Bogota: Monserrate, Gold Museum & City Tour with Pickup

Summary

Monserrate heights gold treasures and Candelaria’s old soul

You’ll ride up Monserrate for panoramic city views, wander Bogotá’s historic Candelaria district with a local guide, marvel at ancient gold artifacts in the Gold Museum, and soak up art at the Botero Museum. Expect laughter over street snacks and moments of quiet awe—this day is full of contrasts you’ll feel long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what 3,100 meters above a city feels like? I didn’t, until our guide Camila handed me a ticket for the Monserrate funicular. The climb was quick but my ears popped halfway up—she said it happens to everyone. At the top, the air was thinner and sharper than I expected, carrying this faint scent of eucalyptus. The Basilica looked almost surreal in that morning light. Camila pointed out neighborhoods below—her finger tracing invisible lines through Bogota’s sprawl—and I tried to imagine living in every one.

Back down in La Candelaria, everything changed: colors got brighter, the air warmer. We wandered cobbled lanes where street artists argued over coffee (I caught maybe three words) and schoolkids darted between murals. The Gold Museum surprised me; I thought “gold” meant shiny things, but some pieces were so tiny you had to lean in close. Camila told us about the Muisca people and El Dorado—she laughed when I tried repeating “tunjo” (those little gold figures). My accent definitely needs work.

I lost track of time at the Botero Museum, staring at those round sculptures—there’s something oddly comforting about them. Plaza de Bolívar was busy with pigeons and politicians; someone handed me an arepa with cheese that was still steaming inside. We ended in Chorro de Quevedo where old men played chess and students read poetry out loud (badly, but with heart). There’s no way to see all of Bogota in one day trip from Cusco or anywhere else, but this private city tour gave me just enough to want more. I still think about that view from Monserrate whenever I hear church bells now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bogotá's main cultural sites

• Climb Monserrate by cable car
• Visit Monserrate Basilica viewpoint
• Walk historic La Candelaria streets
• Tour Gold Museum exhibits
• Visit Botero Museum
• Pass by Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center
• See La Catedral Primada at Plaza de Bolívar
• Visit Nariño Palace nearby
• Explore Plaza de Bolívar surroundings
• Walk to Chorro de Quevedo area

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Bogota city tour?

Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off is included.

How do you get up Monserrate during the tour?

You’ll ascend Monserrate by cable car or funicular—entry is included if you choose this option.

Are entry tickets to museums covered?

Yes, tickets for both the Gold Museum (closed Mondays) and Botero Museum (closed Tuesdays) are included.

What neighborhoods will we visit on this private city tour?

You’ll explore La Candelaria historic old town as well as Plaza de Bolívar and Chorro de Quevedo.

Is lunch or food included during the tour?

The experience includes a gastronomic element but not a full sit-down lunch; expect local snacks along the way.

How long does it take to reach Monserrate from central Bogota?

The drive is short; reaching Monserrate from central areas takes around 15–20 minutes by car.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by private transport, entry tickets for Monserrate (if selected), guided visits to both the Gold Museum and Botero Museum (with closures noted), plus time exploring La Candelaria’s streets, Bolivar Square, Chorro de Quevedo, and a taste of local flavors along the way before returning comfortably to your hotel.