Jose Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden in Bogota – Colombia

The Jose Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden is one of the finest of its kind in Colombia and South America. It is not just a flower garden; it also serves to protect the flowers and keep them in a safe environment.

Location and How to Get to This Specific Ste

The garden can be found in Av. Calle 63 No. 68-95, Bogota D.C., Colombia, Bogota D.C. It is accessible by public transport. The altitude is 2550.00 meters. The latitude and longitude are 4.6098 and -74.0820 respectively.

What to See There

The garden covers an area of 19 hectares. Aside from the lush greens, there are several lakes around the area, adding to the peace and tranquility. The garden is divided into several sections so it is easy to navigate.

These include the swamps, Orinoco plains, the Andean landscape, Amazonia and paramo. There are over 18,200 plant and flower species in the site.

There is also a man-made waterfall in the park. There are also laboratories where the plants and flowers can be examined. Visitors to the park can also avail of the tourist info desk and the library. The latter contains information about the garden.

History

The Jose Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden is the largest of its kind in Colombia. It was named in honor of the man assigned to classify, search and study the animals and flowers in Nueva Granada. Following its establishment, the garden would rapidly become the biggest in the country.

Today it is visited by thousands of people every year. As a scientific research center, the emphasis is plant conservation. The facility is able to produce environmental sustainability by utilizing technology. Since its foundation in 1955, it has become a vital center for scientific research.

Cost

The entrance fee is 2,000 pesos (U.S. $ 1.00) for an adult. For children it is 1,000 pesos (U.S. $0.5).

Other Info

The greenhouses are among the biggest attractions in the garden. There, visitors will be able to see different kinds of plants. These come from various parts of Colombia. Plants from every altitude, climate and region are displayed.

One of the most prominent features is the Palma de cera, the country’s national tree. The largest aquatic Amazonian flower is also exhibited.

The Jose Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden is open from Mondays to Fridays. Opening time is at 8 am up to 5 pm. On Saturdays and Sundays it is open from 9 am to 5 pm.