Welcome to Bogotá!
- The Heartbeat of Colombia
Bogotá is a city of contrasts. Wander through the cobblestone streets of La Candelaria, where colorful colonial buildings and street art tell stories of the past and present. Marvel at the breathtaking views from Monserrate, a mountain sanctuary that overlooks the sprawling city below.
Explore world-class museums like the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, where art and history come alive. But Bogotá isn’t just about history—it’s a city that thrives on innovation, with trendy neighborhoods like Zona G and Chapinero offering cutting-edge cuisine, boutique shopping, and a buzzing nightlife.
Get ready to fall in love with a city that’s as diverse as it is dynamic—Bogotá awaits!
1. Visa & Entry Information
Visa Requirements: Check if your country requires a visa to enter Colombia. Many countries (including the US, Canada, EU nations, and others) do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Verify your eligibility on the official Colombian government website: Cancilleria de Colombia.
Tourist Card: Some nationalities may need to fill out a tourist card upon arrival. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Entry: Don’t forget to complete the Check-Mig process, an online form required for entry and exit from Colombia. This quick and easy step ensures a smooth arrival and departure, so be sure to fill it out within 72 hours of your flight. Check-Mig Portal.
Vaccines: Currently, no vaccines are required to gain entry to Colombia. However, if you wish to visit tourist sites such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park, the Tayrona National Park or the different Amazon reserves, the Colombia authorities will require that you are properly vaccinated against yellow fever.
2. Weather and Dressing Tips
Weather: Bogotá has a mild, spring-like climate year-round due to its high altitude (2,640 meters above sea level). Average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Expect cool mornings and evenings, with occasional rain showers.
Dressing: Pack layers, including light sweaters, jackets, and comfortable walking shoes. Bring an umbrella or raincoat for sudden rain. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong at high altitudes.
3. Security Tips
General Safety: Bogotá is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it’s important to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or phones in public. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.
Transportation Safety: Use reputable taxi services like Uber, Cabify, or official taxi companies. Avoid hailing taxis on the street.
Emergency Numbers: In case of emergencies, dial 123 for police, 125 for ambulance, and 119 for fire services.
Health Precautions: Drink bottled water and ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
4. Transportation
Airport to City Center: El Dorado International Airport (BOG) is about 15 km from downtown Bogotá. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like UBER, CABIFY and DIDI are the most convenient options. Official airport taxis have fixed rates based on your destination.
Public Transportation: Bogotá has an extensive TransMilenio bus system and a growing network of bike lanes. Purchase a TuLlave card for easy access to buses and connections.
Walking: Bogotá’s historic center (La Candelaria) is best explored on foot. However, be cautious with your belongings in crowded areas.
5. Recommended Restaurants
Bogotá offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Colombian dishes to international cuisine. Here are some top picks:
Andrés DC: A lively restaurant with a mix of Colombian and international dishes. Perfect for groups.
Leo Cocina y Cava: A fine-dining experience with a focus on Colombian ingredients. Reservations recommended.
Mesa Franca: A trendy spot offering creative Colombian cuisine in the Chapinero neighborhood.
La Puerta Falsa: A historic spot in La Candelaria, famous for its traditional Colombian snacks like tamales and hot chocolate with cheese.
Criterion: High-end dining with French-inspired Colombian dishes.
6. Top Destinations in Bogotá
La Candelaria: The historic heart of Bogotá, featuring colonial architecture, museums, and street art.
Museo del Oro (Gold Museum): A must-visit showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts. Website
Monserrate: A mountain with a church at the top, offering stunning views of the city. Reachable by cable car or funicular.
Botero Museum: Features works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero and other international artists.
Usaquén: A charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and great restaurants.
7. Day Trips Near Bogotá
Zipaquira Salt Cathedral: An underground cathedral carved into a salt mine, located about 1.5 hours from Bogotá. Website
Guatavita Lagoon: A sacred lake tied to the legend of El Dorado, surrounded by beautiful Andean landscapes.
Villa de Leyva: A picturesque colonial town with a large central plaza, about 3.5 hours from Bogotá.
8. Cultural Tips
Bogotá, and Colombian people are known for being attentive, decent and welcoming.
Language: Spanish is the official language. While many people in the tourism industry speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful.
Currency: The Colombian Peso (COP) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for small purchases.
Tipping: A 10% tip is customary in restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers is not expected but appreciated.
9. Useful Links
Colombia Tourism Official Website: ProColombia
Bogotá Tourism Bureau: Bogotá Travel
El Dorado Airport Information: El Dorado Airport
TransMilenio Public Transport: TransMilenio
10. Entering the event
Venue: Agora Convention Center (A: Calle 24 No 38-71)
Access: To ensure a smooth and efficient check-in process, all attendees must present their ticket QR code at the registration desk upon arrival at the event.
You can easily find and download your QR code by logging into your account on the event’s official website. Simply visit the website, log in with your credentials, and navigate to the “Access QR code”.
