West Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for West Bogotá, including cultural and natural attractions, activities, accommodations, food and drinks, transportation, and safety tips.


Introduction to West

West Bogotá is a thriving metropolis located in the Andino region of Colombia, South America. Known for its dynamic cultural scene, vibrant street art, and natural beauty, West is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you want to explore local museums and historical sites, hike through the breathtaking mountains surrounding the city, or sample delicious Colombian cuisine, West has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in West

To make the most of your trip to West, we recommend visiting these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • El Chico Museum: A must-visit museum dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Colombian art and history.
  • Bolívar Square: One of the city’s most iconic landmarks and home to the famous statue of Simón Bolívar.
  • Palacio de San Francisco: A stunning 17th century colonial building with beautiful architecture and a rich history.

Natural Attractions of West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monserrate: A mountain peak overlooking the city, accessible via cable car or a challenging hike. The views from the top are simply breathtaking.
  • Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza: A pristine national park with diverse ecosystems, offering visitors plenty of hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Quebrada las Delicias: A beautiful river that runs through the city’s western hills, surrounded by lush greenery and perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West

  • Bogotá Bike Tour: A guided bike tour through the city’s main attractions, including La Candelaria, the Gold Museum, and Bolívar Square.
  • Camino de las Mariposas: A popular 7.5 km hike through the Andean mountains, offering stunning vistas of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in West: Activities and Tours

  • Street Art Tour: Explore West’s vibrant street art scene with a guided tour of the city’s most colorful murals and graffiti.
  • Food Tour: Sample the best Colombian cuisine West has to offer on a culinary tour of the city’s top restaurants and markets.
  • Paragliding: Enjoy a thrill-seeking adventure and majestic views of the city from above with a paragliding tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for West

Day 1-2: Explore the city’s historical landmarks and museums, including the El Chico Museum and Bolívar Square.

Day 3-4: Hike to the top of Monserrate for breathtaking views of the city, or take a bike tour through the streets of West and see all its colorful street art.

Day 5-6: Experience the beauty of Colombia’s natural landscape at Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza and Quebrada las Delicias.

Day 7: Enjoy a day of paragliding, followed by a culinary tour of the city’s top restaurants and markets.

Food and Drink Scene of West

No trip to West is complete without trying some of Colombia’s delicious dishes and drinks. Here are some of the must-try foods and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Ajiaco: A hearty soup made with chicken, corn, and potatoes.
  • Bandeja Paisa: A traditional platter of beans, rice, meat, plantains, avocado, and arepas.
  • Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.

Local Beverages:

  • Aguardiente: A popular anise-flavored alcoholic drink
  • Coffee: Colombia is renowned for its coffee, and you’ll find plenty of coffee shops throughout West selling the world’s best beans.

Where to Stay in West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and comfortable guesthouses.

Some of our top picks include:

  • Hotel Estelar La Fontana: A luxury hotel with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a top-notch restaurant.
  • Hostel Casa del Arbol: A budget-friendly hostel with dormitories and private rooms, featuring a charming garden and terrace.
  • Posada San Francisco: A cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere, located in a central location in West.

What to Buy in West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade crafts: You’ll find plenty of shops in West selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Colombian Coffee: Bring home the world’s best coffee as a souvenir or gift for family and friends.
  • Street Art: Local artists sell their paintings and other artwork in shops and on the streets of West, making for a unique and memorable souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of West

Colombia is a country with a rich cultural heritage and traditions that visitors should respect. Colombians are generally warm and friendly, but it is important to remember that tipping is a custom in the service industry.

Best Time to Visit West

The best time to visit West is during the dry season from December to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. However, you can also visit during the shoulder season from April to June or November, which offers fewer crowds and lower prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of West

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and coffee.
  • Do explore the city’s street art scene.
  • Do be friendly and respectful to locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave your belongings unattended in public places.
  • Don’t take unmarked taxis.
  • Don’t go out alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in West

West is generally a safe city for visitors, but it is important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places, and always keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in West

Make sure to drink plenty of bottled water to avoid getting sick. The city also has a high altitude, so be sure to take it easy and hydrate often to avoid altitude sickness.

Getting to West: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West

The closest airport to West is El Dorado International Airport, located about 30 minutes away by car or taxi.

Bus Stations Near West

The main bus terminal in West is the Portal de la 80 station, which offers connections to destinations throughout Colombia.

Other Options

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and affordable in West. The city also has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and the TransMilenio rapid transit system.

How to Get Around in West

Walking, cycling, and taxis are all great options for getting around West. The city also has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and the TransMilenio rapid transit system.

Where to Go Next from West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

West is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in Colombia, including:

  • Medellin: A vibrant city known for its nightlife, art, and culture.
  • Cartagena: A historic coastal city with stunning architecture and beaches.
  • Tayrona National Park: A beautiful park with pristine beaches and lush jungles, located on the Caribbean coast.

Conclusion

West Bogotá is a fascinating city with a rich cultural scene, beautiful natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re interested in exploring Colombian history and museums, hiking through the mountains, or simply enjoying the local cuisine and coffee, West is the perfect destination for your next adventure in South America.