Updated: · by Frank Spitzer
Top 15 Must-See Parks in Bogota, Colombia
Bogota is a green city — more green-space per resident than most Latin American capitals — and its parks are where the city breathes on weekends. From Simon Bolivar Park (Latin America’s largest urban park, bigger than Central Park in New York) down to the Sunday-only Carrera Septima Ciclovia transformation, this guide covers 15 parks worth your time as a visitor. Ranked by location, character and what you’ll actually do there.
Start with the Video — Monserrate, Bogota’s Iconic Hill Park
Before the park list, watch this short tour of Monserrate — the 3,150-metre peak above Bogota that functions as the city’s most iconic outdoor space. It’s not on the list below because it’s a hill rather than a park, but it tells you what ‘green Bogota’ looks like.
I am Frank Spitzer, founder of Pelecanus Travel (RNT 51402, IAGTO member, Bogotá-based since 2017). We design tailor-made trips through Colombia for travellers who want depth over package tourism. Send me a message to start planning.
Table of Contents
Bogota is much more than buildings and traffic; it is a green paradise waiting to be explored. The city is full of incredible parks, where nature and beauty combine to offer you an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are the 15 most spectacular parks you should include in your itinerary around the capital.
Parque Simón Bolívar
Calle 63 # 59a-06
Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can enjoy musical and cultural events such as Rock al Parque, the largest free rock festival in Latin America, or the Bogota Summer Festival, which offers sports, recreational and artistic activities for the whole family.
“A huge park with a lake and lots of green spaces to relax in.” This is how a Mexican tourist describes one of the most important places in the city.
The park is located in the Teusaquillo district, halfway between the airport and the city center of Bogotá. It’s the perfect park to spend time with friends and/or family. A wide variety of activities can be carried out within the park. In addition to boats on the small lake, there is also an outdoor gym and children’s playgrounds. All of this is embedded in the deepest green.
Established in 1968 during Pope Paul VI’s visit, it’s now Colombia’s biggest park, sprawling over 910,000 square meters of greenery. This spot’s hosted various happenings, including Rock al Parque, one of the continent’s top music festivals.
This park is also perfect for picnics since they allow food to be brought in. So, it’s recommended for families, friend groups, or couples.
How to get there?
You can access it using public transportation or a taxi. Near Simón Bolívar Park, the following SITP routes pass by: 291, C41, C705, E44, E70, F404, G503, K303, and K904. The nearest Transmilenio station is “Salitre – El Greco”.
Parque de los Periodistas Gabriel García Márquez
Carrera 3 # 17-2
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry: Free
Highlights: The Templete del Libertador is a monument dedicated to Simón Bolívar, inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Rome.
If you want to immerse yourself in Colombian history and culture, the Parque de los Periodistas is a must-see. A Chilean tourist described it as: “One of the most traditional postcard locations in Bogotá. It’s at the beginning (or end) of the route to the historic center and is well worth a visit.”
Founded in 1883, the park owes its name to the fact that it was a meeting place for journalists in the 1960s. Since 2014 it has been named after the Nobel Prize winner for literature and chronicler Gabriel García Márquez.
Visiting this place opens up the opportunity to explore all the culture present in the historic center of Bogotá. You’ll be able to visit places like the Gold Museum (just 5 minutes away), Plaza de Bolívar (15 minutes on foot), or dine in renowned restaurants like La Bruja (a 10-minute walk).
How to get there?
Getting there is easy, you can use public transportation, Transmilenio, and get off at the “Las Aguas” station. The park is right across the street. Also, these SITP services pass near the place: 97, A702, L325, and L422.
Parque El Virrey
Calle 87 between Carrera 7 and Autopista Norte
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry: Free
Highlights: Various events are also held in the park, including the Alimentarte gastronomic festival a gastronomic festival that supports a charitable cause, or the Christmas lights, that decorate and illuminate the park during December.
If you want a quiet day, El Virrey Park is a very good option. A Mexican tourist described the park as: “A good place to go for a walk, very nice, families can have fun on weekends and do rollerblade, bike and picnic.”
The park, with an approximate length of 1.7 kilometers, is located in the Chapinero district, just a 10-minute walk from the Andino shopping center. It is considered to be the lung in the north of Bogotá. There is a large green area where you can rest, relax and spend time with your family or travel companions.
El Virrey Park was founded in 1998 with the aim of preserving as many trees and green spaces as possible. Currently, thanks to its large size, it is used in the afternoons and at night for jogging or simply for walking.
Here, various events have also been celebrated, such as the Alimentarte gastronomic festival. Additionally, in the area, there are different renowned restaurants like Vapiano or La Toscana. Even the famous Parque de la 93 is about a 10-minute walk away.
How to get there?
Getting to it on TransMilenio isn’t complicated; the park is just 5 minutes away from the “Virrey” station. You can take the following articulated buses: 8, B18, B23, and B26.
Also, these SITP services pass near the place: 193B, A410, L919, and P500.
Parque de la 93
Calle 93 # 12-41
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can attend cultural and recreational events that take place in the park, such as concerts, festivals, exhibitions and fairs. The park is a meeting point for locals and foreigners who want to have fun and relax in a safe and exclusive area.
One of the most beautiful parts of Bogotá is Parque de la 93. A Costa Rican tourist writes that this place is “A peaceful, cozy place with lots of trees, surrounded by seating where you can read, have a drink, enjoy a coffee, or you can also get a beer and delicious food and at a good price”.
The Park of 93 is located in the Chapinero district, in the financial sector of the city, a 20-minute walk from the Andino Shopping Center.
It can accommodate up to 5000 people. Therefore, this place has been the venue for various cultural events and concerts of different kinds.
Open to the public since 1995, the park is currently visited by people practicing yoga or simply seeking relaxation or meeting up with friends. Additionally, thanks to its children’s areas, it’s ideal for family visits.
In the surroundings of this place, you’ll find renowned restaurants like McDonald’s or Crepes, and bars such as Bogotá Beer Company or El Mono Bandido.
How to get there?
You can get there by public transportation. The following SITP routes pass near Parque de la 93: 19-3, 19-8, 193B, A410/F410, 421, P500, T25, and on Transmilenio, you can take the articulated bus M86.
Additionally, the nearest Transmilenio station is “Virrey”.
Parque de los Novios
Calle 63 # 45-10
Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: The lake is the main attraction of the park and the home of different species of birds and fish.
Founded in 1975, Parque de los Novios is an ideal place to break out of the routine or pursue a romantic plan. According to a tourist from Honduras, this is a great place to: “Spend a day with the family and feed the ducks, geese and other birds that live in the park. The landscape is beautiful and there are several well-kept lagoons.”
The park is located in the Barrios Unidos district, just 15 minutes from the Virgilio Barco Library and Simón Bolívar Park. It has a large expanse of green spaces (23 hectares of nature). There is also a lake where various activities such as sailing, rubber rafting, water bikes or kayaking are offered.
Another attraction is the wide variety of animals. You can find fish and ducks to feed, and there are also a wide variety of exotic birds such as the African goose.
During a stay in the park, you can visit typical restaurants like La Chorizeria, Berana Parrilla or Saffron. The whole sector is full of green spaces and sports fields. There are also bowling alleys nearby, as well as the El Campín Stadium and the Movistar Arena.
How to get there?
The Parque de los Novios can be reached with the following buses: TM H72 and L25 or SITP routes: A708, 14, H605, H608, P500, T11, T163. However, the easiest way is to take a taxi.
The nearest Transmilenio station is: “Movistar Arena”.
Parque Nacional Enrique Olaya Herrera
Calle 35 # 3-50
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can enjoy the monuments that adorn the park, such as the Monument to Rafael Uribe Uribe, the Monument to the Heroes of Independence, and the Monument to Enrique Grau.
This park, inaugurated in 1934, is the second oldest park in Bogotá (only Parque de la Independencia is older).
It is located in the Santa Fe district, near several universities such as Javeriana, Distrital or Católica.
A Romanian tourist who visited this park said: “It is a very pleasant park with lots of green areas to relax in.”
During a stay, you can practice various sports such as roller hockey and inline skating. There are also tennis, basketball and futsal courts (a variant of indoor soccer). All of this on an area of more than 280 hectares, which is made up of historic buildings and green spaces.
How to get there?
To reach this park using Transmilenio, the “Av 39” station is only 10 minutes away. Some recommended services include 8, B23, B52, D21, H73, and L82.
The following SITP routes pass near the Enrique Olaya Herrera National Park: T25, H131, A642, 18-3, and 593.
Parque El Country
Calle 127C con Carrera 11D
Opening hours: 5.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: The park was formerly the polo field of the Country Club of Bogotá, and it was opened to the public in 2007. The park is planned to become a center of cultural, recreational and sports activities for the locality
Open to the public since 2007, El Country Park has a large number of green spaces. A Panamanian tourist mentioned that this place is “really spacious, the grass is well-trimmed. There are restroom facilities. The view is spectacular. The weather is the best.”
Located in the Usaquén district, just two blocks from Unicentro Shopping Center, this park is ideal for sports like soccer or ultimate frisbee.
Additionally, it has been the venue for various events, such as the Jazz al Parque Festival.
How to get there?
You can access this destination using public transportation. The following SITP routes pass near El Country Park: 191, 192, 344, 489, 722, B303, B918/F918, and B901.
Additionally, the nearest Transmilenio station is “Calle 127”.
Parque Virgilio Barco
Avenida Carrera 60 # 57 – 60
Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can admire the architecture and landscape designed by Rogelio Salmona, who created a virtual map of the highlands of Cundinamarca and Boyacá with water mirrors, slopes, paths and gardens.
The park is located in the Teusaquillo district, just a 5-minute walk from Simón Bolívar Park, and has been open to the public since 2002. It bears the name of former President Virgilio Barco.
In this space lies one of the country’s most beautiful buildings: the Virgilio Barco Library, where various events such as talks and courses are often organized.
At Virgilio Barco Park, you can take several walks to explore the different attractions of the place, such as the brick-paved paths or the five water mirrors. Additionally, it also has a space for cycling paths.
How to get there?
It is possible to reach this place by public transport. You can easily reach the park using the following SITP lines: A213/D213, 674, C41 and B906/D906.
The nearest Transmilenio station is: “Movistar Arena”.
El Parque-Museo del Chicó
Carrera 7 # 93 – 01
Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Access (museum):
General public $7,000
Students and children $5,000
Elderly $5,000
Highlights: The park was donated by Mercedes Sierra de Pérez, a philanthropist who wanted to preserve the cultural and natural heritage of the city.
Another park where visitors can find rest and relaxation is Parque del Chicó. For a Panamanian tourist, this place had “an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. You can also enjoy a picnic on the manicured lawn.”
The El Chicó Museum is also located in the park. This was originally a 17th-century hacienda. It was founded in 1964 in honor of its last owner, Doña Mercedes Sierra de Pérez. Various historical objects, including goldsmithing and porcelain, are exhibited in the museum.
Located in the Chapinero district, just 15 minutes from Park 93, this park offers spaces for children, making it an ideal place to visit either with family or friends.
How to get there?
It is possible to reach this place by public transport. You can easily reach the park using the following SITP lines: 18-3, 801A, P500, T12, T13 and T25.
The nearest Transmilenio station is: “Virrey”.
Parque de la Independencia
Calle 26 Carrera 5 until 7
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can find various monuments and kiosks that reflect different architectural styles and historical periods, such as the Quiosco de la Luz, the Pabellón Industrial, and the Monumento a los Héroes de la Independencia.
Independence Park is a place where you can disconnect from the routine world. A Chilean tourist describes it as “Unmissable, a great environmental landscape is concentrated in this park.”
In addition to its undeniable beauty, this park has a historical origin, as it was founded in 1910 to commemorate the first centenary of Colombia’s Independence. It is located in the Santa Fe district.
Visiting Independence Park also opens up the possibility of exploring other iconic places in the city, such as the MAMBO (Museum of Modern Art of Bogotá), the Planetarium, and the Santamaría Bullring, all within a 10-minute walk.
I recommend not skipping this attraction during your visit to Bogotá.
How to get there?
To reach this place using public transportation, the following SITP routes pass near Independence Park: 18-3, 359, 7, A501, C41. Additionally, the Transmilenio station “Museo Nacional” is a 15-minute walk away.
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The Bogota Botanical Garden has its own tropicarium and orchid collections — this 8-minute tour of the gardens shows what to expect:
Address: Calle 63 No. 68 – 95
Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Admission: Ages 5 and up: $5,000
Children under 5 and adults over 62: Free.
Highlights: Holds a living collection of approximately 2,347 species of plants representative of some of the country’s strategic ecosystems, especially the Andean forests.
The Botanical Garden is located in the Barrios Unidos district, an accessible location for both city residents and tourists. It’s the perfect place to spend time with friends and/or family.
Here, visitors can learn about Colombia’s flora and participate in different activities for children and adults, surrounded by the lushest vegetation.
This garden was created with the aim of collecting, researching, and conserving Andean and páramo species. Currently, it is the only botanical garden in the country specialized in these species.
Don’t miss the Tropicarium, the largest greenhouse in South America with amazing infrastructure (perfect for photos).
It’s also an excellent place for picnics. You can bring your own food and drinks.
How to get there?
To get here, you can use public transportation. Near the Bogotá Botanical Garden, the following SITP routes pass by: 59B, D800, F410, L800, and Z8.
The nearest Transmilenio station is Avenida Rojas.
Park Way
Avenue 24 between streets 36 and 45
Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission: Free
Highlights: Park Way is known for hosting cafes and recently fast food franchises. You can enjoy cultural and gastronomic events such as the “Park Way Wine Festival” usually held at the end of the year.
Park Way is located in the La Soledad neighborhood of the Teusaquillo district, in downtown Bogotá.
It was built in 1950 based on the theories of City Beautiful. Currently, it is one of the most important boulevards in Bogotá, with a large green area that serves as a linear park.
Truly, Park Way is a cultural meeting place. Here, visitors can have coffee, buy crafts, enter bookstores, enjoy cultural events, and visit cultural centers in the area, such as the Casa E Borrero Theater of the actress Alejandra Borrero.
How to get there?
You can access this place using public transportation. The SITP routes near Park Way are: C15, A214, A628, 128, and A319.
The nearest Transmilenio station is: “Universidad Nacional”.
Parque El Tunal
Calle 48B Sur # 21-13
Opening hours: 5.30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can enjoy the artificial lakes that cover three hectares of land, where you can rent boats or watch the water fountains. The park is also a venue for cultural and recreational events, such as festivals, concerts, and exhibitions.
“I am happy to be among you, men and women of Bogotá,” with these words, Pope John Paul II gave his speech in 1986 at one of the most beautiful and iconic sites in the city: El Tunal Park.
Founded in the early 1970s, this park located in the Tunjuelito district features various sports facilities. It has soccer fields, indoor soccer courts, basketball courts, and also boasts skating rinks and even a coliseum.
This place is ideal for people who enjoy practicing sports.
Just 10 minutes away is the Ciudad Tunal Shopping Center. Additionally, within the park, you can also visit the El Tunal Library, which offers various cultural and artistic services and activities.
How to get there?
To get to this park it is possible to use the Transmilenio service, since the “Portal del Tunal” station is only 15 minutes away from this site. In addition, these SITP services pass near the site: T96A, A620, L328 and H726.
Parque Ciudad Montes
Calle 10 sur – Carrera 38A Bis
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Entry: Free
Highlights: The park is a cultural and social space for the community, where events such as festivals and tournaments take place.
The park in the Puente Aranda district, around 20 minutes by car from the historic center of Bogotá, is known for its beauty. A Mexican tourist described it as: “A very nice park to spend time with the family or to clear your mind.”
The park features various courts and spaces for practicing sports, such as a baseball stadium. It’s ideal for active individuals and athletes.
Decorative giraffes can be found in the park, adorning the lake, and thanks to its beautiful green areas, the site is also perfect for picnics or simply relaxing.
Another important aspect of this place is its historical significance, as it houses the home of one of the independence heroes: Antonio Nariño, now converted into a museum and filled with objects from that era.
How to get there?
To get there, you can take Transmilenio, as the “Sena” station is approximately a 20-minute walk away. Additionally, these SITP services pass near the area: 135A, 143, C15, and SE6.
Parque Metropolitano Zona Franca
Calle 13 C con Carrera 106
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry: Free
Highlights: You can find a lake surrounded by flora and fauna, where you can observe exotic birds.
Recently renovated, Zona Franca Park has become a space where residents of the Fontibón district can come with their friends or family to have a good time.
The park is located on the western edge of Bogotá, near the Bogotá River and the Free Trade Zone. By car, it’s about 25 minutes from the airport. It covers 243,000 square meters, ideal for resting and relaxing. Additionally, it’s possible to see some exotic birds.
Currently, the park offers spaces for practicing soccer, volleyball, tennis, etc. It also has various games such as chess and ping pong tables.
How to get there?
You can reach this place using public transportation. The following SITP routes pass near Zona Franca Park: 16-8, K303, and P39.
The nearest Transmilenio station is: “Portal El Dorado”.
Recommendations
- Remember to arrive early to events in the parks due to the large number of people.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and an umbrella just in case.
- Check the SITP and Transmilenio bus routes from your starting point beforehand to avoid confusion. The Transmi SITP app will be your ally. And if you plan to use a taxi, ask for the reference fares before getting in or use an app.
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Related Travel Tips
- Tips for Traveling to Colombia
- Is Colombia Safe to Travel To?
- Colombia Travel Cost
- Colombia Weather & Climate
- Travel Insurance for Colombia
FAQ
Which is the biggest park in Bogota?
Parque Metropolitano Simon Bolivar at 360 hectares — larger than Central Park in New York. It contains a lake, the National Library, the Salitre Magico amusement park, and the venue for the annual Rock al Parque festival.
Are Bogota parks safe to visit?
Yes during daylight hours. The major parks (Simon Bolivar, Parque 93, El Virrey, Usaquen, Parque Nacional) all have police presence and are heavily used. Avoid park areas after dark, particularly Parque Nacional. Stick to the main paths, don’t leave valuables visible.
What is the best Bogota park for families with kids?
Simon Bolivar Park — wide green space, lakes for paddle boats, Salitre Magico amusement park adjacent, and easy bathroom access. Parque 93 is a good smaller alternative in the wealthy Chico neighbourhood with cafes ringing the green space.
When is the best time of day to visit Bogota parks?
Mid-morning to mid-afternoon, especially Sunday during Ciclovia (07:00-14:00) when surrounding streets close to cars. Avoid late afternoon to evening when crowds thin and weather often turns to rain.
How do I get from one Bogota park to another?
TransMilenio (BRT bus) covers most park-adjacent stations. Uber and DiDi are inexpensive and safer for evening returns. A full park-circuit walking day is possible if you base in Chapinero — El Virrey, Parque 93 and Usaquen are within walking distance.
Are dogs allowed in Bogota parks?
Yes in most public parks, on leash. The Bogota Botanical Garden does not allow pets. Many cafes around Parque 93 and Usaquen are dog-friendly.
References
- Instituto Distrital de Recreación y Deporte (IDRD)
- Jardín Botánico de Bogotá
- Instituto Distrital de Turismo (IDT)
- Secretaría de Movilidad Bogotá — Ciclovía
2026 update — Monserrate access, festivals in Simón Bolívar, safety, and rideshare
Monserrate — access and fares (verified 2026)
The Cerro de Monserrate (3,152 m at summit) is accessed three ways: funicular (~15 min, adult round-trip approximately COP 30,000–35,000 for foreign visitor Mon–Sat, more on Sundays), teleférico cable car (open weekends and holidays, similar pricing), or the hiking trail (free, open ~5am–1pm entry, closed on rainy days for safety). The trail is a 1,500 m gain over ~2 km — expect 60–90 minutes ascent. Altitude reminder: Bogotá starts at 2,640 m, so Monserrate summit adds another 500 m — AMS windows apply for recent-arrival visitors.
Parque Simón Bolívar — 2026 festival calendar
- FITB — Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro 2026: 20 March – 5 April (17 days), with Simón Bolívar as one of the main outdoor stages.
- Rock al Parque 2026: historically late June / early July, free entry, one of the largest free rock festivals in Latin America (since 1995). Confirm the exact weekend on the IDARTES calendar.
- Salsa al Parque, Jazz al Parque, Hip Hop al Parque: also free, spread across the year — IDARTES publishes the annual calendar.
Safety and rideshare access to parks (2026)
Bogotá 2025 homicide rate is ~15 per 100,000 — lower than Washington DC, Baltimore, and New Orleans in the same year. Parks are daytime destinations with active police presence in Parque Simón Bolívar, Parque de la 93, Parque de la Independencia and Monserrate approach. Uber, Cabify, DiDi and InDrive operate legally across all Bogotá park zones under the 2026 Administrative Court of Cundinamarca ruling on technological neutrality — approximate hotel-to-park fare COP 10,000–25,000 depending on distance.
About the Author
Spotlight on Bogotá
Colombia's capital at 2,640m in the Eastern Andes. Best season: Dec-Feb. Fly into El Dorado (BOG) — Latin America's most connected airport (97 international destinations). Signature experiences: Monserrate cable car, La Candelaria district, Museo del Oro, Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral day trip.
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