Bogotá, the vibrant capital city of Colombia, is a treasure trove of fascinating landmarks, rich history and delectable cuisine. As you plan to explore the city, consider embarking on some of the fantastic free tours that Bogotá has to offer.
From centuries-old historical sites to dazzling street art, there is something for every type of traveler. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best free tours in Bogotá that you don’t want to miss while visiting the city.
Best free tours in Bogotá Colombia
Introduction To Bogotá Colombia
Bogotá, perched high in the Andes at an astonishing 2,600 meters above sea level, elegantly blends the old with the new. This bustling metropolis, home to around 8 million inhabitants, is a city of contrasts, where gleaming skyscrapers coexist with centuries-old cathedrals. Bogotá boasts a rich cultural scene, an exciting nightlife and a profound sense of history.
Despite its sprawling size and notorious traffic congestion, those who venture to explore Bogotá will find it a vibrant and enigmatic city. It’s worth noting that a quick visit will barely scratch the surface of everything Bogotá has to offer. The city truly deserves time to be thoroughly explored.
Planning Your Trip To Bogotá Colombia
Before diving into the best free tours in Bogotá, it’s essential to note that if you’re planning to visit during peak seasons (January to March and July to August), it’s advisable to book your tours well ahead of time.
In addition, you should book your flights a minimum of three months in advance and arrange your transfer from the Bogotá airport to your hotel when you book your flights.
Here’s a handy list of resources to help you plan your holiday in Bogotá:
- Planning the perfect trip to Bogotá (itinerary)
- Where to stay in Bogotá (neighborhood guide)
- Packing for a trip to Bogotá
- Payment and tipping in Bogotá
- How To Avoid Scams In Bogotá Colombia
- Transport options from El Dorado Airport in Bogotá
- Getting around the city in Bogotá
- Use InDrive in Bogotá (it’s better than Uber)
- How To Get A Local Mobile Phone Number And SIM Card In Colombia
- Things to do at night in Bogotá
- Bogotá’s craft beer scene
- Souvenir shopping in Bogotá
- 10 Best Tours In Bogotá Colombia
Getting To Bogotá Colombia
The most convenient way to reach Bogotá is by booking a flight through a reliable platform and flying directly into El Dorado airport in Bogotá. You should book all your flights to Bogotá about three months in advance for the best prices.
While buses are available from other Colombian cities and neighboring countries, keep in mind that Bogotá is situated at a high altitude in the Andean mountain range. Hence, all bus journeys to Bogotá are typically long and uncomfortable. Unless you’re an experienced backpacker, it’s better to avoid traveling to Bogotá by bus.
Best Free Tour Booking Platforms In Bogotá Colombia
It’s important to note that not all the best free tours in Bogotá are listed on a single platform. Therefore, consider checking multiple platforms to find the tour that best suits your interests.
In Bogotá, the two platforms with the best available free tours are Civitatis and Guru Walks. With my favorite booking application being Civitatis for its ease of use. Civitatis and Guru Walks are available at the below addresses.
Click each to see it’s full catalogue of tours:
Exploring Bogotá’s Marvels: The Top Free Tours
Now, let’s dive into the exciting part: the best free tours in Bogotá. These tours will provide you with a rich understanding of the city’s history, culture and lifestyle.
Historical Treasures: La Candelaria Walking Tour
La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historical district, is a must-visit attraction. The narrow cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings in this neighborhood transport you back in time, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past.
This free tour of Bogotá provides an excellent introduction to the cities history and culture, led by knowledgeable local guides.
Duration: 3 hours
Languages: English & Spanish
Highlights: Plaza de Bolívar, Gold Museum, Botero Museum and Chorro de Quevedo
Price: Free – just tip whatever you think your tour guide was worth!
Breathtaking Panorama: Mount Monserrate Tour
Mount Monserrate offers an unparalleled view of Bogotá. This tour not only introduces you to the history of Monserrate but also allows you to admire the absolutely breathtaking views of the city.
Duration: 2 hours
Languages: English & Spanish
Highlights: The best views in Bogotá are to be found at Monserrate. On this tour you’ll not only get to ride the cable car to the top and take in the view, you’ll also visit Monserrate Sanctuary and the wishing well of Monserrate.
Price: Free – just tip whatever you think your tour guide was worth!
Vibrant Street Art: Graffiti Tour
Bogotá is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. A graffiti tour not only allows you to admire these impressive works of art but also provides insights into the social and political messages and stories behind them.
While you will encounter some of these murals walking around without a tour, taking the free Graffiti Tour will ensure you’ll see all of Bogotá’s best murals. Including many in areas you would be wise to avoid without a local tour guide.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Languages: English & Spanish
Highlights: Learn about the history of street art in Bogotá and how street art has played a role in social and political change.
Price: Free – just tip whatever you think your tour guide was worth!
Active Exploration: Bogotá Bike Tour
A bike tour is a great way to discover Bogotá. Pedaling through the city’s streets, parks and neighborhoods allows you to cover more ground than a walking tour.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Languages: English & Spanish
Highlights: For those who want a glimpse of the Santa Fe Tolerance Zone, Bogotá’s take on Amsterdams red-light district, this tours skirts through Santa Fe. Allowing you a glimpse of Santa Fe risk free.
Price: Free – just tip whatever you think your tour guide was worth!
Shiny Objects: Emerald Tour
For many visitors to Bogotá the ultimate souvenir is a piece of emerald jewelry. You’ll find emeralds sold everywhere throughout the city. Yet, you shouldn’t buy an emerald until you’ve learnt all you can about the history of emerald mining in Colombia and how to spot a fake.
Combine this free emerald tour with a visit to the international emerald museum (next to the Gold Museum) to learn all you can about Colombia’s most beautiful export.
Duration: 1 hours
Languages: English & Spanish
Highlights: This tour will take you through the emerald trading zone. Where you will learn all about emeralds while watching hundreds of informal dealers buy and sell emeralds to each other on the street.
Local Tip: If you are looking to buy an emerald while in Colombia, ask your guide to accompany you to the store. He can ensure you aren’t ripped off or sold a fake.
Price: Free – just tip whatever you think your tour guide was worth!
Sweet & Savoury: Free Food Tour Of Bogotá
Walk through the streets of La Candelaria and sample all the most prominent local dishes. From sweet to savory, Colombian cuisine has something for everyone.
Did you know that Colombian’s even fry octopus in coke? Yeah, they do and you can learn all about it on this free food tour of Bogotá. Along with sampling regional specialities like ajiaco. Before finishing the tour with a hot cup of Colombian coffee.
Duration: 3 hours
Languages: English & Spanish
Highlights: Taste all the best local dishes that Bogotá has to offer and learn about Colombia’s rich culinary history. For more in-depth food tours, try these 3 food tours while in Bogotá.
Price: Free – just tip whatever you think your tour guide was worth!
Where To Stay In Bogotá
Choosing the right neighborhood to stay in can greatly enhance your experience in Bogotá. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods among tourists: La Candelaria, Chapinero, Zona Rosa, Usaquen and Parque 93.
Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, these neighborhoods offer a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences.
Final Word On The Free Tours Available In Bogotá
Bogotá is a captivating city that offers a rich array of experiences. I’ve listed the free tours above in the order I believe you should take them. So as to best maximize your time in Bogotá and to see the attractions in an order that makes them easier to understand.
Now, with this guide to the best free tours in Bogotá, you’re ready to explore all that the Colombian capital has to offer.
Safe travels!
Where Can I Get More Information On Bogotá?
If you’re planning to visit Bogotá on your next vacation, or you’re simply interested in Colombia in general, you should read my Bogotá City Guide.
My Bogotá City Guide is updated regularly. And it seeks to answer all of your questions regarding Bogotá and Colombia in one place. Read my Complete Bogotá City Guide.
