Bogota Airport with Kids — Getting to the City as a Family

Arriving in Bogota with children adds a few considerations beyond the usual luggage and transport logistics. The altitude, the language, and the car seat situation all need attention.

The altitude factor

Bogota sits at 2,548 meters (8,360 feet) above sea level. Adults often feel the altitude within the first few hours — shortness of breath, mild headache, fatigue. Children can be more sensitive to it.

Practical advice for families:

• Keep children hydrated from the moment you land
• Take it slow. Do not rush through the airport or pack activities into your first day
• Watch for symptoms in young children who cannot describe how they feel — irritability, loss of appetite, or unusual tiredness
• The altitude does not require medical preparation for most healthy children, but mention your travel plans to your pediatrician if you have concerns

Child car seats in Bogota

Colombian law requires child restraints, but enforcement is weak and taxis are effectively exempt. Here is what each transport option offers:

For families who want proper child restraints, a pre-booked transfer is the only practical airport option. Request infant carriers, toddler seats, or boosters based on your children's ages.

Best transport for families

The taxi dispatch with kids

If you take the official taxi, the dispatch counter process is straightforward but involves standing in line and walking outside with your bags and children. The terminal is air-conditioned but Bogota's high altitude means it can feel cool — have a light jacket accessible for kids.

Taxi drivers rarely speak English. If your hotel address is on your phone, show it to the driver. Have the hotel's phone number ready in case of confusion.

The TransMilenio — not for families

The TransMilenio bus system is not suitable for families arriving at the airport. It involves crowded buses, multiple transfers, and is challenging even for solo travelers with luggage. Skip it entirely with children.

Tips for families arriving at El Dorado

• Book a transfer if this is your first visit. The peace of mind is worth it.
• Have Colombian Pesos ready. Use an ATM in the terminal — the exchange counters are overpriced. A metered taxi to a central address should come to roughly COP 36,000 on the published tariff, plus COP 3,800 if you land between 20:00 and 05:00.
• Pack snacks for the car ride. Bogota traffic can mean 45-90 minutes in the vehicle during rush hours.
• Bring layers. Bogota's weather at altitude is cooler than you expect — daytime temperatures average 15-20 degrees Celsius.
• Do not over-schedule day one. Between the altitude, travel fatigue, and time zone adjustment, children need time to acclimate.