High School Of Public Administration Of Colombia. (Esap)

High School of Public Administration of Colombia (ESAP) Bogotá: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Escuela Superior de Administración Pública (ESAP) is Colombia’s top institution for public administration education and a vital landmark in Bogotá’s governmental and cultural landscape. Founded in 1958, ESAP has played a central role in training generations of ethical public servants and advancing transparent, inclusive governance across Colombia. Its main campus, located in the heart of Bogotá’s administrative district, is not just an academic center but is also open to visitors, prospective students, and researchers eager to learn about Colombia’s public sector journey.

This guide provides comprehensive information about ESAP’s historical significance, practical visitor details, guided tours, accessibility, and travel tips for combining your visit with Bogotá’s renowned nearby attractions. For up-to-date information, always refer to the official ESAP website and its social channels. (source 1, source 2, source 3)

Introduction
Historical Background of ESAP
Visiting ESAP: Location, Hours, and Accessibility
Facilities and Visitor Services
ESAP’s Social and Academic Impact
Nearby Bogotá Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Background of ESAP

ESAP was established in 1958 as part of a national initiative to modernize Colombian public institutions and professionalize state administration (uniRank). Its creation reflected a regional movement in Latin America to enhance governance through specialized education. Over the decades, ESAP has become a leading educational hub, offering bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and over 60 online courses focused on public administration, policy, human rights, and governance (AulaPro). Today, ESAP’s mission is to equip public servants and citizens with the knowledge and skills for ethical, effective public resource management, contributing to a transparent and inclusive Colombian state.

Visiting ESAP: Location, Hours, and Accessibility

Location

Main Campus Address: Carrera 6 # 12-62, Bogotá D.C., Colombia (central administrative district)
Alternative Campus for Visitors: Calle 44 # 53-37, CAN District, Bogotá
Access: Easily reachable via Bogotá’s TransMilenio system (CAN and El Tiempo–Maloka stations), city buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services.

Visiting Hours

Administrative Offices: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Campus Tours: Available by appointment for prospective students, researchers, and groups. Advance scheduling is recommended via ESAP’s contact channels: (+57) 601 7956110 or [email protected]
Events and Seminars: ESAP regularly hosts public lectures, book launches, and workshops. Event times vary and may require registration.

Entry and Tickets

Admission: No general entrance fee for casual visitors. Certain facilities (like the library) and guided tours require prior arrangement.
Special Events: Most are free but may require online or in-person registration.

Accessibility

The campus is equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms to accommodate visitors with disabilities. For specific needs, contact ESAP in advance.

Facilities and Visitor Services

Library and Resource Centers: The Biblioteca y CDIM specializes in public administration literature. Visitor access requires prior approval.
Cafeterias: Offer affordable Colombian cuisine, including arepas, empanadas, and fresh juices.
Wi-Fi: Free campus-wide Wi-Fi for students and registered visitors.
Bookstore (Editorial ESAP): Offers publications on governance, policy, and public administration.
Event Spaces: Host open seminars, lectures, and policy workshops.

ESAP stands out for its commitment to educational equity, offering zero-tuition undergraduate programs for students from low-income backgrounds. Its academic and virtual programs—recognized by Colombia’s Ministry of National Education—prepare students for leadership roles in public administration. The institution integrates contemporary themes, such as human rights, gender equity, and innovation, into its curriculum and public events (AulaPro). By cultivating ethical public servants, ESAP has become a pillar of democratic governance and civic empowerment in Colombia.

Nearby Bogotá Attractions and Travel Tips

Located in a vibrant administrative district, ESAP is close to several key cultural and historical sites:

Plaza de Bolívar: Bogotá’s main square, surrounded by the Cathedral and National Capitol.
Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): A world-renowned museum with pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
Botero Museum: Showcases works by Fernando Botero and international artists.
La Candelaria: The city’s colonial historic district, filled with museums, cafés, and vibrant street art.
Monserrate: A mountain offering panoramic views of Bogotá.

Travel Tips:

Use TransMilenio or authorized taxis/rideshares for safe, efficient access.
The CAN district is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply: keep valuables secure, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and comply with campus security protocols.
Dress in layers; Bogotá’s high altitude means cool weather year-round.
Carry Colombian pesos for on-campus purchases.
Spanish is the primary language; basic phrases can be helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are ESAP’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM for administrative areas; specific event times vary.

Q: Do I need a ticket or permission to visit ESAP?
A: No tickets are needed for casual visits, but prior arrangement is required for campus tours, library access, or events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially for groups, researchers, and academic visitors. Contact ESAP to schedule.

Q: How do I reach ESAP from El Dorado International Airport?
A: Take a TransMilenio bus or authorized taxi to the CAN district; travel time is 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.

Q: Is the campus accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, facilities are equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I attend ESAP events as a member of the public?
A: Most public events are open and free but require advance registration.

Summary and Recommendations

Visiting ESAP in Bogotá is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Colombia’s public administration legacy and commitment to social inclusion. Whether attending a public lecture, exploring the campus library, or joining a guided tour, you’ll experience ESAP’s influential role in shaping ethical governance and civic engagement. Complement your visit by exploring nearby historical landmarks, and always check the official ESAP website for the latest information on visiting hours, tours, and events. (source 1, source 2, source 3)