Teleferico y Funicular (Cable Car and Funicular), Bogota

The Monserrate Cable Car (Teleferico de Monserrate) and Funicular are two of Bogotá’s most iconic transport systems, providing access to the Monserrate Hill (Cerro de Monserrate), home to the Basilica of the Lord of Monserrate. Both modes of transport offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city while catering to thousands of visitors, from pilgrims to tourists seeking a scenic ascent.

Designed by the Swiss company Von Roll, the cable car system was inaugurated on September 27, 1955, to accommodate the increasing number of visitors making their way to the hilltop sanctuary. Covering an 880-meter distance and 460 meters in elevation, it carries passengers from Bogota (2,692 meters above sea level) up to Monserrate (3,152 meters) in around 4 minutes. The system operates on a bi-cable mode, with two cabins, each with a 40-passenger capacity.

The cable car's color scheme has changed over the years, from white to yellow, then red and green, and now orange, reflecting the sunset views from Monserrate. Despite a minor incident in 2018, the system remains one of the safest in the region, with modernized monitoring and security systems. The cables are replaced every 35 to 70 years to ensure continued safety.

Predating the cable car, the funicular has been in service since 1929, making it the older and faster of the two options, completing the ascent in just 4 minutes. It passes through two bridges and a tunnel before reaching the summit. While the funicular lacks the panoramic visibility of the cable car, it remains a popular choice for visitors looking for a quick and efficient ride.

Both the cable car and funicular offer distinct experiences—the cable car highlights Bogotá’s skyline, while the funicular provides a more enclosed yet swift journey. Whether for religious devotion, historical appreciation, or simply spectacular views, the ascent to Monserrate Hill remains a must-do in Bogota.