Emeralds are Colombia’s calling

The Iglesia del Carmen church and Colonial Art Museum also worthy of a photographic stop, if nothing else. The historic quarter played a pivotal role in the creation of Bogota over 500 years ago and when it comes to striking architecture it is the city’s piece de resistance. One could spend hours just soaking up the beautiful façade of the old homes and buildings along Bogota Street alone.

Almost 400 years ago a church was built atop Mount Monserrat, the striking 3,150m peak that hovers over Bogota as if protecting it from evil spirits.

A pilgrimage site for centuries, Monserrate is revered for the splendid and all-encompassing views over the city it offers as well as spellbinding sunsets. No need to make it a hard slog either! A convenient and very enjoyable cable-car will have you up the top of the peak in a jiffy so if you wish to skip the 1 hr ascent on foot you certainly can. The views of Bogota after dark, on a clear night, are simply exceptional.

On the western outskirts of the city centre is the Jardin Botanico, reputedly the largest and most comprehensively flowered in the country.

Not just a relaxing place for a nice stroll, these gardens house over 100,000 species of flora endemic to Colombia and there’s an excellent indoor facility that’s divided in the different ecosystems found throughout the country. Orchid lovers will be particularly impressed. Colombia boasts over 5,000 different types of orchids and the display in these gardens are outstanding.

Emeralds are Colombia’s calling card and easily one of the least ‘kitschy’ souvenirs you could seek. Expensive as they may be! Affordable silver jewellery is also very popular as are the hand-made artefacts locally sourced.

You’ll find a lovely cluster of souvenirs stalls, boutiques and stores in the side alleys around Plaza Bolivar and in the city’s famous Sunday markets (like Usaquen flea market) which are held all over town. Colombian coffee is also very popular although you should check import restrictions if travelling from Australia and New Zealand.

Usually, they need to be commercially prepared and vacuum packed to be allowed through but best to double check before purchasing. The country is also famous for its good quality leather goods. Just one block south of the flea market in Usaquen is the colourful Hacienda Santa Barbara, a shopper’s paradise if you’re in the market for good quality souvenirs. Bogota has taken to the ‘shopping mall’ craze and you’ll find an array of malls attracting budget and splurge shoppers alike.

Ask your hotel concierge or tour guide for more specific recommendations dependant on your wishes and budget.