The oldest large park in Bogotá, opened in 1934 and climbing from Carrera 7 into the eastern foothills across 283 hectares of lawns, pine stands and stream paths. It holds an art deco clock tower donated by the Swiss community, a small planetarium-era carousel and the trailhead paths that lead toward the hillside reserves.
Parque Nacional Enrique Olaya Herrera is the oldest large park in Bogotá, Colombia, opened in 1934. It climbs from Carrera 7 at Calle 36 into the eastern foothills between the Santa Fe and Chapinero districts, and covers 283 hectares of lawns, pine stands and stream paths. The park is a popular green space for residents of central Bogotá, especially on weekends.
Visitors find broad lawns near the lower entrance, shaded paths under tall pines and eucalyptus, and a stream that runs through the upper sections. An art deco clock tower donated by the Swiss community stands among the landmarks, and a small carousel and playground area entertain younger children. Trails climb toward the hillside reserves of the eastern mountains, offering views over the city as the paths gain height. The park is used for jogging, picnics, informal sports and quiet walks.
A typical visit takes about an hour, though a longer walk along the upper paths can fill half a day. The park is open daily from approximately 6:00AM to 6:00PM, and entry is free. Weekend mornings are the liveliest, when families and joggers fill the lower lawns and food vendors set up near the entrances. Weekday mornings are quieter and suit those who want peaceful paths and better photography.
The park is reached by TransMilenio to the Calle 39 or Profamilia stations on the Avenida Caracas corridor, and it is a short walk from the Carrera 7 entrance. Visitors should avoid the upper trails and secluded areas late in the day, keep valuables secure and stay on marked paths. Weather can change quickly at this altitude, so a light rain jacket and water are useful. The park makes a pleasant complement to the museums and churches of the nearby centre.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily approximately 6:00AM-6:00PM |
| Typical visit | 1 hour |
| Best time | Weekend mornings, when families and joggers fill the lower lawns |
| Getting there | TransMilenio to Calle 39 or Profamilia stations on the Avenida Caracas corridor |
| Address | Carrera 7 with Calle 36, Bogotá D.C., Colombia |
Location
Carrera 7 with Calle 36, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
4.6254, -74.0646 View on map
Highlights
- An art deco clock tower donated by the Swiss community
- Pine stands, lawns and stream paths across 283 hectares
- Trails toward the eastern hillside reserves
- One of Bogotá's oldest and largest urban parks, opened in 1934
Tips for visiting
- Weekend mornings are lively; weekday mornings are quieter.
- Leave before closing and avoid secluded upper paths late in the day.
- Carry water and a rain jacket, as the weather changes quickly.
- Keep valuables discreet and stay on marked paths.
- Reach it by TransMilenio to Calle 39 or Profamilia.
When to visit
Weekend mornings for a lively atmosphere, or weekday mornings for quiet paths.
Accessibility
The lower lawns and main paths are relatively level, but the upper trails are steep and uneven. Wheelchair access is best in the lower areas.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
About an hour for the lower lawns and clock tower, longer for the upper trails.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, the lawns, playground and small carousel suit families, and entry is free.
Is photography allowed?
Personal photography is welcome throughout the park.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free.