In El Candelario
One thing about Bogota that I recommend all travelers to experience is the nightlife. From the small, hidden away nightclubs of Chapinero to the big, booming electro-havens of La T, the rumba in Bogota is just not to be missed.
But where exactly to go? Unlike many Colombian cities, Bogota’s nightlife isn’t restricted to it’s Zona Rosa or malls, instead you’re encouraged to seek out the pick of the bunch yourself. That’s where we come in. Where to spend the blurriest of nights in Colombia’s capital city? Try these places on for size…
Behind the bar at Radio Berlin
Let’s say things kick off in Chapinero. On Calle 60 with 7 (just behind the gas station) is a place called La Tienda. Cheap tequila and beers and all all-Colombian, student-y atmosphere. Just what you need to kick of your descent…
After this you could head to Disco Jaguar for a great mix of salsa and electronica, but that’s only if you want to end the night early… If not, hop in a taxi to La Candelaria and get yourself some more beer in the decidedly grimey but character filled Dona Cesi’s. Lady is mean, but you won’t find another bar like it.
Party!
Having sunken more than your weekly allowance, why not wander on over to El Candelario. This is the pick of the bunch for backpackers since it’s jam-packed with eager Colombian students and fellow travelers. If you go home without a phone number you just haven’t been trying hard enough.
Finally, if you’re still raring to go you can go to Radio Berlin, an after hours club that is located in front of the city’s Bull Ring. Radio Berlin officially has a $20,000 entrance fee, but keep bartering and you’ll get that down to ten. Inside they play electro downstairs and a mixture of electro, indie and some Colombian music upstairs. What time does it close? Let’s just say you’ll be passing people on their way to work when you leave…
Great fun! There is also the expat haven La Villa in Zona Rosa, Romeo and Theatron for LGBT fun in Chapinero and Cafe Libro pumps up the Salsa in Parque 93. Bogota can be a non-stop party!
Well, if there were only 2 places to get drunk I would mention :
For “gringos” : The Irish Pub in Zona T. Just grab a table on the terrace (if you can get one) order a pitcher of beer and speak loud English (or even better, Russian or chinese) and wait for loooonely Colombian ladies to show interest… (watch your glass)
For cool people (you can be Gringo too, that’s fine) : Go to “El Coq” (Zona T as Well) grab a beer or a Vodka (probably the same price than the pitcher at The Irish Pub) and walk around the bar/male toilets/Outdoor space/female toilets if you’re not over drunk, you will definitely bump into something good at some point…
Pingback: One Blurry Night in Bogota « Paul B Fowler