your bogotá packing list
bogotá- colombia’s capital city and dreamy perch in the andes mountains. we love you despite your near constant mist, bizarre sunburns due to the city’s altitude of 8,661’ (2,600m), and the absolute vigilance you require.
if you’re getting ready for your trip to colombia’s bustling, cosmopolitan cultural center, we have the packing list for you. and if you need help planning your colombia trip- don’t be afraid to reach out!
the weather
bogotá boasts crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and chilly evenings. the altitude and proximity to the mountains affects everything, bringing almost daily showers, powerful sun rays, and a shortness of breath many are not accustomed to. we always advocate for a carry on and encourage a capsule wardrobe- bogotá’s street style is not as flashy as medellín’s or cartagena’s. expect a lot of denim, black on black, and leather boots. see your 10 day bogotá forecast here. we bet that right now, at this very moment, it is raining.
your wardrobe:
walkable shoes, boots, stylish sneakers, ideally no name brands. no flip flops or sandals (think: would i be ok with my bare feet brushing a dirty, pedestrian-heavy new york street?) if you pick one “going out” heel- make it a heeled boot or a mary jane heel. just keep in mind: closed toe is always best, lest your toes freeze and/or get kissed by sewer water.
hosting a trip, wearing a silk slip skirt and oversized office blouse.
layering is key for the city’s finicky climate. leather or denim jackets (ideally waterproof), slouchy blazers, light sweaters, or even lightweight pants (you can layer a legging underneath if you get cold) are all wonderful options. if you opt for skirts, try not to go too mini- it’s not that bogotá is necessarily conservative (it’s not), but it is a huge city where standing out might not be the right call. try to stick to your style while keeping the city’s palette in mind because you don’t want to give papaya (don’t give people a reason to take advantage of you.)
we also encourage packing some sort of athleisure, because bogotá has some gorgeous hiking and sporty activity opportunities (the ciclovía, páramos, monserrate… hell, even la candelaria’s hills can be considered a hike.)
umbrellas are fine, but not entirely necessary. sunglasses and baseball caps are welcome for the unexpected sunbursts that can come up throughout the day. again, avoid name brands. and always make sure your purse or day bag of choice can zip up. keep it in front of you for extra caution. maybe do like we do and carry around a glass bottle just in case (jk…) and remember, the best accessory is sunblock AND a calm, serious rbf when out and about.
thrifted slouchy blazer, thrifted belt, colombian blowout, colombian manicure. perfect.
leather jacket and denim, a match made in heaven and perfect for long airport good byes
tag @matriatravels with all your bogotá outfit pics (that you don’t take in busy streets, super late at night, or when you might not be as aware of your surroundings… tldr try not to take your phone out in most public settings) and be sure to pick up gorgeous leather goods, vintage, or colombian-owned brands.