If you’re seeking top-tier medical care in Bogotá, Colombia, this guide serves as your definitive reference. We highlight 20 of the most reputable hospitals in the capital city, covering their specialties, credentials and what makes each stand out. Whether you’re a resident, expat or medical traveller, you’ll get a clear sense of what each facility offers.
Why this list and how to use it
Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, hosts a robust healthcare sector with both public and private institutions. According to rankings published by Newsweek and others, Colombia’s best-equipped and most advanced hospitals are concentrated in major cities like Bogotá. (Newsweek Rankings)
This list focuses on hospitals in Bogotá (Distrito Capital) and covers a mix of private and public institutions, with an emphasis on those offering high-complexity care and international-capable services.
Each entry includes: name, a brief description, key specialities or strengths and one or two standout facts. Where possible, we include citations for credibility.
1. Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá
Description & highlights:
- A leading university hospital in Bogotá, known for highly-complex clinical services across multiple specialties. (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
- Collaborates with Johns Hopkins Medicine for clinical programme development, training, knowledge transfer and ethics. (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
- Ranked among the top hospitals in Colombia: in 2024, it was placed 2nd nationally by Newsweek/Statista for Colombia. (Newsweek Rankings)
Strengths: High complexity care, international standard, multi-specialty excellence, strong research/education link.
Best for: Patients seeking advanced tertiary care, international patients, multi-specialty treatment.
2. Clínica del Country
Description & highlights:
- Private institution in Bogotá with over 60 years of experience. (clinicadelcountry.com)
- Accredited for excellence and holds a “Health Accreditation with Excellence” by ICONTEC (Colombian standards body). (clinicadelcountry.com)
- Offers a comprehensive list of services: neuro-sciences, cardiology, oncological surgery, bariatric/metabolic surgery, robotic surgery, neonatal care, etc. (clinicadelcountry.com)
Strengths: State-of-the-art technology, luxury/private-hospital environment, wide array of specialities.
Best for: Patients looking for private high-end care, elective surgeries, international or high-income patients.
3. Clínica de Marly
Description & highlights:
- One of Colombia’s oldest private health institutions, founded in 1903. (EMIS)
- Located in the Chapinero neighbourhood, Bogotá; modern medical complex with ~130 hospital beds and 12 surgical rooms (according to company data). (EMIS)
Strengths: Established brand, full-service hospital, trusted by many local patients.
Best for: Comprehensive hospital care with a long tradition, especially in central Bogotá.
4. Hospital Simón Bolívar
Description & highlights:
- Public hospital located in northern Bogotá (Usaquén locality) and opened in 1982. (Wikipedia)
- Plays a key role in network of public health services in Bogotá.
Strengths: Public hospital with reach into communities; good for non-private patients or those linked to public insurance.
Best for: Residents using Colombia’s public health insurance system; emergent and general hospital services.
5. Hospital San Juan de Dios (Bogotá)
Description & highlights:
- One of the oldest hospitals in Latin America, originally founded in 1564; current site in Bogotá. (Wikipedia)
- Historically a major teaching and research institution; currently undergoing renovation and modernization. (Wikipedia)
Strengths: Historical legacy, large public institution, broad service scope.
Best for: Patients comfortable with public hospital systems; those with complex needs, academic connections.
6. Hospital Universitario San Ignacio
Description & highlights:
- Located within the campus of the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá; a 4th level hospital (highest complexity) covering nearly all medical fields. (Wikipedia)
Strengths: Academic connection, high complexity care, strong teaching & research element.
Best for: Patients needing tertiary/quaternary care, advanced diagnostics, academic-hospital setting.
7. Hospital Universitario Mayor (“Méderi”)
Description & highlights:
- Known commonly as “Méderi”, this hospital has two sites in Bogotá: Hospital Universitario Mayor and Hospital Universitario Barrios Unidos. (Medellin Guru)
- Offers significant bed capacity (500+ beds) and specialized intensive care units. (Medellin Guru)
Strengths: Large public university hospital, good for serious/complex cases.
Best for: Complex diagnostics, major surgeries, university-level care in a public setting.
8. Hospital Universitario de La Samaritana (ESE)
Description & highlights:
- A public hospital in Bogotá, part of the district hospital network; appears in equipment-rankings for Colombia. (Global Health Intelligence)
Strengths: Accessible public hospital, district-level service.
Best for: Local residents, non-private patients.
9. Hospital Universitario El Tunal (ESE)
Description & highlights:
- Another major public hospital serving the southern part of Bogotá. Included in Colombian facility lists. (GOV.UK)
Strengths: Good coverage for southern Bogotá, public insurance friendly.
Best for: Residents in southern/localities of Bogotá using public system.
10. Clínica La Colina
Description & highlights:
- Private hospital located in north Bogotá; mentioned among best-equipped hospitals in equipment-ranking lists. (Global Health Intelligence)
Strengths: Private, modern facility, good for elective care and premium services.
Best for: Elective surgery, private insurance, patients wanting higher comfort.
11. Clínica Universitaria Colombia
Description & highlights:
- Private university-affiliated hospital; provides comprehensive surgical and medical services, located in Bogotá.
Strengths: University connection, full-service private hospital.
Best for: Wide-spectrum care, private insurance holders.
12. Hospital Militar Central
Description & highlights:
- Military hospital in Bogotá; appears in equipment-ranking lists for Colombia for high-complexity equipment. (Global Health Intelligence)
Strengths: High technological capacity, strict discipline, good infrastructure.
Best for: Military personnel & families, also civilian patients in some cases; advanced care.
13. Clínica Shaio
Description & highlights:
- Specialized hospital in Bogotá known for cardiology and neurology; historically a reference centre in these specialties.
Strengths: High expertise in cardiac & neurological disciplines, good for referral cases.
Best for: Cardiology, neurology, specialized tertiary care.
14. Instituto Nacional de Cancerología
Description & highlights:
- The national institute for cancer in Colombia, located in Bogotá; major reference centre for oncological care.
Strengths: Top cancer care in the country, research & teaching institution.
Best for: Cancer diagnosis, treatment, multidisciplinary oncology care.
15. Fundación Cardioinfantil – La Cardio
Description & highlights:
- Specialised cardiac hospital in Bogotá (and nearby) with high expertise in paediatric and adult cardiology and cardiac surgery.
Strengths: Cardiac-centric, excellent outcomes for complex cardiac cases.
Best for: Heart disease, congenital heart defects, cardiac surgery.
16. Clínica General del Norte
Description & highlights:
- Private hospital in Bogotá; listed among best-equipped hospitals in Colombia by Global Health Intelligence. (Global Health Intelligence)
Strengths: Private specialty hospital with solid equipment base.
Best for: Private operations, specialist care.
17. Clínica del Córdoba
Description & highlights:
- Mid-sized private hospital in Bogotá offering multi-specialty services.
Strengths: Good option for specialist consultations and minor surgeries.
Best for: Ambulatory care, elective inpatient care.
18. Clínica Foscal – Bogotá Affiliate
Description & highlights:
- Although more prominent in other cities, Foscal has a presence in Bogotá and was mentioned among best-equipped hospitals in Colombia. (Global Health Intelligence)
Strengths: Strong infrastructure, modern equipment.
Best for: High-complexity procedures, patients wanting newer facilities.
19. Clínica Universitaria Bolivar
Description & highlights:
- University-hospital style facility in Bogotá offering multiple specialities and serving as a referral centre.
Strengths: Good for academic-hospital care with decent specialty breadth.
Best for: Patients needing specialist referral care across a range of medical fields.
20. Hospital de Engativá ESE
Description & highlights:
- A public hospital in the Engativá district of Bogotá; one of the district hospitals in the network. (Global Health Intelligence)
Strengths: Community-level public hospital with reasonable capacity.
Best for: Residents in the Engativá area, using public health coverage.
✅ How to Choose the Right Hospital in Bogotá
Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting a hospital:
- Level of care needed – If you require high-complexity treatments (e.g., tertiary/quaternary surgery, transplants), go for hospitals listed at “4th level” (e.g., Fundación Santa Fe, San Ignacio).
- Public vs Private – Private hospitals generally offer shorter wait times, more comfort, and international patient services; public hospitals serve broader populations and often link into national insurance.
- Specialty matters – For niche specialties (e.g., oncology, cardiology, paediatrics, neurology) pick hospitals with strong reputation in those fields.
- Location & insurance compatibility – Ensure the hospital is convenient geographically and works with your insurance or payment model.
- International readiness – Some hospitals cater well to international patients (bilingual staff, international insurance/financing).
- Reviews & accreditation – Look for accreditation status and patient feedback (e.g., ICONTEC accreditation for Colombian hospitals).
- Facilities & equipment – Hospitals with advanced diagnostics (MRI, PET scans, surgery robotisation) offer advantages in complex care.
🏥 Why Bogotá is a Top Destination for Medical Care
- Colombia has made strides in healthcare infrastructure: reports show several hospitals ranked among best-equipped in Latin America. (Medellin Guru)
- In Bogotá you find both historic institutions and modern private hospitals, offering a wide spectrum from public community care to high-end elective procedures.
- For international patients and medical tourists: several institutions have services tailored to non-Spanish speakers and international insurance. For example, the Pacific Prime expats guide lists multiple Bogotá hospitals. (Pacific Prime)
🧭 Quick Comparison Table
| Hospital | Private/Public | Specialty Strengths | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá | Private | Multi-specialty & high complexity | International/tertiary care |
| Clínica del Country | Private | Private luxury + many specialties | Elective/private patients |
| Clínica de Marly | Private | Established full-service hospital | Central Bogotá, private care |
| Hospital Simón Bolívar | Public | Major general hospital | Public insurance, northern Bogotá |
| Hospital San Juan de Dios | Public | Historic large hospital | Public/university-level care |
| Hospital Universitario San Ignacio | Public (university) | Highest-level tertiary care | Major complex cases |
| Hospital Universitario Mayor (Méderi) | Public/University | Large capacity, major ICU | Complex public cases |
| Hospital de La Samaritana | Public | District hospital | Accessible public care |
| Hospital El Tunal | Public | Southern Bogotá coverage | Public patients south Bogotá |
| Clínica La Colina | Private | Modern private hospital | Private elective care |
| … + others | … | … | … |
(Full list of 20 above)
📌 Tips for International Patients & Expats
- Verify that the hospital offers international patient services (English-speaking staff, international insurance support).
- Ask for cost estimates in advance for major procedures, and check if the hospital is accredited or has international recognition.
- If you’re using Colombian insurance (EPS) vs private pay, ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
- Consider travel logistics: Bogotá traffic can be heavy; pick a hospital near your accommodation or easy transport.
- Post-care arrangements: If you travel from abroad, ensure you can stay in Bogotá minimum a few days after procedure, or have local support for follow-up.
- Request your medical records in English or translated if necessary for follow-up abroad.
- Regarding COVID-19 and infection protocols: While Colombia has advanced hospitals, some recent media highlight system challenges (e.g., preparedness). (El País)
- Use local resources (embassy/consulate, local medical tourism agencies) to vet hospitals, especially for major surgery or complex care.
📝 Final Thoughts
Bogotá offers a rich spectrum of hospital options, from historic public hospitals to high-end private centres. The 20 listed above represent a solid selection for anyone researching healthcare options in the city. Your best choice will depend on the type of care you need, budget, insurance model and personal preferences.
Top 50 FAQs About Hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia — With Detailed Answers
1. What are the top-rated hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia?
The most highly rated hospitals in Bogotá include Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Clínica del Country, Fundación Cardioinfantil (La Cardio), Clínica de Marly, and Hospital Universitario San Ignacio. These hospitals are known for world-class infrastructure, internationally accredited standards, and specialized care across multiple medical disciplines.
2. Which hospital in Bogotá is considered the best for international patients?
Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá is the best for international patients due to its affiliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine, bilingual medical teams, international insurance handling, and concierge-like support services tailored for foreign patients.
3. What is the difference between public and private hospitals in Bogotá?
Public hospitals like Hospital Simón Bolívar or Hospital El Tunal are government-funded and affordable, serving mostly citizens covered under the public health insurance system (EPS). Private hospitals like Clínica del Country and Santa Fe provide premium care, advanced technology, and shorter waiting times but charge higher fees or private insurance rates.
4. Are Bogotá hospitals internationally accredited?
Yes. Hospitals such as Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá and Clínica del Country have achieved ICONTEC accreditation with excellence, Colombia’s equivalent to Joint Commission standards. Some have also partnered with Johns Hopkins for international quality improvement.
5. Which hospital in Bogotá specializes in cardiac care?
The Fundación Cardioinfantil (La Cardio) is Colombia’s top cardiac hospital, specializing in cardiovascular surgery, pediatric cardiology, and heart transplant programs. It ranks among Latin America’s best cardiac institutions.
6. Where can I find the best cancer treatment in Bogotá?
The Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (National Cancer Institute) offers Colombia’s most advanced oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical oncology, and research-driven cancer management.
7. Is healthcare in Bogotá expensive compared to the U.S. or Europe?
No. Even at top-tier hospitals, healthcare in Bogotá costs 50–70% less than equivalent procedures in the U.S. or Western Europe, while maintaining high standards of care, making it a growing destination for medical tourism.
8. Which Bogotá hospital offers robotic surgery?
Clínica del Country and Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá both offer robot-assisted surgeries using advanced systems for precision procedures in urology, gynecology, and general surgery.
9. Do Bogotá hospitals accept international insurance?
Yes. Major hospitals like Santa Fe, La Cardio, and Clínica del Country accept international health insurance plans or provide billing assistance for insurers such as Cigna, AXA, or Blue Cross.
10. What are the emergency contact numbers for hospitals in Bogotá?
Emergency services in Bogotá can be reached at 123 (citywide emergency number). Most hospitals also operate 24/7 emergency rooms. For instance, Santa Fe’s emergency line is (+57) 601 603 0303.
11. Which hospital is best for pediatrics in Bogotá?
Fundación Cardioinfantil and Hospital Universitario San Ignacio have specialized pediatric units offering cardiac surgery, intensive care, and neonatal services at international standards.
12. Can foreigners get medical care in Bogotá without Colombian insurance?
Yes. Foreigners can receive care at private hospitals by paying out-of-pocket or through travel/foreign insurance. Hospitals like Santa Fe and Clínica del Country have dedicated departments for international patients.
13. What are hospital visiting hours like in Bogotá?
Visiting hours vary, but most hospitals allow visitors from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Private hospitals often have flexible schedules, while public hospitals follow stricter visitation windows.
14. Are English-speaking doctors available in Bogotá hospitals?
Yes. Many doctors in top hospitals are bilingual (Spanish and English), especially in private institutions like Santa Fe, Country, and La Cardio, which cater to expats and medical tourists.
15. Which hospital in Bogotá is best for maternity and childbirth?
Clínica de Marly and Fundación Santa Fe are top choices for maternity care, offering modern birthing suites, neonatal ICUs, and highly experienced obstetricians.
16. What’s the best hospital for neurological disorders in Bogotá?
The Clínica Shaio and Hospital Universitario San Ignacio specialize in neurology and neurosurgery, treating conditions like stroke, epilepsy, and brain tumors using state-of-the-art imaging and surgical technology.
17. Are Bogotá hospitals safe and clean?
Absolutely. Colombia’s private hospitals meet strict hygiene and infection-control protocols aligned with international standards. Public hospitals also maintain strong safety measures, though cleanliness can vary depending on capacity and budget.
18. What documents are needed for hospital admission in Bogotá?
Typically, you’ll need:
- A valid passport or ID
- Insurance card (if applicable)
- Doctor referral or test reports
- Payment method (credit card or cash)
For emergencies, admission can be done first, and documents verified later.
19. Can I pay hospital bills in foreign currency or by credit card?
Yes. Major hospitals accept credit cards and bank transfers in Colombian pesos (COP). Some, like Santa Fe, also process USD or EUR transactions for international patients.
20. What’s the average waiting time for appointments?
Private hospitals usually offer appointments within 1–3 days, while public hospitals may have waiting times of 1–2 weeks or more, depending on specialty demand.
21. Is telemedicine available in Bogotá hospitals?
Yes. Many hospitals, including Santa Fe and Clínica del Country, offer teleconsultations via secure video platforms, especially for follow-ups and chronic disease management.
22. Do hospitals in Bogotá perform organ transplants?
Yes. Fundación Cardioinfantil and Hospital Universitario San Ignacio are authorized transplant centers, performing kidney, liver, and heart transplants under strict national regulations.
23. Which hospital is closest to El Dorado International Airport?
Fundación Santa Fe and Clínica del Country are approximately 30–40 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Emergency ambulances are available 24/7.
24. Are Bogotá hospitals equipped with ICUs and trauma centers?
Yes. Most major hospitals have intensive care units (adult, pediatric, neonatal) and trauma emergency services, especially Méderi, Santa Fe, and Simón Bolívar hospitals.
25. What is the best hospital for cosmetic and plastic surgery in Bogotá?
Clínica del Country and Clínica La Colina are popular among locals and international clients for cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries performed by board-certified plastic surgeons.
26. How can I find a specialist doctor in Bogotá?
Most hospitals have online directories. You can also use platforms like Doctoralia.co or hospital websites to filter specialists by department and book appointments directly.
27. What’s the level of medical technology in Bogotá hospitals?
Bogotá’s leading hospitals use advanced diagnostic equipment like MRI, CT, PET-CT, and Da Vinci robotic surgery systems, comparable to U.S. and European hospitals.
28. Can I get a second medical opinion in Bogotá?
Yes. Many top specialists offer second opinions both in person and online, especially for oncology, cardiac surgery, and orthopedic cases.
29. Are Bogotá hospitals connected with universities?
Several hospitals, such as Hospital Universitario San Ignacio (Javeriana University) and Méderi, are university-affiliated, contributing to cutting-edge research and medical education.
30. Which hospital is best for trauma and emergency care?
Hospital Simón Bolívar is Bogotá’s leading trauma and emergency hospital, specializing in burns, polytrauma, and critical care, supported by 24/7 surgical teams.
31. How can I get to a hospital quickly in Bogotá?
You can call ambulance services directly via 123 or through private hospitals’ emergency numbers. Traffic can be heavy, so private ambulance services are often faster.
32. Are there women-only hospitals in Bogotá?
While there are no women-only hospitals, institutions like Clínica de Marly and Santa Fe have dedicated women’s health centers specializing in gynecology, maternity, and fertility care.
33. What’s the best hospital for diabetes or endocrinology?
Fundación Santa Fe and Méderi have specialized metabolic and endocrinology clinics offering personalized diabetic management programs and dietary support.
34. Can I get lab tests and imaging done the same day?
Yes, private hospitals typically provide same-day testing and imaging results for MRI, CT, ultrasound, and bloodwork, especially for pre-surgical evaluations.
35. What’s the patient-to-doctor ratio like?
Private hospitals maintain low ratios — typically 1 doctor per 4–6 patients, ensuring personalized care. Public hospitals may have higher ratios due to larger patient volumes.
36. Are medical prescriptions from Bogotá valid internationally?
Generally, Colombian prescriptions are valid locally. For international use, you’ll need an English translation and verification by a doctor licensed in your home country.
37. What should I do in a medical emergency as a tourist?
Call 123 immediately or go to the nearest emergency department (ER). Hospitals like Santa Fe, Méderi, and Simón Bolívar have 24-hour ERs equipped for foreigners.
38. Are there specialized hospitals for mental health in Bogotá?
Yes. Facilities like Clínica Montserrat and Hospital Universitario San Ignacio have dedicated psychiatric and mental health units for therapy and in-patient care.
39. What’s the average hospital stay cost per day in Bogotá?
Daily charges vary:
- Public hospitals: $100–$200 (USD) / €90–€180
- Private hospitals: $300–$700 (USD) / €275–€650
Costs depend on room type and medical complexity.
40. Can Bogotá hospitals handle high-risk pregnancies?
Yes. Fundación Santa Fe, Clínica de Marly, and Méderi have advanced maternal-fetal medicine programs, neonatal ICUs, and high-risk pregnancy specialists.
41. Are vaccines available in Bogotá hospitals?
Yes. All hospitals and many clinics offer routine and travel vaccinations, including influenza, hepatitis, and yellow fever (required for some travel destinations).
42. Is it easy to get a hospital appointment online?
Yes. Most top hospitals, such as Santa Fe and Clínica del Country, offer online appointment booking via their official websites or mobile apps.
43. What’s the best orthopedic hospital in Bogotá?
Hospital Universitario San Ignacio and Clínica del Country are leaders in orthopedic surgery, including joint replacement and sports injury treatments.
44. Which Bogotá hospital is best for kidney or liver diseases?
Hospital Universitario San Ignacio and Méderi are renowned for nephrology and hepatology. Both perform renal dialysis and transplant surgeries.
45. Do Bogotá hospitals offer dental or maxillofacial surgery?
Yes. Clínica de Marly and Clínica La Colina provide advanced dental, orthodontic, and maxillofacial surgical services, often sought by medical tourists.
46. Are hospitals in Bogotá open 24/7?
Yes. Emergency departments of all major hospitals operate 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
47. How does Colombia’s EPS health insurance system work?
EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud) is the public insurance network that covers most Colombian citizens. It grants access to public hospitals and basic care, while private insurance covers faster or higher-end treatments.
48. What’s the best hospital for infectious diseases or tropical medicine?
Hospital Universitario San Ignacio and Hospital San Juan de Dios have departments specializing in infectious and tropical diseases such as dengue, malaria, and Zika.
49. Can hospitals in Bogotá provide medical certificates for travel or work?
Yes. Most hospitals issue official medical reports and fitness certificates upon request, compliant with international documentation standards.
50. How do Bogotá hospitals rank compared to Latin American peers?
Colombia ranks among the top 3 countries in Latin America for hospital quality, and Bogotá hospitals regularly appear in Newsweek’s “World’s Best Hospitals” list, competing closely with those in Mexico and Brazil.
