Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park is Bogotá's big green lung, a vast park in the middle-west of the city that is often compared to the major urban parks of other world capitals. It covers well over a hundred hectares of lawns, tree-lined paths, lakes, sports fields and open spaces, and on sunny weekends it fills with families, cyclists, runners, picnickers and kite flyers. The city also holds large concerts and festivals here. A guided bike tour is a pleasant way to cover the distance. You ride on dedicated paths, stop at the lakes, learn how the park was planned and see the Virgilio Barco public library, a landmark of contemporary Colombian architecture, set among the park's gardens. Riding also gives you a feel for how Bogotanos use public space, which is a big part of the city's character. The pace is relaxed, the terrain is flat, and the tour suits most fitness levels. Many visitors find it a refreshing counterpoint to museums and old streets, with a view of the city that is greener and more local than the usual itinerary.
Why go
Parks tell you a lot about a city, and Bogotá has invested heavily in public space. The same culture that closes major roads to cars on Sundays for the weekly cycling day is visible here, in the number of people who come to move, play and relax outdoors.
A bike tour helps you read that culture. You see how locals use the paths, the lakes and the lawns, you stop to talk with your guide about the city's planning and recent history, and you ride past public architecture that is easy to miss from a taxi.
The library
The Virgilio Barco library is one of the most admired public buildings in the city, designed by the architect Rogelio Salmona. Its sunken courtyards, brick walls, water features and curving ramps are a good example of the way he combined local materials with modern design. Even if you do not go inside, walking or riding around it is rewarding, and it is a quiet spot for a photograph.
What the tour involves
A guide meets you, provides a bike and a helmet and leads a group on a loop through the park with stops. The ride is easy and flat, but at 2,600 meters above sea level, you will feel the altitude more than you expect, so take it slowly and drink water. Bring a light rain jacket, since afternoon showers are common, and sun protection, because the highland sun is strong.
Planning
Weekends are the liveliest and most fun, with the most people out, while weekdays are quieter and give you more room on the paths. The park is outside the historic center, so plan transport by taxi or ride app. Combine it with the Botanical Garden for a green day, or with a food stop afterward.
Wear comfortable clothes you can ride in, and bring a small bag you can wear across your body. If you are lucky enough to be in the city when a festival or concert is on, ask your guide about it, since the park is the city's main stage for large public events and the atmosphere can be electric.
Even on a quiet day, stopping by the lake with a hot drink is a lovely way to end the ride, and many riders say it is the moment they felt most at home in the city. Your guide can usually suggest a good spot for coffee nearby.
What to expect
The experience
A guided bike ride on flat park paths, with stops at the lakes and the Virgilio Barco public library.
Best time
Weekend mornings for the liveliest atmosphere, or weekdays for quieter paths.
How long
Two to three hours including stops.
Tips
Drink water, ride slowly at altitude, bring a rain jacket and sun protection, and wear comfortable clothes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travelers who want a local, outdoor view of Bogotá.
- Families
- The flat paths and open lawns suit families with older children who can ride comfortably.
- Couples
- A relaxed, scenic ride followed by a coffee or lunch afterward.
- Pair with
- The Botanical Garden for a green day, or a food tour afterward.
- Time needed
- Half a morning or afternoon.
Good questions
What is Simón Bolívar Park?+
It is Bogotá's largest metropolitan park, with lakes, lawns, paths and sports fields that fill with locals on weekends.
Is the bike ride difficult?+
No. The paths are flat and the pace is relaxed, though the altitude makes it feel harder than it looks, so ride slowly.
What is the Virgilio Barco library?+
It is a landmark public library designed by architect Rogelio Salmona, known for its brick walls, courtyards and water features.
When is the best time to go?+
Weekend mornings are the liveliest. Weekdays are quieter and give you more room on the paths.
What should I bring?+
Water, a light rain jacket, sun protection and comfortable clothes. The tour provides the bike and usually a helmet.
