not as comprehensive as in some developed countries.

Reduce Your Waste

Reduce waste by using reusable water bottles and shopping bags.
Avoid single-use plastics where possible during your visit.
Find reusable products at Package Free Shop.

Water Conservation Issues

Water is a precious resource, notably from the Páramo ecosystems that feed the city. Be mindful of your water usage during your stay.

Conscious Water Use

Take shorter showers and don't leave faucets running when not in use.
Report any leaks to your accommodation staff promptly.
Back local projects focused on water protection.

Carbon Offset Options

Consider purchasing carbon offsets for your flights to mitigate your environmental footprint.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Offset your flight emissions with Terrapass.
Choose eco-friendly tour operators that prioritize reducing their footprint.
Outfit your adventure with sustainable gear from Patagonia.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation and Tour Operators

Accommodation Options

Look for accommodations with sustainability certifications or practices.
These consist of energy efficiency, waste reduction, and local sourcing.
Book eco-friendly stays through platforms like Ecobnb.
Inquire about green initiatives directly with the place you are staying.

Tour Operator Choices

Choose tour operators that promote responsible tourism.
Select companies that show respect for natural environments.
Consider ethical adventure tours with G Adventures.
Aid in conservation with The Rainforest Site.

Eco-Conscious Travel

Your travel choices influence Bogotá's environment. Embrace sustainable practices to preserve its unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.

Cultural Sensitivity

Embrace Bogotá's culture with respectful interactions and an open mind.

Cultural Preservation

Support local artisans and cultural institutions that work to preserve Colombian heritage and traditions.

Respectful Interaction

Learning basic Spanish phrases goes a long way. Be open-minded and patient in your interactions with locals.

Photography Ethics

Always ask permission before photographing individuals, children in particular. Be mindful of privacy in residential areas.

Religious Site Etiquette

Be reverent when visiting sacred places like churches and cathedrals.

Guidelines

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Maintain quiet and respectful behavior.
Turn off phone notifications to avoid disturbance.

Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing certain subjects to ensure respectful interactions.

Considerations

Avoid expressing strong opinions on local politics.
Drugs are strictly illegal; avoid any involvement.
Glorifying "Pablo Escobar tourism" is disrespectful to victims.

Ethical Tourism

Conscious Travel

Avoid "voluntourism" that may displace local jobs.
Do not engage in activities that exploit animals or people.

Giving Back

Donate through established, reputable local NGOs or charities.
Avoid giving directly to panhandlers, which can perpetuate poverty cycles.
Direct giving may contribute to child exploitation.

Mindful Travel

Respect for local traditions and communities enriches your experience and fosters a positive impact in Bogotá.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices directly benefit Bogotá's local economy and communities.

Community-Based Tourism

Seek out tours or moments that directly benefit local communities.

Local Support

Consider staying in locally owned guesthouses.
This approach channels money directly to residents.
Support projects that empower local entrepreneurs.

Fair Trade and Ethical Shopping

Purchase crafts and products from certified fair-trade organizations or directly from artisans.

Ethical Sourcing

Inquire about the origin and production of goods.
Ensure responsible sourcing and fair compensation for creators.
Look for certifications that guarantee fair practices.

Supporting Local Businesses

Dine at neighborhood eateries, shop at local markets, and hire local guides.

Direct Local Contribution

Your money directly supports residents.
This approach helps sustain their source of income and the community.
Discover unique products and experiences.

Responsible Practices

Avoid "voluntourism" that may displace local jobs or not genuinely benefit communities.

Ethical Choices

Do not engage in activities that exploit animals or people.
Research organizations thoroughly before participating in any volunteer program.

Charitable Giving Guidelines

Appropriate Donations

If you wish to donate, do so through established, reputable local NGOs or charities.
Research bodies to ensure your contribution has a positive impact.
Look for transparency reports and community engagement records.

Avoid Direct Giving

Avoid giving directly to panhandlers.
Direct giving can perpetuate cycles of poverty rather than addressing root causes.
It may also inadvertently contribute to child exploitation.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Support Artisans

Purchase authentic crafts directly from local artisans.
Visit craft markets like Usaquén to find one-of-a-kind goods.
Ensure purchases are fairly traded to support communities.

Cultural Institutions

Visit local places with art and history that showcase Colombian art and history.
Attend local performances and cultural events.
Explore libraries and cultural centers for insights.

Smart Spending

Conscious spending in Bogotá genuinely supports the local economy and communities, encouraging a positive legacy from your visit.

Time-Based Itineraries

Tailor your Bogotá visit with these suggested itineraries, from quick layovers to in-depth explorations.

-Hour Layover Highlights

Make the most of a brief visit with attractions concentrated in the city center.

Suggested Plan

Morning: Take the cable railway or cable car up Monserrate for panoramic city views.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Ajiaco soup in an iconic restaurant in La Candelaria.
Afternoon: Explore the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum in the historic center.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Experience Bogotá's core attractions and neighborhoods over a short break.

Day 1 Focus

Arrive and check into your accommodation in La Candelaria.
Afternoon: Visit Plaza de Bolívar, take a La Candelaria walking tour, and explore the Gold Museum.
Evening: Enjoy dinner and drinks in La Candelaria or Zona G.

Day 2 Weekend Getaway

Continue your exploration with iconic views and street art.

Cultural & Art Immersion

Morning: Ride to the top of Monserrate for stunning city views.
Afternoon: Visit the Botero Museum and take a graffiti tour of La Candelaria.
Evening: Head to Zona T or Zona G for dinner and drinks.

Day 3 Weekend Getaway

Conclude your weekend with a market experience or last-minute exploration.

Markets & Departure

Morning: Visit Paloquemao Market (early) or Usaquén Flea Market (Sunday).
Afternoon: Depart from Bogotá, or continue exploration based on flight times.
Ensure adequate time for getting to/from the airport.

Longer Stays

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

Deep dive into Bogotá, explore museums, culinary experiences, and take a day trip to the Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita.

Explore 7-Day Tours

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Combine the one-week itinerary with a 5-7 day extension to another region or an overnight trip to Villa de Leyva.

Find Multi-Day Adventures

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

Rent an apartment in Chapinero, Usaquén, or Teusaquillo for a more local living experience. Engage in Spanish language classes with Rosetta Stone.

Learn Spanish

Plan Your Adventure

Bogotá offers experiences from quick layovers to in-depth explorations. Choose the pace that suits your travel style and interests.

Bogota Travel Tips