Bogotá City Tour, Bogotá

Bogotá is one of Latin America's most interesting and historic capital cities. At one time it was the seat of government for the new South American republic after independence from Spain. Believe it or not, many historic landmarks from those independence years still stand in Bogotá even now. A half-day walking tour of the city covers many of these sites, plus can't-miss museums and local markets abuzz with activity. 

The tour begins in the historic heart of Spanish-colonial Bogotá: the hillside neighborhood La Candelaria. Its narrow streets running between artisanal shops and colorful houses make for a great stroll. The tour continues to Plaza Bolívar, the city's main square, which dates back to 1539. There's a grand cathedral here and important government buildings, such as the Capitolio Nacional (Colombia's congress building). You can also visit the incomparable Gold Museum, which houses more Pre-Columbian gold artifacts than any other museum on the continent; the Botero museum, featuring works by Colombia's foremost sculptor, Fernando Botero; and the Mercado de Paloquemao, the largest municipal market in the city.