Essential information for navigating Bogotá

While traffic can be chaotic and there’s no comprehensive subway system, Bogotá remains fairly easy to explore.

Two modern solutions have alleviated congestion: an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes (over 500km/310 miles) and an efficient bus system called TransMilenio. Taxis are available for quicker trips, and many key attractions in the historic Candelaria district are easily walkable.

For a unique experience, ride a cable car or funicular to the summit of Cerro de Monserrate, the city’s iconic mountain.

Experience the TransMilenio with the locals

Bogotá’s BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system is modeled after the innovative network first introduced in Curitiba, Brazil, during the 1970s. Known as the TransMilenio, it operates large articulated buses in specially designated lanes, resembling an above-ground metro. To facilitate quick boarding and alighting, the buses stop at custom-built stations with raised platforms. When fully loaded, the largest buses can accommodate up to 270 passengers. As of 2023, nearly half of the city’s 3300 buses are electric.

Since its launch in 2000, the TransMilenio has expanded to include 12 lines and 152 stations covering 114km (70 miles). Smaller “feeder” buses that share the road with other vehicles connect areas not served by the TransMilenio.

To access the TransMilenio, you need to buy a smartcard called Tullave for COP$7000. This contactless card can be loaded and recharged at any bus station. Fares are affordable, costing COP$2950 per ride. Be aware that services can become extremely crowded, particularly during peak hours.

Ride a historic train to the Catedral de Sal

A private company called Tren Turístico de la Sabana operates a weekend-only heritage train from Bogotá’s elegant Sabana station to Zipaquira, located 42km (26 miles) north of the city, home to the renowned subterranean salt cathedral. The train also makes a stop at Usaquén along the way.

Sabana station is situated in the Los Mártires district, just a 20-minute walk from the Plaza de Bolívar in Candelaria.

Three options to ascend a mountain

Cerro Monserrate towers dramatically over downtown Bogotá, featuring a stunning basilica and serving as a popular pilgrimage site. Climbing it has become a rite of passage for locals and visitors alike.

There are multiple ways to reach the summit. The most physically demanding option is to hike up a paved path with occasional steps, climbing 500 vertical meters over 2.5km (1.5 miles). Keep in mind that Bogotá is already at a high altitude, which makes the air feel incredibly thin. It’s wise to acclimatize before attempting the climb.

If you prefer to save your energy, you can take a funicular (cable railway) or a teleférico (cable car). The funicular operates in the morning (until noon), while the teleférico serves the afternoon crowd. Both depart from the same location, just a short uphill walk from the Parque de los Periodistas.

The footpath to the mountain closes at 1pm, and most locals begin their hikes early since it opens at 5am.

Use a taxi to fill in the gaps

Bogotá's fleet of yellow taxis, made in Korea, offers a safe, dependable, and affordable means of transportation around the city.

It’s not advisable to hail a taxi on the street unless accompanied by a local—and definitely not after dark. When you do, you’re not registered, which means you lose all the safety measures designed to protect you. It’s best to ask someone at your hotel or a restaurant to arrange a taxi for you—or to book one yourself. Taking a taxi from the airport arrivals area is generally safe.

Uber and other taxi apps are operational in Bogotá, though there have been temporary service suspensions due to previous protests and legal issues. Always check before you go.

Explore one of South America’s top cycling cities by renting a bike

Known for its innovative Ciclovia, Bogotá closes 127km (79 miles) of its streets to motorized vehicles every Sunday, establishing itself as one of the world’s premier cycling cities. With 550km (342 miles) of interconnected ciclorutas (bike lanes), many separated from vehicle traffic, cyclists can navigate the city with minimal disruption.

Bike rentals are available at Bogotá Bike Tours in Candelaria. The company also offers daily guided rides, providing a fantastic opportunity to take in the sights, get oriented, and quickly learn about Bogotá’s vibrant streets and cycling etiquette.

You haven’t truly experienced Bogotá until you join in on Sunday’s Ciclovia (7am-2pm), when the city transforms from a hectic traffic center into a lively street festival for seven delightful hours—before returning to normal.

Considering driving? You might want to reconsider.

Renting a car just to navigate Bogotá isn’t the best choice. If you’re coming from outside South America, you’ll soon realize that driving here is a whole different challenge. The 2022 INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard ranks Bogotá as the eighth most congested city in the world, with the average resident spending 94 hours a year stuck in traffic. Avoid the stress—don’t drive.

Transportation options for accessibility in Bogotá

The TransMilenio system offers fairly good accessibility for wheelchair users, although there are a few considerations. Most stations feature ramps, and every bus includes at least one designated space for wheelchairs. Boarding is similar to that of subway trains, but be cautious, as some stations may have a small gap between the bus and the platform.

Both the funicular and cable car at Monserrate are wheelchair-friendly, and the trails at the mountaintop have ramps for easier access, though some may be quite steep.

For further details on accessible travel, check out Dinogo Planet's Shop.