Bogotá sits at 2,640 meters (8,661 feet) above sea level, which affects most people unless you're already accustomed to high altitude. Stay hydrated and take it easy for the first couple of days: You'll likely feel tired and maybe a little nauseous if you do anything too strenuous.

You'll also want to keep this in mind when packing. Bring a jacket because, despite being close to the equator, Bogotá’s high altitude means it can get quite cool at night. But you’ll also want to pack sunscreen–the higher altitude means it’s far easier to burn without realizing it, especially on windy days.

There are endless ways to explore Bogotá and you’ll want to choose each option carefully depending on the time of day. The large size of the city means traffic can be awful during peak hours, when cycling or walking is preferable. Off-peak, the TransMilenio bus service is the easiest way to get around, using a Tullave card.

For shorter distances, look into the city's extensive network of bike lanes called Ciclorutas. Bogotá is surrounded by mountains and these regions are covered by cable cars, with incredible views over the city during sunset. At night, just call a taxi via an app, like Tappsi and EasyTaxi.

While it has a growing number of fine dining options, Bogotá’s street food and casual dining scene has plenty to offer, too. Don’t miss out on trying ajiaco, a traditional Andean soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and a local herb called guascas.

Buy fresh arepas from street vendors and visit the local fruit markets to taste feijoa and lulo. The bakery scene in Bogotá is well worth a try, too; you’ll find plenty of pastry-and-cheese varieties at La Puerta Falsa, the city’s oldest restaurant, or sweet and savory offerings throughout the city. For all of the above, you’ll want to bring cash and, ideally, small change.

Colombians have a saying, “no dar papaya” ( “don’t give away your papaya”), and means “don’t put yourself in dangerous situations unnecessarily.” Like any big city, Bogotá has safe areas and not-so-safe areas. Keep expensive belongings away and don’t flash your phone or cash.

If you’re heading out at night, stick to well-lit areas and call a taxi via an app rather than hailing one on the street. Tappsi and EasyTaxi are two common options here, as well as Uber, although keep in mind that drivers will almost always ask you to sit in the front seat. It’s perfectly safe and normal to do so.

Unlike elsewhere in Latin America, a “tinto” in Colombia is a coffee, not a wine. You’ll see sellers on most street corners pushing carts and serving up coffee served with sugar and vanilla.

Another one you’ll likely be offered, mostly on social occasions or at clubs, is aguadiente: a locally-brewed spirit made from sugarcane and infused with anise. You’ll come across aguadiente in a few different forms but, generally, expect a bad hangover. Its name translates to “burning water,” which tells you all you need to know about its effectiveness.