Monserrate – Views of Bogota, Colombia

Of all the things to see in Bogota, it is impossible to miss Monserrate. This mountain dominates the view of Bogota and at the top is it 10,341 feet above sea level. The view from the top is beyond amazing and worth the trip alone but the journey up to the top is lots of fun, too, and a great way to get everyone out of their comfort zone concerning the usual modes of transportation!

Be aware the altitude is very high so take it easy if you are having any symptoms of altitude sickness.

COMING SOON – What to Expect and How to Cope with Altitude Sickness

At the top of Monserrate, you’ll find a church, eateries and a market. We found a few fun items at the market as well!

Sitting top the mountain is the 17-century church, the Sanctuary of Monserrate. This church and the statue of El Senor, The Fallen Lord, are important destinations for pilgrims.

Consequently – Monserrate is CROWDED ON SUNDAYS. That means long waits for the transportation to get up to the top and long waits for the transportation to get back down to the bottom.

The main reason to visit Monserrate is the incredible view from the top which is spectacular at any time of day. Since the weather in Bogota is the least predictable of any place I’ve personally visited we feel like we just got really lucky at the time of our visit. The view was crystal clear for us! Our day visit was glorious for us, but many find the sunset view a reason to visit later in the day. I hope to get a chance to visit at that time one day.

How to get to Monserrate:

Public Transportation

You can access this popular spot from either the bus or the subway.

Tourist Bus

The tourist ‘Hop on – Hop off’ bus stops here.

Taxi or Uber

We hired a taxi to combine a visit to Monserrate and the underground salt cathedral in Zapaquira. We had a wonderful experience with drivers Jorge and Angelo and we used them several times during our visit to Bogota. We highly recommend them.

Jorge Aramando Diaz

Servicio de Transporte

+57 310 582 00 88

+57 320 854 12 86

jorge.caita@gmail.com

Angelo Rozo Vasquez

Servicio de Turismo

+57 310 262 93 95

angelorozomaster@hotmail.com

Using a taxi is comfortable and easy. You can even leave your bags in the car, if you feel comfortable, while you explore which is very convenient.

**Choose a driver wisely**

Be sure you have a trustworthy taxi driver like one that has been recommended by a hotel.

COMING SOON – Transportation Options in Colombia

How to get to the top of Monserrate:

1 – Funicular

2 – Cable Car

3 – Hike

The funicular, or train, was closed the day of our visit.

Funicular Hours

Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 11:45 am

Saturday 7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Sunday 5:30 am – 5:00 pm

Holidays 6:30 am – 11:45 am

We chose the cable car for the fun experience and the gorgeous views. Each car holds about 40 people. We got lucky on our ride up because we were first in line. This let us get the perfect viewing spot at the edge of the car.

Cable Car Hours

Monday – Saturday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am

Sundays 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

**IMPORTANT NOTE** You must buy a round-trip ticket if you intend to ride back down as well.

Bathrooms are located at the bottom (FREE) and at the top (small FEE).

Hiking Information

If you are acclimated to the altitude and your entire party is in really good shape, you might consider the hike/walk to the top which will take about an hour. Be prepared for rain as the weather in Bogota changes on a dime. The walk is free.

CLICK HERE – Bogota Weather – How to Be Prepared

Colombia is a fantastic travel destination for your family! Read before you go to get the kids ready and interested in your family adventure.

CLICK HERE – Kids Books all about Colombia

Happy Travels,

Natalie, The Educational Tourist