Bogotá

Overview

Also known as Santa Fé de Bogotá or the Athens of the Americas, Bogotá is set at an altitude of over 2600 m (>8000 feet) with high ranges of the Cordillera to the east.  You may need some time to adjust to this altitude, especially if you are arriving from lower parts of the country or flying in. Most of the sights of the city are in the historic central neighborhood of La Candelaria. The Plaza de Bolivar is the principal square in the city and it is where the seat of both Federal and Local governments are housed. The buildings in the surrounding areas are built in the colonial style with wide-eaved balconies. Sitting on the main square, you may also see and visit the First Cathedral, built back in the late 1500's.  Bogotá�s most breathtaking museum is the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), -- more information on this museum and others can be found in the museums section. Downtown Bogotá is filled with shops, business offices, cafés, and the banking district -- also an interesting area to stroll around. Most of the best hotels, restaurants,  cafés, and boutiques are located in the Northern end of the city. Possible day trips from Bogotá include a trip to the salt mines of Zipaquirá, where you will find a whole cathedral built inside the salt mines.  Another incredible place to visit is Monserrate, where you will find a modest and uninspiring church, but a marvelous panoramic view of...more

History

With a population of about 8 million people, Bogota sits approximately 8,660 feet (2640 meters) above the sea level in the Andean Highlands. Orientation is relatively easy, as the mountains to the east are generally visible from most parts of the city. Bogota is a city with many layers. From internationally recognized universities to regional offices for multinational companies, Bogota is Colombia's capital for official business dealings. It is a city that caters to a population that has been exposed to European and North American influences, which ensures that anything from traditional dishes (Ajiaco) to sushi or fast food restaurants can be found. Its one of the most modern and metropolitan cities of South and Central America. Bogota is divided by 4 sections: The south which is mainly the poorer section of the city , El Centro where the main financial headquarters are established, El Occidente which is where Bogota's main middle and some upper class lives, and The North which is where most of the affluent live and where you will find many upscale boutiques, cafes, nightclubs, and many new multinational headquarters.