We begin this exciting adventure at the Avenida Chile Shopping Center, located at Calle 72 #10-34, with Bogexplore, a travel agency founded by Javier Arias and Magda Coronado. They aim to promote sustainable, cultural, and creative tourism.
This location is an ideal meeting point in the heart of the city. Despite the presence of many modern buildings, their design and construction reflect the history of what were once neighboring towns of Santa Fe de Bogotá. A notable example is the Our Lady of the Angels Parish (La Porciúncula), a neo-Gothic church built in 1919.
Our first stop was Lourdes Small Square, located at Carrera 13 and Calle 63. This area is home to the impressive Basilica Menor of Our Lady of Lourdes. The church, designed in a neo-Gothic style, stands as a historical and cultural symbol of Bogotá. In the square, you can enjoy the sales from local farmers and artisans, which help support the community and boost the local economy. The architecture takes you back in time, evoking the period from the 1920s to the 1960s, creating what feels like a “time machine” that connects the past with the present.
We continued our adventure on wheels, following the bike lane along Calle 63 until we reached the Virgilio Barco Library, located at La Esmeralda Avenue (# 57-60). This architectural gem was designed by the renowned Colombian-French architect Rogelio Salmona. The library serves as an urban and educational refuge, surrounded by green spaces, making it an ideal spot for a short break and for running lovers.
We enjoyed a snack while watching families, children, and pets share moments of joy and well-being. The tranquility of the environment and its relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect place to connect with nature without leaving the city.
A stop at an oasis in the middle of the city
The tour continued to Simón Bolívar Park, a place where you can breathe fresh air in the middle of the concrete jungle. We entered the park on our bikes through the entrance on Calle 53. As we rode along its trails, lakes, and green spaces, we appreciated the beauty of the surroundings. This park is the largest in Bogotá and serves as a gathering place for athletes, families, and tourists seeking a break from the city's hectic pace. The connection to nature is immediate as you pedal along its paths, enveloped by trees and stunning views.
From Simon Bolivar Park, we headed to Granja Marielita, which is located in La Esmeralda Park (Carrera 54 #44c). This place is a true paradise for animal lovers, featuring rabbits, ducks, roosters, hens, and more. The farm honors Marielita, a neighbor who dedicated her life to environmental activities. It is an educational and playful space where visitors can connect with nature and the importance of caring for the environment. The calm atmosphere and interaction with the animals make this spot unique and entertaining.
Our next and final stop was the famous house where the soap opera Yo soy Betty, la fea was filmed. Located at Carrera 18a #43 A - 59, it has been transformed into a café, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of this iconic show. Every corner of the house has been preserved to tell the story of how one of the most renowned Colombian television series was filmed. Additionally, the aroma of fresh coffee surrounds you as you explore details and anecdotes about the filming, making this visit a nostalgic and immersive experience.
Bogotá has 590 kilometers of bike lanes, making it an ideal city for exploring by bicycle. This tour is not only safe and reliable, but it also allows you to discover the city in a sustainable manner, engaging with its rich culture, architecture, and urban landscapes. Each stop on the tour will connect you with the history and transformation of the capital, giving you the opportunity to appreciate both its past and present.
Although the tour may seem brief in description, the experience of cycling through 20 kilometers—among cars, avenues, and main streets, as well as exploring classic and English-style neighborhoods, parks, and more—demonstrates that discovering the city by bicycle is a unique, enjoyable, and above all, sporty option.
At the end of our visit to Betty, la fea (Ugly Betty), we concluded our tour by taking Calle 43, which connected us back to Calle 72, our starting point. After four hours of cycling, we wrapped up this incredible journey that took us through various eras and notable spaces in Bogotá. From historic squares to vibrant parks, this bike tour highlighted how the city has integrated cycling into its mobility while also allowing us to appreciate its natural beauty and architectural richness.
Do you want to live this experience and enjoy Bogota on wheels?
- Apply sunscreen.
- Wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Hydrate frequently.
For more information about this and other bike tours, visit https://bogexplore.com/travel/plan/bike-tour
If you want to explore Bogotá in a unique and exciting way, join us for a bike tour that will lead you through time in some of the city's most iconic spots.
