Uncover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Bogotá on this comprehensive Old City Tour. Explore the charming La Candelaria district, marvel at the impressive Bolívar Square, and discover the city’s iconic landmarks. But the true highlight awaits as you ascend the legendary Monserrate Hill, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Andes. This immersive experience is further elevated by savoring traditional Colombian snacks, providing a delightful taste of the local culinary delights. Delve deeper into Bogotá’s rich tapestry and uncover the stories that have shaped this remarkable city.
Key Points
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Explore the historic La Candelaria district, with its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and key landmarks like Bolívar Square and the Cathedral of Bogotá.
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Visit Bolívar Square, the central hub of Bogotá’s political and cultural life, featuring the Neoclassical Capitolio Nacional and the Catedral Primada.
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Enjoy scenic views from the summit of Monserrate Hill, overlooking the city’s historic colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and the Andes mountains.
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Taste traditional Colombian snacks like arepas, empanadas, and obleas, complementing the cultural and historical experiences of the tour.
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This half-day private sightseeing tour in Bogotá’s historic center includes hotel pickup/drop-off, medical insurance, entrance fees, and gratuities.
Tour Overview
This Bogota Old City Tour offers a comprehensive half-day private sightseeing experience through the historic heart of Colombia’s vibrant capital.
Priced from $155 per person, it explores the charming La Candelaria district, visiting landmarks like Bolivar Square, the First Cathedral, and Narino Palace.
Guests can enjoy scenic views from the iconic Monserrate Hill and sample traditional Colombian snacks.
Discover stunning vistas from Monserrate Hill and indulge in authentic Colombian delights.
The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, medical insurance, entrance fees, and gratuities.
An optional upgrade offers a professional guide and lunch.
Confirmed bookings are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Explore Historic La Candelaria District
As the tour winds its way through the charming cobblestone streets of Bogotá’s historic La Candelaria district, guests will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of this vibrant neighborhood.
They’ll marvel at the colonial architecture, lined with colorful facades and balconies adorned with flowering plants.
The tour will visit key landmarks like Bolívar Square, home to the Palace of Justice and the Cathedral of Bogotá.
Guests will also explore the First Cathedral, the oldest church in the city, and the Nariño Palace, a neoclassical gem that once housed the office of the President of Colombia.
Visit Bolivar Square and Other Landmarks
After exploring the historic charm of La Candelaria, the tour takes guests to Bolívar Square, a central hub of Bogotá’s political and cultural life.
Here, they’ll see the grandiose Neoclassical Capitolio Nacional, home of Colombia’s Congress. Nearby is the Catedral Primada, the oldest cathedral in the country.
The tour also visits the Palacio de Nariño, the official residence of the President of Colombia. Along the way, guests can admire the colonial architecture, fountains, and statues that make Bolívar Square a must-see destination in Bogotá’s historic center.
Scenic Views From Monserrate Hill
The tour then ascends to the summit of Monserrate Hill, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Bogotá’s sprawling cityscape.
At an altitude of 3,152 meters, the iconic hilltop offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the scale and diversity of Colombia’s capital. Travelers can gaze out over the city’s historic colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and the surrounding Andes mountains.
The peaceful, spiritual atmosphere at the top is further enhanced by the presence of a 17th-century church and monastery. This scenic viewpoint is undoubtedly a highlight of the Bogotá tour experience.
Sampling Traditional Colombian Snacks
Though the scenic views from the summit of Monserrate Hill captivate visitors, the Bogotá Old City Tour also provides an opportunity to sample traditional Colombian snacks.
Tour participants can indulge in:
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Arepas: Cornmeal patties, often filled with cheese, meat, or other ingredients.
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Empanadas: Savory pastries stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as beef, chicken, or vegetables.
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Obleas: Wafer-like treats, sometimes sandwiched with arequipe (dulce de leche) or other sweet toppings.
These snacks offer a delightful taste of Colombian cuisine, complementing the rich cultural and historical experiences of the tour.
Want to see more of Bogota? Here are other city tours we've reviewed
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Inclusions and Additional Information
The Bogotá Old City Tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the sightseeing experience.
Travelers enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as medical insurance coverage. Entrance fees to all attractions are included, and gratuities are taken care of.
An optional premium tour adds a professional guide and lunch. The tour accommodates groups of 2 to 15 people, with multilingual guides available.
Specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian options, can be requested at the time of booking. Participants must provide their passport details prior to the tour.
Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Pickup for the Bogotá Old City Tour is available from most hotels in the city, subject to local traffic conditions. The tour starts at 8:00 am. A free cancellation policy is in place for up to 24 hours before the experience begins. Customers have the option to reserve now and pay later.
The booking and cancellation policy includes:
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
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Minimum of 2 people required per booking.
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Maximum of 15 travelers allowed.
Passport details are required for all participants.
This half-day private sightseeing tour offers flexibility and convenience for visitors exploring Bogotá.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Customers have left 5 reviews for the Bogotá Old City Tour, averaging a 4.4 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s history to life. Many highlight the stunning views from Monserrate Hill and the opportunity to sample traditional Colombian snacks.
Travelers also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. A few mention the tour’s pace could feel rushed, but overall, guests describe the experience as informative and enjoyable.
The tour’s high ratings suggest it’s a popular choice for those seeking an immersive introduction to Bogotá’s cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended, and additional activities can be added. Travelers can inquire about customizing the tour to suit their preferences and interests, as the tour provider may offer flexible options.
Are Child-Friendly Options Available for the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers child-friendly options. Children are welcome, and the itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate family needs. The tour includes activities and attractions suitable for all ages.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour provider and request modifications to the standard itinerary, such as additional stops or a focus on specific sites. The tour provider will work to accommodate any reasonable requests.
What Should I Bring to Make the Most of the Tour Experience?
When going on a sightseeing tour, it’s best to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and any snacks or drinks you might want. This’ll help you make the most of the experience and explore with ease.
Are There Any Restrictions or Requirements for the Monserrate Hill Portion of the Tour?
For the Monserrate Hill portion, visitors should be aware of restrictions on wheelchair accessibility. Proper footwear is recommended as the hike can be strenuous. Plus, tour participants must provide their passport details prior to the experience.
The Sum Up
The Bogotá Old City Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s historic La Candelaria district, showcasing its colonial architecture, renowned landmarks, and breathtaking views from Monserrate Hill. Complemented by traditional Colombian snacks, this enriching experience provides an insightful journey through Bogotá’s vibrant cultural heritage. With inclusions, booking details, and positive guest reviews, this tour is a must-consider for anyone seeking an immersive introduction to the enchanting Colombian capital.
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