Cerro de Monserrate

Monserrate Hill, a wide aerial shot taken by drone showing the entire complex surrounded by trees on top of the mountain. In the distance, the vast city and its buildings can be seen all the way to the chain of western mountains. The sky is overcast with clouds.

Monserrate Hill, close-up of the church tower and the mountain in a drone shot, with the vast city and its buildings stretching to the western mountain range in the background. The sky is overcast with clouds.

Cable car to Monserrate Hill, seen from below, hanging from cables above the mountain and its trees. The sky is cloudy.

Monserrate Hill

At about 3,152 meters above sea level rises the hill that holds Bogotá's most iconic and representative temple, crowned by a white church that watches over the city.

You can climb the hill on foot, by cable car, or by funicular. The trail is marked for 2,350 meters, with 1,605 irregular steps. During the tour, it is a spectacle to appreciate the flora and fauna of the area. The native vegetation that is part of the Eastern Hills Forest Reserve of Bogotá is preserved there. Since the 1970s, this reserve has preserved the high Andean forest ecosystem, sub-paramo, and paramo.

You will find the Paramuno Trail, a natural paradise dedicated exclusively to bird watching, where more than 100 species live. You will be able to immerse yourself in the magic that each of its corridors transmits and meet the White-faced Fan and the famous Cundiboyacense Chamicero, a species that lives only in the departments of Cundinamarca and Boyacá. (Schedule available Monday to Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

Upon reaching the top, there is the Sanctuary of Monserrate, inaugurated in 1920, after several renovations and an earthquake destroyed the hermitage in 1898. Upon entering the temple, you will find the effigy of the Fallen Lord of Monserrate, the work of the Santafereño sculptor Pedro de Lugo and Albarracín, an impressive image of incredible realism that shows the agony and drama of the passion of Christ. Miracles are attributed to this mythical figure; many parishioners offer penance and are part of the city's religious culture. Every day, hundreds of curious and happy people come to contemplate one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the country's capital, where Bogotá appears extensive, endless, and infinite. An unmissable show!

Opening and closing times and conditions may vary, so you should check on the official site in advance. On your tour, carry protective equipment (sun-rain), wear comfortable clothing, and follow the instructions of authorized personnel. Available times are Monday to Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sundays from 5:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and holidays from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Live an unbeatable experience in the mythical Monserrate Hill. In this setting, history, nature, religiosity, and city art come together.

The pedestrian trail belongs to the city of Bogotá and is managed by the IDRD (District Institute of Recreation and Sports).