Information
Landmark: Jardín Botánico de BogotáCity: Bogota
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America
Jardín Botánico de Bogotá, Bogota, Colombia, South America
The Jardín Botánico de Bogotá is a botanical garden located in the city of Bogotá, Colombia. It serves as a research center and a public space for the conservation of Colombian flora.
Visual Characteristics
The garden covers 47 acres and features diverse plant collections organized into thematic zones. These include a tropical rainforest house, an arid zone, a medicinal plant garden, and an orchidarium. The landscape incorporates paved walkways, water features, and open lawn areas.
Location & Access Logistics
The botanical garden is situated at Calle 63 No. 68-95 in Bogotá. It is approximately 7 kilometers west of the city center. Access is via Avenida El Dorado (Avenida 26) and Avenida 68. Public transport options include TransMilenio bus routes that stop near the garden on Avenida 68. Limited on-site parking is available.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Established in 1955, the Jardín Botánico de Bogotá was conceived to preserve and study Colombia's rich plant biodiversity. It is built on land that was formerly part of the Hacienda Santa María del Lago. The garden's ecological purpose is to conserve native plant species, many of which are threatened.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can explore the various thematic gardens, including the Andean garden and the Amazonian section. The orchidarium houses a significant collection of Colombian orchids. Educational workshops and guided tours focusing on plant identification and conservation are offered.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within the garden. Shaded areas are provided by trees and covered structures. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent throughout the grounds. Food vendors are not typically present inside the garden, but nearby commercial areas offer dining options.
Best Time to Visit
The garden is open year-round. For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended. The climate in Bogotá is temperate, with no distinct dry or wet seasons, though occasional rain showers are common throughout the year.
Facts & Legends
The Jardín Botánico de Bogotá is home to the "Árbol de la Vida" (Tree of Life), a large Ceiba tree that is a significant symbol within the garden. It is also a crucial center for research on endemic and endangered plant species in Colombia.
Nearby Landmarks
- Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar (0.8km Southeast)
- Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogotá (MAMBO) (3.5km East)
- Centro Comercial Salitre Plaza (1.2km Southwest)
- Maloka Science Museum (1.5km West)