🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Bogotá, Colombia home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s a city that will surprise and delight you. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural surroundings, and a thriving expat community, Bogotá is an excellent choice for remote workers looking to experience the best of South America. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its relatively low cost of living, makes it an attractive destination for digital nomads. In this guide, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of what it’s like to live and work in Bogotá as a digital nomad, covering everything from the best neighborhoods to stay in to the city’s thriving cultural scene.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Bogotá, digital nomads have a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are three of my favorite neighborhoods that are perfect for remote workers:
- La Macarena: This upscale neighborhood is located in the north of the city and is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a popular spot for expats and digital nomads, with plenty of coworking spaces and amenities within walking distance. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in La Macarena can range from COP 2,500,000 - 4,000,000 (approximately $650-$1,000 USD) per month.
- Chapinero: This neighborhood is located in the heart of the city and is a hub for nightlife, dining, and entertainment. It’s a great spot for digital nomads who want to be in the thick of the action, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to choose from. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chapinero can range from COP 1,800,000 - 3,000,000 (approximately $450-$750 USD) per month.
- Usaquén: This charming neighborhood is located in the north of the city and is known for its historic architecture, quaint streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a great spot for digital nomads who want to experience the authentic side of Bogotá, with plenty of local restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Usaquén can range from COP 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 (approximately $375-$625 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Bogotá is relatively low compared to other major cities in South America. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:
- Rent: COP 1,800,000 - 4,000,000 (approximately $450-$1,000 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Food: COP 10,000 - 20,000 (approximately $2.50-$5 USD) for a meal at a local restaurant, COP 5,000 - 10,000 (approximately $1.25-$2.50 USD) for a coffee or snack at a cafe
- Transportation: COP 2,000 - 4,000 (approximately $0.50-$1 USD) for a ride on public transportation, COP 10,000 - 20,000 (approximately $2.50-$5 USD) for a taxi ride
- Coworking: COP 50,000 - 100,000 (approximately $12.50-$25 USD) per day for a coworking space, COP 200,000 - 500,000 (approximately $50-$125 USD) per month for a membership
Internet & Coworking
Bogotá has a thriving coworking scene, with plenty of options to choose from. Some popular coworking spaces include:
- WeWork: Located in the financial district, WeWork offers high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of amenities. Prices start at COP 200,000 (approximately $50 USD) per month.
- HubBOG: Located in the trendy neighborhood of La Macarena, HubBOG offers a range of workspaces, including private offices and shared desks. Prices start at COP 150,000 (approximately $37.50 USD) per month.
- Selina: Located in the heart of the city, Selina offers a range of workspaces, including coworking desks and private offices. Prices start at COP 100,000 (approximately $25 USD) per month.
Internet speeds in Bogotá are generally good, with average speeds of 47 Mbps. You can expect to pay around COP 50,000 - 100,000 (approximately $12.50-$25 USD) per month for a reliable internet connection.
Bogotá has a thriving digital nomad community, with plenty of meetups and events to attend. Some popular groups include:
- Bogotá Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other digital nomads, find accommodation, and get tips on the best places to visit.
- Nomads Colombia: This group has over 500 members and is a great place to connect with other digital nomads, attend events, and get involved in the local community.
Culture & Lifestyle
Bogotá is a city that’s steeped in culture and history, with plenty of museums, galleries, and cultural events to attend. Some popular attractions include:
- Museo del Oro: This museum is home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.
- La Candelaria: This historic neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most impressive architecture, including the stunning Catedral Primada.
- Feria de las Flores: This annual festival is a celebration of music, dance, and culture, and is a must-attend for anyone visiting the city in August.
The food scene in Bogotá is also worth exploring, with plenty of local restaurants serving up delicious dishes like ajiaco, arepas, and empanadas. Some popular restaurants include:
- La Macarena: This trendy neighborhood is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, including the popular La Macarena restaurant.
- Andres Carne de Res: This iconic restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to try some of the city’s best meat dishes.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Colombia. The most common type of visa for digital nomads is the M-5 visa, which is a tourist visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to 6 months. You can apply for this visa online or at a Colombian embassy or consulate.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Bogotá:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at most phone stores or kiosks, and prices start at around COP 10,000 (approximately $2.50 USD).
- Transportation: The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and taxis. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify.
- Safety: Bogotá is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s a good idea to take precautions to stay safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
- Weather: Bogotá has a mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from 12-18°C (54-64°F). The city experiences a rainy season from April to November, so be sure to pack accordingly.