A Traveler’s Guide to Navigating Pharmacies in Bogotá

Even when you plan every detail of a trip, health surprises still happen. Maybe it’s an altitude headache after your first night, a case of traveler’s stomach, or the realization that your sunscreen is still sitting on the bathroom counter at home. 

Whatever the situation, people usually find themselves turning to one reliable place: the local pharmacy. Here’s how to get what you need in Bogotá.

What to Expect from Pharmacy Culture in Bogotá

Pharmacies in Bogotá may look familiar to travelers from the U.S., Canada, or Europe, but they operate a bit differently. For one, many don’t let you browse endless shelves. Instead, you walk up to the counter and describe what you need, and the pharmacist or assistant retrieves it from behind the counter.

This direct interaction is actually a huge plus. Pharmacists are well-trained and often act as a first point of contact for minor issues — from flu symptoms to altitude discomfort. In some cases, you can skip the doctor visit altogether.

The city is full of reliable chain pharmacies, especially:

• Cruz Verde – Known for in-house medical services, wide inventory, and many 24/7 locations
  
• Farmatodo – Clean, modern, and easy to navigate with self-service kiosks and cosmetics sections
  
• Locatel – Offers wellness products, eyeglasses, supplements, and equipment rentals
  

There are also many smaller neighborhood pharmacies, or droguerías, which are perfect for quick needs — though they might carry fewer imported brands or specialty items.

Where and How to Find Pharmacies

In Bogotá, pharmacies are practically everywhere. You’ll find them in shopping malls, tucked between coffee shops, next to clinics, and even inside large supermarkets. Wherever you’re staying — Zona G, Parque de la 93, Chapinero Alto, or Usaquén — you’re almost always a 5-minute walk from a major pharmacy.

Here are our go-to spots for full-service options:

• Cruz Verde Express (multiple locations, many open 24/7)
  
• Farmatodo Zona T – Reliable for both health and personal care items
  
• Locatel Usaquén – Great for wellness and medical equipment
  
• Droguería Alemana – A boutique pharmacy known for hard-to-find or imported brands
  

And if you don’t feel like stepping out? You can order from nearly every major pharmacy using Rappi, Bogotá’s all-purpose delivery app. Just search for “farmacia,” select what we need, and it’ll show up at your door — often in under 30 minutes. It’s especially helpful late at night, during rainstorms, or when dealing with illness.

If you’re staying in a hotel, the front desk can usually call or order from a trusted pharmacy— some even have standing accounts with nearby locations.

What You Can (and Can’t) Buy Without a Prescription

Colombian pharmacies are surprisingly accessible when it comes to medications — many treatments that require a prescription in other countries can be bought over the counter here. That said, there are still rules in place.

Common items available without a prescription:

• Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen)
  
• Antihistamines and allergy meds
  
• Cough and cold remedies
  
• Antacids and digestive support (e.g. loperamide, omeprazole)
  
• Topical creams and antibiotic ointments
  
• Electrolytes and rehydration solutions (very useful at altitude)
  
• Vitamins, supplements, and natural remedies
  
• Mild antibiotics (sometimes, but not always recommended without a script)
  

Items that still require a valid prescription:

• Stronger antibiotics
  
• Controlled substances (ADHD meds, opioids, sleeping pills, anxiety meds)
  
• Specialized treatments for chronic illnesses (diabetes, hypertension, etc.)
  

Travel tip: It’s smart to carry a printed or digital photo of any prescription medications — ideally with a Spanish translation. Even if it’s not legally valid for dispensing, showing the original can help pharmacists recommend an appropriate local equivalent.

Medical Advice and Communication Tips

When it comes to getting advice, Bogotá’s pharmacists are helpful, but language can be a factor. In high-traffic neighborhoods or large chains like Farmatodo, you may find English-speaking staff. Elsewhere, a few key Spanish phrases go a long way.

Here are a few to keep on your phone:

• “Tengo dolor de cabeza / estómago” – I have a headache / stomachache
  
• “¿Tiene algo para el resfriado?” – Do you have something for a cold?
  
• “Necesito una crema para una quemadura de sol” – I need a cream for a sunburn
  
• “¿Esto contiene ibuprofeno?” – Does this contain ibuprofen?
  

If you’re unsure how to describe something, showing a photo of the product or using Google Translate works surprisingly well. Staff are used to helping travelers and usually do their best to understand.

Specific Needs for Different Travelers

For Families Traveling with Children

Pharmacies in Bogotá are well-prepared for families. Most carry:

• Infant and child medications (like children’s acetaminophen)
  
• Diapers, wipes, baby formula, pacifiers, and bottles
  
• Rehydration powders (Pedialyte equivalents)
  
• Thermometers, nasal aspirators, and baby sunscreen

The packaging may look different from what you’re used to, so asking for help is essential. Use the phrase “para niños” (for children) when requesting anything for kids.

For Travelers with Chronic Conditions

We always recommend bringing more than enough of your regular medications, in their original packaging, with documentation or a doctor’s letter — especially for customs. While many common medications are available here, brands may differ, and some may require a local prescription.

If you need a refill, pharmacies like Cruz Verde or Locatel can sometimes help, but a Colombian doctor’s approval may be needed. For anything critical, planning ahead is essential.

For Travelers with Allergies or Sensitivities

Local pharmacists are usually happy to work around ingredient sensitivities — just be clear and direct. Use the word “alérgico/a a…” followed by what you can’t take (e.g. penicilina, lactosa, gluten).Reading labels helps, but when in doubt, ask to see the box or ingredients list before buying.

Beauty, Wellness & More: What Else Pharmacies Offer

Colombian pharmacies aren’t just for medicine. You can often find some of your favorite beauty and wellness products while browsing the personal care aisles.

Here’s what you can expect:

• High-SPF sunscreens – Key at Bogotá’s 2,600-meter elevation
  
• Mosquito repellent – Essential if heading to warmer or tropical regions
  
• Aromatherapy oils and natural wellness kits – Great for altitude adjustment
  
• Luxury skincare brands – Like Vichy, Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, LAFEMME
  
• Shampoos, cosmetics, and self-care products – Especially at Locatel and Farmatodo
  

Prices for imported brands can be higher than back home, but local brands are often excellent — and tailored to Bogotá’s climate.

When It’s Time to See a Doctor Instead

If symptoms persist beyond a few days, or involve fever, vomiting, or unexplained pain, it’s time to go beyond the pharmacy.Some Cruz Verde locations have in-house medical consultation rooms (consultorios médicos) where you can speak to a doctor on short notice — usually same-day, for a small fee.

For more serious needs, we recommend:

• Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá – Renowned private hospital with services for international visitors
  
• Clínica del Country – Well-equipped and English-friendly, located near Zona G and Zona T
  

Most private hospitals can provide documentation for insurance claims if needed.

Have a Safe, Healthy Trip in Bogotá with Help from Cielo Travel

Bogotá is a vibrant, welcoming, and modern city — and part of traveling well here is knowing how to handle everyday health needs. Cielo Travel is here to help you have your best trip yet with expert advice on even the smallest detail.A little preparation goes a long way toward peace of mind, and with the right tools, you can explore Bogotá with total confidence.