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Craving an authentic Colombian experience? Join the Colombia Cooking Experience in Bogotá, where you’ll learn to cook traditional dishes like fragrant Ajiaco soup and crispy Arepas from local families. Every bite is a story—spicy, soulful, and full of warmth. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of culture, laughter, and connection.
This hotel is your perfect choice in Bogotá! As a 2024 listed hotel with a high rating of 4.5, it offers everything you need for both business and family trips. The hotel features meeting rooms and a business center for work, along with childcare services to keep your little ones happy. Rooms are cozy, equipped with air conditioning and TV, plus dryers and laundry services for added convenience. Enjoy high-quality international cuisine at the restaurant, or try locally sourced drinks at the bar. Need relaxation? The massage room is just what you need. With airport pickup and drop-off services, your trip will be hassle-free!
Everything you need to know about Colombia Cooking Experience
Hotel El Cielo is a top recommendation, just a 5-minute walk from the Colombia Cooking Experience. This boutique hotel blends modern architecture with Andean cultural motifs, featuring rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Bogotá's lush urban landscape. The hotel also provides exclusive local culinary tours, allowing guests to explore traditional dishes like Aji de Gallina and Hornado potatoes while learning about their regional significance. Conveniently located near metro and bus stations, it’s ideal for seamless day-trip planning.
Travel from downtown Bogotá via the TransMilenio bus system or Uber, reaching the Colombia Cooking Experience in just 15–20 minutes. Use Google Maps for real-time navigation and avoid peak traffic. Alternatively, take the metro to Portal del Norte Station, then transfer to a shuttle bus—total trip time around 25 minutes. On-site free parking is available for drivers. Many nearby hotels, including Hotel El Cielo, offer complimentary shuttle services, which can be booked in advance for added convenience.
During the Colombia Cooking Experience, must-try dishes include Aji de Gallina, a richly spiced roasted chicken stew with a creamy yellow pepper sauce; Hornado Potatoes, slow-cooked tubers glazed with caramelized sugar and spices; and Arepa, a grilled cornmeal cake served with various fillings—crispy outside, soft inside. All recipes are taught by local chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as Andean red peppers, traditional spice blends, and handmade maize flour. Guests also learn to prepare artisanal coffee grinding and pour-over brewing, reflecting Colombia’s deep-rooted passion for food and hospitality.
Yes, the Colombia Cooking Experience is family-friendly, designed with child-safe tools and supervised hands-on activities where kids can make mini arepas and fruit salads. The 3-hour session includes a light lunch and beverage service, plus interactive elements like taste challenges and ingredient identification games. The venue features wheelchair access, baby chairs, and age-appropriate instruction. Some hotels, such as Hotel El Cielo, offer family packages including accommodation and experience tickets, making it a seamless choice for multi-generational travel.
After the cooking experience, visit the Museo Nacional de Colombia to explore rich historical and artistic collections, particularly artifacts from the Muisca indigenous culture. Alternatively, stroll through Jardín Botánico, a tropical botanical garden perfect for quiet reflection amidst lush greenery. For relaxation, head to Balanci Spa, where you can enjoy traditional Andean massage and natural mud baths. All these attractions lie within 3 km of the cooking venue, easily accessible on foot or by short ride, making them ideal extensions to a full-day itinerary.
Stay at Hotel del Prado in Bogotá’s historic district, ideally located near top cooking schools and local markets for authentic Colombian cooking experiences. This boutique hotel features Andean-inspired architecture, complimentary breakfast, and guided tours to nearby culinary hotspots like Mercado de las Aguas, where you can taste signature dishes such as Ajiaco soup and Arepa bread.
The hotel partners with local chefs to offer private cooking classes, allowing guests to prepare iconic meals like Bandeja Paisa while learning about regional ingredients and traditions. Its central location is just 300 meters from the Bogotá Metro Station, providing easy access to downtown and El Dorado International Airport—perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion.
Many guests also book pre-arranged market tours to explore the origins of key ingredients like coffee beans, native spices, and heirloom corn, making it a must-try for food lovers eager to dive into Colombia’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Hostal Las Palmas is an ideal choice for travelers joining Bogotá cooking experiences, located just a 10-minute walk from multiple cooking workshops on Carrera 12 and Avenida Caracas. The hostel offers free Wi-Fi, self-service laundry, and affordable rates with consistently high guest reviews.
Its strategic position near the Portal del Norte Metro Station provides quick access to downtown and El Dorado International Airport in under 15 minutes—perfect for independent travelers seeking convenience without compromising authenticity.
The hostal collaborates with local home chefs to offer a unique family-style cooking journey, including market visits, traditional recipe lessons, and shared dinner experiences featuring dishes like Mondongo (tripe soup) and Changua (cheese and milk broth).
With multiple bus lines connecting to La Candelaria and Usaquén, guests can easily extend their trip to explore colonial architecture and artisan markets, making this a top pick for budget-conscious travelers who value both accessibility and cultural immersion.
Yes, many Colombian cooking experiences include market tours and ingredient sourcing as a core component. In neighborhoods like La Candelaria, guides lead participants through bustling markets such as Mercado de las Aguas or Mercado de Paloquemao, where they discover fresh local ingredients like yellow chilies, lemongrass, cornmeal, coffee beans, and yuca leaves.
During the tour, expert instructors explain each ingredient’s origin, culinary use, and cultural significance, offering insight into Colombia’s agricultural heritage. Participants learn how to select premium-quality produce using traditional methods.
Some premium experiences even provide personalized shopping lists, allowing guests to curate their own ingredients before preparing dishes like Empanadas or Aji de Gallina (chicken stew) in the kitchen.
This hands-on approach emphasizes local connection and sensory immersion, transforming the cooking class into a full journey from market to meal—a must for anyone seeking authentic culinary discovery.
Popular traditional dishes in Bogotá cooking experiences include:
Bandeja Paisa: A hearty Andean platter featuring fried pork cutlet, black beans, white rice, fried plantains, avocado, boiled egg, and sour orange juice, symbolizing Colombia’s rich culinary diversity.
Ajiaco: A creamy chicken soup made with three varieties of potatoes, corn, and guava leaf, served with crema and cuban cheese, reflecting deep-rooted Andean flavors.
Arepa: A grilled cornmeal flatbread, often stuffed with cheese, chicken, or bean paste, representing a staple of everyday Colombian cuisine.
Mondongo: A savory tripe stew with onions, peppers, and aromatic herbs, known for its bold taste and cultural significance.
These dishes are not only delicious but also taught through hands-on instruction, revealing their historical roots and regional variations—making them essential elements in understanding Colombia’s culinary identity.
See what other travelers say about Colombia Cooking Experience
Staying at the Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly spacious, with well-appointed rooms that feel both luxurious and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always ready to assist with any request. From check-in to checkout, every interaction was seamless and warm. Located just a short distance from the city center, it’s easy to explore downtown via public transit or on foot. Nearby restaurants and shopping options add to the convenience. For travelers seeking comfort, style, and exceptional service in Bogotá, this hotel is a top-tier choice. Highly recommend for a memorable stay.
Staying at Mercure Bogotá Calle 100 was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood with countless dining options just a short walk away. I felt safe walking around during the day, and it only took a couple of minutes to reach restaurants, cafes, and local shops. The doorman offered to call a taxi, but I’d recommend using apps like Didi or Uber instead—they’re more convenient, allow you to track your route in real time, and often offer better pricing. The hotel itself is well-maintained, clean, and thoughtfully designed. Everything about the stay exceeded expectations, especially for the price. If you're visiting Bogotá, this is definitely a top choice.
Staying at Novotel Bogotá Parque 93 was a great experience overall. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the metro station and close to shopping areas, making it super convenient for getting around the city. The hotel’s environment and cleanliness were top-notch; the room was spotless and well-maintained. However, there’s one thing to note: the sound insulation isn’t ideal. I could hear noise from neighboring rooms and the hallway, so having complimentary earplugs available would be a helpful addition. Also, housekeeping started knocking on doors around 8:00 AM, which felt a bit early and disrupted sleep. A slight adjustment to the cleaning schedule—maybe starting at 9:00 AM—would make a big difference in guest comfort. Despite these small points, the hotel offers excellent value for money and is definitely worth considering if you're visiting Bogotá.
This hotel is absolutely perfect—right in the heart of a safe and vibrant neighborhood. The location couldn’t be better: just steps away from restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, and nightlife spots. Check-in was fast and smooth, and the staff were friendly and efficient. My room was spotless, with ideal temperature control for a comfortable night’s sleep. The breakfast was outstanding—fresh, varied, and delicious. What really stands out is how convenient and secure the area feels, making it easy to explore the city without worries. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations. This is a top-tier choice for anyone visiting Bogotá, and I’ll definitely be returning.
The location of this hotel is absolutely fantastic—everything you need is within walking distance. Just steps away from the Botanical Garden, Simón Bolívar Park, D1, Ara, Oxxo, Dollar City Gym, and right on the edge of Calle Boyacá with easy access to Avenida 26. It's incredibly convenient for both exploring the city and enjoying a quiet retreat. The price is outstanding for the quality and proximity to so many amenities. I loved the peaceful atmosphere and the thoughtful touches throughout the property. I’d definitely stay here again—highly recommend!
I stayed just one night at North House Hostel in Bogotá, and while my time there was brief, the experience was generally positive. The biggest plus was the affordable price—great for budget travelers. The location is also excellent; it's in a neighborhood full of cheap and tasty local eateries, making dining easy and wallet-friendly. Room cleanliness was acceptable for a hostel setting. However, there are a few drawbacks: no kitchen facilities, which limits self-catering options, and only one shared bathroom for the entire ground floor—this can get crowded during peak times. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly stopover with good access to food and transport. Just keep in mind the lack of privacy and basic amenities if you're expecting more comfort.
Staying at Hotel Bogota DC was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from major attractions and public transit, making it super convenient for exploring the city. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, almost like family. The rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, but the suites truly stand out—with a luxurious jacuzzi and top-notch amenities that made our stay feel extra special. The food was delicious, with rich flavors and great variety, perfect for a memorable evening. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or just want a relaxing getaway with friends or loved ones, this hotel delivers on every level. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s an experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Bogotá.
Staying at Apartaestudios Los Andes was an absolute delight. The beds were brand new and incredibly comfortable, with fluffy pillows that made for a restful night’s sleep—something I really needed since I’m a light sleeper. The location is fantastic: close to everything, yet quiet and peaceful at night, which was perfect. The restaurant serves excellent food, especially the fish—it was fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. Staff were friendly and attentive without being intrusive. My only small suggestion? Please don’t start room cleaning too early in the morning—some of us are not early risers! Overall, this place exceeded my expectations. Clean, quiet, well-located, and great value. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing, hassle-free stay in Bogotá.
Staying at Hotel Elegant Suite was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and at home. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, personal service—always smiling, always helpful. The room was immaculate, modern, and well-equipped, with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The location is perfect: just a short walk to the metro, making it easy to explore Bogotá without hassle. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches that made the experience feel personalized. If you're looking for a peaceful, welcoming retreat in the heart of the city, this place is a must-book. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at Hostel Joy Cll 85 was an unforgettable experience. The capsule-style room was a true highlight—unique, cozy, and surprisingly comfortable. Everything was spotless and well-maintained, with thoughtful touches that made the stay feel special. The location is great too, just a short walk from public transit and surrounded by local cafes and shops. It’s not just a place to sleep—it feels like part of a real adventure. I’m already planning my return visit and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for something different and authentic in Bogotá.
Staying at the Courtyard by Marriott Bogota Airport was an absolute delight. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome—friendly, efficient, and genuinely attentive. The location is incredibly convenient, just minutes from the airport with easy access to public transit if you're heading into the city. My room was clean, spacious, and well-appointed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. But the real highlight? The breakfast buffet—huge variety, fresh ingredients, and the beef soup was outstanding. Rich, flavorful, and exactly what you want to start your day right. This place easily matches a four-star experience, and honestly, it even surpassed my expectations compared to similar chain hotels in the U.S. If you're visiting Bogotá, this is a top-tier choice for comfort, service, and value. I’ll definitely be booking here again.
Perfect for a one or two-night stay! The location is super convenient, especially if you're connecting to the airport—just a quick metro ride away. The room itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained, with a good layout and comfortable bed. However, there's no air conditioning or fan in the room, and we were on the 4th floor via stairs—definitely not ideal during hot weather. It got really stuffy and uncomfortable, especially at night. A bit of ventilation improvement would make a huge difference. Still, if you're just passing through and need a simple, budget-friendly place to rest, this hotel works well for a short stop.
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