COLOMBIA

Colombia, a land of vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, boasts a rich history spanning ancient indigenous civilizations, Spanish colonization, and a path to independence. Geographically diverse, it’s the only South American nation with both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, home to Andean peaks, Amazon rainforest, and vast plains.

Region: Northwestern South America, with insular regions in North America (Caribbean)

Capital: Bogotá

Official Language: Spanish

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to violent crime, terrorism, and civil unrest. Higher risks exist in border areas and specific departments. Remain vigilant and informed.

A map of North and South America, with Colombia highlighted in green.

Why Visit Colombia?

Diversity of Landscapes: From Caribbean beaches (Tayrona) to Andean peaks (Cocora Valley) and Amazon jungle.

Coffee Culture: Tour fincas (farms) in the Eje Cafetero (Coffee Triangle).

Colonial Charm: Cartagena’s walled city and Bogotá’s La Candelaria.

An aerial view of a large lake with numerous small, green islands.

Vibrant Cities: Medellín’s innovation, Cali’s salsa, Bogotá’s arts.

Affordable Luxury: World-class dining and hotels at fraction of U.S./Europe prices.

Friendly Locals: Colombians are famously welcoming (“La tierra de la sabrosura”).

A colorful street scene with brightly painted buildings and flowers on balconies.

Essential Trip Information

Colombia allows visa-free entry for tourists from many countries (including the U.S., EU, UK, Canada, Australia) for stays of up to 90 days.

Check official requirements for your nationality: Migración Colombia.

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation, or sufficient funds (~US$50/day).

Overstaying fines apply (~US$30–100).

  • Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP). Bills: 2,000–100,000 COP. Coins: 50–1,000 COP.

  • Exchange rate (approx.): US$1 = 3,900 COP (check current rates before travel).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer better rates.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (Bancolombia, Davivienda). Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) accepted in cities, but carry cash for rural areas.

  • What to Avoid: Street money changers (scams) and dynamic currency conversion (always choose COP).

Spanish is the official language. English is limited outside tourist areas.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you).
  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much?), “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?).

Generally safe, but be cautious in crowded areas (pickpockets) and avoid isolated neighborhoods at night.

High-risk areas: Consult locals/U.S. State Department advisories.

Emergency number: 123 (police), 125 (ambulance).

Vaccinations: Yellow fever (for Amazon/coastal regions), Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended.

Tap water is safe in cities; use bottled water in rural areas.

Travel insurance is advised (healthcare is affordable but quality varies).

Buses: Cheap and extensive; long-distance rides can be bumpy.

Metro: Only in Medellín (US$0.80/ride).

Taxis: Use apps (Uber, Beat) or official taxis (ask for meters).

Domestic flights: Save time (Avianca, LATAM, Viva Air).

Colombia is affordable by Western standards, but tourist hotspots (Cartagena, Bogotá) can be pricier.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$10–30/night).

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$40–80/night).

  • Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (US$100+/night).

Food

  • Quick eats: Empanadas (US$1–2), street arepas (1–3).

  • Casual dining: US$5–15/person.

  • Fine dining: US$20–50/person.

Drinks

  • Beer: US$1–3(bars), 0.50–1 (supermarkets).

  • Coffee: US$1–3 (even premium!).

  • Cocktails: US$4–10.

Transportation

  • Buses: Intercity (US$5–20); 0.50–1).

  • Taxis/Uber: Short rides (US$3–10).

  • Domestic flights: US$50–150 (e.g., Bogotá to Medellín).

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local markets (e.g., Paloquemao in Bogotá).

  • Use public buses over taxis in cities.

  • Book hostels with free breakfast.

Explore Colombia

This vibrant colonial city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its colorful architecture, historic walled city, and charming plazas. It’s located in the northern part of the country, directly on the Caribbean Sea.

As Colombia’s sprawling capital, located high in the Andes mountains in the central region, Bogotá offers a rich cultural experience with world-class museums like the Gold Museum, historic neighborhoods like La Candelaria, and a burgeoning culinary scene.

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate, Medellín is nestled in a valley in the Andes mountains, in the northwestern part of Colombia. It’s celebrated for its innovative urban development, vibrant nightlife, and the famous Metrocable system offering panoramic city views.

This breathtaking national park in the Caribbean region, east of Santa Marta, combines pristine white-sand beaches with lush tropical rainforest and archaeological sites of the ancient Tayrona civilization, offering incredible natural beauty and hiking opportunities.

Located in the central mountainous region of Colombia, this area is a picturesque landscape of rolling green hills, traditional coffee farms, and charming towns like Salento and Filandia, offering immersive coffee experiences and stunning scenery.

One of the oldest surviving cities in South America, Santa Marta sits on the Caribbean coast in northern Colombia. It’s a gateway to various attractions, including Tayrona National Park, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, and Minca.

A picturesque town known for its colorful zócalos (frescoes on building facades) and the impressive Piedra del Peñol, a monolithic rock offering panoramic views. It’s located about 2 hours east of Medellín in the Antioquia department.

Recognized as the “Salsa Capital of the World,” Cali is a lively city in southwestern Colombia, known for its vibrant music scene, energetic dance clubs, and delicious local cuisine. It’s surrounded by sugarcane fields and offers a warm, tropical atmosphere.

A beautifully preserved colonial town in the Boyacá department, in the central eastern part of the country. Villa de Leyva boasts one of the largest main plazas in South America, cobblestone streets, and a relaxed, historic ambiance.

As the gateway to the Colombian Amazon, Leticia is a bustling port city located in the far southern tip of Colombia, bordering Brazil and Peru. It’s the starting point for incredible wildlife encounters, river tours, and cultural immersion with indigenous communities.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Lush Landscapes
  • Whale Watching (Pacific Coast, specific months)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Frequent Afternoon Showers
  • Some Outdoor Activities May Be Limited (e.g., muddy trails)
  • Higher Humidity in Coastal Areas
  • Reduced Sunshine Hours

Key Regions:

  • Bogotá: Experience museums and indoor attractions without the usual crowds.
  • Medellín: Enjoy the “City of Eternal Spring” with occasional refreshing rain.
  • Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero): Witness vibrant green landscapes due to rainfall.
  • Pacific Coast: Ideal for whale watching from July to October, overlapping with this season.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (less extreme than peak or low)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (varies by month)
  • Good Balance of Activities

Main Drawbacks:

  • Can still experience some rain, especially in June and September.
  • Prices start to rise as you approach peak season.
  • Some popular destinations can still be busy on weekends or public holidays.

Key Regions:

  • Cartagena: Enjoy warm, less humid weather before the intense peak season.
  • Tayrona National Park: Lush and beautiful with fewer crowds than peak times.
  • San Gil (Adventure Capital): Good conditions for outdoor sports like rafting and paragliding.
  • Salento & Cocora Valley: Perfect for hiking with pleasant temperatures and fewer hikers.
  • Mid-December – Mid-January (Christmas and New Year holidays)
  • Late March – Early April (Semana Santa/Easter Week)
  • July – August (Summer holidays for international travelers)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A handshake or cheek kiss (one, right cheek) is common.

Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants (check if service is included).

Dress Code: Casual but modest—avoid flashy jewelry in cities.

Safety: Don’t walk alone at night in certain areas; use common sense.

Punctuality: Colombians are relaxed about time—expect delays.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$10–30), hotels 50–150), luxury (US$200+).

Food: Street food (US$2–5), casual meal 8–15), fine dining (US$30+).

Transport: Buses (US$5–20), flights (50–100), taxis (US$3–10/short ride).

Activities: Free (beaches, plazas), tours (US$20–50), 80+).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$30–50 (hostels, street food, buses).

  • Mid-range: US$70–120 (hotels, restaurants, tours).

  • Luxury: US$200+ (boutique stays, private guides).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in malls, cafes, and hostels (spotty in rural areas).

SIM Cards: Claro/Movistar (US$5–10 for 5GB data).

eSIMs: Supported (Airalo, Holafly).

Highly recommended—covers theft, medical emergencies, and adventure activities.

Check coverage for hiking (e.g., Lost City Trek), scuba diving, or motorbike rentals.

U.S. credit cards may offer limited coverage—verify before traveling.

From hostels to luxury stays, Colombia caters to all budgets.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Sofitel Cartagena, Click Clack (Medellín) – US$150–300/night.
  • Mid-range: Hotel Dann Carlton (Bogotá), Casa San Agustín (Cartagena) – US$80–150.
  • Budget: Ibis, Hotel Dorado (US$30–70).

Hostels:

  • Selina (Medellín, Cartagena) – social vibe, US$15–30/bed.
  • Masaya (Bogotá, Santa Marta) – great for backpackers.

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Best for groups—colonial homes in Cartagena (US$60–150/night).

Tip: Book ahead during festivals (December–January, Holy Week).

Colombia’s transport varies from modern to rustic—plan ahead.

Domestic Flights:

  • Fastest option for long distances (e.g., Bogotá to Cartagena, ~1.5 hrs, US$50–100).
  • Airlines: Avianca, LATAM, Viva Air (budget).

Buses:

  • Comfortable long-distance buses (e.g., Bogotá to Medellín, ~9 hrs, US$25–40).
  • Avoid night buses in risky areas; use reputable companies (e.g., Expreso Bolivariano).

Taxis/Rideshares:

  • Use apps (Uber, Didi, Cabify) or official taxis (request via hotels).
  • Always check the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

Metro (Medellín):

  • Clean, efficient, and safe (US$0.80/ride). Connects to cable cars for stunning views.

Rental Cars:

  • Not recommended for first-timers—mountain roads can be dangerous.

Handy Tips

Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP), with bills in 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 denominations. Coins include 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 COP.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks (poor rates). Use ATMs (labeled “ATH”) or banks for better rates.

  • Using Cards: Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in cities, but carry cash for small towns, markets, or taxis.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated.

    • Restaurants/Bars: 10% if service isn’t included (check the bill).

    • Taxis: Round up or tip 1,000–2,000 COP.

    • Tour Guides: 10,000–20,000 COP per day for group tours.

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas, but basic phrases help:

  • “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where’s the bathroom?)

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much is this?)

  • “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).
    Pro Tip: Colombians are warm—greet with “buenos días/tardes” and a smile.

Colombia is safer than its reputation, but stay cautious in crowded areas (e.g., Bogotá’s La Candelaria, Medellín’s El Centro). Avoid flashing valuables.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 123: Police/General emergencies.
  • 125: Ambulance.
  • #767: Tourist police (English-speaking).
  • Your embassy: Keep details handy (major cities have U.S./EU consulates).

Colombia uses 120V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs (two flat pins or three pins). Bring an adapter if needed.

Tap water is generally safe in cities (Bogotá, Medellín), but stick to bottled water in rural areas. Ask for “agua sin gas” (still water) to avoid carbonated.

Major closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day.

  • 6 Jan: Three Kings’ Day (some closures).

  • March/April: Holy Week (Semana Santa; major processions).

  • 1 May: Labor Day.

  • 20 July: Independence Day (parades!).

  • 7 Aug: Battle of Boyacá.

  • 25 Dec: Christmas.
    Note: Transport and hotels book up fast during holidays.

Stores: 9:00–20:00 (malls open later; smaller shops close for siesta 12:00–14:00).

Markets: Paloquemao (Bogotá) or Bazurto (Cartagena) for fresh fruit/artisans.

Pharmacies: Droguerías like Farmatodo often 24/7 in cities.

Bandeja Paisa: Hearty Antioquian platter with beans, chicharrón, egg, rice, and avocado.

Arepas: Corn cakes vary by region (try stuffed with cheese or eggs in coastal areas).

Ajiaco: Bogotá’s signature chicken and potato soup, with corn and guascas herbs.

Tamales Tolimenses: Banana-leaf wrapped parcels of corn dough with meat and vegetables.

Empanadas: Fried corn pockets filled with beef, chicken, or cheese, best with spicy ají sauce.

Lechona: Slow-roasted pork stuffed with rice and peas—typically from Tolima.

Mote de Queso: Caribbean coastal soup made with yam and salty cheese.

Postre de Natas: Creamy dessert made from boiled milk skin, cinnamon, and sugar.

Obleas: Wafer sandwiches filled with arequipe (Colombian dulce de leche), jam, and cheese.

Cocadas: Chewy coconut treats found in Cartagena and other coastal areas.

Alcoholic:

  • Aguardiente: Anise-flavored national liquor, especially popular in Antioquia and Cundinamarca.

  • Canelazo: Spiced hot drink with aguardiente, sugar, and cinnamon—common in mountain regions.

  • Refajo: Mix of beer and Colombiana soda—refreshing and perfect for BBQs.

  • Sabajón: Colombian eggnog-style drink, often made with aguardiente or rum.

  • Ron Medellín: Locally produced aged rum—smooth and often sipped straight.

  • Club Colombia: Premium beer brand with Blonde, Red, and Black varieties.

  • Águila: Light national lager—ubiquitous and beloved at soccer games and beach parties.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Tinto: Small, strong black coffee—ubiquitous and part of daily Colombian life.

  • Lulada: Cali’s refreshing drink made from mashed lulo fruit, lime, and sugar.

  • Agua de Panela: Sweet drink made from melted unrefined cane sugar—served hot or cold.

  • Salpicón: Fruit cocktail drink with soda—colorful and sweet.

  • Colombiana: Creamy soda with a unique bubblegum/cola hybrid flavor.

Museo del Oro: Bogotá’s dazzling gold museum, showcasing pre-Columbian craftsmanship.

Ciudad Perdida: “Lost City” ruins in the Sierra Nevada—older than Machu Picchu.

Cartagena’s Walled City: UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets and vibrant façades.

Carnaval de Barranquilla: One of the world’s biggest carnivals—music, masks, and tradition.

Medellín’s Comuna 13: Former no-go zone turned street art and urban innovation hub.

Popayán: Colonial city known for Holy Week processions and white-washed churches.

San Basilio de Palenque: First free African town in the Americas—living Afro-Colombian culture.

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral: Underground church carved into a salt mine—both spiritual and surreal.

Tejo: National sport involving metal discs, beer, and explosive targets—try it with locals.

Wayuu Culture: Indigenous community of La Guajira, famous for their woven mochilas and myths.

Dance in Cali: Salsa capital of the world—lessons, live music, and late-night clubs.

Street Art Tours: Bogotá and Medellín offer vibrant, politically charged murals worth exploring.

Island Hopping in San Andrés: Snorkel in “The Sea of Seven Colors.”

River Rafting in San Gil: Colombia’s adventure capital for adrenaline seekers.

Coffee Farm Stays: Sleep among lush plantations in Salento or Manizales.

Beach Time in Palomino: Relaxed vibe with hammocks and surf on the Caribbean coast.

Paragliding over Chicamocha Canyon: Unmatched views and sheer drops.

Open-air cable cars in Medellín: Ride through mountain neighborhoods with stunning views.

Amazon Rainforest Treks: Guided excursions from Leticia into pristine jungle.

Tayrona Park Hikes: Jungle trails lead to untouched Caribbean beaches and ancient ruins.

Andrés Carne de Res (Chía/Bogotá): Part steakhouse, part carnival, all-night fiesta.

Café Havana (Cartagena): Live salsa band, dancing locals, and mojitos until dawn.

La Octava (Bogotá): Speakeasy-style bar with swings and neon art.

El Poblado (Medellín): Rooftop bars, mixology lounges, and vibrant street life.

BBC (Bogotá Beer Company): Colombian craft beer in cozy pubs across the country.

Alambique (Medellín): Creative cocktails in a library-themed lounge.

Santa Bárbara (Cali): Hip neighborhood with bars fusing music and dance.

Mistica (Cartagena): Caribbean-style cocktail bar with beachy vibes.

La Topa Tolondra (Cali): Authentic salsa bar—no frills, just rhythm.

Bogotá’s Zona T: Upscale nightlife zone with fashion-forward clubs and gourmet drinks.