Roberta Aguirre
Consistently voted one of the best airports in South America, Bogota's El Dorado International Airport is known for its modern amenities, friendly staff, and quality eateries. If you have a long layover in Bogota, you may want to step out and explore the city. With its gorgeous classical 19th-century architecture and vibrant spirit, Bogota has a lot to offer. Here are some suggestions on what to do during a layover in Bogota.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Rating | Consistently voted one of the best airports in South America and the world |
| Amenities | Modern, friendly staff, quality eateries, unlimited free WiFi, lounges with showers, beauty salon, and a range of shops |
| Food | Over 50 eateries, including cafes, bars, to-go spots, and restaurants serving Colombian, Latin, American, Italian, and Greek cuisine. Local coffee, chocolate, and beer are also available, as well as international chains like Burger King, Subway, Starbucks, and McDonald's |
| Nearby Attractions | Monserrate, Plaza de Bolivar, Candelaria, Gold Museum, El Jardín Botánico de Bogotá, Salt Cathedral, and various historic districts |
| Transportation | Public buses and licensed taxis are available outside the main terminal. Uber is also an option, with prices dropping by 50% about 1 km away from the airport |
| Luggage Storage | Available at the airport for $5 per bag, and at Bounce in the city |
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What You'll Learn
- Eat at one of the 50+ eateries, including local and international options
- Shop at the airport's 3 dozen stores, including local artisans and Duty-Free
- Relax in one of the lounges, some with showers and unlimited food
- Explore Bogota with a self-guided audio tour or by taxi
- Visit the Gold Museum, home to pre-Spanish artefacts
Eat at one of the 50+ eateries, including local and international options
Bogota's El Dorado International Airport has been consistently voted one of the best airports in South America, and for good reason. The airport boasts modern amenities, friendly staff, and over 50 eateries, ranging from cafes and bars to restaurants and to-go spots.
If you're looking for a quick bite, you can choose from a variety of international chains, including Burger King, Subway, Starbucks, and McDonald's. However, if you're craving something more substantial, the airport offers a range of local and international cuisine, including Colombian, Latin, American, Italian, and Greek options. Sample the local coffee or chocolate, or try the local brew at Bogota Beer Company.
For those looking for a more upscale experience, the airport also features gourmet restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and patisseries. Gordo, a branch of a famous gourmet burger restaurant in Bogota, is a popular choice, offering delicious burgers, craft beers, and a cosy atmosphere at affordable prices. Andres Carne de Res, located in the newest food court, serves some of the best Colombian food in the airport, while Mercari, a high-end French patisserie, offers a selection of cakes and sweet snacks.
If you're looking to relax and unwind, the airport lounges provide the perfect opportunity. For an entry fee, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks, comfortable seating, WiFi, and TV. Additionally, some lounges offer shower facilities, providing a refreshing break during long layovers.
Whether you're seeking a quick bite, a gourmet meal, or a relaxing lounge experience, Bogota Airport has something to offer, ensuring your time spent there is anything but boring.
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Shop at the airport's 3 dozen stores, including local artisans and Duty-Free
Bogotá's El Dorado International Airport is known for its modern amenities, friendly staff, and quality eateries. Consistently voted one of the best airports in South America, it is also the largest airport in Colombia, serving as an important hub for several airlines.
The airport has approximately three dozen shops, including local artisans and Duty-Free boutiques, offering a range of products to meet your last-minute needs and temptations. Here is what you can expect from the shopping experience at El Dorado International Airport:
Convenience and Electronics Stores
In addition to the Duty-Free areas, the airport has a variety of convenience and electronics stores. These shops offer last-minute travel essentials, such as convenience items and electronics, ensuring that you have everything you need before boarding your flight.
Local Artisans and Colombian Specialties
El Dorado International Airport showcases the talents of local artisans. You can browse and purchase a range of handicrafts, including unique items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Colombia. Among the local specialties are coffee, cigars, and chocolate. These items make perfect souvenirs, whether you're buying gifts for loved ones or treating yourself to a taste of Colombia.
Duty-Free Shopping
The airport also features a selection of Duty-Free shops, where you can take advantage of tax-free prices on a variety of products. From luxury boutiques to essential travel items, the Duty-Free area offers a convenient and cost-effective shopping experience. Remember to have your boarding pass handy, as the quantity of items you can purchase may be limited.
Beauty Services
If you're looking to refresh your look during your layover, El Dorado International Airport has you covered. The airport is home to beauty and hair services, such as Peluquería El Dorado, located pre-security. You can also visit the beauty salon located within the airport to enhance your travel experience and arrive at your destination feeling pampered and refreshed.
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Relax in one of the lounges, some with showers and unlimited food
Bogota's El Dorado International Airport has been consistently voted one of the best airports in South America. The airport combines gorgeous classical 19th-century architecture with the vibrant and anarchic spirit of Colombia. It offers modern amenities, friendly staff, and quality eateries. If you have a long layover, you can relax in one of the airport's lounges, some of which offer showers and unlimited food.
The LAN and Avianca lounges are partner lounges in the airport. The LAN lounge is highly recommended as it offers better seating, food, alcohol, and outlets. It has a beautiful buffet area with a wine-and-glass theme, featuring edible sandwiches, cheeses, fruit, and even sushi. Alcohol is also available, including several varieties of Bogota Beer Company craft beer. The lounge also features showers and nice private bathroom stalls.
The Avianca lounge is the airline's flagship lounge as Avianca is hubbed in Bogota. It offers a modest buffet, comfortable seating, and showers. However, it does not have outlets at every seat.
The Sala VIP LATAM lounge is located in Terminal 1, Airside, International Departures, 3rd Floor, in front of Gates 34-35. This lounge offers showers and can be accessed by paying at the door (US$60).
The American Express Lounge is located in Terminal 1, with two locations: the International Pier and the South National Pier. It is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. First or Business Class travellers may have access to this lounge.
If you are an economy class passenger, you can still buy access to several airport lounges, one of which has shower facilities.
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Explore Bogota with a self-guided audio tour or by taxi
If you have a long layover at Bogota Airport, you can head into the city centre, which is only about 35 minutes away by taxi. The licensed taxis are affordable and use a voucher system, so you'll know the price in advance. You can find the official taxi ranks at Terminal 1's Exit doors 2, 3, 5, and 6, and at Terminal 2's Arrivals exit. Remember to pre-pay for your taxi ride at the counters in the Arrivals Hall.
If you prefer to take public transport, you can take the free airport shuttle to the 'Portal El Dorado' station and then hop on the K86 bus to the city centre. The total travel time is around 1 hour. However, buses are subject to timetables and can get very busy, so taking a taxi may be a better option if you're travelling with children or heavy luggage.
Once in the city, you can start your self-guided tour of Bogota. Begin at the Plaza de Bolivar, the historic city centre known for its colonial architecture. Head to the Gold Museum, which showcases indigenous, pre-Spanish artefacts in a modern setting. Then, catch a taxi to Monserrate, Bogota's biggest attraction, which offers stunning views of the city from 10,000 feet above sea level. At the summit, you'll find the Santuario de Monserrate, a religious site packed with people celebrating their faith. If you have the energy, you can choose to walk up the mountain, but be aware of the altitude and the risk of theft on quieter paths.
On your way down, explore the historic streets of the Candelaria area, known for its beautiful old buildings. Stop at the many street food stalls or cafes as you walk towards the main Plaza Bolivar. Remember to allow enough time to get back to the airport, as traffic can be unpredictable. Aim to be back at the airport 3 hours before your flight, and don't forget to try some local coffee, chocolate, or a beer at Bogota Beer Company before you leave!
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Visit the Gold Museum, home to pre-Spanish artefacts
If you have a long layover in Bogota, you may want to head into the city centre, which is about a 50-minute bus ride or a 35-minute taxi ride from the airport. Once there, the Gold Museum is a must-see. It is considered the best museum of its kind in Latin and South America.
The museum houses over 55,000 works, with over 6,000 on display. It is home to the world's largest collection of Pre-Hispanic gold artefacts, with over 34,000 pieces of gold. The Gold Museum showcases indigenous, pre-Spanish artefacts in a modern, well-documented space. The exhibits are in English and Spanish, and you can rent an audio guide to help you learn about the history of these indigenous groups.
Among the many gold pieces, you will find the poporo quimbaya, a vessel used by indigenous cultures to store lime for their ritualistic chewing of coca leaves. The Muisca Raft is another stunning piece. It portrays the ritual that gave rise to the famous legend of El Dorado. According to the legend, there was once a place in South America where everything was made of gold. In search of El Dorado, 16th-century Europeans travelled great distances. The last stop on the tour is a small, dark circular room. Gradually, the walls and floor light up, revealing images of golden objects and a circle in the middle of the floor, meant to be the depths of Lake Guatavita.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm, and on Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. Touring the whole museum takes about four hours.
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Frequently asked questions
Bogota's El Dorado International Airport has been voted the best airport in South America and the world. It offers modern amenities, friendly staff, and quality eateries. There are over 50 cafes, bars, to-go spots, and restaurants serving Colombian, Latin, American, Italian, and Greek cuisine. There are also approximately three dozen shops, including convenience stores, electronics stores, and Duty-Free areas. The airport also provides unlimited free WiFi.
If you want to stay in the airport, plan for at least three to four hours to explore, eat, and relax in the lounges. If you want to head into Bogota, you'll need at least six to seven hours after factoring in travel time and security checks.
Bogota is Colombia's capital, combining gorgeous classical 19th-century architecture with vibrant culture. You can take a self-guided audio tour or wander through the historic districts, including the Candelaria area and Plaza de Bolivar. You can also visit the Gold Museum, which displays indigenous, pre-Spanish artefacts. For stunning views, head to Monserrate, Bogota's biggest attraction, where you can take a funicular train or cable car to the summit, which features the Santuario de Monserrate.
Yes, there are luggage storage options available at the airport and in the city through services like Bounce.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including budget-friendly options like Habitel Hotel and upscale choices like Courtyard by Marriot Bogota. Both provide complimentary amenities such as an airport shuttle.
