Friday Night Bar Crawl in Bogotá, Colombia

Exploring Bogotá’s Nightlife with a Local Touch: The Friday Night Bar Crawl in Chapinero

If you’re looking to dive into Bogotá’s lively nightlife, this Friday Night Bar Crawl in the trendy Chapinero neighborhood offers a perfect blend of local flavor and fun. For just $25 per person, you get to explore three bars and a hidden club, all carefully selected by local guides who know where the real action is. The tour lasts about five hours, starting at 7:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere, meet new friends, and practice some Spanish along the way.

What really sets this experience apart is the chance to connect with locals—both guides and other revelers—making it more than just a typical night out. Another highlight is the variety: from casual cocktail bars to lively nightclubs, each stop offers something unique. And at just $25, it provides genuine value, especially considering the free entries and drink deals.

One thing to keep in mind is the pace—with a new stop every hour, this is a dynamic, fast-paced evening. If you prefer to take things slow or want more time at each spot, you might consider that. But for those eager to experience Bogotá’s nightlife in a structured way and meet locals, this crawl hits the right notes.

This tour is superb for adventurous travelers, young adults, or anyone curious about Bogotá’s authentic social scene. If you enjoy lively venues, meeting locals, and trying a variety of drinks and dances, this experience will suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Join a group hosted by Bogotá locals for genuine insights and connections.
• Affordable Price: At $25, it includes free entrance to key venues and drink deals.
• Variety of Venues: From a cocktail bar to Colombia’s oldest club, each stop offers different atmospheres.
• Social & Cultural Insight: Opportunities to practice Spanish and meet Colombian friends.
• Paced for Nightlife Enthusiasts: One-hour stops keep the energy high and make the night lively.
• Ideal for Younger Travelers: Especially those interested in vibrant nightlife and authentic local scenes.

A Detailed Look at the Bogotá Friday Night Bar Crawl

Starting Point: 58 by House in Chapinero Alto

Our night begins at House 58, a well-loved cocktail bar located in the heart of Chapinero Alto, one of Bogotá’s most energetic neighborhoods. Here, we meet our guide and the group at 7:30 pm. The vibe is lively, with upbeat music and a packed crowd of locals and travelers alike. We’re offered a 2-for-1 cocktail deal, a fantastic way to kick off the night.

The two-hour stay gives plenty of time to mingle, discuss plans, and soak up the local atmosphere. This first stop sets the tone for the evening—relaxed, friendly, and buzzing with energy. The fact that this bar is known for its music and lively crowd makes it a perfect introduction, especially if you’re new to Bogotá’s nightlife scene.

Dissecting the First Stop: Disco Jaguar

Next, we head to Disco Jaguar, Colombia’s venerable dance club, with free entrance included. This spot boasts two dance floors, ensuring plenty of space to cut loose and dance to everything from Colombian beats to international hits. The energy here is contagious, and locals are packed into the club, creating an authentic, vibrant party scene.

The one-hour stop is enough to experience the lively dance floor, but it also leaves you wanting more—perhaps to come back later on your own. The history of Disco Jaguar as one of Colombia’s oldest clubs adds a sense of tradition and authenticity to the experience.

Third Stop: Tejo Turmequé

Our third destination is Tejo Turmequé, a secret spot tucked away in Bogotá’s underground scene. Here, you get to try Tejo, a traditional Colombian game involving explosive discs and clay targets with gunpowder. This is a fun and distinctly local activity—if you’re not familiar, it’s an excellent way to learn about Colombian leisure customs.

The venue is usually packed on Saturday nights, but on our Friday crawl, it’s lively and engaging. Entry is free, and the experience offers a playful break from dancing, adding cultural depth to the night. The secretive nature of this spot makes it feel like a hidden gem, rewarding those who enjoy discovering local secrets.

Final Stop: O.D.E.M (Observatorio Distrital del Exilio Musical)

The night culminates at O.D.E.M, a hidden gem in Bogotá’s Chapinero. This two-floor venue combines a rooftop bar with a lively club below, frequented by university students and young professionals. This spot is perfect for ending the night with a relaxed drink on the rooftop or dancing to local music in the club.

Entry here costs a small cover of 25,000 COP, but the atmosphere is worth it. The crowd is energetic, and the views from the rooftop are a bonus—admittedly, the views aren’t the main focus, but they add to the overall vibe. This final stop is ideal for those who want to experience Bogotá’s local nightlife in a more intimate setting.

Practicalities & Extras

• The tour is mostly walking between venues, though some venues are close enough to keep the pace lively.
• The group size caps at 35 travelers, ensuring a friendly, manageable atmosphere.
• The tour is designed for most travelers aged 18 and over, welcoming those eager to experience Bogotá’s social scene.
• The confirmation is immediate when booking, and the tour offers free cancellation if your plans change.
• The entire experience is hosted by local guides, who often also join the tour, making it easier to connect with locals and practice Spanish.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its friendly hosts and authentic vibe. One reviewer, Brent, called it an “awesome time hosted by Arnita,” highlighting her knowledge and flexibility. He mentions that it created “a memorable experience” that he and his partner will never forget—plenty of praise for the personal touch and local insights.

Another aspect travelers love is the free entries and drink deals, which make the tour very cost-effective considering the nightlife venues visited. The two-for-one cocktails at the first stop are a real bonus, allowing you to enjoy a couple of drinks without stretching your budget.

The pace and variety of venues are also appreciated, with many reviewers noting that the stops are well-chosen—each providing a different slice of Bogotá’s nightlife. The fact that locals also join the crawl enriches the experience, offering a more genuine perspective.

Why This Tour Offers Value

At $25, this experience delivers more than just a night of fun. You gain access to iconic and hidden venues, enjoy free or discounted drinks, and (most importantly) get to share the night with locals. The carefully curated stops highlight Bogotá’s diverse nightlife—from casual cocktail bars to high-energy clubs—and are designed to give visitors a taste of the city’s vibrant social scene.

While the one-hour stops keep the night lively, it’s also worth noting that this pace may be fast for those who prefer a more relaxed evening. However, if your goal is to experience Bogotá’s nightlife in an authentic, social setting, this tour is hard to beat for its mix of fun, culture, and value.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This bar crawl is ideal for adventurous, social travelers who love meeting new people and exploring local customs. Young adults or those young at heart will especially enjoy the energetic venues and vibrant crowds. It’s also perfect for newcomers wanting a guided, safe way to navigate the Bogotá nightlife scene without worrying about where to go or how to find the hidden gems.

If you’re curious about Colombian culture beyond the usual sights, the stops at Tejo or the hidden O.D.E.M club offer memorable insights into local leisure habits. And if you enjoy making new friends over drinks and dancing, this tour checks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, although some guides and locals may speak basic English, the tour is a great opportunity to practice Spanish. You’ll likely find many locals eager to chat.

How long does each stop last?
Each stop is about one hour, except the first, which is two hours, allowing enough time to enjoy your drinks, mingle, and soak up the atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is usually booked about 14 days ahead, ensuring availability and giving you time to plan.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Drinks are not included, but the first stop offers a 2-for-1 cocktail deal, and the entry to the other venues is free, making it a good deal overall.

What is the ending point of the tour?
The tour concludes at O.D.E.M, a popular rooftop and club venue where you can stay and enjoy the scene as long as you like.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly specified, generally smart-casual attire is recommended, especially for clubs and bars.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Friday Night Bar Crawl in Bogotá offers an authentic, fun-filled way to experience the city’s nightlife through the eyes of locals. With carefully chosen venues, free entries, drink deals, and the chance to connect with Colombian friends, it’s a compelling option for travelers eager to see Bogotá’s social side.

If your aim is to enjoy a lively, sociable night out while discovering hidden spots in Chapinero, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for those who want to balance fun with cultural insight, making it a memorable part of your Bogotá adventure.

Whether you’re visiting Bogotá for the first time or returning to experience the local scene, this crawl is a fantastic way to dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife while spending a reasonable amount. Just be ready for a fast-paced, energetic evening—and prepare to make some new friends along the way.