Bogotá: La Candelaria Graffiti & Urban Art Shared Tour

If you’re curious about Bogotá’s creative pulse, this La Candelaria Graffiti & Urban Art Tour offers an eye-opening look at the city’s colorful street murals. For just $15 per person and lasting about 2.5 hours, this guided walk takes you through the heart of the historic district, where art, politics, and indigenous identity collide on the walls. Led by knowledgeable guides—sometimes bilingual—you’ll see murals by local artists like 3 Manos, Ledania, Bastardilla, Vera, and others, revealing stories that often go beyond the surface.

What we love about this tour is not just the stunning visual impact of Bogotá’s murals but also the insight into the socio-political context that fuels this vibrant urban art scene. It’s a chance to understand how artists express indigenous roots, current issues, and gender roles—like the work of women artists such as Bastardilla and Ledania. The tour’s inclusion of a local coca leaf tea at Café Herencia offers an authentic taste of local tradition while supporting the community’s artists.

One consideration: at just 2.5 hours, the tour offers a packed experience, but it’s mainly focused on walking around La Candelaria’s streets. If you’re looking for something with transportation included or more extensive museum visits, this might feel a little lightweight. However, for those interested in a deep, local perspective on Bogotá’s street art, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy art, culture, and street-level storytelling. It’s ideal for folks who want an authentic view of Bogotá beyond the usual sights, especially if you appreciate a guide who shares thoughtful insights. Perfect for first-timers or seasoned travelers eager for a creative, socially aware journey through Colombia’s capital.

Key Points

• Affordable and Insightful: At $15, you get a meaningful glimpse into Bogotá’s urban art scene with a knowledgeable guide.
• Authentic Local Experience: The tour goes beyond murals, exploring the socio-political stories behind the art.
• Cultural Highlights: Pass by La Concordia Market and Journalists Park—hotspots of Bogotá’s local life.
• Support Local Artists: Visiting Café Herencia and viewing murals by women artists like Bastardilla and Ledania connects you directly with artists’ stories.
• Small Group Dynamics: Limited to 10 people, ensuring a personalized, friendly atmosphere.
• Flexible and Convenient: Meets at Chorro de Quevedo Square, with options for Spanish and English tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Bogotá Graffiti & Urban Art Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at El Gato Gris, a cozy hub that sets the tone for a relaxed, engaging experience. The guide, often Juana or Christian, greets you with warmth, ready to share the stories behind Bogotá’s colorful walls. From this starting point, you head into La Candelaria, the historic district filled with colonial architecture and lively street art.

Walking through La Candelaria

As we stroll through the streets, we’re struck by the vivid murals that adorn nearly every corner. Our guide explains that Bogotá has gained international recognition for its spray paint art—more than just decoration, these murals are a visual language telling stories of indigenous heritage, social struggles, and political activism. We loved the way the guide connected the murals to Colombia’s broader cultural context, making each piece more meaningful.

You’ll see works by artists like Carlos Trilleras, Wosnan, Ocio 4, and 3 Manos, who craft murals that often feature indigenous themes or social commentary. The murals don’t just beautify—they challenge viewers to think about Colombia’s current issues and history. One review highlights how a guide like Luis “explained the importance of the graffiti and urban art,” making the experience educational as well as visual.

La Concordia Market and Journalists Park

Passing by La Concordia Market, the tour reveals Bogotá’s lively street life. These bustling spots are more than tourist stops—they’re local gathering points, full of color, noise, and fresh produce. The guide points out how these areas have influenced the art scene, acting as melting pots of ideas.

At Journalists Park, the focus shifts to murals that reflect Colombia’s political climate and the role of free press. This area has historically served as a hub for social movements, which is reflected in the murals depicting themes of resistance and voice.

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Women Artists and Their Murals

A special highlight is the murals created by women artists, like Bastardilla, Vera, and Ledania. Their work often challenges gender norms and celebrates indigenous identities. One reviewer mentions how “the tour shows graffiti authored by women and discusses their role in propagating this art,” giving a more nuanced view of Bogotá’s street culture.

Tasting Coca Leaf Tea and Supporting Local Artisans

The tour culminates at Café Herencia, a cozy spot that supports local artists. Here, you get to try coca leaf tea, a Colombian tradition with roots in indigenous culture. This isn’t just a refreshment—it’s a small but meaningful way to connect with local traditions and the art community. Several reviews mention this as a memorable part of the experience, appreciating the flavor and the cultural significance.

Final Stop and Reflection

After visiting murals and markets, the tour wraps up back at El Gato Gris, where you can reflect on what you’ve seen and captured on your camera. The guide is always available for questions, ensuring you leave with a better understanding of Bogotá’s street art and its social roots.

Practical Details

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Price: $15 per person (a very reasonable rate for what you get)
• Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, giving a personal touch
• Meeting Point: Next to the fountain by the yellow umbrella at Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo
• Languages: Tours offered in Spanish and English, sometimes simultaneously
• Inclusions: Guide, socio-political insights, murals, Colombian tea tasting, insurance, rain umbrella
• Exclusions: Transportation (you’ll need to walk, but the area is compact and lively)

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from about 192 reviews. Many highlight how well-informed guides like Luis, Juana, Christian, Gabriel, and others are—often describing them as “very knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “great storytellers.” People love learning about the social and political symbolism behind the murals, which elevates the experience beyond just viewing art.

One commenter notes that the tour “showed art we never would have found on our own” and appreciated how it “connects the art to Colombia’s history and current issues.” Others mention the coca tea as a memorable treat and the small group setting as making the experience more intimate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers with an interest in art, culture, and social issues. It’s perfect if you want to see Bogotá through the lens of its street murals and learn what they mean in context. It’s also a good choice for those who value small-group tours and personalized stories. If your goal is a quick, affordable, and authentic glimpse into Colombia’s urban art scene with a local flavor, this tour hits all the right notes.

Final Thoughts

In a city like Bogotá, where history and modern activism collide on the walls, this La Candelaria Graffiti & Urban Art Tour offers a meaningful, visually stunning experience. You’ll discover that Bogotá’s murals are more than splashes of color—they’re powerful narratives of indigenous roots, political struggles, and societal hopes. For just $15, it’s a window into the city’s soul that you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re an art lover, a social history buff, or simply curious about Colombia’s vibrant street culture, this tour provides a well-rounded, engaging perspective. You’ll leave not only with stunning photos but also with a deeper understanding of Bogotá’s evolving identity—one mural at a time.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll walk between the stops, which are all within La Candelaria’s compact historic district.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, since you’ll be walking for about 2.5 hours. A camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are also recommended.

Are the tours available in both Spanish and English?
Yes, the tours are offered in Spanish and English, sometimes simultaneously depending on the group. Check availability for your preferred language.

What’s the significance of the coca leaf tea?
It’s a traditional Colombian beverage, often associated with indigenous practices. It’s included in the tour as a cultural experience and support for local artists.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option for travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on art and social stories generally appeals to older children and teens interested in culture. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

To sum it up, this tour provides a rare opportunity to see Bogotá’s walls as a canvas for cultural expression. It’s affordable, insightful, and perfect for travelers wanting a meaningful glimpse into Colombia’s urban soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby