Lo que hay que saber sobre el agua potable en Bogotá

You’re planning a trip to Bogotá, and somewhere between booking your hotel and packing your suitcase, you’ve asked yourself an important question: “Can I drink the water there?” It’s a fair question — and one we hear often.

We live here, we drink the water every day, and we’re going to give you a clear, honest, and practical guide so you can feel confident and stay healthy while visiting. 

Bogotá Has One of the Most Advanced Water Systems in Latin America

Let’s start with some good news: Bogotá has one of the most reliable water systems in the region.

The city’s water is managed by the Empresa de Acueducto y Alcantarillado de Bogotá (EAAB) — a publicly owned utility that oversees water sourcing, treatment, and distribution. It’s closely regulated, and its operations meet the World Health Organization’s safety standards for potable water.

Water in Bogotá comes primarily from the Chingaza and Sumapaz páramos — high-altitude wetlands in the Andes known for naturally clean water. From there, the water goes through modern filtration and chlorination processes before reaching homes, hotels, restaurants, and offices.

According to both EAAB and Colombia’s Ministry of Health, the tap water in Bogotá is safe to drink in nearly all urban and developed parts of the city.

Local Insight: We drink the water daily. So do our neighbors, coworkers, and kids. If you’re staying in an established part of the city, the water is not just “drinkable” — it’s fresh, cold, and typically tastes clean.

Where You Can Drink Tap Water Without Worrying

If you’re staying in a modern hotel or an upscale neighborhood in Bogotá, you can confidently drink from the tap.

Areas like Zona G, Parque de la 93, Andino, Chicó, La Cabrera, and Usaquén are well-developed, with excellent infrastructure and newer buildings. Most hotels here — whether boutique or five-star — use internal water filtration systems and often provide complimentary filtered water.

Even in La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historic district, many renovated or newer hotels have upgraded plumbing and water systems that make tap water safe for drinking and brushing teeth.

High-end restaurants, cafes, and offices across these areas also serve beverages made with tap or filtered water. If you’re dining in a reputable establishment, you’re in good hands.

Consejo: Ask your concierge or Airbnb host if they provide filtered water or have a water purification system in the property. Most do — and they’ll be glad you asked.

This is one of those places where “drink the tap water” isn’t risky advice — it’s normal.

When to Be More Cautious with Tap Water

While Bogotá’s water is clean and well-treated, there are moments when it’s smart to be more cautious — especially if your stomach is sensitive or if you’re spending time outside the city center.

Here’s when to think twice:

• In rural or suburban zones just outside Bogotá (like Chía, La Calera, or parts of Cundinamarca), water treatment isn’t always as consistent. Many homes in these areas rely on well water or private filtration systems that vary in quality.
• In older buildings in Bogotá — particularly those that haven’t been renovated in years — plumbing systems may have aging pipes. Even if the water starts out clean, it can be affected by the infrastructure.
• With street food and informal vendors, water used to make juices, wash produce, or freeze ice may not be filtered. While many are safe, it’s hard to tell at a glance.
• If you have a sensitive stomach or medical conditions, even slight differences in water mineral content can cause discomfort.

Consejo: Bottled or filtered water is widely available, offering an added layer of peace of mind. Premium restaurants, cafes, and hotels often serve it automatically, especially if they cater to international guests.

A bit of caution doesn’t mean paranoia — it just means paying attention to where you are and how your body feels.

Filtered, Bottled, or Tap: What’s Best for You?

Whether you stick to tap or opt for bottled water, you’ve got great options in Bogotá. Here’s how to choose what fits best.

Tap Water

Go for it if:

• You’re staying in an upscale hotel or modern apartment.
• You don’t usually react to new water sources.
• You’re dining in reputable places.

Filtered Water

A common choice in households and hotels:

• Many locals use in-home filters.
• Filtered water is offered at gyms, co-working spaces, and hotel lobbies.
• It’s a good middle ground for cautious travelers.

Bottled Water

Safe, easy, and everywhere:

• Look for trusted brands like Manantial, Cristal, or Brisa.
• Available in supermarkets, pharmacies, and even delivered to your hotel.

Consejo: If you’re unsure during your first couple of days, use bottled water to brush your teeth and drink. Once your body adjusts, you can try tap or filtered options more comfortably.

In the end, it comes down to how your body reacts and how comfortable you feel. There’s no wrong choice — only the one that keeps your trip smooth.

What About Ice, Salads, and Coffee?

These are the details travelers often worry about — and rightly so. Here’s what you need to know.

Ice

• In hotels, bars, and restaurants that cater to locals or tourists, ice is made from filtered water and is safe.
• Avoid: Ice from informal vendors or small street stalls, where water quality is harder to verify.

Salads & Fresh Produce

Bogotá’s top restaurants wash produce in filtered or disinfected water.

• Dining in Zona G, Usaquén, or Andino? You’re safe.
• At family-owned spots or local markets, it’s okay to ask how produce is cleaned.

We eat salads and fruits out regularly, and so do our guests. If you’re in a well-reviewed or busy establishment, you can enjoy them, too.

Coffee & Tea

You’re in the heart of Colombian coffee country.

• All cafes boil water for coffee and tea — and often use filtered water anyway.
• Whether it’s a pour-over in Chapinero Alto or a traditional tinto from a neighborhood bakery, it’s safe.

Insider Tip: Coffee shops and restaurants are used to tourists asking questions about water. Don’t hesitate to ask — it’s part of traveling smart, and most staff are happy to answer.

Hydration Tips for Bogotá’s High Altitude

At 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, Bogotá is high enough to affect how your body processes hydration.

You might not feel thirsty — but that doesn’t mean you don’t need water.

What to Expect:

• Dry mountain air pulls moisture from your skin and lungs.
• Headaches, fatigue, and dizziness are common if you don’t hydrate early.
• Dehydration sneaks up faster at altitude.

How to Stay Hydrated:

• Carry a refillable bottle — many hotels offer filtered water stations.
• Sip consistently throughout the day, even when indoors.
• Avoid overdoing caffeine or alcohol in your first 48 hours.

Try local herbal infusions like aguapanela (sugarcane tea) or manzanilla (chamomile), especially in the cooler evenings. They hydrate and help your body adjust.

Consejo: On your first full day, take it easy. Hydrate, rest, and enjoy Bogotá’s café culture. Your body will thank you.

How to Handle Water Safely Without Overthinking It

You don’t need to obsess over every sip of water in Bogotá — you just need to stay informed and trust your instincts.

Here’s a simple approach:

• Drink tap water in modern hotels and restaurants you trust.
• Ask questions if you’re unsure — people are helpful, and your health matters.
• Use bottled or filtered water if you’re feeling cautious or adjusting to altitude.
• Skip the ice or salads only in places where hygiene isn’t clear.
• Hydrate frequently, especially during your first few days.

Most people have no issues with the water — and those who were cautious at first found they could relax once they arrived and got a feel for the city.

Don’t let water worries take away from your experience. Bogotá is vibrant, clean, and ready to welcome you — glass of water included.