Welcome to Bogota
The Platypus Hotel is located near the center of Bogota in the historic La Candelaria district (see the maps page for directions). The area is noted for its classic architecture, and the hotel is within walking distance of many museums, landmarks, restaurants and bars.
The "Rough Guide to South America (2004)" calls the Platypus "an institution - some even say the best hostel in all South America, mostly because Colombian-born English-German-French speaking owner German - pronounced Herman - warmly shares knowledge accumulated from extensive travels. An around-the-clock lounge serves free coffee. Comfortable shared and private rooms with kitchen facilities."
You can read other travelers' opinions in the "Guestbook" section of our photo page.
Why a Platypus? Read the legend of the Platypus as told by Francise Firebrace.
We've heard a lot of stories from travelers over the years, and we've put a few warnings from the streets of Bogotá on this page. It would be worth your time to have a look.
If you're thinking about using cocaine during your stay in Colombia, we hope you will consider your decision carefully. You can learn about the drug and its health effects at Wikipedia and see a video showing how it's produced here. The production of cocaine also significantly damages the environment of Colombia. And money spent on cocaine goes directly to support groups fighting in Colombia's internal conflict, leading to assassinations, massacres and one of the world's largest refugee problems. This conflict is excellently summarized in this Reuters report. If not for your own well-being, we would encourage you to refrain from supporting violence against the Colombian people by purchasing cocaine.