Fodor's Expert Review Cerro de Monserrate
Although dense smog often obscures the skyline, the view of chaotic Bogotá from Monserrate Hill is still breathtaking, and the sunsets are spectacular. The panorama extends from the Río Bogotá to La Candelaria, whose red Spanish tiles make it easy to spot, especially in the early morning. The church on top of Monserrate houses an image of the Fallen Christ that dates from the 1650s and is a beacon for pilgrims. Transport to the top is via teleférico (cable car) or a clear-roofed tram leaving every half hour from Monserrate Station near Quinta de Bolívar for the 15-minute journey to the peak. Both restaurants on Monserrate are good, if a little pricey; only Casa San Isidro offers dinner, so reserve in advance. Be attentive on the walk between Quinta de Bolívar and the station at night as robberies have become more common; Sundays are busiest but safest. In December 2015, the footpath to the top was closed indefinitely for safety reasons, due to structural and maintenance... READ MORE
Although dense smog often obscures the skyline, the view of chaotic Bogotá from Monserrate Hill is still breathtaking, and the sunsets are spectacular. The panorama extends from the Río Bogotá to La Candelaria, whose red Spanish tiles make it easy to spot, especially in the early morning. The church on top of Monserrate houses an image of the Fallen Christ that dates from the 1650s and is a beacon for pilgrims. Transport to the top is via teleférico (cable car) or a clear-roofed tram leaving every half hour from Monserrate Station near Quinta de Bolívar for the 15-minute journey to the peak. Both restaurants on Monserrate are good, if a little pricey; only Casa San Isidro offers dinner, so reserve in advance. Be attentive on the walk between Quinta de Bolívar and the station at night as robberies have become more common; Sundays are busiest but safest. In December 2015, the footpath to the top was closed indefinitely for safety reasons, due to structural and maintenance issues. As of publication, work continues, with no reopening date available.
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