Bogota All, Colombia, South America

Exploring Bogota from A Local’s Perspective As Bogota becomes a major tourist attraction, business owners have tried bringing most of the profits they earn straight to its people. Hotel operators in Candelaria, one of the most historically important areas in this city, have also created a tourism plan that highlights the long-term goals of locals rather than foreign investors. According to Oscar Payan, Head of the Candelaria’s hostel association, “Bogota has a bright future with bigger investments and more tourists pouring in each year.” But Bogota is more than just a place of historical and architectural wonders. In this traditional yet cosmopolitan city, you can visit lesser-known destinations that most tourists take for granted. Here are some of the best activities that you can enjoy during your stay in Bogota. Visit the Gold Museum Even if you’re not fond of museums, The Gold Museum is certainly a must-see. It doesn’t only present beautiful artifacts, but also demonstrates the importance of metal in pre-Hispanic societies in an interactive and enjoyable way. It shows how metal was extracted, transformed and used during the ancient times as a religious and astronomic symbol. The multimedia room in the Offerings exhibit will surely excite you with its thought-provoking displays. Explore Monserrate’s Picturesque Landscapes Once you reach Bogota, you’ll see a majestic green mountain in the east. Enveloped by the tranquility of its church sanctuary, you’ll definitely enjoy every minute you’d spend climbing to Monserrate. Most people visit this area in the morning or after lunch to get a better view of the city. After taking some breath-taking photos of the city, you can wait for the sunset and watch the stars light up while drinking a glass of wine. Stroll Along Usaquen’s Main Plaza Usaquen is especially beautiful during winter, but you’ll surely enjoy its lively spirit no matter what time of the year. It used to be a town in Bogota’s outskirts until it became a stunning plaza surrounded by colonial houses. It is now considered a gastronomic icon because it offers a variety of restaurants for every taste. On Sundays, the plaza turns into a huge flea market that is popular among locals and tourists alike. Go for a Walk in La Candelaria Most people who go to Bogota have already heard about this historically significant area. Those who have seen it for the first time admire its magical beauty. After its colonial buildings were restored, it became a popular place to live in. You can enjoy its stunning architecture while walking through its cobbled streets and stopping by some of the food stalls lining the area. El Chorro de Quevedo, a quaint plaza in Candelaria, is also worth a visit. Who says that you have to push your way through thousands of tourists to enjoy the beauty of Bogota? Instead of basing your itinerary on useless travel guides, use these activities as your passport to Bogota’s hidden wonders.