Safest Areas to stay in Bogota | Colombia

Like any other big South American capital, Bogota also has new modern areas that are fairly safe for tourists and areas that you should definitely visit but be extra cautious.

I visited several areas in Bogota and in this article, I will share with you the best and safest places where to stay in Bogota!

I will also cover some areas in Bogota that are a bit more dangerous.

Safest and best areas to stay in Bogota

Zona Rosa (or also called Zona T)

This area is one of the safest places to stay in Bogotá. It’s a modern district filled with shopping centers, restaurants, boutique shops, and plenty of entertainment options. The accommodations here offer a more contemporary and upscale atmosphere compared to other parts of the city. In Zona Rosa, you’ll find hotels like the Hilton and various boutique hotels that provide a luxurious experience at reasonable rates.

Usaquén

This area is literly above Zona Rosa. I would call it an 'extension of Zona Rosa', so also a variety of upscale dining options cafes, and boutiques. Also, a safe area to pick your accommodation in.

Chapinero

While the above areas are quite similar, Chapinero offers a bit of a different vibe but is still a fairly safe location to stay at. Here the vibe is a bit more bohemian, so I would call it a bit of a hipster district. It is a popular location among the LGBTQ+ community.

While I still think this is a good location to stay in Bogota safety-wise, I would recommend being a bit more cautious during the late hours. Like I advise in my many other South American travel guides, in locations like these that are fairly safe during the day but require being a bit more cautious during the night, the main rule is to not be the only person on the street. As long as you stick with the crowds and popular places (bars, restaurants) you will be fine.

You will find hotels like Marriott there and at the same time cheaper hostels and hostels.

Rosales

Within Chapinero district, you will find a small area called Rosales. This will be an ideal location for digital nomads staying long term, looking for a bit calmer area for longer stays but still safe. Also, Chapinero's busy area with cafes and restaurants is nearby, so you are still very conveniently located to go out and have fun.

I stay connected and avoid roaming fees with Airalo eSIMs. Get 10% off your eSIM with code ALIKI10

La Candelaria

Now this area is NOT safe during the night but I am adding it to this list because it is one of the best locations to stay at when in Bogota if you wish to stay in the historical center and be near all the major sites. The area is also full of many lovely restaurants serving local dishes. This area will also offer some very budget-friendly accommodation options. I stayed in Hostal R10 and enjoyed my stay there for the amount I paid.

So a great place for people traveling on a budget and/or wishing to be at the heart of the city. Just be extra cautious during the night. Remember my main rule - don't be the only person on the street.

If you do want to be on the safe side, consider getting travel insurance!

Areas where you should be extra cautious in Bogota

Alright, let's move on to the areas where you should be extra cautious during the day and night.

You will be exploring La Candelaria either way even if you are not staying there because it is the historical center of Bogota and features many important sites you should visit during your stay. But better to stay within the center and the main sites. Do not wander too much outside the historical center as many areas surrounding the La Candelaria area can be quite dangerous.

Now another area you will most probably visit is Monserrate. Once you are up there by the monastery it is safe and lovely as it is a massive tourist attraction but you have to be extra cautious down in the city by the tram that takes you up there. During my visit, a guy literally pulled a knife out and started to threaten people. Thankfully police were on it straight away but this is definitely not a safe area. Because it is so touristic many pickpockets are luring around waiting for their opportunity.

I could mention more areas but the rest are further away. There are no tourist sites so I don't think you will ever go there but areas to avoid to keep in mind are: Ciudad Bolívar, Kennedy, and Tunjuelito.

I hope this Bogota Safety Guide will help you plan and book your trip better. If you are looking for some inspiration for your trip to Bogota, make sure to check out my Bogota Travel Guide!