Along the road next to the waterfall are a dozen or more food stands where local families sell arepas, corn on the cob and several types of meat to visitors. Additionally, there is an old, abandoned hotel built on the side of the cliff overlooking the waterfall. The hotel is currently being renovated and turned into a museum, but tours are still being offered to those who want to get a glimpse inside. Several locals also work at the hotel, as tour guides and as part of the restoration crew.
The contamination is by far the biggest problem in this area. The waste and chemical pollution not only makes the water undrinkable, but renders it almost completely devoid of life. Many people choose not to even visit due to the overwhelming smell emanating from the water. Flooding is also a major issue, because when the river floods it can spread the contaminants, which is especially problematic for those living near the banks.
Many initiatives have been started to help save this dying river. Additional water treatment plants are being built and existing plants are being expanded in order to clean as much water as possible. The city has also started offering educational tours by boat in small sections of the Bogotá River to raise awareness of its importance and encourage people to take care of it. These efforts are the most beneficial for locals trying to adapt to this polluted environment.
