How to Plan Your 3 Day Tour in Bogota: City Tour, Salt Cathedral, Guatavita Lagoon, and Villa De Leyva

How to Plan Your 3 Day Tour in Bogota: City Tour, Salt Cathedral, Guatavita Lagoon, and Villa De Leyva

Are you considering a trip to Bogota? Or, perhaps you’ve already decided to go and are now looking for a comprehensive tour of the city and its surrounding areas. Look no further than the 3 Day Tour Bogota City Tour, Salt Cathedral, Guatavita Lagoon, and Villa De Leyva. This tour provides an immersive experience of the most popular attractions in the region. Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip.

Day 1: Bogota City Tour

Your first day will be spent exploring Colombia’s vibrant and bustling capital city. This tour begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle. Your expert guide will take you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including:
  • Plaza de Bolivar
  • La Candelaria
  • Monserrate
  • Gold Museum
  • Botero Museum
At each stop, your guide will provide you with insider insight into the history and culture of the city.

Day 2: Salt Cathedral, Guatavita Lagoon

On day two, you’ll leave the city and venture out to explore the nearby Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Lagoon. The Salt Cathedral is a must-see attraction, located about an hour’s drive outside of Bogota. The cathedral was built inside a salt mine and is considered a masterpiece of Colombian engineering. After leaving the cathedral, you’ll make your way to Guatavita Lagoon, a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of the Andes Mountains. Here, you’ll learn about the history and cultural significance of the lagoon while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Day 3: Villa De Leyva

Your final day will be spent exploring Villa De Leyva, a charming colonial town located about three hours outside of Bogota. Villa De Leyva is known for its stunning architecture, white-washed buildings, and cobblestone streets. You’ll spend the day strolling through the town’s picturesque plazas and admiring the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

What’s Included

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees to all attractions, and the services of an expert tour guide.

Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund

Booking Your Tour

To book your three-day tour, please visit viator.com and search for “Bogota City Tour, Salt Cathedral, Guatavita Lagoon, and Villa De Leyva.” Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore Bogota and its surrounding areas in a comprehensive and unforgettable way. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bogota

Bogota, the capital of Colombia, is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural and historical background. Here are some frequently asked questions about Bogota that will help you plan your visit to this amazing city:

1. What is the best time to visit Bogota?

The best time to visit Bogota is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to March and July to August. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are several festivals and events taking place in the city.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Bogota?

Bogota is home to several iconic attractions that you must visit. Some of these include:

a) Monserrate

Monserrate is a mountain in the center of Bogota that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors can take the cable car or funicular to the top and explore the beautiful church and restaurants.

b) Gold Museum

The Gold Museum is a must-visit attraction for history and art lovers. It is home to over 55,000 gold artifacts from pre-Columbian times.

c) La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the historic district of Bogota that is home to several colonial-era buildings, museums, and universities. It is a great place to explore on foot and learn about the history and culture of the city.

3. Is Bogota safe for tourists?

Bogota has a reputation for being unsafe, but in recent years, the city has made significant progress in terms of safety and security. Like any other big city, you need to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. It is always advisable to travel with a group of people, avoid carrying valuables, and use licensed taxis.

4. What is the local currency, and where can I exchange money?

The local currency in Bogota is the Colombian peso (COP). You can exchange money at currency exchange booths or banks. It is always advisable to use reputable currency exchange services and avoid exchanging money on the street.

5. What is the local cuisine like in Bogota?

Colombian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors. Some of the must-try dishes in Bogota include:

a) Ajiaco

Ajiaco is a hearty soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and herbs. It is a popular dish in Bogota, especially during the colder months.

b) Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa is a hearty dish that consists of rice, beans, sausage, egg, and avocado. It is a popular dish in Bogota and is considered a national dish in Colombia.

c) Arepas

Arepas are a type of flatbread made from corn flour. They are typically filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables and make for a delicious snack or breakfast.

6. What is the best way to get around Bogota?

Bogota has a modern transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and the TransMilenio, a rapid transit system. The TransMilenio is a cheap and efficient way to get around the city, and it operates from 5 am to midnight. Taxis are also available and are a safe and convenient option. It is always advisable to use licensed taxis and to agree on the fare before starting the ride.

7. What are the shopping options in Bogota?

Bogota is a shopper’s paradise, and there are several shopping options available in the city. Some of the best places to shop in Bogota include:

a) Zona Rosa

Zona Rosa is a popular shopping and dining district in Bogota that is home to several high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

b) Usaquen Flea Market

Usaquen Flea Market is a popular market that takes place on Sundays in the Usaquen neighborhood. It is a great place to buy local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.

c) El Centro Comercial Andino

El Centro Comercial Andino is a luxury shopping mall that is home to several international and local brands. It is a great place to shop for high-end fashion and accessories.

8. What are the visa requirements for visiting Bogota?

Visitors from several countries, including the US, Canada, and most European countries, do not need a visa to enter Colombia for up to 90 days. However, it is always advisable to check the latest visa requirements before traveling.

9. What are some of the best day trips from Bogota?

Bogota is surrounded by several beautiful towns and cities that make for great day trips. Some of the best day trips from Bogota include:

a) Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

The Zipaquira Salt Cathedral is a unique underground cathedral built in a salt mine. It is a popular day trip destination from Bogota and is a must-visit attraction.

b) Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva is a picturesque colonial town located a few hours’ drive from Bogota. It is home to several historic buildings, churches, and museums.

c) La Chorrera Waterfall

La Chorrera Waterfall is the highest waterfall in Colombia and is located just a few hours’ drive from Bogota. Visitors can take a guided tour and explore the lush green forests and wildlife surrounding the waterfall. In conclusion, Bogota is a vibrant and diverse city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food, Bogota will not disappoint. We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your visit to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Bogota

Bogota, the capital of Colombia, boasts a fascinating mix of history, culture, and food. From strolling through colonial neighborhoods to exploring world-class museums and enjoying delicious street food, there are plenty of things to do in Bogota. If you’re planning a trip to the city, here’s how you can spend your time as a tourist:

1. Visit the Historic District of La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the oldest neighborhood in Bogota, and it’s home to numerous historic buildings and museums. You can start your tour at Plaza de Bolivar, the city’s main square, and admire the neoclassical architecture of the Cathedral Primada and the Palacio de Justicia. Next, visit the Casa de Nariño, the presidential palace, and learn about the country’s political history. Another must-visit is the Museo del Oro, which houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts in the world.

2. Take a Cable Car to Monserrate

Monserrate is a mountain that sits 3,152 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of Bogota. The easiest way to get there is by taking a cable car from the base of the mountain. Once you arrive at the top, you can explore the Santuario de Monserrate, a church that was originally built in the 17th century. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the several restaurants that offer panoramic views of the city.

3. Explore the Street Art of Bogota

Bogota is known for its vibrant and colorful street art scene. You can find murals and graffiti art in almost every neighborhood, but some of the best spots are in La Candelaria, Chapinero, and Usaquen. You can join a street art tour to learn more about the artists and their works, or simply wander around and discover the city’s hidden gems.

4. Taste Local Food and Drink

Colombian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and Bogota offers plenty of opportunities to try local dishes and drinks. Some of the must-try street foods include arepas (corn cakes filled with cheese or meat), empanadas (deep-fried dough stuffed with meat or vegetables), and churros (fried dough covered in sugar). For drinks, try a hot chocolate made with melted cheese, or a refreshing limonada de coco (coconut lemonade).

5. Learn About Colombian Coffee

Colombia is one of the world’s leading producers of coffee, and Bogota is home to several coffee shops and museums where you can learn about the country’s coffee culture. One of the best places to visit is the Coffee Museum, which showcases the history of coffee in Colombia and offers tastings of different varietals.

6. Enjoy Nature in the City

Despite being a sprawling metropolis, Bogota has several parks and green spaces where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the most popular parks is Simon Bolivar Park, which covers over 400 acres and features a lake, playgrounds, and sports fields. Another option is the Botanical Garden, which has over 1,700 species of plants and flowers from all over Colombia.

Final Thoughts

Bogota is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. Use this guide as a starting point to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time as a tourist in Bogota.

How to Plan Your 3 Day Tour in Bogota: City Tour, Salt Cathedral, Guatavita Lagoon, and Villa De Leyva