My Luxurious $600 South American Trip Including Air Fare

Affordable Travel: My Eye-Opening (and Surprisingly Safe) Trip to Bogotá, Colombia

I’ll admit it—before I booked my flight to Bogotá, my perception of Colombia was shaped almost entirely by what I saw on the news and, well, Netflix. You know, the kind of stuff that makes you think the second you land, you’ll be dodging cartels like you’re in a bad action movie. But let me tell you, I could not have been more wrong. Bogotá is an absolutely incredible city, bursting with culture, energy, and affordability. Plus, it’s way safer than I expected—with some caveats, of course (more on that later).

Fine Dining in Bogotá: A $39 U.S. Meal for Only $16 (With Free Lemonade!)

Budget Breakdown for a Solo Traveler and a Duo

So, how much does it actually cost to enjoy this South American gem? Here’s how I (and possibly you) can explore Bogotá on two different budgets:

Solo Traveler – $650 Budget

Two Travelers – $800 Budget

Wait… Is Bogotá Actually Safe?

Yes! I walked around most of the city feeling completely comfortable. Of course, like any major city, there are places where you need to be a little more cautious. Stick to well-traveled areas, use Uber instead of hailing random cabs, and don’t flash your brand-new iPhone around like you’re in an Apple commercial. But overall, I found Bogotá to be just as safe as any big city in the U.S.

Exploring Bogotá: High-End Neighborhoods and Rooftop Adventures

Bogotá isn’t just budget-friendly—it’s also got some seriously upscale neighborhoods and experiences. If you’re into rooftop bars, fine dining, and stylish urban life, you’ll love these areas:

Parque 93

This is where you go if you want to sip craft cocktails on a rooftop while pretending you’re way fancier than you actually are. Packed with high-end restaurants, bars, and boutique hotels, Parque 93 is the perfect mix of elegance and energy.

Zona T (Zona Rosa)

Think of this as Bogotá’s version of a high-end nightlife district. From rooftop bars with sweeping city views to trendy clubs and international cuisine, Zona T is where you can party like you just closed a six-figure deal (even if you’re on a budget).

Chicó

This neighborhood is so fancy it makes my suburban upbringing feel inadequate. It’s home to embassies, upscale shopping, and some of the city’s best fine dining spots. If you want to see how the other half lives, this is the place.

Usaquén

A mix of charming colonial vibes and high-end sophistication, Usaquén is perfect for a Sunday stroll through its famous flea market or indulging in some of the best restaurants in town.

Beyond the Basics: Tejo, Bowling, and More Rooftop Fun

Sure, you can visit museums and historical sites, but have you ever played Tejo? It’s basically Colombian cornhole—except instead of bean bags, you throw metal disks at gunpowder-filled targets. Yes, you read that right. Add in a cold beer, and it’s a fantastic night out.

If you’re more into classic fun, Bogotá also has an impressive number of bowling alleys. Combine that with the countless rooftop restaurants and bars, and you’ll never run out of places to eat, drink, and enjoy the city’s unbeatable skyline views.

Stunning Views & a Free Made-for-You Breakfast—My Hotel’s Rooftop Dining Perk ($32 A Day Stay!)

Final Thoughts

Bogotá completely shattered my expectations. It’s safe (within reason), incredibly affordable, and packed with unique experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler making the most of a $650 budget or a couple exploring the city with $800, you’ll find a mix of culture, adventure, and a few rooftop drinks waiting for you. So forget what you saw on Netflix—Bogotá is absolutely worth the trip!