EduWiki Conference 2025/Guide
Bogotá, Colombia
May 30 - June 1, 2025
Important Information For All Participants
[edit]We are thrilled to welcome you to Bogotá for EduWiki Conference 2025!
Thank you for being part of this community and for bringing your presence to help make EduWiki 2025 a meaningful and transformative experience.
Welcome to Bogotá—and to this celebration of free knowledge!
Registration & Conference Badge
[edit]Participants arriving before the evening of May 29 will be able to register and pick up their badge between 6:00 and 7:00 PM, just before dinner. Registration will take place in the “Excelencia” room on the 17th floor of the Tequendama Hotel. For all other participants, registration will open on the morning of May 30, starting at 8:00 AM, also in the “Excelencia” room on the 17th floor of the Tequendama Hotel.
Friendly Space Policy & Security
[edit]Taking into account that civility and assuming good faith are core principles of the Wikimedia movement, Wikipedia & Education User Group together with Wikimedia Colombia expect all participants to abide to the WMF's Friendly Space Policy for Wikimedia movement events, Wikimedia Colombia's Protocol for Biosecurity During Events as well as the Universal Code of Conduct during all activities of EduWiki Conference 2025.
Visa Reimbursement
[edit]Participants eligible for visa reimbursement must email their visa payment receipts in advance to bernardo.caycedo@wikimediacolombia.org.
Reimbursements will be made in person on Friday, May 30, between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, next to the registration table, before the start of the conference.
Cultural Activities
[edit]Saturday, May 31
5:30 PM – Visit to the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro, Cra. 6 #15-88). Transportation will be provided.
7:00 PM – Special dinner at Andrés D.C. (Calle 82 No. 11–15). Transportation will be provided.
Internet Access
[edit]Free internet access will be provided via wi-fi networks at Hotel Tequendama.
Other Important Information
[edit]Currency
[edit]Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP). Banknotes come in denominations of 2.000, 5.000, 10.000, 20.000, 50.000 and 100.000 pesos. Coins come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1.000 pesos.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and larger stores. However, cash is recommended for small vendors, taxis, local markets, and tips. ATMs are widely available throughout Bogotá.
Electricity
[edit]
The standard voltage in Colombia is 110 volts, and the frequency is 60 Hz. Power sockets are of types A and B (the same as in the United States and Canada). If your devices use a different plug or voltage, you will need an adapter or converter.
Language
[edit]The official language is Spanish. While English may be spoken at hotels and some tourist spots, most people do not speak it fluently. Locals are usually friendly and will try to help, but we recommend learning a few basic Spanish phrases or using a translation app to ease communication.
Weather
[edit]Bogotá has a mild and cool climate due to its elevation (2,640 meters above sea level). Temperatures are relatively constant year-round, generally ranging from 12°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F). Rain is possible at any time, especially in the afternoons, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella or light rain jacket.
Clothing Recommendations
[edit]Always carry a light jacket or waterproof coat Dress in layers (e.g., T-shirt, sweater, jacket) to adjust to changing temperatures Bring an umbrella or rain poncho for sudden showers Pack comfortable, breathable clothes for sunny periods Closed, comfortable shoes are ideal due to the humid and unpredictable weather
Safety
[edit]Bogotá is generally safe in main tourist areas, but like in any large city, it’s important to stay alert and follow these safety tips:
- Avoid showing valuables (phones, laptops, cameras) in public.
- Use authorized taxi services or ride-hailing apps such as Uber, DiDi, or Cabify.
- Don’t walk alone late at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
- Keep your belongings secure in public transport and busy places.
- Carry only essential items when going out (e.g., a passport copy - do not bring with you your passport unless you feel it is safer with you), limited cash, and a contact number).
- Sorry for stating the obvious: please do not speak to strangers, not even if they speak in English.
- If you are unsure about safe routes or areas, consult the event team or hotel staff.
- In case of emergency, dial 123 (free and available for all emergency services).
Emergency Numbers
[edit]- Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire): 123
- Tourist police: (+57 1) 3374413
Event Coordination Bernardo Caycedo – Wikimedia Colombia - Knowledge Engagement Coordinator +57 304 6222526
Mónica Bonilla – Wikimedia Colombia Director de@wikimediacolombia.org +57 3122359798
Hotel Tequendama Reception +57 601 3820300
Nearby Medical Center: San Ignacio Hospital at Javeriana University Kra 7° #40-62, Bogotá, Colombia
Water and Food
[edit]Tap water in Bogotá is considered safe to drink. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are used to bottled water, feel free to choose bottled options, which are widely available. Colombian cuisine is diverse and flavorful—don’t miss the chance to try local dishes like ajiaco and arepas. Street food is popular but be mindful of hygiene.
Time Zone
[edit]Colombia is in the Colombia Time Zone (COT), which is UTC -5. The country does not observe daylight saving time.
Yellow Fever Outbreak
[edit]As of early 2025, Colombia is experiencing a significant yellow fever outbreak. The outbreak is primarily concentrated in the department of Tolima but has also affected other regions. In response, the Colombian government declared a national health emergency in April 2025 and launched a mass vaccination campaign aiming to immunize over 2 million people within two months.
Although Bogotá, situated at an altitude of 2,640 meters, is not considered a high-risk area for yellow fever transmission, travelers planning to visit rural or lower-altitude regions in Colombia are strongly advised to get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. A vaccination or vaccination certificate is not required to enter Colombia, unless you are arriving from or have recently traveled to Brazil, Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda.