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Bogor

Bogor is a city in the Bogor Raya region of Western Java, Indonesia. With almost a million inhabitants, modern Bogor is the 6th largest city of Jabodetabek (Greater Jakarta metropolitan area) and the 14th nationwide. In the Middle Ages, the city was the capital of Sunda Kingdom under name of Pakuan Padjajaran. Its name changed during the Dutch colonial period to Buitenzorg, meaning "without care" in Dutch. The city changed its name to "Bogor" during the Japanese occupation.

Originally a mountain resort town, it is now a densely populated city that is part of the Greater Jakarta metropolitan area. The city is most famous for its presidential palace and the extensive botanical gardens (Bogor Botanical Garden), which is one of the oldest in the world. The city is also famous nationwide for its education, especially in Agricultural Science.

Understand
Some 60 km south of Jakarta, Bogor is the "bo" of the massive Jabotabek conurbation. The city has a population close to 1,1 million (2018) people, and the regency that surrounds it has a population close to 5.1 million people (2014). The town was the capital of Indonesia during the brief British occupation, and under the name Buitenzorg was also the summer capital of the Dutch in the hot dry season. Located 290 meters above sea level, Bogor is noticeably cooler than the torrid lowlands, and the place where many of the Indonesian elite have their villas. Once a place of beauty, rapid development has turned central Bogor into the same congested mess as every other Indonesian city, but there are still rivers, canals, red-roofed houses, mosques, churches, trees, flowers and views of nearby Mount Salak.

 * Bogor Tourist Information Centre, ln Kapten Muslihat N0. 51 . Open daily from 08:00 - 19:00

History
What is now Bogor and its surroundings has been inhabited for centuries. According to a 5th-century stone inscription (Prasasti Ciaruteun), the Bogor region was part of the ancient Hindu kingdom of Tarumanagara, the earliest known kingdom in Java and one of the earliest states in present-day Indonesia.

After Tarumanagara was defeated by the neighbouring Srivijaya, the kingdom was succeeded by the Kingdom of Sunda. The kingdom reigned over much of western Java, and Bogor was chosen as its capital under name of "Pakuan Padjajaran". In old Sundanese, the name "Pakuan Padjajaran" means "a place between the parallel [rivers]".

It was one of the largest cities in medieval Java, with well over 48,000 inhabitants. After Sunda was defeated by the neighboring Sultanate of Banten, most of the area became neglected and remained mostly uninhabited for decades.

In the middle of the 17th century, the Sultanate of Banten was brought under the control of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The first temporal colonial settlement was a camp of lieutenant Tanoejiwa, a Sundanese employed by the VOC. Due to its relatively fertile soil, the Dutch transformed Pakuan into a plantation area. In a relatively short time, several agricultural settlements appeared around Pakuan, and, in 1701, these settlements were merged into a single administrative district. In 1744–1745, the residence of the Governor-General (now Bogor Palace) was built and became the seat of government during the summer.

In 1746, by the order of the Governor-General Gustaaf Willem van Imhoff, the Palace, a nearby Dutch settlement and nine native settlements were merged into an administrative division named Buitenzorg (Dutch for "beyond (or outside) concerns," meaning "without worries" or "carefree". Buitenzorg became the main summer getaway for Dutch colonials because of the beautiful plantations and surrounding mountains, and also because it was (and is) noticeably cooler than VOC's capital, Batavia (present-day Jakarta). Buitenzorg grew rapidly during the following years, and this growth was partly stimulated by the temporary occupation of the Dutch East Indies by the British in 1811–1815. The head of the British administration, Thomas Stamford Raffles, re-landscaped the garden near the palace into an English-style garden. This garden later became what is now known as the Bogor Botanical Garden. Raffles also moved the administrative center from Batavia to Buitenzorg and implemented new and more efficient management techniques.

Buitenzorg, along with the rest of the formerly Dutch colonial possessions they had occupied, were returned to Dutch rule under the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824. The Dutch continued to develop the regency and by the end of the 19th century, Buitenzorg became one of the most developed and Westernized cities in Indonesia.

During World War II, Japanese forces occupied Buitenzorg and the rest of Dutch East Indies. The city's name was changed to "Bogor" in an effort to gain support from Indonesian nationalists.

Today, Bogor has a significant role in the cultural, scientific and economic development of the country and West Java in particular – in part due to its colonial legacies such as infrastructure. Bogor also become a center of education, especially in Agricultural Science.

Local people
Bogor, like many parts of western Java, is inhabited by ethnic Sundanese people.They are overwhelmingly Muslims, but some pocket of ancient Javanese Hinduism still survives. More traditional Sundanese still adhere to Sunda Wiwitan, an ancient belief system. Their native language, the Sundanese language, is practically spoken by everyone here, along with Bahasa Indonesia. However due to the bilingual nature of the locals, learning Sundanese is not essential to communicate. Other ethnicities include considerable numbers of Betawi, Javanese, Chinese and others, often mixed ethnicities.

People in Bogor are extremely friendly and will go out of their way to help you. Be polite and smile, and it will get you far. English is not prevalent, but basic English is spoken by many in restaurants and in the local warung food-stalls.

If you are a Westerner be prepared for Indonesians asking you for a photo. Do not be shy. They just enjoy visitors to Bogor, and posing for a photo with a smile can make someone's day.

Climate
Bogor's epithet is Kota Hujan, meaning "City of Rain". Statistically, it's the rainiest city on Java, and locals jokingly advise getting any sightseeing done in the morning because it's guaranteed to rain in the afternoon. Then again, tramping through the Gardens can actually be more pleasant in a cool drizzle. Lovers of Bogor will tell you that most of the time it is dry; normally, the rain falls only in heavy bursts late in the day.

By plane
The nearest major international airport is Jakarta's Soekarno Hatta International Airport. There are direct Damri buses from there to Bogor Rp 55,000 every 30 min (1-2 hours, depending on traffic). If you charter a helicopter from Soekarno Hatta airport, you can request in advance for permission to land at Atang Senjaya airport, Bogor. This airport is a military base, but it may be used for civilian flights in the future.

By train
Bogor is the southern terminus of the yellow and red lines of Jakarta's commuter rail network (KA Commuter Jabodetabek). Both lines run from Jakarta via Depok to Bogor, with the red line trains originating at Kota station in West Jakarta, and the yellow line trains originating at Jatinegara station in East Jakarta. Trains of both lines call at several stations in South Jakarta as well, while red line trains call at Gondangdia station in Central Jakarta, near the famous backpacker's street Jalan Jaksa.

Daily intercity trains between Jakarta and Sukabumi (2h 15m, economy and executive class) call at Bogor Paledang railway station. In the mid 2020s a new LRT system will connect Bogor to Bekasi.

By bus
There are direct Damri buses from Jakarta's Soekarno Hatta International Airport to Bogor for Rp 55,000.

Buses also go to Bogor from Jakarta, Bandung, Sukabumi, Yogyakarta and even further cities like Malang.

Buses from Jakarta depart from Lebak Bulus, Kampung Rambutan and Kalideres bus terminals and take about 1-2 hours depending upon the traffic. There are two types of buses available: Executive (air conditioned) and Economy.

Buses from Bogor to Bandung takes about 3 hours. Executive buses use the Cipularang highway route while the Economy buses are still using the old route via Puncak Pass. During weekends they may take a loop through Sukabumi, adding an extra hour.

By car
The easiest way to get to Bogor is to hire a car and a driver; this is relatively cheap. Or, you can rent a car. There is more than one road to Bogor, and the minor roads are often the most interesting and congested. With Tol Jagorawi, Bogor is about 40 minutes to 1 hour from Jakarta. During traffic jam (rush hours), it may take significantly longer, and during weekends and holidays, the trip from Jakarta to Bogor may take even up to 3 hours. Tol Jagorawi is 48 km, and the exit to Bogor is at, or approximately, KM 40.

By taxi
You can take metered taxi to Bogor from Jakarta. The cost will be approx. Rp.250,000-500,000, plus toll road fees of about Rp.30,000. The trip may take up to 3 hours on old roads and 40 minutes to 1 hour on Tol Jagorawi, depending on the traffic. Be cautious during the rainy season (Nov - Mar) because the route to Bogor is subject to flash flooding. It's better to use bigger companies like the Blue Bird Group because with the biggest fleet between Jakarta and Bogor they are the most reliable.

Get around
There are many pleasant traffic-free walks in Bogor, alongside rivers and canals.

The traffic in Bogor is chaotic. There is a daily traffic jam in Bogor from early in the morning to late in the afternoon. On weekend and holiday, people from Jakarta often go to Bogor with their cars.

By minibus
The easiest way to get around Bogor is by angkot, little green minibuses, hordes of which infest Bogor's central streets. Any trip from anywhere to anywhere costs Rp 2,000, paid when you get off.

The downsides to using angkot are that the drivers are reckless and theft is all too common (guard your belongings). Also, some angkot like 02 or 03 only depart from their pangkalan (terminals) when full — 10 min on a good day on a busy route, 90 minutes on a bad day on an unpopular one.

By horse cart
Horse carts known as delman can be found in central Bogor, and it could be an option if you want to cruise around and take a look at the city. The poor beasts aren't very comfortable in the traffic scrum, though.

By taxi
Blue Bird Taxis operate in Bogor but prepared as they generally can turn up late or sometimes not at all, make sure you call 10 min after ordering to check it is coming. Allow an extra half an hour for your airport taxi. Ride-hailing-app services such as Go-Car (from Gojek) and Grab are also available.

See

Monuments

 * Tugukujang.jpg

Tourist mini bus
A half side open tourist minibus with capacity of 25 persons is called UNCAL or Unforgettable City Tour at Lovable City run a circle of Botanical Garden in one way direction for free. Start and finish at Botani Square.

Walking
There are many traffic-free walks by the side of rivers and canals. One is reminded, if one squints, of Venice in earlier days. One is likely to encounter colourful little houses and gardens, children flying kites, people bathing, vendors of snacks and spectacular views of Mount Salak. On the edge of Bogor one can walk beside rice fields and fruit orchards.

Markets
Most exciting are the traditional markets, filled with cheap clothing, toys, fruit, vegetables and the like. You should come every Sunday morning in Sempur for "in the morning" shopping while you have exercise. Tons of things and food for breakfast.

Shopping malls

 * Bogor Trade Mall, Jl. H. Juanda. Food court.
 * Eka Lokasari Plaza, Jl. Siliwangi 123. Food court.
 * Pangrango Plaza, Jl. Raya Pajajaran. Food court.
 * Bogor Plaza, Jl. Surya Kencana. Food court.
 * Bogor Plaza, Jl. Surya Kencana. Food court.

Eat
Bogor's local specialities include pickles (asinan) and grilled bean sprouts (tauge goreng).

 * De Daunan, east side of Botanical Gardens. Formerly Cafe Botanicus, serves up a mix of Dutch and Indonesian favorites, with lazy ceiling fans and a breezy veranda on a small hill looking over the garden. The rijsstaffel set is popular if a bit pricy at Rp 45,000.
 * Sotomie Ciseeng. Jl. Suryakencana No. 302. A type of noodle with beef tendons and deep fried chives.
 * Ngohiong, sold along Jl. Suryakencana. An originally Chinese dish (五香 wǔxiāng) made from flour and scraps of pork, deep fried and then served with tofu, fried potato wedges, a thick sweet sauce and pickles. Halal (non pork) version of the dish may also be available.
 * Gang Selot, at Jl. Ir Juanda, next to SMU Negeri 1 Bogor. This is a good place for a food lover. Various food outlets with very cheap price.

Drink
Indomart, Alfamart, and Circle K convenient stores are selling beer, and you can find one on almost every street. The sale of spirits of any kind in a retail establishment is against the law. Circle K is your best bet for a cold beer, and you may have to ask at the counter at Alfamart, which has been known to hide them on shelves in the stock room.

Stay safe
Bogor is called the 'rain city' due to the fact that Bogor gets more rain than all other cities in Java. Strong winds can occur once or twice a year with speeds of more than 100 km/h for one or two minutes, but never exceeding 200 km/h. Beware of collapsing trees. In January 2015, 4 people died and 21 people were injured when an 8-m long tree, 1.5 m in diameter tumbled and struck employees of one company when they were gathering in Kebun Raya Bogor.

Connect
The telephone area code of Bogor is 0251.

Go next

 * Puncak — highlands and tea plantations along the road to Bandung.
 * Citarik River - there are two white water rafting companies on this river about 2 hr out of Bogor on the Cikidang Road (turn right off Jalan Sukabumi after the petrol station). These companies are on the way to the beach in West Java, at Pelabuan Ratu. Great river all year round, but peak season is strangely the dry season (May–August), it gets more fun in the wet season, but more unpredictable. Great boats and good fun to be had, plus some bungalows by the river for sleeping.
 * Taman Safari (20 km east of Bogor towards Bandung) has an impressive drive-through zoo with lions, tigers, hippos, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, as well as plenty of other animals is well-kept large enclosures. There are also some amusement park attractions for children, a water park, a baby zoo, as well as conventional zoo exhibitions including penguins, snakes, kangaroos and Komodo dragons. A very well maintained zoo and a much better than other zoos found in the region. Admission is around Rp 100,000 per person. When visiting with children reserve a full day, but 3 hr is sufficient.
 * Sukabumi
 * Pelabuhan Ratu

title: Bogor


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Bogotá

Bogotá, officially Bogotá D.C, is the capital of Colombia. One of the world's mega-cities, Bogotá is a global center for finance, politics, culture, shopping, media, and entertainment. The city is a vibrant metropolis with thousands of things to do, see, and discover, including world-class museums and restaurants, glittering skyscrapers and vast financial centers, 500-year-old mansions, palaces, and historic churches. There are over 75 performing arts venues spread throughout the city, including the renowned Teatro Colon. For those who love outdoor activities, Bogotá is home to the Parque Metropolitano Simon Bolivar, the largest urban park in the Americas, and has over 500 km of urban bike paths. The city is always awake, always alive, and most of all, always full of energy.

Boroughs
One of the planet's largest cities, Bogotá is divided into 20 localities or boroughs (localidades), and every visit to this city should include at least four or five of them, depending on the purpose and extent of your travel. The district division in this guide partly deviates from the official division.

The "must-sees" include La Candelaria, Chapinero-Zona T, the Zona Rosa, Teasaquillo-Ciudad Salitre, and Usaquen. A little extra time to explore La Macarena in Santa Fé, Parque 93, and Usaquén's colonial center would be time well spent.

Understand
With a population of 15 million people, Bogota DC sits approximately 2,640 m (8,660 feet) above sea level in the Colombian Andes region. Its climate is cool year-round. Orientation is relatively easy, as the mountains located in the eastern parts of the city, are generally visible from most parts of the city.

Asides from being one of Latin America's great capital cities, Bogota is also one of the most modern, multicultural, and cosmopolitan cities on Earth. To understand the sheer size of this vast metropolis, consider that Mexico City and New York City are the only North American cities larger than the capital district. Bogota is the second most populous Spanish speaking city in the World and the fifth largest metropolitan area in the Western hemisphere.

Bogota is a city of many layers, and as such it offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its visitors. Described by the New York Times as one of the world's “greatest cities”', prepare to find a hectic balance between the new and the old; the avant-garde, the modern, and the historic. Encounter 500-year-old plazas overshadowed by towering skyscrapers. Find peaceful tree-lined bicycle routes running through the center dividers of 8-lane avenues. From internationally recognized universities and educational institutions to being one of the globe's leading financial, political, and cultural capitals, Bogota houses an endless number of museums, public parks, and cultural activities. Being the global and regional seat of hundreds of multinational companies, Bogotá is one of the planet's official capitals for business dealings. The city's exposure to European, North American, Middle-Eastern, and Asian influences, brought about by immigrants who came to the city from various parts of the world, ensures that anything from traditional dishes to a renowned steak or sushi restaurant can be found.

The capital district isn't just a city, it's a world within a city. Its Festivals and public parks have earned Bogota international medals and prizes (Such as the UNESCO world city of culture), its museums and cultural institutions including the world's largest gold museum and one of the largest performing arts centers in the western hemisphere, have earned it the name  "The Athens of South America '' . The city's ability to create and innovate, as well as to implement technological solutions to global problems have brought Bogota international renown, and its prowess in re-imagining mass-transportation systems on a global scale have placed it on the international stage for innovation and leadership. Many of Bogota's more than 200 public libraries, including the Virgilio Barco, designed by master architect Rogelio Salmona, are among the globe's largest and most renowned libraries, which earned Bogota the title of "world book capital". In addition to its vast network of public libraries and museums, the city also houses the largest business and events center in the continent, being the host to major events including the 2023 world business forum which be held in Bogota in October. The capital district also possesses the largest vertical garden in the planet as well as the globes's most extensive bus rapid-transit system, all of which earned Bogota the title of the Planet's "green capital" in 2016, and the planet's most eco-friendly city in 2018. Author and poet Gabriel Garcia Marquez rightfully described Bogota as "a beautiful and complex city, a world capital in its own right".

Bogotá's 20 boroughs are divided into 6 geographical sections: The downtown hosts many of the city's most important historical zones including the Historic Center home to The national capitol, the presidential palace, the palace of justice, as well as multiple Government offices, many of Bogota's major museums and monuments, as well as the majority of foreign embassies and consulates. It is also the Capital’s district cultural hub home to hundreds of theaters, art galleries, and festivals year-wide. The Northeast: Traditionally where the wealthiest boroughs in the city are located and home to a population of 3 million people this area combines many of the city's most expensive shopping and entertainment districts including Zona Rosa, Zona T, and Parque del Virrey, as well as multiple high-rise residential and business buildings surrounded by vast parks and monuments. The Northwest is a highly innovative area, and it is also the place where many modern developments have taken place and combines many upscale residences with affluent shopping centers, boutiques, cafes, and nightclubs. The northwest is also a hub for tech and financial companies, as well as the seat of many new business neighborhoods offering headquarters to multinational corporations. Central Bogota-Teusaquillo  is a huge area located in the geographical center of Bogota, home to nearly a quarter of the capital district's 12 million inhabitants, this area houses multiple universities including the National University of Colombia, Bogotá's major sporting venues and outdoor parks, as well as the headquarters for various financial and tech companies. This is a melting pot for Bogotanos of all boroughs and social statuses. The Southwest has a mix of working-class and high-class neighborhoods, home to various office buildings, public parks, civic centers, libraries, and business zones, as well as some of the city's largest shopping malls and the hemisphere’s largest fair and event center; Agora and Corferias. The Southeast is where the city's largest working-class neighborhoods are found. Multiple industrial zones and businesses are located in this area. It was once referred to as the poorest section of the city, although recent administrations have investments millions of dollars in increasing the southeast’s infrastructure as well as its productivity and innovation levels. Now this borough is an increasingly creative district in the city, famous for its inventive artists and musicians.

Due to the city's exponential growth, many neighboring cities such as Chia, Soacha and Mosquera have been absorbed and are now considered within the metropolitan area of Greater Bogotá.

Bogotá has had some mayors who have become darlings of the international "urbanist" community with eminently quotable lines and pro-cycling pro-public transit and - arguably - anti-car policies. First and foremost was Enrique Peñalosa (Mayor 1998–2001 and 2016–2019) who is famous for saying "An advanced city is not one where even the poor move about in cars but one where even the rich use public transit". Under his mandate, the world's largest Bus-rapid transit system "TransMilenio" and the "TransMiCable" gondola lift system were inaugurated in Bogota. The current mayor, Claudia López Hernández, who assumed office January 1, 2020, is again of a leftish-green bent. She ran on a platform of "metro, metro and more metro," promising to bring the decades-long-planned Bogotá metro to fruition. She has continued Peñalosa's policies of shutting down major streets to car traffic on public holidays and Sundays or even week-round under a project called the "Ciclovía" ("cycle way"), which is a popular mode of recreation and transportation for millions of citizens of Bogotá. In the course of the 2019-2020 Coronavirus pandemic, López Hernández expanded the Ciclovía even further, to much public acclaim.

By plane
The city is served by   (~20 minutes from downtown in a taxi), that receives several flights daily from New York City, Washington D.C., Atlanta Airport, Houston, Miami Airport, Orlando Airport, Fort Lauderdale, Paris Charles de Gaulle, São Paulo, Madrid Barajas, Barcelona El Prat, Frankfurt airport, Mexico City Benito Juarez, San José (CR) / Alajuela, Lima, Buenos Aires, Panamá City Tocumen Airport, Quito, Guayaquil, Oranjestad (Aruba), Willemstad (Curaçao) and Toronto among others. Travelers can also take advantage of the convenient connections and direct flights from Los Angeles, Washington, Santo Domingo, San Juan, Punta Cana, Valencia (Venezuela), La Habana, Montego Bay, London, Frankfurt and Orlando. International airlines include JetBlue, United, Delta, Iberia, Air France, Lufthansa, Air Canada, American Airlines, LATAM, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Spirit, Aeromexico, Air Europa, Albatros Airlines, JetSmart, LASER Airlines, Sky Airline, Turkish Airlines, Viva Air Peru, and Wingo.

Domestic flights are served by many airlines including Avianca (main Colombian airline), LATAM, Viva, Wingo, Satena and EasyFly. Domestic flights of Avianca are served from the Puente Aéreo terminal, next to El Dorado terminal, and features WiFi access to the Internet from almost every location. There are more than 20 daily flights from the 2 airports in Medellín, over 15 daily flights from Cali and more than 10 from Cartagena. Domestic flights to Bogotá are among the 50 busiest flight routes on earth and heavy competition can net you cheap fares. Taxis are regulated, reasonably priced and safe from the airport. El Dorado is also the third busiest airport in Latin America and the largest by cargo movement.

To get out from the airport into the city there are a couple of options:
 * 1) Regulated taxis. You first have to search for a stand where you will have to point out your destination and then they will print out a ticket indicating the price you will have pay. Then, pick up a taxi from the line and explain to the driver your destination. At the end of the journey you will have to pay only what is printed out in the ticket.
 * 2) Transmilenio. You can only use the bus system if you have small luggage - you might not be allowed into the stations if you are carrying big suitcases. To get out the airport without having the public transport card, take the bus line "16-14". It's a green bus that brings you for free to the bus station "Portal El Dorado".  There buy the Tullave card before going through the turnstile. People with Transmilenio or blue SITP jackets are ready to help (although most of them do not speak English - bring your Spanish phrasebook or use Google Translate). The bus station has WiFi. A lot of bus lines depart from that bus station, you may be able to reach your destination in Bogota with a direct connection.

By bus
The safety of bus travel in Colombia has greatly improved. However, foreigners should be cautious not to travel to areas of unrest and travel only during the day. Do not carry large amounts of cash with you as robberies are known to occur along some routes. Service in the 'upscale' buses are very good and they are very comfortable. Pick the most expensive service (just a couple of dollars extra) as these buses tend to be newer and in better mechanical condition.

Buses run in and out of Bogotá's main station,. The station is clean and has standard amenities. Located at Dg 23, No 69-59, several bus companies have regular routes to destinations around the country. To get there from the airport, you can take a short taxi ride.

Take into consideration that most of the restaurants serving within the terminal can be expensive by Colombian standards, but well served. In case of need, it may be advisable to order a dish for 2 people or just to check places around the station.

The Terminal is divided in several color-coded areas that indicate the destinations to which companies in that area travel to: Yellow = South, Blue = East and West, Red = North and International, Purple = Arrivals.

In additional to the above, the same governmental agency that operates the main bus station (Terminal La Salitre) also operates satellite stations in the north part of town and another in the south part of town which may be closer to your point of origin or final destination in Bogota:
 * along Autopista Sur at Carrera 59 in La Bosa, in the south side of town.
 * on Calle 192, #19-43 off of Ave Carrera 45 north of town.

There are multiple bus lines serving El Terminal de Transporte de Bogotá (Terminal Salitre) and one or both of the other stations in the north or south part of town. The below are the major bus lines connecting Bogota to Medellin and to other cities north and east (Cartagena, Santa Marta, Monteria, Bucaramanga, etc) towards the Caribbean coast and the Venezuelan border:

Other companies that go to multiple cities and towns in the southern part of the country, connecting Bogota to Medellin and to other cities west and south (Armenia, Cali, Manizales, Florence, Ipiales, Neiva, Palmira, etc.) towards the Ecuadorian border and the Pacific coast. Some may offer onward international service into Ecuador and Peru: In addition to the above, there are also numerous other bus lines connecting Bogota to other cities at varying distances.

By car
The below is distance chart as to how far and how much time it is to travel between Bogota and other major cities by car or by bus on the main highways:

By train
There are no proper intercity trains in Colombia. However touristic steam trains, operated by Turistren, connects Bogotá with the city of Zipaquirá several times per week.

A regional railway system is expected to be launched by 2024.

By e-hailing
InDrive, Uber, Cabify and Didi cover the city. As of November 2015, Uber rides can take a while to reach you, particularly if you are in the La Candelaria area. You can also use Uber app to hail a taxi. Note that while rideshare apps are commonly used, they are officially illegal in Colombia, so drivers can be hesitant to drive to places where they may be hassled by police (e.g. bus stations). Drivers may ask you to sit in front so that you appear to be a "friend" of the driver instead of taking a passenger for profit through a ride-hailing app.

By taxi
While ubiquitous and affordable – the local yellow taxis are arguably the most visible representative to the world of Bogotá's worst side. Travelers used to being cheated by taxi drivers probably aren't yet acquainted with the paseo millionario, or "Millionaire Ride," where a taxi driver swings by to pick up well-armed accomplices who then rob you, possibly drug you, and almost certainly take you to multiple ATMs to forcibly withdraw a large sums of money. This rather extreme practice is actually pretty common. Taxis should not be hailed off the street—only called through dispatch. Nice restaurants and any place of lodging will be happy to do this for you, and will express genuine concern if they think you are going to try to hail one. Otherwise, call one yourself at 599-9999, 311-1111 or 411-1111. Sometimes it can take a while to get one, though, so it's good to have a back up. If public transit isn't your thing, consider keeping a private car service on hand. They are pretty good deal for the money, when all is considered, and your hotel or business should be able to recommend one.

If calling for a taxi, the driver will want to confirm that it is you who called by asking for a "clave" (key), which is always the last two digits of the phone from which you called to request the taxi. Each taxi has a meter which should increment one tick every 1/10 km or 30 seconds and starts at 25 ticks. The rate chart is printed on a card in the taxi. Nearly all taxi drivers will try to take advantage of you in one way or another; be sure the taxi meter is started when you begin your trip. Tipping is never necessary—be sure to count your change and be on the lookout for both counterfeit coins and notes. There are surcharges for the airport, holidays, and nights (after 8PM). Surcharge details are printed on the fare card. There is a surcharge for ordering a taxi arriving at your house and one for after 8PM, even if you are starting your trip before that time. Holidays and Sundays are also surcharged. Lock the doors of the taxi, especially after dark. If you experience a problem in a taxi or with the driver, dial 123 to report a complaint with the police. You should also call the company with which the taxi is registered.

Please note that English proficiency generally tends to be poor all across Colombia, including Bogotá, so have your hotel staff write the destination in Spanish before taking a taxi.

In other hand If you are interested in a more private and professional option, you can hire a Shuttle Service. This kind of services often have wide range of vehicles and can be paid by credit card so you won't have to worry about carrying cash all the time.

By Transmilenio

Bogota's rapid bus service, the Transmilenio is extremely affordable, clean and efficient. It carries commuters to numerous corners of the city in exclusive lanes, bypassing the notorious city traffic. Tickets cost COP$2,950 (Oct 2023) for Transmilenio buses & cable cars and COP$2,750 for SITP buses. You must buy a rechargeable card at any Transmilenio station beforehand for COP$7,000 (Oct 2023). Recharging the card must also be done at a Transmilenio station.

If you have WiFi or a data plan, the easiest way to find a connection is using an app like Google Maps, Moovit (also available in English) or Transmilenio y SITP (has a bit more info).

Riders should keep a close eye on their pockets and avoid flashing expensive items, as there is a moderate risk of pick-pocketing, particularly during peak hours or at night.

The vehicles used in that systems are articulated buses; they are fast and safe, but could be full during the afternoon times. The system also uses different kinds of stations: the simples offers bus services at the right and left sides (north-south;east-west) and the intermediates are usually located in middle points and have complete services, such as elevators, station libraries, bikes parks, restrooms. Alimentadores services (buses that reach zones the articulated buses do not) and the portals, the nine arrival and departure places of the buses, are located near the entrances to the city. Service ends 10–11PM, depending on the station. Intercity buses from the metropolitan area also arrive at these stations.

The sheer number of bus numbers is quite intimidating, but has a simple logic to it. There are actually only ten routes, demarcated by letters (and names, but don't worry about that). J and L routes will take you into the historic/political center, with J buses even stopping right at the Gold Museum. B buses will take you up through the North, with Calle 85 being the closest stop to the popular Zona Rosa, B buses take you to Portal del Norte, where you can catch inter-city buses up to Zipaquirá (for the Salt Cathedral). K buses head out towards the airport.

The system, being one of the world's leading examples of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), runs in dedicated lanes with stations containing offboard fare collection and level boarding, giving it a similar experience to rail without the high capital costs of rail.

By gondola lift
The TransMiCable inaugurated in 2018 is a gondola lift that takes passengers from the TransMilenio stop  to  in the Ciudad Bolivar district.

Another cable-car of primarily touristic transportation value is the Teleférico de Monserrate.

By bus
Privately owned buses cruise all the main thorough fares and many side streets, and are the principal form of transport for the working class and student class. Though they do follow specific routes, they do not have bus "stops"; you merely call to them like taxis and they will stop for you where you are standing. Placards in the large front windows list destinations, either neighborhoods or main street names. Upon entering you will be asked for the fare; if you are not traveling alone you may be asked "Para ambos?", for example, meaning "For both?", to see if you are paying for just yourself or for your companion. Then you pass through a turnstile to the seating areas. The buses come in three sizes, usually, long (like a school bus), medium and small (called busetas). All have turnstiles. To exit these buses, you go to the back door and either push a button located usually on one of the hand rails or next to the exit, or simply call out "Aqui, por favor!" (Here, please!) or "Pare!" (Stop!). Passengers are often expected to embark and disembark even from the middle of the street.

Sometimes vendors are allowed to enter the buses to sell candy or small gift items (occasionally donating one to the driver for the privilege). Or, you may find entertainers such as singers or guitar players, and even the more creative of the street beggars who will regale you with a long, poetic story of their sad situation before asking for donations. Even in the smallest buses, cramped full of people standing and sitting, it is a common sight. A Grammy-nominated singer named Ilona got her start performing on buses around Bogotá.

You can plan which bus you need to take ahead of time using a combination of Google maps (which shows stops and bus lines) and the SITP website, though that works only for SITP buses.

By colectivo
Colectivos cover practically every major route of the city, and can generally be flagged down at any point on a main road. Watch these small buses for lists of destinations displayed on their windshields, or ask the driver (in Spanish) if he passes the neighborhood or intersection you are going to. Not very comfortable, but they are faster than a common bus and it's also used as a shuttle for routes that don't have so much affluence, it can take you almost anywhere.

By bicycle
Bogotá has Latin America's largest network of bicycle routes, called 'Ciclorutas.' On Sundays and public holidays, many main and secondary roads are closed to cars for the Ciclovia from 7AM-2PM, a special feature of Bogotá, where people can run, bicycle, inline skate or just watch from the side. There are refreshment stands along the way and most parks host some type of event such as yoga, dancing, stretching, spinning, etc. To get a bicycle you can rent a bike or going for a guided bike tour on Bogota's Ciclorutas or participating in the Ciclovia are fun and healthy ways to get to know the city, and to get closer to the people.

Orientation
Something that usually greatly surprise tourists and newcomers to Bogota DC is that the city's streets, boulevards, and avenues are rarely named; rather they are referred to as Carreras and calles counted from the geographical center of the city northwards and southwards, with few exeptions to this rule being the Avenida El Dorado (El dorado avenue), Avenida Jiminez de Quesada (Jiminez de Quesada avenue), and the Autospistas norte y sur (Northern and southern highways).

The capital district is built on a Cartesian coordinate grid system. Although the original city of Bogota in the 1500s (now the Historic Center of the metropolis) was designed as a perfect square, whose center would be the Plaza de Bolivar and would be crossed from north to south by the Calle real (now carrera septima), massive urban growth in the 18th 19th and 20th centuries due to immigrants coming from all over the world and the country, made the original shape of the city change. Now nearly 500 years after its founding, Bogota DC is a booming metropolis over 1,000 times its original size. The city has grown to such an extent that it has absorbed various neighboring cities such as Usaquen, Chapinero, Usme, and Suba, Chia, and Soacha into the Greater Bogota Metropolitan area that now houses a population of over 15 million people (one of the largest metro areas in the world). Bogota has been transformed from a small town of 100,000 people in the 1600s to a thriving and modern global city composed of millions of inhabitants from all over the country and the world. Although this change has been immensely positive, it has also resulted in the original layout of the city being changed. Now Bogota resembles more of a rectangle than a square, composed of the same Cartesian coordinate system, but with some irregular blocks, twisting streets, and diagonals cutting across what is supposed to be a perfect grid. The original Historic center of the city is now more to the south-east of the city, rather than at the geographical center of the city. The apparently straightforward street address system designed by the original founders of Bogota hundreds of years ago, has historically been more of a guideline as to where things are than a precise way to get to places. In the 1950s an update of the street addresses in much of the city was directed towards solving certain inconsistencies in getting around some areas of the city. Most places that tourists tend to visit, have been quite easy to find since that time.

Carreras (roads) are abbreviated as Cr., Kra., and Cra. and run parallel to the mountains from south to north. Carrera numbers increase from east to west, away from the mountains - so Carrera 7 is near the mountains and Carrera 100 is far from them - except for a very few carreras near the mountains that increase in reverse order and that have names like "Carrera 1 E" ('E' standing for east).

Calles (streets) cross the carreras and run from east to west. Calles are abbreviated as Cll. and Cl. For half of the city (the northern half tourists are most likely to visit) calle numbers increase from south to north - so Calle 13 is near the center of the city, whereas Calle 250 is one the last streets before exiting Bogota on the northern side. Calles in the southern half work similarly to 'east' carreras near the mountains: the southern calle numbers increase from north to south, mirroring streets in the northern half. These are called things like "Calle 85 S" ('S' standing for south).

Aside from calles and carreras, there are 'diagonales' and 'transversales'. As their names suggest, they are not perfectly parallel to calles and carreras. However, the same numbering system applies to them. Diagonales are supposed to be deviations from calles, whereas transversales are supposed to be deviations from carreras. So, for example, Diagonal 107 runs sort of east-west and is somewhere around Calle 106 or 108.

Avenidas, abbreviated as Av. or Ave., are usually larger, main streets. Geographically speaking, most avenidas somehow fit into one the four categories mentioned above, although some avenidas twist around. They usually have a classification and number as described above, but they also have a distinct name, like "Avenida Suba", "Avenida Boyacá" and whatnot. So, for example, Avenida Jiménez is a main street and, in the number system, is also called Calle 13.

Each address consists of a street and a series of numbers. For example, Calle 45 No. 24-15 (sometimes written as CL 45 # 24 - 15 or CL 45 24 15), means (1) the location is on Calle 45, (2) of the two intersecting carreras nearby, the one with the lower number is Carrera 24 (since in this case we are talking about carreras, it means the nearest carrera to the east of the location; if we were talking about calles, it would be the nearest calle to the south of the location), and (3) the location is roughly 15 meters from the intersection of Calle 45 and Carrera 24. Furthermore, since the last number, 15, is odd, the location is on the southern side of Calle 24 (if the location were on a carrera, it would be on the west side of it). Even numbers at the end have the opposite meaning.

See
Many landmark events in the history of Colombian and South American independence took place in La Candelaria, the historic mid-16th-century colonial neighborhood that hosts the national government, including the near killing and escape of Simon Bolivar, the execution of revolutionary heroine Policarpa Salavarrieta, known as 'La Pola,' and the Grito de Libertad, known as the beginning of the region's revolution. The district is teeming with history, and there are a lot of interesting museums (arguably the best being the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum) and old churches. Some of its lovely streets are pedestrian-only. The most important places are Catedral Primada and Palacio de Nariño on Plaza de Bolívar, Iglesia del Carmen, Biblioteca Luis A Arango, the Colonial Art Museum, and the colonial architecture of the houses and buildings. Almost all the museums are free. La Candelaria also contains numerous Catholic churches, many of them centuries-old. The Colombian-American and Colombian-French cultural centers are located in La Candelaria, and a Colombian-Spanish cultural center is under construction.

Outside La Candelaria, the most famous site is up the mountains over Santa Fé at the Sanctuary of Monserrate, which you can see from virtually any place in the city. Take the funicular up, or if you are feeling brave and athletic, hike it. Santa Fé also is home to the National Museum and the Modern Art Museum.

The northern neighborhoods that are so popular for dining and nightlife really don't have all that much to see, in terms of traditional sightseeing, aside from the small colonial center in Usaquén. The park known as Parque 93 is rather pretty, though.

There are a couple interesting sights in Ciudad Salitre, for those either staying out there or those with plenty of time, including the Botanical Gardens and the Maloka Science Center.

Downtown Day Tour
Popular among visitors are the historic Downtown and La Candelaria neighborhood. In fact most affordable lodging and dining options can be found this side of town making it highly desirable by low-budget travelers and backpackers, given its close location to many of the city's attractions. Start your way on Carrera Septima (7) and Calle 16, just arriving Parque Santander. Take the opportunity to visit the world famous Museo del Oro, or Gold Museum for its legendary El Dorado collections. Then continue south one block up to Avenida Jimenez and give your camera a workout at one of Bogota's most famous and historic intersections, where a couple of ancient churches and 19th century buildings collide. Turn east (towards the mountains) and walk up Avenida Jimenez alongside downtown's famous Eje Ambiental or Environmental Axis, which is a section of the avenue that has been closed off to vehicles except Transmilenio, to make way for a generous tree-lined pedestrian sidewalk and an enclosed water stream. Many historic and famous buildings are located alongside the Eje Ambiental, home to Bogota's most renowned and traditional companies like El Tiempo and the Bank of the Republic. A few blocks east just past the Parque de los Periodistas the Eje Ambiental starts bending northwise, so leave the axis and turn south instead via one of the small streets that branch into the neighborhood and make your way up to Calle 12b and Carrera 2, el Chorro de Quevedo, unofficial center of La Candelaria, where it is argued that the City of Bogota was founded back in 1538. Today, bohemian life meets to enjoy arts, culture and music at this spot. On the way make sure to take in the whimsical coloring and architecture of the neighborhood's streets and colonial houses. Continue on Carrera 2 southward a couple of blocks up until Calle 11, and turn west once again just in front of La Salle University: You'll be glad you do since you've been climbing constantly eastward so enjoy your walk back down. Make sure to notice the eccentric street names found on picturesque signs at every corner. Make your way down west on Calle 11 and you will pass by the Museo Botero, museum showcasing some of famous Colombian painter Botero's private art collection and work. Another block down is the Centro Cultural Garcia Marquez, modern cultural center and venue that includes Library, Art Galleries, concert halls and lesson rooms, with year-round events and displays for all tastes and audiences interested in culture and the arts. Continue down west and reach the Plaza de Bolivar, the city's overwhelming main square surrounded by neoclasic government palaces and the Catedral Primada, largest church in the country. After taking in the many sights, you might want to leave the square southbound for a couple of blocks on Carrera Septima to check out the Presidential Palace and its Presidential Guard. Finally turn around back Carrera Septima northward until you find Transmilenio, just about where you started!

Performances and festivals

 * On some Friday nights, parts of Avenida Septima are closed in the Centro and you can see all sorts of street performers, live music, magic shows, buy crafts and street food. If you don't mind crowds its worth a visit.
 * Check out the Iberoamerican Theater Festival, the biggest theater festival in the world (occurs every two years during Easter Week).

Other activities

 * Catch a football (soccer) game at El Campin Stadium. Easily accessible by Transmillenio and with a capacity of 48,000 spectators, it hosts games for the Colombian international squad as well as for professional league home teams Millionarios and Santa Fe. Avoid the north and south section for these home games which are populated by rival supporter groups; instead get a ticket for the eastern or western wings.
 * Take a cab or Transmilenio to a working-class neighborhood in the southside. Sit down in a 'panaderia' (bakery), order a "colombiana" brand soda and some good bread. Sit down and breathe the environment of the regular Colombian. Don't narrow yourself to the upscale Norte. Since picking out one of these neighborhoods can be dangerous, the best ones to do so: Santa Isabel, 20 de Julio, The Tunal area.
 * Go to Parque Simon Bolivar and chill like rolos (Bogota citizens) do, walk around the city's biggest park or ride the train.

Outside of Bogotá
Consider an excursion to Zipaquirá with its impressive Catedral de Sal. Shared or private guided tours can be booked in hotels/hostels or you can go there by bus or train.

Learn
Bogotá has numerous educational institutions. Some of the top universities include the National University, Universidad de los Andes, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Universidad del Rosario, Universidad Externado, Universidad Santo Tomas, Universidad de la Sabana and Universidad de la Salle. However, there are many privately and publicly funded universities and schools.

If you want to learn Spanish, universities are a good option since they have all inclusive plans. They not only offer Spanish courses but also Mandarin, Japanese, French, German, Italian, etc. Also, many embassies have institutions that teach languages, such as the Centro Colombo Americano, the British Council, The Italian Institute, Goethe Institut, The French Alliance and the Brazil-Colombia Cultural Institute (IBRACO).

If you are looking for a more personalized education you can look for some of the Spanish schools in Bogota. Some of them are: Relato, Whee Institute (non-profit) and Spanish World Institute Bogotá.

Talk
The Spanish spoken in Bogotá is considered among the most neutral and clear in the world. If you know the basics, you'll probably be fine. Bogotá is full of English academies and bilingual schools, so English is spoken by many people. The most "touristy" areas are full of young students who go to bilingual schools, and generally, they will help you translate. Colombians love to show off the best of their country to reduce the negative image it has among foreigners.

Work
It is illegal to work in Colombia without a proper working visa. Visas can be obtained by employers on your behalf.

There is also a significant market for English and other language teachers.

Buy
Local products worth bringing home include :
 * Inexpensive handicrafts and silver jewelry from vendors. One of the cheapest and picturesque places to buy handicrafts is Pasaje Rivas (Calle 9 no. 9). You can access the narrow hall filled with small stores crossing Plaza de Bolívar, where de Major's and president's office is located.
 * Coffee-based products
 * Leather handbags, shoes, and wallets.
 * Uncut and cut emeralds brought in from the world's best emerald mines

In Usaquen you can find a huge flea market on Sundays.

Malls
The nicest malls in town are generally in the North, in Usaquén and the east of Suba: Unicentro, Hacienda Santa Barbara, Santa Ana, Palatino, Cedritos, Santafé and Parque la Colina, Iserra 100, Bulevar Niza.

The chicest area of Bogota, Zona T in the district of Chapinero, is surrounded by the upscale malls of Andino, Atlantis Plaza and El Retiro which holds various upscale boutiques such as Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Gucci, Loewe and many more.

More Affordable Shopping Malls : Downtown: San Martín, Calima'''. West and Northwest:''' Gran Estación, Salitre Plaza, Hayuelos, Metrópolis, Plaza Imperial, Unicentro de Occidente, Titán Plaza. South: Plaza de las Américas, Centro Mayor.

Eat
Bogotá's varied gastronomy includes Michelin-starred restaurants serving traditional and innovative Colombian dishes and other cuisines from all corners of the globe.

Local food
Arepas: Corn flour based pancakes, sometimes made with cheese or slightly salted. Empanadas: The closest comparison would be pastries. These are popular all over South America, so generally each country/region has their own recipe. The filling usually consists of meat, potato, vegetables and rice wrapped in a corn flour crust.

Tamal: Usually eaten for breakfast. A mixture of meat, chicken, potato, vegetables and yellow corn wrapped in plantain leaves and then boiled. Should be accompanied by a large mug of hot chocolate.

Ajiaco: Traditional thick soup based on three kinds of potatoes, chicken, avocado, dairy cream, herbs, corn, among others, usually eaten for Christmas and other important festivals. Typically from the altiplano region, and considered the city's official dish.

Pizza and burgers. OK, can we really call these traditional Bogotá meals? One could surmise they're from here, seeing their omnipresence. The city does both quite well, and you just need to do a 360° turn to find some.

Casual dining
Options are many for casual dining, unsurprisingly for a Latin American city of seven million people. Bogotanos love food from all over, so you'll find a good mix of Colombian food, as well as cheap food from North America (especially pizza and burgers!) and Asia. Note that the Chinese food is almost always Colombianized, which can be pretty good anyway, but is almost never the real deal. Sushi is likewise easy to find, but usually of below-average quality. The clear exception is (upscale) Wok, which has several locations, and for a North American-price will serve you top-notch sushi and other authentic East and Southeast Asian dishes.

For lunch, definitely try a corrientazo—a small eatery that is only open for lunch, serving people on their lunch break a delicious full meal, with soup, fresh squeezed fruit juice, a meat dish, several starch offerings, and usually additional fruit on the side. You'll know corrientazos by their well-advertised and extremely limited menu, which often consists of only one available main course! Best options are usually traditional ajiaco, bandeja paisa, or fish. Sometimes the advertisement is just "almuerzo" (lunch) on a cardboard sign. Prices are astoundingly low. You can ask a local, where a corrientazo nearby is.

Rotisserie chicken is usually not far away, often called chicken "broaster," and is just fabulous. They'll pass you plastic gloves to wear while you eat it to keep your fingers clean.

If constant meat and starch isn't your thing, the more popular neighborhoods have lots of places just selling fruit and fruit juice/smoothies, often selling ice cream too. The fruit in Colombia is outstanding, and the juice bars are unbelievably cheap.

And there's always Crepes & Waffles, a ubiquitous Bogotá chain that—with such a focus—can't help but be great.

Restaurants
There are a few dedicated gourmet zones, the most impressive of which is Zona G (G for Gourmet). It's a quiet, residential-looking neighborhood jam packed with absolutely incredible, world-class restaurants. Other places to look for high-end dining are (naturally) the Zona Rosa, as well as Parque 93, the La Macarena neighborhood of Santa Fé, and a little further afield in Usaquén.

For dining with a view, there are two restaurants up at Monserrate that are not at all tourist traps—they are excellent, modern, high-end restaurants. Just outside the city on the road to La Calera is Tramonti, another mountaintop restaurant less-known to tourists, but done up like a Swiss mountain chalet and perfect for watching the sunset and the lights come on.

For specific suggestions regarding restaurants have a look into the dedicated district articles of Bogota.

Drink
Nightlife in Bogotá is very diverse, and you can almost certainly find whatever experience it is you are looking for. There are English pubs, Latin dance halls, electronic music clubs, quiet storefront bars, wacky themed clubs, salsa clubs, a huge indie-rock scene (if Cali is salsa, Bogotá is rock n' roll), megaclubs, cocktail lounges, etc.

The cosmopolitan side of Bogotá nightlife is overwhelmingly to be found in Zona Rosa and Bogotá/Parque 93. It's a little more spread out and sparse, but you'll find similar places in Chapinero Central, Usaquén, and even Santa Fé and La Candelaria. Chapinero Central and La Candelaria tend to be more bohemian/hipster/artsy/young. Chapinero is also the center of gay nightlife.

Sleep
Because of the low temperatures at night you don't need air conditioning. If you are going to stay in Bogota, keep in mind the location; Most low-budget visitors choose to stay in La Candelaria, the colonial neighborhood in the center of the city. There are many cheap, nice hostels where you can meet travelers from all around the world. The historic district as well as all the major museums and some nightlife options are within walking distance. The deserted neighborhood streets are unsafe after dark on weeknights, though. Pressure from neighborhood groups to oust the remaining criminals has caused police presence to increase but you must always remain cautious. Check the location very carefully before you choose a place to stay, security is worse in the tiny deserted streets uphill and closer to Egypto neighborhood.

You'll find several hotels in the upscale northern districts like the Zona Rosa, Parque 93, as well as in Ciudad Salitre on the airport highway. Security won't be such an issue but prices are much higher. Nevertheless, you won't have any problem hailing a taxi at 6AM in the morning in the northern districts, because your hotel would be just around the corner from nightclub, or on the way to the airport. On the other hand, you can find low to medium priced hotels and hostels more expensive than La Candelaria's around downtown or near universities, especially in Chapinero Central.

Note than most hostels carry a strict no drugs due to the negative effects that these activities have on Colombians and their way of life. Cocaine use not only supports the violent conflict that has ravaged this country and this city, but also promotes the destruction of the Amazon Rainforest both through its production and subsequent eradication efforts. Child prostitution is also a current issue for many hostels and hotels who are fighting to prevent this from becoming a way of earning an income for young Colombians.

Stay safe
Bogotá is not at all as dangerous as it once was and as it may occasionally have been portrayed in certain movies. Its once high murder rate has dropped to an exceedingly low levels. Bombings and kidnappings are a thing of the past, and should not be a concern to visitors at all.

The principal safety concerns for travelers are pickpockets and the occasional taxi crime. Occasional pickpocketing is still present in the city. Mugging rates have gone down by tremendous levels, due to recent governments' new policies, but while they are not frequent they still occur occasionally. In the eventuality that they do happen (not very common) muggers are usually armed with knives or guns, and you should simply give them what they ask for without a fight—it's never anything worth risking your personal safety for. Most districts and neighborhoods that are frequented by travelers have no problems like this whatsoever. But there are certain areas in neighborhoods, that have a certain problem with pickpocketers and the occasional mugging, these include some areas of La Candelaria (after dark on weeknights—daytime walks and F-Sa nights are perfectly fine, no matter where you are), some very small parts of Santa Fé, and to a much lesser extent the more southern parts of Chapinero close to Avenida Caracas. Visitors need to be just a bit more careful in the South. Trust the locals if they tell you an area is unsafe or dangerous.

Taxi crime is a weird problem here (see "Million Dollar Ride" below). While longer-term visitors will find themselves lazily hailing cabs now and then, it is best to call cabs or order through an app, and not hail them off the street. Any cab dispatched will be safe, while hailed cabs are infrequently, (though once a while), a little bit unsafe. It may take a bit longer, but your safety is worth an extra wait. Hotels and nicer restaurants will always be happy to call one for you, and often offer to unprompted.

The Million Dollar Ride (Spanish: Paseo Millonario). Although this infamous event is mostly a thing of the past, separate incidents still occur. It occurs when you hail a taxi on the street, the taxi stops, you get in, then someone else gets in with you, and they take you for a ride until you have taken an important sum out of your bank accounts. This is usually accomplished with threats of violence.

ATM muggings. Pay attention when using cash machines that nobody follows you after you have withdrawn the money. It's a precaution foreign visitors aren't always used to taking, but it's not hard—look around as you step up to the machine to see if anyone's paying too much attention, then do the same afterwards. If someone is, abort and/or go into a store or eatery and stay put. Try to use ATMs that are inside (the supermarket Éxito always has them).

Stay healthy
Bogotá's tap water is safe to drink and of high quality. Beware of street foods that may cause an upset stomach. Bogotá has no tropical diseases like malaria because of its altitude.

Altitude sickness is, in fact, the largest health problem affecting foreigners—expect to be panting while going uphill or up stairs at first! Generally, a few days without hard physical activity or time spent in a mid-altitude city like Medellín or Fusagasugá (1½ hr) will do the trick. The nearest cities with a low altitude are Girardot (2½ hr) and Villavicencio (2½ hr). The travel time increases in the rush hour. To decrease the elevation, booking a last-minute flight for example to Cali or Medellin is also a possibility.

If you have heart disease or a respiratory condition, talk to your doctor. El Dorado Airport provides wheelchairs for travelers with special needs. Private hospitals offer excellent health care.

Doctor's offices with English speaking doctors:
 * First Aid International, Dr. Peter Jasinski (private), Cell/Whatsapp: +573163008340

Embassies

 * 🇦🇷 Argentina
 * 🇦🇺 Australia
 * 🇦🇹 Austria
 * 🇧🇪 Belgium
 * 🇧🇴 Bolivia
 * 🇧🇷 Brazil
 * 🇨🇦 Canada
 * 🇨🇱 Chile
 * 🇨🇳 China
 * 🇨🇺 Cuba
 * 🇪🇨 Ecuador
 * 🇫🇷 France
 * 🇩🇪 Germany
 * 🇯🇵 Japan
 * 🇮🇩 Indonesia
 * 🇮🇹 Italy
 * 🇲🇽 Mexico
 * 🇳🇱 Netherlands
 * 🇳🇿 New Zealand
 * 🇵🇦 Panama
 * 🇵🇾 Paraguay
 * 🇵🇪 Peru
 * 🇷🇴 Romania
 * 🇪🇸 Spain
 * 🇸🇪 Sweden
 * 🇸🇷 Suriname
 * 🇨🇭 Switzerland
 * 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
 * 🇺🇸 United States
 * 🇻🇪 Venezuela
 * 🇪🇸 Spain
 * 🇸🇪 Sweden
 * 🇸🇷 Suriname
 * 🇨🇭 Switzerland
 * 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
 * 🇺🇸 United States
 * 🇻🇪 Venezuela
 * 🇻🇪 Venezuela

News outlets
The most important media for Bogotá are:
 * El Tiempo is the country's largest daily with a heavy focus on the capital.
 * El Espectador has a liberal point of view and also a heavy focus on Bogotá.

For news and travel information on Bogotá in English:
 * Colombia Reports
 * The City Paper

Go next

 * Visit nearby towns like Chia (for Andrés Carne de Res restaurant), La Calera, Cajica, Tabio, Zipaquira and La Vega. You can find cheap and fast transportation to any of this destinations either from the Terminal de transportes or the Transmilenio North Portal. From most, you can return the same day. But it's a good idea to get out, Bogotá is a chaotic city surrounded by lots of relaxed and peaceful places.
 * Choachí is the best kept secret in town. This small village, 50 min by car east of Bogotá, is reached after climbing up and down a tall mountain, so tall you can see Monserrate at your feet. Local cooking, hot springs and a great Swiss restaurant await for you at your destination.
 * Parque Nacional Sumapaz to the south of Bogota to see the Paramo. It is closed due to improvements of guides and infrastructure. (August 2016)
 * Parque Nacional Chingaza to the east of the town Calera is a different place to see the Paramo. You'll need a 4x4 vehicle or go by a tour. Entrance fee is COP$13,500 for Colombians, COP$39,500 for foreigners and includes an obligatory guide. There are trails up to around 4 hours. Better to start early as you have to leave the parque at 3PM. Apart from the vegetation it's possible to see bears, deer and other animals.
 * Bogotá as a hub to visit other places in Colombia As the capital city is centrally located you can easily visit many distinct destinations as the Amazon Jungle (1½ hr by plane), Spanish colonial cities Cartagena or Popayán (1-hr flight), modern cities like Medellín located in an impressive Andean valley or Cali at the foothills of the Andes.
 * Bogotá as a hub to visit other places in Colombia As the capital city is centrally located you can easily visit many distinct destinations as the Amazon Jungle (1½ hr by plane), Spanish colonial cities Cartagena or Popayán (1-hr flight), modern cities like Medellín located in an impressive Andean valley or Cali at the foothills of the Andes.

To get to the airport from the city, you may use a taxi or a TransMilenio bus.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Bogotá


text:
Bogra

Bogra is a city in Rajshahi Division officially known as Bogura, one that had seen significant developments during President Zia's reign. The city is a good base for several day trips, including Paharpur and Mahastan, as well as a welcoming smaller city in which to wander and enjoy local food and shopping.

By road
It is approximately 4 hours from Dhaka. Comfortable luxury coaches offer tickets for approximately 1100 taka. You can go between 550 and 2100.

By helicopter
A privet aviation company named BCL Aviation Limited provides helicopter service for Dhaka-Bogura-Dhaka movement. One way fare is BDT 85,000. They also provides Dhaka-Bogura (up and down) scheduled service on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday, per person the rate is BDT 10,625. For details, visit the website the Company.

See

Shila Davir Ghat, Vasu Bihar, Mahi Saoar Grave and many other sites.

Buy
New market, 100 m north of Shatmatha, in front of Akboria is the place to find anything, really anything, from tailormade clothes to electric devices.

There is another market along with the railway, still on north of Shatmatta.

There is a decent market for electronic devices and copies known as Saptapadi Market, that is the building just northwest of shatmatha.

Eat
Akboria restaurant, 100 m north of Shatmatha. Good good, biryani and poretas, for a local price (~50 to 100BDT).

Shyamoli, just in front, is smaller but with the same good level of service.

Red chillies is 200 m south of Shatmatha, good food, higher grade restaurant (250-500 BDT per meal) as well as a guest house (1500BDT/night).

Fat Belly offers cheap Chinese/fusion meals in a comfortable environment off the street. Follow the sign up the alley and then left up the stairs. The owner will be keen to chat with any English-speakers.

Drink
Alcohol is available in a few locations in Bogura. The following hotels have bars: Naz Garden Hotel, Hotel Momo Inn, Parjatan Motel Bogura. Prices are higher than you might expect.

Sleep
Other good hotels are Red Chillies (downtown), Northway motel (still inside Bogra, but more in the southern part of the main road).Hotel Sies Ta(3*).

title: Bogra


text:
Highlands (Czech Republic)

The Highlands region (Czech: Kraj Vysočina, literally Highlands Region) is a region in the Czech Republic. It is a part of Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, an extensive and long range of hills and low mountains over 150 kilometres long, hence the name.

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 * Central Bohemia
 * East Bohemia
 * North Bohemia
 * South Bohemia
 * South Moravia

title: Highlands (Czech Republic)


text:
Bohemian Paradise

The Bohemian Paradise (Czech: Český ráj) is a protected landscape area in North Bohemia, Czech Republic. It provides many options for hiking and biking through the environment.

History
Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) earned its name in the 19th century due to its picturesque landscape in the foothills of the Giant Mountains, and its many castles and chateaus build in beautiful areas with sandstone rocks. In 1955 it was made the first Natural Protected Landscape Area in former Czechoslovakia. It has been very popular tourist destination since the beginning of 20th century.

In 2005, the original Protected Landscape Area of Bohemian Paradise was extended with the establishment of Bohemian Paradise Geopark, which now cover more than 700 km².

The European Geoparks Network was established as a voluntary organization in 2000; its main objective is multilateral cooperation in the protection of geological heritage, education, support of geotourism and strategies for sustainable development of the participating territories. European Geoparks Network members are also part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.

Bohemian Paradise Geopark is the very first territory of this kind in Czech Republic. A Geopark's task is to show the unique geological heritage and the relationship between nature and our existence. Geopark denotes the importance of geological processes on human society and informs us how to responsibly use natural resources. It popularizes geology and propagates the historical, cultural and environmental qualities of nature and landscape to public. Geoparks promote all resources of the region, including the genius loci of many picturesque sceneries, the beauty of unique locations, the wealth of cultural heritage, traditional crafts, regional agricultural products and interesting local cuisine. Bohemian Paradise Geopark was again approved by UNESCO and also declared the first Czech National Geopark in 2010.

Landscape
Bohemian Paradise is an area with a very interesting geological evolution. The geology has provided the foundation for the rich natural diversity of the region, for human settlement, agriculture, and commerce. There are only few places in the world where you can find such a wide variety of geological phenomena and where its diversity play such an important role in shaping the environment. All places are suitable for excursions for all who wish to enjoy the pleasures and excitements of geotourism and they are interesting and accessible even for people with minimal geological knowledge.

The distinctive sandstone formations of Bohemian Paradise were created as sea sediments of the Cretaceous Period. The landscape was later formed by volcanic activity, which also produced many of the precious stones for which the region is also famous. There is a long tradition in jewellery production, especially using famous Czech Garnets: cutting and setting precious stones, and engraving gemstones (glyptic).

Fauna
Apart from the main areas of PLA Bohemian Paradise, the Jizera and Kamenice rivers valleys belong the sites of European Natura 2000 network of highly protected areas. Most of the landscape is protected according to uniform principles to ensure the diversity of fauna, flora and habitat types that are most valuable, most endangered, rare or reduced in their presence to a particular region (endemic).

A small fish Vranka Obecná (Cottus gobio) with completely stunted gas bladder, moving among the rocks across the river bottom in typical “jumps” live at the bottom of the clean mountain streams and rivers. The Jizera River is inhabited by trout (Salmo trutta morpha fario) and rainbow trout, there are also rarely eel (Anguilla anguilla) and river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) present here. Rivers, streams, natural pools, and their surroundings are inhabited by the fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra), non-venomous grass snake (Natrix natrix), Toad (Bufo Bufo), and the birds such as Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Dipper (Cinclus cinclus), White Wagtail (Motacilla alba) and mammalian such as water shrew (Neomys fodiens), which all are bound to water habitats. The black stork (Ciconia nigra) has appeared in the Bítouchov area on the Rieger's Path. The meadows are inhabited with papillons, e.g. (Papilio machaon), and small lizards of Lacerta agilis, and Anguis fragilis specimen in sunny parts of the rocky hillsides, also the Balea perversa live here.

Forest vegetation on the slopes of the valleys are inhabited by black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), kinglet bird (Regulus ignicapillus), nuthatch (Sita europaea), warbler (Sylvia atricapilla), wren (Troglodytes troglodytes), Prunella modularis, and Phylloscopus sibilatrix. Merlin (Falco subbuteo), tawny owl (Strix aluco), wood pigeon (Columba palumbus), and spotted flycatcher (Muscicapa striata), live in the forests. Rocky areas serve as home for swift bird (Apus apus), redstart bird (Phoenicurus ochruros), sparrowhawk (Accipiter nissus), kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and great owl (Bubo bubo). Also raven (Corvus corax) can be spotted often.

Other common forest dwellers are mammals, such as squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris), shrew (Apodemus sylvaticus), hare (Lepus europaeus), fox (Vulpes vulpes), and roebuck (Capreolus capreolus), occasionally moufflon (Ovis musimon) and wild pig (Sus scrofa).

Flora
A substantial portion of the area is covered by forest vegetation represented mainly by pines with the minority of oak and beech, and less by other deciduous trees. Other parts include meadows and river valleys.

Forests are predominantly consisting of beech (Fagus sylvatica), maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) sycamore (Platanus hispanica), birch (Betula pendula), linden tree (Tilia platyphyllos), white fir (Abies alba), oak (Quercus robur), and hornbeam (Carpinus betulus).

Spruce monocultures (Picea abies) grow in minor areas, for example the immediate vicinity of Rieger's path. Many rocky areas of Bohemian Paradise are covered by pine forest (Pinus sylvestris).

Jizera river serves as a corridor to the descent of mountain and piedmont species to lower altitudes, while the thermophilic plants are spreading upriver. The area is a home to many flowers, for example ''Saxifraga decipiens, subsp. Steinmanii, Vincetoxicum hirundinaria, Campanula rotundifolia, Digitalis grandiflora, Silene vulgarit, Polypodium vulgare, and Asplenium virose'' are present at the rocky slopes of the Jizera river canyon.

Climate
Mildly temperate climate of Central Europe offers hot days (max. around +35 °C/95 °F) suitable for sun-bathing and watersports during summers and a lot of snow and good weather conditions for skiing during winters (max. around -20 °C/-4 °F).

Get in
The biggest towns of Bohemian Paradise are Turnov, Jičín, Nová Paka, Semily, and Železný Brod. They are connected with Prague, Liberec, Mladá Boleslav, and Hradec Králové by trains and buses, which run usually about every 2 hours.

The fastest travel by car is on the motorway R10 (E65) about 80 km in the north-east direction from Prague to Liberec through Mladá Boleslav and Turnov. Another road E442 (R35) leads across Bohemian Paradise from Hradec Králové through Jičín to Turnov and continues to Liberec.

Buses from Prague to Turnov, Železný Brod, Jičín, Nová Paka, and other places in Bohemian Paradise departs from the bus station Florenc (subway line B and C in the center of Prague) and from the station Prague Černý Most (subway end-station at line B). All towns in the Bohemian Paradise Geopark's territory are well accessible by regularly departing bus lines connecting them with Prague, Liberec, Hradec Králové and Pardubice.

A seasonal tourist buses provide the transport across the main sites in Geopark during the main summer season, which cover the main pedestrian and biking paths, and railway stations. Tourist bus timetables are available at tourist information centers, at bus stops, and on websites www.cesky-raj.info  and  www.bohemian-paradise.info.

Bohemian Paradise can be accessed by train along the route No. 231 from Prague to Nymburk and the route No. 61, which continues to Jičín. Another main railway No. 41 leads to Geopark from Hradec Králové through Jičín to Turnov. Another mail railway with several tunnels through the foothills of the Giant Mountains line the route No. 30 from Pardubice to Liberec through the towns of Stará Paka, Železný Brod and Turnov, which is the main rail hub in the Bohemian Paradise.

It takes about 2 hours by bus or 2½ hours by train from Prague through Mladá Boleslav to Turnov and it costs about 130-150 Kč.

For the timetable check the online Czech bus/train timetable.

Fees and permits
Traveling across the Geopark area is free. Some of the castles and chateaus require small entrance fees, when you want visit their interiors and see their exhibitions.

Bozkov Dolomite Caves can be accessed only with a small entrance fee and a guide available there during opening hours.

Municipal museums and art galleries in the area of Geopark charge separate admission fees.

Get around
Bohemian Paradise area is covered with a dense network of marked bike trails that pass through the most interesting places of Geopark. Many of the trails can be traveled on skis during winter.

Some of Geopark's trails are not suitable for anything except walking. There are numerous different colour-coded tourist marked trails which provide hikes as short as one hour or as long as an entire day. Some sections of the trails across rocky areas may include steep stairs, but most of them are safe even for families with small children.

Jizera River has good conditions for canoeing. Also rivers Kamenice and Oleška are navigable in the spring.

Volcanites in Bohemian Paradise
Hvězda

The abandoned quarry Hvězda with the length of its wall about 170 m and a height of up to 25 m, located on Mt. Staropacká about 2 km from the town Stará Paka, is known as deposit of many precious stones. The deposits of pyroclastic rocks of phreatomagmatic eruption of maar volcano are exposed in this place. Massive amygdaloidal andesitoids and several types of irregular red-brown lenticular positions of tuffites and its agglomerates are present there. Almonds are somewhere plentiful, rare elsewhere, their size range from the cavities with millimeter dimensions to 15 cm in diameter. Moss chalcedony, agate, geodes, and calcite are to be found there usually.

Kozákov

The highest peak of Bohemian Paradise is a part of Ještěd-Kozákov ridge. It was created by uplifting along the Lusatian Fault 5 million years ago and it consists of Paleozoic phyllites, rocks of Carboniferous and Permian Ages, Cretaceous sandstones, and Tertiary basalt. A body of amygdaloidal melaphyres in the Votrubec's quarry gives the evidence of volcanic activity in the Late Paleozoic Era. Various types of quartz, agate, jasper, chalcedony, zeolites, and more crystallized in the cavities of the melaphyre. Stones from Kozákov were used already by prehistoric hunters. A tourist lodge with restaurant is on the top of the hill, with a new 40 m high publicly available lookout tower offering wonderful view of the Bohemian paradise landscape.

Magmatic gushes at the northern slope of Kozákov hill

The youngest volcanic activity took place here in the Tertiary period. Basaltic rocks cover the northern slope of the hill. Tephres, which appear at the beginning and in the middle of the volcanic activity, represent only about 5% of the mass-produced. Columnar structure is a typical characteristic of igneous rocks that cooled near the surface. The columns of basaltic rocks lined up like organ pipes or presented in fan-like shapes are located on the northern slope. Volcanic bombs can be found on the top of Kozákov as well as in the former volcano crater at Prackov. Green olivine stones are mostly present in the basaltic rocks.

Mužský (463 m)

Basalt hill, of similar origin as Trosky, stands in the middle of a sandstone plateau lying in the southwestern part of the Bohemian Paradise about 2.5 km northeast from the town of Mnichovo Hradiště. The highest peak of Příhrazy platform is the basaltic remnant of the magma-supplying vein of former volcano. Gravitational collapse, supported by historical mining was the cause of a small cave in basalt. The plateau is divided by canyons into five parts called Hrada, Mužský, Příhrazské rocks, cliffs and rocks at the Drhleny, and rocks near castle Valečov. The area was inhabited already in the Neolithic Age. A beautiful view of the landscape around is available from the bare top of Mužský hill. A memorial of the fallen soldiers was built here in 1866. The Village of Mužský below the hill has been designated as a historical reserve due to its original character.

Strážník

Hill Strážník is quite famous and perhaps the only site in Europe, where the Star Quartz can be found. The origin of local unique radial star-shaped quartz is linked to the hydrothermal vein pervading through the melaphyre in the southeastern part of the top platform, called "Boroví". Weathering processes such as erosion, frost and slope sliding in the past caused the distribution of star quartz down the slopes. The maximum reported diameter of radial aggregates was 10 cm. Nowadays, the site where the star quartz was found was covered with soil - to prevent further collecting - it was declared natural preserve in 1963.

Zebín

Hill Zebín is one of the landmarks near the town of Jičín. A marshy landscape with shallow lakes was here about 17 million years ago. Then a hot magma penetrated into it, which was fractured into small fragments due to the reaction caused by its contact with water. However, the strength of the eruption has not increased much. That's how the tuff cone was created, which was later filled with magma through the dike vein and a lake of lava formed in it. Abandoned quarry lying on the hillside reveals the structure of a scoria cone volcano remnants. A Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene was built in 17th century on the top of the hill.

Zlámaniny near Nová Paka

Sedimentary rocks of Kumburk formation – Štikov arcoses 300 million years old are shown on the wall of the abandoned quarry. Arcoses are distinctly horizontal and cross-bedded with fluvial channels. There are three silicified wood of Dadoxylon type embedded in various directions and levels inside north wall of the quarry. The biggest of them is about 75 cm thick in diameter. Small basalt bed of breccia structure with typical hexagonal seclusiveness occurs near the bottom of the quarry, it is probably the remnant of volcanic dike channel.

Castles, chateaus and castle ruins
Bohemian Paradise Geopark encompasses many castles and chateaus, often build in attractive locations on sandstone rocks. Some of the castles and palaces are in excellent conditions and they are offering an exhibitions of their historical interieurs with original furnishings and equipment, other are left as romantic ruins in the wild nature, suitable for a family trip.

Frýdštejn castle ruin Well-preserved ruins of the castle rises above the valley of the Jizera River, dominated by the castle's highest tower which is its best conserved part. It is 15 m high with a diameter of 9 m and its walls are 2 m thick. Frýdštejn was built during the 14th century. A number of small rooms, including a chapel, was carved directly into the rock. The owners of the castle superseded several times. The castle has lost its function after the sale in 1556, and it has been uninhabited since the late 16th century. Today the castle is owned by the municipality of Frýdštejn. Open: May to October 10:00 to 17:00 Hrubá Skála Chateau

Chateau Hrubá Skála was built on a sandstone rock on the site of a former medieval castle rock, which was established by Hynek of Wallenstein. The castle was first mentioned as the property of Wallenstein dynasty in the charter of 1353. It was rebuilt into a Renaissance chateau in the mid-16th century and later rebuilt in Neo-gothic style during the Romantism period. The chateau serves as hotel and offers a variety of restaurants and other representative rooms of the castle.

Hrubý Rohozec Chateau

Today's Chateau Hrubý Rohozec was founded as a gothic castle around 1280. Later it was architecturally modified in the Renaissance, Baroque, and Empire style, which is now the most noticeable. Two libraries, dining room and green salon have been preserved with the original equipment to present date. The chateau exposition is arranged in cooperation with the Prague Museum of Decorative Arts. The castle is surrounded by park with a collection of stone masonry of the Romantic period. Open: October and April: weekends and holidays 09:00 to 16:00 May - September: Tu-Su 09:00-17:00

Humprecht Chateau

Humprecht, designed by Carlo Lurago, was built as a small hunting lodge by Humprecht Černín John the Earl of Chudenice in the years 1667–1672. A banquet hall, library and black kitchen can be visited in basement, the women's and men's rooms with original furnishings and ladies' dressing rooms with a small picture gallery are in upper floor. Open: April and October, weekends, holidays: Tu-Su 09:00-15:30; May: Tu-Su 09:00-16:30PM; June–August: Tu-Su 09:00-17:00; Sep: Tu-Su 09:00-16:00

Kost castle

Castle stands on a sandstone rock in the intersection of three valleys - Plakánek, Prokop's, and Černý Pond. It was founded with its characteristic massive so-called White Tower in the late 14th century. Massive reconstruction of the castle has been done in the mid-20th century. The castle belongs to the Kinsky family property. Open: April: W-Su 09:00-16:00; May June: Tu-Su 09:00-17:00; July August: daily 09:00-18:00; September: Tu-Su 09:00-17:00; October: W-Su 09:00-16:00

Kozlov (Chlum) castle ruin

Rock castle Kozlov was built on several sandstone blocks at Chlum hill (358 m above sea level) above village Podháj. Only few remnants of the castle survived until present: small rooms carved into the rock, defensive moats and castle well. Mortises for the wooden parts of the castle are well visible in the rocks. The castle used particular natural rock formations as defense walls, which were extended by wooden fortifications. There are many interesting rocky outcrops around the castle area. The lookout of Karel Vaclav Rais is near the castle. Kumburk castle ruin

Kumburk castle was founded around 1300. The phase of the castle flourish immediately preceded the Hussite riots in 15th century. Castle's outer fortifications were demolished in the 17th century, the castle itself was deserted and dilapidated. Kumburk stands on the former lava lake, which emerged when lava filled the crater created by an explosion caused by contact of hot magma with water-saturated sediments about 17 million years ago. Basaltic columns, which are arranged in the shape of an inverted fan below the castle remind us of that volcanic event.

Mnichovo Hradiště Chateau

Chateau is a magnificent example of Baroque residence. It was designed by the architect Canevalle who began the reconstruction of the former Renaissance chateau in 1696. The castle art gallery, Golden Cabinet, and the chapel with rich decorations were built after 1730. The castle rooms shows excellent examples of Baroque interior design. Opening hours: April, October: Sa Su and holidays 08:45 to 15:00; May June September: Tu-Su 08:45 to 16:00, July August: Tu-Su 08:45 to 17:00.

Rotštejn castle ruin

The remains of a gothic castle lies in the Nature reserve Klokočské rock, which was established in 1985 on an area of 228.13 hectares. The sandstones form about 2 km long rock wall with several standalone rock pinnacles above village Klokočí. Rotštejn was founded by Markvarts family in 14th century, and it was abandoned in the early 16th century. Open: from Easter to the end of May: Sa 10:30-17:00, Su 10:30-16:00, June–August: M-F 10:00–16:30, Sa 10:00–17:00, Su 10–16:00; Sep-Oct: Sa 10:00–17:00, Su 10:00–16:00

Sychrov Chateau

The Neo-Gothic chateau served as residence of the Rohan family of French origin. The palace rooms are equipped with original furniture, paintings and other accessories, most of the rooms also have splendid carvings. The chateau interiors are open to the public, including its large park. Open: January–March: 10:00–14:00, April: 09:00-15:30, May–August: 09:00–16:30, September–October: 09:00–15:30, November–December: 10:00–14:00

Trosky castle ruin

The hill Trosky (488 m above sea) represents the remnants of volcanic scoria cone. The original volcano, which broke with the explosion through sandstone about 17.5 million years ago, was worn down by erosion over time. Only two highly resistant basaltic towers remained exposed, which are the remnants of conduit that once filled the vents inside the scoria and ash cones. The thicker one is called Baba and thinner is called Panna. The famous ruins are the remains of castle built here in 14th century. Opening hours: April and October: Sa Su and holidays 08:30 to 16:00, May–August: Tu-Su 08:30 to 17:30, September: Tu-Su 08:30 to 16:00.

Valdštejn castle

The oldest castle in the Bohemian Paradise was built around the 1260. Its residential function ended in late 15th century and the castle was abandoned. Ruined castle raised to a new glory with the efforts of Wallenstein family, who rebuilt it into a remarkable pilgrimage site with a unique genius loci in the 18th century. The new owners of Lex of Aehrenthal  made castle available to the public and they finished the romantic adaptations of old residence into famous landmark in the 19th century. Open: daily, April and October: Sa Su and holidays: 09:00 to 17:30, May–September: 09:00 to 17:30

Valečov castle ruin

A wooden castle was built on the rocks by family of Valečov after 1300. It was burned down by Henry Wartenberg after Hussite wars in 1439. A stone palace was built in the first half of the 15th century, another floor was added in next century. The castle later served as administrative center and the nobility did not live here anymore, it was noticed as abandoned in 1652. Since 1994 the castle is owned by the municipality Bosen. Open: November–February: Sa Su 10:00–17:00, March April: Sa Su and holidays 10:00–17:00; May September: daily 09:00–17:00, July, August: daily 09:00–17:00 Vranov - Pantheon castle

Rock castle Vranov also known as Pantheon with its length of almost 400 m is considered the most complicated rock castle in Bohemia. The form of the castle was determined by the sandstone cliffs, in which it was built before 1425. It was abandoned during the 16th century. Later modifications transformed the ruins of the castle into a romantic monument available to public called the Pantheon. Reconstruction was completed in summer 1826, when a chapel was built high above the Jizera valley. Open: April May September October: Sa Su 09:00-18:00, June–August: daily 09:00 to 18:00.

Zbiroh castle ruin

Zbiroh castle was founded in the early 14th century high above the village Rakousy, where the Jizera river creates a great meander. Zbiroh is noticed in the written documents of king Wenceslas IV., when it belonged to a prominent bohemian magnate Markvart of Wartenberg. During the long years of anarchy and chaos in the country after the Hussite wars, the castle Zbiroh along with other castles in this area become the outpost for robbers and bandit troops, therefore the army demolished it in 1442 and about 1458 is mentioned already as abandoned. Only remnants of walls and vaults carved into the rock remains us of the former castle today.

Do
Sandstone rock formations

Twenty minutes of hiking along almost any of the marked trails from the bus or railway stop will bring you to the stunning sandstone formations of Bohemian Paradise. These can be admired from the bottom of the valleys or from numerous lookouts along the trails atop the rock formations.

Leisure activities
Walking along the Geopark trails

The area of Bohemian Paradise Geopark is covered by colour-coded marked trails for tourists, which guide across the main interesting parts and which also connect the places with nearest bus and railway stations, and parking places in towns and villages of Geopark. New educative trails for geotourists are installed with geotags at the main sites, which can provide you with additional multimedia information available to your mobile devices with internet connection about interesting geological, archaeological, and other various interesting phenomena of the Bohemian Paradise landscape.

Biking and inline skating

Bohemian Paradise area is covered with a dense network of bike trails that pass through the most interesting places of Geopark. A new network of trails for biking and in-line skating through nature called Greenway Jizera was built along the Jizera river in the picturesque valleys and meanders leading from Semily through Železný Brod, Malá Skála  and Rakousy as far as to Dolánky valley below the chateau Hrubý Rohozec in Turnov.

Water sports

Jizera River has good conditions for canoeing. Also rivers Kamenice and Oleška are navigable in the spring. Upper parts of Jizera are suitable for experienced paddlers, while the Jizera near Turnov is quieter and easier for anyone. Many natural lakes and rivers in the area of Geopark offer refreshment during hot summer days. Some of towns in Geopark have municipal public swimming pools or aqua-centers. The quarry at Nová Rumchalpa is the base place for divers.

Skiing

Many sites can be visited on skis during winter. When snow conditions are good, there are beautiful trails through Želejovské valley, Žehrovka valley, along the Golden path of Bohemian Paradise or on the ridge trail from Kozákov to Hamštejn. Downhill skiing is possible in these locations: Frydstejn: 1 lift, 600 m slope. Koberovy, TJ Koberovy: 1 lift, 350 m slope. Kozákov, TJ Chuchelna: 1 lift, 500 m slope. Líšný, TJ Líšný: 1 elevator. Lomnice n. P., V Popelkách: 1 lift, 300 m slope. Tabor: 1 lift, 450 m slope. Semily ski resort Nad Nádražím: 1 lift, 350 m slope. Turnov: ski resort Struhy: 1 lift, 300 m slope with lights.

Rock climbing

Bohemian Paradise offers many excellent opportunities for rock climbers. Sandstone rocks are protected, and therefore all the rules must be respected! Detailed information is available at information centers, on Internet etc., conditions may vary for different rock areas.

Paragliding and kiting

Kozákov hill has become very popular place for fans of paraglide-flying and kiting. There are three starting points (west, south and north) on its top. Landing place at an altitude of 484 m is marked by windsocks. Pilot courses and tandem flights are held here, in which the control is left to an experienced glider pilot, allowing you a wonderful view of the Trosky castle and surrounding landscape, with no sign of engine noise, just a beautiful feeling of flight.

Buy
Restaurants, pubs, supermarkets and shops are available in main towns Turnov, Jičín, Semily, Nová Paka, and Železný Brod and also in many smaller villages along the main tourist paths. Most of the castles and chateau sites offer refreshment and souvenir shops, the biggest Chateau Sychrov and Chateau Hrubá Skála have their own restaurants.

Sleep
Accommodation is available in many hotels in towns Turnov, Jičín, Semily, and Železný Brod and  in many villages in Geopark.

List of accommodation in Bohemian Paradise:

Turnov:
 * Hotel Karel IV
 * Hotel Paradis
 * Hotel Korunní Princ
 * Pension Svatý Jan

Jičín:
 * Hotel U Krále

Nová Paka:
 * Hotel Štikov

Many private pensions offer accommodation in the area. Český ráj is also near enough to Prague that it can be done as a day trip.

Camping
Wild camping is not allowed in the protected areas of Geopark and in its sandstone caves. However, there are many public camping places available in the area of Bohemian Paradise, a pretty complete listing can be found on webpages: www.czech-camping.com, www.czech-camping.com or www.ceskyraj.info.

Stay safe
There is even a popular Czech folk song about not climbing the rock formations, as they are dangerous - and they truly are, reports of people falling of the steep rocks are common. There are usually railings which prevent people from going near the edge, so it is a wise idea not to step behind these railing. If there are no railings, just use your common sense and do not venture too far to do your selfie. In winter or during rain this is even more important, as the rocks might get icy and slippery.

Go next

 * Kokořínsko - another Landscape Protected Area, also featuring rock formations and a large castle as a bonus. 70 km
 * Giant Mountains National Park - a large national park featuring Czech tallest mountain and mountain plateaus resembling Scandinavia. 55 km
 * Liberec - a city with approximately 100,000 inhabitants, famous for the mountain Ještěd rising above it. 35 km

title: Bohemian Paradise