When you think of Colombia, what’s the first city that comes to mind? Probably not Bogotá. But after living here three times as a digital nomad (adding up to nearly three years!) I can tell you it deserves way more love than it gets.

Bogotá isn’t just Colombia’s capital. It’s a cultural hub with world-class food, stunning architecture, and a mild climate that keeps things comfortable year-round, all at an affordable price. But what truly makes Bogotá special is its soul.

Let me show you a glimpse of it.

Why Bogotá? My Experience as a Digital Nomad

When I first came to Bogotá back in 2015, I honestly didn’t expect much. Locals from Colombia’s coast and Medellín, where I was visiting at the time, warned me it was cold, rainy, and full of unfriendly people.

Still, curiosity won.

And yes, those first days were chilly compared to the Caribbean heat. But wow, did Bogotá steal my heart fast. The towering mountains, the crisp air, the cultural mix, the pulse of a real big city... it all felt alive and authentic. Back then, there were barely any foreigners, English wasn’t widely spoken, and everything felt raw and real.

Fast forward to 2025, and Bogotá has transformed. The city is full of energy, expats, and new opportunities. Yet it’s managed to keep that authentic local soul. Today, it’s a modern metropolis, a true hub for creativity, business, and connection.

Pros and Cons of Living in Bogotá as a Digital Nomad

Bogotá can be a bit of a paradox. It’s a city that might not charm you instantly, but once it does, it never lets you go. It rewards those who take the time to understand it.

Pros of Living in Bogotá

Cultural diversity: People from every corner of Colombia come here, bringing their traditions, food, and warmth. Add in a growing expat community, and you get a fascinating cultural mix that keeps life interesting.
Comfort and convenience: Bogotá has everything you need for a comfortable lifestyle: modern condos with mountain views, big supermarkets, cozy cafés, and a global food scene that rivals any major city. Plus, weekend getaways to nearby towns and nature are endless.
Easy-to-understand Spanish: Bogotanos are known for having one of the clearest Spanish accents in the world, perfect if you’re learning the language or just want to be understood.
Unique atmosphere: The red-brick buildings against the backdrop of towering green mountains give the city a personality you won’t find anywhere else.
Outdoor and sports culture: You've got mountain hikes right on the city’s edge, running tracks, and modern gyms. It’s just a great place to stay active.
Dance and nightlife: Bogotá’s dance culture is infectious. Salsa, techno... there’s always somewhere to move. The city is also home to one of the best techno scenes in South America!

Cons of living in Bogotá

Safety concerns: Like most major cities, Bogotá requires common sense. Avoid sketchy areas, stay alert, and you’ll be fine.
Traffic: If there’s one universal complaint, it’s the traffic. Rush hours can be brutal, and driving isn’t for the faint-hearted. Public transport or ride apps are usually the better choice.
Weather: Bogotá’s eternal spring is not for everyone. Expect mild temperatures around 18°C (64°F), frequent rain, and cloudy skies. It’s cozy once you adapt, but it takes time.

What’s the Cost of Living in Bogotá?

Bogotá offers incredible value for money. You can enjoy a high standard of living for a fraction of what you’d pay in most Western cities.

A comfortable one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood starts at around $700/month, while $2,000–$2,500 gets you a spacious luxury apartment with modern amenities, city views, and maybe even a gym or rooftop terrace.

Eating out is where Bogotá really shines. A menu del día (the local lunch special) costs between $5 and $12, and a great coffee with dessert will rarely exceed $10. You can easily mix local flavors with international cuisine without overspending.

Transportation is affordable, too. A bus ride on the TransMilenio or local system costs around $0.70, and Uber or inDrive rides typically range from $5 to $20, depending on distance. Just remember to sit in the front seat to blend in like a local!

When it comes to entertainment, you’re in for a treat. Local beers start at $3, club entries are usually $10–15, and weekend plans rarely break the bank.

Finally, expect to spend around $600/month on groceries per person if you cook at home and shop at mid-range supermarkets.

What Are the Visa Options for Digital Nomads in Bogotá?

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably already convinced Bogotá is worth staying in for more than just a quick visit. The good news is that Colombia makes that pretty easy.

Tourist Stay

The simplest way to experience life in Bogotá is on a tourist stay. Most nationalities can enter visa-free for 90 days, with the option to extend for another 90 days (for a total of 180 days per calendar year). The extension process is straightforward: you’ll just need to submit a few basic documents online.

Digital Nomad Visa (V Nómadas Digitales)

Since October 2022, Colombia has officially offered a Digital Nomad Visa, allowing remote workers and entrepreneurs to live in the country for up to two years (though it’s often granted for one year at first).

To qualify, you must:

Earn at least $1,100 USD/month from a company or clients outside Colombia
Show proof of remote work or business ownership
Provide health insurance valid in Colombia

Working Remotely in Bogotá as a Digital Nomad

Bogotá is an excellent city for remote work, especially if your clients or teammates are based in the Americas. Not only are more and more foreigners and digital nomads settling here, but many locals are now working online or for international companies, helping shape a growing remote work culture in the city.

Internet and Wi-Fi

The internet in Bogotá is generally fast and reliable. Most Airbnb apartments (99%) already come with fiber-optic connections, so you’ll have no trouble staying online.

You can also get a local SIM card easily, but in my opinion it's even more convenient to use an eSIM from providers like Holafly or Saily. You can set it up instantly before you land, skip the hassle of local registration, and start working the moment you arrive.

Work Spots, Cafés, and Coworking Spaces

As Bogotá becomes more international, the number of laptop-friendly cafés and coworking spaces is booming. Every time I return, there are new places popping up faster than I can visit them all.

Here are some of my favorite coworking spaces in Bogotá:

If you'd rather work from a cozier setup with good coffee, you must try these local favorites:

Best Areas to Stay as a Digital Nomad in Bogotá

In Bogotá, choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference. If you want to live comfortably with access to good infrastructure, great views, and plenty of entertainment, here are some of the best and relatively safe areas to base yourself in.

Chapinero Alto

Perched on the slopes of the Eastern Hills, Chapinero Alto offers some of the best views in the city. It’s popular among young professionals and expats who love a mix of nature, cafés, and nightlife without being in the chaos of downtown.

Zona G

Known as Bogotá’s gastronomic district, Zona G is packed with restaurants, cafés, and bars. It’s a lively area that feels safe and social, ideal if you enjoy eating out and city vibe.

Quinta Camacho

This neighborhood is famous for its beautiful red-brick English-style architecture and tree-lined streets. It’s central, walkable, and filled with boutique offices, coworking spaces, and local restaurants, which is perfect for remote workers who want charm and convenience.

Parkway (La Soledad)

A more laid-back and creative neighborhood, Parkway feels calm during the day but comes alive at night with local bars, restaurants, and music venues. It’s a favorite among artists, students, and younger nomads looking for a balance between quiet and fun.

Top Tips for Digital Nomads in Bogotá

If you really want to get to know Bogotá (and make the most of your time here) make local friends. Colombians are absolute sweethearts, and in Bogotá, you’ll find communities for every interest imaginable. Once you do, the city truly opens up.

Here are some of my favorite things to experience while living here:

Hike the Sendero Ecológico San Francisco – Vicachá or Quebrada La Vieja for breathtaking views and the scent of pine forests right next to the city.
Catch a show at Teatro Colón, a stunning heritage theater near Plaza Bolívar.
Try Colombia’s national sport, Tejo, at Tejo La Embajada or Tejo Turmequé (beer included, of course).
Visit Revelión Bar, a cool vintage vibe with live Colombian music and an old elevator as part of the décor.
Check out Zona T, the city’s go-to nightlife area, filled with bars, live music, and the 24/7 Federal Rooftop.
Dine at La Perseverancia Market, a hidden gem for authentic local dishes; try the fish at La Esquina de Mary.
Check out Paloquemao Market, the best place to discover Colombia’s incredible variety of fruits and vegetables.
Watch out for long weekends. Colombia loves its holidays, many of which fall on Mondays and Fridays—so plan your travel around the extended breaks.

Best Digital Nomad Communities in Bogotá

Bogotá is a wonderfully diverse city, and no matter what you’re into, there’s a community waiting for you. My biggest advice is find your people. Having local and expat friends makes everyday life here richer and way more fun.

Here are a few online communities that helped me a lot when I first arrived:

Expats in Bogotá: The go-to Facebook group for anyone living in or moving to the city. Pretty much every question about expat life has already been asked (and answered) here.
Digital Nomads Bogotá (Colombia): Perfect for remote workers looking for advice, meetups, or specific tips about working and living as a nomad in Bogotá.
Bogotá | Girl Gone International: A supportive community for local and international women living in the city, full of meetups, tips, and friendships waiting to happen.

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Diana Mirs

Articles by Diana Mirs

Bogotá for Digital Nomads: The Ultimate Guide