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Bogotá is vibrant, colorful, and full of life. Between its colonial streets, mountain views, and buzzing food scene, the Colombian capital is an unforgettable place to explore. But if your adventure comes with a surprise fever, stomach bug, or injury, getting sick far from home can feel overwhelming.
Don’t worry — Bogotá has reliable healthcare, English-speaking doctors, and pharmacies ready to help. This guide walks you through everything you need to know if you’re sick in Bogotá, so you can focus on getting better and back to enjoying your trip.
Understanding Bogotá’s Healthcare System
Colombia’s healthcare system is well-developed, and Bogotá, as the capital city, has excellent facilities.
Private vs. Public
- Public hospitals: Affordable and high-quality, but can be crowded and often have long waits. Staff may speak limited English.
- Private clinics and hospitals: Best option for travelers. These offer faster service, English-speaking staff, and tourist-friendly procedures. You’ll typically pay upfront but can claim it back through travel insurance.
Emergency Medical Care
In case of a serious emergency, knowing the right numbers and steps is key.
Essential Emergency Numbers
- 123 – General emergency number (ambulance, police, fire)
- 125 – Fire department direct line
- 132 – Red Cross emergency line
How to Call an Ambulance in Bogotá
- Dial 123
- Speak clearly and provide your exact location
- Ask if they speak English: “¿Habla inglés?”
- If possible, have a local or your hotel staff assist with the call
Tip: For minor emergencies, it’s often faster to take a taxi or rideshare to a private hospital than wait for an ambulance.
When to Go to a Hospital vs. an Urgent Care Clinic
- Hospital: Serious injuries, chest pain, severe allergic reactions, or breathing problems.
- Private clinic or urgent care: Fevers, stomach bugs, minor infections, rashes, or sprains.
Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know
Pharmacies in Bogotá are called “Farmacia” or “Droguería”, and you’ll find them all over the city.
- Over-the-counter medication is available for fevers, colds, stomach issues, and allergies.
- Stronger medication requires a doctor’s note.
- Many pharmacies in tourist areas have staff who speak some English.
Where to Find 24/7 Pharmacies
- Large chains like Cruz Verde or Farmatodo often have extended hours.
- Google Maps or your hotel can point you to the nearest 24-hour location.
What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can save you stress and money. Bogotá’s private clinics will usually require payment upfront, but your insurance should reimburse you.
Documents You’ll Need to Submit a Claim
- Doctor’s note or medical report
- Receipts for visits and medication
- Travel insurance policy number
- Proof of travel (flight or booking confirmations)
Tip: Take photos of all paperwork so you have a digital copy.
Language Barriers
English is not widely spoken outside of private clinics, so learning a few basic Spanish phrases helps:
- “Me siento mal.” – I feel sick
- “Tengo fiebre.” – I have a fever
- “Necesito un médico.” – I need a doctor
- “Soy alérgico/a a…” – I’m allergic to…
Or simply book an English-speaking doctor via Air Doctor and skip the confusion.
How to Avoid Getting Sick in Bogotá
Here’s what you need to know to avoid getting sick in Bogotá.
Common Illnesses for Travelers
- Stomach upsets from street food or new ingredients
- Altitude sickness (Bogotá is 2,640 meters / 8,660 ft above sea level)
- Dehydration and fatigue due to the altitude
Is Tap Water Safe?
Tap water in Bogotá is technically treated and safe, but many travelers prefer bottled water to avoid stomach sensitivity.
Food & Hygiene Tips
- Eat at busy restaurants and food stalls with high turnover
- Avoid raw or undercooked meats and unwashed produce
- Wash or sanitize hands frequently, especially before eating
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Conditions
If you’re pregnant or managing chronic health conditions:
- Bring enough medication for your trip in original packaging
- Carry a simple medical summary in English (and Spanish if possible)
- Private hospitals like Clínica del Country and Fundación Santa Fe are reliable for specialist care
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Bogotá
When you’re not feeling well, navigating a new city for healthcare is stressful.
With Air Doctor, you can:
- Find trusted English-speaking doctors
- Book same-day or virtual appointments
- Choose clinic visits, hotel visits, or online consultations
- Get clear receipts for travel insurance claims
Getting Help Beyond Healthcare
If you face serious issues like hospitalization or lost medication, your embassy or consulate can:=
- Assist with document replacement
- Contact family or your insurer
- Help arrange emergency transportation if needed
- Save your embassy’s number before exploring Bogotá.
Recap: Sick in Bogotá? Here’s Your Plan
- Call 123 in an emergency
- Use private clinics for fast, English-friendly care
- Visit a farmacia for basic medication or a doctor’s note
- Keep receipts for insurance
- Drink bottled water, pace yourself at high altitude, and eat smart
About Air Doctor
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including gynecologists, pediatricians, and GPs.
FAQs
Yes, private clinics and hospitals welcome tourists, and many have English-speaking staff.
Expect to pay around $40–$100 USD, depending on the clinic and type of consultation.
Yes, many private clinics allow walk-ins or same-day appointments, but booking ahead is recommended for faster service.
