Hotel Review: Grand Hyatt Bogota
The Grand Hyatt brand is synonymous with reliable, upscale hospitality and luxury, much like Marriott Bonvoy’s JW Marriott or Hilton’s Conrad brand. My first encounter with Grand Hyatt was at their Seoul property in South Korea. While the communal areas were undeniably luxurious, my standard room left something to be desired with its limited space and basic amenities. However, during a recent visit to Bogota, I decided to give Grand Hyatt another chance, and I'm glad I did. My stay at the Grand Hyatt Bogota was marked by exceptional hospitality and comfort, reaffirming my faith in the brand's commitment to luxury. Here is my review of the Grand Hyatt Bogota:
The Grand Hyatt Bogota is located at Cl. 24a #57 – 60, Bogotá, Colombia.
Location
Situated in the upscale Teusaquillo neighborhood, the Grand Hyatt Bogota occupies an affluent area of the city. While it may not be the most centrally located for sightseeing, those interested in exploring major tourist attractions in the La Candelaria neighborhood, such as Plaza de Bolívar, the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), and the Botero Museum (Museo Botero), can reach their destination in approximately 20 minutes by taxi. Additionally, El Dorado International Airport is conveniently a 20-minute taxi ride away, making the hotel a practical choice for those arriving from the airport.
Lobby & Check-In Review
As my taxi pulled up to the Grand Hyatt Bogota, I was immediately struck by the hotel's impressive size. Stepping inside the lobby, my awe deepened at the serene, upscale ambiance that greeted me. A stunning arrangement of live orchids filled the air with a delightful fragrance, and a massive chandelier cast a warm glow over the space.
The lobby was filled with the welcoming fragrance of live orchids, creating an inviting atmosphere.
The pristine, glossy black tiles reflected the meticulous cleanliness, while the waiting area boasted tastefully decorated, comfortable couches and unique coffee tables.
The lobby was impeccably clean and featured various seating arrangements with tasteful decorations.
The elegant decor perfectly suited the Grand Hyatt brand, catering to both luxury travelers and business executives. Multiple check-in desks were staffed with attentive agents ready to assist incoming guests.
The check-in experience was pleasant, and the hotel acknowledged my Hyatt Globalist status.
I was promptly helped, and to my delight, the front desk agent informed me that, thanks to my Hyatt Globalist status, I had been upgraded to one of the corner suites. She then detailed the hotel’s amenities, including the exclusive Grand Club hours and perks, setting the tone for a luxurious stay ahead.
On the lobby level, the hotel's bar, restaurant, and café offered plenty of seating to enjoy the food and beverages.
After a brief introduction to the hotel, I went up to the 6th floor, where my suite was located.
Living Room Review
All the guest rooms at the Grand Hyatt Bogota are centered around a captivating atrium, featuring a charming garden at its heart.
An indoor mini garden added a touch of green vitality to the atrium.
My suite, located at the end of the hallway, welcomed me with an inviting living room adorned with warm wood-toned furniture and elegant gold accents. A cozy L-shaped sectional, perfect for lounging or even sleeping, and a low round coffee table created a comfortable atmosphere.
The upgraded one-bedroom suite provided a cozy living space perfect for a small family
The minimalist decor perfectly complemented the sophisticated ambiance of the hotel. Tall floor-to-ceiling windows bathed the living room in natural sunlight, enhancing the warm and welcoming vibe. A wall-mounted flatscreen TV on a wooden accent wall initially seemed bare, but after navigating the chaotic city center and returning to my suite, I found the simplicity of the accent wall incredibly soothing.
The living room’s minimal decor and use of natural materials soothingly complemented the simplistic vibe.
In one corner, a pull-out mini fridge, a Nespresso machine, and two complimentary bottles of water added a touch of convenience.
The minibar featured sustainable drinkware, reducing plastic consumption.
The dining table, doubling as a work desk, featured a tabletop-level electric outlet, making it easy to set up a workstation.
The small dining table doubled as a work table, though I wished it were slightly larger and came with more chairs.
There was a welcome amenity of fresh fruits and water on the dining table, along with handwritten cards from the hotel staff and the Grand Club, which added a personal touch that warmed my heart.
A fresh bowl of fruits was a delightful snack for the afternoon.
A spacious walk-in closet connected to the bathroom offered ample storage space for a small family, and motion-sensitive lights added to its functionality.
The suite boasted massive closet and storage space, ample enough for a small family.
The living room became a cozy haven to unwind and relax, and I grew to appreciate its simple, modest setting. It turned into a quiet sanctuary, a perfect retreat after exploring the bustling streets of Bogota.
Bedroom Review
Stepping through a thick wooden door that perfectly silenced the living room's noise, I entered a serene corner bedroom with stunning curved floor-to-ceiling windows. The carpeted floor and minimalist decor from the living room extended into this space, creating a seamless and sophisticated ambiance.
The corner bedroom boasted a minimalistic ambiance with upscale decor and amenities.
A king-sized bed with a faux leather headboard stood at the center, and while the mattress was a bit springier than my usual preference, it offered comfort when paired with the plush pillows. Each side of the bed featured a spacious floating nightstand equipped with electric outlets and master light switches.
Master light switches made my mornings and evenings seamless.
Opposite the bed, a TV mounted on a floor-fixed pole could be tilted for adjustable viewing angles. However, I missed the seamless mounting method I had seen at W Bogota, which kept the floor space free. A gold-accented lounge chair and ottoman added a touch of elegance to the room.
The bedroom featured an additional TV and curved floor-to-ceiling windows that flooded the room with sunlight.
The bedroom's standout feature was its breathtaking panoramic view of the northern Andes Mountains. The expansive, curved windows flooded the room with sunlight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Although the immediate surroundings of the hotel were less appealing—possibly a wasteland or a site under development—the sweeping view of the Andes provided a sense of openness and tranquility.
While the immediate surroundings were not particularly appealing, the backdrop of the Andes Mountains was stunning.
The bedroom was even quieter than the living room, offering a peaceful retreat isolated from any potential noise. The Grand Hyatt Bogota’s remote location contributed to this serenity, ensuring a restful night's sleep every time I retired to the room.
Bathroom Review
The bathroom was accessible from both the walk-in closet and the bedroom, and it epitomized luxury and functionality. Featuring a double sink vanity with a pristine white marble countertop, it was complemented by a large central mirror flanked by additional mirrors, making morning routines effortless.
The double sink vanity was spacious and exuded elegance.
A separate bathtub in the corner, adorned with the same elegant white marble, boasted impressive water pressure, filling up swiftly. Though it lacked a handheld showerhead for quick rinses, the wooden reading stand provided a perfect spot for enjoying entertainment while soaking in the tub.
A wooden reading stand perfectly accommodated my iPad, allowing me to enjoy a Netflix show while taking a bath.
The walk-in shower offered a true rainfall shower experience, complete with a handheld option. Brightly lit by recessed and ambient lighting, the shower booth featured a white marble bench, adding convenience and comfort.
The walk-in shower featured an opaque glass panel facing outside, adding extra illumination to the shower booth.
Premium toiletries from Loto Del Sur, a renowned Colombian brand known for its natural botanicals, elevated the experience further.
Toiletries were provided by Lots Del Sur, known for using natural botanicals as primary ingredients.
A separate water closet with motion-sensitive lights ensured ease of use at night, eliminating the need to fumble for switches. The bathroom's design, with its practical separate water closet and elegant white marble finishes, perfectly reflected the hotel’s upscale image.
The water closet was equipped with motion-sensitive lights, making nighttime visits convenient.
The bathroom space was both comfortable and functional, embodying the sophisticated ambiance of the Grand Hyatt Bogota.
Club Lounge Review—Grand Club
The Grand Club was located on the 13th floor and offered complimentary access thanks to my Hyatt Globalist status.
The Grand Club access was complimentary, thanks to my Hyatt Globalist status.
After checking in, I headed straight to the lounge for a relaxing coffee break. Visiting in the early afternoon meant it wasn't crowded, and given its spacious layout, it never seemed to reach full capacity even during peak hours.
The lounge space offered a comfortable and upscale atmosphere, featuring a variety of seating arrangements.
Gentle pop music played in the background, and floor-to-ceiling windows provided stunning, unobstructed views of the Andes Mountains.
The view from the Grand Club overlooked the nearby Teusaquillo neighborhood and was more appealing than the view from my bedroom.
The dark wood and microfiber furniture added a sophisticated touch to the ambiance. I settled at a table by the windows, and a friendly attendant promptly took my coffee order, which was prepared using a commercial Nespresso machine.
Additional tables were available by the buffet spreads, making the area lively at night as guests enjoyed food and wine.
Towards the back of the lounge, a small buffet offered cookies, fruits, and other beverages.
In the afternoon, I visited the lounge for light bites accompanied by tea or coffee.
Returning to the Grand Club for dinner later that evening was a delightful experience. The lounge buzzed with guests enjoying small dishes and wine, and the buffet offerings ranged from empanadas and sliders to salads and charcuterie.
Dinner options were more robust, allowing for a full meal if desired.
One standout dish was the white fish ceviche, with its fantastic quality fish, a hint of chili heat, and contrasting textures from the corn.
Compared to domestic Hyatt lounges, this hotel incorporated fresh ingredients into local Colombian dishes.
The chicken empanadas, paired with a sweet sauce, were also a highlight. While the charcuterie and salads didn't quite meet my expectations in terms of freshness, the inclusion of Paipa cheese, a unique cheese from the Valley of Sogamoso, was a pleasant surprise and paired wonderfully with red wine.
The salad bar was a nice touch, providing a wider range of dietary options for guests.
Speaking of beverages, I enjoyed a complimentary glass of red wine with my meal, but a variety of other alcoholic drinks were also available.
The Grand Club was a delightful space to enjoy complimentary Colombian food and wine.
The Grand Club at Grand Hyatt Bogota exceeded my expectations, providing great value whether you're seeking a quick coffee break or a light dinner with wine. I highly recommend visiting the Grand Club to savor delicious Colombian fare and enjoy the elegant setting.
Gym & Pool Review
The gym at the Grand Hyatt Bogota was located on the third floor and is open 24/7, making it convenient for any schedule. Its clear window panes made it easy to see how many guests were using the facility before you even stepped inside. As expected, the gym was spacious, easily accommodating many guests at once.
The gym was spacious, comfortably accommodating numerous guests simultaneously.
Tall floor-to-ceiling windows flooded the space with natural light and presented a pleasant view of the Teusaquillo neighborhood. Upon entering, I found free weights and a Smith machine, along with other strength machines.
The gym offered a wide array of strength training options, and its spacious layout ensured guests had ample personal space for their workouts.
Next to the dumbbells, there was a selection of barbells that shared weight plates with the Smith machine, providing versatile options for weightlifting. Additional strength machines were scattered throughout the gym, while cardio equipment primarily lined the windowed walls.
Tall floor-to-ceiling windows flooded the area with natural light and provided a pleasant view of the Teusaquillo neighborhood.
At the far end, an open studio space was available for classes or full-body workouts. While the equipment might not be the latest, it was well-maintained, and I particularly appreciated the generous spacing between machines.
The fitness center embodied the scale and luxury of the Hyatt’s Grand Hyatt brand, designed to accommodate numerous guests simultaneously.
Unlike some hotels that cram equipment into every available inch, the Grand Hyatt Bogota's gym offered ample room, ensuring a comfortable workout experience.
The fitness center even featured a studio for classes and full-body workouts.
Adjacent to the gym were the locker rooms and the pool. The men's locker room featured rows of complimentary lockers and a few private changing rooms. Guests could use walk-in shower booths with rainfall showerheads before or after swimming or using the sauna.
The men's locker room was well-appointed with rows of complimentary lockers and a few private changing rooms.
The hotel presented both dry and steam saunas, perfect for unwinding after a workout. I preferred the high temperature of the dry sauna, while my wife enjoyed the hydrating effects of the steam sauna.
After an intense workout session, the dry sauna became my go-to option for relaxation.
After the sauna, a serene walkway with mini pools led to the main swimming pool.
The walkway to the indoor swimming pool was serene, enhanced by purposefully placed light columns that decorated the path.
The indoor pool had three lanes ideal for lap swimming, though the unheated water was a bit chilly for more than a few laps.
The indoor swimming pool featured a skylight ceiling and large windows, creating a seamless blend between the indoors and outdoors.
Natural light streamed in through the skylight, and there were plenty of sunbeds to choose from.
Unfortunately, the water was not heated, making it a bit chilly for prolonged swimming.
Post-swim, you could relax in the sauna to ease your muscles or enjoy the hydrotherapy pools. The deep jacuzzi with strong jets was my favorite spot.
The jacuzzi was a popular spot among guests, offering muscle relaxation with its strong jets.
A cold plunge pool with jets was also available, though I couldn't bring myself to use it due to the cold temperature.
The cold plunge pool would have been perfect if it were located closer to the saunas in the locker room.
The pool area’s interior design was particularly appealing, with wooden accents on the ceiling adding warmth to the space. Initially, I admired the wooden deck for its aesthetic, but its coating made the surface extremely slippery.
While the wooden deck added a nice touch, it became incredibly slippery when wet.
To enhance safety, it would be great if the hotel provided rubber slippers, similar to what I've seen at Villa Copenhagen in Copenhagen or Hotel St. George in Helsinki. Overall, the gym and pool facilities at the Grand Hyatt Bogota were well-designed and thoughtfully equipped, spotlighting a blend of functionality and luxury that enhances the overall guest experience.
Breakfast Review—Capitalino
Breakfast at Capitalino, located on the lobby level, was served daily from 6 AM to 10:30 AM. As a Hyatt Globalist, my breakfast was complimentary. Upon arrival, a receptionist confirmed my room number and escorted me to a cozy booth, setting the stage for a lovely morning meal.
Breakfast was served at Capitalino on the lobby level and reflected the Grand Hyatt brand's high standards.
The restaurant’s spacious layout comfortably accommodated various group sizes, and the high ceilings paired with ample natural light on sunny mornings created a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The loft ceilings made the morning breakfast inviting as natural light streamed through the windows.
I started my day with a cappuccino before heading to the hot food station, where the aroma of freshly prepared Colombian breakfast dishes from the open kitchen heightened my anticipation. The hot food offerings included beans calentado, crunchy pork belly, beef in creole sauce, arepas, and crispy humitas.
Cast iron pots with food warmers kept hot entrees warm throughout the meal.
Presented in Dutch ovens on heat pads, the dishes stayed warm throughout the breakfast service. I loaded my first plate with proteins and a hearty bowl of caldo de costilla, which surpassed the one I had at W Bogota.
The breakfast at Capitalino featured hearty Colombian dishes alongside typical breakfast classics, providing a satisfying start to the day.
While the pork belly was a bit dry, the beef in creole sauce and humitas with chimichurri were exceptional. For lighter breakfast options, the restaurant featured cereals, nuts, and dried fruits for yogurt.
The cereals offer kid-friendly breakfast options, but I highly recommend trying some traditional Colombian breakfast dishes for a culinary adventure.
However, I recommend trying the fresh pre-cut fruits, which were both refreshing and delicious.
The wide array of tropical fruits might be unfamiliar to some, including myself, but I loved the opportunity to sample many different kinds.
I particularly enjoyed the tartness of fresh lulo, as well as the tropical sweetness of yellow dragon fruits and passion fruits.
One of my favorites, passionfruit, was a bit tart but delicious.
To finish my meal, I indulged in sweet pastries. Though tempted by items like pain au chocolat, the extensive selection of unique jams, including gooseberry and lulo jam, drew me to a plain roll to sample them.
The extensive bread selection came with numerous condiments to enhance your choice.
The fresh honey, dripping from a honeycomb rack, was a delightful addition. A dollop of this honey mixed with butter was truly heavenly.
I enjoyed mixing fresh honey from the honeycomb with butter to spread on my bread.
I concluded my meal with a glass of limonada con panela—sweet limeade—capping off a delicious Colombian breakfast at the Grand Hyatt Bogota.
The beverages were perfectly refreshing and great for stimulating the morning appetite.
Because my breakfast was complimentary due to my Hyatt Globalist status, I didn’t find out the buffet price for non-elite members. However, if you’re seeking high-quality Colombian breakfast options, I highly recommend giving Capitalino a try.
Lunch Review—Aldeana Market
Alternatively, on the lobby level of the hotel, you’ll find Aldeana Market, a delightful spot offering fresh coffee, pastries, beverages, and grab-and-go-style lunches.
Aldeana provided fresh coffee, pastries, beverages, and grab-and-go-style lunches.
The array of desserts was particularly enticing, making it an ideal place for an afternoon snack accompanied by a cup of coffee.
The seating area by the café was charmingly decorated with references to Colombian soccer and travel.
The café proudly served premium Colombian coffee by La Divisa, and guests could also purchase Colombian coffee beans or a bottle of exquisite coffee liqueur to take home.
The café proudly served premium Colombian coffee by La Divisa, which guests could also purchase to take home.
Open daily from 7 AM to 8 PM, Aldeana Market was perfect for those on the go. In fact, I ended up picking up a sandwich to go before checking out.
Aldeana sold various beverages, along with pre-made salad and rice bowls.
Before checking out, I enjoyed a shot of espresso and sampled palitos de queso, a delicious cheese breadstick.
Freshly baked bread was the perfect complement to the rich Colombian coffee.
Whether you’re in a hurry or looking for a quick meal without leaving the hotel, Aldeana Market is a fantastic option.
Positives & Negatives
Positives
My upgraded suite at the Grand Hyatt Bogota featured a simple, natural aesthetic that provided a perfect retreat after exploring the bustling streets of Bogota. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the Andes Mountains, enhancing the suite's tranquil atmosphere.
The ambiance and service at the Grand Club far exceeded my expectations. It became my go-to spot for relaxing and recharging during the day and unwinding at night.
One of my favorite amenities was the indoor pool. Despite the unheated water, the three wide swim lanes ensured it never felt crowded. For those who prefer not to swim, the sauna and hydrotherapy pools offer a fantastic way to relax and rejuvenate.
Negatives
the location of the Grand Hyatt Bogota may not be ideal for first-time visitors. While it is situated in a safe neighborhood with convenient proximity to the airport, reaching major tourist attractions in the La Candelaria neighborhood can be time-consuming due to Bogota's chaotic traffic.
Summary
My stay at the Grand Hyatt Bogota was a true retreat. The upgraded suite exuded a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere with its beautiful design. I thoroughly enjoyed the delicious afternoon and evening snacks at the Grand Club, and the breakfast buffet at Capitalino, brimming with delectable Colombian dishes, was simply irresistible. The amenities, particularly the indoor swimming pool, perfectly encapsulated the luxurious identity of the Grand Hyatt brand. Although the hotel's location may be tricky for first-time visitors, as it takes time to reach major attractions in Bogota, the ambiance, hospitality, and amenities more than compensate for it. I highly recommend staying at the Grand Hyatt Bogota for an experience of unparalleled hospitality and top-notch amenities.
