Colombia’s capital may just be South America’s best city for incredible street art

Street art on a street in Bogota — Many of Bogota’s streets are completely covered in high-quality artwork | Nowaczyk / Shutterstock

Bogotá generally doesn’t do subtle. Its streets are alive with colour, protest, and pride even on an average day. So it’s actually pretty unsurprising that the city’s culture has made it onto the walls of almost every corner of the city.

And each mural you pass has something to say—about Colombia’s history, its struggles, or the dreams of the people who call it home. Forget stuffy galleries. In Bogotá, art is public, loud, and impossible to ignore.

How Bogotá’s Street Art Took Off

Bogota’s murals often contain themes and issues within Colombia | **Simon Mayer / Shutterstock**

Not too long ago, graffiti in Bogotá was a risky business. Tagging a wall could get you into serious trouble. Police and lawmakers were vehemently against graffiti and tagging, with the train of thought being that graffiti had a direct link to the drug trade that is still massively problematic for Colombia.

However, the millitant appeoach to graffiti changed in 2011 when 16-year-old street artist Diego Felipe Becerra was killed by police while spray-painting a wall. The city erupted. People demanded justice, not just for Diego, but for the right to express themselves without fear.

Instead of cracking down, the city made a surprising move: it embraced street art. Laws were loosened, artists were given legal spaces to paint, and public art became part of Bogotá’s identity. Today, the city is one of the world’s best places to see street art, with murals that tackle everything from climate change to corruption.

So here are the best places to see street art in Bogota, some tours that are worth joining, and some tips for enjoying Bogota’s art safely.

La Candelaria: The Heart of the Action

Graffiti on the walls of a narrow street — The streets of La Candelaria are a labyrinth of impromptu gallery walls | posztos / Shutterstock

La Candelaria is an excellent starting point. This neighbourhood, with its cobblestone streets and colourful old buildings, feels like a living museum. Walk down almost any street and you’ll find something worth stopping for: a bold political mural, a tribute to indigenous culture, or a quirky piece that makes you smile.

Some of the city’s most iconic artists have left their mark here. DJLu’s stencils are instantly recognisable—guns turning into flowers or bananas shaped like weapons, making sharp statements about violence and consumerism. Nearby, Guache’s work celebrates Colombia’s indigenous roots, using bright, swirling patterns inspired by pre-Colombian art.

Among the standout works are those by Bastardilla, one of Bogotá’s most enigmatic street artists. Known for her delicate yet powerful style, Bastardilla’s murals often feature gold-leaf elements and explore themes like gender violence and environmental destruction. Her works are deeply personal yet universal, drawing viewers in with their beauty before hitting them with their raw emotional impact. Look out for her pieces tucked away in quieter corners—they’re like hidden treasures that reward those who venture off the main tourist paths.

Distrito Graffiti: Art on an Industrial Scale

An unassuming industrial area has been transformed into a gigantic art gallery | **De Jongh Photography / Shutterstock**

For something completely different, head to Puente Aranda, an industrial area that’s been transformed into an outdoor gallery called Distrito Graffiti. The murals here are massive, covering entire buildings with bold designs that stop you in your tracks.

This is where you’ll find work by Toxicómano, a collective whose punchy, punk-inspired pieces call out capitalism and inequality.

Nearby, Stinkfish’s colourful portraits turn anonymous faces into works of art, using bright colours and abstract shapes to grab your attention. Inspired by found photographs, his murals radiate life and colour, blending abstract patterns with bold lines that seem to pulse with movement. Each piece is a celebration of humanity, turning ordinary people into larger-than-life figures.

Distrito Graffiti is constantly changing, with new murals popping up during festivals and collaborations between local and international artists.

San Felipe: Where Street Art Meets Galleries

Drone footage of colourful street art in Bogota, Colombia — San Felipe has transformes from industry to graffiti and much more | **Carlos Felipe Pardo / Flickr**

San Felipe is where Bogotá’s street art takes a more experimental turn. Once a gritty industrial zone, this neighbourhood is now home to art galleries, workshops, and murals that feel like they’re pushing boundaries.

This is a great spot to visit during events like ARTBO Fin de Semana, when galleries throw open their doors and the streets come alive with pop-up markets and live painting sessions. It’s also where you can meet the artists behind the work, many of whom sell prints and small pieces you can take home.

Wander the side streets around Calle 75 and Carrera 22, and you’ll find smaller murals tucked between galleries. It’s less polished than La Candelaria but no less exciting—this is where Bogotá’s art scene is at its most experimental and raw.

Avenida El Dorado: Bogotá’s Welcome Mat

If you’re flying into Bogotá, the first glimpse of the city’s street art will probably be along Avenida El Dorado. This main road from the airport is lined with murals, many of them tackling big themes like peace, resilience, and indigenous heritage.

Guache’s psychedelic pieces are a highlight, glowing with bright colours and intricate patterns that feel both ancient and modern. Smaller murals along the side streets tell more personal stories, often about displacement and survival during Colombia’s years of conflict.

The scale of the art here is incredible, and it sets the tone for what’s to come. Bogotá doesn’t hide its stories—they’re right there on the walls, waiting to be seen.

How to Explore Safely

Graffiti artists paint a red and yellow design — You may encounter artists at work – let them do their thing, and ask permission before photographing | **Nowaczyk / Shutterstock**

Bogotá’s street art is a feast for the eyes, but it’s important to stay mindful of your surroundings while exploring. The city has become much safer in recent years, but like any major metropolis, it requires a bit of common sense and preparation to fully enjoy without concern.

Daylight is your best ally—not just for safety but also for the best photography conditions. The murals truly come to life under the soft morning or afternoon light, and you’ll also encounter fewer crowds early in the day. Aim to complete your explorations before dusk, particularly in less central districts.

Traveling in a group adds another layer of safety. Whether you’re with friends or joining a guided tour, there’s comfort and security in numbers. Tours are particularly helpful as they’re often led by locals who know the area intimately and can guide you through Bogotá’s backstreets without worry.

When it comes to getting around, stick to reputable transportation options. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or DiDi are widely used and considered safer than hailing a taxi on the street. If you’re traveling further afield, arrange transport through your hotel or a trusted service. It’s also a good idea to carry only the essentials—leave your passport and valuables in a secure place and keep a small amount of cash for incidental purchases.

Finally, engage with the community. Bogotá’s street art is often a collaborative effort, and you may encounter artists working on new pieces. Interacting respectfully can offer insight into their process and add an extra layer of meaning to your experience, while also making you feel more connected to the area.

Bogotá Street Art Tours

Cyclists look at graffiti in Bogota — There are plenty of unique, organised Bogota graffiti tours which cover the key area | **Nowaczyk / Shutterstock**

If you’re serious about diving into Bogotá’s street art scene, guided tours are the way to go. Not only do they provide context and history behind the murals, but they also give you access to areas and stories you might miss on your own. The guides—often artists themselves—offer personal insights that bring the walls to life.

One of the most popular options is the famous Bogotá Graffiti Tour, which takes you through La Candelaria and beyond. Led by local and international artists, the tour offers a deep dive into the socio-political messages behind the murals, as well as the techniques and inspirations of the creators. It’s an excellent choice for first-timers, as it blends art appreciation with a safe and well-organised walk through the neighbourhood.

For those who prefer flexibility, self-guided options are also available. The Street Art Cities app provides detailed maps and information about many of Bogotá’s murals, allowing you to explore at your own pace. This is a great choice for independent travellers who want to balance freedom with the ability to dive into the stories behind the art.

Why Bogotá’s Street Art Matters

What makes Bogotá’s street art so special is that it’s not just decoration—it’s a way for the city to tell its story. These murals reflect the struggles and hopes of the people who live here, tackling tough topics with honesty and heart.

For visitors, it’s a way to connect with the city on a deeper level. You’re not just looking at pretty pictures—you’re getting a crash course in Bogotá’s history, culture, and spirit. So take your time, look closely, and let the walls do the talking. In Bogotá, art is everywhere, and it has a lot to say.