Monserrate hosts a Sunday ascent on 18 October
Published on 10/18/2026 at 08:51 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWSMonserrate in Bogotá hosts a Sunday ascent on 18 October 2026, with the Instituto Distrital de Recreación y Deporte inviting residents, tourists and worshippers to climb its 1,605-step trail. The route leads to the Basilica of the Fallen Lord in Colombia’s eastern hills.
The city authority places the ascent at Carrera Segunda Este No. 21-48, Paseo Bolívar, where the trail begins.
The 18 October ascent follows 1,605 steps to the basilica
The invitation forms part of Bogotá’s public programme linking outdoor activity and religious tradition. The precise date is Sunday 18 October 2026, placing the climb within the city’s recurring series of Sunday journeys to the sanctuary.
The route is used by visitors, sports participants and worshippers. Its destination is the Basilica of the Fallen Lord, which contains a representation of the Fallen Lord and a replica of the Virgin of Montserrat. The city programme for 18 October sets out the date, route and visitor guidance.
Monserrate's trail connects Bogotá views with a hilltop basilica
The climb combines a physical trail with a religious destination above Bogotá. The sanctuary is associated with the Fallen Lord, while the route gives walkers views across the capital during the ascent.
The operator identifies the site at Carrera 2 Este No. 21-48, Paseo Bolívar, and records the summit at 3,152 metres above sea level. For the period from 13 September to 23 October 2026, transport to the summit is available exclusively by funicular, as stated on the operator's visitor information. This changes the practical choice for visitors who do not use the walking trail.
The physical character of the route explains the authority’s caution. It advises against the climb for pregnant women and people with certain heart, respiratory, blood-pressure, blood-sugar or mobility conditions.
Visiting Monserrate: what travellers from Western Europe should know
- The special Sunday ascent takes place on 18 October 2026 at the trail entrance at Carrera Segunda Este No. 21-48, Paseo Bolívar.
- The trail normally permits ascent from 5am to 1pm and closes on Tuesdays for maintenance. Visitors should follow the instructions of the IDRD and on-site staff.
- The route contains 1,605 steps and reaches the Basilica of the Fallen Lord. There are no public toilets on the trail because it lacks water and sewage infrastructure.
- Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear are advised. Visitors should keep to the right, remain on authorised paths and avoid eating during the climb.
- Spanish is Colombia’s official language and the national currency is the Colombian peso. Entry requirements depend on your nationality; UK travellers can check the FCDO travel advice at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice, Irish travellers the Department of Foreign Affairs at ireland.ie.
Searching for Monserrate on social platforms
These links open searches for Monserrate on each platform.
Frequently asked questions about Monserrate
When does the Sunday ascent take place at Monserrate?
The invitation is for Sunday 18 October 2026, with the ascent using the 1,605-step trail to the basilica.
Where is Monserrate and how do you get there?
The trail entrance is at Carrera Segunda Este No. 21-48, Paseo Bolívar, in Bogotá. The operator says transport is by funicular only from 13 September to 23 October 2026.
What is Monserrate?
It is a hilltop destination in Bogotá with a basilica, a walking trail and transport by funicular or cable car outside the stated restriction period.
