Is it safe to go to Paloquemao Market in Bogotá, Colombia?

If you are wondering whether it is safe to visit Paloquemao Market in Bogotá, the answer is yes. 

Bogotá has 19 public markets and 10 private ones, being Paloquemao the first private one in the city. Since 1972 this market has been the center of a great culinary, social, commercial, political, religious, and cultural encounter. Which offers a wide range of fruits, vegetables, meats, herbs, and other products sold by farmers and vendors who are concerned about bringing the best of their crops for the consumption of everyone.

Most Colombians visit the market during the weekends to buy the necessary food to supply their homes. And some of the most important chefs of the high cuisine are stocking up in this magical and diverse place.

But, what are the best ways to get to the market?

If you come in your own vehicle, you should know that the market has two large parking lots for cars. An entrance is on Avenida 19, between Carrera 22 and Carrera 27, in an east-west direction, an ideal option if you are coming from the city center. The other entrance is on Avenida Ferrocarril de Occidente (or Calle 22), which goes in a west-east direction. You can take that option if you are coming from Carrera 30. Additionally, there is an exclusive parking lot for motorcycles and bicycles, whose entrance is on 22nd Street.
Below you can see a map detailing all the pedestrian and vehicular entrance

If you want to experience the market to the fullest, it is recommended that you go with a local friend who can guide you on what to eat, how much to pay, which fruits you should not miss, and teach you how to bargain to get the best products. 

If you are interested in going on a guided tour in this unique spot with a fruit friend, you can visit http://321colombia.com/ for more information. The tour is called The Fruit Tour and offers one of the best gastronomic experiences you will have in your life.

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Edited by: Sara María Fernández Padilla