Private Guided Walking Tour and Coffee Workshop in Bogota

Imagine wandering through Bogotá’s vibrant neighborhoods, stopping at carefully selected coffee spots, all while learning about the fascinating journey of a coffee bean from plant to cup. For $60 per person, this private guided walking tour combined with a coffee workshop offers a perfect blend of education and authentic tasting experiences. Lasting about three hours, it’s an engaging way to deepen your appreciation for Colombia’s most famous export.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guidance that combines storytelling with hands-on tasting techniques, and second, the chance to evaluate coffee like a true connoisseur, using professional cupping sheets. These elements turn a simple coffee break into an enriching cultural journey.

One small consideration: as the tour involves walking between three locations and some outdoor elements, dressing warmly and bringing an umbrella is advisable, especially if rain is in the forecast.

This tour is well-suited for travelers curious about coffee, whether they’re casual drinkers or budding baristas, and those eager to experience Bogotá beyond its famed sights. It’s also perfect for anyone who loves learning through tasting and wants to go home with a new appreciation for what makes a great cup of coffee.

Key Points

• Immersive learning about specialty coffee, from plant to cup
• Hands-on tasting with professional guidance at three distinct stops
• Impartial evaluations of local coffee shops’ quality and service
• Multilingual experience available in Spanish, English, Portuguese, or French
• Includes practical tools like cupping sheets and a pen for notes
• Walking between locations totals roughly 2 to 3 kilometers, perfect for active explorers

A Deep Dive into Bogotá’s Coffee Tour

What You’ll Experience and Why It Matters

This tour offers a rare chance to see Bogotá’s coffee culture from multiple perspectives—historical, artisanal, and practical. It’s designed not just for those who love coffee but for anyone interested in understanding what makes Colombian coffee so renowned worldwide. The experience is structured into three stops, each adding a new layer to your knowledge.

Stop 1: La Parla Workcafé

Your journey begins outside La Parla Workcafé, where you and your small group gather and get ready to savor some of the city’s finest specialty coffee. Inside, your guide (potentially a passionate expert or barista) will explain the variables that influence coffee flavor, such as roast level, brewing methods, and serving vessels. You’ll sample different cups, assessing them with a cupping sheet, which helps you develop a more refined palate.

We loved the way this first stop balances education and tasting—setting the foundation for what’s to come. The cozy environment and friendly staff make it approachable, even for those new to coffee tasting. Remember to arrive early, dress warmly, and bring an umbrella since Bogotá’s weather can be unpredictable.

Stop 2: Café 18 Rosales

Next, you’ll walk to Café 18 Rosales, where the focus shifts to the production process. Here, you’ll see baby coffee plants, learning how coffee is cultivated and harvested. The baristas and staff will explain the intricate steps involved, from picking to processing, giving you a clear picture of what makes Colombian coffee unique.

Following this, you’ll enjoy different brewing styles of the same specialty coffee, evaluating each with the descriptors learned earlier. This side-by-side tasting shows how brewing methods can highlight different flavor notes and textures.

Stop 3: Libertario Coffee Roasters

Your final stop is a true highlight—Libertario Coffee Roasters—where the focus is on coffee roasting and history. Here, you’ll learn about Colombia’s role in the global coffee scene and the craft behind roasting beans to develop specific flavors.

The guide will guide you through tasting more cups prepared differently, using the skills acquired at previous stops. This hands-on evaluation helps you recognize quality beans and appreciate the craftsmanship involved. The experience closes with a discussion about selecting beans and understanding labels, so you leave with practical skills for buying coffee in Colombia or at home.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides essentials like bottled water, a pen, a cupping sheet, and the coffee served at each stop. You’ll also enjoy some salty snacks to keep you energized. The walk covers 2-3 kilometers, making it manageable even for casual walkers.

Not included are additional snacks, tips, or any coffee beans you might wish to purchase afterward. However, the focus remains on the experience itself—educational, authentic, and enjoyable.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early to settle in comfortably
• Dress in layers; Bogotá can be cool or rainy
• Bring a small umbrella and perfume-free to respect the tasting environment
• Allocate roughly three hours for a relaxed experience

Authentic Perspectives from Past Participants

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the coffee. One reviewer called it “a Bogota must-do,” emphasizing the history and tasting skills they gained. Others appreciated the impartial evaluation of local shops, noting how the guide’s expertise ensured a fair assessment.

Multiple reviewers mentioned the passion of the guides, like Reese or Luis, which enhances the experience far beyond just drinking coffee. They appreciated learning about the craftsmanship, history, and sensory aspects—transforming a simple tasting into a true appreciation of coffee.

What Travelers Appreciate Most

• The hands-on approach that teaches you how to evaluate coffee
• The opportunity to explore local coffee shops without preconceptions
• Learning about Colombia’s coffee heritage in an engaging way
• The friendly, personalized guidance that makes the experience memorable

Practical Considerations and Final Thoughts

For $60, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and the educational content. You’re not just tasting coffee—you’re gaining skills to continue exploring on your own and supporting local coffee producers. The inclusion of tools like cupping sheets helps you remember and use what you’ve learned.

While it’s primarily a walking tour, the pace is leisurely enough for most travelers. The fact that it’s private means the experience can adapt slightly to your interests or questions, making it a flexible, tailored outing.

If you’re a coffee enthusiast, curious traveler, or someone who simply wants to see Bogotá through the lens of its most beloved beverage, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy tasting and learning in a small-group setting, with the added bonus of gaining practical skills.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy walking and tasting coffee. Children or those with mobility issues should consider the walking distance and pace.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, including visits to three different coffee spots and walking between them.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is popular and typically booked about 9 days ahead. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and time.

What should I bring?
Arrive early dressed warmly, bring an umbrella, and a sense of curiosity. The tour provides water, a pen, and cupping sheets.

Can I choose the language?
Yes, the tour can be conducted in Spanish, English, Portuguese, or French, depending on the group’s preference. You’ll select the language the day before.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the price, and while not obligatory, they are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

This Bogotá coffee tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the city’s coffee scene. Whether you’re looking to deepen your palate, understand the craft, or simply enjoy a relaxed walk with tasty rewards, it’s a venture worth considering.