City of Bogota:

Bogota is a city of contrasts. With a population of over seven million, it’s a bustling, vibrant place where wealth and poverty collide, where the traditional and the modern come together, sometimes even in the same neighborhood. Business centers, historic Spanish colonial buildings and high-rises alike are found here. One of the most interesting parts of the city to visit is La Candelaria, a historic neighborhood in downtown Bogota. There you can enjoy baroque architecture of the old churches and buildings, theatres and universities, explore the many shops and flea-markets and sample the nightlife.

Bogota Highlights:

• Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo:This shopping center is a favorite hangout for university students and tourists alike. Live music is everywhere and you can find the best Colombian coffees, Spanish beer and food here. One night a week the center turns into a street fair, with live music, merchants selling jewelry, clothing and other Columbian souvenirs.

• The Plaza de Bolivar:This plaza is the center of all culture and tourist attractions in La Candelaria. Among street vendors, photographers, street theatre troupes, court houses and museums you will find El Capitolio Nacional(The National Capital), where Colombia’s government officials meet.

• Cinemateca Distrital: The premier cinematic library of Columbia. This is comparable to Universal Studios in Los Angeles and is home to a large number of movies. While you may not find any big Western movies here, you will have gained insight into the culture and history of Colombia. Film students can also study film here.

• Museo del Oro: With over 34,000 gold artifacts on display, the Banco de la Republica Gold Museum has the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian goldwork.

• Cerro de Monserrate: For breathtaking views of Bogota, take a cable car or gondola to the top of Cerro de Monserrate (3,152 meters above sea level), a lush, green mountain overlooking the city center.