Monserrate, Colombia via Cable Car (May 21, 2026)
While there are many ways to see Bogota, Colombia, I would argue that taking a cable car to the top of Monserrate is the best way to take in all that is Bogota. From the incredible urban sprawl, to the holding of the city between so many mountains, to the clear need for an underground subway system. Here’s the view I’m talking about:
Of course, it’s impossible to accurately capture the full view …
…but it sure is fun trying to take it all in with a single picture!
The ride up itself is fun and adventurous. Having taken similar rides throughout my world tour, I knew to get as close to the glass as possible as we “zoom out” from the ground and slowly climb up the mountain until we reach the top.
View from the front of the cable car moving backwards
I’m going to share some of the sweeping views that can be seen from the top. Yes, they utterly fail to capture the breathtaking experience of actually being there, but it’s as close as I can provide to capture the moment as best as possible.
I feel lucky that most of the weather I’ve had in Bogota has been really beautiful. It’s been easy to enjoy walking around in this city, exploring the art and cultural scenes and sample all the incredible food here. It’s been so helpful to spend quality time with Felipe who has been a truly excellent guide throughout my journey here.
Next up is Medellin where he grew up. I’m excited to experience his home town, meet his lovely wife Angela and explore this part of Columbia — in stark contrast to the city life I’ve enjoyed so far.
This is Scopolamine a.k.a. “Devil’s Breath” and has a fascinating use
As we were walking, Felipe asked me if I knew what this plant was. I didn’t. He explained that it’s called Scopolamine and while it is used medicinally to prevent motion sickness and postoperative nausea, that’s not why it’s also known as “Devil’s Breath.” It gets that name from its infamous criminal misuse. Specifically, in high doses it is used to induce extreme suggestibility and amnesia. As in, you tell someone your ATM pin, they wipe out your savings and you wake up not remembering anything. Devil’s Breath indeed!
