Must See Sites in Bogota, Colombia

Bogotá, Colombia is a vibrant, high altitude capital city rich in gold and history.  With so much to see and do in this sprawling South American metropolis, here is a list of must-see sites in Bogotá.

Museo del Oro
The Gold Museum is without doubt one of the must-see sites in Bogota.  Museo del Oro houses the largest display of gold artifacts in the world and is the most popular museum in Colombia.  With more than 55,000 pre-Columbian gold artifacts, you can browse the impressive work of the indigenous cultures.  Highlights include the Poporo Quimbaya and the Muisca golden raft, which symbolizes the ceremony of the legend of El Dorado.

La Candelaria
Another must-see site in Bogota is the historic La Candelaria neighborhood in the city’s downtown area.  La Candelaria is one of the main tourist attractions in Bogota and within the neighborhood is where you will find many of the major sites and buildings of interest.  La Candelaria dates back to Spanish colonial times, with brightly colored buildings, cobblestone streets and showcases Spanish Colonial, Baroque and art deco architecture. 

Plaza Bolivar
Located in La Candelaria, Plaza Bolivar is the main square in Bogota and a major tourist attraction.  The massive plaza is where you will find several prominent buildings, including the National Capital building, the Palace of Justice, and La Catedral Primada, the largest Cathedral in Colombia.  The plaza dates back to the indigenous Muisca peoples, who observed the sun’s rising at the solstices above the nearby Monserrate and Guadalupe Hills from the plaza.

Iglesia de San Francisco
The Church of San Francisco is a landmark in Bogota and the oldest surviving church in the city, dating back to the mid-16th century.  Located near the Gold Museum, Iglesia de San Francisco is known for its ornate gold-covered alter and delicate wood-work.

Monserrate
Of the many hills in Bogota, Monserrate is the hill that dominates the city’s skyline.  One of the must-see sites in Bogota is the view of the city from the top of Monserrate hill, over 10,000 feet above sea level.  At the top of the hill stands a 17th century church and shrine dedicated to El Señor Caído, meaning The Fallen Lord.  For breathtaking views of Bogota, you can climb the hill by foot, or take a tram or cable car.

Laguna de Guatavita
Laguna de Guatavita is located just outside of Bogota, but is one of the must-see sites easily accessible by car.  Lake Guatavita is the site of the legend of El Dorado and holds historical significance.  Many of the gold artifacts on display at the Museo del Oro were excavated from Laguna de Guatavita, most notably the Muisca golden raft.

Jardín Botánico de Bogotá
Another must-see site is the Botanical Garden of Bogota.  Jardín Botánico de Bogotá features flowers and plants from all climates and regions of the country and is the largest botanical garden in Colombia.  Highlights include its vast orchid collection and varieties of exotic Amazon flowers and Andean species of flowers.

Browse Colombia tour packages and vacations. Another popular way to explore Colombia is on a South America cruise. 

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