✈️ Flight Guide: San Francisco (SFO) → Bogota (BOG)

Bogotá: December in Bogotá is festive — key events include Día de las Velitas (Day of the Little Candles) on December 7, widespread Christmas light displays, parades, and holiday markets that peak in mid- to late-December. These events attract domestic tourists, increasing domestic flight and hotel demand. Nearby attractions like the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and weekend markets are popular December day trips. San Francisco: In December, the Bay Area offers holiday markets, tree lightings, and seasonal performances that may either precede your departure or greet you on return. If attending holiday events in either city, book transportation and accommodation early to avoid premium prices. CTA: Check local event calendars and secure flights and hotels early for December SFO → BOG travel.

For the best combination of price and convenience on SFO → BOG, avoid the Christmas/New Year’s peak: the cheapest days in December are typically early December weekdays. If your travel dates are flexible, consider flying the first or second week of December or after New Year’s Day for lower holiday-season prices and less crowded airports. Shoulder months like late January and February can offer lower fares and fewer crowds if your schedule allows. CTA: Use flexible date searches and fare calendars to identify the best December travel windows from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to El Dorado International Airport (BOG).

Nonstop flights (when available) between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and El Dorado International Airport (BOG) save travel time and reduce the risk of missed connections during December’s busy travel period, but they often come at a premium. One-stop itineraries—commonly routed through Panama City (PTY) with Copa, Miami (MIA) with American, or Houston (IAH) with United—frequently offer lower fares and more schedule options, though they increase total travel time and connection risk. In December, prioritize shorter layovers on one-stop tickets to reduce the chance of disruption, or invest in a nonstop seat if convenience and time savings are a priority. CTA: Compare nonstop and one-stop prices and book the option that best balances cost, time, and peace of mind for December travel.

Avianca: Often offers direct or one-stop options with competitive pricing and a strong network within Colombia. Pros: Colombian carrier familiarity, good intra-country connectivity, and frequent promotions; cons: variable in-flight amenities depending on aircraft. Copa Airlines: Strong one-stop option via Panama City (PTY) with smooth connections and consistent schedules; pros: efficient PTY hub, often lower fares; cons: adds layover time. American Airlines: Offers convenient connections via Miami (MIA) with strong U.S. network feed, useful for travelers joining from other U.S. cities; pros: loyalty perks and frequent flights; cons: potential for higher holiday fares. United Airlines: Connects via Houston (IAH) or other U.S. hubs offering broad partner networks; pros: ample domestic connections for U.S. travelers; cons: longer total travel time for some itineraries. For December travel, weigh nonstop convenience against potential cost savings of one-stop carriers. CTA: Compare carrier fares and loyalty benefits for your December SFO → BOG itinerary and book early to secure the best seats.

Pack in layers for Bogotá’s cool, often rainy climate — lightweight wool or fleece, a waterproof shell, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Prepare for altitude by hydrating before and during the first day, avoid heavy meals on arrival, and consider over-the-counter remedies if you are prone to altitude discomfort. For December departures from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), check in online, enroll in TSA PreCheck if eligible, and anticipate longer lines; consider airport lounges or arriving earlier than usual. Use flexible tickets or travel insurance that covers holiday schedule changes, and place transit and accommodations on standby or confirm reservations in advance. CTA: Pack smart, set flight alerts, and consider travel protection to safeguard your December SFO → BOG plans.

Typical flight time from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to El Dorado International Airport (BOG) ranges from roughly 7 hours 30 minutes (nonstop, if available) to 10–15+ hours for one-stop itineraries depending on connection length. Common connection hubs include Panama City (PTY) for Copa Airlines (often one-stop with short layovers), Miami (MIA) on American Airlines, and Houston (IAH) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) on U.S. carriers. December schedules add extra frequencies on high-demand days, particularly the week before Christmas and New Year’s. When booking, compare total trip time (including layover) rather than only flight hours; sometimes a slightly pricier nonstop or short-layover itinerary is worth the convenience. CTA: Check live schedules and select a December itinerary that balances price and total travel time.

Finding cheap December flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to El Dorado International Airport (BOG) requires timing and flexibility. Aim to book 6–10 weeks in advance; early December travel dates (first two weeks) are often cheaper than peak holiday weeks. Be flexible with departure days — midweek (Tuesdays, Wednesdays) and red-eye departures can yield substantial savings. Consider one-stop itineraries via Panama City (PTY) or Miami (MIA) which can be cheaper than seasonal nonstop options. Use fare alerts, compare multi-airline itineraries, and search incognito to avoid dynamic price inflation. CTA: Set fare alerts and compare one-stop vs nonstop options to find the best December deal for SFO → BOG.