Sustainable Shopping in Bogotá: Eco-Friendly and Fair Trade Stores

Historical or Contextual Introduction

Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, has seen a boom in environmental awareness and fair trade in recent years. This movement has manifested in the growth of stores and markets offering sustainable and ethical products. From its history as a commercial center to the present day, the city has evolved towards a community that values sustainability. By April 2026, it is estimated that the number of eco-friendly and fair trade stores has grown considerably, reflecting a change in the purchasing habits of Bogotanos and tourists.

The interest in sustainable practices is reflected in the variety of products offered, from clothing made from recycled materials to organic foods. This guide aims to highlight some of the best options for sustainable shopping in Bogotá, providing in-depth knowledge of where to go and what to look for.

What to Do

When exploring sustainable shopping options in Bogotá, there are several activities you can enjoy besides simply purchasing products. Here are some recommendations:

• Visit local fairs and markets: Many neighborhoods organize fairs for organic and artisanal products that are ideal for meeting producers.
• Take workshops: Some stores offer workshops on recycling, making natural and sustainable products, or fair trade practices.
• Participate in awareness events: The city has various events that promote sustainability and responsible consumption.

Eco-Friendly Stores

Below, we list some of the best eco-friendly stores in Bogotá where you can find environmentally friendly products:

• El Mercado de las Flores: Located at Calle 63 with Carrera 19, this market offers a wide variety of flowers and plants, many of which are organically grown. Open daily, it's an ideal place for nature lovers.
• Casa E: At Carrera 7 with Calle 24, this store specializes in sustainable and eco-friendly design products. You can find everything from clothing to decorative items. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am-7 pm.
• Biogreen: With several branches, Biogreen is dedicated to selling organic and chemical-free products. Prices start around $10,000 COP, and it's recommended to visit in the morning for a better experience.

Fair Trade Stores

Fair trade is fundamental to ensuring that producers receive fair treatment. Here are some notable stores:

• La Tienda de los Artistas: At Calle 85 with Carrera 15, this store offers products made by Colombian artisans. It focuses on promoting local and fair work. Open Monday to Saturday, 9 am-6 pm.
• Etiko: Based at Carrera 13 with Calle 39, this store sells clothing and accessories produced under fair trade principles. Prices range between $30,000 and $200,000 COP.
• Fundación Aluna: In the La Candelaria neighborhood, this foundation promotes the sale of products made by indigenous and Afro-descendant communities. Open Monday to Friday, 10 am-5 pm.

Where to Eat or Drink

After a day of sustainable shopping, it's important to enjoy Bogotá's gastronomic offerings. Here are some recommendations for places that also follow sustainable practices:

• Restaurante El Huerto: This is a vegetarian restaurant that uses organic and local ingredients. Located at Calle 70 with Carrera 9, its dishes are delicious and healthy. Open daily, 12 pm-10 pm.
• El Pan de la Abuela: With several branches, this place offers artisanal bread and pastries, using organic and fair trade ingredients. The rye bread is highly recommended. Variable hours, check before visiting.
• La Casa de la Cerveza: At Calle 82 with Carrera 11, this place offers craft beers, many of which are produced sustainably. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 4 pm-11 pm.

How to Get There and Transportation

Bogotá has an efficient public transportation system that facilitates access to the main commercial areas. Here's how to get around:

• TransMilenio: This bus system is the fastest way to get around the city. You can take routes that get you close to the mentioned stores. Check the nearest stops.
• Bicycle: Bogotá has an extensive network of bike lanes. Renting a bicycle is an ideal option for those who want to enjoy the city while shopping.
• Transportation apps: Services like Uber and Didi are popular in Bogotá and offer the convenience of reaching your destination without hassle.

Local Tips

To make your sustainable shopping experience in Bogotá even better, here are some useful tips:

• Always ask about the origin of the products: This will help you learn more about the impact of your purchases.
• Visit during less crowded hours: Mornings are usually less crowded, allowing for a better shopping experience.
• Support local artisans: Whenever possible, choose products made by Colombian hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find organic products in Bogotá?

There are several stores like Biogreen and El Mercado de las Flores that offer organic products. Additionally, many farmers' markets have sections dedicated to organic produce.

What is fair trade and why is it important?

Fair trade is a movement that seeks to ensure producers receive fair payment for their work. This is important because it promotes equality and helps improve the living conditions of farmers and artisans.

Are there sustainable product fairs in Bogotá?

Yes, Bogotá has several fairs for sustainable and organic products. We recommend visiting the Feria de la Plaza de Mercado de la 70, which takes place on weekends and offers a variety of local and sustainable products.