Monserrate & Gastronomy

★★★ Cerro de Monserrate

Bogotá's mountain and landmark rises 3,152 meters above sea level — that's 500 meters above the city. At the summit stands a pilgrimage church from the 17th century, alongside restaurants with panoramic views and a market with handicrafts.

The view over the megacity is breathtaking: In clear weather, you can see the entire sea of houses of Bogotá to the distant mountain ranges. Especially spectacular at sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light and the millions of lights slowly come on.

Three ways to the top: cable car (Teleférico, 5 min., 25,000 COP round trip), funicular (5 min., same price) or on foot (1,500 steps, 1.5h uphill, free — only possible in the morning, from 5:00 a.m.). The footpath is steep but safe and a ritual for Bogotans.

Mon–Sat 7:00–24:00, Sun 6:30–18:30. Cable car/Funicular: 25,000 COP (6€) round trip. On weekends and at sunset: expect queues!

Bogotá's Gastronomy

Bogotá is a culinary revelation. The city has experienced a gastronomic revolution in recent years and hosts some of the best restaurants in Latin America:

• El Chato: Among the 50 best restaurants in Latin America. Modern Colombian cuisine celebrating local ingredients from all regions. Tasting menu from 200,000 COP (47€). Reservations weeks in advance!
• Usaquén Sunday Market: Every Sunday, the square transforms into a huge flea and food market. Empanadas, Arepas, Obleas (waffles with Arequipe), fresh juices, handicrafts. Perfect Sunday morning.
• La Puerta Falsa: Colombia's oldest restaurant (since 1816!) on Calle 11 in Candelaria. Famous for Tamales Bogotanos and Chocolate con Queso (hot chocolate with cheese — sounds strange, tastes amazing).
• Andrés Carne de Res: Not just a restaurant, but a parallel universe. Huge, colorful, loud, crazy. The branch in Chía (north of Bogotá) is legendary — food, dancing, show. Friday/Saturday from 8 p.m., plan B for the whole evening.