Bogotá Cooking Workshops: Where to Learn to Prepare Ajiaco and Tamal in Bogotá

Bogotá Cuisine: A Heritage Learned by Hand

In Bogotá, cuisine is not just a necessity; it's a conversation. One that is passed down through generations, between stoves, between the hands that knead the corn for tamales and those that stir the pot of ajiaco. This city, often cold and gray, is warmed by the aromas of guasca, criolla potatoes, and chicken that melts into the thick broth. Learning to prepare these dishes is not just a tourist activity; it's a way to touch the history of a city built around its cooking pots.

Bogotá cooking workshops have flourished in recent years, responding to a thirst not only from travelers seeking more than just a photo, but also from Bogotanos themselves looking to reconnect with childhood flavors, and from expatriates longing for a taste of home. These are spaces where the chef becomes a grandparent, where recipes are told like stories, and where, in the end, everyone sits down to eat what their own hands have prepared.

Schools and Chefs Opening Their Kitchens

1. Sabores de la Sabana - "Authentic Ajiaco Santafereño" Workshop
Located in the heart of La Candelaria, this 4-hour workshop is led by Chef María Fernanda, a third-generation Bogotana. She not only teaches the steps but also the history of each ingredient. The cost is $120,000 COP per person and includes all ingredients, a physical recipe book, a full tasting of the prepared ajiaco, and a typical drink (canelazo or chocolate). They offer vegetarian options (replacing chicken with portobello mushrooms) and adaptations for common allergies. English availability requires prior reservation. Contact: +57 321 555 0123 | Reservations: www.saboresdelasabana.com/taller-ajiaco

2. La Cocina de Abuela - Integral Bogotano Tamal Workshop
In Chapinero Alto, this workshop feels like stepping into a grandmother's kitchen. Over 5 hours, you'll learn everything from the corn preparation process to the final assembly in plantain leaves. The workshop costs $150,000 COP and includes all materials, a bag of dry ingredients to practice at home, the tamal you prepare to take with you, and a full lunch. It's especially popular among expatriates. They don't have a standard vegetarian option, but can adapt if notified 48 hours in advance. English classes are offered on Saturdays. Contact: info@lacocinadeabuela.co | Instagram: @lacocinadeabuela

3. Bogotá Food Lab - "Bogotá Duo: Ajiaco & Tamal" Workshop
A more modern option near Parque de la 93. This intensive 6-hour workshop covers both iconic dishes. It's ideal for foodies seeking a complete experience. The price is $200,000 COP and includes a bilingual chef instructor (Spanish/English), all premium ingredients, a gift utensil kit, tasting, and a certificate of participation. They offer vegetarian and gluten-free menus by default. Availability is ample, with workshops almost daily. Direct reservations: www.bogotafoodlab.com/duo-bogotano | Tel: 601 555 9876

4. Pop-up Workshop "Cook with Locals" in Usaquén
Not a fixed school, but a rotating experience in different homes in the traditional Usaquén neighborhood. Organized by a cooperative of cooks, the 3.5-hour workshop costs $90,000 COP. It's the most economical and authentic option, as you cook in a real Bogotá kitchen. It includes ingredients, the meal, and a talk about traditions. Dates and English availability (limited) must be consulted. Vegetarian options available. To book and check the calendar: www.cocinaconlocalesbog.com or WhatsApp: +57 300 654 3210

Other Cooking Workshop Options in Bogotá

If you're looking for more variety, Bogotá offers other culinary experiences worth considering:

• Colombian Cooking Class & Market Tour: One of the most popular, lasting 4 hours starting from 90 US$. Includes learning local cooking techniques and traditional recipes.
• Colombian Cooking Class with Chef & Typical Lunch: 3 hours from 320 US$.
• Private Colombian Cooking Workshop: 5 hours from 549 US$.
• Carimañola Cooking Class: 4 hours from 60 US$.
• Exclusive Chocolate Class: 1 hour 30 minutes from 104 US$.
• Aguardiente and Chocolate Tasting: 1 hour 30 minutes from 37 US$.
• Bogotá: Between Coffee and Mountains: 9 hours from 112 US$.

Most of these options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

Formal Traditional Cooking Schools

For those seeking more structured training, Bogotá has renowned schools:

• Colombian Cuisine Deepening Program: Specialized course in traditional Colombian techniques and dishes.
• New Fusion Colombian Ethnic Cuisine: Offered by Universidad ECCI, with an emphasis on fused ethnic and traditional Colombian cuisine.
• Guillermo Torres Cooking School: Includes courses like "Cooking for Amateurs," focusing on traditional Colombian cuisine.
• Fundación Escuela Taller: Training program in traditional cuisine, ideal for beginners with a practical focus on local gastronomy.

Gastronomic Events You Can't Miss

Bogotá thrives on festivals and events that celebrate its traditional cuisine:

• Tamal Festival: Held in December in 16 district market squares, featuring tastings of regional tamales like Tolimense and Santandereano.
• Sabor Bogotá 2026: Registration open until April 17th to present recipes in the "Traditional Cuisine - Ajiaco Santafereño" category.
• Encuentro Campesino: A fair of popular economies in February, where you can find Tolimense tamales among other artisanal products.
• Bogotá International Festival of Live Arts (FIAV): From March 27th to April 5th, includes cultural and gastronomic experiences.

The Voices of Those Who Have Already Tried It

"I came to Bogotá for work, and the workshop was my way of breaking the ice with the city. Not only did I learn to make an ajiaco that impressed my Colombian colleagues, but I also met incredible people. Chef María Fernanda makes you feel like family." - Thomas, Canadian expatriate.

"I'm from Bogotá, but no one had ever taught me the secrets of tamal like Doña Carmen did at 'La Cocina de Abuela'. Now I prepare it every December for my family. It's a piece of our tradition that I can now pass on." - Camila, local participant.

How to Book and Prepare for the Experience

Most workshops require booking at least 48-72 hours in advance, especially for groups or classes in English. Payments are usually made online. Arrive in comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and with a great desire to learn (and to taste). No prior culinary experience is necessary. Some workshops send the ingredient list in advance if you want to follow the recipe step-by-step.

In the end, you'll take home more than just a recipe. You'll carry the pride of having created, with your own hands, a piece of Bogotá's identity. A flavor that, we hope, you'll share with the world using #CocinaBogotana.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bogotá Cooking Workshops

• Do I need prior cooking experience? No, most workshops are designed for beginners, and chefs adapt their teaching to your level.
• Are there vegetarian or allergy-friendly options? Yes, almost all workshops offer adaptations if notified in advance.
• Are classes offered in English? Yes, several workshops have bilingual instructors or offer English classes on specific days.
• What should I bring? Just comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. All ingredients and utensils are provided by the workshop.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Most workshops allow free cancellation 24-48 hours in advance.
• Is it safe for children? Some workshops accept children accompanied by adults, but check with each school.

Ready to get your hands dirty? Book a workshop and discover that the true flavor of Bogotá is not just eaten, it's made.

What it is and context

Bogotá's gastronomy is a feast for the senses, where dishes like ajiaco and tamal are not just food, but a cultural experience steeped in history and tradition. These dishes, which have been part of Bogotanos' diet for generations, reflect the mix of indigenous and Spanish influences that characterize the city. Did you know that ajiaco, besides being a comforting soup, is attributed with healing properties for the common cold? So it's not only delicious but also a homemade remedy!

La Candelaria - Traditional Cooking Workshop

Located in the heart of the historic center, this venue offers an intimate workshop where you'll learn to cook ajiaco and tamal with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy, and you'll feel right at home. Insider Tip: Come hungry, because at the end of the workshop, you can enjoy what you've cooked accompanied by a delicious hot chocolate. Address: Calle 10 # 2-67. Price range: $80,000 - $120,000.

Parque de la 93 - Modern Cooking Workshop

This workshop stands out for blending traditional cuisine with contemporary techniques. Here, you'll learn to prepare ajiaco, but you'll also get to experiment with innovative ingredients. Insider Tip: Book in advance, as weekends tend to be busy. Don't forget to ask about vegetarian options. Address: Carrera 11 # 93-50. Price range: $100,000 - $150,000.

Casa de la Cultura - Interactive Workshop

A vibrant space where you not only cook but also learn about the history behind each dish. This workshop is perfect for groups and families. Insider Tip: Bring a notebook, because the chef shares cooking secrets you won't find in any book. Address: Calle 8 # 12-30. Price range: $70,000 - $100,000.

La Mesa de los Santos - Gastronomic Workshop

This workshop specializes in Santafereña cuisine, where ajiaco and tamal are just the beginning. They offer a complete cooking experience, from shopping for ingredients at a local market to the final tasting. Insider Tip: Ask about the option to pair your dish with a local craft beer. Address: Avenida Suba # 45-12. Price range: $90,000 - $130,000.

Event Details (lineup, program, dates)

• La Candelaria

  In the heart of Bogotá, here you can learn to prepare ajiaco and tamal in workshops that promise to be unforgettable. With local chefs sharing their secrets, it's the ideal place to immerse yourself in tradition. Insider Tip: Don't forget to ask about the history of ajiaco; there's a fascinating story about its origin!

Address: Calle 11 # 2-41. Price range: $100,000 - $150,000 COP.

Address: Parque de la 93. Price range: $120,000 - $180,000 COP.

Address: Calle 119 # 6-31. Price range: $90,000 - $130,000 COP.

Address: Parque Simón Bolívar, Av. 68. Price range: $80,000 - $120,000 COP.

Prices and How to Get Tickets

If you're ready to cook like a true Bogotano, here are the details you need to secure your spot in these workshops. Prices vary depending on the workshop and experience, but generally range from $80,000 to $200,000 per person. Some workshops include ingredients and materials, so be sure to ask before booking.

La Candelaria Cocina

Located in the heart of La Candelaria, this venue offers workshops where participants not only learn to make ajiaco and tamal but also delve into the history behind each dish. Insider Tip: If you're lucky enough to find it available, don't miss the option of a night workshop, where the atmosphere becomes even more special. Address: Calle 12c # 3-20. Price range: $120,000 - $180,000.

Parque de la 93

With a modern approach, this venue offers interactive workshops that combine tradition and contemporary techniques. Here, you can learn to make tamales with a gourmet touch and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. Insider Tip: Ask about the pairing sessions, where you can combine your creations with typical drinks. Address: Carrera 13 # 93-40. Price range: $100,000 - $150,000.

Casa de la Cultura de Chapinero

A community space that promotes local cuisine through accessible workshops. Here, you'll not only learn to make ajiaco but also meet other gastronomy enthusiasts. Insider Tip: Classes usually fill up quickly, so book in advance to secure your spot. Address: Calle 63 # 7-16. Price range: $80,000 - $120,000.

Academia de Cocina de Bogotá

With a professional focus, this academy offers workshops where participants can learn from basic to advanced techniques in Bogotá cuisine. Insider Tip: Ask about intensive courses that will allow you to delve deeper into Colombian cuisine. Address: Avenida El Dorado # 66-20. Price range: $150,000 - $200,000.

How to Get There

La Candelaria

This iconic neighborhood is the heart of Bogotá and a perfect place to start your culinary adventure. Here, you'll find various cooking workshops that will teach you to prepare ajiaco and tamal in a historic setting. Remember that La Candelaria can be a bit confusing with its cobblestone streets, so bring a map or use your GPS!

Parque de la 93

A modern and vibrant area, ideal for contemporary cooking workshops. Here, you can learn traditional recipes with an innovative twist. Don't forget to enjoy a coffee on the terraces after your class! It's a great place to relax and socialize.

Casa de la Cultura La Candelaria

Located at Carrera 3 # 11-65, this house offers interactive workshops on Bogotá cuisine. Besides ajiaco and tamal, you might learn to make arepas and other typical dishes. Insider Tip: They often have group discounts, so go with friends and save a little.

La Mesa de los Abuelos

This community kitchen in the Usaquén neighborhood is perfect for learning to prepare traditional dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere. Classes are taught by grandmothers who share their secrets and recipes from generation to generation. Insider Tip: Be sure to try the pinto before you leave, it's out of this world! Address: Carrera 7 # 120-45. Price range: $60,000 - $90,000.

El Jardín de los Abuelos

In the heart of Chapinero, this place combines cooking with sustainability. Here, you can learn to make ajiaco with organic, seasonal ingredients. The classes are dynamic and usually end with a tasting in the beautiful garden. Insider Tip: Book in advance, as spots are limited and fill up quickly. Address: Calle 58 # 7-60. Price range: $70,000 - $100,000.

Tips for Attendees

• La Candelaria

  The historic heart of Bogotá is the ideal place for authentic workshops. Here, you can find options ranging from private classes to small groups. Insider Tip: Don't forget to ask about the story behind ajiaco; many chefs share family anecdotes that will give the recipe another flavor.

• Parque de la 93

  This modern area offers cooking workshops that blend tradition and contemporary techniques. It's perfect if you're looking for a more relaxed and chic atmosphere. Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes before your class; there are some that serve a unique single-origin coffee worth trying.

• Casa de la Cultura La Candelaria

  This cultural space not only offers cooking classes but also art and music workshops. The mix of activities makes it unique. Insider Tip: Be sure to sign up for cooking sessions during the weekends, as they often have special guests who cook with fresh ingredients from the local market. Address: Calle 10 # 2-51. Prices: $50,000 - $80,000.

• El Jardín de las Delicias

  A cooking workshop that focuses on Bogotá cuisine and sustainability. Their classes are a culinary journey focused on local and fresh ingredients. Insider Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take your own creations home; here, every dish has a special touch you'll want to share. Address: Carrera 7 # 63-38. Prices: $60,000 - $100,000.