Bogota Tour: Discover the history of La Candelaria on Scooter

Discover Bogotá’s Historic Charm on a Scooter Tour

Imagine cruising along cobblestone streets and passing ancient monuments all while feeling the breeze in your hair. For just $24 per person, this 2-hour 15-minute scooter tour takes you through the heart of La Candelaria, Bogotá’s colorful colonial neighborhood. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit iconic sites like Plaza de Bolívar, the Monumento a Santander, and even a local coffee house, all with the freedom of your own scooter.

Two things we love about this experience are how it combines active exploration with cultural insight, making it a dynamic way to understand the city. Plus, the small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures personal attention and a more intimate experience. That said, if hills are a concern, be prepared for some physical exertion—this isn’t a flat city everywhere.

This tour is perfect for those who want to see multiple highlights in a short time, enjoy a fun ride, and get a local perspective. It suits adventurous travelers, first-timers eager to cover ground quickly, and anyone who enjoys a bit of personalized storytelling while discovering new places.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-paced: At $24, it delivers great value for covering Bogotá’s key sights in just over two hours.
• Expert guides: Guides like Miguel and Alejandro are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Diverse stops: From historic plazas and parks to a famous coffee shop, each stop offers a blend of culture, history, and local life.
• Flexible experience: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with group discounts and mobile tickets making planning easier.
• Authentic insight: Visitors often mention how guides share valuable information that enhances understanding beyond just sightseeing.
• Active but manageable: Expect some hills and urban traffic, so be prepared for a light workout and attentive riding.

A Deep Dive Into the Bogotá Scooter Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at Cl. 12b #285 in Bogotá, a convenient spot near public transportation, making it easy to access. From the moment you meet your guide, the focus is on enjoying the ride and learning about Bogotá’s history and culture. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the group remains small enough for personalized attention, which many reviews highlight as a big plus.

The duration of about two hours and fifteen minutes is just right — enough time to see several must-visit locations without feeling rushed, and to get a good feel for the city’s atmosphere. The mobile tickets add convenience, and the group discounts make it easier for friends or family to join.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually See

Stop 1: Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo
This lively square is considered the birthplace of Bogotá. It’s a hub of local art, music, and gastronomy. Expect to find charming cafes, street performers, and murals that evoke the city’s colonial past. One reviewer describes it as a magical, cultural place full of legends. It’s a perfect introduction to Bogotá’s vibrant spirit.

Stop 2: Plaza de Bolívar
At the city’s political core, this grand square is dotted with monuments and statues honoring Colombia’s independence heroes. It’s a place pulsing with history, where you can imagine the city’s political life unfolding centuries ago.

Stop 3: Monumento a Santander
A lush green park that feels like an urban oasis. Surrounded by majestic trees and colorful flowers, it’s a peaceful spot that offers a break from the city hustle. Some reviews mention it as a magical experience and a highlight for nature lovers.

Stop 4: Bogota Planetarium and Plaza de Toro
Next, you’ll pass by the Bogota Planetarium, a favorite for those interested in science and space. Nearby is the Plaza de Toro, an iconic square. A quick pass by the towering Colpatria Tower offers a glimpse of Bogotá’s skyline — the tallest building until the Bacatá Tower was constructed.

Stop 5: Parque de los Periodistas Gabriel García Márquez
A charming park that’s both a cultural hub and a memorial to the city’s journalists. It’s an essential stop to understand Bogotá’s vibrant story-telling tradition.

Stop 6: Palacio de la Esmeralda
Here, you get an authentic look into Bogotá’s emerald industry, which has been a vital part of its economy for centuries. It’s a surprisingly personal experience, seeing how the industry operates both formally and informally.

What to Expect and What Travelers Say

Many review comments highlight the knowledgeability of guides like Miguel and Alejandro, who are praised for their storytelling and friendliness. A visitor notes, “Miguel was incredibly knowledgeable, hospitable, and caring,” making the experience both fun and educational. Another mentions, “He made himself available to assist with pictures,” which adds to the overall positive vibe.

Some travelers point out the hills and traffic, which can make the ride a bit challenging. One review states, “There are hills so be ready for some exercise,” but many agree it’s part of the city’s character. Guides often take bike paths and less busy streets to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

The Scooters: Pros and Cons

The scooters used are praised for their decent performance, and many reviews remark they’re fun to ride. However, a few mention that the scooters are not perfect, noting they are “decent” but not top-of-the-line. Expect some bumps and hills, and be ready for urban traffic, which adds an element of adventure — and a bit of caution.

Pricing and Value

At $24, this tour offers exceptional value. You’re paying for a well-structured route, guided commentary, and the opportunity to see multiple key sites in a short period. Compared to the cost of individual admissions or private taxis, this is a cost-effective way to get a broad overview of Bogotá.

Who Should Join?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Bogotá who want to maximize their time and see diverse sights without exhausting themselves. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy light physical activity and prefer a more dynamic experience. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, the group discounts make it even more appealing.

The Sum Up

This scooter tour in Bogotá offers a lively, affordable way to explore the city’s historic heart and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine active sightseeing with local insights and authentic sites, all within a short timeframe. The knowledgeable guides, like Miguel and Alejandro, add a layer of storytelling that makes each stop come alive, far beyond what you’d get from a traditional bus tour.

While the hills and traffic may give some pause, most travelers find these elements part of the adventure — and worth it for the stunning views and informative stops. The small group size ensures a personal experience, making it especially suited for those who prefer a more intimate journey.

At only $24, the tour provides excellent value for a memorable day in Bogotá. Whether you’re a culture lover, history enthusiast, or simply want a fun way to see the city, this scooter adventure is likely to leave you with lasting impressions and a new appreciation for Bogotá’s vibrant character.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves riding scooters and some hills, it’s better suited for those comfortable on a scooter and with a reasonable level of mobility.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, giving ample time to see multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Do I need to know how to ride a scooter?
It’s recommended to be comfortable riding scooters, as this is the main mode of transportation. Guides assist and ensure safety, but basic riding skills are expected.

Are the scooters electric?
While not explicitly stated, the experience provider is called Jaguar Coffee – Tours & Travel Agency, which may suggest eco-friendly options; however, confirm with the provider if this is important for your planning.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for riding and consider bringing a small backpack with water, sunglasses, and sunscreen — especially if the weather is sunny.

This Bogotá scooter tour balances fun, culture, and history in a way that few other experiences can match. If you’re looking for a lively, engaging way to see the city’s highlights while enjoying the outdoors and local stories, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.