Viejo Bogota Food Tour with 12+ Tastings

Discover Bogotá’s Flavors with the Viejo Bogota Food Tour

When we think of Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, many envision vibrant street life, colorful street art, and historic plazas. But one of the best ways to truly understand a city is through its food. This small-group tour, led by a passionate guide—often Andres or Julien—offers a deep dive into Bogotá’s culinary traditions, visiting local eateries, markets, and hidden gems, all for just $49 per person. The experience lasts roughly 4 hours, with more than 12 tastings included, making it a fantastic value for anyone eager to explore Colombian cuisine beyond the usual tourist spots.

Two aspects we particularly love are the intimate size of the group—a maximum of 8 people—which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace, and the variety of foods. From exotic fruits at a bustling market to slow-cooked dishes and even a game of tejo, the tour offers both delicious bites and engaging activities. A key highlight is the coffee workshop at the end, where you’ll learn why Colombia’s beans are world-renowned.

A potential consideration is that this tour involves considerable walking through busy streets and neighborhoods, which might be tiring for some. Also, since it operates rain or shine, bringing an umbrella is always smart.

This tour suits food lovers, curious travelers eager to see local neighborhoods, and anyone who enjoys a mix of culinary education with cultural insight. If you want to sample authentic Colombian dishes while discovering Bogotá’s daily life, this experience could be just right.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Food: Experience Bogotá’s cuisine at eateries favored by residents, not just travelers.
• Personalized Experience: Small groups ensure attention from guides who are enthusiastic about food and culture.
• Diverse Tastings: Expect over 12 different foods, from exotic fruits to hearty soups and local snacks.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share stories about Colombian food, history, and neighborhood life.
• Interactive Elements: Play tejo, Colombia’s explosive national pastime, and learn about the country’s finest coffee.
• Great Value: For $49, you get a full afternoon of eating, drinking, and learning—worth every peso.

A Deep Dive into Bogotá’s Culinary Scene

On paper, a food tour in Bogotá might seem straightforward, but this one truly stands out thanks to its thoughtful itinerary and passionate guides. As we walk through La Perseverancia Market and some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, the tour reveals both the everyday food of Bogotá and its cultural significance.

Market Visits and Exotic Fruits

Our journey begins at La Perseverancia Market, a lively hub where locals shop for everything from vegetables to exotic fruits. Our guide, Andres or Julien, points out unusual fruits—some you might never have seen before—and explains their significance in Colombian diets. This is a great way to start because it sets the tone for the tour: authentic, local, and full of surprises.

Sampling the City’s Favorite Dishes

Next, we visit a humble chicheria. Here, the air is thick with the aroma of fermented drinks and fried foods, and the guide shares stories about local traditions. For carnivores, there’s no missing the lechona—stuffed suckling pig with crunchy, golden skin—which is both a feast for the eyes and the palate. The portions are generous, and as multiple reviews mention, you’ll find yourself pleasantly full by the end.

Then, the tour takes us into a tiny eatery serving ajiaco, Bogotá’s traditional chicken and potato soup. Our guide explains how this dish varies across regions and its roots in indigenous cuisine. We also try buñuelos—deep-fried doughnuts—which are perfect comfort food.

Local Beverages and Fun Activities

The tour isn’t just about eating; it incorporates some playful fun with a game of tejo—Colombia’s explosive national pastime involving metal discs and gunpowder! And of course, no visit is complete without a cold beer or juice to wash everything down.

Neighborhood Walks and Hidden Eateries

As we continue roaming the streets of La Candelaria, the guide shares insights about local life, architecture, and history. We love how the stops are carefully chosen—places that locals frequent and travelers often miss—adding to the authenticity.

Coffee Workshop: A Perfect Endnote

The finale is a coffee tasting workshop at Casa Magola café, just a short walk from the main sights. Here, we learn what makes Colombian coffee so special, tasting different beans and brewing techniques. It’s an educational experience that enhances our appreciation for Colombia’s famous export.

Authenticity and Learning at the Core

What sets this tour apart is not just the food, but the storytelling and local perspective. Reviewers rave about the guides’ knowledge and genuine enthusiasm. Andres, for example, is praised for his ability to tailor the experience to dietary restrictions and for his deep knowledge of food history and Colombian culture. Julien is also highlighted for his fluency in multiple languages and cultural insights.

This isn’t a cookie-cutter tour designed to tick off boxes. Every stop is thoughtfully curated to give a broad yet intimate look at Bogotá’s culinary diversity, from regional dishes to street snacks.

What You Can Expect in Terms of Length, Price, and Experience

For $49, this tour offers extraordinary value—over 12 tastings, a coffee workshop, and some local games—and all within a 4-hour window. The small group size (maximum 8) means you’ll get personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and connect with your guide.

The walking pace is moderate, and since the tour takes place in the historic La Candelaria district, you’ll enjoy picturesque streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets along the way. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for weather changes, as the tour operates rain or shine.

Despite the busy schedule, reviewers note that the portions are generous—many feel comfortably full by the end. For those with particular dietary needs, some venues offer signature menus, but check with your guide beforehand to ensure your preferences are accommodated.

Why This Tour Works

Travelers love the blend of food, culture, and fun in this experience. The local guides’ knowledge and passion shine through, making each tasting informative and engaging. Reviews repeatedly mention how much they learned about Colombian history through its food and how the tour shifted their understanding from just sightseeing to a savoring of local life.

The small group size creates a friendly, conversational atmosphere, and the variety of foods—ranging from fruits to soups, snacks, and drinks—means you’ll leave feeling both satisfied and culturally enriched.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for food lovers eager to sample Bogotá’s culinary staples and culture enthusiasts who enjoy walking through neighborhoods and learning stories behind the food. It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a guided introduction to the city’s diverse districts and flavors.

If you’re traveling with moderate physical fitness, comfortable shoes, and an appetite for both food and stories, you’ll find this tour an unforgettable highlight. It’s also suitable for those with dietary restrictions, as guides are praised for their flexibility and attention.

Final Thoughts

The Viejo Bogota Food Tour offers an authentic, engaging, and flavorful way to get to know Bogotá. The combination of delicious foods, local insights, and interactive activities makes it a genuinely rewarding experience. Whether you’re a foodie wanting to taste Colombia’s best bites or a curious traveler keen to explore neighborhoods beyond the main sights, this tour delivers.

While it involves some walking and a fair amount of food, those aspects only add to the sense of discovery. The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and the guides’ enthusiasm keeps the experience lively and educational.

If your goal is to go beyond the typical tourist fare and truly understand Bogotá through its food traditions and neighborhoods, this tour is an excellent choice—delivering a hearty taste of Colombia’s capital.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the pace of the group and weather conditions.

What is included in the price?
You get over 12 food tastings, bottled water, a professional guide, a coffee workshop, and a game of tejo.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, guides have been praised for tailoring the experience for those with restrictions, but it’s best to inform them beforehand.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Parqueadero La 5ta en Plaza La Perseverancia and ends near the Casa Magola café in La Candelaria, close to major sights like the Botero Museum.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but the meeting point is accessible by public transit. Guides can assist with directions afterward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Be prepared for possible rain—an umbrella is a good idea.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities and pace suit travelers with moderate physical fitness and an interest in food and culture. Check with the provider if you have very young children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

What makes this tour a good value?
For just $49, you receive a comprehensive cultural and culinary experience—more than enough food, insights, and fun activities—to make it well worth the price.

Whether you’re a curious traveler, a foodie, or a cultural explorer, the Viejo Bogota Food Tour offers a genuine taste of Bogotá—both literally and figuratively. It’s more than just a food tour; it’s a chance to connect with the city’s soul one bite at a time.