A self-guided walking tour through Bogotá’s historic streets offers the perfect way to experience Colombia’s vibrant capital at your own pace.
La Candelaria Walking Route
Start your walk at Plaza Bolívar, the heart of Bogotá’s historic district and home to the neoclassical Capitol Building.
- Plaza Bolívar landmarks:
- Primary Cathedral of Bogotá
- Palace of Justice
- Liévano Palace (City Hall)
Head east on Calle 11 to visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), housing over 55,000 pieces of pre-Hispanic gold work.
Walk north to the Botero Museum, featuring works by Colombia’s most famous artist Fernando Botero, with free admission daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Cultural Stops
- Must-visit locations:
- Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center
- Luis Ángel Arango Library
- Colonial Art Museum
Street Art Route
Explore the colorful murals along Carrera 2 and Calle 12, where local artists showcase Bogotá’s thriving street art scene.
Safety Tips
- Walk during daylight hours (8 AM – 5 PM)
- Keep valuables hidden
- Carry only necessary items
- Use Uber or registered taxis after dark
Food Stops
Take a break at La Puerta Falsa (Calle 11 #6-50), Bogotá’s oldest restaurant serving traditional ajiaco soup since 1816.
| Location | Walking Time | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Plaza Bolívar to Gold Museum | 10 minutes | 9 AM – 11 AM |
| Gold Museum to Botero Museum | 15 minutes | 11 AM – 1 PM |
| Street Art District | 30 minutes | 2 PM – 4 PM |
Practical Information
- Tourist Information Office: Calle 24 #6-01 (open 9 AM – 5 PM)
- Emergency number: 123
- Tourist Police: +57 (1) 3374413
Download Maps.me or Google Maps offline version before starting your walk for reliable navigation through Bogotá’s historic streets.
Remember that Bogotá sits at 2,640 meters (8,660 ft) above sea level, so take regular breaks and stay hydrated during your walk.
Shopping Opportunities
Browse traditional Colombian crafts at the Mercado de las Pulgas San Alejo, open Sundays from 9 AM to 4 PM. Find authentic items like woven mochila bags and emerald jewelry.
- Recommended shops:
- Artesanías de Colombia (Carrera 2 #12-48)
- Pasaje Rivas craft market
- La Casona del Museo gift shop
Evening Activities
End your walking tour at Monserrate viewpoint for sunset views over the city. Take the cable car up (last descent at 7:30 PM) or save this for another day.
Dinner Options
- Casa San Isidro – Colombian fine dining
- Andrés DC – Traditional atmosphere
- Capital Cocina – Modern fusion
Conclusion
La Candelaria’s walking tour combines historic architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant street culture in a compact, walkable area. Allow 4-6 hours to fully experience the route’s highlights while enjoying frequent stops at cafes and cultural sites.
Additional Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring a light raincoat (afternoon showers are common)
- Start early to avoid afternoon crowds
- Consider joining a free walking tour for historical context
FAQs
- Is it safe to do a self-guided walking tour in Bogotá?
Yes, it’s generally safe to walk in Bogotá’s main tourist areas like La Candelaria, Zona Rosa, and Usaquén during daylight hours. However, stay vigilant, avoid isolated areas, and keep valuables secure. - What are the must-see stops on a walking tour of Bogotá?
Essential stops include Plaza Bolívar, Gold Museum, Botero Museum, La Candelaria’s colonial streets, Monserrate, Chorro de Quevedo, and the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen. - What’s the best time of day for a walking tour in Bogotá?
Morning to early afternoon (8 AM – 3 PM) is ideal, considering the city’s weather patterns and security. Sunday is particularly good as many streets are closed to vehicles during Ciclovía. - How should I prepare for Bogotá’s altitude when walking?
Bogotá sits at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet), so take it slow, stay hydrated, and allow time to acclimatize. Consider starting with shorter walks your first couple of days. - What should I wear for a walking tour in Bogotá?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring layers as temperatures can vary significantly, and pack a rain jacket as afternoon showers are common. Dress modestly to blend in. - How long does a comprehensive self-guided walking tour take?
A thorough walking tour of central Bogotá’s main attractions typically takes 4-6 hours, but can be split into multiple days or shorter segments. - Do I need cash for a self-guided walking tour?
Yes, carry some cash for museum entries, street food, craft purchases, and transportation. Many small vendors and some museums don’t accept cards. - What’s the best way to navigate during the walking tour?
Download offline maps on your phone, use landmarks like Monserrate mountain for orientation, and get a physical map from your hotel or tourist information center. - Are museums included in walking tours open every day?
Most museums are closed on Mondays. The Gold Museum and Botero Museum are free on Sundays but closed on Tuesdays. Check current operating hours before planning your route. - Should I book any parts of the self-guided tour in advance?
While most attractions don’t require advance booking, consider pre-booking tickets for the Monserrate cable car to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
