Exploring Bogotá on a Budget: How I Experienced Colombia’s Capital for Under $600

Bogotá, Colombia, had been on my bucket list for a while, but as a budget traveler, I knew I had to get creative to make the trip happen without overspending. With some strategic planning, I managed to experience the city’s rich culture, delicious food, and breathtaking sights—all for under $600. Here’s how I did it!

The first step to any budget trip is finding a cheap flight. I used Google Flights and Skyscanner to track prices and set alerts. After a few weeks of monitoring, I scored a round-trip ticket from Miami to Bogotá for just $280 with a budget airline. The trick? Being flexible with my travel dates and avoiding peak seasons. I also packed light to skip extra baggage fees!

Rather than opting for a standard hotel, I found a charming boutique hostel in La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historic district, for just $18 a night. The place had private rooms, a cozy common area, and even free breakfast! Staying in a hostel allowed me to meet fellow travelers, get insider tips from locals, and save money while still enjoying a comfortable stay. For five nights, my total lodging cost was just $90.

Bogotá is home to incredible museums, many of which are either free or extremely affordable. The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) was a must-see and only cost about $1.50 for entry. I also visited the Botero Museum, which showcases works by Colombia’s most famous artist—completely free of charge! Walking through La Candelaria’s colorful streets was like stepping into a painting, and the best part? It didn’t cost a dime.

One of my favorite experiences was taking the cable car up to Monserrate, a mountain that offers panoramic views of Bogotá. The round-trip ticket cost about $6, and the view at sunset was worth every penny. I also spent an afternoon wandering through Usaquén, a charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, artisan markets, and great street performances. To top it off, I took a free walking tour, where a local guide shared fascinating stories about Bogotá’s history.

Colombian cuisine is rich in flavor and surprisingly affordable. I indulged in arepas, empanadas, and fresh fruit juices from street vendors for just a couple of dollars each. Ajiaco, Bogotá’s famous chicken and potato soup, was a hearty meal that cost me only $5 at a local eatery. By sticking to local restaurants and avoiding touristy spots, I kept my food budget at around $70 for the entire trip.

  • Flights: $280
  • Accommodation (5 nights): $90
  • Museum visits & sightseeing: $15
  • Transportation (buses, taxis, cable car): $40
  • Food & drinks: $70
  • Miscellaneous & souvenirs: $40
    Total: $535

Final Thoughts

Bogotá proved to be an incredible and budget-friendly destination. With its mix of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, I never once felt like I was missing out by traveling on a budget. This trip showed me once again that with smart planning and a little flexibility, you can experience the world without spending a fortune. If Bogotá isn’t on your radar yet, it should be!