Breaking Borders: Bogota Gansters Story
Recommended by 100% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Bogotá, Colombia
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Explore our promoted experiences
Overview
Discover a side of Bogota that few travelers experience on this private tour through the neighborhood of Egipto, just steps from Plaza de Bolívar and El Chorro de Quevedo. Led by former gang members who now work to uplift their community, the tour offers a powerful look at the area's transformation from violence to resilience. Walk the streets where local history unfolds in murals, learn about complex social dynamics, and sample chicha, a traditional Colombian beverage. This experience provides exclusive access to a hidden part of the city and directly supports a grassroots community initiative at the same time.
- Step off the tourist’s path with a visit to Bogota’s Egipto neighborhood
- Learn about crime in vulnerable areas from a former gang leader
- Local guide shares inspiring personal story
- Private transport with hotel pick-up and drop-off (if option selected)
What's Included
- Private transportation to and from your hotel (with transportation option)
- Local snack and traditional "chicha" drink
- Bilingual expert guide (English, Spanish)
- Personal guide from the Egipto neighborhood
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Lunch
- Optional tips and gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Itinerary
1
Caminata Por El Chorro De Quevedo
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
2
Egipto
2 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- We recommend taking cash for personal expenses
- We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes.
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.0
based on 64 reviews
Shigetsu_S, May 2026
Totally recommend this tour!!! Andrea was highly knowledgeable, entertaining, and professional. Andres the driver was also professional. The breaking borders team and the workshop team were all very hospitable and their stories were very eye opening. If you want something different for sure this is the tour.
Kirsten_H, Mar 2026
Gigio (tour guide) did an excellent job giving us an overview of the divide between the Egipto area and the rest of Bogota. He did a fantastic job translating what our amazing local guides, Harold, Pato and Monkey were relating about their former life of crime and drugs. Gigio did this in a very respectful way. Pato, Harold and Monkey shared their personal stories, were very open to any and all questions and are deeply committed to changing their community into a safe and peaceful one. Breaking Borders provides a whole different look at what is happening in Bogota and how much change still needs to occur.
Ann_M, Nov 2025
We did the breaking borders tour with Andrea , Harold and Monkey . We saw Barrio Egipto through their eyes . This is a community which has experienced huge violence and drug issues resulting in huge loss and trauma . However through the breaking borders project this resilient community are trying to turn things around and give the next generation a different life with more options Thank you for sharing your stories so honestly with us and explaining your community history through the graffiti . We will never forget this tour and encourage people to see a less touristic side of Columbia which is overcoming its past and witness change by supporting this project . William & Ann
Etienne_S, Jul 2025
Our Highlight in Bogotá!
The Breaking Borders tour is not your typical sightseeing activity – it’s a raw and honest insight into the history, struggles, and transformation of the Egipto neighbourhood. The tour is led by former gang members who now work to change the image of their community and create opportunities for the next generation.
We were lucky to have a private tour, accompanied by our amazing guide Gigio, who translated for us and gave helpful context throughout. He introduced us to three former gang members, who shared deeply personal stories – how they joined, what they experienced, and why they decided to leave that life behind.
Their honesty, strength and hope for a better future were incredibly inspiring. We also explored the neighbourhood, learned about the meaning behind its many murals and graffiti, and ended the tour with a freestyle rap just for us (we’re still trying to translate it 😅).
This tour breaks down stereotypes and supports real change. If you’re in Bogotá – don’t miss it. A huge thank you to Gigio and the whole team. 💛
Response from Host, Jul 2025
We're truly moved by your experience and so glad that Breaking Borders resonated with you on such a deep level. The honesty and courage of the community, paired with Gigio’s guidance, make this a tour that’s all about connection, learning, and real impact.
We love that you’re still thinking about that freestyle rap 😅—and we hope it stays with you as a reminder of the power of transformation. Thanks again for exploring with an open heart.
—Impulse Travel Team 💛
Connie_H, Nov 2024
We were honored to be welcomed to Barrio Egipto by Harold, a former gang member who explained the history of injustice and violence in his neighborhood and the work Breaking Borders is doing to bring peace, resilience and transformation to its residents. His explanations of the meaning and symbolism behind the amazing street art was really helpful, and we appreciated being able to take a quick look at the weaving workshop Buena Semilla. We also enjoyed great conversation and insights from our guide Daniel, who accompanied us throughout the tour.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Thank you, Connie, for sharing your experience with us! We’re so pleased to hear that your time in Barrio Egipto was impactful and meaningful. Our goal with the Breaking Borders tour is to offer an authentic look into the resilience and transformation within the community, and it’s wonderful to know that Harold’s story and the insights from Daniel enriched your experience. We believe in the power of connecting people through stories, art, and culture, and we’re grateful to have had the opportunity to share that with you. Thank you for being part of this journey of hope and change.
Warm regards,
Impulse Travel Team
Pamela_M, Sep 2024
Excellent overview of the social and economic challenges of the Barrio Egipto, from three who have tried to change the narrative of gang violence and control. They have had some success, but need more support. The tour offers the opportunity to learn and support the change.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Pamela, it seems like the "Breaking Borders" tour gave you a meaningful look into the real challenges of Barrio Egipto. It’s incredible to hear that the guides, who are directly involved in changing the narrative, shared their personal experiences and successes with you. This kind of tour seems like an important way to learn more about the realities of local communities and contribute to their positive efforts. Thank you for supporting such a powerful initiative!
- Impulse Travel Team
lynn_b, Apr 2024
Our first tour in Columbia which gave us an insight into how many poor Columbian’s have little or no education & end up in gangs.The ex gang members who guided us are ready embracing the responsibility & the chance of turning their lives around with the help of Breaking Borders Charity.We also loved the ladies at the weaving workshop where we bought a beautiful hand loomed rug at a very reasonable price.It made us feel good that the money would go to them personally & help them manage their finances.This part was a bit rushed so think the tour should be 3 hours instead of 2,as we would have liked to spend more time talking to them.Perhaps the starting point would be better outside the church as we came by taxi & it would have saved us the steep climb up from the square.We would not have met these people generally so it was good to see how they survive when across the big main road there is an affluent life going on.I hope that 1 day they will cross that road ..Inspirational tour.
Response from Host, Apr 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're thrilled you found our Breaking Borders tour inspiring. Your feedback about the duration and starting point is valuable and will help us improve. We're glad you had the chance to connect with the community and support their journey.
- Impulse Travel Team
Jeffrey_E, Jan 2024
Mr. Pumpkin, the former gang leader turned tour guide, provided extremely interesting information about his life in the gang and in the barrio. He was very animated, upbeat, and well-informed. Moreover, his story and that of the community’s positive transformation were inspirational. Our English tour guide Raul was also great. Super-good tour!!
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey! We're thrilled you enjoyed Breaking Borders. Raul and the entire team are committed to creating memorable experiences. Your positive feedback fuels our passion for impactful travel. Looking forward to more adventures with you at Impulse Travel!
-Impulse Travel Team
Erin_B, Oct 2023
Cannot recommend this tour enough. Gildardo Arango was so knowledgeable about history and effortlessly weaved his knowledge with our interests into a tour that left us emotionally committed to Breaking Borders. We left rooting and respecting these beautiful humans who are doing the tough work to break a cycle of violence and gangs. Thank you GIGO for being the best guide and to Monkey and Harold who risked letting complete strangers into their lives through their honest stories and sharing of their community. We leave Columbia with you in our hearts and fond memories of this country!
Response from Host, Oct 2023
We are thrilled to hear about your incredible experience with Gildardo and the Breaking Borders tour. It's heartwarming to know you connected deeply with the community. We'll be sure to pass on your gratitude to Gigio, Monkey, and Harold. Your kind words truly inspire us.
- Impulse Travel Team
Else_S, Oct 2023
The visit in egypto was very interesting tour, very nice guides, learned a lot, we got a lot of general bogota tips on top also!
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hi Else,
Thanks for sharing your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear you found our Breaking Borders - Bogota's Social Change Experience interesting. Our guides aim to provide both knowledge and local insights. We hope you enjoyed your time in Bogota, and if you ever plan to explore more, we're here to help with more tips and adventures!
Warm regards,
Impulse Travel Team
Cheryl_C, Sep 2023
This visit to Egipto was a highlight of my 14 day stay. This is a true story of revival. They, the members of this gang, in this neighborhood, have come so far and have so many opportunities and it all came from them. Stay strong and best wishes.
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Thank you for your inspiring words! We're thrilled that our Breaking Borders experience in Bogota made such a positive impact on your journey. Your support means a lot to us. Stay inspired, and we hope to welcome you again soon. 🌟
Luisa_S, Aug 2023
Very authentic tour in the Barrio Egipto, a former problematic district on the hills of Bogotá where drug- and weapon business was the daily struggle. A perfect example how a whole district can change completely when the right people are meeting the right measures. Felt super safe during the whole tour and the guides provided lots of important information and answered all questions.
Response from Host, Aug 2023
We're thrilled you enjoyed the Breaking Borders - Bogota's Social Change Experience! Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Thanks for choosing Impulse Travel.
Best regards
Sarah_M, Aug 2023
Wonderful guides, great tour, unique experience for kids and adults. We learned a lot, saw a part of Bogota that otherwise would have been accessible, and highly recommend. It’s also an opportunity to concretely support former gang members.
Response from Host, Aug 2023
Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We're thrilled to hear that you and your family had a wonderful experience on the Breaking Borders - Bogota's Social Change Experience tour. It's fantastic to know that the tour offered both education and a unique perspective on Bogota. Your support for our initiative to empower former gang members is greatly appreciated.
Looking forward to welcoming you back on another memorable journey with Impulse Travel.
Tsvetelina_I, Mar 2023
Must do experience in Bogota and in Columbia. The stories of the ex-gangs are touching and you see a real Columbia. Doing such initiative without government’s support is impressive!
Sumi_M, Apr 2018
This tour was amazing. It was great to see the transformation happening in the neighbourhood. I did pay quite a bit extra because I was doing it solo but I learned a lot so it was ok. The guide and driver were great and I felt a bit bad that I could not tip them more because I gave a bigger tip to the former gang members instead. They were excited to tell their stories and I was interested in knowing how they feel now. One of them told me that he felt RELAXED now. Drinking, drugs and violence on Friday nights has now turned into Family movie night where they play movies for the whole neighbourhood. Good to meet the young kids who are part of this organization too. The one I met wants to go to school and become an English tour guide. Great tour...price was not properly reflected. They should fix the price to a per person..I paid over 200 Canadian dollars for a tour that said 55 and up. You will want to tip so bring extra cash. Good tour, you quickly realize how lucky you are once you see where they live. Do it and support the group.
From $91.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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