Teusaquillo-Salitre Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and how to get around in Teusaquillo-Salitre.


Introduction to Teusaquillo-Salitre

Teusaquillo-Salitre is an energetic neighborhood of Bogotá located in Andino, Colombia. It is known for its cultural and historical attractions, outdoor adventures, scenic views, and vibrant food and drink scene. This area offers a variety of camping options and natural wonders that can cater to every traveler’s needs.

List of Places to Visit in Teusaquillo-Salitre

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museo Nacional de Colombia: This museum houses collections of pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial art, and contemporary art. It is considered one of the most important museums in South America.

  2. Museo del Oro: The Museum of Gold is dedicated to exhibiting pre-Columbian artifacts made out of gold and other metals.

  3. Casa de Moneda: The Mint House is a house that highlights the city’s history and culture, from the pre-Columbian era to the present day.

  4. Teatro Colón: This theater is one of the most important cultural venues in the city, hosting various performances throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Teusaquillo-Salitre: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Parque Simón Bolivar: This park is a great place for outdoor activities, such as hiking, picnicking, and cycling. It has several man-made lakes, a botanical garden, and a zoo.

  2. Cerro de Monserrate: This mountain boasts incredible views of the city. You can reach the top by either hiking or taking a cable car.

  3. Jardín Botánico: The Botanical Garden is a great place to explore exotic plants and have a picnic. It offers guided tours and events throughout the year.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Teusaquillo-Salitre

  1. Ciclovía: Every Sunday, many roads in Bogotá are closed for bikers to enjoy safe cycling. The route in Teusaquillo-Salitre passes through some of the main attractions of the city.

  2. Cerro de Monserrate Hiking Trails: If you prefer hiking instead, there are several trails around this mountain with different levels of difficulty.

Best Things to Do in Teusaquillo-Salitre: Activities and Tours

  1. Graffiti Tour: Bogotá is renowned for its street art. This tour takes you through the city’s downtown and teaches you everything there is to know about street art across the city.

  2. Cooking Classes: Learn how to cook some of the traditional dishes of Colombia, such as arepas and empanadas.

  3. Bike Tour: Take a bike tour through the city’s top tourist attractions, such as the Bolivar Square, La Candelaria, and the National Museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Teusaquillo-Salitre

Day 1 Explore the historical district of La Candelaria
Day 2 Visit the Museo del Oro and Museo Nacional de Colombia
Day 3 Hike or bike to Cerro de Monserrate for the scenic view
Day 4 Take a cooking class and sample some Colombian cuisine
Day 5 Relax at Parque Simón Bolivar and visit the zoo
Day 6 Enjoy a graffiti tour around the city center
Day 7 Explore the local markets and buy souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Teusaquillo-Salitre

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Arepas: Corn-based patties that can be filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.

  2. Empanadas: Fried pastries stuffed with ingredients such as beef, chicken, or cheese.

  3. Sancocho: A soup made with chicken, potatoes, yucca, and other vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Chicha: A fermented drink made from maize that has a sweet and sour flavor.

  2. Aguapanela: A sweet beverage made from panela, a type of unrefined cane sugar.

Where to Stay in Teusaquillo-Salitre: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Habitel Select: A luxurious hotel near the airport, offering spa services, swimming pool, and a restaurant.

  2. Hostal Candelaria Real: A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of the historical district, offering private and dormitory rooms.

  3. Hotel Hilton Bogota: A modern hotel located in the key commercial and business centers of Bogotá. The rooms are spacious, and the hotel has a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.

What to Buy in Teusaquillo-Salitre: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Coffee: Colombia is renowned for its coffee. Buy some fresh bags to take back home.

  2. Handmade Crafts: Explore the markets and buy some handmade crafts, such as textile products and ceramic items.

Local Culture and Customs of Teusaquillo-Salitre

The people of Colombia are friendly and welcoming. They are proud of their culture and heritage. Colombians love to dance salsa, merengue, and cumbia, and indulging in some local street food is a must-do.

Best Time to Visit Teusaquillo-Salitre

The best time to visit Teusaquillo-Salitre is from December to February when there is little rain and mild temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Teusaquillo-Salitre

Do:

  1. Learn some basic Spanish phrases.

  2. Try the local dishes and immerse yourself in the culture.

  3. Explore the city’s natural attractions and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Do not carry large sums of money or wear expensive jewelry.

  2. Do not visit unsafe areas or areas recommended to avoid during your visit.

  3. Do not disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Teusaquillo-Salitre

Teusaquillo-Salitre is generally a safe area, but tourists should always exercise caution. Do not walk alone at night and avoid flashing valuables.

Health in Teusaquillo-Salitre

Visitors should ensure their vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Colombia. It is recommended that tourists drink bottled water and use filtration systems for tap water.

Getting to Teusaquillo-Salitre: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Teusaquillo-Salitre

  1. El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

Bus Stations Near Teusaquillo-Salitre

  1. Terminal de Transportes de Bogotá

Other Options

  1. Taxi: There are plenty of taxis in Bogotá, but be sure to use a licensed taxi service.

  2. TransMilenio: This is a bus rapid transit system that services the main tourist areas of Bogotá.

How to Get Around in Teusaquillo-Salitre

There a variety of transportation options available in Teusaquillo-Salitre, including taxis, buses, and bicycles. Buses and taxis are an affordable and convenient option, and renting bicycles is a popular method of transportation for tourists.

Where to Go Next from Teusaquillo-Salitre: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. La Chorrera Waterfall: A popular tourist destination known for its pristine waters and scenic hiking trails.

  2. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá: A unique cathedral built within an active salt mine that attracts thousands of tourists each year.

Conclusion

Teusaquillo-Salitre is a vibrant neighborhood packed with cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Its lively food and drink scene, along with its welcoming locals and stunning views, make it an incredible destination for any traveler.