Walking Tour La Candelaria

The walking tour of La Candelaria in Bogotá offers visitors an immersive 3-hour experience through the historic heart of the city. Led by bilingual guides, participants explore key landmarks like Plaza Del Chorro de Quevedo and Bolivar Plaza, uncovering the rich history and complex social dynamics of the area. While the tour includes a break for coffee and local fruit tastings, it also delves into Colombia’s tumultuous past, from the guerrilla and paramilitary movements to the influential emerald mafia. With an intriguing mix of cultural insights and local flavor, this walking tour promises to leave you captivated and eager to learn more.

Key Points

• The Walking Tour La Candelaria is a 3-hour guided walking tour in Bogotá, available in Spanish and English, and priced at $14.00 per person.
• The tour covers key landmarks in the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, including Chorro de Quevedo Plaza, La Concordia Market, Bolivar Plaza, and Teatro Colón.
• The tour provides insights into the indigenous Muisca culture, the emergence of guerrilla and paramilitary groups, and the impact of the lucrative emerald industry in Colombia.
• The tour includes a 25-minute break for coffee, shopping, and tasting of Colombian coffee and tropical fruits.
• The tour is subject to itinerary changes, and participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring water to enhance their experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Walking Tour La Candelaria offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Bogotá’s historic center. Priced from $14.00 per person, this 3-hour tour is available in Spanish and English.

The tour begins at Plaza Del Chorro de Quevedo and concludes at Varietale La Candelaria. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without paying upfront.

The tour provides a mix of guided walks and visits to key landmarks, including Chorro de Quevedo Plaza, La Concordia Market, Bolivar Plaza, and Teatro Colón.

With a focus on history, culture, and Colombia’s rich natural resources, this immersive experience promises an engaging and enlightening adventure in the heart of Bogotá.

Itinerary Highlights

A guided tour of the Walking Tour La Candelaria takes visitors through the historic heart of Bogotá.

The 3-hour tour begins at the Chorro de Quevedo Plaza, where guests spend 15 minutes exploring the area.

Next, the group visits the La Concordia Market for another 15 minutes.

They then spend 80 minutes exploring the charming La Candelaria neighborhood before reaching Bolívar Plaza and the Teatro Colón, allotting 15 and 10 minutes respectively.

During the tour, visitors also stop at the Plazoleta del Rosario and Santander Park, each for 10 minutes.

A 25-minute break allows time for coffee, shopping, and a coffee tasting.

History and Culture

On the Walking Tour La Candelaria, visitors explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Bogotá’s historic center.

They’ll learn about the indigenous Muiscas and the violent political conflicts that have shaped the city’s past. The tour explores the emergence of guerrilla and paramilitary groups linked to Colombia’s drug trade, as well as the country’s lucrative emerald industry.

Participants gain insights into the blend of colonial architecture and modern art that characterizes La Candelaria, and come to understand the complex social and economic forces that have influenced its development over centuries.

Guerrilla and Paramilitary

Decades of political turmoil and violent conflicts have deeply shaped La Candelaria’s history. The rise of guerrilla groups like the FARC, and paramilitary organizations linked to drug trafficking, have left an indelible mark on the neighborhood. Guerrilla groups emerged in the 1960s, fueled by socioeconomic inequalities and political marginalization. Paramilitary groups later formed to combat the guerrillas, often colluding with the military and drug cartels. This complex web of violence has had profound impacts on La Candelaria’s residents, as shown in the table below.

Impacts	Guerrilla	Paramilitary	Drug Trafficking
Violence	High	High	High
Displacement	High	High	High
Extortion	High	High	High
Social Divisions	High	High	High
Corruption	High	High	High

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Emerald Mafia and Resources

Colombia’s vast natural wealth, including its abundant emerald reserves, has long been a source of both prosperity and conflict.

The so-called "emerald mafia" has been linked to organized crime, violence, and political corruption, as various factions vie for control over this lucrative industry.

These groups have often exploited local communities, engaged in drug trafficking, and even clashed with guerrilla and paramilitary forces.

Despite efforts to regulate the emerald trade, the lure of its riches continues to fuel a complex web of illegal activities, underscoring the challenges Colombia faces in harnessing its natural resources for the benefit of all its citizens.

Coffee and Fruit Tastings

During the walking tour, visitors have the opportunity to experience the rich flavors that make Colombian cuisine so renowned.

Coffee tastings allow guests to savor the distinctive characteristics of Colombia’s world-famous coffee, known for its smooth, balanced, and aromatic profile.

Plus, the tour includes fruit and juice tastings, which showcase the vibrant and diverse array of tropical fruits that thrive in the country’s lush environments.

These culinary experiences provide a delightful glimpse into the gastronomic heritage of Colombia, enhancing the overall exploration of La Candelaria’s historic and cultural offerings.

Inclusions and Essentials

The walking tour includes several essentials to enhance the overall experience.

The tour provides health insurance, a bilingual guide, and entrance to the Colon Theater, as well as pick-up and return to the hotel.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, apply sunscreen, and bring water.

It’s important to note that itineraries are subject to change, so it’s best to check availability for starting times.

The tour offers a comprehensive package, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable exploration of La Candelaria’s rich history and culture.

• Health insurance
• Bilingual guide
• Entrance to Colon Theater
• Pick-up and return to hotel

Important Considerations

When booking the Walking Tour La Candelaria, it’s crucial to consider a few important factors. Itineraries are subject to change, so it’s best to check availability and starting times before the tour. The tour includes health insurance, a bilingual guide, entrance to the Colon Theater, and hotel pick-up and return, but attendees should still bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water. Plus, the tour may include tastings of Colombian coffee, fruits, and juices, as well as a lunch, but these details can vary. Overall, being prepared and flexible will ensure a smooth and enjoyable Walking Tour La Candelaria experience.

Consideration	Importance
Itinerary Changes	High
Appropriate Attire	Moderate
Tour Inclusions	High

Recap

The Walking Tour La Candelaria offers an immersive experience through Bogotá’s historic district. Guests explore key landmarks, learn about the city’s rich history and culture, and enjoy coffee and local fruit tastings. With bilingual guides, this tour provides valuable insights into the complex social dynamics of the area, including the influences of guerrilla, paramilitary, and the emerald mafia. It’s an informative and well-rounded introduction to the vibrant La Candelaria neighborhood.

You can check if your dates are available here: