Bogotá is a bustling city full of life and certainly worth visiting if only to spend a few days making the most of the amenities and getting a better feel for the country's culture and history - not to mention the renowned city night-life!

For a nice afternoon trip and the best views over the city, consider taking the cable car or funicular railway up Cerro Monserrate. This has been the sight of many a miracle over the years but even without the apparitions, the views wont fail to impress!

The city has repeatedly played an important role in the shaping of the northern part of the continent and as a result, Bogotá contains a wealth of history and culture. The various museums scattered across the city centre will satisfy any curiosity you might have regarding Colombian history, particularly the Museo Nacional on Carrera 7. The incredible Museo de Oro, also houses an enormous collection of pre-Hispanic gold pieces from various indigenous tribes across the country and is a real must see.

It can't be denied that there are security issues in Bogotá, but great measures have been taken in the previous years to improve policing and the situation is improving everyday. Exercise the same caution as you would in any big city and you'll be fine. So with the plazas, parks and markets providing a nice afternoons wandering and plenty of sights to keep you busy, this is definitely a worthwhile stop for a couple of days.

Plaza Bolivar houses some of the grandest buildings in the country including: Palacio Justicia & Catedral Primada

Museo de Oro is possibly the world's most impressive collection of gold items from all over Colombia. Has excellent English translations too!

Cerro de Monserrate can be reached by cable car or funicular railway and will provide you with excellent views of the capital from the mountain peak!

Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira (1 hour north of Bogotá) is an underground cathedral made of salt. Don't miss this rare site!

Guatavita - the origin of the El Dorado legend and a quaint little Colonial style town overlooking a spectacular lake. Visit El Lago de Amor and imagine the treasures still hidden within it's depths! 1.5 to 2 hours from Bogota.