Introduction: The cycling infrastructure of Bogotá
Bogotá has positioned itself as one of the most bike-friendly cities in Latin America, thanks to its extensive network of bike paths that exceeds 630 kilometers. This infrastructure not only facilitates mobility but also invites locals and visitors to explore the city in a unique and sustainable way. Cycling through the streets of Bogotá is an experience that fuses art, nature, and culture, allowing you to discover corners that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Route 1 – Art and memory
Start your adventure at Parque Nacional, an iconic place that marks the beginning of a route full of urban art. From here, head towards Media Torta, a vibrant cultural space that hosts events and artistic activities.
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Murals on Carrera 24
As you pedal, you can't help but admire the impressive murals that adorn the walls of Carrera 24. This area is famous for its vibrant street art, which reflects the history and culture of the city. Take a break to capture some photos of these masterpieces.
La Macarena
Continuing on your way, you will arrive at the neighborhood La Macarena, known for its art galleries and bohemian atmosphere. Take the opportunity to stop at one of its cozy cafés, where you can rest and enjoy a good coffee while soaking in the art around you.
Route 2 – Hidden nature
This route will take you to discover two of the most important wetlands in Bogotá: Humedal de Córdoba and Humedal Juan Amarillo. Both areas are biodiversity refuges and offer a respite from urban noise.
Humedal de Córdoba
Start at Humedal de Córdoba, located in the locality of Suba. This wetland is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying nature. You can cycle along the paths that surround the wetland and let yourself be carried away by the tranquility that this green space offers.
Specialty coffees in El Polo
After exploring the wetland, head to the neighborhood El Polo, where you will find several specialty coffee shops. Here you can taste high-quality Colombian coffee and relax before continuing your cycling adventure.
Route 3 – History and coffee
This route will take you from Plaza de Bolívar, the historical heart of Bogotá, to the neighborhood Egipto, one of the oldest in the city. A perfect route for those who want to combine history and gastronomy.
Plaza de Bolívar
Start at Plaza de Bolívar, where you can admire the Primada Cathedral and the National Capitol. This place is steeped in history and symbolism, making it ideal to begin your journey.
Barrio Egipto
As you head towards the neighborhood Egipto, you will appreciate the colonial architecture and traditional atmosphere. Stop by one of the local bakeries to try a delicious pan de bono or arequipe.
Candelaria
Finally, ride down Carrera 5 until you reach La Candelaria, where you will find a mix of history, art, and culture. This neighborhood is famous for its museums, theaters, and cafés, making it the perfect place to end your tour.
Practical tips
- Bicycle rental: You can rent bikes at BiciBogotá, which has several stations throughout the city. Prices are affordable and the service is easy to use.
- Safety at intersections: Be cautious when crossing intersections and follow traffic signals. Always wear a helmet and stay alert to your surroundings.
- What to bring on your bike: Bring a water bottle, a basic tool kit, and a pump. It’s also advisable to carry sunscreen and a light jacket in case the weather changes.
- Cycling navigation apps: Use apps like Google Maps or Strava to plan your route and find the safest bike paths.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to ride a bike in Bogotá?
In general, Bogotá has a good cycling infrastructure and many people use bikes as a means of transportation. However, it is important to be attentive to traffic and follow safety rules.
Where can I rent bikes in Bogotá?
You can rent bikes at BiciBogotá stations, which are distributed throughout the city. There are also bike rental shops in different neighborhoods.
What are the hours of the Ciclovía in Bogotá?
The Ciclovía takes place every Sunday and holiday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. During this time, several main streets are closed to vehicular traffic, allowing cyclists, pedestrians, and runners to enjoy the road.
Tell us which route surprised you the most and tag a friend to do it together. Let’s pedal!
What to do
Murals in La Candelaria
La Candelaria is an open-air museum where murals tell stories of Bogotá's culture and social struggle. You can walk through streets like Calle del Cartucho and Carrera 2, where you will find works by local and international artists.
Insider Tip: Bring your camera and take advantage of the morning light to capture the vibrant colors. Also, look for a guided tour by local artists who can tell you the story behind each mural.
Humedal de la Conejera
This wetland is a refuge for biodiversity in the middle of the city. With its rich flora and fauna, it is ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. You can walk its paths and enjoy a tranquil environment.
Insider Tip: Visit the wetland in the morning to observe migratory birds. Bring binoculars and a local bird guide to identify the species you encounter.
Neighborhood Cafés in Chapinero
Chapinero has become a hotspot for coffee lovers. Here you can find everything from small cafés to co-working spaces that offer specialty coffee. Don’t miss places like Café San Alberto and La Palma y El Tucán.
Insider Tip: Ask about the coffee tastings that some of these places offer. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the production process of Colombian coffee directly from the baristas.
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Where to eat or drink
El Gato Gris
This café, located in the La Candelaria neighborhood, is perfect for relaxing after a long bike ride. Its cozy atmosphere and varied selection of Colombian origin coffees make it stand out. Here you can enjoy a delicious filtered coffee while appreciating the local art that adorns its walls.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss their guanabana cheesecake, a dessert that combines tropical flavors and is very popular among locals.
La Puerta Falsa
Considered an institution in Bogotá, La Puerta Falsa is famous for its hot chocolate with cheese and its ajiaco. This place has a rich history dating back to 1816 and is an excellent stop after a tour of the historic center. The traditional atmosphere and the warmth of its service will make you feel at home.
Insider Tip: Visit in the morning to enjoy the local atmosphere and try their famous tamal, which is ideal for starting the day with energy.
Casa B
Located in Chapinero, Casa B is a café that combines great coffee with an artistic environment, ideal for those looking for a space to work or relax. Its live music events and local art exhibitions make it a cultural meeting point.
Insider Tip: Ask about their single-origin coffees, which are prepared by expert baristas, and don’t hesitate to participate in one of their tastings to learn more about Colombian coffee.
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How to get there and transport
To move around Bogotá and enjoy the bike paths and tours the city offers, here are some transport options that will facilitate access to the starting points of the routes:
Transmilenio
The mass transit system in Bogotá is an excellent way to reach various points of interest. Be sure to check the routes that bring you closer to the bike paths. The stations closest to the bike paths are usually well marked and are frequently used by cyclists. Insider Tip: During peak hours, Transmilenio can be very crowded, so if you can, plan your trips during less congested times.
Shared Bikes
The shared bike system in Bogotá, such as Más Que Bici, is a practical option for those who do not have their own bike. You can rent a bike for a few hours and leave it at different stations along the bike paths. Insider Tip: If you are a tourist, download the app before arriving in the city to familiarize yourself with the system and the available stations.
Taxi Services and Transport Apps
Transport apps like Beat or Uber are widely used in Bogotá. You can request a ride to the beginning of the most popular bike paths. Insider Tip: Always check that the driver is heading in the same direction as your destination and don’t hesitate to ask about the route they will take, as some routes may be congested.
Walking
If you are near the bike paths, walking is an ideal option to enjoy the Bogotá atmosphere. Many of the routes are interconnected with parks and cultural areas. Insider Tip: When walking, don’t limit yourself to the bike paths; explore nearby alleys and squares that often have murals and hidden cafés that don’t appear in tourist guides.
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