Colombia Destination Guide
Welcome to your adventure! This essential guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through Colombia's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.
Essential Travel Information for Colombia
Everything you need to know before your Colombian adventure
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Visa-Free Travel: Most travelers from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and the EU can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
- Entry Stamp: Ensure you receive an entry stamp in your passport to avoid issues when departing.
- Health Requirements: No vaccines are mandatory for Colombia, but some are recommended, such as Yellow Fever. Consult your doctor or travel clinic and allow 4–6 weeks for any vaccinations to take effect.
Currency & Payments
- Colombian Peso (COP) is the official currency. 1 USD ≈ 4,000 COP (approximate).
- ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas, but scarce in smaller towns. Inform your bank of travel plans and carry enough cash when leaving urban areas.
- Credit Cards: Accepted in most urban establishments, but carry cash for smaller towns.
- Currency Exchange: Exchange houses are available in cities. Your guide can help you find them.
- USD Acceptance: Some places accept USD, but many places accept cards. Carry some local currency for smaller businesses.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Number: 123
- U.S. Embassy: +57 (601) 275-2000
- Canadian Embassy: +57 (601) 657-9800
Mobile & Internet
- SIM Cards: Claro, Movistar, and Tigo offer affordable data packages. Purchase at the airport or shopping centers.
- WiFi: Easily available in hotels, cafés, and public areas in major cities. In more remote areas, access may be limited, so plan accordingly.
- Cell Coverage: Generally good in cities and urban areas, but limited in remote or mountainous regions. Activate global roaming with your provider before traveling.
- Power Adapters: Colombia uses Type A and B plugs (same as the US).
Time Zone
- Colombia follows Colombian Time (COT) – UTC -5.
- Colombia is on the same time as U.S. Eastern Time when the US is not observing Daylight Saving Time.
Climate & Weather
- Diverse Climate: Temperature varies by altitude, not season. Bogotá is cool (12-20°C), while Cartagena is hot and humid (25-32°C).
- Rainy Seasons: April-May and October-November, but varies by region.
- Andean Region: Cooler temperatures in high elevations. Bring layers!
- Caribbean Coast: Hot and humid year-round. Light, breathable clothing recommended.
Transportation
- Taxis: Available everywhere and relatively cheap. Metered in larger cities, fixed fares in smaller towns.
- Public Transit: Subways in major cities and local buses in towns and cities.
- Ride Sharing: Uber is available in major cities, including Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena. Other options include Tappsi and Cabify.
- Need help searching for a flight? We recommend Skyscanner.com to compare different routes and rates. Click here to search!
Water Safety
- Drinking Water: While tap water is generally safe in larger Colombian cities, avoid it in rural areas. It's recommended to stick to treated or filtered water to be safe.
- Bottled Water: Widely available at hotels and stores, but consider filling a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
- Ice: In reputable establishments, ice is typically made from filtered water and is safe to consume. Avoid drinks with ice in rural areas.
- Food & Produce: In rural areas, peel fruits and vegetables before eating, and ask your trip leader where you can find safe, filtered water. Some hotels may also provide water dispensers.
Packing Checklist for Colombia
Use this checklist to ensure you pack everything you need for your Colombian adventure
Travel Documents & Essentials
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa documents (if applicable)
- Flight itinerary & proof of onward travel
- Travel insurance details
- Credit/debit cards
- Local currency (Colombian Pesos)
- International driver's license (if planning to drive)
- Travel wallet or money belt
- Copies of important documents (separate from originals)
- Emergency contact information
Clothing & Accessories
- T-shirts/light tops (moisture-wicking)
- Lightweight pants/shorts
- Light, long-sleeved shirts (for sun protection)
- Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots
- Rain jacket or poncho (especially in rainy seasons)
- Swimwear (for Caribbean coast and hot springs)
- Light sweater or jacket (for cooler Andean regions)
- Sunglasses & sun hat
- Sandals/flip-flops
- One smart-casual outfit (for nicer restaurants/events)
Health & Safety
- Prescription medications (in original packaging)
- Basic first-aid kit
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Hand sanitizer/wet wipes
- Altitude sickness medication (for Andean regions)
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Water purification tablets/filter
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal toiletries
Electronics & Gadgets
- Power adapter (Type A/B - same as US plugs)
- Smartphone & charger
- Camera & charger
- Portable charger/power bank
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag
- Headphones
- E-reader or books for downtime
- Travel locks for luggage
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Offline maps or apps (Maps.me is great for Colombia)
Packing Tips
- Pack light! Laundry services are affordable throughout Colombia.
- Always carry a small day bag with essentials when exploring.
- Bring a reusable shopping bag for souvenirs and to reduce plastic waste.
- Keep valuables in your carry-on luggage, not in checked bags.
Top Destinations & Experiences
Discover the incredible places you'll visit during your Colombian adventure
Bogotá
Colombia's cosmopolitan capital blends colonial history with urban sophistication, set against the stunning backdrop of Andean peaks.
Must-See Attractions:
- La Candelaria – Wander through the historic district with colorful colonial buildings.
- Museo del Oro – Home to the world's largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
- Monserrate – Ascend to this mountain peak for panoramic city views.
- Paloquemao Market – Experience local culture and taste exotic fruits.
Medellín & Coffee Region
Once notorious, now innovative Medellín and the nearby Coffee Region offer lush landscapes, a perfect climate, and warm hospitality.
Regional Highlights:
- Plaza Botero – Admire the famous sculptures by Fernando Botero.
- Guatapé – Climb El Peñol rock for breathtaking views of the colorful lakeside town.
- Coffee Farms – Learn about coffee production from bean to cup.
- Valle de Cocora – Hike among the world's tallest palm trees.
Cartagena & Caribbean Coast
Explore Cartagena's romantic walled city and discover the pristine beaches and jungles of Colombia's Caribbean coastline.
Coastal Highlights:
- Walled City – Stroll through the colorful streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Castillo San Felipe – Explore the imposing fortress with underground tunnels.
- Rosario Islands – Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of this archipelago.
- Tayrona National Park – Hike through the jungle to reach secluded beaches.
Must-Try Foods
Colombia offers diverse culinary delights influenced by indigenous, Spanish, and African traditions. Here are some dishes you shouldn't miss:
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Empanadas
Savory fried pastries filled with meat, potatoes, or cheese.
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Ajiaco
Rich chicken and potato soup with corn, avocado, and cream.
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Bandeja Paisa
Hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, plantain, avocado, and egg.
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Arepas
Grilled corn cakes often filled with cheese or meat.
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Cazuela de Mariscos
Creamy seafood stew popular on the Caribbean coast.
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Colombian Coffee
World-famous coffee known for its rich, mild flavor.
Local Culture & Responsible Travel
Tips for respectful travel and cultural awareness during your adventure
Cultural Etiquette
- Greetings: Colombians are warm and friendly. A handshake is common in business settings, while friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek.
- Personal Space: Colombians tend to stand closer when conversing than North Americans or Europeans might be used to.
- Punctuality: Social gatherings often run on "Colombian time" - arriving 15-30 minutes late is common and acceptable.
- Dress: Colombians often dress well, especially in cities. Shorts are rarely worn in urban areas except at the coast.
- Language: Spanish is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases will be greatly appreciated.
Responsible Tourism
- Environmental Impact: Use refillable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
- Support Local: Buy souvenirs from local artisans and eat at locally-owned restaurants.
- Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially indigenous communities.
- Wildlife: Don't support attractions that exploit wildlife for entertainment or photos.
- Cultural Respect: Learn about Colombia's complex history and avoid stereotypes.
⚠️ Important Safety Note
Colombia is much safer than its historical reputation suggests, but it's important to exercise normal precautions. Stay in tourist areas, especially at night; use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps; keep valuables secure; and follow local advice about which areas to avoid.
Additional Travel Tips
- Language: Download a Spanish translation app to help with communication.
- Transportation: Use apps like Uber, DiDi, or Cabify for safer city transit.
- Money: Always have some small bills on hand for small purchases.
- Altitude: Bogotá sits at 8,660 feet. Take it easy upon arrival to adjust.
- Copies: Keep digital copies of important documents in your email.
- Tipping: Check your bill for "propina"—a service charge.
- Toilets: Western-style flush toilets are common, but toilet paper isn’t always provided and should never be flushed. Use the wastebaskets instead.
Luggage Restrictions
