In the heart of Bogotá, where concrete seems to want to devour every green space, Salitre stands as a lung breathing sport. It's not just a neighborhood, it's an epicenter where sneakers and bicycles find their rhythm against the city's gray. Here, between avenues and parks, a network of routes is woven that has turned this sector into the preferred training ground for runners and cyclists, both locals and those tourists who don't want to stop moving.
Salitre: Bogotá's Sports Epicenter
Salitre is no accident. Its urban design, with ample green areas and pedestrian connections, has made it the perfect place for those looking to escape traffic without leaving the city. Simón Bolívar Park, with its 113 hectares, is the beating heart of this activity. But it's not alone: around it, a constellation of smaller parks, bike lanes, and trails complete a unique sports ecosystem in Bogotá.
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Running Routes: From Beginner to Athlete
The running routes in Salitre are as diverse as those who traverse them. Every morning, at dawn, you can see everyone from families jogging together to professional athletes doing intervals.
Lake Route (Beginner - 3.5 km)
The most iconic route: it circles the main lake of Simón Bolívar Park. Completely flat terrain, asphalt surface in good condition, adequate lighting until 10 PM. Perfect for those who are starting out or want a gentle workout. On Sundays, when the ciclovía closes the streets to traffic, you can extend this route by connecting with Avenida 68.
Hills Circuit (Intermediate - 7.2 km)
For those seeking a greater challenge. It starts at the main entrance of the park, climbs towards the hills in the northeastern sector, passes by the Botanical Garden, and returns via the eucalyptus trail. It includes moderate climbs that elevate the heart rate. The best time is between 6 and 8 AM, when the morning mist creates an almost magical atmosphere.
Great Salitre Tour (Advanced - 12.5 km)
The complete route: it connects Simón Bolívar Park with El Salitre Park, passes by the El Salitre Sports Unit, and returns via the ciclovía on Calle 63. It includes varied surface types: asphalt, compacted dirt, and gravel trails. Local runners call it "the Sunday route," when training groups traverse it in unison.
Cycling Routes: Pedaling Through the City
For cyclists, Salitre offers both routes within the parks and connections to Bogotá's ciclovía network.
Sunday Ciclovía (Family - 15 km)
Every Sunday, from 7 AM to 2 PM, the streets around Salitre are closed to motorized traffic. The most popular route starts at Simón Bolívar Park, follows Avenida 68 to Calle 100, and returns via Carrera 60. It's flat, safe, and full of families. It's estimated that over 5,000 cyclists pass through here every Sunday.
Park Technical Route (Intermediate - 8 km)
Within Simón Bolívar Park, a marked circuit exclusively for bicycles. It includes sharp turns, small climbs, and technical descents. Mixed surface: asphalt for 70% of the route, dirt trails for the rest. Training groups are organized on Wednesday afternoons.
Connecting with the City (Advanced - 25+ km)
From Salitre, you can access Bogotá's bike lane network. The most popular: take the ciclovía on Calle 26 towards the historic center (8 km one way), or west along the Autopista Medellín. These routes require more experience due to rush hour traffic.
Practical Tips for Your Training
Safety
Salitre is one of the safest sectors in Bogotá for athletes, but it's always wise to take precautions. The busiest times (6-8 AM and 4-6 PM) are the safest. Avoid dark areas of the park after nightfall. For cyclists: always wear a helmet, front and rear lights, and a lock if you're leaving your bike.
Equipment
For running: shoes with good cushioning (some trails have exposed roots). Layers of clothing: mornings can be cold (10-12°C) but rise to 18-20°C by midday. For cycling: a bike in good condition, a basic repair kit, and for long routes, a water bottle cage.
Best Times
Dawn (5:30-7:30 AM): the golden hour. Fewer people, cleaner air, ideal temperature. Afternoons (4-6 PM): more crowded but with community energy. Avoid midday: higher pollution and traffic.
Hydration and Recovery
Inside Simón Bolívar Park, there are several drinking water fountains (located near the public restrooms). For long routes, carry at least 500ml of water. Post-workout, the area offers excellent options:
Cafes and Juice Bars
"La Juguería del Parque" (Carrera 60 #63-20): natural fruit smoothies, perfect for recovering electrolytes. "Café del Lago" (inside the park): lake view, freshly brewed Colombian coffee. "Panadería La Esquina" (Calle 63 #60-15): freshly baked whole wheat bread, ideal for replenishing carbohydrates.
Annual Sporting Events
Salitre hosts several events worth marking on your calendar: "Media Maratón de Bogotá" (August, part of the route passes through Salitre), "Ciclovía Nocturna" (first Friday of each month, from 6 to 10 PM), and "Parkrun Bogotá" (every Saturday at 8 AM in Simón Bolívar Park, a free event).
As Juan, a runner who has been training here for 10 years, told me: "Salitre isn't just where I run, it's where I find my rhythm. Where the city stops being chaos and becomes a training partner."
Ready to explore these routes? Download our PDF guide with route maps for your next workout!
Introduction
Simón Bolívar Park is more than just a green space; it's the beating heart of running and cycling enthusiasts in Salitre. Every morning, the park fills with runners and cyclists seeking their dose of adrenaline and fresh air. But did you know this place has an interesting past? Originally, it was farmland and pastures before becoming the urban refuge we know today.
La Florida Metropolitan Park
Located south of Simón Bolívar Park, La Florida Metropolitan Park offers a quiet and less crowded atmosphere, ideal for those seeking to disconnect from the city's hustle and bustle. Its route includes trails surrounded by trees and lakes, perfect for enjoying a morning run or a bike ride. Insider Tip: Take advantage of weekend mornings to enjoy the calm and bring your camera; migratory birds are a spectacle worth photographing.
Address: Calle 44 Sur # 12-10, Bogotá. Price Range: Free access.
Avenida Ciudad de Cali Ciclovía
This ciclovía is a true treasure for cyclists in Bogotá. With a route of approximately 10 kilometers, it connects different points of the city and offers spectacular views. It is especially popular on Sundays when it is closed to vehicular traffic. Insider Tip: Bring a map of the healthy food stops you'll find along the way; they are perfect for recharging your energy.
Address: Avenida Ciudad de Cali, Bogotá. Price Range: Free access.
Numbered List (minimum 5 items with mini-reviews)
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Simón Bolívar Park
This is Bogotá's green heart and an ideal place for running or cycling. With wide, well-maintained trails, you can enjoy a fresh and natural environment. Additionally, the central lake offers a beautiful landscape to rest after your workout.
One of the most popular routes for cyclists, the Avenida 68 ciclovía connects to different points in the city, allowing for a safe and fluid ride. During weekends, it is closed to traffic, becoming an exclusive space for cyclists and runners.
Although a bit further away, this park offers a picturesque route along its trail that extends for several kilometers. It's perfect for those seeking a quiet and less crowded environment than Simón Bolívar Park.
Located on the edge of Simón Bolívar Park, this trail is ideal for those seeking a bit of adventure. With a more rugged environment, it's perfect for running among trees and listening to birdsong. Don't forget to bring water, as it can be a bit demanding.
A classic for running enthusiasts, this park offers trails surrounded by nature and spaces for stretching. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect place to start the day. It's also a meeting point for many local runners.
El Lago Park
This park is a hidden gem, ideal for those seeking a quiet space to run. With a lake in the center, it's perfect for relaxing after a good workout. Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the birdsong.
Address: Calle 63 # 7 - 30, Bogotá. Price Range: Free admission.
Parque de la 93
This park is known for its vibrant atmosphere and its proximity to several restaurants and cafes. Ideal for runners who enjoy a good coffee after their workout. Insider Tip: Run in the morning and then enjoy breakfast at one of the local cafes that open early.
Address: Carrera 13 with Calle 93, Bogotá. Price Range: Free admission.
Map or How to Get There
Simón Bolívar Park
Located in the heart of Salitre, this is the favorite meeting point for runners and cyclists. With its wide trails and green areas, it offers an ideal space for training. Furthermore, its proximity to other points of interest makes it an excellent starting point.
El Tunal Metropolitan Park
A bit further away, but worth the trip. This park features a 3-kilometer jogging track and several bike paths that connect to other routes in the city. The view from the top of the hills is impressive, especially at sunset.
Insider Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Bogotá Ciclovía
Every Sunday, several streets are closed to traffic and opened to cyclists and runners. This is a great opportunity to explore the city in a different way. The route includes iconic landscapes and is perfect for a social ride with friends.
Insider Tip: Bring your own hydration, as water points can be crowded, especially downtown.
El Virrey Park
This park is a small oasis in the city, ideal for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Although not as large as Simón Bolívar, its route is very pleasant and less crowded. Perfect for a quiet morning run.
Insider Tip: Don't forget to check the event calendar, as there are often yoga and pilates events that complement the experience.
Conclusion or Final Recommendation
If you've already explored the most well-known routes in Simón Bolívar Park and its surroundings, there's more to discover in Salitre. Here are some additional recommendations that will lead you to other perfect spots for running and cycling.
El Salitre Park
This park is a green lung offering wide trails for running and a bike path that is not heavily used by cyclists, making it an ideal space for a quieter workout. With a family-friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for enjoying a day outdoors.
Parque de los Novios
This park is another excellent place for those seeking a less crowded space. With winding paths and a central lake, it's perfect for running and enjoying tranquility. It also has areas for stretching or simply resting after a good workout.
Remember that each of these places has its own charm and can offer you a unique experience, whether you prefer the bustle of Simón Bolívar Park or the calm of Parque de los Novios.