colombia international travel information

13 things to know before visiting Colombia

Feb 29, 2024 • 8 min read

From health and safety to etiquette, these tips can help you plan your trip to Colombia © jeremykingnz / Shutterstock

Whether you’re drawn by its beguiling coastlines , untamed jungle or high-altitude national parks , Colombia is guaranteed to dazzle.

After decades of association with armed conflict and drug cartels, this South American country has moved well beyond those dark decades, emerging from that chapter of history as one of the continent’s most thrilling and welcoming destinations to explore . 

Travelers to Colombia should prepare for a trip that will leave them wishing they never had a return ticket, thanks to the country’s remarkably warm and friendly people and uniquely Latin spirit.

Follow these tips on planning and health and safety to ensure a truly unforgettable trip to Colombia.

1. Don't attempt to see all of Colombia in one trip

A big mistake that even seasoned travelers have made is to try and pack too much into a trip around Colombia. Before trying to squeeze every last corner of the country into a two-week itinerary, cast your eyes over the map.

Stick to exploring one section of the country and exploring it well: spend three weeks bouncing between sun-soaked,  Caribbean beaches or heading from Medellín deep into the Zona Cafetera . Your trip should match Colombia’s characteristic pace: slow and enjoyable. 

2. Domestic flights are affordable and quick

If you’re still planning to cram as many places as possible into a short trip, Colombia’s wealth of low-cost airlines offer the most efficient way of getting around (although there's your carbon footprint to consider too).

While nothing quite compares with the cultural experience of taking a regional bus (where you’ll be “entertained” by deafening music for the duration), increasingly cheap fares are available for domestic flights.

Don’t be fooled by headline prices, these typically don’t include checked baggage. Peak traveling seasons (December through mid-January, Semana Santa and June through August) will add a premium and can sell out rapidly, so book flights in advance if visiting during these months.

3. Pack for all weather

Whether you’re hitting the Caribbean coast or heading to the rainier climes of the capital,  Bogotá , you can expect to experience a full array of weather conditions.

While Colombia officially has two distinct seasons – the dry season (December through February and July through August) and the rainy season (April, May, and September through November) – because of the country’s variation in altitudes and ecosystems, you’ll probably experience all four seasons in one trip.

As a rule, the Caribbean coast is hot and humid, while Bogotá and the wider Andean regions receive a surfeit of rain. Come prepared with plenty of layers, including a warm, easy-to-pack rain jacket, and you’ll be primed to adapt to whatever the weather might throw at you.

4. A little Spanish will get you a long way

For a country so long enveloped by violent conflict, Colombia today is a remarkably open and welcoming destination for international travelers. Wherever you are, it’s easy to strike up a conversation with the owner of a restaurant, your taxi driver or a local enjoying the sunshine in a city plaza (and they’ll be delighted if you do!).

Knowing more than the basics of Spanish can go a long way, spurring engaging, fascinating conversations about Colombian culture, football, history and politics.

Colombian Spanish, particularly in Bogotá and Medellín, is considered one of the easiest to understand in Latin America because Colombians tend to enunciate their words. Make the most of affordable language schools in both cities to get some practice in before you head out into the rest of the country.

5. There are checkpoints with a strong military presence

When traveling in rural parts of Colombia, it’s not uncommon to come across road checkpoints staffed by army personnel, who’ll often ask to see your documents before waving you on your way.

In areas recently opened to tourism, you might even spot tanks and other military vehicles stationed alongside roads. 

While it might seem intimidating, the strong military presence around the country is there for the safety of the local people – and you. Be polite and have the correct paperwork (either your actual passport or a photocopy of the main page and entry stamp) with you, and you’ll rarely have an issue.

6. Don’t expect punctuality

Like much of Latin America, Colombian culture isn’t known for its strict adherence to the clock, and a punctuality-obsessed traveler is often a disappointed one. “Colombian time” is practically its own time zone, and you should leave any notions of timeliness at home.

To avoid getting frustrated, relax and embrace being flexible – really, the only way to deal with the typically laid-back Colombian attitude toward life, the universe and pretty much everything.

While big, inter-regional buses and flights do tend to leave on time, tight schedules aren't followed in many other contexts. If you’re making an appointment with a Colombian person or waiting for a rural colectivo to depart, bring a book as you may well be waiting up to an hour beyond the agreed time.

7. Drugs and talking about that Netflix show are big no-nos

If there’s one way to annoy Colombians, it’s to get onto a topic that many Western tourists, despite Colombian’s attempts to dissuade them, continue to associate with the country: drugs. Illegal substances are a taboo subject in Colombia, and despite (or more likely, because of) the country’s history, few Colombians take them.

Residents of Medellín, in particular, are fed up with the city’s association with drug cartels and with tourists who go there to use cocaine, which is illegal and could see you getting into a lot of trouble if caught. 

When traveling in Colombia, don’t mention Narcos , either. Colombians are frustrated with the Netflix show’s portrayal of the country and what they see as the exaltation of a mass murderer.

Show some respect and steer clear of the many Pablo Escobar tours, too. Listening to local people's experiences during the drug-war years is likely to be far more informative and accurate.

8. Taxis will help you get around safely

While safety is no longer the same overwhelming concern it once was, taking taxis when traveling between neighborhoods in big cities across Colombia is a sensible choice.

Wandering around at night, particularly after you’ve had a shot of heady aguardiente or two, is often an invitation to opportunist thieves.

Taxis are extremely affordable and relatively painless if using a ride-share app, such as Cabify or Uber . Hailing a taxi can leave you open to scams or worse, so calling for a cab (or asking your hotel to) is recommended. Always confirm the price or check that the taxi has a working meter before entering a vehicle.

9. Bogotá has a well-established gay scene

Homosexuality was decriminalized in Colombia in early 1980s, and the first same-sex marriage ceremony was performed in 2013 – evidence that this country has some of the more progressive attitudes toward LGBTIQ+ rights in Latin America.

Bogotá has a well-established gay scene, with bars and nightlife mostly found in Chapinero, one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods . Some lodgings and restaurants are beginning to advertise themselves as gay-friendly.

Despite its progressive laws, much of Colombian society remains traditionalist, and many same-sex couples still feel unsafe showing affection in public. For more information specifically for LGBTIQ+ travelers, check out Guia Gay Colombia. 

10. Tipping isn’t obligatory, but it is appreciated

Dining out in Colombia is extremely affordable.

When you go to pay the bill at fancier or more upmarket restaurants, it’s likely you’ll be asked if you want to include the propina (tip), typically around 10% of the cost of the meal.

Service in restaurants, cafes and bars across Colombia is generally much better than in many other parts of South America , so unless you had a terrible experience, consider paying the tip to show your appreciation. 

11. Traveling is safe – but stick to the beaten track

Colombia has experienced an about-face in the past few decades, shedding its title as one of Latin America’s most dangerous countries and coming into its own as a worthy travel destination.

It all comes down to the history-making peace accords signed in 2016 between the Colombian government and the FARC, which, after five decades of conflict, have led to many rural parts of the country finally shifting from no-go areas into welcoming places for visitors.

However, it still isn’t wise to go too far off the beaten path. Some rural areas remain dangerous because of their links with neo-paramilitary and drug-trafficking groups, particularly along the borders with Panama, Venezuela and Ecuador.

Before traveling anywhere unusual, always research the situation on the ground as well as your government’s travel advisories.

12. Scams and muggings do happen

While safety has improved significantly, you should always “ no dar papaya .” This delightful idiom – which literally translates to “don’t give papaya” – means you should always keep your wits about you, staying alert to those who would take advantage of you.

In practice, this means following common-sense guidelines: don’t wander down dark, empty streets at night, don’t head out into neighborhoods you don’t know without checking their safety first and don’t flap about the city with an expensive camera or phone on display.

Travel insurance is essential because muggings are, unfortunately still an issue in cities such as Bogota, Cali and Medellín.

You should never resist if someone tries to rob you. Distraction techniques are those used most fruitfully by would-be thieves, so always be wary of people coming up to you in the street or being asked to show your money to scammers posing as police officers.

If things do go wrong, head to the nearest police station immediately to report the crime. The police will put together a report and give you a copy, which you’ll need to make an insurance claim.

13. Don’t let this country’s history scare you away

Colombia has come on leaps and bounds since the dark days of the 1980s and 1990s, and its residents are more than excited to show you their beautiful and wonderfully diverse country.

The biggest mistake you can make is to let Netflix or historic newspaper headlines scare you away: this is a country that just about every traveler can’t help but fall in love with. The biggest danger when visiting Colombia? Finding yourself never wanting to leave.

This article was first published May 14, 2022 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

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Colombia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 2, 2024, colombia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to the country summary.

Reconsider travel due to  crime  and  terrorism . Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.  

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.

U.S. direct-hire government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• They are not permitted to travel by road between most cities.
• Colombia’s land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized.
• They may not use motorcycles.
• They may not hail street taxis or use public buses.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Colombia.

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Avoid protest areas and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Colombia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in some parts.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.

Colombia - Venezuela Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela.

The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally.

U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Colombia Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Ready to embark on a journey to Colombia, a land of lush greenery, rich history, and aromatic coffee? Well, pack your bags (and don't forget that sense of adventure), because we've prepared a go-to guide with all you need to know about traveling to this South American gem. From the best times to visit to those bucket list experiences that make a trip truly unforgettable, we've got you covered.

In this guide:

• The best time to visit
• Top attractions
• Hidden gems to explore
• Bucket list experiences
• Travel tips
• Stay connected with a Colombia eSIM

Best Time to Visit Colombia

Colombia boasts a range of climates due to its topography, with coasts, jungles, and mountains, but the temperature remains fairly consistent year-round in each region. However, the drier periods of December to February and July to August are generally accepted as the best times to visit. Be prepared for varying conditions, though, and remember — rain in Colombia can mean more vibrant landscapes!

Top Attractions in Colombia

Colombia's top attractions are rich in history, culture, and breathtaking nature. Explore these five must-see sights for an unforgettable Colombian experience.

Cartagena is an enchanting blend of colonial charm and Caribbean flair. From the picturesque plazas of its UNESCO-listed Old Town to the serene beaches of Islas del Rosario, Cartagena has plenty to offer.

The best things to do in Cartagena:

• Explore the Old Town:  Dive into the history of Cartagena by wandering through the Old Town. This area, also known as the Historic Center, is renowned for its colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and vibrant street life. It's a must-see for any visitor.
• Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas:  This historic fortress offers a glimpse into Cartagena's colonial past and strategic importance. The castle stands as a landmark of the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Relax on the beaches of Islas del Rosario:  Just a short boat trip from Cartagena, these beautiful Caribbean islands offer white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking up the sun.
• Walk the city walls:  The walls that once defended Cartagena from pirates and invaders now offer a scenic walk with coastal views. Strolling along these fortifications at sunset is a fantastic way to experience the city's charm and history.
• Discover the Mercado de Bazurto:  For those looking to experience authentic Cartagena, the bustling Mercado de Bazurto is a cacophony of sights, sounds, and smells. This local market offers a range of produce, seafood, and local specialties like  arepas  and  empanadas .

Medellín

Once notorious for being one of the most dangerous cities globally, Medellín has transformed into a hotspot of innovation, culture, and tourism. Visit the Comuna 13 neighborhood, explore the abundant public spaces and parks, and ride the city’s impressive metro and cable cars.

The best things to do in Medellín:

• Explore Museo de Antioquia:  Dive into Colombia's rich art history at the Museo de Antioquia, home to an extensive collection of works by Fernando Botero, one of Colombia's most famous artists. The museum, located in a former city hall, showcases not only Botero's iconic chubby figures but also offers a broad spectrum of other artworks capturing Colombia's vibrant culture.
• Ride the Metrocable:  Gain a new perspective on Medellín by taking a ride on the Metrocable. This unique mode of transportation offers stunning aerial views of the city’s comunas (districts) and the Medellín River. It's not only a way to navigate the city but also an attraction in its own right, highlighting the city's commitment to innovative urban solutions.
• Visit Plaza Botero:  Another nod to the celebrated artist Fernando Botero, Plaza Botero is an outdoor park filled with numerous bronze sculptures donated by Botero himself. It's a vibrant space where art and public life intersect, offering a unique chance to experience the scale and texture of Botero's work first-hand.
• Enjoy the Greenery at Parque Arví:  A haven for nature lovers, Parque Arví is a vast park that invites visitors to enjoy a range of outdoor activities amidst lush surroundings. Hike along its trails, engage in bird watching, or browse through the small market of food and crafts. The journey to and from the park over the hills of Medellín is itself an experience, thanks to the spectacular views it offers.
• Visit the Comuna 13 Neighborhood:  Nestled in the heart of Medellin, Colombia, Comuna 13 is a colorful testament to the resilience and artistry of its community. Once an area challenged by urban strife, it has incredibly transformed into a hub of creativity, culture, and connection.

Tayrona National Park

This stunning slice of paradise lies on the Caribbean coast, where the jungle meets the ocean. Offering golden sandy beaches and lush rainforest, the Tayrona National Park is perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.

The best things to do in Tayrona National Park:

• Hike the Pueblito Chairama Trail:  This challenging yet rewarding hike takes you to the ancient ruins of Pueblito, a pre-Hispanic village that was home to the Tayrona tribe. This trail not only offers you a peek into the region's fascinating history, but also serves up some of the most incredible views of the park.
• Relax at Arrecifes Beach:  Known for its striking beauty, Arrecifes Beach is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking. Though the currents here are too strong for swimming, the serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings are sure to captivate you.
• Swim at La Piscina:  Just a short hike from Arrecifes, La Piscina offers a safe haven for swimmers. This natural pool, enclosed by a coral reef, provides calm waters perfect for a relaxing dip.
• Spot diverse wildlife:  Tayrona National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore, and you might spot monkeys, iguanas, and more than 300 species of birds. Remember, always respect their space and admire from a distance.
• Watch the sunsest at Cabo San Juan : End the day at Cabo San Juan by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset over the Caribbean Sea. This spectacular sight, coupled with the location's striking natural beauty, makes it a must-add to your travel itinerary.

The Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero)

Experience Colombia's coffee culture in its heartland. Visit charming towns like Salento, hike through the Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms, and tour coffee plantations to learn how your morning brew is produced.

The best things to do in Eje Cafetero:

• Go on a coffee farm tour:  No trip to the Coffee Region is complete without visiting a coffee farm, where you can see the journey from bean to cup. You'll get to roll up your sleeves, learn the picking process, and, of course, taste some of the freshest coffee on the planet.
• Wander through the Cocora Valley:  Stretch those legs in the stunning Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm (Colombia's national tree). If you're in for a hike, this place is a jackpot of panoramic views.
• Relax in Santa Rosa Thermal Baths:  After all the hiking and coffee excitement, it's time to unwind in the soothing Santa Rosa Thermal Baths. The hot springs are the spa treatment that Mother Nature intended for you. Trust us, the backdrop of waterfalls and lush forest is the cherry on top!
• Ride the Coffee Train (or La "brujita" as the locals call it):  Hop aboard La “brujita,” a quirky rail vehicle that takes you on a scenic adventure through the coffee countryside. It’s far from your average commute, with open-sided cars allowing the cool breeze to complement the view.
• Discover the Quindio Botanical Garden and Butterfly House:  Prepare to be dazzled by the colors and diversity at the Quindio Botanical Garden. With a butterfly house featuring over 1,500 butterflies, it's an enchanting experience.

San Agustín

This archaeological site is home to the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America — a mysterious and haunting landscape that will captivate history buffs.

The best things to do in San Agustín:

• Explore the San Agustin Archaeological Park:
• Step back in time at the San Agustin Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts the largest collection of pre-Columbian megalithic sculptures in South America. These mysterious statues, some standing over 7 meters tall, are scattered around the park and offer a glimpse into the region's ancient cultures.
• Take a walk or horse ride to El Tablon, La Chaquira, La Pelota, and El Purutal:  For an adventure that combines natural beauty with archaeological wonders, a hike or horse ride to these sites is a must. The journey not only provides breathtaking views but also leads you to fascinating statues and relics outside the main park. La Chaquira, in particular, offers beautiful vistas, and the ride there isn't too strenuous, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Visit the Magdalena Strait:  This natural wonder, where the Magdalena River narrows to a mere 2 meters wide, is truly a sight to behold. The powerful currents carving through the rock showcase the raw power of nature. It's a perfect spot for photography or simply to contemplate the natural beauty of San Agustin's landscape.

Hidden Gems

Beyond Colombia’s famous landmarks lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. These five lesser-known spots offer unique adventures off the typical tourist paths.

The Tatacoa Desert

Even many Colombians miss this fascinating desert that offers a unique landscape of towering red and grey formations. It's also Colombia's second-largest arid zone and one of the best places for stargazing.

Often overlooked by international tourists, Barichara is one of Colombia’s prettiest villages. Its cobblestone streets, white-washed buildings, and terracotta roofs play perfect hosts to a lazy afternoon stroll.

Las Lajas Sanctuary

This stunning Gothic church built into the side of a cliff is a sight to behold. It's off the beaten track, but worth the trip for the architectural beauty and the surrounding canyon views.

Pacific Coast

The predominantly Afro-Colombian Pacific Coast is as rich culturally as it is in biodiversity — home to rugged beaches, dense jungle, and some of the best whale watching in the world.

La Candelaria, Bogotá

Roam around the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria, with its charming streets, colorful buildings, and lesser-known museums like Botero’s Museum, packed full of famed Colombian artist Fernando Botero’s distinctive artwork.

Bucket List Experiences

With so much on offer, it can be hard to narrow down the must-do experiences. Here are our top ten, in no particular order:

• Rough it up on a multi-day trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida).
• Enjoy the nightlife and learn to dance salsa in Cali, the world's salsa capital.
• Walk through Bogotá's La Candelaria district with a cup of world-famous Colombian coffee.
• Explore Cartagena’s historic Old Town and San Felipe Castle.
• Go colonial in Villa de Leyva, a town where time seems to stand still.
• Experience Afro-Colombian culture and music in the Pacific port city of Buenaventura.
• Marvel at the River of Five Colors (Caño Cristales).
• Hike to the top of El Penol Rock near Medellín for breathtaking views.
• Visit the Caribbean Island of San Andrés for its crystal-clear waters.
• Feast on  bandeja paisa , a typical mouthwatering Colombian dish.

Colombia Travel Tips

Finally, let’s go over some critical travel tips:

• Entry and exit requirements:  Passport validity for six months is essential for travelers. Most visitors do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days, but double-check before you fly.
• Language:  Spanish is spoken across Colombia. "Hola," "por favor," and "gracias" will go a long way!
• Currency:  The Colombian Peso (COP) is the currency. Cards are widely accepted, but always keep a small amount of cash.
• Getting around:  Major cities have bus and taxi services, and smaller towns are often walkable. Domestic flights can save significant travel time.
• Plugs and adapters:  Colombia uses types A and B sockets. The standard voltage is 110V, and frequency is 60Hz.

Colombia eSIM: Stay Connected With Airalo

Stay connected during your trip to Colombia with an  eSIM from Airalo . An eSIM is a tiny SIM that's embedded in your device and works 100% digitally. You can download an eSIM plan for your destination and instantly connect to a mobile network. There's no need to find a SIM card vendor, manage multiple SIMs, or worry about roaming fees. 

Here are just some of the benefits of using an Airalo eSIM:

• Connect to a mobile network within minutes.
• Choose from flexible  local, regional, and global data plans .
• Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
• Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
• Need more data? Top up in the Airalo app.

You're all set to plan a trip to Colombia! Head to the Airalo store to browse  eSIMs for Colombia  and 200+ countries and regions worldwide.

Alisha is a Canadian expat based in Portugal. She’s an avid traveler and writes about all things travel and tech for Airalo.

Ready to try eSIMs and change the way you stay connected?

Download the Airalo app to purchase, manage, and top up your eSIMs anytime, anywhere!

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Immerse Yourself in Colombia: An Authentic Travel Guide

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Discover Colombia

If you asked someone 30-odd years ago what they knew about Colombia, you’d probably get responses relating to drug cartels, danger and of course Pablo Escobar.

Since then Colombia has moved on dramatically. Just take the constant 10% increase in tourists year on year as an example of how this country has changed for the better.

We’ve created this ultimate guide to Colombia to share with you everything that this diverse country has to offer. Decided that Colombia is somewhere you HAVE to visit? 

Check out our twelve in-depth guides to learn about the best things to do and see in Colombia.

Is Colombia worth visiting?

Colombia is one of the world’s most diverse countrie s, boasting two oceans, the Andes mountain range, cultural and thriving cities, flourishing jungles and with that native wildlife.

Housed across Colombia’s 59 national parks , you’ll find over 10% of the world’s animal species, making it a great country to explore if you love wildlife.

If exploring the wilderness is not what you are after, there’s no need to worry. Colombia has a number of energetic metropolitan cities that offer a great food scene, a number of historical sites and innovation spurred by the entrepreneurship that’s flourishing within the cities.

Destinations like Cartagena boast stunning colonial architecture that tells a story of years ago, transporting you back in time as you wander through its streets.

Throughout Colombia, you’ll come across a number of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities . Whether it be whitewater rafting, hiking, kitesurfing, horse riding, or diving…the list literally goes on and on!

Keep reading: Looking for inspiration on where to stay? Check out our list of 43 best places to stay In Colombia to discover the most unique and best-value accommodations out there.

Is Colombia safe?

Despite Colombia’s huge steps towards change, people are still asking the same question – ‘Is Colombia safe?’

In short, it’s safe to travel to Colombia , but you need to be aware of which places are better to avoid. We’ve put together a devoted blog that delves into travelling safely in Colombia . You can use this resource to help you decide whether Colombia is safe enough for you.

Best destinations in Colombia

Top 3 places to visit in Colombia

Colombia is a diverse country offering lots of different opportunities and adventures depending on where you go.

As hard as it is to pick, here are our top three places to visit in Colombia:

Medellin — an incredible and innovative city

Once home to the famous drug lord, Pablo Escobar, Medellin used to be considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Fast forward to now and Medellin has completely transformed itself into a thriving and innovative cosmopolitan city.

The city is considerably safer with a top-notch transport system via its metro system and cable cars, numerous stunning parks and delicious restaurants.

Another great thing about Medellin, due to its location, temperatures remain warm and pleasant , meaning you can visit all year round. If you are in Medellin, we also recommend taking the 2-hour bus journey from Medellin to Guatape as a day trip.

Cartagena — where the Caribbean and Colombia collide

Situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena boasts some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in all of the Americas.

Once a crown jewel of the Spanish empire, you’ll clearly understand why it’s been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site after a few hours of strolling around Cartagena. The 13 km of ancient walls seemed to have preserved the city, giving you the feeling of going back in time.

Being on the coast, Cartagena isn’t too far from some amazing beaches including Playa Blanca. Inevitably though, this kind of beauty has attracted tourists from all over the world, meaning some of the popular sites and beaches can get very busy! It’s only a 1 to 1.5-hour flight from Bogota to Cartagena .

Tayrona National Park — some of Colombia’s best nature

Tayrona National Park sits in northern Colombia at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta where they meet the Caribbean coast.

The national park is a large protected area perfect for travellers looking to explore some of the best beaches in Colombia or adventure through lagoons to picturesque cloud forests. The beaches offer great places to snorkel, whilst the jungles provide opportunities to hike amongst wildlife such as birds, lizards and monkeys.

It takes around 5 hours from Cartagena to Tayrona National Park , while it’s only 3 hours from Barranquilla and less than an hour from Santa Marta .

When is the best time to visit Colombia?

Due to Colombia’s proximity to the equator, temperatures remain stable throughout most of the year. Temperatures do vary depending on altitude, though. The higher you go, the colder it tends to be.

Here’s a rough guide of the average temperatures depending on altitude:

• < 1000 m –  More than 24°C (Cartagena, Santa Marta, Cali)
• 1000 – 2000 m – ~ 20°C (Medellín, Manizales)
• 2000 – 3000 m – ~ 14°C – (Bogota, Pasto)

Colombia has two seasons, a wet and a dry one. The dry season is between December and March , considered one of the best times to visit Colombia, and the wet season runs from April to June and October to November . July to September can also be a good time to visit because it’s mainly dry, plus it’s whale season!

December to February is the busiest time

However, you won’t be the only person wanting to travel at the best time, so if you chose to visit Colombia between December and February, expect a lot of tourists. With more tourists come higher prices as businesses have the leverage to increase prices.

Travelling outside of these months can save you some money and also provide the opportunity to explore tourist sites without thousands of other tourists.

How to get around in Colombia

Colombia is a huge country with plenty of amazing destinations to explore. Around a third of the country is taken up by the Amazon Jungle where moving around is extremely difficult, but luckily the rest of the country isn’t quite as tricky to navigate.

Here’s a short overview of the main transport options:

When travelling around Colombia, one of your main forms of transport will be its extensive bus network. Long-distance buses tend to be relatively comfortable with reclining seats, air conditioning and toilets.

You’ll be looking for comfort as journeys between the big cities are pretty long . For example, Medellin to Cartagena is 14 hours, and Bogota to Cali is 10 hours.

The main bus companies in Colombia are Expreso Palmira, Bolivariano and Trejos , which also provide good service and easy-to-use websites.

A big tip when travelling by bus in Colombia is to wear warm clothes. We all love a bit of air conditioning, but those buses get seriously cold. Ten hours in arctic temperatures isn’t exactly going to be enjoyable!

Flying in Colombia is a popular option, especially for those short on time or who have a larger budget to play around with.

There are a number of domestic airline providers including the two biggest Avianca and Copa. VivaColombia is also a big player in the airline space and tends to offer the cheapest flights, but watch out for the luggage restrictions.

The majority of the time flights are more expensive than the bus, but it’s worth checking just in case, because the cost-time ratio may be worth it. Do keep in mind that taking a short-haul flight can be up to ten times more polluting than taking a more environmentally-friendly option like the bus.

By colectivo

Colectivos are small minivans or truck-style vehicles that are mainly used for short journeys within a city or between two that are nearby. This form of transportation is predominantly used by locals, meaning they’re usually cheap.

Make sure to agree on the price to your destination before getting in, though. They’re definitely not as comfortable as the bus and don’t have much space for your luggage. Because they don’t have set pick-ups and drop-offs, they can get you closer to where you want to be than the bus.

A big downside though is that they don’t leave until they’re full , so you could be waiting around for a while!

Although renting a car in Colombia isn’t a very popular choice amongst travellers, it doesn’t mean it’s not an option. You’ll need a passport, credit card and international driver’s license in order to rent a car with prices starting from around $17.

Sure, having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own leisure, but do consider that the road quality between some cities isn’t great and Colombians aren’t known to be the most careful drivers. Bus travel is also very convenient, so we would recommend using the available transport.

Colombia doesn’t have a train network , so unfortunately this isn’t an option!

Entry requirements and visa for Colombia

We all love to hear it, travelling to Colombia is relatively stress-free when it comes to immigration and Visas. A large number of countries are able to enter Colombia visa-free for a period of up to 90 days.

This includes countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, New Zealand and those within the European Union, amongst others. These countries are all included in the list of countries that don’t require a Visa .

In addition, all visitors are required to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry, so make sure to renew your passport if it’s going to run out soon.

Proof of exit

Sometimes Colombian border force will ask you for proof of exit from the country in the form of a plane, bus or boat ticket. Other times they won’t. If you don’t want to take your chances but don’t know when you want to leave Colombia, there’s a way around it.

‘Rent’ a plane ticket for $12.  Best Onward Travel  book a real plane ticket for you that is valid for 48 hours. It’s 100% legal and safe.

Must-try food in Colombia

Colombia’s food scene varies depending on which region you’re visiting, meaning if you’re backpacking through Colombia you’ll be treated to a variety of dishes and flavours.

Colombia is a country rich in natural ingredients which you’ll find in their predominantly meat-based dishes and delicious soups.

Of course, we couldn’t write about Colombia and not mention the coffee. Coffee in Colombia boasts a mild, well-balanced flavour that is popular all around the world. Their average annual coffee production is 11.5 million bags, the third highest in the world.

Here are some of our favourite dishes you have to try whilst you’re in Colombia:

• Bandeja Paisa — is the national dish of Colombia. It was originally created to provide peasant workers with enough energy for a hard day’s work. Nowadays it’s a substantial, high-calorie lunchtime meal which is perfect for anyone looking for a challenge. It consists of rice, plantain, arepa (corn cakes), avocado, minced meat, chorizo, black sausage, fried pork rind and then topped with a fried egg. We wish anyone who takes this dish the best of luck!
• Mondongo Soup — you’ll find this dish served in most Colombian restaurants, but the dish may not be for everyone. It consists of diced tripe (typically the stomach of a cow, slow-cooked chicken or beef stock and lots of vegetables. When in Rome as they say!
• Empanadas — are a popular snack throughout both Central and South America. They are typically deep-fried pastries stuffed with a variety of different fillings, from meat with potatoes to vegetarian options. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, you can also find baked versions too. Empanadas are usually super cheap and the perfect snack to tide you over till dinner.

Essential travel tips for Colombia

Here’s a selection of the best tips and pieces of information that may make your trip to Colombia that bit easier:

Paying with Colombian Pesos in Colombia

Colombia uses the Colombian Peso . The last time we checked (June 2023), $1 was equivalent to around 4170 COP.

It’s good to always have some cash on you. Not all establishments take cards. You’ll also need cash for taking the bus, markets and tips too.

In all of the big cities, there will be plenty of ATMs available to withdraw money and in more rural areas, you may have to rely on bank branches instead.

Most ATMs in Colombia charge between 10,000 and 14,000 COP to withdraw money. However, BBVA, Davivienda and Colpatria don’t apply charges to certain cards, so try these ones first.

Buying a sim card in Colombia

There are three main mobile providers in Colombia — Movistar, Tigo and Claro . You’ll be able to find stores for these providers all over Colombia, and in most of the international airports. Claro is the most popular of the three and offers great coverage, speed and packages.

Although it can be tempting to buy a sim card when you first arrive in a country, if you’re on a budget, I would avoid doing this. The sim cards at the airport are often a lot more expensive than buying it in a store in the city. They know that people will pay for convenience!

Colombia’s language cheat sheet

The language spoken in Colombia is Spanish .

It’s always good to know a few essential words before travelling to a place, so here are a few to get you started:

• Hello – Hola
• Thank you – Gracias
• Please – Por favour
• Sorry – Lo siento
• Beer – Cerveza

The perfect packing list for Colombia

For the majority of your time in Colombia, you’ll probably be enjoying warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. Meaning you’ll need cool and light clothes.

However, if you’re venturing to higher altitudes, make sure to bring some warmer clothes, especially for the nighttime. A rain jacket is also a good shout if you’re travelling outside of the dry seasons.

Aside from the essential travel gear, here are some that have become permanent fixtures on our packing list:

• Reusable water bottle – they’re better for the environment and can save you money on water.
• A portable charger – there’s probably going to be a time when your phone’s battery is on red, at a time that you desperately need it.
• An adaptor – Colombia uses plugs A and B, the same as the main plugs used in North and Central America. A universal travel adaptor is a great buy if you’re travelling between different continents.

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Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.

• Explore more
• Barranquilla
• Santa Marta
• Isla Grande
• Tayrona National Park
• Bogota to Cali
• Bogota to Cartagena
• Bogota to Medellin
• Cartagena to Barranquilla
• Medellin to Bogota
• Medellin to Cartagena

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EMBASSY OF COLOMBIA IN THE UNITED STATES

• Jan 6, 2021

Information for travelers to Colombia during the pandemic

Updated: Jun 15, 2021

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs requests that all travelers arriving in Colombia, take into account the following recommendations based on the latest provisions of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection for the gradual reopening of the international air operation.

- Check with your airline the status of your flight

- Remember to comply with the protocols implemented by aeronautical authorities and airlines on the ground, during the flight, and upon arrival

- - Fill out the Check-Mig of Migración Colombia online 48 hours before your flight to facilitate your immigration control

https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/public/preregistro.jsf

COVID-19 negative test is no longer required to enter Colombia.

FOREIGN VISITORS:

Remember to comply with the entry requirements to Colombia and verify if you require a visa depending on the activity you are going to carry out in the country. For more information, please check: https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/tramites_servicios/visa

The immigration control authority reserves the right to decide on the entry and admission of travelers to national territory.

For further Information please visit: https://www.migracioncolombia.gov.co

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The Definitive Guide To Colombia Travel

by Steven Dillon | Oct 11, 2018

Whether you’re planning a trip to Colombia or still making your mind up about visiting, we’ve put together an unbeatable guide to Colombia travel to help you to decide when to go, where to stay and what to do when you get there.

We’ve used our insider knowledge and local experience to cover everything from the best cities, the best towns, included some handcrafted itineraries for short and longer stays, details about the best Colombian festivals, best times to travel and how to stay safe when getting around. Read on or simply download the guide in full now !

About Colombia

Located in the North West of South America, Colombia is one of the most diverse countries on the planet.

With a rich and lustrous landscape –  from snow-capped mountains to pristine exotic beaches – Colombia is brimming with awe inspiring natural wonders, breathtaking views and is absolutely packed with authentic Latino culture.

We think there is no place on earth quite like it.

Until recently though Colombia has unfortunately been a bit of a ‘no go’ destination for travelers, thanks mainly to its long and chequered history of drug cartels, crime and civil war.

However, after the signing of the peace agreement between the Colombia Government and guerrilla group FARC in 2016, Colombia has begun a long awaited transformation (socially, politically and economically) and is now emerging as a ‘must-see’ destination .

Although Colombia does still struggle at times to shake off its shady reputation, it is the resilience of the Colombian people; their warmth, passion and friendliness towards foreigners – not to mention their obsession with salsa and partying – that ultimately makes Colombia THE place to visit.

When you arrive you can expect a warm welcome from the locals who are eager to share their food, culture and coffee.

You’re in for one unforgettable experience.

Colombia Facts

Colombia vs columbia, where is colombia, colombia’s climate:, colombia’s population:, political situation:, getting there:, vaccinations:.

The Best Cities in Colombia

Bogota is Colombia’s capital city and cultural heartbeat. The vibe here is bustling, cosmopolitan, cool and hip, and typical of a big and sprawling city. It’s location in the Andes region of the country means it is set in the valley of large imposing mountains. However, this provides a spectacular and humbling view of the contrast between traditional colonial architecture and modern city skyscrapers and due to its high altitude (8,661 feet) the climate is generally cooler than in most other parts of Colombia. Bogota is quickly gaining a reputation internationally for its thriving art scene, buzzing nightlife, and awesome food (although it’s not such a secret to the locals).

Medellin is a city on the up! Known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ Medellin is a city well worth a visit.

Medellin is probably more famous for being home of drug lord, Pablo Escobar, and its portrayal on the Netflix series Narcos, but there is definitely a lot more to explore in this vibrant city. Most people are surprised and impressed by the clean and modern infrastructure of Medellin. They have highly functional transport systems and a highly innovative metro cable gondola system which connects the city with the poorer neighborhoods up in the mountains. In fact, in 2013, Medellin was named ‘world city of innovation’ due in large part to such projects. The views in Medellin are something to experience.

Nestled deep within the Andes mountains, the mountain ranges appear to tower over most of the city. This also means there are plenty of vantage points to climb for spectacular views of the city below. In spite of Medellin’s undoubted renaissance, it remains a city of contrasts. Impressive modern architecture, leafy residential streets, and trendy restaurants all sit within eyesight of mountains brimming with overpopulated slums. The remnants of Medellin’s darker history.

Find out everything you need to know about Medellin in our ultimate guide with over 58 things to do in Medellin.  

If you’re looking for a slice of tropical paradise, Cartagena is it! Cartagena is a hot, sassy, and an utterly seductive port city set on the golden shores of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Expect high temperatures humidity and an altogether slower pace of life compared with the urban sprawls of Bogota and Medellin. The jewel in Cartagena’s crown is the walled Old Town—an UNESCO world heritage site, full of cobbled streets, quaint plazas and strikingly colorful architecture. Cartagena is the perfect place to go in Colombia for sunshine, cocktails, rest and relaxation—and, of course, to experience the infamous warm and friendly Colombian/Caribbean culture.

The Best Towns in Colombia

Santa fe de antioquia.

3 hours south of Medellin, and giving Gautape a good run for its money as most colorful, and certainly a candidate for the most beautiful town in Colombia, is Jardin. It’s a little bit further from Medellin but absolutely worth the effort. It’s a great little town for just wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere but also great for hikes and visiting coffee plantations .

Vialla de Leyva

This charming Colombian town, located at the epicentre of Colombia’s coffee region , is the perfect base for exploring the nearby Cocora Valley and Los Nevados National Park. The local pace of life is extremely relaxed, the restaurants are famous for their locally sourced freshwater trout and there is a thriving community of craftsmen and artisans as well as remaining one of the region‘s most prolific coffee producers. If you’re heading to this part of Colombia to enjoy the nearby nature then Salento is the perfect place to stay.

10 Things You MUST Do in Colombia

1. SALSA like a local – Colombians are famed for being some of the hottest salsa dancers in the world and much of the best salsa music originates from the country. Don’t just observe from the sidelines, go take a lesson and then head to a bar and get those hips moving!

2. HIKE the magnificent mountains – Colombian is blessed with an abundance of hiking trails which (somehow) don’t get the same attention as some of its neighbours. Andean peaks, snow-capped glaciers, dense jungles, hidden civilisations – the variety is mind-blowing. Make sure you do at least one hike while in Colombia!

3. DEVOUR bandeja Paisa – rice, beans, chicharrón, minced beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, avocado and arepa all one one plate – it’s a beast! Think full English breakfast but better. This is Colombia’s most popular dish and if you really want the full Colombian experience it’s a must. 

4. TRY learning some Spanish – you don’t need to be fluent but a little will go a long way and the locals love it when they see foreigners make the effort. Try to learn the basics before you arrive and why not do some lessons while you’re here?

5. DRINK ‘tragos’ of Aguardiente – literally meaning ‘Fire Water’. It’s the Colombian alcoholic drink of choice and whenever you go to a bar you’ll see that most groups will have a bottle at their table. When in Colombia…!

6. DISCOVER the sounds of Colombia – you’ve probably already heard of Salsa but what about Vallenato, Cumbia, Reggaeton, Merengue, Porro, Champeta or Bachata? Colombia is literally brimming with music so make sure you take the time to experience it all.

7. LEARN about the rich culture and painful history – don’t just see Colombia, go speak to its people, learn about their culture and listen to their stories (hint – not everything is about drugs and Pablo Escobar).

8. VENTURE outside of the cities – Colombia has some of the most amazingly vibrant cities but the real magic lives in the pueblos (towns). Seek them out, slowly wander through, admire the preservation of the ancient customs and interact with the locals. Do this and you will truly start to understand Colombia.

9. SAVOUR the exotic fruits – Colombia is spoiled with an array of exotic fruits that you probably can’t pronounce and have most likely never heard of. Make it your mission to get through each and every one of them (hint: granadilla is worth trying at least twice).

10. GIVE BACK – Colombia is still a developing country and tourism has the potential to be a real positive force within the country. Make your visit count! Spend your money with the local companies, seek out good causes, and spread the word back home about all of the amazing things you experience during your visit.

There’s More…

Here we’ve provided quite a lot of information to help get you started on planning your trip…but it doesn’t end there. We’ve put together an incredibly detailed guide that you can download now and read when you’ve got a bit more time.

This 96 page guide to Colombia Travel is packed with information about getting around, staying safe, Colombian Festivals, public holidays, cultural considerations and 4 incredible hand-picked itineraries for 1, 2 and 2 plus weeks in Colombia that will take you to the best places and most beautiful destinations Colombia has to offer.

If that wasn’t enough, we’ve also included detailed information about Colombian cuisine, the best places in Colombia for natural beauty, the weather by region and even more information about what Colombia has to offer.

Why Download OUR Guide?

We are self-professed obsessives when it comes to Colombia. As a 30-something British / Colombian married couple and founders of Other Way Round, we’re passionate about our mission to share the REAL Colombia. Want to experience Colombia like a local?   Download our guide now ! Did we mention it’s free?

Colombia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Colombia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Forget what you’ve seen on the news or on Netflix: Colombia is a gorgeous, culturally-rich country that is absolutely worth visiting.

As crime rates have decreased in recent years, tourism to Colombia has steadily increased, with more and more travelers singing the praises of this exciting, diverse destination.

There’s a little something for every kind of traveler in Colombia, from outdoor adventurers to history buffs to coffee addicts.

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered.

Colombia is home to several world-class cities that blend historic charm with modern sophistication.

Bogota, the country’s capital, is home to several top museums, a vibrant culture, and delicious food — both on the street and in top restaurants.

Cartagena is a charming Old World city by the sea, featuring a walled colonial historic district that will transport you back in time.

And Medellin , once known for its role in the drug trade, is now home to a thriving art scene with tons of awesome shops and restaurants.

Each city also makes a great home base for day trips to top attractions like Tayrona National Park and Guatape. Read on to learn more.

Colombia’s natural wonders are also absolutely worth exploring. From beautiful beaches to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, there’s much to experience in this beautiful country.

Outside of the city of Leticia, you can embark on a cruise down the Amazon River for the adventure of a lifetime, interacting with some of the area’s unique wildlife (although ideally from a safe distance!).

The country’s Pacific Coast is home to some of the best whale watching in the world from July through November.

Head to Bahia Solano to see humpback whales migrate from the South Pole – it’s a truly incredible sight.

And of course, you can’t miss the beaches of Tayrona National Park , complete with white sand, clear blue waters, and aerial hammocks perfect for relaxing.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Colombia in South America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Colombia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Colombia Map

Use this Colombia travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Amazon Travel

Looking for visit the Amazon from Colombia? Don’t miss:

Anacondas, Piranhas And Pink Dolphins, Oh My!: Exploring The Amazon Jungle From Colombia

Bogota Travel Guide

The following Bogota tourist information can help you plan the perfect trip!

Colombia Travel: Exploring Bogota By Bike

Cartagena Travel Guide

If you’re looking for a Cartagena guide for your trip, check out:

3 Amazing Day Trips From Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia Travel Tips

The following Colombia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip!

Is Colombia Safe? Everything You Need To Know!

10 Ways Colombia Stole My Heart

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Colombia

Medellin Travel Guide

Looking for a Medellin city guide ? These posts can help!

Colombia Adventure: Paragliding In Medellin (Epic!)

3 Amazing Day Trips From Medellin, Colombia

El Peñol & Guatape: The Perfect Day Trip From Medellin

Santa Marta Travel Guide

The following travel guides can help you plan an epic trip to Santa Marta in Colombia !

Experiencing The World’s Best Hostel In Santa Marta, Colombia

Tayrona National Park

Looking to experience Colombia travel and adventure ? Don’t miss Tayrona National Park!

How To Visit Tayrona National Park (& Have An Amazing Time!)

Traveling In South America

These guides share Colombia travel advice as well as tips for exploring South America in general!

14 Essential Tips For Backpacking South America

My Most Ridiculous Bus Encounters Backpacking South America

Is South America Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

21 Best Places For Solo Travel In South America

20 Best Beach Destinations For Solo Female Travelers

Best Colombia Tours

Explore local culture with a Colombian tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Full-Day Rosario Islands Including Barú, Cholon and Playa Blanca from Cartagena
• Freedom Tour of Palenque in Cartagena
• Lodotherapy in the Totumo Volcano with Visit to Galerazamba from Cartagena
• Full-Day Guatavita and Salt Cathedral from Bogota
• Full-Day Guatapé (Pueblo de Zocalos) & Piedra del Peño lfrom Medellín
• The Dark Days: Pablo Escobar and The New Medellin Tour
• Medellin ATV Tour

Colombia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Colombia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Colombia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Colombia tour. When visiting Colombia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Colombia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Colombia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Colombia .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Colombia?

One of the most popular places to visit in Colombia is the country’s Caribbean coast. Aside from gorgeous beaches, this area has tons to offer travelers looking for some sun-soaked adventures.

Cartagena , one of the largest cities in the area, sits right on the coast and blends Old World charm with the exciting vibe of a modern, beachfront city. Here you can explore one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America, full of gorgeous churches and bright-colored buildings that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Not far from the city is Tayrona National Park , where you can lounge on the idyllic beaches or trek through the lush jungle.

You can also take a day trip to El Tutomo Volcano , located just an hour from Cartegena. Take a dip in the mud baths and emerge with incredibly soft skin and hair (as well as a few new friends!). For a little extra R&R, book a mud massage or mud wash!

Located in Central Colombia, the city of Medellin has quickly become a top spot for travelers. Featuring gorgeous colonial architecture, beautiful parks, and a trendy art scene, Medellin has much to offer every kind of traveler.

One of the city’s top attractions is the Plaza Botero , a park dedicated to artist Fernando Botero, featuring 23 of the artist’s sculptures in the open air. You can see more of his work, as well as three floors worth of Colombian art, at the Museum of Antioquia .

Want to see some of the best views of Medellin? Hop on the Medellin Metrocable , a cablecar line offering amazing panoramic views of the city.

You can also take a stroll through the trendy neighborhood of El Poblado and search for the best cup of coffee in the city.

For a great day trip , head to Guatape , a small town featuring a 740-step monolith that you can climb for incredible views of the surrounding area. The town is also a top spot for outdoor adventurers, with opportunities for kayaking, hiking, swimming, and more.

Not far from Medellin is Bogota , the capital of Colombia. Featuring colorful street art and colonial architecture, the city is the perfect spot for a bike tour . This is a great way to get to know the city and its culture, as you’ll wander through colorful markets, stop to play traditional games, and get to know a bit about the country’s tumultuous history.

In the city’s historic center, La Candelaria , you’ll find attractions like the Gold Museum , an entire museum dedicated to the history, art, and pursuit of one of the most sought-after metals in the world.

At the National Museum of Colombia , you’ll find over 20,000 objects and artifacts that tell the story of the country’s rich history.

And for some incredible views of the city, climb up to the church at Monserrate , Bogota’s tallest mountain.

Q: Is Colombia expensive for tourists?

Colombia is a fairly inexpensive destination. You can easily find inexpensive accommodation, food, and transportation options throughout the country, particularly if you avoid more tourist-heavy areas.

The average traveler spends about $36 USD per day in Colombia on accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

Q: What is the best way to travel around Colombia?

Air travel is considered the best way to get around Colombia. Colombia is a fairly large country so you can save a ton of time traveling between cities by plane.

Domestic flights are also pretty inexpensive, sometimes only a little more than a bus ticket on the same route. Check out low-cost carriers like Viva Air that often offer great deals on flights; if you’re traveling from the U.S., Viva even offers flights from Miami!

Buses are also a great way to get around, particularly if you’re traveling somewhere off the beaten path, as you’ll find routes servicing almost every town in the country.

While buses are ubiquitous in Colombia, they are not always the most relaxing way to travel. Bus drivers have been known to blast music throughout the bus or crank up the sound on whatever movie they’re showing.

You also may have to get off the bus mid-journey for at a military checkpoint and could be subject to a security inspection. If you opt for the bus, don’t expect to sleep through the trip.

Q: Is Colombia safe for travel?

Colombia can get a bad rap when it comes to safety but it has come a long way in recent years. Violent crimes like muggings and kidnappings have decreased significantly and while petty theft does happen, it’s no reason to avoid the country altogether.

It’s a good idea to stay somewhere with 24-hour security so that you have someone to turn to if something goes wrong. You’ll also want to heed the usual advice for avoiding petty theft abroad — don’t show any signs of obvious wealth, keep your phone and any other valuables out of sight and in a safe place to avoid pickpockets , and always be aware of your surroundings.

This is also a place where you don’t want to go out alone at night, particularly if you’re a solo female traveler . If you’re out late, get an Uber back to your accommodation or walk back in a group.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Colombia?

One thing to know before going to Colombia is that only about 4% of the country’s population speaks English. It’s definitely a good idea to learn the language or at least a few Spanish phrases before your trip so that you can communicate with the locals.

At the very least, make sure you have a good translator app on your phone so that you’re not stuck at shops and restaurants. Learning a few phrases in the native language also shows a level of respect for the culture of the country you’re visiting. Time to get that Duoling streak back up!

Once you get to Colombia, you’ll quickly learn that cash is king in this country. Some higher-end shops and hotels will take credit cards but in most cases, you’ll need cash.

The flip side of this is that it’s not exactly safe to carry a lot of cash with you in Colombia. If there’s a lockbox or safe at your accommodation, keep some cash there and just carry as much as you need for the day.

Note, too, that more remote destinations like Tayrona National Park do not have any ATMs, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough cash for the duration of your stay before you head out.

It’s also important to look where you’re going in Colombia. This probably seems pretty obvious but it’s a particularly important tip here.

The sidewalks and roads in Colombia are known to have large cracks and holes that can make it easy to trip and fall. Move carefully (particularly at night!) and watch out for any loose bricks, uneven pavement, or cracks that could send you to the doctor.

Q: How many days should you spend in Colombia?

Most experts suggest spending about 10 days in Colombia to really maximize your time in the country.

There’s a lot to see in Colombia and a 10-day trip will allow you to spend a little time in most of the country’s top destinations while giving you ample time to travel from place to place.

Q: What is the best month to visit Colombia?

While the weather in Colombia varies from place to place, the country is widely considered a year-round destination.

December through March is considered Colombia’s high season, with much of the country experiencing pleasant, sunny weather.

December and January are the country’s busiest months for tourism, so if you’re planning on visiting during these months be sure to book your travel and accommodations far in advance.

September through November is technically Colombia’s low season, but the weather is generally pretty dry. These months are definitely worth considering if you want to avoid the crowds and save a little money on travel expenses.

Q: Do I need a Colombia travel visa?

Travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, European Union, and Australia do not need a visa to enter Colombia. Travelers from most South American nations including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela simply need a national ID to enter the country and can leave their passports at home.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Colombia International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Colombia Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Colombia.

Q: Where is Colombia?

Colombia is located in northwestern South America. It shares borders with Panama (northwest), Venezuela and Brazil (east), and Peru and Ecuador (south).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Colombia?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are typically accepted in big cities and tourist areas. That being said, Colombia is a country where many places are cash-only, so make sure to always have some on you.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Colombia?

The tap water is generally safe to drink in most places in Colombia as long as your destination isn’t too remote. That being said, it’s recommended to check with your hotel to be sure.

Q: What is the local currency in Colombia?

The local currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Colombia travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: September 9, 2024 16:04 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, colombia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Colombia due to high levels of crime.

Border areas - Avoid all travel

• Caquetá, excluding the city of Florencia
• Cauca, excluding the city of Popayan
• Chocó, excluding the towns of:
• Bahía Solano
• Capurganá
• Nuquí
• within 50 km of the border with Venezuela, excluding the city of Cúcuta
• within 100 km of the border with Panama
• within 50 km of the border with Ecuador, excluding the border crossing at Ipiales
• Norte de Santander, excluding the city of Cúcuta
• the Port of Tumaco and the city of Buenaventura

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Jardín
• Córdoba, south and west of the city of Montería
• city of Cúcuta
• city of Florencia
• city of Ipiales and Ipiales border crossing
• city of Popayan
• Guainía
• Caño Cristales
• city of Villavicencio
• Nariño, excluding the city of Pasto
• Vaupés

If you intend to travel to any of the above excluded areas, do so by air.

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Dating applications

Online dating applications.

There has been an increase in deaths related to online dating applications used by criminals to identify and lure foreigners looking to meet people in Colombia.

Incidents occur most frequently in larger cities, including but not limited to:

Online dating applications are often used by criminals to identify and lure foreigners travelling alone and looking to meet local people. Victims often build virtual relationships and attend multiple dates with the same person, often in public places. Once trust is established, the victim is drugged with scopolamine or another incapacitating drug and is robbed and/or kidnapped. Drugging of victims has led to overdose and death.

If you are in Colombia:

• be cautious if using online dating apps
• avoid meetings in isolated locations
• don’t bring new acquaintances to your accommodations
• inform a family member or friend of your plans, including details of with whom and where your date is

Crime rates are high throughout the country, particularly in the main cities. In some cases, extreme violence leading to death has occurred.

Violent crime

Muggings and assaults occur even in the safer areas of Colombia’s cities. These incidents can turn violent. Firearms and other weapons are common in Colombia. Armed robberies are frequent and may occur in:

• restaurants
• shopping malls

Criminals won’t hesitate to use weapons on victims who refuse to co-operate.

• Avoid walking alone in isolated or deserted areas
• Avoid travelling alone after dark
• Dress down and avoid wearing jewellery or watches
• Keep cell phones, cameras and other electronic equipment out of sight
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use ATMs inside banks, shopping malls and other public locations during business hours only
• If you're robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse and cell phone snatching, is common in all parts of the country. Drive-by snatching by thieves on motorcycles occurs regularly. They occur in both impoverished and wealthier parts of the country.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Stay in reputable accommodations with good security
• Keep windows and doors locked at all times

Scopolamine and other incapacitating drugs

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates victims leaving them disoriented and unable to make clear decisions for 24 hours or more. Once the victim is incapacitated, they are vulnerable to crime, including:

• express-kidnapping

Overdoes have also been reported.

Criminals often target those travelling alone and may put drugs into a variety of items, including: 

• food and drinks
• hand sanitizer
• women’s make-up

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis
• on the street

Criminals often work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security. Incidents occur most frequently in larger cities, including but not limited to:

• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, cigarettes or anything else from new acquaintances or someone in the street

Vulnerable neighborhoods

Vulnerable neighborhoods (commonly known as “comunas”), are characterized by informal housing developments, crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and/or irregular construction.

Gang-related violence and organized crime are prevalent in these areas and police assistance is very limited.

Avoid renting accommodations in vulnerable neighborhoods, and travelling to these areas, even on a guided tour.

There is a risk of kidnapping for ransom in Colombia.

Armed groups may target foreigners in all parts of the country, especially those who work for oil and mining companies. Business travellers and Canadian companies establishing operations in Colombia should take enhanced security measures to protect both personnel and company assets.

Choose living accommodations that have significant security measures in place and modern office facilities.

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings are frequent and often occur in affluent areas, as well as in tourist areas. Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

There is a threat of domestic terrorism. Terrorist groups are active in some parts of the country, often using explosives during periodic attacks.

Further attacks are likely. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• military and police stations and vehicles
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• infrastructure, including roads and energy facilities
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• civic holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Illegal armed groups

Illegal armed groups pose a major risk to travellers. These groups carry out violent attacks, such as bombings, and finance themselves through extortions and kidnappings. Attacks often result in casualties.

• Remain on well-travelled roads and paths when visiting remote locations
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs frequently. Card overcharging also happens, especially in popular tourist areas, where scammers target tourists by charging them elevated prices for services, food and drink. Ask for a printed price list before ordering.

When using debit or credit card:

• don’t accept assistance from strangers
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Fraudulent police officers

Individuals posing as police officers have approached foreigners to verify their documents or foreign currency with the intent to rob them.

If you face this situation:

• don’t hand over your money or documents unless you feel threatened
• request to provide your documents or currency at the nearest police station, your hotel or another public place

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and strikes take place regularly throughout Colombia, especially in large cities.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Ayahuasca ceremonies

Spiritual cleansing and ayahuasca ceremonies, offered by shamans and other individuals, have led to serious illness, injury, assault and even the deaths of several tourists.

Ceremonies involve consuming substances that can cause medical complications and severely impair cognitive and physical abilities. They often take place in remote areas with no access to medical or mental health facilities or resources. Often, there is no access to communications with local authorities or emergency services. Facilities generally lack basic first aid or emergency plans to help those suffering from physical or psychological illness during these ceremonies.

Ayahuasca ceremonies are not regulated and individuals offering them are not licensed. There is no way to assess the safety of any of the services, the operators or the shamans.

Avoid participating in spiritual cleansing or ayahuasca ceremonies.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault, including rape, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas.

• Always remain vigilant
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Keep your hotel doors and windows locked
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers

If you are a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you may report it immediately to the nearest Canadian office.

Advice for women travellers

Water safety

Some beaches are unsupervised.  Many beaches do not have warning flags to alert of unsafe conditions. Lifeguard services do not always meet Canadian standards.  Tidal changes can cause powerful currents, and riptides are common.

• Respect the areas reserved for swimming
• Monitor weather conditions
• Avoid beaches and coastal areas if the weather forecast is poor
• Do not dive in unfamiliar waters as hidden rocks or shallow water can cause serious injury or death
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas

Recreational boating

Due to unlicensed tour boats not meeting safety standards, boating accidents have occurred, including in:

• San Andrés
• Santa Marta

If you are planning to go boating:

• choose a reputable boating company
• ensure that your tour operator follows up-to-date safety regulations
• don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities can be dangerous if unprepared, such as:

• white water rafting
• scuba diving
• snorkelling
• mountain biking

If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities: 

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if hiking alone
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out   
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity  
• monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards
• ensure that you have proper equipment and bring sufficient water

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country, due to:

• road signs that are difficult to see or non-existent
• lack of lighting and guard rails
• livestock on the roadside in rural areas
• pedestrians walking on the street

Road conditions

Driving conditions may be particularly hazardous during the rainy seasons, from April to May and from October to November.

Road habits

Drivers are extremely aggressive and reckless. They often speed and are frequently distracted and ignore traffic controls.

Motorcycles are common and are often involved in traffic accidents.

Pedestrians don’t have the right of way, including at stop signs.

When travelling by car in Colombia:

• avoid driving at night
• avoid driving on secondary roads as they are often targeted by criminals
• don’t pick up hitchhikers
• keep your doors locked and windows closed at all times
• always place all belongings under your seat
• carry a cell phone
• park your car in a guarded parking lot when in a city

Local authorities may deny you entry to certain areas due to emerging security threats. Military checkpoints outside cities are common.

Strikes occur often in Colombia and associated roadblocks on major transit routes may cause significant travel disruptions.

Unauthorized roadblocks and bandits also pose a threat.

If you’re planning to travel by land in Colombia:

• dial 767 from your cell phone to receive advice on current road closures from the Colombian Highway Police information line (in Spanish)
• never hitchhike
• consult local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Public transportation

You should avoid public transportation.

Buses and coaches

City and rural buses are frequent targets for theft. Incidents of passengers being drugged and robbed have occurred.

• Don’t accept snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances
• Avoid storing bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat  

Express kidnappings and assaults often occur in unlicensed taxis.

• Only use reputable taxi companies through establishments such as hotels or a ride-sharing app

If you have no choice but to hail a taxi on the street:

• avoid taxis without licence plates
• never enter a taxi if it already has a passenger
• note the licence plate number and name of the driver when you travel and immediately communicate this information to family or friends

El Dorado International Airport in Bogota allows only authorized taxis to pick up passengers at its terminals. 

Arrange pickup in advance with your travel agency or hotel.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Colombian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Colombia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business or work visa: required Student visa: required

Electronic Immigration Form  

You must complete a free electronic immigration form (Check-Mig) within 72 hours to 1 hour before:

• boarding a flight to or from Colombia
• entering into Colombia via land, maritime or river crossings 

You will need the following information to complete the form:

• flight details
• a valid passport
• a valid email address
• the address where you will be staying in Colombia
• a phone number

Electronic Immigration Form  – Colombia Migration Agency

As of November 14, 2023, you must pay an entry fee equivalent to $85 CAD in Colombian Pesos upon arrival in Colombia. The payment must be made by credit card only upon entering the country during the immigration control process. There could be significant delays in making the payment, which could disrupt your travel plans.

You don't have to pay this entry fee if:

• your destination is the archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina
• you have a valid Colombian visa
• you are less than 14 years of age or more than 79 years old
• you are a member of the crew of international transport means (conditions apply)

Failure to pay the entry fee could prohibit you from entering the country.

Entry fee for Canadian travellers starts on Nov 14, 2023  – Migration Colombia (in Spanish)

Entry stamp

You must obtain an entry stamp in your passport when you enter Colombia by land.

You may be fined if you fail to obtain an entry stamp

Length of stay for tourists

The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter Colombia. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay up to 90 days.

You will be fined if you overstay the specified period on your entry stamp. You may apply for a stay extension at the nearest Colombian migration office. You may extend your stay up to a maximum of 180 days per calendar year. The final decision remains with the immigration authority.

Colombia migration  - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina

If you plan to visit the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina, you must purchase a tourist card at the airport prior to  your arrival.

You must also show this card before you depart the island.

Drug screening

Colombia employs strict screening measures at its international airports to detect narcotics smuggling.

Customs officials may:

• search you and your luggage
• fingerprint you
• require you to undergo an X-ray inspection upon arrival or departure

Most airport customs inspectors speak only Spanish.

Ecuador entry restrictions

If you enter Ecuador from Colombia through land or river borders, you must present a criminal record check from your country of origin or residence. The original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members are generally exempt.

If you cannot provide a criminal record check, the Ecuadorian Migration System will check to verify that you don’t have previous convictions.

Authentication of documents

Dual citizenship

Canadian citizens who also hold Colombian citizenship must enter and exit Colombia using the following documents:

• Colombian passport
• Colombian identification card

Although local immigration authorities will allow dual citizens to enter without Colombian documents, they will stamp their foreign passport indicating that they must leave using Colombian documents.

• Children and travel

Exit requirements for dual citizen children

Whether travelling to a domestic or international destination, underage Canadian-Colombian dual citizens must present:

If under 18 and travelling alone or accompanied by a single parent

• an authorization to travel from both parents, written in Spanish and notarized at a local notary public or at a Colombian embassy or consulate abroad; and
• a Colombian birth certificate, notarized at a local notary public, or a long-form Canadian birth certificate and its official Spanish translation

If one of the parents does not comply with child support obligations, his/her authorization can be waived. For this, the parent must be registered at the Colombian Child Support Debtors (REDAM).

If under 18 and travelling with both parents

• a Colombian birth certificate notarized at a local notary public; or
• a long-form Canadian birth certificate showing the parents' names, and its official Spanish translation.
• Authorization to travel for minors  - Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs  - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)
• Colombian child support debtors - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 9 September, 2024
• Oropouche fever in the Americas - 3 September, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited but is available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Private clinics offer emergency services. They typically require advance payment in cash or by credit card.

If you don’t have proof of travel insurance, you may be transferred to a public hospital, where medical care may not meet Canadian standards.

Doctors mostly speak Spanish.

Emergency and ambulance services are widely available. Response times may be slow in rural areas. 

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have died or had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries in Colombia. 

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility
• language barriers
• travel insurance coverage

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Colombian health authorities
• Check the credentials of the healthcare provider with the Ministry of Health
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure

If a doctor is not registered and duly qualified by the Ministry of Health or the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery, you should doubt their credibility. 

• Human resources registration platform – Ministry of Health (in Spanish)
• List of surgeons - Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery (in Spanish)
• Travelling outside Canada to receive medical care

Some prescription medication may not be available in Colombia.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Altitude sickness

Bogotá is located at 2600 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for breaking the law in Colombia can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. No transfer of offenders’ treaty exists between Canada and Colombia. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Colombia. You may also have to remain in Colombia for a parole period following your release.

Detention conditions may be below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Colombia
• Arrest and detention

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common practice among money launderers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It’s illegal to import firearms into Colombia.

Conviction may result in lengthy prison sentences.

Political activities

It’s illegal for foreigners to participate in local political activities, rallies or public demonstrations in Colombia.

Political involvement may result in your deportation.

It’s illegal to export certain cultural artifacts with historical value from Colombia, such as:

• original paintings

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Colombia.

Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Colombian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Colombia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Colombia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Colombia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Colombia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Colombian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Colombia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry photo identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa or residence permit in a safe place, in case they’re lost or confiscated

You must carry a valid Canadian driver’s license. Your driver’s license will be accepted within your permitted length of stay.

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene 
• if there are injuries, don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive
• if there are no injuries, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid fines

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt under Colombian law.

However, some accidents may attract a crowd that could turn hostile. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• leave the area
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

To get married in Colombia, you must provide several documents including:

• your birth certificate
• a copy of your passport
• your decree absolute certificate if divorced
• a death certificate for your spouse and a marriage certificate if widowed

All documents must be translated into Spanish and apostilized. Consult the Embassy of Colombia in Canada if you wish to marry in Colombia.

You cannot get married at a Canadian embassy or consulate in a foreign country, including Colombia. Canadian consular officials do not perform marriage ceremonies and are not required to attend your marriage.

Marriage outside Canada

The currency in Colombia is the peso (COP).

You can easily exchange Canadian dollars for pesos in currency exchange bureaus.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. In rural areas, ATMs may be limited in availability.

Colombia is subject to various natural disasters such as:

• forest fires
• earthquakes
• extreme heat
• torrential rains

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Colombia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

El Niño

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years and can last 9 months to 2 years.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels and plan accordingly
• Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans 

Learn about  El Niño

Seismic activity

There are several active and potentially active volcanoes throughout Colombia.

Debris from erupting volcanoes may clog rivers and cause them to overflow, which could in turn cause flash floods and landslides. Ash clouds may also cause disruptions to domestic and international flights.

Earthquakes

Colombia is located in an active seismic area. Earthquakes occur frequently. Dangerous landslides can also occur, even after minor earthquakes.

• Colombian Geological Service  – Colombia’s government (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes  – U.S. Geological Survey
• Earthquakes - What to Do?

Rainy seasons

Colombia’s rainy seasons usually occur from March to June and from September to November. Incidents of flooding and mudslides can occur, especially in rural areas.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Local services

For emergency assistance, dial 123.

For non-urgent matters, you can reach the National Police by email at [email protected] .

Consular assistance

Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Venezuela

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Colombia, in Bogotá, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Climate
• 4.2 Terrain
• 4.3 History
• 4.4 Visitor information
• 6.1.1 Extending your stay
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.4 By boat
• 6.5.1 From Venezuela
• 6.5.2 From Ecuador
• 6.5.3 From Panama
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.2 By train
• 7.5 By urban bus
• 7.6 By metro
• 7.7 By taxi
• 7.8 By cable car
• 10.1.1 ATMs
• 10.2.1 Typical prices
• 10.3 Tipping
• 10.4 Shopping
• 11.1 Sweets
• 13.1 Motels vs hotels
• 14.1 Learn Spanish
• 14.2 Learn Salsa
• 17.1 Landmines
• 17.2 Paramilitaries
• 17.3 Kidnappings
• 17.4 Guerrillas
• 18 Stay healthy
• 19.1 Gay and lesbian travelers
• 20.1.1 Carriers
• 20.1.2 Dialling
• 20.3 Internet cafés

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Colombia occupies the northwest corner of South America. It has an area twice that of France, with long coasts on the Caribbean and the Pacific Oceans, mountainous regions, and Amazon jungle areas inland. The ethnic groups and cultures are diverse.

Pick a climate, and it's yours—if you find the light jacket weather of Bogotá cold, drive an hour down through the mountains and sunbathe next to the pool of your rented hacienda. If you don't want to sit still, head off into the Amazon or any of the country's other many inland jungles, snow-capped volcanoes, rocky deserts, endless plains, lush valleys, coffee plantations, mountain lakes, deserted beaches.

For culture, intellectual Bogotá might lead the rest of Latin America in experimental theater, indie-rock, and the number of bookstores, but you could also get a completely alien education in an Amazonian malocca , or you could delve into the huge Latin music scene of salsa and cumbia, with the most exciting dance display being the enormous Carnival of Barranquilla .

For history, wander the narrow streets of South America 's original capital in Bogotá, check out old Spanish colonial provincial retreats like Villa de Leyva , trek through the thick jungle-covered mountains of the northeast to the Lost City of the Tayrona Indians, and walk the walls of Cartagena 's achingly beautiful old city, looking over the fortified ramparts upon which the colonial history of South America pivoted.

For nightlife, hot Cali is today's world capital of salsa, claiming that competitive distinction over Colombia's other vibrant big-city party scenes, which keep the music going long into the small hours of the morning. The hipsters' playground is found around the El Poblado neighbourhood in Medellín downtown.

For dining, you'll find everything from the ubiquitous cheap, delicious Colombian home-style meals to world-class upscale and modern culinary arts in the big cities, with cuisines from all corners of the world represented.

And for relaxing, there are gorgeous tropical beaches along Colombia's Caribbean and Pacific coasts, but you can find even more laidback and peaceful retreats on the idyllic and unspoilt Caribbean island of Providencia .

The political violence has subsided substantially throughout the majority of the country and savvy travelers have already flocked here from around the world—come before everyone else catches on!

• 4.60971 -74.08175 1 Bogotá — the capital, a cosmopolitan city 3 km (two miles) high, with some eight million people sprawling outwards from Andean mountains, where you'll find excellent museums, world-class dining, and most everything one wants from a big city.
• 10.983333 -74.801944 2 Barranquilla — the Gold Port and fourth largest city in the nation isn't necessarily that exciting most of the year, but its carnival is the second biggest in the world after Rio de Janeiro 's, and is an amazing cultural experience and one hell of a party!
• 3.44 -76.519722 3 Cali — Colombia's third largest city, renowned as the salsa capital of Latin America .
• 10.423611 -75.525278 4 Cartagena — the Heroic City, Capital of the Bolívar department, is Colombia's tourist city par excellence. The colonial architecture and the skyscrapers can be seen together in this city that offers a unique experience of festivals, historic attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
• 5.066111 -75.484722 5 Manizales — the center of the Zona Cafetera offers the opportunity to visit Los Nevados National Park and to live the coffee plantation experience.
• 6.244747 -75.574828 6 Medellín — the City of Eternal Spring and capital of the Antioquia department is famous for having a large textile industry, which produces top-quality clothing that is sent all over the world. It's also the birthplace of master painter Fernando Botero, so it houses the great majority of his works.
• 4.814278 -75.694558 7 Pereira — the lovely city, capital of the Risaralda department, and major city of the coffee region – modern, commercial, and touristic. The famous "naked Bolívar" monument and the Matecaña Zoo are here. Very near to Santa Rosa hot water springs and the National Park of "Los Nevados".
• 2.454167 -76.609167 8 Popayán — this beautiful, white-washed city is Colombia's religious center. Home to the second largest Easter festival in the world (after Seville, Spain), this town has contributed more Colombian presidents than any other. Bordered by the Puracé National Park and gateway to the archeological sites of San Agustín and Tierra Dentro in nearby Huilla.
• 11.236111 -74.201667 9 Santa Marta — a popular base for adventure tourism in the beautiful areas surrounding, and unique in the sense that it offers you beautiful beaches one day, and the next one a walk to the foothill of a snowy mountain, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest in the country.

Other destinations

• -3.483333 -70.2 1 Amacayacu National Park — Far, far from civilization in the Amazon rainforest, a huge national park explorable via boat, full of strange monkey-infested islands and pink dolphins.
• 5.024722 -74.001389 2 Catedral de Sal — A colossal church built underground in a former salt mine, with passages lined with exquisite sculptures, and a radiant cross rising over the altar of the cavernous nave.

• 11.037997 -73.925192 3 Ciudad Perdida de Teyuni — A pre-Columbian city located in the Colombian jungle close to Santa Marta . Built between the eighth and the fourteenth century by the Tayrona Indians. Nowadays only stone circular shaped terraces covered by jungle remain.
• 10.175 -75.75 4 Corales del Rosario — a scenic archipelago a short boat journey from Cartagena.
• 2.971389 -78.184444 5 Isla Gorgona — This former prison island in the Pacific Ocean is now a nature reserve open for visitors. There is abundant wildlife like monkeys, snakes, whales and sea turtles. It offers excellent diving conditions.
• 4.8 -75.366667 6 Los Nevados National Park — Colombia's high altitude volcano park offers great trekking.
• 13.348889 -81.374722 7 Providencia — an idyllic, remote Caribbean Island found halfway towards Jamaica. With the Western hemisphere's second largest barrier reef, beautiful Providencia Island has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• 1.879167 -76.268333 8 San Agustín and Tierradentro — Archeological sites in south-western Colombia.
• 11.283333 -74.183333 9 Tayrona National Park — Some of the loveliest coastline in all of South America .

Colombia is the only country in South America with coastlines on both the North Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and it has the second-most biodiversity in the world. Lying to the south of Panama , Colombia controls the land access between Central and South America. With Panama to the north, Colombia is surrounded by Venezuela to the east, Brazil to the southeast, and Ecuador and Peru to the south west. The country was named in honor of Christopher Columbus , following the Italian version of his name (Cristoforo Colombo). Although Columbus never set foot on the current Colombian territory, in his fourth voyage he visited Panama, which was part of Colombia until 1903.

Traveling in Colombia is definitely worthwhile. From Bogotá, with a temperate climate 2,600   m (8,530   ft) above sea level and at a constant temperature of 19°C, a drive of one or two hours north, south, east or west can take you to landscapes which are as diverse as they are beautiful. To historic city centres and towns, modern and energetic party cities, oriental plains which stretch out far beyond the horizon with little modulation. rugged contours of the higher Andean region, the Guajira peninsula and its desert, idyllic beaches, the tropical jungle of the Amazon and the Choco with abundant flora and fauna, snowy peaks and volcanoes, ancient ruins, the Magdalena River valley and its hot weather, beautiful coral reefs and an abundant underwater marine life together with pleasant relaxed tropical islands, and the ability to rest and relax in a privately rented hacienda that lets you have and enjoy these treasures to yourself. Such a diversity comes with equally diverse traditions and foods. Colombia is one of the equatorial countries of the world, but unique in its extreme topography and abundance of water and has something for everyone.

Take your pick, really. Colombia is an equatorial country with amazing variance in altitude, so it's going to be whatever temperature you like best all year long somewhere! The climate is tropical along the coast, eastern plains, and Amazon; cold in the highlands with periodic droughts. Lacking the usual seasons, Colombians normally refer to rainy seasons as winter—but the differences in terrain and altitude mean the rainy seasons are different in every corner of the country!

The one downside to all this climactic diversity, though, is that you'll have to bring a fair amount of different clothes if you plan to travel extensively. Cities in the center like Bogotá and those to the north in Boyacá can potentially reach temperatures below 0°C, so bring a coat. Some mountains are also covered in snow year-long. Cities along the Caribbean coast like Cartagena , Barranquilla , and Santa Marta are hot and humid, while some cities at mid-altitude in the Andes like Medellín (the City of Eternal Spring), Manizales , and other cities in the Coffee Triangle region always have beautiful temperate weather.

Flat coastal lowlands, central highlands, high Andes Mountains, eastern lowland plains

Natural hazards : highlands subject to volcanic eruptions; occasional earthquakes. A volcanic disaster occurred in Armero, 1985. 25,000 people were buried by lahars (volcanic mudflows) that the Nevado del Ruiz produced.

Highest point : Pico Cristobal Colon 5,775   m (18,950   ft) of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The mountain is part of the world's highest coastal range. Nearby Pico Simon Bolivar has the same elevation

Colombia was inhabited by numerous, major indigenous cultures like the Muisca, the Tayrona and the Quimbaya; some groups of indigenous people as the Caribs lived in a state of permanent war, but others had less bellicose attitudes. The area that now is Colombia was conquered by the Spanish through alliances with some indigenous groups when America was 'discovered' by Europeans. The process of conquest and colonization radically altered the social structures of the areas, the indigenous populations shrank dramatically in size and their share of the population has declined ever since. The Spanish Empire brought European settlers and African slaves, while most of the population in the colony was of mixed Spanish and Indigenous ancestry. The Spanish empire brought slaves to their colonies largely using the 'asiento' system, licensing merchants from many slave trading nations to transport slaves.

Independence from Spain was won in 1819 as part of the "Gran Colombia" Federation, but by 1830 the federation was dissolved. It was one of the five countries liberated by Simón Bolívar (the others being Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru and Bolivia). The success of the independence movements across Latin America was made easier by the Napoleonic Wars that left mainland Spain with two rival governments. What is now Colombia and Panama emerged as the Republic of New Granada. The new nation experimented with federalism as the Granadine Confederation (1858), and then the United States of Colombia (1863), before the Republic of Colombia was declared in 1886. The United States of America's intentions to control the Panama Canal led to Panama becoming a separate nation in 1903.

Colombia was the first constitutional government in South America. Slavery was abolished in the country in 1851. The years following independence were marked by several civil wars, the legacy of these conflicts combined with state repression against leftist militias in rural areas and world polarization caused by the Cold War culminated in a communist insurgent campaign in 1964 by the FARC and the ELN to overthrow the Colombian Government. The years during the conflict were marked by heavy fighting between the communist guerrillas, the Colombian state and military, right-wing paramilitaries and several drug cartels. In the years following 2005 the safety has been improving throughout the country. As part of a difficult peace process the AUC (right-wing paramilitaries) as a formal organization had ceased to function, and in 2012 the government and the FARC started peace talks aiming at bringing the 50-year-old Civil War to an end once and for all. Colombia is in recovery with a rapidly improving economy. Ending the conflict, wealth inequality and rebuilding the nation are some of the issues that confront the country. In October 2016, President Santos was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in bringing the country's five decades of civil war to an end.

Visitor information

• Colombia Travel website

The official language of Colombia is Spanish . Some indigenous tribes in rural areas continue to speak their own languages, though almost all people from those tribes will be bilingual in their own language and Spanish.

If you've recently learned Spanish, it’s a relief to know that the Bogotá dialect is clear and easy to understand. The Spanish does vary, however, from Cartagena to Bogotá to Cali. Generally the Spanish on the coasts is spoken more rapidly, and Spanish from Medellín has its own idiosyncrasies. In cities like Medellín and Cali, the dialect of Spanish is the voseo form. Meaning that instead of the second person familiar pronoun tú , vos is used instead. Though tú is also understood by everybody, vos is a more friendly voice while tú is reserved for intimate circles. The Spanish spoken along the Caribbean coast is similar to the dialects spoken in Cuba , Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic .

Quite a few Colombians know at least a few basic phrases in English, because English is taught at school, and Hollywood movies tend to be in English with Spanish subtitles. For the most part, however, you should definitely invest in learning the basics of Spanish since you will encounter plenty of situations where no-one will speak any English.

Colombians from more affluent backgrounds will be more likely to have learned English, and the majority of high-ranking professionals, executives and high-ranking government officials in Colombia speak a decent level of English. An English-based creole similar to Jamaican patois is spoken by the Jamaican diaspora in the Caribbean archipelago of San Andrés and Providencia .

Passport holders of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Colombia when the purpose of the visit is tourism for up to 90 days (unless otherwise noted): Andorra , Argentina , Australia , Austria , Azerbaijan , Bahamas , Barbados , Belgium , Belize , Bhutan , Bolivia , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil , Brunei , Bulgaria , Canada , Chile , Costa Rica , Croatia , Cyprus , Czech Republic , Denmark , Dominica , Dominican Republic , Ecuador , El Salvador , Estonia , Fiji , Finland , France , Georgia , Germany , Greece , Grenada , Guatemala , Guyana , Honduras , Hong Kong (180 days), Hungary , Iceland , Indonesia , Ireland , Israel , Italy , Jamaica , Japan , Kazakhstan , Republic of Korea , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Malta , Marshall Islands , Mexico , Micronesia , Monaco , Mongolia , Montenegro , Netherlands , New Zealand , Norway , Palau , Panama , Papua New Guinea , Paraguay , Peru , Philippines , Poland , Portugal , Qatar , Romania , Russia , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Samoa , San Marino , Serbia , Singapore , Slovakia , Slovenia , Solomon Islands , Spain , Suriname , Sweden , Switzerland , Taiwan , Trinidad and Tobago , Turkey , United Arab Emirates , United Kingdom , United States of America , Uruguay , Vatican City and Venezuela .

Citizens of the following countries can enter with their National ID card: Argentina , Bolivia , Brazil , Chile , Ecuador , Paraguay , Peru , Uruguay and Venezuela .

Colombian authorities will stamp passports from the above countries giving permission to stay for a maximum of 30 to 90 days. Immigration officials at any of the international airports of the country will usually ask you the intended length of your trip, giving you a determinate number of days that will cover it, which you can extend to 90 by going to any immigration services office.

Extending your stay

You can apply for a 90-day extension to your stay at an Asuntos Migratorios office in some of the major cities, which costs around US$40. You need two copies of your passport's main page, two copies of the page with the entrance stamp, two copies of a ticket en route out of the country, and four photographs. The procedure takes some time and includes taking your fingerprints. For visitors, the maximum length of stay can not exceed 6 months in 1 year.

There are regular international flights into major cities including Bogotá , Medellín , Cali , Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cartagena, Pereira and San Andrés Islands as well as to other smaller cities in the borders with Venezuela, Ecuador, Panamá and Brazil.

There are daily direct flights to and from the U.S, Canada, México, Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, France, and South America.

Medellín is the only Colombian city served by 2 airports: International and long-range domestic flights go to José María Córdova International Airport ( MDE   IATA ) while regional and some other domestic flights arrive in Olaya Herrera airport ( EOH   IATA ).

Bogotá has two airport terminals: Puente Aéreo and El Dorado. Outside the airport, be aware of enterprising men who will help you lift your bags into a taxi or car, and then expect payment. It is best to politely refuse all offers of help unless from a taxi driver you are about to hire.

Taxis are regulated, reasonably priced and safe from the airports. A taxi ride from the airport to the central business district in Bogotá, takes approximately 20 minutes.

• Enter from Venezuela by the San Cristóbal - Cúcuta or Maracaibo - Maicao pass.
• Enter from Ecuador by the Tulcán - Ipiales (Rumichaca) pass.
• Important: There are no major roads coming from 3 neighboring countries: Panamá, Brazil and Perú. There are no roads at all from Panamá, and there are tiny roads between Colombia and Perú or Brazil, but they do not lead to major cities or regions.

Enter from Panama by sailboat. Sailboats depart regularly from Portobelo , Panama, on 5 night trips to Cartagena , Colombia. 3 days of which are spent exploring the San Blas island paradise. Prices range from $550 to $700 with the most reputable boats being booked out in advance direct online.

Enter from Panama by the Puerto Obaldia - Capurganá pass. From Capurganá , another boat ride takes you to Turbo , where buses take you to Medellín and Montería.

If you enter from Brazil , there are weekly boats from Manaus to Tabatinga / Leticia through the Amazon River. It takes around six days to go from Manaus and just three days to come back (the reason of the difference is the current of the river). There are also weekly motorboats which are more expensive, but cover the route in less than two days. Once in Leticia you have daily domestic flights to several cities, including Bogotá .

A fair number of cruise ships pay day visits (usually at Cartagena), especially during cooler months in North America.

From Venezuela

Connections can be made from the Caracas main terminal to most cities in Colombia. From the main terminal, Maracaibo (Venezuela) you can find buses that run to the cities (Cartagena, Baranquilla, Santa Marta) on the coast. The border at Maicao provides a relatively easy, straightforward entry into Colombia from Venezuela.

You can also enter from Venezuela via the busy San Cristóbal to Cúcuta route, which passes through the border town of San Antonio del Táchira .

The border can be a bit of a hassle or even dangerous, especially in the night time. Ask locals.

From Ecuador

It is very straightforward to enter Colombia from Ecuador. Travel to Tulcán, where you can get a taxi to the border. Get your exit stamps from the immigration offices and take another taxi to Ipiales. From there you can travel further to Cali, Bogotá, and so on.

From Panama

You can't cross from Panama to Colombia by bus—the Darien Gap begins at Yaviza, where the Interamericana runs out. Consider using the boat crossing instead. There are often yachts that will shuttle you between Colombia and Panama and offer a stop in the gorgeous San Blas islands.

Airlines with flights between the two countries are Avianca, COPA, and LAN.

Owing in part to the absence of intercity rail and the high mountains separating many of the major cities, air travel is popular and widespread among those who can afford it and competition is fierce. Bogotá-Medellin was the 30th busiest passenger air route in 2018 with almost four million passengers flown and there is no indication of travel on that 239 km route shifting to other modes any time soon. The most important domestic carriers in Colombia are:

• Avianca (main Colombian national airline)
• Wingo a 'low fare' subsidiary brand of COPA Colombia operating as a separate brand (formerly AeroRepublica).
• LATAM Colombia (formerly LAN Colombia and Aires)
• Clic (formerly Easy Fly) (regional airline around Medellín, Bogotá and Bucaramanga)
• Satena (Servicio Aéreo a Territorios Nacionales) operated by the Colombian Air Force to provide transport to remote regions of Los Llanos, Amazona & the Pacific coast from Bogotá.

They all have well-kept fleets and regular service to major towns and cities in Colombia. The online payment process of some domestic airlines is complicated. Payments can be done at the airport or official ticket offices.

The Metro in Medellín and its surroundings is the closest thing to a passenger train in Colombia. There are no intercity trains in the country. There are, however, plans to change that and the mayor of Bogotá for the 2020-2023 term ran her campaign on a platform of "Metro, Metro and more Metro" and construction for both a metro and a regional tram-train is already underway.

Driving is on the right hand side of the road-most cars have standard transmissions. Colombia's fleet is composed mainly of cars with 4-cylinder engines that are of European and Japanese manufacture.

Foreign visitors may drive if they show an international driver's license (a multilingual endorsement card issued by automobile and driver's clubs around the world).

Insurance is cheap and mandatory.

The speed limit in residential areas is 30   km/h (19   mph), and in urban areas it is 60   km/h (37   mph). There is a national speed limit of 80   km/h (50   mph).

The country has a well-maintained network of roads that connect all major cities in the Andean areas, and the ones in the Caribbean Coast. There are often landslides on roads and highways during the rainy season (November to February). Smaller landslides may reduce roads to one lane, causing significant tailbacks; larger landslides may entirely a road to traffic for days. There are many toll crossings; the fee is about US$3.00. There are also plenty of dirt roads of variable quality. International land travel is only possible to Ecuador and Venezuela.

Travel by bus is widespread and has different levels of quality. Long-distance trips rarely cost over US$55 (one way). When acquiring tickets for the bus, the local custom is that the passenger comes to the terminal and buys a ticket for the next available bus going to the desired destination. Depending on the company or terminal, it may even impossible to purchase a ticket more than a few hours in advance! Therefore, it is recommendable to know at least when a particular service starts and ends in a day. Long distance bus travel tends to be very slow because main highways are two-lane roads with lots of truck traffic. Many routes wind high in the mountains (3,000 m+) and travel sickness may combine with altitude sickness. For any distance more than 5 hours, you may want to check into air travel.

Some of the major companies that offers routes to the north of Bogotá and Medellin to the Caribbean coast and the areas in between the two cities:

• Expreso Brasilia , toll-free: +1 8000 51 8001 . From Tigo and Movistar phones call #501 or #502 ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Copetran , ☏ +57 7 644-81-67 (Bucaramanga) , toll-free: +1 8000 114 164 . #567 or #568 from Claro cell phones ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Berlinas del Fonce . Travels between Bogotá, Bucaramanga, Cartagena, Cúcuta, Santa Marta and points in between ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Rapido Ochoa , ☏ +57 4 444-88-88 . Travels from Medellin and Bogotá to Arboletes, Barracajermeca, Monteria, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Tolu and points in between in multiple route combinations ( updated Jul 2015 )

Other companies that go to multiple cities and towns in the southern part of the country, south of Bogotá and Medellin and the areas between two cities; and down towards the Ecuadorian border:

• Expreso Bolivariano , ☏ +57 1 424-90-90 (Bogotá number) . Offers extensive routes from Bogotá and Medellin to Manizales, Armenia, Medellin, Calia, Ipiales, Popayan and to other places south. They also offer international service down into Peru. ( updated Jul 2015 )
• [ dead link ] Expreso Palmira , ☏ +57 321 890-35-97 (from cell phone) , toll-free: +1 8000 936-662 . ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Fronteras - Continental Bus . ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Coomotor . ( updated Jul 2015 )

There are numerous other bus companies and drivers' unions throughout the country that operate more locally at varying distances of a particular city or town or within a department or between adjacent departments. See or contribute to those articles of particular locality as to what is available. In the Amazonas, Los Llanos and in the remote parts of the southern regions towards Leticia and the Pacific coast the roads are limited to none, so are the bus services. In addition some of these remote areas especially those near the borders with Venezuela, Panama and Ecuador; Amazon rainforest in the southeast and towards the Pacific Coast may still be unsafe to travel to and around due to ongoing guerrilla activity. Inquire locally before going.

For finding intercity bus connections you can use RedBus.co or the according app. As of Sept 2021, it's good for finding intercity bus companies that serve a route and a price estimation. Even though the actual displayed departure times may be not correct.

By urban bus

Around the turn of this century urban centers in Colombia saw the development of a highly efficient and neat bus transit systems that are spreading to other countries. In Bogotá you can find the Transmilenio , in Medellín el Metroplus , in Cali el Mio , in Barranquilla Transmetro , in Bucaramanga Metrolínea , in Pereira the Megabús .

It is still recommended that you keep an eye on your belongings and that you do not carry valuables, excess cash (more than COP$20,000 visible) or unnecessary items. Never accept food or drinks from strangers. Avoid talking to strangers at bus stops or terminals. It is possible you may be stopped at police check points. A calm attitude is the best key to avoid inconveniences.

The only metro system of Colombia is in Medellín , in the Department (state) of Antioquia. It connects the outlying suburban towns with the barrios of Medellín - Line A departs from La Estrella to Barrio Niquía, Line B from Barrio San Antonio to Barrio San Javíer. The metro system also has two cable car lines: Metrocable Line K from Barrio Acevedo to Barrio Santo Domingo Savio and Metrocable Line J departing from Barrio San Javier. Riding the cable cars is a unique experience, as passengers travel up the mountains in gondolas. The MetroCable has six stations and an extension to the Parque Arví ecopark. Ride to Parque Arvi costs about US$4 (COP$3500). There, after a 20-minutes trip in the gondola carts you reach an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level.

The taxi networks in big cities such as Bogotá are extensive. The prices vary a lot between cities, Bogotá for example being relatively inexpensive while Cartagena pricey. A (bright yellow) taxi journey across Bogotá, can take up to a day but cost less than US$15.

If you order a taxi by phone the company will then give you the taxi registration number. Then the taxi will be waiting at the given address. You may need to give them a three or four digit code given to you when you book the taxi. During the day some taxi ranks outside hotels, office buildings and government offices will only allow certified drivers and companies and will also take your name and details when you board the taxi. Taxis from city to city are easy to arrange by phoning ahead and agreeing the price, it will still be cheap by western standards and is safe and quite agreeable.

The meter in all taxis starts at COP$25, and then increases over distance. The number it arrives at corresponds to a tariff that will be on display on the front seat of the cab. Taxi and bus prices increase on Sundays, public holidays, early in the morning and late at night. There are also extra charges for baggage and for booking in advance by telephone.

Unlike many other countries it is not customary to tip the taxi driver. It's up to the individual.

Many taxis are not allowed to travel outside of Bogotá due to boundary restrictions with their licences. You should always make arrangements to travel outside of Bogotá by taxi ahead of time.

In some locations (Las Aguas in the Candelaria district of Bogotá for example) you may find an individual acting as a tout for taxi drivers - they will offer you a taxi and lead you to a particular cab. They then receive a small tip from the driver.

It has become very common, in big cities, to use apps to hail cabs. Tappsi and EasyTaxi seem to be quite popular. Uber service is available in Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín.

By cable car

Since most of the Colombian population lives in the Andes, cable car systems are becoming popular for both commuting and tourist transportation. You can ride the ones in Manizales and Medellín, which are integrated in the Metro system, and the ones in rural small towns of Antioquia : Jardín , Jericó, Sopetrán and San Andrés de Cuerquia. Also enjoy the magnificent view of the new cable car above the Chicamocha river canyon in Santander .

Much of Colombia is in the Andes, which means there is very beautiful mountainous scenery to be found. On the other hand, there are also nice beaches to be found in the lowlands. The altitude of some peaks mean that snow can be seen even though they lie in the tropics.

Football (soccer) is Colombia's national sport, and Colombia's national team is one of the stronger ones in the world, having produced several world-class players such as Carlos Valderrama, Iván Córdoba and James Rodríguez. Matches against Argentina in particular tend to draw a lot of attention from the locals.

Domestically, the top tier of Colombia's football league system is the Categoría Primera A , and Colombians also take their domestic rivalries very seriously.

There are a lot of things to do in Colombia, and you can find parties and celebrations wherever you go. Colombians especially love to dance, and if you don't know how, they'll happily teach you. Colombia is known for its exciting night life.

There are many groups and agencies offering eco-tourism and it is very usual to find trekking plans (locally named 'caminatas' or 'excursiones') on weekend; many groups (named 'caminantes') offers cheaper one day excursion, special trips (on long weekends or during periods of vacation time (January, Holy Week, July, August, October, December) to different places in the country. Some recommended groups based out of Bogotá are: Viajar y Vivir, Fundación Sal Si Puedes, Caminantes del Retorno; there are many other. Patianchos in Medellín; Rastros in Bucaramanga. They usually offer guidance and transportation to the place; on long trips include lodging and other services. The recommendation is asking if the guide has the official certification.

The currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso , but the symbol you will encounter is $ (ISO code: COP ). Wikivoyage uses the notation " COP$ " for clarity.

Coins of Colombia are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 pesos. Banknotes of Colombia are issued in denominations of 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 pesos.

Most banks and money changes will accept major world currencies such as the U.S. dollar and the euro.

ATMs are widely available, with varying withdrawal limits (as of June 2024, unless otherwise noted):

• Citibank - COP$1,000,000 w/ extra fees
• Scotiabank Colpatria - COP$900,000
• Bancolombia - COP$600,000
• BBVA - COP$300,000
• Davivienda - COP$2,700,000 (Feb 2024)

The fee for withdrawing money, at the ATMs of BBVA are COP20.150, Davivienda COP15.000, Scotiabank/Colpatria COP25.900. Sometimes the withdrawal receipt shows a commission, but it is not charged on your bank account. Fees of other banks are:

• Banco Caja Social – COP$18,000
• Banco de Bogota – COP$25,800
• Banco Servibanca – COP$22,500
• Banco Itau – COP$18,000
• Bancolombia – COP$26,900

If you are withdrawing from a non-Colombian bank, some ATMs will ask if you wish to accept the bank's exchange rate for your currency. If its exchange rate is less favorable that your own bank's conversion rate, you may reject its rate so your own bank can calculate the exchange.

If there is no price tag, ask for the price first . The simple question is "¿Cuánto cuesta?" and is easily understood by Colombians.

Typical prices

A modest, clean (and occasionally charming) hotel is US$20-25. A very good rated hostel with shared bed rooms is usually US$5-10. A meal (often including soup and drink) in a local simple restaurant is for US$2.50-4. A nice meal in an upper mid-range restaurant has a price tag of about US$15. For two beers it's US$0.60-1.00 at "tiendas" or similar stores, US$1.5-3 at bars. An air conditioned intercity bus for 100   km is about US$6 (cheaper per km for longer trips, more for dirt roads). Urban transport costs US$0.50-0.90. All stated prices are as of November 2021.

A service charge of 10% is generally added to the bill in nice restaurants (if it's not, you should add it yourself). Tipping taxi drivers is not common. Most "tipping" is merely rounding up to the nearest thousand pesos (e.g., rounding up your cafe bill to COP$7,000 from COP$6,700). Private tour guides do not need to be tipped, but it is common to do so, if you liked the guide.

In some restaurants and bars that include the tip ( la propina ) in the bill, this extra money often does not make it into the hands of the staff person who serves you. Instead, it is simply kept by the owners. With this in mind, many Colombians will pay the bill without the tip (in cash or with credit card) and then hand a cash tip to the staff member (waiter, bartender, etc.) who served them.

The Colombian textile industry is well-recognized and reputable around South America and Europe. Clothing, including lingerie is particularly well-regarded as high quality and very affordable. Leather garments, shoes and accessories are also of interest to foreigners. The best place to buy either is Medellín, known for being the fashion capital of the country, where one can buy very high quality goods at a very low cost.

Colombian emeralds and gold (18k) jewelry can also be very attractive for visitors. A typical Colombian style of jewelry is a copy of precolombian jewelry, which is fabricated with gold, silver and semi-precious stones.

The "mochila", the Spanish word for "backpack" or "rucksack", is also a traditional, indigenous, hand-woven Colombian bag, normally worn over the shoulder. They are commonly sold in shopping malls, especially in the Santa Marta/El Rodadero area. Mochilas usually come in three sizes - a large one to carry bigger things, a medium one to carry personal belongings, and a small one to carry coca leaves. Coca leaves are carried by local tribe members to reduce hunger, increase energy and to combat altitude sickness.

Handicrafts such as intricately designed jewelry are commonly sold in markets and on street corners. Many street vendors will approach people, selling T-shirts, shorts, glasses, bracelets, watches, necklaces, souvenirs, and novelty photographs. If you want to buy something, this is a good time to exercise your bargaining skills. Usually you can go down by COP$2,000-3,000, however 10%-15% is the generally accepted rule. For example, if someone is selling a shirt for COP$10,000, try asking if you can pay COP$8,000. Go from there.

If you don't want to buy anything, a simple gracias, ("thank you") and a non-committal wave of your hand will deter would-be sellers.

Pre-Columbian civilizations cultivated about 200 varieties of potatoes, and they remain popular today. Try the local preparations like papas saladas (salted potatoes) or papas chorriadas (stewed potatoes). Most meals feature some kind of meat with rice, potatoes, and avocados. In the coastal areas, the rice is usually flavored with coconut.

Both restaurants and family meals often feature soup, and, in the mountain areas, you may even be served a milk-based soup called changua for breakfast.

Compared to nearby countries, Colombian food is not nearly as spicy as Mexican food. Fruit juice is particularly popular. Some foods with the same name are quite different. For example, empanadas , made with potato and meat with a pouch-like yellow exterior, are delicious and entirely different from their Mexican and Argentinian counterparts.

In many areas of Colombia, it is common to have buñuelos (deep fried corn flour balls with cheese in the dough) and arepas (rather thick corn tortillas, often made with cheese and served with butter) with scrambled eggs for breakfast. Bogotá and the central region have its own breakfast delicacy of tamales : maize and chopped pork or chicken with vegetables and eggs, steamed in plantain leaves, often served with homemade hot chocolate.

For lunch, especially on Sundays, you should try a sancocho de gallina (rich chicken soup, served with part of the chicken itself, rice and vegetables or salad). Sancocho is widespread throughout the country, with countless regional variants. On the coast it features fish, and is highly recommended. Another soup, served in Bogotá and the periphery, is Ajiaco (chicken soup made with three different kinds of potato, vegetables and herbs ( guasca ), served with rice, avocado, corn, milk cream and capers).

Bandeja paisa was almost the official national dish of Colombia. However, the tourism industry pushes it as such. The name translates roughly as "the peasant's plate". This filling dish includes rice, beans, fried plantain, arepa (corn bread), fried egg, chorizo sausage, chicharrón (pork crackling) with the meat still attached. It's a very fatty dish, but you can leave what you don't like, and if you're lucky enough, you could find a gourmet bandeja paisa in a good restaurant in Bogotá or Medellín . They are lighter and smaller.

In Colombia there are a great variety of tamales but they are very different from their most famous Mexican cousins. They differ from region to region, but all of them are delicious. Envueltos are the sweet tamales made of corn.

There are a few chain restaurants in the country. In addition to worldwide franchises (McDonald's, Subway, T.G.I.F., which are specially focused on Bogotá and other big cities), Colombian chains are very strong and located in almost every city. Presto and especially El Corral serve outstanding burgers, Kokoriko makes broiled chicken, and Frisby specializes in roasted chicken. Gokela is the first choice among people wanting healthy options such as wraps, salads, super foods, supplements, and subsequently one of the only options for vegetarians, vegans and organic eaters. Crêpes and Waffles, as the name indicates, is an upscale breakfast/brunch restaurant with spectacular crêpes, waffles, and ice cream. There are many international restaurants, including rodizios (Brazilian steak house style), and paella houses.

Organic food is a current trend in big cities, but in little towns you can get fruits and veggies all very natural and fresh. Colombians aren't used to storing food for the winter, since there are no seasons in the traditional sense. So don't ask them for dried items like dried tomatoes or fruits. All you have to do is go shopping at the little grocery stores nearby and pick up the freshest of the harvest of the month (almost everything is available and fresh all year). As for pickles and related preserved food, you can find them in supermarkets, but they are not common in family households.

Bread and pastry is easily available from a neighborhood bakeries. Pastry is prevalent, both salty and sweet, including pandebono , pan de yuca , pastel gloria , and roscon . These vary in quality—ask the locals for the best niche places to indulge.

Colombians are famous for having a sweet tooth, so you are going to find a lot of desserts and local candies like bocadillo made of guayaba (guava fruit), or the most famous milk-based arequipe (similar to its Argentinian cousin dulce leche or the French confiteure du lait ). That just covers the basics, since every region in Colombia has its own fruits, local products, and therefore its own range of sweet products. If you are a lover of rare candies, you could get artisan-made candies in the little towns near Bogotá and Tunja.

A great variety of tropical fruits can be tasted, and the corresponding variety in juices, from some of the oddest ones you can find around the globe (really) to the sweetest ones. Some examples of those exotic fruits include: tamarinds, mangoes, guanabanas, lulo, mangostines (really great and rare even for Colombians), and a great variety in citrus. In addition, you can find some of those rich and strange flavors in prepared food like ice cream brands or restaurant juices. Fruit juice is a very common and popular drink. Most of Colombians drink juices at home and in restaurants. They are inexpensive and natural everywhere.

Regarding coffee, you can find a lot of products that are both made commercially and homemade from this very famous Colombian product, like wines, cookies, candies, milk-based desserts like arequipe , ice-cream, etc.

The tres leches cake is not to be missed. A sponge cake soaked in milk, covered in whipped cream, then served with condensed milk, it is for the serious dairy fiend only. Another delicious milk-based dessert is leche asada , a milk custard similar to the better-known flan .

For breakfast, take a home-made hot drink. The choices normally include coffee, hot chocolate or agua de panela . The latter is a drink prepared with panela (dried cane juice), sometimes with cinnamon and cloves, which gives it a special taste. Coffee is usually taken with a lot of milk. In Bogotá and the region around, it's customary to use cheese along with the drink, in a way that small pieces of cheese are put into the cup and then after they are melt, you can use a spoon to pick them up and eat it like a soup. It is the same way to drink hot chocolate.

Colombia's national alcoholic beverage, Aguardiente (a.k.a. guaro ), tastes strongly of anise, and is typically bought by the bottle or half bottle or a quarter. People usually drink it in shots. Each region has its own aguardiente, "Antioqueño" (from Antioquia), "Cristal" (from Caldas), "Quindiano" (from Quindío ), "Blanco del Valle" (from Valle del Cauca) and "Nectar" (from Cundinamarca). There is also a variety of rum beverages, like "Ron Santa Fe" (also from Cundinamarca), "Ron Medellín Añejo" (also from Antioquia), "Ron Viejo de Caldas" (also from Caldas) among others.

The water is drinkable right from the tap in most of the major cities, but be prepared to buy some bottles if you go to the countryside. Agua Manantial Bottled water is recommended, it comes from a natural spring near Bogotá. An advice, make sure you do not use ice cubes, or drink any beverage that might contain non distilled water, ask if the beverage is made with tap or bottled/boiled water.

If you are lucky enough, and if you are staying in a familiar "finca cafetera" (coffee farm) you can ask your Colombian friends not only for the selected coffee (quality export) but for the remaining coffee that the farmers leave to their own use. This is manually picked, washed, toasted in rustic brick stoves and manually ground. It has the most exquisite and rare flavor and aroma ever found.

In Bogotá and the rest of the country, black filter coffee is referred to as "tinto" - confusing if you were expecting red wine.

Also, you can find specialized places where you can drink coffee with many different combinations (like Juan Valdés Café or Oma), hot or frozen preparations.

Commercially, you can find a lot of products made out of coffee too like wines, ice-creams, soda-pops and other beverages.

In Colombia you can find a range of options, bed and breakfast conditioned to western standards and hostels to five-star hotels. There are also apartments that rent per day.

Motels vs hotels

A quick word of caution; in Colombia a "motel" is not the same as what one normally finds in the United States. The term motel in Latin America usually refers to a place of accommodation where the rooms are rented on a short term basis, typically for romantic assignations. Hotels, by contrast, are places of accommodation for travelers and are typically family friendly. Many hotels will not permit persons who are not registered as guests to go beyond the reception area. This is for the safety of both the guests and hotel staff and also to protect the hotel's reputation in what is still a culturally conservative and Catholic country. So visitors looking for a place to enjoy the physical company of another, will often use motels. Also privacy is something of a premium in Colombia, with children often living at home until they are married. For this and other practical reasons, couples, even married couples desiring a little intimacy, sometimes rent a room at a motel. These motels are common in Colombia and do not carry the social stigma that used to be associated with so called "no tell motels" in the United States or Canada. The quality and price of motel accommodations varies, sometimes drastically, with most being clean and well kept. Rooms are engaged anonymously with the tariff and any associated charges usually being paid on a cash only basis.

Colombia education is generally strict and is kept to high standards. Many Colombian issued degrees are recognized globally. A typical Bachelor's degree program in Colombia is 160 credits or 5 years long. You can find several programs in different universities around the country.

Learn Spanish

Colombian Spanish is considered by many around the world as the purest in Latin America and there are many universities and language schools that have Spanish programs.

Learn Salsa

Colombia is one of the mother countries of Salsa and you will be able to listen to this music all over the place. In the last years several of the Salsa World Champions came from Colombia. Especially in Cali and Cartagena there are plenty of clubs and schools.

If you want to work for a national company, such as Bancolombia/Conavi, Avianca, or Presto, you must be able to speak Spanish with near-native fluency. Depending on your qualifications, companies may offer Spanish lessons, however always make sure that you are indeed eligible for the position advertised. You can teach English for extra money, especially in smaller cities where the demand for it is high. Also you could work for a non-governmental organization.

If eligible, you can extend your visa or visa-free stay online . You fill out the form, upload the required documents and pay after you get an e-mail that your application was pre-approved. The whole process can be done online.

The 90 day visa-free stay can be extended for another 90 days. It's free for EU citizens and citizens of Ecuador, otherwise COP$125,000 (August 2024). If you want to stay (almost) 180 days in one piece in Colombia, check if you need to wait 180 days after it to re-enter Colombia visa-free or with a visa.

For example for picking up a foreigner ID card, the migration offices are in charge.

Colombia has suffered from a terrible reputation as a dangerous and violent country but the situation has improved dramatically since the 1980s and 1990s. Colombia is on the path to recovery, and Colombians are very proud of the progress they have made. These days, Colombia is generally safe to visit, with the violent crime rate being lower than that in Mexico or Brazil, as long as you avoid poorer areas of the cities at night, and do not venture off the main road into the jungle where guerrillas are likely to be hiding.

The security situation varies greatly around the country. The Travel Risk Map covers Colombia and shows the current safety levels throughout the country. Most jungle regions are not safe to visit, but the area around Leticia is very safe, and the areas around Santa Marta are OK. No one should visit the Darien Gap at the border with Panama (in the north of Chocó ), Putumayo or Caquetá , which are very dangerous, active conflict zones. Other departments with significant rural violence include the Atlantic departments of Chocó , Cauca , and Valle del Cauca ; eastern Meta , Vichada , and Arauca in the east ; and all Amazonian departments except for Amazonas . That's not to say that these departments are totally off-limits — just be sure you are either traveling with locals who know the area or sticking to cities and tourist destinations. In general, if you stick to the main roads between major cities and do not wander off into remote parts of the jungle, you are unlikely to run into trouble, and you are much more likely to encounter a Colombian army checkpoint than an illegal guerrilla roadblock.

Colombia is one of the most mine-affected countries in the world. So don't walk around blithely through the countryside without consulting locals. Land mines are found in 31 out of Colombia's 32 departments, and new ones are planted every day by guerrillas, paramilitaries, and drug traffickers.

Paramilitaries

There was an agreement in 2005 with the government which resulted in the disarmament of some of the paramilitaries. However they are still active in drug business, extortion rackets, and as a political force. They do not target tourists specifically, but running up against an illegal rural roadblock in more dangerous departments is possible.

Kidnappings

At the turn of the millennium Colombia had the highest rates of kidnapping in the world, a result of being one of the most cost-effective ways of financing for the guerrillas of the FARC and the ELN and other armed groups. Fortunately, the security situation has much improved and the groups involved are today much weakened, with the number of kidnappings dropping from 3,000 in 2000 down to 205 cases in 2016. Today kidnappings are still a problem in some southern departments like Valle del Cauca , Cauca , and Caquetá . Colombian law makes the payment of ransom illegal, therefore the police may not be informed in some circumstances.

The guerrilla movements which include FARC and ELN guerrillas are still operational, though they are greatly weakened compared to the 1990s as the Colombian army has killed most of their leaders. These guerrillas operate mainly in rural parts of southern, southeastern and northwestern Colombia, although they have a presence in 30 out of the country's 32 departments. Big cities hardly ever see guerrilla activity these days. Even in rural areas, if you stick to the main roads between major cities and do not wander off the beaten track, you are far more likely to encounter soldiers from the Colombian army than guerrillas. River police, highway police, newspapers, and fellow travelers can be a useful source of information off-the-beaten-path.

The crime rate in Colombia has been significantly reduced since its peak in the late 1980s and 1990s, with the police having arrested or killed many of the important leaders of the drug cartels. However, major urban centers and the countryside of Colombia still have very high violent crime rates, comparable to blighted cities in the United States , and crime has been on the increase. In the downtown areas of most cities (which rarely coincide with the wealthy parts of town) violent crime is not rare; poor sections of cities can be quite dangerous for someone unfamiliar with their surroundings. Taxi crime is a very serious danger in major cities, so always request taxis by phone or app, rather than hailing them off the street — it costs the same and your call will be answered rapidly. Official taxi ranks are safe as well (airports, bus terminals, shopping malls).

Local consumption is low, and penalties are draconian, owing to the nation's well-known largely successful fight against some of history's most powerful and dangerous traffickers. Remember that the drug trade in Colombia has ruined many innocent citizens' lives and dragged the country's reputation through the mud.

Marijuana is illegal to buy and sell, although officially you can carry up to 20 grams without being charged for it. Police will tolerate you having a few grams of this drug on your person, but you are flirting with danger if you carry much more. Especially in small towns, it is not always the police you have to deal with, but vigilantes. They often keep the peace in towns, and they have a very severe way of dealing with problems.

Scopolamine is an extremely dangerous drug from an Andean flowering tree, which is almost exclusively used for crime, and nearly all the world's incidents of such use take place in Colombia. Essentially a mind control drug (once experimented with as an interrogation device by the CIA), victims become extremely open to suggestion and are "talked into" ATM withdrawals, turning over belongings, letting criminals into their apartments, etc., all while maintaining an outward appearance of more or less sobriety. After affects include near total amnesia of what happened, as well as potential for serious medical problems. The most talked about method of getting drugged with scopolamine is that of powder blown off paper, e.g., someone walks up to you (with cotton balls in their nose to prevent blowback) and asks for help with a map, before blowing the drugs into your face. But by far the most common method is by drugging drinks at a bar. To be especially safe, abandon drinks if they've been left unattended. While a pretty rare problem, it's an awfully scary one, and happens most often in strip clubs or other establishments involving sex workers.

Stay healthy

Drink only bottled water outside the major cities. The water in major cities is safe. Most drinking water in people's homes is either boiled or of the purified variety that comes in huge multi-gallon plastic bags (which you can find at any little grocery store). The coffee's delicious, though, so why not just start that habit!

The tourism website of Colombia has the current information on COVID-19 .

Tropical diseases are a concern in lowland parts of the country, and more so outside of major cities. Mosquitoes carry malaria , Yellow fever , and Dengue , and infection rates are similar to other lowland parts of South America (i.e., much lower than in sub-Saharan Africa). Yellow fever has a vaccine, so get it—it's required for entry to many national parks, anyway. Dengue is not preventable beyond avoiding mosquito bites, so using bug spray regularly in lowland rural areas is good sense.

Malaria is a potential problem, so trips outside Bogotá , Medellín , Cartagena , and the Andean region warrant use of antimalarials, which can be bought very cheaply without a prescription from a droguería , which are everywhere in any city of any size throughout the country. Ask for Doxycicline tablets at a dosage of 100   mg, with the number being 30 days plus the number of days in a malarial area (so you can start 1–2 days in advance, and take it daily continuing for 4 weeks past the end of your trip). The phrase you want is: doxyciclina, cien miligramos, [number] pastillas . Using some bug spray in the evening serves as a bit of extra protection.

Cases of Zika virus have been reported in Colombia. Zika is a mosquito-borne and sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious birth defects. Travellers who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy should avoid travel to this country.

Colombians are acutely aware of their country's bad reputation, and tactless remarks about the history of violence might earn you a snide remark (likely regarding your country of origin) and an abrupt end to the conversation. However, Colombians eventually become willing to discuss these topics once they feel comfortable enough with someone.

Colombians are more formal than much of Latin America. Make a point to say "please" ("Por favor" or "Hágame el favor") and "thank you" ("muchas gracias") for anything, to anyone. When addressed, the proper response is "¿Señora?" or "¿Señor?" In parts of the country (especially Boyacá ) Colombians can be formal to the point of anachronism, calling strangers "Su merced" (your Mercy!) in place of usted. The one (much) more informal part of the country is along the Caribbean coast , where referring to people just as "chico" can be more the norm—but take your cues from those around you.

Race is not a hot issue in Colombia, since whites, criollos, and mestizos (mixed race) blend naturally with natives and Afro-Colombians in everyday life (education, living, politics, marriage). Differences between white foreigners are not dwelled upon: expect to be called "gringo" even if you are, say, Russian. Unless context includes anger, it's not meant to be offensive. If you are black, you will probably be referred to as "negro" or "moreno," which also are not considered at all offensive. Asians are usually called "chino" (Chinese), regardless of actual background. Confusingly, Colombians from the inner regions also occasionally refer to children as chinos ("kids"); this use comes from Chibcha, an indigenous language. Even more confusingly, Colombians refer to blondes and redheads as "monos" (monkeys). It sounds offensive, but actually ranges from neutral to affectionate. Colombians have the mannerism of pointing to objects with their chins or lips; pointing to a person or even an object with your finger can be considered rude or less discreet.

Avoid indicating a person's height using your hand palm down, as this is considered reserved for animals or inanimate objects. If you must, use your palm facing sidewards with the bottom of the hand expressing the height.

Colombians dance a lot. Anyone will be glad to teach you how to dance, and they will not expect you to do it correctly, since they have been practicing every weekend for most of their lives. Colombian night life centers mostly on dancing, and bars where people sit or stand are less common outside major cities. Despite the sensual movements, dancing is normally not intended as flirtation. It is applied in the same way as in Brazil—an almost-naked "garota" dancing samba in the carnival is not inviting you to have sex with her but inviting you to enjoy, to be happy, to join in the celebration, to join the exuberant shedding of inhibitions.

Gay and lesbian travelers

Most Colombians are Catholic, although you'll find that young people are quite relaxed about religion, especially with regards to social issues. Public displays of affection are rare, though, and may elicit uncomfortable stares. Verbal and physical homophobic violence is not necessarily unheard of, and unfortunately less aggressive homophobia may be more widespread than what politeness masks. Overall, Colombian attitudes to homosexuality are pretty similar to what you find in the United States.

You can find more liberally-minded areas (at least about LGBT issues) in Bogotá's Chapinero district. It is home to what may be the biggest LGBT community in Colombia, and is the focal point of the community's nightlife in Bogotá (if not the whole country), with explicitly gay-friendly establishments such as Theatron (arguably one of the biggest discos in South America) . LGBT pride parades also take place in some of the major cities sometime around late June and early July. [ dead link ]

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Colombia since April 2016.

It's simple enough to get a SIM card and even an unlocked phone at the international airport in Bogotá , although there is, of course, a price hike. They're not hard to find in any city either, just ask your hotel or hostel staff where to go. Topping up is also easy, and can be done pretty much on any street corner.

The carriers you'll most likely see are Claro, Tigo, and Movistar. Claro has the widest coverage in the country, if you expect to get off the beaten path. You can choose (as of July 2021) between

• 2 days 400MB for COP$3,000
• 6 days 1GB for COP$6,000
• 10 days 2GB for COP$10,000
• 20 days 4.5GB for COP$20,000
• 30 days 10GB for COP$40,000

All of them have unlimited domestic calls and texting. For recharging in a SuperGiro or lottery shop you simply write down or show your phone number and the price of the option. You can recharge online, if it's possible with your international credit card.

Virgin Mobile might be the best option if you want to have internet for a low price. It might take a bit longer to find a spot that sells the sim cards. It should cost COP$5k-10k pesos.

From landlines :

To call from a landline to another local landline, dial the normal seven digits. To call from a landline to a mobile, dial twelve digits, always beginning with 03, followed by the ten digit number provided.

It's far more complex to make long-distance domestic calls or international calls. Ask whoever owns the phone to dial it for you. If that's not an option, buy a mobile phone. Seriously.

From mobiles and from abroad :

To call a Colombian landline from another country or from a mobile phone in Colombia, use the +57 country code then the eight digit number (the first of which is the area code). To dial to a mobile phone, dial +57 and then the ten digit number. You can also type "00" instead of the "+".

Colombia does not have a government-run post office system. However, the private firm 4-72 [ dead link ] serves as Colombia's de facto postal service, though it tends to be somewhat slow and unreliable. Locals rarely use the 4-72 service and usually go to couriers such as Servientrega , which have many more branches than 4-72, though they are very expensive when used to send mail overseas.

Internet cafés

Internet cafés are easy to find in any city or town. Expect rates depending on how much competition there is (i.e., cheap in Bogotá, expensive in the middle of nowhere). Quality of connection is directly related to the centrality of location, and hence inversely related to price.

Crossing the land border is possible to Ecuador , Brazil , Peru and Venezuela .

To cross the land border to Brazil and Peru, take a flight to Leticia . To enter Ecuador on land, you could fly to Ipiales or Pasto near the border.

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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Colombia

• Eating and drinking in Colombia
• Getting around Colombia: Transportation Tips
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• Weather in Medellin in April
• Weather in Medellín in March
• Weather in Colombia in January
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Daily budget Basic US$50, occasional treat US$90 Drink Fresh fruit juice US$2 Food Pargo frito con arroz con coco (fried snapper with coconut rice) US$8 Hostel/budget hotel US$20/40 Travel Bogotá–Cartagena bus (663km; 19hr) US$75

Crime and personal safety

Emergencies, entry requirements, information, money and banks, opening hours, public holidays, local slang, culture in colombia, travel ideas for colombia, created by local experts.

Unforgettable Colombia

Spend your first days in Colombia exploring its capital city Bogotá before heading further to the coast: Cartagena and Santa Marta will be next on the agenda. From wandering the historic city center to hiking the jungles to a virgin beach, Colombia will be an unforgettable trip!

Colombia: music & arts explored

If you are a lover of the arts than look no further. This trip will bring you culture, art, architecture, music and dance: visit local markets and workshops, admire the graffiti in Bogotá, discover historical city centers and “Fondas” – local bars with exotic decoration and typical Colombian music.

Colombia for nature & adventure lovers

Do you like adventure and nature? Then you're in luck, this trip combines the best of both. Go horse riding through the Risaralda valley and join a bike tour through Cartagena, visit the beautiful Cocora Valley and discover the Coffee Cultural Landscape. There's something for everyone!

Classic Colombia

Colombia's rich culture and traditions make it a fascinating holiday destination: from the streets of Bogotá move on to the stunning Valle de Cocora and Salento with its remarkable wax palms. From Medellín take a day tour to Guatapé before finalizing your trip in coastal Cartagena.

Exploring Colombia

Explore three of the most famous Colombian cities Bogota, Medellín and Cartagena during this 9-day trip. Get to know each city and its unique people by diving deep into the culture, history and traditions.

Colombia: Family Adventure

From city adventures to experiencing a pump in your adrenaline while river rafting and learning more about the different species of birds, monkeys, squirrels, peccary and other species that can be found during an exiting rainforest trail....this truly is a trip packed with family fun activities!

Colombia today is far safer and more accessible than it has been in decades. That said, pockets of guerrilla activity remain in remote parts of the country, particularly the jungle – a haven for drug-running activities – both by the rebels and particularly by the paramilitary groups who have the tacit support of the government, and who have been criticized for using techniques as dirty as those employed by the rebels. The FARC have renounced kidnappings for financial or political ends, but it remains to be seen whether they’ll remain true to their word. Although, reassuringly, tourists have not been targeted specifically in the country’s civil war, certain areas should still be avoided , including the Chocó, parts of Nariño, Putumayo, Meta, Arauca and rural parts of Cauca. Most guerrilla/paramilitary activity is confined to rural areas near the border with Panama and Venezuela. However, it’s imperative that you stay abreast of current events: for up-to-date travel advice check www.travel.state.gov or www.gov.uk/fco .

Violent crime does exist, particularly in poor neighbourhoods of the big cities, but visitors are far more likely to encounter pickpockets, so keep a sharp eye on your belongings. Beware of scams – such as criminals posing as plain-clothes policemen and asking to inspect your passport and money, allegedly in search of counterfeit notes, which they then confiscate. Counterfeit notes do exist, so ask locals how to identify them.

When out and about, take only as much cash as you need for the outing, and leave the rest (as well as your passport) in a safe in your lodgings. Always carry a photocopy of your passport with you – the main page and the page with your entry stamp. Local police have a mixed reputation for corruption.

Drugs are widely available in Colombia, cocaine and marijuana in particular. Possession of either is illegal and could result in a prison sentence, and being caught with drugs while trying to cross a border can have serious consequences. If you do decide to take drugs, be very careful: they are much stronger than in Europe and the US. Do not accept drinks, snacks or cigarettes from strangers as there have been reports of these being spiked with the tasteless and smell-free drug burundanga , or “zombie drug”, that leaves victims conscious but incapacitated and susceptible to robbery and rape.

Police/ambulance/fire 123

A passport and onward ticket are the sole entry requirements for nationals of most of Western European countries, Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

Upon arrival, all visitors receive an entry stamp in their passports, usually for sixty days . You can request up to ninety days but this is rarely granted. Double-check the stamp straightaway for errors. Make sure you get an entry stamp if coming in overland and that you get a departure stamp upon exiting to avoid trouble.

Thirty-day extensions cost COP$72,350 and can be obtained at the former DAS (Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad) offices from the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores ( www.cancilleria.gov.co ). You’ll need two passport photos with a white background, copies of your passport and entry stamp as well as the original, and an onward ticket.

Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid are strongly recommended and rabies should also be considered; consult a travel health clinic weeks in advance. Vaccinations against yellow fever are necessary if visiting coastal national parks; some countries, such as Australia and Brazil, will not let you into the country without a yellow fever certificate if you’re travelling directly from Colombia. Insect-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever are present, particularly in the Amazonas, Chocó, Antioquia, Córdoba, Bolívar, Putomayo and Atlántico departments – bring plenty of mosquito repellent (50 percent DEET, unavailable in Colombia) and cover up with long sleeves and trousers. Altitude sickness ( soroche ) may affect travellers at altitudes over 2500m, including those flying directly to Bogotá – take time to acclimatize before continuing your journey, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

Colombia offers some of the best healthcare in South America; all major cities have hospitals , while in rural areas healthcare is more difficult to come by. In the case of serious health issues, you may be transferred to a larger hospital with more specialized doctors and facilities.

Despite the significant rise in tourism to Colombia in recent years, the practical information available at tourist offices is often rudimentary. Almost every town has a tourist office, although their staff often don’t speak English, and hostels are often much more useful for gathering information.

In Colombia, the annually updated (Spanish only) Guía de Rutas , sold at tollbooths and some tourist offices, has excellent maps , as well as potential road-trip routes and extensive local listings.

colombiareports.com Latest news, sports, culture and travel in English.

colombia.travel Colombia’s official tourism site, with plenty of photos, good background and some practical information.

hosteltrail.com/colombia Budget accommodation and local attractions.

parquesnacionales.gov.co Portal to Colombia’s national parks.

Internet cafés can be found even in small towns (from COP$3000/hr), and free wi-fi spots are becoming easier to find.

Sending a postcard or a letter abroad can be done for COP$5500–6500 from almost anywhere in the country, using the efficient 4-72 (4-72.com.co). Packages are best sent via private companies such as Avianca ( aviancaexpress.com ) and Deprisa ( deprisa.com ).

Colombia’s national currency is the peso (COP) , divided into 100 centavos. Coins are for 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 pesos and notes for 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 pesos. At the time of writing, rates were: US$1=COP$1800; £1=COP$2700; €1=COP$2300.

Changing large notes can be problematic outside big cities.

ATMs are plentiful, with at least one even in small towns. For changing money , casas de cambio offer slightly better rates, have more flexible hours and provide quicker service than most banks. Travellers’ cheques can also be exchanged at casas de cambios and banks, but few businesses accept them. Using moneychangers on the street is not recommended.

Shops are open 8am until 6pm, Monday to Friday. Many businesses also often open on Saturdays until mid-afternoon. Outside Bogotá many businesses close at noon for a two- or three-hour siesta. Commercial hours in cities in warmer areas such as Cali often get started and end earlier. Government offices often follow the same pattern. Banks open around 9am and close at 4pm. Casas de cambio stay open later.

The three major mobile phone networks are Movistar, Claro and Tigo, and it’s inexpensive to purchase a local mobile phone: a basic handset will set you back around COP$50,000–60,000; if you have an unlocked phone, a SIM card will set your back around COP$12,000, with around COP$5000 worth of credit, with top-up credits sold in every corner shop. However, it’s cheapest to make domestic long-distance calls using the mobile phones in corner stores that buy minutes in bulk (look for the word “ minutos ”). Call centres ( telecentros ) allow you to make inexpensive calls both to local numbers and abroad, though Skype is by far the cheapest way to go, given the proliferation of free wi-fi.

• January 1 New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo)
• January 6 Epiphany (Día de los Reyes Magos)
• March 21 St Joseph’s Day (Father’s Day)
• March or April Easter (Semana Santa)
• May 1 Labour Day (Día del Trabajo)
• May Ascension Day (the Monday six weeks and a day after Easter Sunday)
• May/June Corpus Christi (the Monday nine weeks and a day after Easter Sunday)
• June 29 Saint Peter and Saint Paul (San Pedro y San Pablo)
• July 20 Independence Day
• August 7 Battle of Boyacá
• August 15 Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Asunción de la Virgen)
• October 12 Columbus Day (Día de la Raza)
• November 1 All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos los Santos)
• November 11 Independence of Cartagena
• December 8 Immaculate Conception (Inmaculada Concepción)
• December 25 Christmas Day (Navidad)

Colombians take much joy in their particular style of linguistic acrobatics and slang. Colombians freely convert verbs to nouns and vice versa, so take each word as a fluid concept.

(n), camellar (v) Work, or working. A good way to refer to a particularly trying task.

La/una chimba

(adj) Used to describe a situation or thing that is wonderful. Roughly synonymous with the youthful American usage of “awesome”. Variations include “Qué chimba!” (“Nice!”).

(n) Body odour. A crass but still useable term.

(adj) “Cool”, loosely. Used to describe the subset of cool things – or happenings – that’s particularly classy, well executed or elegant. Think football passes or a good outfit. Chevere and bacán are other words for “cool”.

(adj) “That really sucks”. Used in response to a comment or situation that’s aggressively bad or heavy.

(n) Cocaine. Regional translations include scrambled eggs, coffee with milk or (as here) a parakeet.

(adj) Common response to a question like “How was your day?” that means “Good!” or “Perfect!”

In Colombia you will notice a great disparity between the wealthiest members of society – who live a lifestyle akin to that of their counterparts in Europe’s capitals – and the rest of the population: the poor city residents who live in dangerous neighbourhoods, and below them on the poverty scale the rural poor, particularly those who live in isolated areas where armed conflict still goes on.

When interacting with Colombians, Westerners will note that sincerity in expression, often expressed via good eye contact, is valued more highly than the typical steady stream of pleases and thank-yous.

Tipping ten percent at mid-range restaurants is the norm; some establishments will ask you if you’d like for the tip to be included when you ask for the bill, while some add it on automatically. For short taxi trips, round up to the nearest thousand pesos.

The machismo often ascribed to Latin American culture is present in Colombia, though a significant number (around 30 percent) of politicians and diplomats are female. The country’s Catholic roots run quite deep and are apparent in sexual attitudes among both men and women, though there is some flexibility – and contradiction – in views toward gender and sexual orientation.

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Colombia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Colombia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Colombia entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Colombia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Can I travel to Colombia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Colombia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Colombia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Colombia.

Can I travel to Colombia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Colombia?

Mask usage in Colombia is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Colombia?

Restaurants in Colombia are open. Bars in Colombia are .

Colombia’s two coastlines have very distinct characteristics: from the boggy horseshoe bays, inlets and jutting marshland peninsulas that epitomise the Pacific shoreline to the Caribbean’s sandy beaches, palm-fringed islands and saline pools. Sarah Woods author of Colombia: The Bradt Guide

As the only South American nation with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Colombia offers amazing diving on coral reefs, outlying islands and beaches in a variety of amber, silver, white and salt-and-pepper sands. 

Colombia’s two coastlines have very distinct characteristics: from the boggy horseshoe bays, inlets and jutting marshland peninsulas that epitomise the Pacific shoreline to the Caribbean’s sandy beaches, palm-fringed islands and saline pools.

Huge rolling rivers, gushing streams and flamingo-topped lagoons dot a dramatically contrasting terrain that sees curvaceous grasslands run to reed-trimmed wetlands and snow-capped mountain peaks; lunar-like craterous deserts; lush, vine-tangled rainforests; flower-filled meadows and tufted fields of coffee.

Shaped like an oversized fraying bedsheet, Colombia is South America’s fourth-largest country (after Brazil, Argentina and Peru) at 1,141,748km 2 and is characterised by a location near the Equator that creates an extraordinary diversity of climates, vegetation, soils and crops. In the countryside that edges the foothills of the Andes, pretty red-and-white fincas nestle in green forests.

On the country’s northernmost tip, simple thatched-topped huts line many of palm-scattered idyllic white-sand beaches. Along the Caribbean coast, fine colonial settlements painted in bright bubblegum hues line charming paved courtyards and cobblestone streets. While in the Amazon basin, dozen of indigenous cultures speak more than 60 languages in a region that is home to the greatest number of bird species on earth.

Journey along the inky-green might of the Amazon River amongst 1,500 butterfly species, 1,800 bird species, 800 insect species, 2,000 species of reptile and amphibian, 3,200 species of fish, 51,220 plant species – in a region that is home to a staggering 10% of all species found on the planet.

On the jungle-thick Pacific Coast, turquoise waters are rich in marine life; resplendent swathes of dense palms and ferns teem with insects, birds and colourful blooms. In the interior region, vast  canyons, magnificent waterfalls and bubbling thermal springs stud rugged terrains that contain creeper-clad ruins from ancient civilisations in a land where the pre-Colombian gold and sacred sites that spawned the myth of El Dorado remain to this day.

The isolated, mystical mountains of Santa Marta boast the highest point in the country along its fault-bounded granite massif at 5,775m atop the twin peaks of Cristóbal Colón and Simón Bolívar. Hikers and wildlife watchers can delve into forests that are home to armadillo, jaguar, tapir, ocelot, monkey and puma.

A mix of ethnicities and dialects reflect Colombia’s many border influences from Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador and Brazil and Peru. Colombia is also the setting of Colombian writer Gabriel García Márquez’s massively popular novel One Hundred Years of Solitude – a story as entrancing as the country itself. 

For more information, check out our guide to Colombia:

Food and drink in Colombia

In the last decade Colombia has experienced a gastronomic explosion, attracting world-class chefs to its thousands of restaurants to create a culinary scene that is one of Latin America’s best-kept secrets. Much of this modern gastronomic ID is found in Bogotá’s über-cosmopolitan restaurant districts, where Colombian Creole classics and champagne and oyster bars rub shoulders with pan-Asian fusion diners and stylish French brasseries. Yet Colombia’s sophisticated international culinary triumphs aren’t just confined to the swish bistros of the capital city. Mini-gastronomic circles are springing up in cities such as Cali and Medellín and the resort areas in Cartagena, creating an exciting alternative to Colombia’s traditional culinary staples. Yet, fear not – typical Colombian fare ( comida criolla ) remains very much in evidence on every street corner, from the sidewalk vendors selling paper-wrapped tamales to the hearty plates of chicken, rice, fried plantains and red beans served as  comida corriente  (set meal) in cantinas nationwide. Expect to find plenty of variations on comida criolla during a journey across Colombia, each with its own distinct twist. On the Caribbean coastline the focus is seafood, especially lobster, while in the Andes a guinea pig dish is a regional delicacy. In Bogotá,  ajiaco  (a stew of chicken and potatoes) promises to keep citydwellers warm during seasonal frosts, while generous helpings of  sancocho  soup are served using at least a hundred different recipes in every town from Leticia to El Cabo.

Vegetarian food

Colombia has a growing number of good vegetarian restaurants, although these are confined to the larger cities. Most are in Bogotá, Cali and Medellín, but there are a few surprises in Buenaventura, Meta and Barranquilla to name just a few. Juice bars, organic food shops, health stores and delicatessens are also found throughout the capital. Some of Colombia’s vegetarian diners feature on the international listing  www.happycow.net . Entries also state if the menu is vegan, lacto, organic, eat-in or take-away.

Health and safety in Colombia

Healthcare in Colombia is reasonably good, especially in cities where getting modern medical treatment fairly fast poses little problem. In rural areas, however, don’t rely on finding any medical care. Arrive prepared with any medicines that might be needed and a first-aid kit, and plan for unforeseen emergencies. Health centres in most towns should be able to treat minor ailments and costs are usually very low. However, treatment is paid for at the time it is administered so it is important to have access to cash. Ask for a receipt if you intend to claim on your health insurance and be prepared to pay upfront if an ambulance is required. Medical staff in towns or rural areas may not speak English, so it may pay to look up some useful Spanish phrases beforehand, such as the names of allergies to medicines or words about pregnancy, etc. Take out health insurance before your visit to Colombia, and if you intend to trek or hike – a policy should cover every eventuality, including being evacuated for more advanced hospital care.

Although conflicting stories abound about safety in Colombia, the issue of travelling without incident here remains an important consideration. Those planning to criss-cross the country should do plenty of thorough research – whilst remaining mindful that Colombia thrives on urban myth and is prone to circulating safety information that is out of date. This country remains a place where there is danger, although the present security situation is much improved. Today, it offers the safest travel conditions for many decades and visitors who apply common sense should expect an incident-free stay. Take safety warnings extremely seriously and stay away from regions that are totally out of bounds. Red Zones under the control of warring factions are found in the south of the country, while some city slum areas are highly dangerous no-go areas where violence is rife.

Female travellers

Colombian women are highly politically active and appear extremely confident in social situations. However, machismo still plays a large role in Colombia and female travellers may feel less vulnerable in a group. Those travelling alone should be prepared for the occasional come-on, flirty comment and wolf-whistle from Colombian men – it is part of the culture and something that is best accepted with good grace. Expect it to happen wherever you are, be it a city or rural village – react without hostility but firmly ignore the attention. Avoid acting coy, shy or giggly as this may be misinterpreted as interest. Dressing in short skirts or revealing tops will only exacerbate the situation so stick to conservative clothing – even if the local girls are flaunting their bodies. Some travellers resort to wearing a wedding ring in order to put off male advances – it may work but will rarely stop a persistent suitor. Women who plan to party or drink in bars should remember that dancing with men or accepting drinks may also be construed as interest. Avoid drinking to excess as this will make you vulnerable and when leaving a bar or party make sure you are in a group. Never accept a lift, or walk home, with someone you don’t know, or have just met. Attacks on female tourists are rare with robbery a more common motivation than sex crimes. However, if anyone you don’t know approaches you on the street or on the beach, offering tours (or anything else) don’t wait to hear his patter – walk away.

Travellers with a disability

Colombia isn’t the easiest place for travellers with a disability, especially those keen to leave the major cities behind. Provincial roads tend to be unpaved, pot-holed and are often little more than dirt tracks. Although wheelchairs and mobility aids are available in large malls and shopping centres, they are rare in rural areas. Adaptations and amenities also vary from place to place. This inconsistency makes planning ahead difficult. However, Colombia’s National Institute for the Blind (Instituto Nacional para Ciegos, INCI) has made considerable inroads in campaigning for public information to be available in Braille. There are just over two million deaf people in Colombia, according to Federación Nacional de Sordos de Colombia, an organisation established to promote sign language (known as LSC) in 1984. Two constitutional laws for deaf people passed in 1996 recognise Colombian sign language and requires captioning or sign language on television.

Wheelchair ramps are also mandatory in new public buildings, although compliance is poor in this respect outside of urban centres. The Murillo Toro post office building in Bogotá has an entrance ramp, as does the Ministry of Education, but older buildings are rarely modified for disabled access and usually contain steep flights of steps. Much of Colombia’s public transportation system is also inaccessible, impairing the free movement of people with disabilities countrywide. The exception to this is the TransMilenio in Bogotá and Medellín’s Metro system, both of which have special facilities for disabled passengers and wheelchair users.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Colombia has a relatively small gay scene confined to its major cities but has witnessed significant improvements in gay and lesbian rights in recent years. However, discrimination remains rife, despite Colombia’s increasingly liberal social attitudes. Today, it may be easier to be openly homosexual in major cities but in rural areas the attitude towards gays and lesbians shows little sign of softening. Dozens of groups in Colombia have conducted anti-gay campaigns under such names as ‘Death to Homosexuals’. Even a human rights ombudsman once described homosexuals in a television interview as ‘abnormal faggots’ that should be subject to ‘social control’.

However, Colombia does have openly gay politicians, an active gay and lesbian information network and an active gay rights group – Bogotá-based Colombia Diversa, founded in 2004. Consensual homosexual activity was decriminalised in 1980 with amendments to the Criminal Code so there is a single age of consent of 14. In 2003, following strong opposition from the Catholic Church, an extremely progressive bill to give legal recognition to lesbian and gay partnerships was shelved. However, in February 2007 the Colombian Constitutional Court ruled that same-sex couples are entitled to the same inheritance rights as heterosexuals in common-law marriages. Even Colombia’s powerful Catholic hierarchy backed the bill on the basis that it didn’t include same-sex marriage or adoption. According to Colombia Diversa at least 100,000 couples will benefit from the new legislation, which is one of the most progressive gay rights reforms in Latin America. In 2010, gay rights advocates gathered in protest in Bogotá after Colombia’s Constitutional Court voted five to four to dismiss a lawsuit arguing for a change in the country’s civil code that would allow same-sex marriage.

Travel and visas in Colombia

Citizens from most western European countries (including the UK), Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Canada only need a valid passport to enter Colombia. A 30-, 60- or 90-day tourist visa will be issued on entry without the need to apply for any other visa in advance. Those planning to stay for up to 90 days should notify immigration officials as they tend to issue 30 or 60 days as standard.

Once in the country, extended stays of over 90 days should be arranged by visiting the Office of Immigration Affairs in Bogotá to submit an application. Those planning to work or study in Colombia will need to apply for the relevant visa from the Colombian consulate in their home country before they leave.

Citizens from restricted countries need to apply for a tourist visa in the Colombian consulate in their country of origin. 

Whether arriving by plane or land, visitors must hold a return or onward ticket to prove an intention to leave the country. Furthermore, the ticket out of the country should be dated within 90 days to avoid difficulties at immigration. It is also entirely possible that proof may be required to show sufficient funds exist to cover your stay. Passport and visa requirements can change without much notice, so check with the Colombian embassy in advance of your trip. 

Don’t forget to allow for the airport tax on departure, which is currently 71,000COP for a 90-day stay but less for a 60-day stay. Make sure your passport is stamped on both arrival and exit, whether you enter by air, land or sea, or you may be liable for a fine. Individuals entering or leaving Colombia are only entitled to carry up to US$10,000 in cash.

Anything in excess of this may be confiscated. Recently, a British national carrying US$14,000 had US$4,000 confiscated by the authorities at the airport, despite his argument that the money belonged to both him and his wife, who was travelling with him.

Those entering by sea must report to the port’s local immigration office for a passport entry stamp within one day of arrival.

Getting there and away

Colombia’s major international airports are El Dorado ( www.Bogota-dc.com/trans/aviones.htm ) in Bogotá (BOG), Alfonso Bonilla Aragón, Cali (CLO), José María Codova, Medellín (MDE), and Rafael Nuñez, Cartagena (CTG). Other popular international airports include Barranquilla (BAQ) and Bucaramanga (BGA). National airline Avianca ( www.avianca.com ) serves all international airports from most Latin American destinations as well as some cities in North America and Spain. The Avianca VIP lounge at El Dorado International Airport won the ‘Priority Pass Airport Lounge of the Year’ award in 2006.

Air France ( www.airfrance.co.uk ) operates from most western European destinations with stopovers on some routes. Iberia flies from Madrid to all the above airports, via Bogotá. American Airlines (www.aa.com), Northwest ( www.nwa.com ), Continental ( www.continentalairlines.com ) and Delta ( www.delta.com ) are the major airlines between the US and most of Colombia’s international airports. Copa (www.copaair.com) also provides services to New York, Miami and Orlando from Barranquilla, Bogotá and Cali. 

From Bogotá, LAN Airlines ( www.lan.com ) connects to Miami, Quito, Ecuador and other South American destinations via stopovers. LACSA and TACA ( www.taca.com ) both connect between Bogotá and Latin American and some US destinations. Flying time is around 10½ hours from Madrid, 12 from Paris and 13 from London (exc stopover). Flying from New York takes 4½ hours and from Los Angeles 8 hours.

Most tourists entering by sea do so on cruise lines, where all necessary entrance formalities are taken care of by cruise staff. Several shipping companies dock on the Caribbean coast and it is possible to take a boat tour from both Colón and Kuna Yala (San Blas) in Panama to Colombia’s Cartagena. Those that do arrive in Cartagena by boat must visit the immigration office on the day of arrival for a Colombian entry stamp in their passport – fail to do so and you will be illegal in the country after 24 hours.

Getting around

Flying is by far the safest, easiest and most convenient way of getting around the country, with around 984 airports (although only around 100 have paved runways). Most domestic flights take less than 60 minutes’ flying time. Some offer business class and economy tickets and serve a snack and a drink. Avianca, Latin America’s first airline, Aires, AeroRepublica and Satena are some of the large domestic carriers, although there are others.

There are an estimated 18,000km of waterways in the country. Both the Río Magdalena (Magdalena River) that intersects the country to the north of Bogotá and the Río Cauca (Cauca River) are navigable in parts (some 1,500km). However, you should thoroughly research any such project first. Wide rivers and jungle canals sound intriguing, but they can lead you to some extremely remote destinations, which could be dangerous in the light of the current guerrilla and paramilitary situation. Jungle canals around Leticia provide a safer option, and tour operators can supply advice.

When to visit Colombia

Colombia lies almost entirely in the so-called Torrid Zone: a part of the earth’s surface between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn characterised by hot weather. However, Colombia’s climate varies as a result of the differences in altitude with seasons defined by periods of lesser or greater rainfall, with little or no temperature change. Weatherwise, the country can be divided vertically into four regions with the hot country (tierra caliente) stretching from sea level to roughly 1,100m. In the temperate zone (tierra templada) elevations reach 3,000m while the remaining land is dubbed ‘the cold country’ (tierra fría) as it exceeds 3,000m. The cold zone’s upper area marks the treeline and roughly denotes the limit of human habitation. Adjacent to the tierra fría are Colombia’s treeless regions. These can reach 4,500m and are bleak areas referred to as the páramos, usually with permanent snow (nevado). Expect an average of 24–27°C in the hot low-lying regions along the Caribbean coastline and outlying islands, but don’t be surprised if they rarely exceed 22°C in lofty Bogotá. Medellín is known as ‘La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera’ (or ‘City of the Eternal Spring’) throughout Colombia for its pleasant year-round climate with minimal temperature variations.

When to visit

Like many countries, Colombia is experiencing a blurring of the seasons and unpredictable and atypical weather patterns have flummoxed meteorologists in recent years. However, generally speaking, Colombia’s verano (summer) is from December to March. These months and those from mid-June to mid-August tend to be the best times to visit, with the exception of the northern plains where the wet season continues. Some 90% of Colombia’s territory is below 915m, tropical and warm with temperatures averaging around 25°C. The Caribbean coast and the Amazon are extremely humid and rain is sporadic and unpredictable even in the dry season. As you ascend Colombia’s Andes the temperature will drop around 6% per 1,000m. And, at an altitude of 1,980m, you’ll find yourself amongst glaciers, where temperatures can be as low as –17°C.

This range of climate and scenery is one of Colombia’s best assets and the country offers visitors the full spectrum of travel opportunities. Adventurous travellers can hop between the snow-capped peaks of the Colombian Andes and the Caribbean’s tropical turquoise waters and golden sands. Those looking for a more relaxed break can simply pick their preferred holiday – mountain hike, Caribbean beach, city jaunt or jungle trek are just some of the many, many choices available. High season in Colombia can be busy with hordes of domestic vacationers. Visit during the celebratory months of Carnaval (in Barranquilla, Feb/Mar), Semana Santa (Holy Week, Mar/Apr) or Navidad (Christmas) and plans should be made well in advance with hotels and transport booked. In addition, check for regional celebrations, when towns, villages and even roads close entirely to enable locals to enjoy the fiesta. Unless you dislike big or lively crowds, these regional and national festivals are a great way to become immersed in Colombia’s different cultures. Witness colourful rituals, dancing and the relaxed side of local life, as businesses close for the holiday and people revel in a party atmosphere that can last several days – at least.

What to see and do in Colombia

Exhilarating, humbling and awe-inspiring, the Amazon River is roughly the size of Germany, spanning 643,000km 2 and covering some 40% of South America as the largest lowland in Latin America. The river starts as a tiny trickle atop the snow-capped Andes Mountains and flows across the South American continent until it enters the Atlantic Ocean at Belém, Brazil. Reaching 40km in width at the height of the rainy season the mighty River Sea (as it is often referred to) can flood up to 350,000km 2 of land. Stretches of the River Amazon are deep enough to accommodate ocean liners. Sections are fast-flowing and debrisscattered fed by over 1,100 tributaries, 17 of which are more than 1,000 miles long.

This mammoth watershed contains over two-thirds of the earth’s fresh water in its rivers, streams and tributaries. From the headwaters of Peru’s Ucayali-Apurímac river system the river flows for 6,400km to Brazil via Colombia, a distance slightly shorter than the Nile River but roughly the equivalent of a journey from New York City to Rome. Tiny wood-and-thatch Indian villages hug emerald vine-tangled riverbanks to the cacophony of squawking crimson parrots, chattering monkeys and whining insects in the treetops overhead. Piranha, crocodiles and dugout canoes navigate the waters of the mighty Amazon River and its many tributaries. Indian tribes hostile to strangers hide themselves away in the rainforest, living much as they did before the arrival of the Europeans, hunting, fishing and eating a diet of berries, plants and fruit. Giant blue butterflies and water lilies the size of serving trays are just a couple of the highlights in this magical, surreal land. Hot, sticky conditions complete with vast swarms of hungry mosquitoes and reddish glue-like mud prevail along this brooding river stretch of inky green.

As a region, the Amazon is home to at least 7,500 species of butterfly, 1,800 birds, 800 insect species and almost 2,000 species of reptile and amphibian. It contains 3,200 species of fish and is home to a staggering 10% of all species found on the planet. Botanists have recorded 51,220 species of plant, but doubt they will ever be able to catalogue everything in the lifetime of the world. In a single acre of forest, as many as 100 arboreal species have been counted. Up to 121 million litres of water per second are generated by the River Amazon with an average of three million tonnes of sediment deposited each day near its mouth. The annual outflow from the river accounts for 20% of all the fresh water draining into the entire world’s oceans.

Once a byword for danger, the city of Bogotá has undergone a significant clean-up act in recent years, following a passionate campaign aimed at nurturing societal change. Visionary leaderships have ignited fresh fire into the belly of Bogotá’s eight million inhabitants via a host of pioneering strategies that have helped change the mindset and behaviours of a once unruly urban sprawl. Today, Bogotá is a cosmopolitan city on the up, a metropolis that bears the signs of modern self-improvement.

Sleek skyscrapers and a futuristic transit system are symbols of an (almost) transformed city that boasts 4,594 public parks. Thousands of cyclists of all ages criss-cross Bogotá’s wide, green expanses on Latin America’s largest bikepath network. Car use is restricted to lessen congestion. Vehicles no longer park on sidewalks and basic traffic laws such as stopping at a red light, giving priority to pedestrians, and buses stopping only at bus stops are largely obeyed (except perhaps by busetas). Citizenship is no longer a laughable concept in the city and today the mood is one of highly charged optimism. Designer stores, swanky cafés, lounge bars and fine restaurants are testament to Bogotá’s ambition to become one of the most desirable cities on the radar. Sunday in the city is a family day when the streets take on a party atmosphere of clowns, music and picnics in the parks. Food vendors, churchgoers and mothers with pushchairs converge on the plazas and compete for space with armies of pigeons. Jugglers take centre stage on empty roundabouts while old women on flower stalls sit amongst a fragrant kaleidoscope of varicoloured blooms. Paths are freshly swept and roads free of rubbish in a place where choking smog once dominated the cityscape. Today the people of Bogotá love and respect their city – it is now oh-so chévere (cool) to be Bogotano, a far cry from the sentiment of a decade ago when it was a place that was truly loathed.

Yet modern-day Bogotá still has its many problems, some of which are born out of a rapidly expanding refugee population displaced from Colombia’s rural provinces. Constant streams of migrants arrive in the capital full of high hopes, only to find the city’s streets aren’t paved with gold. Most of these poor peasants end up in the makeshift shanty towns that sprawl along Bogotá’s fast-decaying southern nub. Conditions are nothing short of horrendous with sanitation and fresh water scarce. Piles of rotting rubbish are scavenged for a glimmer of hope in sewageswamped streets that are as lawless as they are vile. Pickpockets plague the shopping malls and all sorts of evils roam the streets after dark yet, despite this, Colombia’s ‘first city’ refuses to be in the doldrums. Bogotanos are largely a morally responsive, socially conscious and fashionably introspective bunch – so the mood within vast swathes of the city is upbeat. Big hotels are also expressing confidence in Bogotá’s promising future – that Hilton returned to open a swanky US$27 million hotel in 2009 and Hyatt pledged US$100 million in 2010 is a clear show of faith. However, the vast disparities that exist between the affluent north and poverty-stricken south are nothing short of shocking – two very different faces of Bogotá, wrapped around the bubblegum-coloured colonial core of the old quarter of the city.

Caleños consider their passion for music and their beautiful women a source of great pride. Cali appears to be permeated by an irrepressible rhythmic pulse as Colombia’s undisputed ‘salsa city’. Every arterial in this modern urban sprawl seems to throb with a percussive Latin beat as Cali’s party people come out to play. Having imported salsa and other Latin American musical genres from Cuba and Puerto Rico, Caleños are rapturous about staccato merengue rhythms, samba and rumba classics and syncopated ta-tum-ta-tum bossa nova beats. Even on a weekday, hip-swaying salseros can be found sashaying and snaking through downtown arepa stalls bound for downtown salsotecas (salsa bars).

High-heeled women in skin-tight garb click their heels to the sound of drumming timbales and claves while car stereos emit the powerful boom of tumbao, cuica and cavaquinho. A row of neon-lit basement dancehalls emit a cocktail of pan-Latino melodies so sweet it can almost be imbibed. More than 130 salsa orchestras, 5,000 salsa students, dozens of music stores and instrument makers, over a hundred salsotecas and numerous conga, bongo and maracas players give Cali its character – along with an energetic nightlife that requires plenty of stamina. Cali is also home to a week-long salsa festival – the largest on the planet – that celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2007. This kaleidoscope of music and dance is not for the faint-hearted. Indeed, it’s as hot, claim the Caleños, as the women of the city and its year-round sultry heat.

Los Llanos – ‘the flat plains’ – is a vast grassland savanna that sprawls to the east of the Andes in northwest Colombia and Venezuela. These cattle-clad seasonally flooded lowlands cover over 50% of the country’s total landmass, comprising rolling grassy knolls, scrubby pasture and prairies dotted with ranches. The region’s main river is the Orinoco with gentle slopes that lead away from higher elevations, which barely rise above 200m. Herdsmen in Los Llanos raise mammoth droves of cattle over many thousands of acres with stud farms, horses and cow fields the lifeblood of Colombia’s ‘cowboy country’. Corralling, roping, ranging and lassoing are all-important skills in this rural hinterland where the nasal dialect of the Llaneros (plainspeople) remains peppered with phrases unchanged from the idioms of the first Spaniard settlers.

The Llaneros are proud of their hard lives and are dedicated cowboys from cradle to grave, spending long days enduring extreme heat and high winds in the saddle. Having learned how to ‘break’ horses while young, these gaucho-like ranchers enjoy a provincial culture rich in folklore, legends and stories. It is hard to image a Colombian song more poignant than those of Los Llanos’ heartfelt lilting lyrics to the melodic strum of the cuatro guitar or harp. A true Llanero is a legendary figure on the ranches of Colombia and these accomplished horsemen often wear the distinctive traditional working clothes of a poncho, straw hat and cotizas (rope-soled sandals).

Los Nevados National Park

Travellers keen to hike through some of Colombia’s most striking terrain will find this 583km² patch of the Andes fits the bill. Not only does this snow-caked range of volcanic peaks – topped by the 5,325m-tall Nevado del Ruiz – offer truly incredible views from trails that climb through cloudforest but it is also relatively easy to access and, most importantly, safe. However, it is very cold and the altitude can pose problems health-wise. On this basis, anyone not feeling 100% fit should give Los Nevados a miss.

A hike to the summit of the still-active Nevado del Ruiz takes about three hours. Varying altitudes ensure a collection of well-maintained paths wind through considerable diverse terrains, from humid thickets and cool highland scrubland to crisp, white snow and ice. Popular with skiers and budding volcanologists, the range comprises El Tolima (5,215m) at the southern end followed by El Quindío (4,750m), Santa Isabel (4,950m), El Cisne (4,750m) and then El Ruiz in the north. The park attracts mountaineers from all over the world, many of whom traverse all four peaks. This takes about seven days to complete and is a highly popular challenge.

But it is not just the climbing that has made these mountains famous. On 13 November 1985 at precisely 21.08 Nevado del Ruiz erupted – with catastrophic results. Within four hours vast lava flows had travelled over 100km, leaving total devastation in their wake. More than 23,000 people were killed and more than 5,000 injured. The town of Armero (population 27,500) at the mouth of the Río Lagunillas canyon was hardest hit, disappearing entirely under the mud. Thousands of villagers along the Chinchiná, Gualí and Lagunillas rivers fled in fear as their homes surrendered to the lahars.

San Andrés Archipelago

Colombia’s only oceanic department – the West Indies department – is one of the most isolated island regions in the Americas, located 800km northeast of the Colombian mainland, just 150km from the Nicaraguan coast. Laid-back locals pride themselves on being barefoot champions of leisure in a calypso culture that is a world away from fast-paced Bogotá. Warm Caribbean waters are home to a cluster of palm-scattered atolls, islets and cays in an archipelago where 300,000km 2  forms the main constituent of a UNESCO Seaflower Biosphere Reserve (Reserva de la Biosfera Seaflower). Fertile waters, grass beds and mangrove-clad lagoons host a magnificent array of bird species with isolated soft-sand beaches and undisturbed coral reefs rich in underwater flora and fauna.

Three inhabited islands form the archipelago’s geographical and spiritual heart, as immortalised in the lyrics of Colombian musician Francisco Zumaque’s catchy chart-topper ‘San Andrés’. Around them lie five uninhabited atolls to the north and two to the south with a liberal scattering of sandbanks and cays in between, including the submerged islet of Alicia Shoal.

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For more information, see our guide to Colombia :

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Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel  

Colombia-venezuela border and northern colombia .

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• the Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander Department 
• all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca  
• the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño 
• within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela, except for the city of Cúcuta 

FCDO  currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. 

Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border

• Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the whale-watching towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and the tourist site of Capurganá 
• the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura  
• the western part of Cauca Department
• the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department
• the southern part of Córdoba Department
• the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department
• the southern part of Bolívar Department

Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: 

• the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca  
• the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department. 

Central Colombia 

• all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José del Guaviare 
• Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department 
• the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales 

If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company. 

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice 

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .  

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.  

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14 Things to Know Before Traveling to Colombia (Plus Video)

We are Dorene and Troy, an Ex-Marketing Executive and TV Editor couple from Canada. We’re redefining our mid-life by lifestyle redesign and full-time transformative travel. We help people who feel stuck and uninspired to make meaningful, conscious change in their life, work and travel at Travel Life Experiences . We were lucky to spend a few days with Jedd and Michelle in Medellín this year, and share some of what we love about this country.

We’ve fallen in love with Colombia. After living and traveling in this country for several months the last two years, we can’t help but share with you what we’ve seen here in this video.

And this video was made later by Jedd and Michelle with some of our Colombian friends:

We would do Colombia a disservice if we didn’t share what we learned about traveling in Colombia. There are many misconceptions about this country and here are some tips to get you prepared for your travels.

Our Top Tips and Insights to make your travel experience more meaningful:

1. it’s colombia, not columbia.

The name of this country is spelled incorrectly all the time. It’s a major pet peeve for Colombians. I recently explained to a Colombian friend that we have a province in Canada called British Columbia and a very large travel brand in the United States that is called Columbia, so it was no wonder there was some confusion, but it was explained to me as getting your own first name spelled wrong every time. To alleviate this error, there is a brand called “It’s Colombia, not Columbia” dedicated to communicating this spelling error. It’s no wonder why it’s a favorite brand, and a subtle nudge to correct any guest that doesn’t know the difference.

2. Colombians are some of the friendliest, most welcoming to visitors to their country.

We can definitely say the Colombians are hands down some of the happiest, warm and welcoming people we have met in our 20 years of travel, and this is consistent across the country. It’s partly cultural and their approach living, and for many years they claimed top country for the happiest people in the world report, even though they lived through over 50+ years of war. During your visit, it won’t take long to be greeted with warm smiles and salutations when you visit and be prepared for a greeting from total strangers walking down the street. This is one of the many things to appreciate about Colombians.

3. Stop reinforcing perceptions of Pablo Escobar, Cocaine, and Violence. There are so many positive aspects to Colombia.

Television shows like ‘Narcos’ might be your kind of entertainment, but they reinforce the dark past instead of the good about Colombia. Colombians want to move away from these perceptions and move toward transformation, optimism, and peace. In fact, the signing of the historic peace treaty in November 2016, is a clear indicator that peace is its priority. Colombians will be quick to inform you of the many good parts of their country such as its biodiversity, national parks, ocean coastlines, festivals, music, and art.

4. Colombia is safe to travel, even despite the significant police presence.

There is a significant police presence throughout Colombia, usually at every mall, major attraction, recreation centers, parks, Metro and bus stations. It may seem rather confronting at first but they are present to avoid issues not because there are issues. There is over 1 million military in Colombia and many police officers in the country; it’s no wonder given what Colombia has gone through the last 52 years. Our views of new reports in the 90’s will definitely paint a bleak view of crime in Colombia, but it has changed, and there is evidence of this wherever you go. Like any country, it is important to know where you should go and where you shouldn’t. We’ve spent considerable time in this country the last 3 years and we have not faced any issues. However, like any country, taking regular precautions is wise, its an unfamiliar country and safe keeping your valuables and walking with someone at night are wise steps to follow anywhere.

Police presence is everywhere

5. Colombians are helpful and forgiving when it comes to practicing the Spanish language.

Colombians are very patient and forgiving when travelers attempt Spanish, and better yet, they are more than willing to help. And at times, they downright go out of their way to assist you if you need help with communication. I’ve had numerous interactions, where a person walking nearby drops into my conversation to help me out with my Spanish, and they are very open to talking slower if you ask. Colombia is one country that takes the intimidation out of learning Spanish.

6. Colombia’s climate can be very different wherever you travel.

Be prepared to experience any kind of weather if you plan to travel throughout Colombia. From the high altitude cooler climate in the mountains of Bogotá, extreme heat in Cartagena and Santa Marta, to spring-like temperatures in Medellín and Bucaramanga. During our first visit here, we didn’t plan for the cool nights in Bogotá, nor the frequent rains in May, so be prepared to dress in layers.

7. Understanding the Currency and Credit Cards

Cash is king in Colombia even in large chain retailers and rarely is USD accepted. The denominations of the Colombian Peso (COP) is in thousands or “mil” in Spanish. Notes come in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000, with coins in 50, 100, 200, 500, or 1,000. Often, the ‘000’s are dropped in verbal communication and referred to as “5 mil” for 5000 COP$. It is confusing at first, but it does allow for practice in large numbers in Spanish. ATMs are widely available where ever you go. Credit cards are not widely used, and they may charge you the 5% credit card fee. During a transaction, you may be asked, “ Cuantos cuotas?” This inquiry is asking if you want to pay in installments. For one standard payment, as you would pay back home, and you would indicate one cuota.

8. How Tipping works in Colombia

Tipping is customary in Colombia and it is definitely appreciated. At the end of your service, you will be asked if you want “ propina voluntaria or servicio” , which is if you want to leave off a tip or include a 10% tip on the bill. Please consider tipping in Colombia for all services (Taxis are exempt) they are greatly appreciated and the hourly wage here is very low. There is also a unique phenomenon here known as reverse tipping or the “ ñapa” or bonus. Sometimes you get a little extra of something at no charge especially if you are a regular customer. For example, if you are at a juice bar, and there is still juice left in the blender, often you will get the rest of the juice. What a pleasant surprise to get a bonus!

9. Colombian food is not on any list of top international cuisine, but you might be surprised and delighted by it.

Colombian food can best be described in western terms as comfort food: hearty, filling and rich. We highly recommend going on a food tour, like this one , or getting a local to introduce you to the popular dishes. There are a lot of fried fast foods, but there are also excellent meals. Notable foods we loved in Colombia were Ajiaco, Sancocho, Empanadas, Patacones, Arepas con Huevo and the delicious Limonada de Coco beverage. The cuisine is worth some exploration.

The hearty dish of Bandeja Paisa – in Medellín

10. Fruit is the passion of the country, and you will understand why.

Fruit is an essential part of the diet here, and you must visit the fresh fruit markets and small shops to get the best price and supply. Juices are the staple drink for meals and also readily available is the “ salpicón’’ the perfect marriage between a fruit salad and a smoothie. Many of the fruits are not found in other countries. Our particular favorites were Guanábana, Lulo, La uchuva, Granadillas, Maracuyá (Passion Fruit), Tomate de árbol (Tree tomato), and Pitahayas (Dragon fruit). The quality of the fruit is incredible including the sweet Pineapple and Papaya, which melts in your mouth. It is the gold standard for fruit especially for us North Americans who don’t get fresh tropical fruits in our own backyard.

Colombia’s abundant fruit markets, this one is Minorista Market in Medellín.

11. Colombia is not easy for vegetarians.

Fried pork, fried chicken, and arepas are mainstays often served with every meal. Although there are vegetarian restaurants in larger centers, it’s hard to get past the quantity and price of Colombian high carb and meat dishes and snacks. There are options like rice, beans, vegetables (best to source in markets) and, of course, fruits. Often, if you mention that you are a vegetarian, they will assume that chicken or fish is acceptable for you. Just be prepared as you will need to make some modifications to your meal. In bigger cities like Bogotá, Cartagena , and Medellín, international cuisine is growing, and there are a variety of vegetarian restaurants and international options.

12. Don’t slam the car door!

When you get into a cab, you will notice how light and thin the doors are, so taxi drivers will often warn you not to slam the door, and get very upset if you do. Foreigners have a reputation of slamming car doors in this country; perhaps it is because we are used to large, sturdy and heavy doors on our own vehicles that require a forceful push. Watch if you notice this action!

13. There are lots of options for reasonably priced transit.

Take advantage of transit when you come to Colombia it is affordable, decent and in our view, the best way to see a city and the rest of the country. Often, there are no posted schedules, so you do have to ask. Be prepared to keep bills smaller than 10,000 pesos so you can get the correct change. The Medellín Metro (trains and cable cars) are the best in the country, and you can even download the schedule app. Bogotá has an extensive bus system, with their service called TransMilenio . Although rush hour is a nightmare there, plan your trip accordingly. Cabs are very reasonably priced in all cities, and they are metered to manage a consistent cost for the ride. There are other great taxi apps here, like  Easy Taxi (now Cabify) , to organize your trip. Even Uber is running in all major cities here.

14. Domestic travel is excellent.

Flights across the country are low-cost like discount airlines like VivaColombia , and often Avianca has comparable prices (and they don’t charge for all the incremental discount airline fees like Viva Colombia). Bus transit is still a great option, although travel in the country is slow with long, winding roads through the mountains. The bus system consists of comfortable western-style buses with bathrooms for longer destinations. Be prepared for loud Colombian music playing during your ride, and bring a warm shirt as the A/C may be blasting! We’ve used bus services such as Rapidochoa and ExpresoBrasilia. They are excellent services with detailed schedules on their websites. Please note that in some cases bus and airlines will not take foreign credit cards, so you have to book in person and pay with cash.

We hope these tips have helped you plan your travels to Colombia and answered some of your concerns. We hope you love Colombia as much as we do.

✈️ Protect your Colombia trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

For further reading:

– Beautiful small town destinations to visit in Colombia – Our Favorite Things about Medellin, Colombia

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Wow – you are right on #12 – Uber driver kicked us out of his car (with anger) for ‘slamming’ the door (we didn’t). Also, it seems some (1 in 20) uber drivers will request you ride in front seat in fear they will be ticketed for ‘illegal’ transport.

Colombia is my country, I am Colombian in more ways than one . Francisco de Paula Santander was my greate, grate grandfather, many things have been said about him, that are not true, it’s being proved at the moment. He was perfect in every way possible, rivals tried to make him look bad, but the truth is coming out now.

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