In several cities in Colombia, Traffic gets heavy during rush hour. and getting around by car can be quite a challenge.. Therefore, riding a bicycle becomes a healthy and perfect option for those looking for alternative forms of transportation.. In fact, there is a place in the country where the majority prefers to pedal instead of using the car, taking advantage of its benefits and avoiding congestion.
In Colombia, especially in Bogotá, traffic can become a real headache. According to the TomTom congestion indexthe capital ranks third in Latin America in terms of traffic congestion, with an 88% congestion index.
This means that Bogota residents lose between 152 and 191 hours a year stuck in traffic, affecting not only your time, but also your quality of life and daily productivity.
Faced with this situation, many people have opted for more agile and sustainable alternatives, such as cycling. Bogotá has one of the most extensive bicycle route networks in Latin America, with more than 600 km of exclusive bicycle lanes.
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Bicycles – Bogotá
Source: Canva
This infrastructure allows cyclists to travel more quickly, economically and safely, avoiding the traffic jams that characterize rush hours and contributing to caring for the environment.
Besides, The city has implemented initiatives such as the Ciclovía, which takes place every Sunday and holidays. In it, important roads are closed to vehicular traffic to promote the use of bicycles, skating and walking.
As The Guardian mentions, this activity not only encourages physical activity, but also raises awareness about the benefits of reducing car use.
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What programs are in force in Bogotá to encourage the use of bicycles?
Colombia has implemented various initiatives to promote the use of bicycles as a sustainable and healthy means of transportation. They have been highlighted throughout the world for being a very efficient public policy.
National Program to Promote the Use of Bicycles (PFUB)
This program, established by the Decree 0402 of 2025, seeks to transform urban and rural mobility in Colombia. Its objective is to increase the number of bicycle trips, mitigate the environmental impact of automobile traffic and improve urban mobility.
Bicycle Sharing System in Bogotá
Bogotá has a public bicycle sharing system that includes more than 300 stations and more than 3,300 bicycles distributed in six locations. This system allows citizens and visitors to move around the city in a sustainable way. There are monthly and annual plans that offer up to 4 daily trips of one hour each.
Bicycles
Source: Canva
Bike School in Bogotá
The Bike School, operated by the District Institute for Recreation and Sports (IDRD), offers Free courses to teach people how to ride a bike. These courses are designed for all ages and skill levels, promoting physical activity and recreation in the city.
Work Incentives for Bicycle Use
Law 1811 of 2016 establishes incentives for public employees who use bicycles as a means of transportation. Benefits include a paid half-day off for those who certify having arrived to work by bicycle 30 times. In addition, those who use bicycles to access the public transportation system can obtain a paid ticket after 30 validations at bicycle parking lots or meeting points.
