The Soul of an Urban Metropolis
Bogotá is a city of contrasts—rich in history, modern energy, and artistic expression. From the colonial charm of La Candelaria to the raw energy of Ciudad Bolívar, each barrio tells a different story.
Street art here is more than decoration—it’s a voice of protest, culture, and transformation. We dive deep into the city, exploring neighborhoods few tourists ever see, meeting local artists, vendors, and residents who shape its unique character.
Beyond the well-known sights, we uncover Bogotá’s raw, unfiltered essence—one street, one story at a time.
A Sunday of Art, Flavors & Music
A sunny day in Bogotá leads us to the Usaquén Flea Market, a vibrant Sunday event filled with crafts, street food, and live music. The streets, lined with cozy cafés and international restaurants, come alive by midday. A visit to El Mediterráneo wraps up the day with a perfect meal.
La Candelaria: Always a Pleasure
La Candelaria, Bogotá's vibrant historic heart, perpetually draws me back. Each visit reveals new facets, shifting with the time of day, week, and weather. Its colorful colonial homes, captivating graffiti, and lively street scene, set against the city's modern skyline, create an endless feast for the eyes. It's a place of enduring fascination, a promise of new discoveries with every return.
In the Heart of Bogotá: A New Normal
Bogotá feels transformed. Once vibrant streets are now quiet, shaped by pandemic restrictions. Masks are everywhere, discipline prevails. My hotel stay feels surreal—am I the only guest? Yet, a warm welcome and a bowl of ajiaco in Tierra Buena remind me: I’ve arrived once more.
A ride on the TransMiCable cable car over Ciudad Bolívar.
Today, I venture into Bogotá's vibrant, yet challenging, Ciudad Bolívar via the TransMiCable. From above, the kaleidoscope of colorful houses and street life captivates, offering a panoramic view of the sprawling metropolis. Yet, this beauty masks the profound realities of poverty and struggle, making the cable car ride a deeply moving experience that offers a crucial insight into daily life in this complex district.
Ciclovía: Bogotá’s Sunday Transformation
A rainy Sunday morning in Bogotá reveals a surprising spectacle: Ciclovía. Over 120 kilometers of city streets transform into a vibrant haven for cyclists and pedestrians, bustling with market stalls and street performers. Amidst the joyful chaos, I discover the city's stark contrasts and the enduring spirit of its people, all culminating in a poignant moment of dance that captures the soul of Bogotá.
Bogotá in May 2021
After five months in Colombia, my departure coincides with a nation in turmoil. Bogotá, normally vibrant, becomes a city on edge as massive protests erupt against government reforms. Witnessing the calm before the storm, then escalating street battles and unimaginable brutality, I navigate a city transformed, leaving with a profound sense of anxiety for my friends amidst the chaos.
Back to Bogotá: Traveling in Pandemic Times
A chilling silence descends upon Germany's rush hour as I embark on a pandemic-era journey to Bogotá. Frankfurt Airport, once bustling, now stands eerily deserted, revealing the stark reality of global travel restrictions. Yet, amidst the tension, a fortunate encounter on the plane promises to turn an oppressive atmosphere into an entertaining adventure back to Colombia.
La Candelaria – The Historical and Cultural Center of Bogotá and Colombia
Step into Bogotá's vibrant past at La Candelaria, starting from the iconic Plaza de Bolívar. This historical and cultural heart beats with tales of independence, art, and intellectual discourse. Explore cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, world-class museums, and discover hidden culinary gems. Immerse yourself in the unique charm where every colorful doorway whispers stories of bygone eras and the spirit of Colombia truly comes alive.