preparing to travel to colombia

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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12 Things to Know Before Traveling to Colombia

Are you planning on visiting Colombia? Then you’ll probably find these travel tips for Colombia useful!

Colombia, a country with beautiful nature and generally very friendly people. But a country that at the same time many people, including my parents, think is dangerous and a place to avoid.

I was very excited though to explore this country and to be able to form my own opinions. I spent a month as a digital nomad in Medellin , Colombia’s second-largest city,  and several weeks traveling around the country.

Before I traveled to Colombia I wondered what the main things you should know about Colombia are.

To find out I spoke to many experienced travelers, local Colombians, and expats currently living in Colombia . That resulted in a lot of information about traveling in Colombia, safety in Colombia and other travel tips.

The most important advice I received, and several travel tips for Colombia I want to share with you here.

1. Don’t Worry Too Much About Safety but Follow a Few Rules

By Sue & Mike from 197travelstamps.com

“Murder, drug trafficking, kidnapping, and corruption – we’ve all heard some crazy stories about safety in Colombia. But, in contrast to popular belief, traveling through Colombia is actually not very dangerous.

The safety situation has greatly improved over the last few years.

You will be very unlikely to have any problems if you follow these basic safety rules :

• Don’t carry valuables like jewelry and cash in plain sight. If you have an expensive camera, consider using an unremarkable bag to carry it and check your surroundings before using it.  
• When you walk on the side of the road, don’t carry your bag on the side facing the street. Robberies from motorbike riders happen every now and then.
• Don’t use (unlicensed) street taxis. Download the Uber or Cabify app to order taxis. The drivers are registered and so is every single ride you take.
• Don’t walk around at night, use a taxi.

Once you get to Colombia, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the country and the kindness of the people.

You won’t have to worry too much about safety. If you still have doubts, ask the staff at your hotel or the Airbnb owner about safety tips – they will know best.”

Also Read: Staying Safe While Traveling – Practical Tips

2. The Temperature in Colombia Depends on Altitude Rather Than Time of Year

By Carlitos from Casa Hotel San Pedro

“Since Colombia is a tropical country, there are no seasons, so temperature depends on altitude rather than the time of the year.

For example, Bogotá has a pleasantly cool temperature during the day with chilly nights, while Cartagena has very hot and humid days and warm nights.

Any multi-city trip to Colombia requires a full range of clothes to prepare for all of these temperatures.”

3. Learn to Be Patient Like a Local

“The pace of life is different in Colombia.

If you are from a Western country, you may be used to the fast-running clockwork that is life in your country. Little things like a delayed train or a long queue at the supermarket are major annoyances.

Life is different in Colombia. Sometimes a little less organized, a little less on time, and sometimes just plain chaotic.

A delay of a bus or a flight of several hours without any information or updates from staff would cause major riots in many Western countries. In Colombia, nobody will get nervous over something like this and people will just continue talking and socializing until the situation straightens itself out.

If you find yourself in such a situation, keep cool and try to learn from the patience of the locals.”

4. Learn Some Spanish – a Few Words Go a Long Way

By James, an expat in Colombia, and Sue & Mike

Mike: “English isn’t widely spoken in Colombia.

Hotel staff usually do speak some English and they will be able to help you out with most things you may need if you don’t speak any Spanish. But I would recommend you learn a few words before you travel to Colombia, and bring a phrasebook.

The locals definitely appreciate any effort you make towards speaking their language and your travel experience will be so much more genuine if you can ask the old man on the bus next to you about his day.”

James: “If you already speak Spanish, look up Colombian slang on the internet. It doesn’t take long and helps a lot.”

5. Cocaine is a Taboo in Colombia

By Karin from GirlAstray.com

“When Colombians travel abroad they inevitably face questions and jokes about cocaine. Sometimes, people even directly ask them for drugs.

However, cocaine is a big taboo in Colombian society as the conflict it initiated has taken an immense toll on the people and many families lost their loved ones.

In Bogota, although drugs are easy to find for those who are looking for them, the area of the “L” street where illegal substances and services are sold is dangerous and full of crime.

When traveling to Colombia, avoid joking about drugs or suggesting that locals use cocaine regularly as it is very insulting. Besides, most of the white powder is exported to the USA and Europe anyway.

It goes without saying that you won’t make a great impression if you start a discussion about Pablo Escobar armed with only what you learned from the Narcos series either!

Avoiding judgmental comments and perhaps this topic altogether is usually the safest way to avoid hurting someone’s pride and feelings.”

6. Communication Works Differently in Colombia

By Rebecca and Michele, expats living in Colombia, and Carlitos, a Colombian

Rebecca: “I find that language tends to be more formal here.

I tend to be really short in my communication. I’ll text someone exactly what’s on my mind. For example, “So today we are really going to need XYZ and do ABC.”

I will get back, “Buenos Días, como estás? Como estás tu familia?” Tu perrito? Tús hijos? ( “Good morning, how are you? How is your family? Your dog? Your kids?” ). You can’t skip the greeting and formality for the sake of efficiency and brevity. Even in short face-to-face encounters.”

Michele: “Yes, this drives me crazy. My professors at the university told me that they knew I was a gringa ( foreigner ) before even meeting me based on the short, to the point, almost cold, emails I would send them asking some questions.”

Carlitos:  Yes, that’s Colombia. Also don’t just say “hola” (“ hello” ). “Muy buenas tardes, señora” (“ a very good afternoon, madam” ) is much more the local custom.”

7. Mañana Does Not Mean Tomorrow

By Susan and Luis, expats living in Colombia

Susan: “Mañana does not mean tomorrow here… it’s more like some time in the future.”

Luis: “And “ahora” ( “now” ) means sometime in the next hours. If you want something to be done right now, you have to use “ya” ( “already” ).

This difference and the excessive politeness drives me crazy as a Spaniard with a more direct Spanish language.”

8. Transportation and Money in Colombia

By Rick and Beth, expats in Colombia

Rick: “Taxis and buses go anywhere in the country and are very inexpensive. However, Palomino, on the Caribbean coast, does not have any taxis, nor ATMs.

Long-distance buses are comfortable, have air conditioning and sometimes even wifi.

Latam and Wingo airlines are very inexpensive compared to other airlines. For example, a one-way flight from Bogota to Barranquilla may cost as little as US$ 35.  Viva Colombia is another low-cost airline worth checking out.

ATMs are in English and Spanish and the surcharge is about equal to US$ 3.00.”

Beth: “Bring a debit card to get cash, and be sure to let your bank know where you will be.

Using ATMs is a much better option than trying to exchange money.”

9. Tipping in Colombia

By Rebecca and Linnea, expats in Colombia

Rebecca: “In most restaurants I am familiar with in Bogota, the tip is included in the bill (normally 10%). That tip is spread amongst all the staff.

So if you want to give something extra to just your waiter, which seems to be more optional, that needs to be separate.”

Linnea: “Many of the smaller more typical Colombian places will neither ask nor expect a tip usually.

With that being said, of course, one should tip something if the service was good. But it’s not mandatory, like in some other countries.”

10. Wear Sunscreen

By David, an expat in Colombia

“Use sunscreen!!! Because Colombia is located close to the equator the sun is strong.

Even in a place like Bogota where the air is cool, the sun is incredibly intense.”

Also Read: 15 Of The Best Beaches in The World – including 2 beaches in Colombia!

11. Keep Your Cool in Colombia

By Steven and Shantideva, living in Colombia

Steven: “Like many other cultures throughout the world, Colombians do not like public displays of anger, frustration, or drama. It is considered very unattractive and unwanted here.  

If a gringo ( foreigner ) displays any loss of composure he/she will likely be tuned out, ignored as low class, or generally be dismissed.

In my area, they will look at you as if you are a crazy person or simply ignore you as if you are literally not there at all.”

Shantideva: “In Barranquilla you’ll have 2 kinds of reactions if you show anger in public:

• You’ll be totally ignored.
• You’ll be punched in the face by a local who thought your anger was directed at him.”

12. Enjoy the Beauty of Colombia

By Mary and Janwillem, living in Colombia

Mary: “Colombia is music, salsa, rumba, everywhere. It doesn’t matter what time, for what reason or how many people there are, the people always sing and dance.

There is always a reason to move your hips. And you either join in or you miss out.

Colombia is the country where all taxi drivers seem to be listening to Olímpica Estéreo ( radio station ) which makes me feel like I live in the center of the Caribbean.”

Janwillem: “Try to visit some villages, the beauty of this country is not in the cities at all. it is outside. Come and visit Tamesis, where I choose to live after 11 years in Colombia.”

Colombia has a lot to offer with its incredible diversity in landscapes and cultures.

From historical cities to cute little towns. Lush jungle, snow-capped volcanoes, rocky deserts, endless plains, gorgeous beaches, coffee and cocoa plantations and alpine lakes.

I hope you found this list of things to know about Colombia useful. And if you are traveling to Colombia soon, enjoy exploring this beautiful country!

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• Interview About Expat Life in Medellín
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• Interview About Living in Cali, Colombia
• What It’s Like to Move to & Live in Cartagena, Colombia

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1 thought on “12 Things to Know Before Traveling to Colombia”

Very well written, thanks for the tips! Indeed, Colombia has come a long way since the time of the roaring drug trade, and is today one of the most enjoyable countries in South America.However, there are tourist-targeting scammers and petty crime to be wary of.

Do be wary of the gold / emerald shop price scam, fake towel charge, airport unofficial taxi robbery, carjacking, drug set-up, fraudulent money changers, unsolicited tours, hostel attacks and many more!

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Things To Know Before Traveling To Colombia: An Essential Guide

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Are you looking to plan the perfect trip to Colombia?

There’s no denying that this beautiful South American country has a lot to offer, from its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, to its delicious cuisine.

But before you take off on your adventure, there are a few key things you should know!

As someone who has been living in Colombia for the past three years and honing my travel skills along the way, I’m here to provide you with an essential guide of everything you need to know before traveling here.

In this article, I’ll cover topics ranging from what type of visa and currency documents you will need; how best (and safest!) to navigate around Colombia; where I like to stay while visiting different cities; language tips; must-see attractions – and even some Colombian etiquette basics.

By the end of this article, it won’t just feel like another fun vacation – but rather a confident journey through one of Latin America’s most incredible countries!

Table of Contents

Must-See Places

Colombia is packed full of amazing places!

If you’re looking for pristine beaches, look no further than Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean Coast.

If you’d like to explore some more cosmopolitan locations head over to Medellin or Bogota – both are absolute must-sees!

Or if its adventure that your after then zip line through coffee plantations in Salento or hike up one of the many volcanoes throughout the region.

No matter what type of traveler you are, Colombia has something for everyone!

Safety Tips For Travelers

As with all countries, safety should be a priority when traveling around Colombia – especially if venturing off into rural areas or taking part in extreme sports activities such as white water rafting or scuba diving.

Research beforehand about any potential risks associated with certain regions and plan accordingly – book organized tours rather than going alone whenever possible.

Be sure also not carry large amounts cash around as pickpockets do exist here even though violent crime rates have dropped significantly since 2003 when paramilitary groups were disbanded across much of Latin America.

Colombian Culture & Customs

Colombians are known for their cheerful nature and friendly disposition; they love nothing more than socializing over good food while sharing stories from near and far!

Take some time out during your travels to mix with locals – learn about their culture by visiting local markets or exploring indigenous communities – just remember that respect should always come first whether it’s within interactions between people from different backgrounds or simply how restaurants handle tipping etiquette: 10% is usually enough but check before paying up!

Top Restaurants In Colombia

Aside from indulging yourself in delicious traditional dishes such as Bandeja Paisa (rice beans pork sausage plantain avocado egg), don’t miss out sample international fare at some top restaurants located throughout cities like Bogota: The award-winning Criterion Restaurant offers an exquisite fusion menu featuring dishes ranging from veal medallions smothered cheese sauce served alongside risotto balls stuffed bacon mushrooms while El Corazon del Chef serves up classic Spanish tapas accompanied homemade sangria made according their own secret recipe!

Historic Sites In Colombia

Last but certainly not least on our list are some key historical sites worth considering during your journey through Colombia: Encounter ancient artifacts at Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) Bogota where Pre-Columbian gold pieces dating back thousands years displayed prominently alongside other archaeological relics spanning various eras all way contemporary art galleries Casa de Nariño Presidential Palace Cartagena which originally built 17th century later restored 19th century architecture style following extensive renovation project.

Before you go…

Now you know Things To Know Before Traveling To Colombia: An Essential Guide, but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like Colombia. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Colombian journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.

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Travel Tips for Colombia – 25 Things to Know Before You Go

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Colombia is an incredible country to visit. It’s filled with breathtaking beauty, diverse natural habitats, amazing architecture, and incredible people. You will find very quickly that you benefit from travel tips for Colombia before you go, so you’re prepared for this adventure.

Some helpful tips will make your visit easier and safer. They will also make your trip a lot more fun if you know about them beforehand. (So, good for you for researching in advance and finding this post!)

This is my list of the top 25 best travel tips for Colombia to be sure you have a great time and are well prepared. I spent several weeks touring the country, and want you to have as great of an experience as I did!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read  the full disclosure  for more information.

25 Helpful Travel Tips for Colombia

Going to a developing country takes some extra planning, and it’s a bit different from what you may be used to. I encourage you to consider going to more local-type establishments to get to know the real Colombia instead of staying in 5-star resorts and not leaving the property.

To enjoy the trip, you will want to do some preparation in advance, and these Colombia travel tips will be helpful for when you arrive and you are traveling around.

The first five is a list of Colombia travel tips that will be great to know before you leave, though they can help you while you’re in Colombia as well. The remainder will be helpful while you’re traveling.

One thing to keep in mind is that many of these travel tips for Colombia apply to many Latin American countries. So, flag this page for future trips!

1. Learn Some Basic Spanish

Most Colombians don’t speak English, though you can generally find someone who can help you in a pinch in larger cities like Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín.

It will be really helpful if you learn at least some basic Spanish to help you with basic things like checking into a hotel, ordering food, finding your way around, getting directions, and purchasing things.

My Spanish is pretty poor, but I know some basics, and between that, context, and pantomiming, you’d be surprised how well you can communicate.

Bring a dictionary or have Google Translate teed up on your phone. It’s one of the really helpful apps that I highly recommend and one you will make good use of in Colombia.

2. Bring Cash

You will find that credit cards aren’t widely used in Colombia, even in hotels and restaurants. They are used more often in the larger cities, but always be prepared in case cards are not accepted.

A nice hotel I stayed at in Manizales didn’t accept credit cards, and I was surprised. The good thing is that coming from many countries, the exchange rate is very favorable. You don’t need to bring a large amount to get by, and banks and ATMs are pretty easy to find.

3. Plan for Wide Swings in the Weather

You will find the weather is very diverse in Colombia if you are traveling to multiple places. Check out the weather averages before you leave and plan accordingly with what you pack.

Bogotá had lows in the 40s Fahrenheit, but Cartagena was extremely humid when I went with highs in the high 90s. I had to bring some tanks and a down jacket.

It takes some planning to be prepared for this, but you’ll be much happier if you bring what you need. Of course, you can always buy something while you’re traveling as well.

4. Visit Several Places in Colombia

I mentioned this earlier, but this is such an important tip. You can’t just go to Bogotá to really feel you’ve been to Colombia. It is so very different from Cartagena, or the small town of Salento. There is really no comparison.

Most of the Americans I met were in Cartagena , though there weren’t many of them. I did meet a family in Bogotá as well, but none during my other travels.

You will find the Colombian people overall to be very warm and friendly. There are definitely differences throughout the country in the people, the food, and what the land is like.

Do yourself a favor and really get to know and enjoy Colombia and all of its amazing variety. And it’s a good idea to get off the “Gringo path” to see what Colombia is all about. Of course, go to Cartagena, Bogota, and Medellin, but treat yourself to someone else as well!

5. Don’t Drink the Water

Anyone who does their research before going to Colombia will find this, but there’s actually a little more to it than simply drinking water. People have a tendency to forget when eating fruits and vegetables.

You can’t eat anything that was rinsed in water. The only way you can in order to ensure you won’t get sick is if it’s peeled or cooked. I have seriously never wanted to eat a salad as much as when I travel to countries where I can’t drink water!

Also, you can’t have ice. So, think about it when you get your favorite soda and ditch the ice. You’ll be happier for it.

6. Keep Mum About the Man from Medellín

Yes, you know the one I mean. Him . He’s much of the reason why Colombia got its bad rap to begin with, so the people overall aren’t fond of him and don’t want to talk about him. The Colombians are very proud and want to put it behind them. Let them.

You may get some strong reactions if you do mention him, so if you do so, do it quietly.

Do the country a favor and skip the tours dedicated to him. It’s just not a good practice to support this kind of tourism. Colombians want to forget him, so please let them.

7. Use the Trash Bin Next to the Toilet for Paper

In Colombia, people dispose of paper in the trash bin, and they don’t flush it. This is because most of the country has septic systems and old creaky pipes.

You don’t want to be that person who clogs the pipes. So, do the kind thing and toss your trash in the bin they kindly left for you.

8. Always Carry Hand Sanitizer and Toilet Paper

While we’re on the fun subject of toileting, here’s another good idea for you. You will often find bathrooms don’t have toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to have some with you. And when they do have paper, they may not have a seat on the toilet.

You will want to buy a lottery ticket if you find a bathroom with toilet paper, a seat, paper towels, or a working hand dryer.

9. Take Day Tours to Learn the Area

If you can find a reasonably-priced day tour (with no “gringo tax”), they are a great idea. You get an insider’s perspective about the area, and it’s nice to have help navigating, as public transportation in Colombia can be really challenging.

I took a day tour from Cartagena to the town of Palenque , a trip to the colorful Guatapé from Medellín , and went on a Zipaquira Salt Cathedral day trip from Bogotá .

All of these trips were amazing. Though I might have found a way to do it with public transportation, I would have missed out on all the wonderful history behind these areas. Just don’t get caught thinking you need to pay hundreds of dollars for these trips.

The most expensive one I took was $65 USD, and they were all amazing. Perhaps this is two Colombia travel tips in one- both suggesting taking day tours and being aware of the “gringo tax.”

10. Be Careful with Taxis and Uber

Update : it appears that as of 2021, Uber may be more prevalent and possibly even legal to use in Colombia. I encourage you to do some research before you plan to go to be sure, as I see some conflicting reports.

Uber is technically illegal in Colombia. I say “technically,” as you will find Uber operating in some of the cities by some industrious locals. However, I did hear about some harassment by taxi drivers and worse in Cartagena.

It’s best not to use Uber, both for safety and to support the local taxi drivers. They will appreciate it, and it’s a good practice to support local business owners when you can.

For taxis, make sure the meter is running or negotiate the cost of your trip up-front. This is similar to what you’ll see in many other countries and not unique to Colombia.

11. There are Many Dogs (and Cats) Roaming the Streets

They seem better cared for in some areas, though they can pull on your heartstrings. It’s a good idea not to approach them unless they approach you to avoid the risk of being bitten.

When we stopped for a quick break on the way back from Guatapé, I saw my bus driver pull a large bag of dog food out of the bus and feed some of the dogs. One used only three legs and was very friendly with people. They were clearly very well-fed.

12. You Will See a Strong Military Presence

You’ll see military troops almost everywhere you go, especially in the larger cities. It can be unnerving at first, but it’s actually a good thing.

It is generally not because of crime in an area, but it is used as a strong deterrent. This is part of how Colombia has “cleaned up its act.”

You don’t want to do anything to call attention to yourself, of course. But unless you’re doing something illegal, you generally won’t be bothered by them.

13. In-Country Flights are Cheap

Buses are very cheap and can be a crazy experience, but they can take a long time. If you’re short on time, give a flight a look. EasyFly and VivaColombia are two local airlines to look for if you’re interested in a flight. 

I booked a flight on EasyFly from Medellín to Armenia when I learned the 6 to 8-hour bus ride was taking more than 11 hours. I only had a few days in Salento and decided it was worth the cost to save time.

The plane was tiny, and my international-sized carry-on didn’t even fit in the overhead compartment, but it was no issue. The bags were all lined up next to the place when we got off.

14. Try the Almuerzo

Almuerzo means lunch in Spanish. But, what I’m referring to is the special lunch offering which is generally bandeja paisa.

You usually start with soup and then a massive dish of meat, white rice, arepa (cornmeal cake), plantain, red beans, a small salad, and a drink (remember, no ice, and don’t eat the salad unless you’re feeling very lucky)!

It’s huge and usually runs around 8k COP, which is around $2.50 USD. Seriously. And go hungry and plan not to eat dinner. It’s that huge.

15. Portions are Massive

While I’m on the subject of large meals, you will find most of the meals in Colombia are large. The bandeja paisa almuerzo is a good example (when it’s served at dinner time, they usually call it bandeja paisa, but it’s essentially the same thing).

I got ajiaco which is chicken soup. They literally filled my table with dishes, including a large bowl of chicken broth, chicken, Peruvian corn, three kinds of corn, and guascas (a local herb).

Then they brought dishes with arepa and white rice. And not to stop there, they brought more dishes with toppings, including capers, hot sauces, and crema.

I literally ate this one dinner meal for three meals. And it was amazing! (I highly recommend trying some of the soups, which are Colombian specialties).

16. Try Aguardiente

What is aguardiente? It’s a locally-made liquor of distilled sugar cane.

We were offered it by our host in Salento, Colombia, with aguapanela, a drink made of sugar cane boiled to bubbly goodness and cooked for a long time, with water added.

It is sweet but not overly so, and has the taste of a lightly sweetened iced tea. It’s sometimes mixed with some lemon juice, so that it tastes like an Arnold Palmer.

Tejo is a fun game in Colombia played by throwing rocks at packets filled with explosives. What doesn’t sound amazingly fun about that??

17. Don’t Expect Anything for Free

Colombians generally expect that work should be compensated, so don’t expect samples for free. And if someone offers you something, they will expect you to pay for it.

This happened to me in Medellín when a young man kept trying to give me a woven bracelet. I declined several times, in fact, but he kept trying and ended up tying it loosely on my wrist. Then, he promptly demanded money for it. I was a bit put off, of course.

This also happens when you see people dressing up for you to take a photo of. They want money for it. Even if you aim your phone in their general direction.

When you’re in Bogotá, avoid this creepy-looking dude at all costs. I didn’t even have my phone up when he heckled the @#$% out of me for money. I finally gave up and paid him, then snapped this picture. And yes, he actually tried to get money from me a second time.

18. Drink Lots of Fruit Juices (Jugos)

The fruit juices are crazy good, and I highly recommend them. A word of caution, though, as they do have water in them. If you get a shake with milk thinking you’re avoiding the water, you’re not, as they put ice in them.

I finally gave in and tried one, and I was hooked. Now, I have read that they are often made with purified water (agua filtrado). However, I’m not sure if this is true or not. I can only tell you that if you’re going to take a risk, this is where you want to take it.

Traditional flavors are good, but try something different. My favorite was lulo, which is the naranjillo fruit. It was described as a citrusy rhubarb, and that really nailed it. It’s sweet and tart and amazing.

Mora (blackberry) is great, and I loved maracuyá (sweet passionfruit) as well.

19. Try the Snacks Sold on Buses

Last food one, I promise! This was a bit weird to me, I’ll admit it. I took a couple of buses, and people got on and sold homemade snacks. Weird, right? Well, buy them. It’s quite common in Colombia.

I bought an empanada for the equivalent of 20 cents in USD, and it was filled with strawberry goodness. She had already hopped off by the time I tried it, or I might have been tempted to buy more! Yum.

20. Go to the Mercados

The mercados, or markets, are where the locals do their shopping. They don’t go to supermarkets, which are usually at a higher price. You can find the freshest ingredients in the mercados as much less than you can at the supermarkets.

You also get to people-watch with the locals, which is always fun. In addition to food, you can find some really nice handmade items like carvings and woven goods, so it’s a good idea to go to bring gifts back for the people who thought Colombia was unsafe to travel to.

21. Tipping Isn’t Required

If you’re coming from the US or even Europe, most people expect to tip for any service. Things are a bit different in Colombia, though.

Taxis don’t require tips, though you can certainly round up to make your life easier (and not have a pocket full of change). You can pay 10% at restaurants if you wish, though they are not expected.

Most restaurants pay their staff what would be considered a living wage. Tips aren’t factored into that compensation.

You should consider paying tips for tours and guides, and 10 – 15% is a great guideline for those. They aren’t generally required overall, but they are nice and appreciated, especially if you feel the service warrants one.

22. The Colombian People are Amazing

Most people that you meet are very kind and helpful, and it’s genuine. I met a sweet young woman in a crowded subway car in Medellín. I was exhausted from a long day and was pushing to go see just one more thing (or two) before calling it a day. But it was hot, and I was pretty overwhelmed.

She made eye contact with me, smiled, and said something. I was far too tired for my brain to comprehend, and though I understand a little bit of Spanish, I don’t really know enough to be able to have a conversation.

We got off at the same stop, and she said something that I believe was asking where I was going. My radar went up, but I told her to stop. She got all excited, took my arm, and led me to the right train.

We ended up getting off at the same stop again (which she probably told me, had I understood), and she led me out, then gave me a warm hug and waved goodbye. It was incredibly sweet and so appreciated.

23. Colombia is Generally Safe

Is Colombia safe ? It’s a very common question people ask before visiting.

You need to be aware and careful as you do anywhere. Would you go to New York City and walk around with a backpack on your back that was open? Of course not.

So, you take the same precautions. Keep an eye, or better yet, a hand, on your belongings at all times. This is one of the most important Colombia travel tips to consider when you visit.

Be aware and make sure you aren’t zoning out on your phone and not paying attention. Colombia is a poor country, and some people may take advantage of the opportunity if presented. Don’t do so, and you will be fine.

24. Keep an Open Mind

No matter what preconceived notions you have about Colombia, leave them in the airplane. Take an open mind with you when you land, and be open to all that Colombia offers you.

From the incredibly friendly and industrious people to the history and culture to the incredible food—Colombia offers a lot for those willing to embrace it.

25. Be Prepared to Fall Madly in Love with Colombia

Colombia truly is amazing. If you are open and give it a chance, you will get swept up in how amazing it is, and you may be surprised to find you don’t want to leave.

These Colombia travel tips will help you along the way to make your trip easier so you can see what an amazing country it is.

Like most of Latin America, Colombia is a place where it is a great idea to prepare before you leave. Review these Colombia travel tips to help you set your expectations.

They’ll also help you to know what you should and should not do when you’re there. Bring an open mind and have an amazing time.

Is Colombia Safe for Travel?

As you start to plan for your trip and talk to people, you may be a little surprised by people’s reactions. Most people will give you a blank stare as if they are trying to get into your brain to figure out why you would want to go there.

Or, they will say that it’s not safe due to the reputation it has. Some may come out directly and say, “ Is Colombia safe to travel ?”

Now, the history of Colombia is a bit sketchy, and there were significant issues from drug cartels in the 1980s and 1990s that were blasted all over the news.

Take a poor country with a very corrupt government with the perfect climate for growing a certain white powder, and before you know it, there is a significant and bloody problem. This is all true and is well documented.

What’s not true, however, is that is how the country is now. Is there still drug production? I’m sure there is. However, the drug cartels have ceased their large-scale production, and the country is much more peaceful now.

There is still crime, and it is still, sadly, a poor country, so things happen. But believe it or not, Hollywood doesn’t always get it right and doesn’t always tell the whole story. Shocking, right?

So, I encourage you to do your research, and you will find a beautiful country full of amazing people.

Throw out everything you think you know about Colombia and consider going with an open mind. I fell madly in love with this country, and I think you will, too. And no, this isn’t even one of the tips (though it should be)!

Planning Your Colombia Vacation

Colombia isn’t a very heavily touristed country overall, though tourism is increasing rapidly. You will find more tourists in certain areas, especially the bigger cities.

I saw mention of the “Gringo trail” on a blog I read before I went and found that very much to be true. There are certain areas the tourists or gringos, usually go to.

In general, this includes Cartagena , Medellín , Bogotá , Tayrona Park, and Salento (for the amazing Cocora Valley hike ). You’ll find a good number of tourists backpacking or traveling through Colombia in these areas.

When I went, this was where I found the most tourists. I do recommend those areas and loved the ones I went to. But, I encourage you to step off the “gringo trail” to visit other places if you can to get a really good feel for the country.

In addition, it’s a good idea to see at least 3-4 places when traveling in Colombia. Each place is so very different, and even the big cities are worlds apart from the small towns.

There are some amazing UNESCO World Heritage sites in Colombia recognized for their beauty, cultural aspects, or other significance. I went to the Coffee Triangle and to Cartagena .

25 of the Top Colombia Travel Tips

Don’t miss visiting Colombia. You’ll fall in love with everything from the incredible natural beauty to architecture, people, and food. It’s an amazing place you won’t get out of your head for years after your visit—trust me on that!

It’s a different type of country to visit, but you’ll be prepared with the top Colombia travel tips.

You Might Also Like

• 21 Best Things to Do in Cartagena
• Best Day Trip from Cartagena—Palenque de San Basilio
• Colombia Travel Tips—25 Things to Know Before You Go
• Best 11 Things to do in Medelliín
• The Most Colorful City in Colombia—Guatapé
• Top 11 Fun Things to Do in Bogotá
• Best Day Trip from Bogotá—Zipaquira and the Salt Cathedral
• The Best Colombian Coffee Farm Tour in Salento
• Hiking Cocora Valley—The Top Thing to Do in Salento
• Top 10 Things to Do in Salento Colombia
• A Traveler’s Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Colombia

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Sam is a travel-obsessed animal lover on a quest to create a life of travel with her dog. She loves learning new things, snuggling a dog, architecture, hiking, and bold red wine. Join her in creating a life to dream about!

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Welcome to our travel blog specializing in Colombia! We're Angelica and Samuel, a French-Colombian couple, and since 2013 we've been traveling all over the country to visit Colombia's most beautiful places. We've created this blog to help you plan your stay in Colombia: first-hand experiences, practical information, accommodation tips, itinerary ideas, and contacts for the best guides and local agencies.

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Whether you’re looking to explore its colonial cities, relax on its beaches or explore its jungles and mountains, on our travel blog you’ll find all the advice you need to plan a trip to Latin America’s most beautiful country! In our posts, we’ll share our experiences and discoveries of Colombia’s most beautiful destinations . With our help, you’ll be ready to make the most of your stay in this beautiful country and discover its many wonders! Our travel blog is here to provide you with all the practical information and tips you need to prepare your trip to Colombia !

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Here are our classic destinations in the spotlight! Well-known places that are considered to be among Colombia’s must-see destinations. Because even though our travel blog is all about discovery and trying to get you out of the most touristy places, we make a point of talking about Colombia as a whole. And even in the most touristy places, it’s possible to take a step aside and discover another side of the country.

Visit Cartagena Travel Guide: The best things to do in Cartagena de indias

Visit guatape travel guide: best things to do in one of colombia’s most colorful villages, tayrona national park travel guide: all you need to know, cocora valley travel guide: hiking in one of the most beautiful landscape of colombia, guided tours in english, travel blog colombia.

Get ready for unforgettable experiences throughout Colombia! By choosing a guided tour in English, you’ll discover the wonders of this country accompanied by a local. So if you’re looking to be accompanied by a English-speaking guide, we’ve selected for you the best agencies for guided tours in English in Colombia’s major cities : Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena.

The best Bogota City Tours with an English-speaking guide

The best cali city tour with a local guide, the best cartagena city tours with an english-speaking local guide, our tips before you leave for colombia, best time to visit colombia: when you should travel, how to send money to colombia: comparison of the best international money transfers, colombia travel cost: how much money do you need for your trip, rent a car in colombia: our ultimate travel guide, destinations off the beaten path, the lesser-know colombia.

Here are some off-the-beaten-track destinations in Colombia that we’d like you to discover, because they deserve to be better known! If you like to get off the beaten path , this is the place to do it!

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All blog posts by Colombian destinations to find out what to do in Cartagena, visit the Andes region, explore the Pacific coast, discover the Amazon…

Our posts classified by theme to find out where to trek, discover the most beautiful beaches, visit the most beautiful villages or major Colombian cities…

Our itinerary ideas for trips to Colombia to help you make your choices, with examples and feedback from our experiences.

All the accommodation tips from our Colombia blog. You’ll find the best hotels by region, city, price, type of accommodation, etc.

When to go, formalities, budget, what to pack, vaccinations, insurance… all the practical information you need from our travel blog.

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Colombia, the new tourist destination

Colombia is frequently cited as one of the world’s most beautiful travel destinations:

• Lonely Planet : 10 countries to visit in 2017
• World Travel Awards : Best South American destination 2019
• Forbes : 3rd most beautiful country in the world in 2022

That said, the development of tourism in Colombia is relatively recent , as the country is struggling to emerge from almost a century of armed conflict. The fragile peace accords of 2016 opened the door to a pacification of the country, and tourism has played, is playing and will play a special role in this process.

That’s why we’ve created this Colombia travel blog , and why you can join us in this wonderful project! With this travel blog, we want to change the country’s image and encourage tourism initiatives that contribute to building lasting peace.

In our travels, we try to meet Colombians who want to change the way tourism is done, or at least people who propose a minimum of thoughtful tourism, which is sometimes lacking in Colombian tourism projects. Thoughtful so as to be sustainable, culturally sustainable for local communities, ecologically sustainable for natural areas.

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Planning a trip to Colombia: Everything you need to know before you go

Planning a trip to Colombia? Here’s what you need to know.

Of the 60+ countries I’ve travelled to, Colombia was one of the most time-consuming trips I’ve planned.

I spent at least two full days figuring the how, when and where of my trip to Colombia before I left – and plenty of time refining those plans as I went.

Perhaps naively, I expected Colombia to be fairly easy to travel. It’s pretty popular among both backpackers and digital nomads , after all. But it was surprisingly hard (and frustrating!) at times.

Before we go any further, I should point out a couple of things:

• I was trying to cover places and activities beyond the typical ones, for the sake of this blog. For example, I decided to forego the popular tourist spot of Salento for the almost-unknown town of Filandia just 20km to the west.
• I was being extra cautious regarding safety in Colombia . I was travelling solo and carrying $6000+ of gear with me. While it’s all insured , I tend to be extra careful on solo trips to countries I know little about.

These concerns undoubtedly contributed to my planning time and made things a little more complicated. But, even without these added in, planning my Colombia trip took more time than usual.

In this guide, I hope I can provide you with all the information that I wish I’d had before going. And, hopefully, these tips for planning a trip to Colombia will save you time when making your own plans!

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Planning a trip to Colombia: important things to know

How to plan a trip to colombia, colombia travel tips.

Before you can begin planning your trip to Colombia, it’s important to get the boring bits out of the way. I’m sorry! But I promise you’ll thank me later.

Colombia visas

Depending on where you’re from, you may need a visa to enter Colombia. You can check your country’s requirements on this page .

If you don’t need a visa to travel to Colombia, you can enter Colombia for up to 90 days (at the discretion of the immigration official).

You may be asked to show proof of onward travel, so make sure you have an outbound flight booked.

As of now, Colombia is also requiring visitors to fill out the Check Mig form. This can be filled out online at Natvisa . Once processed, Natvisa will send the Colombia Check Mig to your email ID mentioned in the application.

Insurance for Colombia

Like anywhere, it’s never a good idea to travel to Colombia without insurance.

I use and recommend Heymondo .

Their coverage is much more comprehensive than most and they will cover activities, circumstances and people that other policies won’t.

As a partner of Alajode, they’re offering 5% extra off for my readers. Click here to find out more, get an instant quote and save even more!

Safety in Colombia

There’s no beating around the bush with this one: Colombia doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to safety.

Unfortunately, many people like to base their views about Colombia on shows like Narcos, while others think of its violent past.

Colombia has changed – a lot. And, more than anything, Colombia wants to change its reputation.

The locals in Colombia are some of the friendliest and most helpful people I’ve ever met. It’s hard to speak to a stranger in Colombia without gaining a new friend.

Most Colombians will go all out to make sure tourists feel safe and welcome in their country, making sure we leave with nothing but beautiful new memories of its many unique places.

However, that’s not to say you don’t need to be careful. While I survived 10 days in Colombia solo without incident (unless you count falling into a spiky tree!), I can’t downplay the risks.

There are risks, things to avoid in Colombia and there are certain precautions you should take. Do so, and there’s a good chance you’ll have an equally drama-free trip.

I wrote an entire guide to staying safe to Colombia , which I recommend you read. It’s on the long side (3,500 words!) but that’s because it covers everything I think you need to know to travel to Colombia in 2020. Check it out here.

Now we’ve covered the essentials, it’s time to get to the fun part: planning!

It’s time to start laying the foundations for your trip, starting with the getting there and, after that, thinking about getting around.

Getting to Colombia

Most travellers visiting Colombia arrive in the capital, Bogotá. While starting in the biggest city seems logical, it might not be the best idea. Let me explain… 

If you don’t have much experience with altitude, Bogotá might not be the easiest way to start your trip. And, trust me, you don’t want altitude to ruin the start of your Colombia trip!

Bogotá sits at 8,600 feet. That makes it the third highest capital in the world !

Unless you know you’ll be okay with the altitude, it might be better to start elsewhere.

Both Medellin and Cartagena have a number of international flights, so I would look into these if you can. Simply search “Colombia” (rather than a city) on Skyscanner (or your site of choice).

I decided to fly into Medellin and then ended my Colombia trip in Bogotá. It turned out to be a great way to do things, and meant I had time for an extra city, too!

If you can, I highly recommend flying in and out of different airports when you’re planning your trip to Colombia.

Colombia is a massive country, and it will maximise your time there.

Where to go in Colombia

During my Colombia travels, I met a surprising amount of fellow travellers.

Even more surprising was that many of them were staying in Colombia for at least a month or more – and then going back home (rather than on to Ecuador or elsewhere in South America, like I expected).

But what surprised me most was that many of them were trying to extend their travels. Even two months didn’t feel like enough to see everything on their curated Colombia bucket list.

There are a lot of things to do in Colombia. Given its size and geographical diversity, it’s really no surprise.

But that means planning a trip to Colombia can lead you down all sorts of rabbit holes, jumping from one shiny object to the next. Choosing where to go can be a real challenge.

I decided to split my trip between three very different sides of Colombia so I could see a little of each:

Medellin and Bogota are the two biggest cities in Colombia and offer a glimpse of life in a Colombian metropolis. Not only that, but they make great bases for day trips to the surrounding areas .

The Caribbean coast

The northern part of Colombia is the most colourful, lively and delicious part of all. The Caribbean influence shapes everything about life here, including the music, the food and the daily lives of locals.

The coffee axis

El eje cafetero was my favorite area in Colombia. It’s serene, quaint and impressively beautiful, and I really felt immersed in the culture .

Again, it feels like you’ve stepped into a completely different country – or perhaps even a totally different era.

Other places you might want to include on your Colombia itinerary include the Amazon rainforest and the Pacific Coast. Both of these will another glimpse into a different side of Colombia, but the three above will give you plenty of diversity if you’re short on time.

RELATED READ: How (and why) to visit the Amazon in Ecuador.

If you want to visit more than one area in Colombia – something I definitely recommend – then don’t forget to factor in travel days.

Travelling around Colombia can take a while since the distances are long, but it’s totally doable. I would recommend allowing at least 2-3 days in each region, plus one day for travelling between.

Choosing the best time to visit Colombia

When you’re planning your trip to Colombia, you’ll probably want to know when is the best time to visit.

And, while there isn’t really a bad time to visit Colombia, you might want to consider the seasons.

Colombia has two seasons: rainy and dry. And I say you “might” want to consider them because you can totally visit Colombia in the wet season. Just be prepared for a little afternoon rain!

The dry season in Colombia generally runs from December-January and July-August. The wet season typically occurs in April-May and October-September.

Throughout the rest of the year, the weather is pretty consistent. 

While there isn’t really a best month to visit Colombia, it’s good to be aware of how the weather varies from region to region. Medellin is known as the “city of eternal Spring” for a reason, while Cartagena is hot and humid all year round. 

How many days to spend in Colombia

As you’ve probably guessed, it won’t be hard to fill your time in Colombia. And, for that reason, I say spend as much time there as you can! One month would be ideal, but you can still enjoy Colombia in just a week or two.

I spent 10 days in Colombia because it was all I had (well, it wasn’t, but that’s another story ). And while I got to see all the things I’d hoped to, I could have easily spent much longer exploring.

In 7 days, you could comfortably see 2-3 different cities or regions. In 10-14 days, you could visit 3-4 places but you could also find plenty to do in just one or two of those regions.

The trick to planning a trip to Colombia is prioritising what you want to see and working backwards from there.

Now you have a better idea of where you want to go and for how long, here are some things you need to know for when you arrive.

Accommodation in Colombia

Most towns in Colombia have plenty of accommodation to choose from, but it can book up quickly. It’s best to book as far ahead as you can.

Throughout my entire Colombia trip, I stayed at Selina . Selina is a hostel meets co-working meets social space that’s ideal for social travellers and digital nomads.

Although I stayed there on a comped basis, I wouldn’t hesitate to book one again (and have in fact done so!).

They have several locations across Colombia and I spent three nights at each of the Medellin, Cartagena and Quindío ones, as well as one night in the Bogotá Parque de la 93 one.

What I love most about staying at Selina is that they’ve created a consistent brand across all their properties, yet each one is completely unique based on its location.

Every Selina property takes influences from its environment and it’s a great way to feel at home without forgetting what city or town you’re in.

Given that I only stayed at Selinas, I made a point of asking other travellers about their experiences with accommodation in Colombia.

For the ones who had stayed at Selinas, it was clearly a winner for them. For the ones who hadn’t, they’d often heard about Selina from other travellers.

So, while I can’t compare Selina to other accommodation in Colombia, I can recommend it as an awesome place to stay. Their properties all have social areas, coworking, kitchens and living areas, bars and restaurants.

Many of them also have movie theatres, yoga decks and other social spaces, often with free or very affordable events.

Getting around Colombia

Given how big Colombia is, you can expect to spend a fair amount of time travelling internally. Luckily, it’s (mostly) pretty straightforward.

Flying is usually the best way to travel in Colombia given how easy and cheap it is. Admittedly, it’s not the best for the environment, but it’s much safer (and faster) than travelling by road.

Plus, given the wealth of ways to enjoy ecotourism in Colombia , you can at least offset your guilt.

For shorter journeys, each area has its owned preferred method of transport. The most distinctive is the coffee region, where the only way to get around is on old Jeep Willys!

Elsewhere, taxi apps are usually your best bet. Uber has been on/off banned in Colombia, but Beat and Taxify are both used by locals.

For safety reasons, it’s always best to use an app service rather hailing a street taxi.

How much does a trip to Colombia cost?

My trip to Colombia, after flights and accommodation, cost me around 250,000 COP (about £50 or $62 USD) per day.

Food in Colombia can be very affordable, as can accommodation and domestic travel.

I wasn’t on a budget, and I did splash out more for things like transfers because I was taking extra safety measures. I also had to pay more for tours and transport because I was travelling solo.

If you want to join tours (you can see read more about why I recommend you do in this post ), eat out and take private transfers from the airports, expect to budget a little less if you’re travelling as a couple or group.

If you’re on a tight budget and happy to take more risks and eat mostly street food, you could easily travel Colombia for £20 per day after accommodation.

Generally speaking, you want to allow around 150,000-200,000 COP per day for excursions or transfers, plus 30,000-80,000 COP per day for food and drink.

Packing for Colombia

Since each region of Colombia is so different, your Colombia packing list will depend entirely on your itinerary. One thing’s for sure: you’ll want to pack well!

Here are some things you’ll definitely want to take on your trip to Colombia.

Gear and accessories

A secure day bag . Pickpocketing isn’t uncommon in Colombia, so make sure you have a secure day bag. As the locals say, you don’t want to dar papaya (make yourself an easy target). This PacSafe bag has anti-theft locks to keep your things extra safe.

A spare phone . Unfortunately, cell phone theft is pretty common in Colombia. If you can, take one that you don’t care much about and leave the other one safely locked away in your room. If you want to take photos, I recommend picking up a discreet but powerful compact camera like this travel-focused one.

Adapters (if needed) . Colombia uses plug types A and B, which is the same as the USA. The voltage is 110 V. 

A padlock. This trip was the first time I’ve travelled without a pdlock… and I ended up buying one. A padlock will come in handy at some point in Colombia, even if you’re not staying in hostels. A combination lock like this one is the most secure and means you don’t need to worry about keys.

A reusable water bottle . Colombia has some of the best tap water in the world – so use it! I didn’t need to buy a single plastic bottle in Colombia because I could nearly always drink the tap water. The one time I couldn’t was in the coffee region, but the Selina had free purified water available for guests.

Your insurance details. Make sure you take a copy of your insurance documents with you and keep them somewhere safe.

READ NEXT: Colombia travel tips to know before you go.

Clothing & cosmetics

A light rain jacket . Even if you’re travelling to Colombia in the dry season, it’s a good idea to pack a light rain jacket. A fold up jacket like this one is perfect.

Jeans . Jeans are pretty much the uniform in Colombia. Even on the humid Caribbean coast, you’ll rarely see locals in anything else. If you want to avoid sticking out – which you do – I recommend wearing jeans most of the time.

A money pouch . Are they cool? No. Will you use it? Yes. I didn’t take a money pouch to Colombia, but I wish I had. You’ll want to separate your money and values as much as possible, and it makes it much easier to do so.

Running shoes. Almost all Colombians wear trainer, which is luck because they’re super practical. I recommend packing a pair of Nike running shoes for day to day wear.

Layers . The weather in Colombia can be changeable, so make sure you have some lightweight layers to throw on when needed.

Insect repellent. Unless you’re sticking to the big cities, you’ll want to pack some strong insect repellent. I didn’t see many insects, but I sure felt them the next day!

Sunscreen . You’ll want to wear sunscreen daily in Colombia, even – and especially! – in the cooler cities. Don’t be fooled by Bogotá’s mild temperatures either; the high altitude makes it much easier to burn.

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About Jodie Marie Dewberry

Jodie has been travelling the world full time since 2017, sharing the most unique places in the world along with tips for living as a digital nomad. She is a passionate wildlife photographer and has worked with a number of prominent travel brands, including airlines, tourism boards, hotels and tour operators.

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How to Prepare for Your Trip to Colombia

Are you planning to travel to colombia soon and still have some unsolved questions these 10* tips will help you to be well-prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest., by: impulse travel team | publish : may 15, 2023, about the author.

IMPULSE TRAVEL TEAM

We are a team of storytellers here to bring you the best Colombia has to offer. On our blog, we answer your most frequent questions and uncover our countries mysteries, culture, and highlights for you.

1. Check if you need a visa 

2.  Vaccinations and Travel Insurance

3. Learn some basic Spanish and Colombian slang words

4. When to go to Colombia

5. What to see or where to go in Colombia

Also worth mentioning: Colombia's travel regions are so rich that delving deeper into each one reveals you don't necessarily need to travel from north to south to experience the country's soul. Every major region holds its own magic. You can discover coffee plantations outside the big cities like Bogota, Cali, or Medellín without venturing to the Coffee Triangle in Armenia or Pereira or explore specialty coffee areas like Minca, the Sierra Nevada or the Department of Huila, renowned for producing the best quality coffee nationwide in the recent years. Another example is the Cocora Valley, while this is the most touristic place to witness our National Tree, the Wax Palms, there are many other places you can go and walk under these giantes that amazed the explorer Alexander von Humbolt in 1801, like Tochecito, Sasaima, Sevilla, La Unión, Salamina, La Maria and more, diminishing the volume and impact of tourism in local communities and the environment by visiting places off the beaten path. This allows you to spend more time in each destination, exploring it in greater depth, by doing so, you'll not only discover hidden gems often overlooked by tourists and even many locals but also experience Colombian life in the most local and authentic way possible.

However, Colombia boasts so many unique sites that visiting Los Nevados National Park or hiking in Tayrona National Park on the same trip will require traveling between cities. This inter-city travel presents the delightful pleasure of encountering changing landscapes, people, and cultures. But you know, you can't visit the whole country at once so better leave something for later!

6. Pack for all climates

7. Cash is King in Colombia

8. Stay safe with the necessary precautions

9. The rumba or the party

10. The Colombian food

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9 Things You Should Know Before Going To Colombia

• Central and South America
• Destinations
• News and Tips
• Travel With Confidence

Colombia is attracting more and more tourists every year. It is home to one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, a land of color, mountains, and seashores, a year-round temperate climate, rich history, and arguably the world’s finest coffee.  A growing number of people are deciding to retire here, too. 

Here are nine things you should know before heading to South America’s most northern country.

1. Reputation And Safety

Colombia comes with a reputation. Unfortunately, it’s generally not a good one and is enough to deter many visitors. Political instability, violence, armed guerillas, and drug cartels grabbed the headlines in the ’90s and early 2000s and cast a dark shadow over this sizable (it’s three times the size of California) South American nation. However, this nation of 50 million, with its long and rich cultural history, geographical and ecological diversity, modern cities, and colorful towns is a living juxtaposition that is emerging from its dark days like a butterfly breaking out of its chrysalis. Not only are tourists beginning to arrive, but with its temperate coastal climate, very reasonable cost of living, and vastly improved security, today Colombia is a magnet for Americans looking for a place to retire.

Colombia has moved beyond the days of drug lord Pablo Escobar and his gun-toting, smuggling groupies as well as the various guerilla groups terrorizing neighborhoods. Although Colombia officially remains on the U.S. “Do Not Travel” list due to potential safety issues, there are plenty of tour operators offering packages here. They have discovered the beauty and history of Colombia and know they are onto a winner. My wife and I recently spent eight days here, felt very safe, and plan to return for a more extensive visit to discover more of this gem of a nation.

2. Where To Go And Not Go

Like many places in this world, there are areas where you do not want to go alone, especially at night, and preferably not with an expensive camera hanging around your neck. The latest Travel Advisory (Sept. 2021) from the U.S. Department of State lists Colombia at Level 3 (Reconsider Travel). Just a few weeks ago, (when my wife and I visited), it was at Level 4 (Do Not Travel) driven primarily by COVID-19 concerns (particularly the Mu variant) and civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping in some areas. We visited two of the most popular cities — Cartagena and Medellin. We walked around alone in well-populated areas, ate at outdoor restaurants in the evenings, and took many taxis without ever feeling concerned about our security. We even visited Medellin’s (formerly) notorious Comuna 13 — one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world at the start of this century — but it’s still best to do this with a tour guide. As always, use common sense and avoid places specifically called out by the U.S. travel advisory.

Medellin (the locals pronounce it Medejin ) is located on a plateau surrounded by the Colombian Andes at an elevation of around 5000 feet (some of its neighborhoods which have sprawled up the mountainside) are another 1000 feet higher. We did not feel the effects of altitude but it may be a consideration for some.

An hour’s drive from Medellin is the town of Guatapé, famous for a large rock ( El Peñón de Guatapé ) which you can climb (704 stairs) for wonderful views of the lakes beyond. The city is also famous for its colorful zócalos (murals) that adorn several buildings.

Cartagena is a must-see. Steeped in history, with a walled old town encompassing brightly colored neighborhoods and with a coastline on the Caribbean Sea, it’s no surprise the place is a major draw for Colombians on vacation.

3. When To Go

Medellín is known as the city of eternal spring “ciudad de la eterna primavera),” and for good reason. Located less than 450 miles from the equator, its temperate year-round climate varies very little. It’s a very pleasant 70–80 degrees Fahrenheit year round. This area of Colombia is green and lush which means rain. April to June and September to November are the wet seasons and you should expect some rain each day.

Cartagena’s climate is similarly constant but with temperatures about 10 degrees higher. The most popular time to visit this coastal city is December to April when there is little to no rain but expect the beaches to be crowded.

We visited Medellin and Cartagena in September, enjoyed al fresco dining in the evenings, walked around in T-shirts and shorts, and had only an hour of rain. It was a good time to visit.

4. Getting Around

Taxis are plentiful in the cities but usually much smaller than U.S. residents may be accustomed to. They are typically yellow, seat four (five is a tight squeeze in a small Renault, Kia, or Hyundai) and have manual window openers (remember those?). So, if you are traveling as a family with large suitcases, you may need to hail two cabs or wait for an unusually large taxi. There are few SUVs or F-150s here. Taxis do not have meters so you should always ask the price before setting off. Although prices are cheap (a 3-mile trip into Cartagena’s old town was $3) negotiation is usual and expected.

Medellin is surrounded by the Andes and as the city has grown, neighborhoods have expanded up the hillsides so, if you’re going to explore these, bring comfortable walking shoes. 

Prepare to become a millionaire! The exchange rate for the Colombian peso to U.S. dollars is around 3300 to $1 so you will be carrying half a million pesos in your wallet if you bring in $150 cash. Prices are frequently quoted in thousands (e.g 20k peso is 20,000 Colombian pesos or just over $6 U.S. Most things — especially services — are much cheaper than in the U.S. Most restaurants accept credit cards and they will bring the card reader to you. At larger restaurants, a 10 percent tip is often included in your bill. Check to make sure you don’t end up tipping twice.

6. Language

We found English was widely spoken in the larger city hotels but not necessarily in restaurants nor with taxi drivers. A few words of Spanish goes a long way and having your destination address written for cab drivers helps too.

7. What To Bring

The clothes you will need obviously depend on the weather but since the climate is relatively consistent year round, you will need some essentials no matter when you travel. With constant sunshine, sunscreen is always a good idea as are sunglasses and a hat. In the rainy season, don’t forget a small umbrella and lightweight, rainproof jacket. Good walking shoes are a must to explore the older areas of Cartagena and Guatap é. Bring Colombian pesos if you plan to venture away from the larger metropolises.

8. Dealing With COVID Requirements

COVID requirements change all the time but good and timely planning will help a lot. Do check the Centers For Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) page on Columbia as well as the U.S.entry requirements.

Face masks are worn inside and outside in Colombia regardless of vaccination status and we found adherence to be universal. On LATAM flights, cloth masks were not permitted — you had to wear either an N95 or blue surgical type mask. It’s worth checking your airline’s requirements.

Entry into the airport terminal in Cartagena is strictly controlled. Passengers have to show their departure details before being allowed to enter no more than 3 hours before scheduled departure. It’s worth heeding the advice to arrive early though as COVID requirements can change and catch people out resulting in more time filling out forms.

Colombia requires you to complete a Health Check Migration form (known as Check-MIG ) prior to entry and a second MIG form to depart the country. Forms are only available online and you can save a lot of time by filling these out before you get to the airport. We didn’t complete ours ahead of time on the way back not realizing a health check form was required to actually leave the country. Don’t make this mistake. The only publicly available WiFi signal in the airport was at a small coffee bar (fortunately it was open) where the WiFi passcode is printed on your receipt once you had purchased something.

In these days of COVID-19, it is very handy to have your own approved-for-return-to-the-U.S. testing kits (bring more than you need). You will need an internet connection and also video capability to communicate during the testing process so a laptop/iPad or good cellphone is a must. 

9. Tours And Guides

There are lots of tours available in both Cartagena and Medellin. We found them to be invaluable to quickly learn about the city and learn details that would have otherwise passed us by. We can recommend Macondo though, of course, the tour is only as good as the guide. Medellin’s Comuna 13 neighborhood with its colorful murals is a must-visit area. There are a number of “unofficial” guides who live in the neighborhood and will soon offer to take you around. Beware — it’s advisable to book an official guide from a reputable company and preferably one who lives in the neighborhood. We toured with SAGTourMedellin which was excellent. 

Colombia has so much to offer; from Caribbean beaches to snow-capped peaks, from colorful towns with fascinating histories and colonial architecture to modern skyscraper cities. It offers a temperate year-round climate that supports one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, and visiting is very affordable and it’s nearer than you think. Don’t let its recent past history deter you from discovering this gem of a nation.

Here are some other reasons why you should visit Colombia:

• 7 Bucket List Experiences In Colombia
• The Otherworldly Salt Cathedral Of Zipaquira, Colombia
• Colombia’s “Liquid Rainbow” Puts On A Stunning Display

Originally from the UK and having lived in Toronto and North Carolina, Chris now calls southeast Michigan home. After 37 years in chemical manufacturing, Chris started chapter two pursuing his love of travel and photography and sharing it through illustrated travel articles. From sleeping in an ice hotel to walking through a Rio favela, rice mat weaving in rural China to sailing naked on the world’s largest square rigger, getting lost in the medina of Marrakech to sharing mate in Chile, every journey has created lifelong memories and often new friends. No matter where you are, everyone has a story.

Married with two grown sons, Chris still gets up early every Saturday to watch his beloved Liverpool play in the English Premier League and he still misses English country pubs and warm beer. He is also a features writer for a local newspaper and volunteers with a local nature and land conservancy group.

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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ALIKI TRAVEL BLOG

25 things you need to know before travelling to Colombia

Updated: Aug 4, 2023

I traveled through Colombia for 6 weeks and there are many things I learned during this trip so I would like to share my experiences and tips with you so you can plan your trip better!

Here are 25 things you need to know before traveling to colombia.

1. Get a ticket out of Colombia

Make sure you have a return ticket or if you are planning to go to Colombia for an uncertain period of time, make sure you have booked the cheapest bus or flight out of the country because if you do not have a ticket back or out of Colombia, the company you are flying with won’t let you on the flight. I have heard very few stories where people got on the plane without a ticket back, but I heard a lot more about people that had issues.

We flew with Avianca from Barcelona and we didn’t know about this so we were refused entry on the plane. We thankfully quickly booked the cheapest flights we could find and then canceled them a week later.

2. You can only stay in Colombia for 90 days

If you are from any EU country, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America you do not need a visa to enter Colombia , but you can only stay there for 90 days. If you wish to stay longer you will need to obtain a visa.

Before entering everyone needs to fill in an online form: Migracion Colombia . It is a basic registration form that will be required at the airport upon entering Colombia. Make sure to fill it in 24 hours before your trip. We had it in a digital format and this works just as well. You will also need to fill it in once leaving Colombia.

3. Vaccines

There are no vaccines required upon entering Colombia. You do not need the yellow fever vaccine to enter Colombia, but you will need it if you are planning to do a trip to Amazon. There will be parks, reserves, and areas where upon entering you will be required to show your yellow fever certificate. I have put together a guide on how you can get a yellow fever vaccine in Colombia for free !

Vaccines that are recommended for foreigners are:

A & B hepatitis

4. Weather depends on the altitude rather than the time of the year

It can be 35 degrees by the Caribbean coast and at the same time 10 degrees in the capital city Bogota. It all depends on the altitude, the higher the altitude the lower the temperature. The temperature more or less stays the same all year round.

The only thing you can influence is choosing between dry and wet seasons. Obviously, during the wet season, it tends to rain a lot more so you want to pick the dry season, which is December to January and July to August.

Learn from my mistake, and put sunscreen on even if it seems cool and cloudy. We were exploring Bogota, it was chilly and cloudy, I was in my jumper and my face still got burnt!

5. Altitude sickness is a real thing

It was my first time in South America so I wasn’t ready for the massive altitude change, especially coming from sea level. I actually fainted during sightseeing in Bogota which is the highest city in Colombia (2644 meters/8675 feet above sea level). The best recommendation is to drink a lot of water. You feel sick and will not have the urge to eat but please do eat something and drink coffee with sugar. Ideally do not plan much hiking and walking on the first day. Take it easy. Give it a day to get used to the altitude.

6. Do not read into the crazy stories about safety in Colombia

Just use your common sense, do not flex with expensive jewelry and watches, look after your bag, do not walk alone at night and you will be completely fine. Stop reading all the crazy kidnapping and drug crime stories, they are far away from the places you are going to visit. All you have to watch out for are the pickpockets.

The locals have a saying ‘do not give a papaya’ which means, don’t do silly things, use your common sense, watch your stuff and you will be ok.

7. Each city has a good and a bad neighborhood

Do not rely on general opinions about the city. Each city has its good and bad neighborhoods. So whenever you are choosing accommodation or planning things to do and see, definitely research where in the city is safe and not so safe areas. ‘La Candelaria’ areas which are the old towns tend to be more dangerous and the new zones tend to be safer.

Saying that we stayed in some Candelaria areas and during the day they were fine.

Most important is the time of the day. Most places in the night and late evenings are dangerous, as a tourist be more cautious during late hours. If you want to go out and party try to go with a group. Also, take a taxi straight to the bar/club and then straight back to the hotel. During the day all areas are more or less ok.

8. Police are everywhere

Do not worry about seeing police everywhere, nothing has happened it is just a normal practice. Also, don’t worry about wired fencing, it is normal to have it.

9. ColOmbia and not ColUmbia

Locals can get very offensive if you write it wrong.

10. Learn some basic Spanish

I highly, highly recommend this! There will be a lot of places where people do not speak English at all. Learn basic things about traveling, numbers for buying stuff, and polite phrases to get out of the situation. Or make sure you have data, so you can use translating apps, which takes me to the next point.

The most popular provider is ‘ Claro ’. You will find it in almost every shop and kiosk. Also, there are representatives in all tourist spots, do not worry, they are legit, and you can buy from them too. They are wearing red Claro t-shirts.

Do not buy it at the airport! We got scammed! We paid like 5x more because we just landed and thought it is the normal price. The prices average are 40.000 COP (~ EUR 9.50 / 8 GBP / 30.50 USD) for 11GB. Just be careful when buying, pay attention if you are buying data for 7 days or 30 days.

12. Prepare cash

Although there are many places that accept the card, you will end up in a situation where cash is the only way. So make sure you always have some with you.

Also, some places charge an extra 5% if you decide to pay with a card.

I personally recommend changing money in the airport, as they offer a better exchange rate than the offices in the cities.

13. Internal travel

Colombia is bigger than you think! Before picking 11-hour bus drive check the domestic flights! To our surprise, domestic flights are very cheap. We got tickets as low as 80.000 COP (~ 20 EUR / 17 GBP / 22 USD).

The original plan was to take a bus from city to city, but once we realized how cheap and convenient domestic flights are we flew everywhere. We only took the bus once, which made sense as the bus drive was only 4h (officially, in reality, was 6 hours). This takes me to my next point.

14. Buses in Colombia

Apart from flying, the bus system is the only other option, as the train system is not great in Colombia. You will find bus routes to most of the places. It is said that traveling by bus is safe in Colombia which probably is, taking into account how many buses go every day, but once in a while, things do happen. Just 2 weeks before our planned bus trip from Santa Marta to Cartagena a very similar bus on the same route was robbed. It was a night bus, so probably better to travel during the day. That is another reason why we chose flying and not buses, it is safer.

Even if big robberies do not happen, drivers allow sellers and beggars on the bus, which can be very disturbing as they stay on a bus for a good 20 minutes and you are not sure what to do. Very awkward.

The only bus company we tried for a long distance was ‘ Expreso Brasilia ' and I can recommend it as the seats were comfortable, the bus had air-con, tv, and toilet. The drive was smooth.

15. Taxis or Uber

Let's get the facts straight - yes, Uber and other apps are not legal in Colombia. Also, in fact, everyone still uses them! We used them for 6 weeks in different cities and we had no issues. I prefer and personally recommend using Uber and similar apps because then you know exactly how much you are paying and you have the driver's data. Trust me it is safer than taxis because there are stories about illegitimate taxi drivers. That said, there are cities, like Santa Marta and Pereira where Uber and similar apps do not work.

We also used ‘ Cabify ’ and had a good experience.

16. Traffic in the city is mad

No one follows the rules. Everyone drives like crazy. So you need to be careful not only as a driver but double check when crossing the road walking too. I do not recommend renting a car and driving into the city unless you have very good insurance coverage. Renting probably is only a good idea when going away from the city to the least accessible places.

17. Do not mention HIS name

Avoid mentioning Pablo Escobar's name or even joking about it. You don’t want to put yourself in the situation. Only discuss it if the other person brings it up. The reality in Colombia during his ruling time was nothing like a Netflix show. There are people who suffered greatly and there are people who still these days praise him so you do not want to get in the middle of that.

18. Colombia Travel Groups

I highly recommend joining Colombia travel groups on FB and Reddit. Firstly if I ever had a question I got the best answers as people in the group are currently traveling Colombia and had faced the same issues or they have been there, done it, and can advise from their personal experience. Secondly, people discuss other places, things to do there, and buses to take so it can give you great ideas for your route.

Also, if anything important happens in Colombia you will find out with 50+ comments from travelers like you. For example, there were massive protests happening on the roads, and loads of them were closed, so people in real-time were commenting on who is stuck where and where is fine to go, which helped us greatly.

These are 2 groups I joined and found very useful:

Backpackers Colombia

Backpacking South America

19. Mosquitos

They are everywhere and they are so little you can’t see them so they will keep eating you alive and you literally can’t do anything about it. So all I can advise is to have a lot of mosquito spray with you. Some areas have more of them than others, like Minca. I returned from the jungle/mountain trip with 1000s of bites everywhere! They do sell a lot of organic and natural sprays and other products against mosquitos.

20. Cold showers

The more North you will go the less chance you will get a warm shower. The booking sites won’t say if there is a hot shower or not, because of course we assume there is a hot shower everywhere, but in Colombia, there are not. I think 80% of the places we stayed had no hot water. Even if it says hot shower it doesn’t mean you will get an actual hot shower, it might be just slightly warm.

If you see on booking.com a question in the Q&A section about ‘Do you have a hot shower?’, it is probably me haha, because before booking I was always asking, because you never know!

21. Tipping

90% of the time, the tip will be already included in the bill. It will be calculated from the total bill from 5% - 10%. If it's not automatically included in the bill then the person serving you will ask if they can include the service charge.

22. Watch your step

Very common to have random big holes on the roads and pedestrian walkways. They can be as big as 1m x 1m so be careful!

23. Have Patience

Everything takes ages. In cafes, in the airport, in the supermarket, basically at any place where you need to pay or receive services. Just have patience, it is what it is.

24. Straws for coffee

They use straws to stir coffee and tea. There are no spoons for that. That's all I have to say.

25. Enjoy this amazing country!

There is so much to see and do! Colombia is beautiful. I really enjoyed my 6 weeks there and already can’t wait for when I will go back.

There is a famous saying ‘The only threat in Colombia is not wanting to leave’ and I can agree with that! Put away any concerns you have about Colombia and embrace this amazing country!

My absolute favorite places are Salento , Minca , Cartagena , Guatape , Tayrona Park , and Bogota . I highly recommend adding them to your Colombia travel itinerary!

Here is a video summarizing all my favorite places in Colombia and some extra travel advice regarding safety in each destination:

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• Plan Your Trip

How To Prepare For A Trip To Colombia

Published: December 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Letitia Creek

• Central & South America
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Colombia, a vibrant and diverse country located in the heart of South America. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm and welcoming people, Colombia has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a culinary connoisseur, Colombia offers something for everyone. From exploring the lush Amazon rainforest to strolling through the charming colonial streets of Cartagena, this country is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

However, planning a trip to Colombia requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to help you prepare for your upcoming adventure in Colombia.

First and foremost, it’s important to conduct thorough research about the country. Familiarize yourself with its geography, climate, and various regions. Colombia’s diverse topography includes the Andes Mountains, Caribbean coastlines, Pacific jungles, and the vast plains of Los Llanos. Understanding the different regions will help you plan your itinerary accordingly.

Speaking of itineraries, creating a well-planned travel schedule is crucial. Determine the duration of your trip and decide which cities, towns, and attractions you want to visit. Colombia offers a plethora of options, from the bustling capital city of Bogota to the picturesque coffee region of Salento. Take into consideration the distance between destinations and the time required for transportation.

Next, make sure to obtain the necessary travel documents. Check if you need a visa or if your passport requires a certain amount of validity. It’s always a good idea to make copies of your passport and important documents and keep them in a separate place in case of emergencies. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.

Step 1: Researching Colombia

Researching Colombia is an essential step in preparing for your trip. By gathering information about the country’s culture, attractions, and safety considerations, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and maximize your experience.

Start by learning about Colombia’s geography. With its diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to beaches to rainforests, Colombia offers a wide array of natural wonders to explore. The Amazon rainforest, Tayrona National Park, and the famous Cocora Valley are just a few examples of the breathtaking natural beauty that awaits you.

It’s also important to understand Colombia’s climate. The country experiences a range of climates due to its proximity to the equator and varying altitudes. In general, Colombia has two main seasons – the dry season and the rainy season. Make sure to check the weather patterns of the specific regions you plan to visit to pack appropriate clothing and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

When researching Colombia, also take the time to learn about the country’s history and cultural heritage. Colombia has a rich and diverse history, spanning from the ancient indigenous civilizations to the Spanish colonial era. You can visit museums and historical landmarks to deepen your understanding of the country’s past and its influence on the present culture.

While gathering information, pay attention to safety considerations. While Colombia has made significant strides in recent years to improve its security situation, it’s still important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions. Research the current safety conditions in the specific areas you plan to visit and follow any travel advisories or guidelines provided by your government.

Furthermore, researching local customs and etiquette can go a long way in ensuring a positive interaction with the locals. Colombians are known for their warm and friendly nature, and understanding their cultural norms will help you navigate social situations with ease.

Take advantage of online resources, travel guides, and travel forums to gather as much information as possible. Engage with fellow travelers who have visited Colombia to get first-hand recommendations and insights.

By thoroughly researching Colombia, you’ll be well-prepared to create a detailed itinerary, make informed decisions, and navigate the country with confidence. This knowledge will enhance your overall travel experience and allow you to make the most of your time in this incredible destination.

Step 2: Planning Your Itinerary

Planning your itinerary is an exciting part of preparing for your trip to Colombia. With so many incredible destinations and attractions to choose from, it’s important to prioritize your interests and allocate time accordingly.

Start by determining the duration of your trip. Colombia is a vast country, and depending on how much time you have, you may need to make some tough decisions on which places to include in your itinerary. Consider factors such as transportation time between destinations and how much time you want to spend in each place.

Next, identify the cities, towns, and attractions that you absolutely don’t want to miss. Bogota, the capital city, is a popular starting point for many travelers. It offers a mix of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife. The walled city of Cartagena is another must-visit destination, known for its colonial architecture and stunning beaches.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, consider adding Medellin to your itinerary. This city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes of the Coffee Triangle. For adventure seekers, a visit to the Amazon rainforest or a trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) should be high on the list.

Don’t forget about Colombia’s stunning beaches. Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park, and the Rosario Islands are popular coastal destinations where you can relax on white sand beaches and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

Once you’ve identified your top priorities, consider the logistics of getting from one place to another. Colombia has a well-developed transportation system, but distances between destinations can be significant. Research the available options, such as domestic flights, buses, and taxis, and plan accordingly.

Allow for some flexibility in your itinerary to allow for unforeseen circumstances and serendipitous discoveries. Leave room for spontaneous adventures and leisurely exploration, as some of the most memorable experiences often happen when you least expect them.

When planning your itinerary, be mindful of the pace of your trip. It can be tempting to try to see everything, but rushing through destinations can lead to burnout and detract from your overall enjoyment. It’s better to focus on quality experiences in a few places than to try to cover too much ground.

Lastly, don’t forget to factor in rest days or downtime in your itinerary. Traveling can be tiring, and taking breaks to recharge and soak in the local ambiance will enhance your overall experience.

By carefully planning your itinerary, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Colombia and ensure that you don’t miss out on the country’s incredible diversity and wonders.

Step 3: Obtaining Necessary Documents

Obtaining the necessary documents is an important step in preparing for your trip to Colombia. Make sure you have all the required paperwork to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

First and foremost, check if you need a visa to enter Colombia. Depending on your nationality, you may be allowed to enter the country visa-free or may require a tourist visa. Visit the website of the Colombian embassy or consulate in your country to determine the specific visa requirements and application process.

Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Colombia. If your passport is close to expiring, consider renewing it well in advance to avoid any complications during your trip.

Once you have confirmed the visa requirements and ensured the validity of your passport, proceed with the visa application process, if necessary. Follow the instructions provided by the embassy or consulate carefully and submit all the required documents, such as application forms, passport photos, and proof of travel arrangements.

While it is not mandatory, it is advisable to make copies of your passport, visa, and other important documents. Keep these copies in a separate location from the originals, such as in your luggage or with a trusted friend or family member. In case of loss or theft, having copies will make it easier to replace the necessary documents.

Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Colombia. Travel insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen belongings, and other unforeseen events. Review the policy details thoroughly and choose a plan that offers comprehensive coverage based on your needs.

Before your departure, double-check that you have all the necessary documents with you. Create a checklist that includes your passport, visa, travel insurance information, and any other important documents specific to your trip. Keeping everything in one place will help you stay organized and avoid any last-minute panics.

It’s also a good idea to share your travel itinerary and contact details with a family member or friend back home. This way, someone will have access to your information in case of an emergency or if you need assistance while you’re abroad.

By ensuring that you have all the necessary documents in order, you’ll be able to enter Colombia smoothly and focus on enjoying your trip to the fullest.

Step 4: Taking Care of Finances

Taking care of your finances is an essential step in preparing for your trip to Colombia. By planning your budget, managing currency exchange, and ensuring access to funds, you can have peace of mind and enjoy your travel experience.

Start by creating a budget for your trip. Research the costs of accommodation, transportation, meals, activities, and any additional expenses you may incur. Make sure to account for both the major expenses and smaller daily expenses to get an accurate estimate of how much you’ll need.

It’s important to research the currency of Colombia and decide how you will manage your money. The official currency is the Colombian peso (COP), and it’s advisable to carry a combination of cash and cards for convenience and security.

Before your trip, check with your bank to see if your debit or credit cards can be used internationally and inform them of your travel plans. Ensure that your cards have a four-digit PIN, as this is commonly required in Colombia for ATM withdrawals and card transactions.

Inform your bank about your trip to Colombia to avoid any potential issues with blocked transactions due to suspected fraudulent activity. Keep a record of your bank’s contact information in case you need to reach them while you’re abroad.

It’s also a good idea to carry a small amount of US dollars or Euros with you, as these currencies are widely accepted for conversion in Colombia. However, be cautious when exchanging money and only do so at reputable exchange offices or banks to ensure a fair rate and avoid scams.

Consider using a travel money card, which is a reloadable prepaid card that allows you to load different currencies onto a single card. This can be a convenient option for managing your expenses and avoiding foreign transaction fees.

While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it’s important to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, and transportation. Be mindful of your surroundings when withdrawing cash or making transactions, and keep your valuables secure at all times.

Lastly, keep a record of your expenses throughout your trip. This will help you stay within your budget and track your spending. It’s also a good practice to have some emergency funds available in case of unexpected situations.

By taking care of your finances before your trip, you can enjoy peace of mind and focus on making the most of your time in Colombia, without worrying about monetary matters.

Step 5: Packing Essentials

Packing for your trip to Colombia requires careful consideration of the essentials you’ll need to ensure comfort, convenience, and enjoyment throughout your journey. Here are some key items to include in your packing list:

• Clothing: Pack comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable for the climate and activities you plan to engage in. Colombia has a variety of climates, so it’s important to pack layers and be prepared for both warm and cool temperatures. Don’t forget essentials like swimwear, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Travel Documents: Gather all your necessary travel documents and keep them organized in a secure travel document organizer. This includes your passport, visa, travel insurance, and copies of important documents. It’s also a good idea to carry a small notebook with emergency contact numbers and addresses.
• Electronics: Bring the necessary electronics you’ll need for communication, navigation, and entertainment. This may include your smartphone, camera, charger, power adapter, and any other gadgets that are essential to your travel experience.
• Medications and First Aid: If you require any prescription medications, be sure to bring an ample supply for the duration of your trip. It’s also advisable to pack a small first aid kit with essentials such as pain relievers, band-aids, and any personal medical items you may need.
• Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries, including toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and any other personal care items you use daily. Consider bringing insect repellent and sunscreen as well, as these are essential for protecting yourself from the sun and bugs.
• Money and Security: Keep your money, credit cards, and important documents secure. Consider using a money belt or neck pouch to keep your valuables close to your body. It’s also a good idea to bring a lock for your luggage to ensure the security of your belongings during your travels.
• Extras: Consider bringing a reusable water bottle, a portable umbrella, a daypack for excursions, and a compact travel towel. These items will come in handy during your sightseeing adventures and help you stay hydrated and prepared for unexpected weather changes.

Remember to pack light and only bring what you truly need. Leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs and items you may acquire during your trip. It’s also helpful to make a packing list in advance and check off items as you pack to ensure you don’t forget anything important.

By packing the essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your journey in Colombia and have a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.

Step 6: Learning Basic Spanish Phrases

Learning basic Spanish phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience in Colombia. While many Colombians in popular tourist areas may speak English, knowing a few common phrases can help you navigate day-to-day interactions and show respect for the local culture.

Start by learning greetings such as “hola” (hello), “buenos días” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), and “buenas noches” (good evening). These simple greetings can go a long way in establishing a friendly connection with locals.

It’s also helpful to learn essential phrases for communication, such as “por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you), and “perdón” (excuse me). Using these phrases when ordering food, asking for directions, or requesting assistance will show your appreciation for their assistance.

Basic vocabulary related to dining is also essential. Learn terms like “mesa” (table), “menú” (menu), “plato” (dish), and “cuenta” (bill) to navigate restaurant interactions with ease.

When interacting with locals, learning phrases such as “¿cómo estás?” (how are you?), “me llamo” (my name is), and “mucho gusto” (nice to meet you) can help foster positive connections and friendly exchanges.

Additionally, knowing numbers in Spanish is crucial for shopping, bargaining, and understanding prices. Learn numbers from one to ten, as well as higher numbers if you plan to do more extensive shopping or engaging in business transactions.

Understanding common directions and locations is also important. Learn phrases like “dónde está” (where is), “a la derecha” (to the right), “a la izquierda” (to the left), and “cerca” (near) to navigate your way around the cities and towns you visit.

While learning basic phrases is helpful, don’t be discouraged if you make mistakes. Colombians appreciate the effort to communicate in their language, and they are often patient and understanding. Use gestures and facial expressions to supplement your communication if needed.

There are various resources available to help you learn basic Spanish phrases, including language apps, online tutorials, and phrasebooks. Consider practicing with a language partner or taking a short introductory Spanish course before your trip.

By learning basic Spanish phrases, you’ll not only enhance your travel experience but also have a deeper cultural immersion as you engage with the local community in Colombia.

Step 7: Booking Accommodation

Booking suitable accommodation is a crucial step in preparing for your trip to Colombia. By finding the right place to stay, you can ensure comfort, convenience, and enjoy a home away from home during your travels. Here are some essential factors to consider when booking your accommodation:

Location: Determine which areas or neighborhoods you want to stay in based on your itinerary and personal preferences. Consider proximity to attractions, public transportation, and the atmosphere you desire. Whether you prefer staying in the heart of a bustling city or a peaceful beachfront, choose a location that suits your needs.

Accommodation Type: Consider the type of accommodation that best suits your travel style and budget. Colombia offers a variety of options, including hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Each has its own advantages, so choose one that aligns with your preferences and requirements.

Amenities and Facilities: Identify the amenities and facilities that are important to you. This may include high-speed internet, a swimming pool, a fitness center, or an on-site restaurant. Make a list of your priorities and filter your search accordingly to find accommodation that meets your needs.

Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and check ratings from previous guests to get an idea of the quality and service provided by the accommodation. Websites like TripAdvisor and Booking.com offer reliable reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Budget: Set a budget for accommodation and consider the cost in relation to your overall trip expenses. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and location. Look for deals and promotions, and consider booking in advance to secure better rates.

Booking Platforms: Utilize reputable booking platforms, such as Booking.com, Airbnb, or Expedia, to search and book your accommodation. These platforms provide a wide range of options, flexible cancellation policies, and secure payment methods.

Communication: If you have any specific requirements or questions, reach out to the accommodation provider prior to booking. This can help clarify any concerns and ensure that your needs are met during your stay.

Flexibility: Be open to alternative options if your preferred accommodation is not available. Explore different neighborhoods or consider different types of accommodations to find the best fit for your trip.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find the perfect accommodation that meets your needs and enhances your overall experience in Colombia.

Step 8: Understanding the Culture and Etiquette

Understanding the culture and etiquette of Colombia is essential for having a respectful and immersive travel experience. By familiarizing yourself with the customs and norms of the country, you can interact with locals more effectively and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Colombia.

Colombians are known for their warm and friendly nature, and taking the time to learn a few key cultural norms can go a long way in building positive connections. Here are some important aspects to consider:

Greetings: Colombians greet each other with a handshake, and close friends and family often exchange a hug and a kiss on the cheek. It’s polite to greet people with a smile and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.

Punctuality: Being on time is valued in Colombian culture, so it’s important to make an effort to arrive punctually for meetings, appointments, or social engagements. However, it’s not uncommon for events to start a little later than scheduled, so some flexibility may be necessary.

Respect for Elders: In Colombia, respect for elders is highly valued. Use formal titles when addressing older individuals, show deference, and listen attentively when they speak. It’s also common to offer your seat to an elderly person on public transportation.

Dress Code: Colombians generally dress well and take pride in their appearance. It’s advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. On the coast, beachwear is acceptable, but more conservative clothing is appropriate in other areas.

Personal Space and Touching: Colombians are generally affectionate and may stand closer to others during conversations compared to some other cultures. However, it’s important to respect personal space and avoid unnecessary touching unless there is a close relationship or permission is granted.

Politeness and Courtesy: Basic politeness and courtesy are highly regarded in Colombian culture. Remember to say “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) when interacting with locals. Use “usted” (formal “you”) when addressing older individuals or those in positions of authority.

Religion: Colombia is predominantly Roman Catholic, and religion plays a significant role in the culture. Be respectful when visiting churches, observe dress codes, and avoid entering during religious services unless you intend to participate.

Food and Dining: When dining with Colombians, it’s customary to wait for the host or hostess to start eating before you begin. It’s also polite to try a bit of everything served and compliment the meal. To show appreciation, it’s common to say “buen provecho” (enjoy your meal) before you start eating.

By understanding the culture and etiquette of Colombia, you can navigate social interactions with ease and show respect for the local customs. Embracing the cultural nuances of the country will enhance your travel experience and foster positive connections with the people you encounter.

Step 9: Staying Healthy and Safe

Ensuring your health and safety while traveling in Colombia is of utmost importance. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, you can minimize risks and fully enjoy your trip. Here are some essential tips for staying healthy and safe:

Vaccinations: Before traveling to Colombia, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Depending on your travel plans and personal health, additional vaccines such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever may be recommended.

Travel Insurance: It is highly advisable to purchase travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Review the policy details carefully and ensure it covers the activities you plan to engage in and any pre-existing conditions.

Food and Water Safety: To prevent foodborne illnesses, take precautions when it comes to food and water. Stick to bottled or purified water, and avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods. Opt for hot and freshly prepared meals, and peel fruits and vegetables yourself when possible.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Colombia is located in an area where mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and malaria are present. Take measures to protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under mosquito nets, especially in high-risk areas or during peak mosquito activity times.

Personal Safety: While Colombia has made significant progress in improving its security situation, it is important to remain vigilant and exercise general caution. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots, and avoid displaying expensive items or large amounts of cash.

Transportation Safety: Follow safety guidelines when using public transportation or hiring taxis. Travel in licensed taxis, use reputable ride-sharing apps, and avoid traveling alone at night whenever possible. Familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules if you plan to drive in Colombia.

Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in case of emergencies. Make note of emergency numbers in Colombia, including police, ambulance, and the nearest embassy or consulate. Share your travel itinerary and contact details with a trusted friend or family member back home, and keep them updated on any changes.

Healthcare Facilities: Research the location of nearby medical facilities and clinics in the areas you plan to visit. Ensure you have access to medical assistance and carry necessary medications with you. It’s also advised to have a basic first aid kit on hand for minor injuries or ailments.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respect the local customs and traditions of Colombia. Understand the cultural norms and behave in a way that shows consideration for the local people. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid behavior that may be considered disrespectful or offensive.

Weather Conditions: Be aware of the weather conditions in Colombia, as they can vary greatly depending on the region. Stay informed about potential natural disasters, such as hurricanes or floods, and follow any advisories or warnings issued by local authorities.

By following these guidelines, staying informed, and using common sense, you can maintain your health and safety throughout your trip in Colombia and have a memorable and worry-free experience.

Step 10: Exploring the Cuisine and Local Delicacies

When visiting Colombia, exploring the rich and diverse cuisine is a must. Colombian food is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and regional specialties. Embark on a culinary journey and discover the mouthwatering dishes and local delicacies that make Colombian cuisine so enticing.

Start your culinary exploration by trying the national dish of Colombia: bandeja paisa. This hearty meal typically consists of beans, rice, plantains, avocado, arepa (a cornbread-like flatbread), ground beef, chorizo, and a fried egg on top – a true feast for the senses.

Empanadas are another staple in Colombian cuisine. These delicious deep-fried or baked pastries are usually filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and make for a satisfying snack or meal on the go.

Ceviche, a popular coastal dish, is a refreshing combination of raw fish or seafood marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. It’s a perfect choice for seafood lovers.

The influence of the Caribbean coast is evident in dishes like arroz con coco (coconut rice) and pescado frito (fried fish). The coastal regions offer a variety of seafood options, including lobsters, prawns, and octopus – all bursting with flavors and served with coconut-based sauces.

Colombian coffee is world-renowned, and a trip to Colombia wouldn’t be complete without savoring a cup of the rich and aromatic brew. Visit coffee plantations in regions like the Coffee Triangle to learn about the coffee production process and treat your taste buds to a truly exceptional cup of java.

For those seeking a unique experience, don’t miss trying the exotic fruits of Colombia. From the tangy and vibrant flavors of maracuya (passion fruit) and lulo to the creamy and delectable taste of granadilla (sweet passion fruit) and guanabana (soursop), these fruits are a true delight to indulge in.

When dining in Colombia, don’t forget to sample local street food. Arepas, grilled corn cakes typically filled with cheese or meat, are widely available and make for a delicious and inexpensive snack. Chicharrones, crispy pork belly, are another popular street food choice.

To immerse yourself further in Colombian culture, participate in a traditional meal known as a “sancocho.” This hearty soup is made with meat (such as chicken or beef), a variety of vegetables, and served alongside rice or plantains. Sancocho is often enjoyed during special occasions or family gatherings.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant street food scene or dining in a high-end restaurant, Colombian cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors and culinary experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the local delicacies and fully embrace the gastronomic delights that Colombia has to offer.

Step 11: Must-See Attractions in Colombia

Colombia is a country brimming with captivating attractions and natural wonders. From stunning landscapes to historical gems, there are countless must-see destinations that showcase the diversity and beauty of this South American gem. Here are some top attractions you should consider including in your itinerary:

Ciudad Perdida (Lost City): Embark on a multi-day trek through the lush jungles of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to discover the ancient ruins of Ciudad Perdida. This archaeological site predates Machu Picchu and offers a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience.

Tayrona National Park: Located on the northern Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dense tropical forests make this park a haven for hikers, campers, and beach enthusiasts.

Cartagena’s Old Town: Stroll through the enchanting streets of Cartagena’s Old Town and be transported back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is adorned with colorful colonial buildings, picturesque squares, and an iconic fortress. Don’t miss the chance to sample local cuisine and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the city.

Medellin: Once notorious for its violent past, Medellin has transformed into a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural scene. Visit the Botero Plaza, home to numerous sculptures by renowned artist Fernando Botero, and explore the lively neighborhoods of Poblado and Laureles.

Guatape and El Peñol: Just a short drive from Medellin lies the charming town of Guatape, famous for its colorful houses and stunning views. Climb the El Peñol rock formation for panoramic vistas of the surrounding lakes and islands.

Coffee Cultural Landscape: Explore the tranquil coffee-growing region of Colombia known as the Coffee Cultural Landscape. Visit picturesque towns like Salento and Manizales, learn about the coffee production process, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the emerald-green coffee plantations.

Bogota’s Historic Center: Discover the vibrant capital city of Bogota and its historic center, La Candelaria. Explore the bustling streets, admire colonial architecture, and visit cultural landmarks such as the Gold Museum and Bolivar Square.

Amazon Rainforest: For an immersive jungle experience, venture into the Amazon rainforest in southern Colombia. Explore its diverse flora and fauna, discover indigenous communities, and embark on thrilling wildlife encounters.

San Agustin Archaeological Park: Marvel at the ancient stone statues and burial mounds at the San Agustin Archaeological Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Colombia’s pre-Columbian past and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.

Islas del Rosario: Embark on a boat trip to the Islas del Rosario, an archipelago off the coast of Cartagena. Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and indulge in delicious seafood.

These are just a few highlights of the many incredible attractions that Colombia has to offer. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences, or historical sites, Colombia will enchant you with its diversity, warmth, and hospitality.

Preparing for a trip to Colombia requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, but the effort is well worth it. From the enchanting colonial streets of Cartagena to the lush landscapes of the Coffee Cultural Landscape and the ancient ruins of Ciudad Perdida, Colombia offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.

By conducting thorough research, planning your itinerary, obtaining necessary documents, and taking care of your finances, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Learning some basic Spanish phrases and understanding the local culture and etiquette will help you connect with the friendly people of Colombia and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

Staying healthy and safe should be a top priority, so make sure to take necessary precautions, stay informed, and be mindful of your surroundings. Sample the mouthwatering cuisine and local delicacies, indulge in Colombian coffee, and explore the breathtaking attractions that this beautiful country has to offer.

As you embark on your Colombian adventure, remember to be open-minded, embrace the vibrant culture, and cherish the memories you’ll create along the way. Colombia is a country full of surprises, warmth, and natural wonders that will leave a lasting impression on your heart.

So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, discovering hidden gems, or simply embracing the joy of Colombian hospitality, your trip to Colombia is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

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Top 16 Travel Tips for Colombia

These travel tips for Colombia are guaranteed to make your upcoming trip a great one.

During my first time in Colombia I enjoyed exploring different parts of the country from big cities, to small cities, to its beautiful coastal islands.

What I loved most about Colombia was the diversity found in its different regions. No matter where you decide to go you’ll find kind people, delicious food, a rich history, and plenty to see and do.

In this guide you’ll find my best travel advice for Colombia including recommendations on which destinations you don’t want to miss.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Travel Tips for Colombia

If you’ve never been to Colombia before I encourage you to spend time in Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena during your first visit.

For those of you that have additional time, definitely make the effort to get outside of the big cities.

Colombia is covered in beautiful landscapes and natural environments. if you enjoy spending time in the outdoors I promise you won’t be disappointed with your time in Colombia.

In this post I’ll be sharing some of my best Colombia travel tips to help you plan your first visit.

I honestly had an incredible time and learned a ton while exploring this country.

So whether you’ve got a few days or even three weeks in Colombia , I’ve got you covered with these Top 16 Travel Tips for Colombia.

1. You must visit Cartagena

My favorite days in Colombia were spent in Cartagena.

Its one of the most fun and lively cities in Latin America and has incredible beaches, food, and nightlife.

Whether you have a week or just one day in Cartagena I promise you’re going to enjoy your visit here.

Cartagena’s colorful streets are both photogenic and extremely walkable. It’s an easy place to love, and one you’ll likely want to come back to someday.

I recommend booking your hotel in the walled section of the city so you’re close to the action. This is where you’ll find the beautiful streets, fantastic restaurants, and rooftop bars. 

If possible, I would spend at least three or four days in Cartagena. This will give you time to check out the various neighborhoods and even get out to some of the nearby islands. 

If you want to experience the best things to do in Colombia , you don’t want to miss out on a visit to Cartagena.

2. Be prepared for the humidity

If you have long hair, this might be the most important of these travel tips for Colombia. 

The weather in Colombia is hot and humid just about all the time. Be prepared for this weather by packing light, comfortable clothing.

This means shorts, tank tops, sundresses, sandals, and sun hats. You will not want to wear pants, or even shoes and socks, trust me. 

Being prepared for humidity also means knowing what to do with your hair. This is a big mistake I made during my visit. I normally flat iron my hair each day, which I also did while in Colombia.

The problem was that as soon as I walked outside, my hair became a fluffy mess. I didn’t have one good hair day the whole time I was in Colombia. 

My advice is to bring a really good hair product that will take the volume and fluff out of your hair. Whatever you choose, bring a lot of it. You’ll be using much more than usual. 

3. Visit the rooftop bars at sunset

The rooftop bars in Cartagena are the perfect way to watch a sunset and end a long day of exploring the city.

You’ll find dozens of them all around the walled city, each with its own character and ambiance. 

Here are just a few to get you started:

• Movich Hotel

I recommend not hitting up the rooftop bars until the sun begins to set. You do not want to be sitting on a rooftop in the hot midday Colombia sun while drinking alcohol.

But once the sun goes down, all bets are off. Many of the rooftop bars have a pool too, so if it’s still too hot, bring your bikini. 

4. Get on a boat

If you’re going to be spending time along the beautiful Caribbean beaches of South America, you really should get out on the water .

Just off the coast of Cartagena you’ll find the Rosario Islands . The islands make up one of the country’s national parks, which was created to protect the nearby coral reef. 

Visitors to the islands can go swimming, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even jet skiing.

The beaches can get a bit crowded on some of the islands, but not all. If you end up renting a private boat for the day, ask to go to some of the more remote areas.

If that’s not an option just plan to arrive early before the crowds arrive. 

Be advised that the return trip to Cartagena from the Rosario Islands can get a little choppy.

If you are nervous on boats at all, you’ll want to make sure you get back earlier in the day as opposed to late afternoon. I was told the waves get bigger the later you return.

5. Enjoy Colombian cuisine

One of the best things about Colombia is the food. If you’ve never tried Colombian cuisine before, you’re in for a real treat.

During your entire time here, I recommend trying as many different things as you can handle. 

Due to the country’s location on the Caribbean coast, you’ll find plenty of fresh seafood and fish. If you’re not a seafood fan like me don’t worry, there’s plenty of other options. 

You’ll find the majority of Colombian cuisine to be fresh and flavorful.

There are great restaurant scenes in Cartagena and Medellin if you’re looking for some nice restaurants to try in the evenings. 

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, try the local street food in Cartagena, or stop into one of the local restaurants outside the main tourist zones. 

6. Spend time in Medellin

While it’s true Medellin has a complicated past, present-day Medellin has lots to offer.

In recent years Medellin has grown into a popular, yet affordable place to visit with an up and coming art scene, trendy restaurants, and abundance of outdoor adventure opportunities nearby.

In fact, due to its affordability Medellin has also become one of the most popular digital nomad destinations in the world and now has a large expat community.

Popular things to see in Medellin include Parque Arvi, Jardin Botanico, and Casa de la Memoria.

If you like street art, you definitely don’t want to miss a visit to the city’s notorious Comuna 13 neighborhood. This now artsy neighborhood has transformed itself from its violent past when it used to be better known for cartel activity.

Those looking to enjoy the outdoors and explore a bit outside Medellin can take a day trip to nearby Guatape . You can also book a guided tour to Guatape here .

To get to Medellin you can book short domestic flights from either Cartagena or Bogotá or any other nearby major cities.

7. Get Colombian Pesos

If you’re going to be traveling around Colombia, especially in rural areas, you’ll want to have Colombian Pesos (COP) on you at all times.

Try to keep small denominations in your wallet so you can pay for low-cost items like street food, souvenirs, or tips.

Many small family-owned restaurants do not take credit cards and may not have change for large bills. So just to be on the safe side, keep cash on you whenever possible.

I encourage you to do a little research before you arrive so you know where to get the best deal on Colombian Pesos.

For most people, pulling cash out at an ATM will be a much better deal than using a currency exchange in an airport or in touristy areas.

You might want to contact your bank ahead of time and ask about any foreign transaction fees or exchange rates.

As of July 2022, the conversation rate is about: $1.00 USD is equivalent to $4,490.58 COP.

8. Explore on foot

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to get out there and see it on foot. Have a general destination in mind and then just explore.

I’ve had some of the best times and stumbled upon some of the most interesting things when just out walking around in a new place. 

When exploring a new city on foot you get to see it slowly and up close. It’s also easy to stop and take a closer look at anything that catches your eye. 

The walled city in Cartagena is especially great to explore on foot. There’s not much traffic and the area is fairly small.

There are tons of unique local shops, restaurants, and bars to check out. Plus, without a car you don’t have to worry about parking and you can save that rental car money for more food or drinks.

If where you’re headed is too far to walk you can always take a taxi, or use public transport if you’d like to save money.

9. Wear sunscreen everyday

While in Colombia you’ll be close to the equator and will likely have more sun exposure than normal. So be sure to bring a high SPF sunscreen with you and bring a lot of it.

You’ll want to make sure to cover any exposed areas with sunscreen before you leave your hotel room each day.

It is recommended that you reapply your sunscreen several times throughout the day.

Make sure to bring a reef-safe sunscreen and one that is water-resistant. If you’ll be in or near the water, reapply your sunscreen every half hour or so.

You may also wish to bring a sun hat to help protect your face and eyes.

10. Talk with the locals

Another thing you’re going to love about visiting Colombia is the friendliness of the people.

You’ll notice immediately that Colombians are welcoming and friendly, and many love to talk to foreigners.

If you get the opportunity, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation. Getting to know the locals is a great way to get to know a place.

Plus, chatting it up with the local residents is the perfect way to get Insider information on the best things to do and best restaurants in the area.

Never underestimate the power of good advice from a local. 

11. Dress nicely

By dress nicely, I do not mean to wear expensive or fancy clothes.

I only mean that you might want to plan your outfits each day so that you feel confident and look nice in your pictures.

Colombia is a beautiful country, especially the streets of Cartagena. Trust me, you’re going to be taking a ton of photos.

I don’t usually wear dresses, like ever! But I packed a few on this trip because I knew I would be going out in the evenings with the other girls and I wanted to look put together in my photos.

Consider packing solid colorful items to mix and match.

12. Explore smaller neighborhoods

Many times, the most interesting things to see and do in a new city will be found outside of the city center and main tourist areas.

Look into exploring nearby residential neighborhoods or the fun artsy neighborhoods that tend to be on the outskirts of the city. 

If you’re visiting Cartagena, walk over to the Getsemani neighborhood for lunch or coffee. While you’re there explore the streets and check out all the great street art. 

If you’ll be in Medellin make your way over to Comuna 13. This neighborhood was formerly known as one of the most dangerous places in the country due to the incredibly high number of homicides.

The area has since reinvented itself and is now home to some of the world’s best street art.

This is also where you’ll find some amazing views of the surrounding city. Book a walking tour so you don’t miss out on the fascinating history of this area. 

13. Explore outside the big cities

These travel tips for Colombia are designed to help you have the best trip possible, and that includes seeing as much of the country as you can.

There’s so much to see outside the big cities of Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota.

Colombia is a huge country and its full of natural beauty and charming small towns.

Getting outside the cities is a great way to experience another side of the country and see what life is like in rural areas. 

Just outside Medellin is the small town of Guatape , known for the massive rock pictured above. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock for some incredible views of the surrounding countryside.

There’s also a lake nearby where you can go swimming, kayaking, and even parasailing.

Whatever you’re into when it comes to outdoor adventure, you can do it in Colombia.

Even if you don’t feel comfortable renting a car and driving outside the city, there are tons of day tours available that can take you anywhere you want to go. 

• Day tours from Medellin .
• Tours from Cartagena.

If you’re looking for some outdoors time, consider a road trip to Tayrona National Park or Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta National Park.

Both of these locations offer great hiking opportunities and the latter is home to the famous Lost City.

14. Consider hiring a private driver

If you’re going to be exploring Medellin or any other of the other large cities, consider hiring a private driver while you are there.

This is an especially good deal if you want to get to areas outside of the big cities to explore the smaller towns and national parks.

During my visit earlier this year, our group ended up hiring a private driver for two days while in Medellin.

Our driver was wonderful and took us on a tour of the city, out to Comuna 13, and even out to Guatape Rock and the city of Guatape.

Had we taken Ubers or taxis everywhere, we likely would have ended up in two separate cars on multiple occasions, so we felt better knowing we could get from place to place in the same vehicle for a much lowewr price.

15. Spend a day at the beach

While there is so much to see and do exploring the cities of Colombia, be sure not to miss a relaxing day at the beach.

You should take advantage of the beautiful Caribbean waters and sunny weather at least once during your visit. 

You’ll find long stretches of sandy beaches along the Cartagena coast near the city center.

If you prefer a more remote experience, you can take a private boat out to the nearby Rosario Islands . The water surrounding these islands is calm and the most beautiful shade of blue.

If you have your own boat you can visit several of the islands on your own time. If you have a few people to share the cost with, even better.

16. Purchase travel insurance

Traveling Soon? Don’t forget your travel insurance.

• Travel insurance is now more important than ever.
• Travel insurance is probably less than you think it is. (Ex. For a week in Spain next month I’m paying less than $62.00.)
• Travel insurance covers a lot more than you think it does.
• It’s better to have it, than need it and wish you’d bought it.
• See for yourself. Check prices here .

A post about travel tips for Colombia would not be complete if I didn’t mention travel insurance.

If you’re ever going to be traveling outside your home country, I always recommend purchasing travel insurance.

Travel insurance can be especially important if you plan on participating in adventurous activities. 

When you’re in an unfamiliar place, moving around a lot and trying lots of new things, you never know when something might go wrong.

It’s better to be safe and have the insurance, then trying to figure out what to do if you happen to hurt yourself in another country.

Travel insurance is surprisingly affordable and can be purchased in just a few minutes.

If you’re wondering where to purchase travel insurance, I use World Nomads .

Is it safe to travel Colombia?

Is Colombia safe? In short, yes it is. If you use common sense as you would anywhere else you are traveling you should not have any problems.

As I’m sure you are aware, Colombia has a bad reputation due to its long and storied past filled with drug cartels and violent crime.

But truth be told, the days of Pablo Escobar are long gone and the country is undergoing a positive and impressive transformation.

As a result, violent crime is way down, tourism is way up, and the streets of Cartagena are calling.

Here are a few common-sense travel tips for Colombia that will keep you safe while traveling around the country:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t walk around with your face in your phone. Stay alert and look around.
• Don’t flash your money around. If you’re paying for something on the street, be discreet and pull out just the amount you need.
• Don’t wear expensive jewelry, clothing, or accessories. Leave your designer items at home and don’t dress flashy. Basically, don’t give people the opportunity to take advantage of you. As the locals would say “no dar papaya” which roughly translates to “don’t give papaya.”
• Don’t wander around at night. If you plan to go out in the evenings, take a taxi. You don’t want to be walking around on deserted streets or in the big cities if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
• Don’t be waving your cell phone around. Keep it in your purse or pocket and only use it when you need it.
• Keep your bag or purse close to your body. Wear a cross-body purse and keep it zipped up.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these travel tips for Colombia and found them useful in planning your own trip. If you have any Colombia travel tips of your own you’d like to share, let me know. I’d love to hear from you.

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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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13 Important Tips For First-Timers Visiting Colombia

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There Are More Things To Know When Visiting Colombia

• Eat at the hotel for cleanliness and safety.
• Bring enough cash for daily activities, especially in remote areas.
• Learn basic Spanish to navigate the country and communicate effectively.

Visiting Colombia for the first time can be exciting, but just like any destination worldwide, there are some tips one needs to know before visiting. Language, weather, money, and transportation can be quite confusing, especially in Colombia. Still, with these tips, one will be able to avoid a lot of difficult situations in the country. It doesn't matter if you're here for ten days or three; Colombia is a gorgeous country with endless things to experience. Whether it's someone's first time or they need a refresher, you can't go wrong with following these essential tips for traveling to beautiful Colombia!

UPDATE: 2023/11/25 16:36 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding a trip to beautiful Colombia, as well as expanded talking points for previous suggestions. Remember to stay out of bad neighborhoods at night, bring enough cash for day trips, learn some Spanish, and have plenty of fun!

13 Eat At The Hotel If You're Worried About Cleanliness

For those coming to Colombia and nervous about food and water cleanliness, it's always a safe bet to eat with your hotel or resort and get water via gift shops inside them. Although most places in bigger Colombian cities are clean and safe, some smaller villages do not abide by strict health and sanitation regulations when preparing or serving food and drinks. To steer clear of food-borne illness, make sure and book restaurants with good reviews and clean kitchens/dining rooms.

• It's generally better to eat at the hotel if you're staying somewhere off the beaten path.

Tayrona National Park is a fun day trip idea for visitors to Colombia.

12 Make Sure And Keep Some Cash Ready

One thing many visitors to Colombia forget is to bring enough cash for daily activities. Because debit and credit cards are often not accepted or take a large conversion fee, getting cash from the bank or at your hotel may be the better option. Of course, in bigger cities, there will be more accessibility and availability to ATMs and stores taking credit cards, but in remote towns and villages: bring cash.

That said, keep all cash somewhere safe and hard to get to. Pickpocketing is prevalent here, as well as violent assault in poorer areas.

• Because of steep ATM and credit card fees, it's best to bring enough money for everyday food, attractions, and transportation when visiting Colombia.

11 Learn Some Spanish Words

Colombia is a place where the majority of the population speaks only Spanish. In a place like Bogotá - the capital city , most people only speak Spanish, which means it can be difficult to get around if one only knows English. While one does not necessarily need to know how to speak the language, some basic words will go a long way and help one better get around the country.

• Learning basic Spanish will go a long way when coming to Colombia.

10 Taxis Are Cheap, But Buses Are Cheaper And Safer

Buses are Colombia's main means of transportation, and they are incredibly cheap and safe. Taxis, on the other hand, are also cheap, but a few inconveniences come with them. First, they can be unsafe, as fake taxi drivers can rob passengers. Apps such as Uber and Easy Taxi are illegal in the country, but they are still in operation and are the safest ways to get taxis.

• Taking the bus is often cheaper and safer than taxis while in Colombia.

9 Avoid Lonely Areas, Especially At Night

Just like many other amazing destinations worldwide, Colombia experiences increased crime, which is why one must exercise extreme caution when visiting. A good rule is avoiding lonely areas, especially at night. For the first trip, travelers can stick to the popular tourist destinations around the country, which are usually more crowded, to avoid being an easy target.

• Tourists to Colombia are not recommended to venture out into lonely/quiet areas at night.

8 Avoid Unnecessary Display Of Wealth

Showing unnecessary displays of wealth, especially in a country like Colombia, may be dangerous. The country's economy is bad, which has made many people living there desperate. It is advisable to avoid putting on too many accessories or carrying large amounts of money around to avoid drawing too much attention to oneself.

• Wearing fancy clothes, jewelry, or other accessories in Colombia can get you into trouble at night or in certain areas.

7 Prepare An Itinerary To Follow Before Visiting

Colombia is very big and endowed with plenty of natural and man-made attractions, which means there are plenty of things to see and do here. Without a proper itinerary of what to do in the country, one can find it difficult to get the most out of their visit. During the planning process, make a list of things to do in the country and follow that itinerary when in the country. There will be more to do, but it is better to have a plan rather than randomly deciding what to do.

• Planning before you come here can help ease frustration due to Colombia's vast offerings.

Related: 10 Best Places To Visit In Colombia

6 The Weather Can Be Unpredictable, So Come Prepared

Colombia experiences two major seasons, which are rainy and dry. But the weather is not usually not dependent on the time of the year but on elevation. The weather can easily change from sunny to rainy in some parts of the country with higher elevations, like Bogotá. The temperature is also known to sometimes rise from as low as 4 degrees Celsius to 19 degrees Celsius on some days. Some parts of the country, such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, experience lots of sunshine all year round. This means at any time of the year; one can experience all four seasons in Colombia. With such diverse and unpredictable weather, one has to come prepared to face any type of weather in this country.

• The weather is unpredictable in Colombia, with wild changes in temperature being common.

5 Never Talk About Drugs, Especially Cocaine

One important thing to always avoid doing in Colombia is talking about drugs. Drug production and trafficking continue to increase in this country, and drug is always accompanied by crime. This makes it not just a national issue but a global issue for which Colombia plays a major role as it is one of the major producers of cocaine in the world. In 2021, the production of coca leaves which is the main ingredient for cocaine, increased drastically. To avoid getting into a difficult situation, pretend not to know anything about drugs in Colombia and instead focus on enjoying the amazing things the country has to offer.

• Joking or discussing cocaine can and will get you in trouble with law enforcement in Colombia.

4 Haggle Before Buying Something

The asking price of a product in Colombia may not always be the actual price but just the seller trying to get more profit from tourists who may not know the price. To avoid getting ripped by sellers (who always know a gringo when they see one), employ the skill of bargaining when purchasing something. Buying something $5 less than the initial asking price is not uncommon.

• It's worth it to try and bargain with vendors while shopping in Colombia.

3 Altitude Sickness Is Real In Colombia

In Colombia, like many parts of South America, high altitude is something that one often has to worry about as the country is filled with many mountains. Bogota, the country’s capital, rises to an elevation of 8,660 feet , making it one of the highest cities in the world. One important tip to help deal with altitude sickness in Colombia is to always stay hydrated when heading to places with high altitudes. Adventurers seeking to go rock climbing or visit higher places can also include other substances like vitamins and minerals to cushion the effects of the high altitudes. Alcohol, caffeine, and other dehydrating substances should also be avoided when heading to higher elevations.

• Because of the possible 8,660 feet of elevation in Colombia, it's not uncommon for altitude sickness to ravage through groups vacationing to the country.

Related: Tips To Avoid The Altitude Sickness While Traveling In South America

2 It’s Not Mandatory To Tip

In hotels, bars, restaurants, and other service centers around Colombia, tipping is not usually mandatory or expected, unlike in other countries. Nicer restaurants usually include a 10% service charge automatically on the bill. Of course, if the service was exceptional, it does not hurt to give the service person some extra change. Tipping taxi drivers is also not a thing as passengers are only required to pay the amount on the meter; still, the extra tip is always appreciated. In most cases, tips cost between 2,000 and 5,000 Columbian Pesos, equivalent to a dollar. That's like nothing to most tourists, but the locals in Colombia appreciate it so much.

• Adding a tip (although appreciated) is not required in Colombia.

1 Be Careful On The Roads

The traffic in Colombia can be chaotic. Drivers here are usually impatient and aggressive and won’t stop for anybody. To avoid getting into a dangerous situation on the road, it is important to be careful on the roads. With dangerous roads and long traffic jams, it will be better to avoid driving in Colombia and just stick to using taxis and buses.

• Driving can be difficult here, especially regarding other impatient and volatile drivers.
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Traveling to Colombia: What to Know and Where to Go

Colombia has been one of the best kept “secrets” of South America as it sheds its previously violent past full of civil strife and narcos, to one of the coolest tourist hot spots. I decided to start my South American backpacking adventures by traveling to Colombia and then working my way south, but I loved it so much that a few planned months turned into a year and I never even made it to Ecuador and beyond as originally planned.

Since then I have settled down in Medellin, Colombia as an expat, spending more than two years in total in Colombia, and traveling virtually all over the country from Palomino on the coast to Mocoa in the south, and everywhere in between.

Traveling to Colombia

Colombia has a little bit of everything to offer tourists:

History lovers will enjoy trekking to the Lost City or seeing the ancient statues in San Agustin.

Beach lovers will love the many beautiful beaches along the Caribbean Coast, like those near Cartagena or Palomino, or the wild and virgin Pacific Coast.

Big city lovers will dig the sprawling cosmopolitan metropolis of Bogota or the innovative and cutting edge city of Medellin.

Nature lovers will enjoy the sprawling canyon of Chicamocha, the snowcapped Andean mountains, or the many natural wonders throughout the country.

Colombia has an incredible history, warm and friendly people, a vibrant culture full of music, art, and dancing, good food and exotic fruits, and so much more.

In the following guide to Colombia, I will be covering some of the most common questions about Colombia, general itinerary advice, and cover the highlights of this incredible country.

Is it Safe to Travel to Colombia?

This is always the big question for anyone considering traveling to Colombia for the first time… Just the name Colombia conjures about bad news about kidnappings, drug kingpins, civil strife, paramilitary forces, guerrilla fighters, and so much more.

That history was certainly real, and it wasn’t even that long ago, but thankfully things have changed dramatically over the past 10 years or more, and Colombia is a perfectly reasonable place to travel to.

There’s really no reason to worry about kidnapping, narcos, or guerillas in today’s Colombia. Now does that mean it’s totally safe? No, you should still exercise common-sense precautions when it comes to day to day safety and security.

Colombia is much like the rest of Latin America in that you should exercise precautions about valuables and be aware of the possibility of robberies or theft.

It’s not likely to happen if you exercise precaution and a little street smarts, but there always exists the possibility of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Read More: Is Colombia Safe?

Best Time to Travel to Colombia?

December through March is considered to be the best season to visit Colombia because this tends to be the driest time. This is also the high season for travelers, both Colombians and foreigners, so prices can soar in super touristy areas like Cartagena.

But honestly, Colombia is a year-round travel destination thanks to its position near the equator.

Even during rainy seasons, the rains aren’t usually enough to severely impact your trip. For instance, the normal in Medellin during the rainy season is a heavy but short deluge in the afternoons. It rarely rains for days on end, but the rains are strong and intense when they do come.

There are parts of the country that can be prone to landslides, which could impact bus travel between cities, especially in more remote regions, so it helps to stay aware of these things and talk to the locals. For the most part, the landslides are fixed within a day and traffic is moving again.

Read more about the best time to visit Colombia here.

Basic Facts About Colombia

• Colombia is home to approximately 50 million people, making it the fourth most populous country in the Americas, after the United States, Brazil, and Mexico .
• In terms of land area, it’s the fourth largest in South America, after Brazil, Argentina, and Peru.
• They use the Colombian Peso, which has recently been about 4,000 pesos per dollar. The easiest conversion is just adding or dropping three zeroes and multiplying or dividing by four. So 180,000 pesos is: drop three zeros for 180, divide by four for 45, so roughly $45 USD.

Prices in Colombia

If you’re thinking about traveling to Colombia, then you may be concerned about how much you need to budget daily. For budget travelers, you honestly couldn’t have picked a better destination, because it’s possible to do a lot on a very small budget.

This is due both to the fact that a dollar goes pretty far there at the current exchange rate, and also there are simply a lot of cheaper options for the budget-conscious traveler. Here are some travel tips for seeing Colombia on a budget.

Take Advantage of Free and Cheap Activities

One of the great things about many of the places in Colombia is that there are many things to do for free. Most mid to large cities have free walking tours that give you the opportunity to see much more of the area and learn a great deal more than you otherwise would on your own.

These tours are the perfect opportunity to get off the beaten path and forge your own trail and memories. What’s more, on Sundays many museums in Colombia are free, as well. Of course, each city is different when it comes to free offerings, so a little research is always good (the individual city guides below will help).

Even activities that cost money are relatively cheap in Colombia. It only costs about 50,000 Colombian Pesos (COP) to enter most national parks in Colombia. At today’s rate, that’s about $10.00! Coffee Finca tours are also cheap, some as little as 15,000COP ($3.00).

Plus you can find all sorts of other fun activities ranging from multi-day trekking to adventure sports or activities (like whitewater rafting, paragliding, rappelling, and much more) that offer a great value.

Like many places, Colombian cities have many dining options, but one of the cheapest food options is available on the streets. You can often fill your belly for a fraction of what you would pay in a restaurant – for less than 12,000 COP (about $4.00) — but if you do prefer going to a restaurant, you can still find budget-friendly options.

Street food is the cheapest way to go when eating at night, but one of the best values is at lunchtime when you can grab a fixed course menu of the day for around 12,000 COP which includes a soup, a main plate with your choice of protein, and a fresh fruit juice. It is an incredible value!

Typically, a meal at a fast-food restaurant will run about 20,000 COP to 25,000 COP ($5-7). If you go to a more upscale sit-down restaurant, you can expect to around 30,000 and up for the main dish (typically between $8-15).

Find Cheap Accommodation

Another thing that’s super cheap in Colombia is accommodations. A typical budget hotel room might run about 60,000 COP (about $15), and that will usually include free WiFi and sometimes even breakfast. Of course, you can always pay more to get more, but if you’re looking to sleep cheap, there are many options. You can even go cheaper and find dorm rooms or hostels which are the most budget-friendly options. A bed in a shared dorm here might run about 20,000 COP ($5) or so.

If you are traveling as a couple, it is better to grab a private room rather than a dorm since the price is almost the same. That goes for traveling with a friend too since the rate for two single beds is usually the same price as one double bed.

Read more about finding cheap accommodation here.

As you can see, it’s easy to experience Colombia on a budget. Whether you’re backpacking Colombia or trying to travel in slightly more comfortable settings, almost everything you end up doing will cost less than you would expect.

Traveling to Colombia often means you can get by spending as little as $25-30 a day and still enjoy great food, fun, and sleep in relative comfort! It offers one of the best values for the dollar in all of South America, for sure.

Hostel Guides:

• Best Hostels in Medellin
• Best Hostels in Cartagena
• Best Hostels in Bogota

Colombia Map and Guide

Attached with each point on the map is a link to additional resources and information about each destination, so you can plan your trip while traveling to Colombia in terms of the destinations in nearby areas. I hope it proves helpful as you decide where to travel in Colombia and as you are planning your trip.

Before Traveling to Colombia

Mistakes People Make When Planning a Trip to Colombia – It is important to bear these things in mind so you will have a smooth and great trip.

Is Colombia Safe? – It’s a common question and the answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Yes, Colombia is safer than its reputation and the media would have you believe, but not totally safe.

Places to Visit in Colombia – Colombia is a BIG country with a lot to see, so it can be hard to winnow down where to go and what to do, here’s what I’d recommend as top picks.

Travel Insurance for Colombia – Every traveler to Colombia should have basic insurance which will help protect them from theft, injury, and illness.

Colombia Packing List – Here’s what I took with me as a backpacker, equipped for camping, city travel, volunteer work, and a variety of climates found throughout Colombia.

Resources to Learn Spanish – English isn’t common at all in Colombia, so you should have a basic familiarity with Spanish before you arrive, but be sure to take Spanish classes upon arrival as well.

Colombia City Guides

Santa Marta, Colombia – A gritty but cool city along the sweltering Caribbean Coast, one that I preferred to the touristy and heavily trafficked city of Cartagena.

Bogota, Colombia – The bustling and cosmopolitan capital city of Colombia… It’s a place that can overwhelm the senses, but there is undoubtedly so much to see and do here.

Popayan, Colombia – A pleasant little colonial pueblo known as the “White City” and for some delicious food. This was an unexpectedly great place, even after seeing lots of old, colonial cities.

Cartagena, Colombia – What is undoubtedly the main tourist destination for both Colombians and international travelers, a place with colorful and vibrant streets, offering plenty to do.

Cali, Colombia – A big, hot, and humid city that might be a little rougher around the edges compared to Medellin, but it’s full of salsa and a lot of heart.

Armenia, Colombia – A city that was once devasted by a major earthquake has undergone a rebirth and is a great stop in the heart of the Coffee Triangle.

Manizales, Colombia – Perhaps my favorite city in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, with lots to do both in town and the surrounding area. The setting of the town is particularly incredible.

Medellin, Colombia – My favorite city in Colombia, and the place where I am most familiar, having spent two years living year, so there’s plenty more to dig into if you’re traveling to Medellin, including:

• 3 Days in Medellin – A structured and organized itinerary for three days of the coolest things to do, see and eat.
• Where to Stay in Medellin – An overview of the coolest neighborhoods for every type of traveler along with some specific recommendations about hostels/hotels in each area.
• Best Tours & Activities in Medellin – A few awesome things to see and do which will make your trip even more fulfilling and memorable.
• Guide to Laureles, Medellin – My favorite neighborhood in Medellin and a detailed guide for getting around and where to go.
• Guide to Medellin Centro – A detailed guide to Medellin’s downtown, places to go, things to do, where to eat, and where to grab a drink or a cup of coffee.
• Guide to Envigado – A detailed guide to the coolest area in the south, Envigado.
• The Best Coffee in Medellin – My favorite coffee shops for real coffee in a place where they mostly drink instant.
• Molecular Gastronomy aka the Fanciest Meal of My Life – Have a world-class dining experience for a fraction of what it costs in the States.
• Where to Learn Spanish in Medellin – A few options for where to settle down and learn Spanish, and what I’d recommend.
• Cost of Living in Medellin, Colombia – The cost of a month of living as an ex-pat in this wonderful city.
• Great Beer in Medellin – In a place filled with watery beers, there are some small craft breweries putting out great products.

Small Towns in Colombia

Salento, Colombia – A city that is perhaps most famous for the wax palms that lay outside of town, but there is still plenty to see and do in this great little pueblo.

Jardin, Colombia – A colorful and attractive pueblo that sits just a few hours south of Medellin, there is plenty to do here if you enjoy kicking back for a bit while traveling to Colombia.

San Gil, Colombia – This little town is considered the capital of adventure sports in Colombia, a place where you can go white water rafting, paragliding, and more — all on the same day.

Palomino, Colombia – A small and super sleepy ocean-side fishing village where you can kick back, camp on the beach, or hop in an inner tube and float down a jungle river. One of my favorite days in Colombia was here.

Nature and Outdoors in Colombia

Hiking the Valle de Cocora – Perhaps one of the most unique natural landscapes in Colombia, where towering wax palms stand over verdant green valleys. This is a must-do when traveling to Colombia.

Hot Springs at Santa Rosa de Cabal – Along the edge of the coffee triangle, you’ll find the impressive hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal, a great escape or side trip from Manizales, Pereira, or Armenia.

Rio Claro Nature Reserve – The Rio Claro Nature Reserve sits a few hours east of Medellin, and makes for a great escape to go camping, jump in a swimming hole, or just enjoy a nature break.

Trekking in the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy – Take a visit to the Andes and see snow-capped mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and high and windy mountain passes. An incredible and remote place to visit.

Other Activities in Colombia

Touring a Coffee Farm – If you love coffee then you’ve got to make a point to visit a coffee farm while traveling to Colombia and spend some time in the heart of the coffee region, it’s an awesome and memorable experience.

Hacienda Napoles – The former escape of the infamous Pablo Escobar , where he created his own African safari including hippos. This is a place where you can learn about the true devastation caused by Pablo.

Colombia is an incredible country, and much safer than you would imagine it to be if you pay attention to all the horrific news or read too much into the State Department Travel Warnings.

But if you’re planning on traveling to Colombia, you should also be aware of a few things…

Guide to Colombian Food – Most people are curious about what there is to eat in Colombia, well I’ve explored the vast majority of its cuisine, so this huge guide should give you a good place to start as you travel through the country.

Colombia Tours

Hit the ground running when planning your trip to Colombia by booking a few tours or activities in advance.

• Best Tours in Medellin
• Best Tours in Cartagena
• Best Tours in Bogota

Travel Insurance

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance to protect yourself against theft, sickness, and injury. I use and recommend World Nomads for the best combination of affordability and coverage.

Need Help Planning a Trip to Colombia?

If you need help planning a trip to Colombia and would appreciate getting a local Colombian to help organize your time, maximize your experiences, recommend some hidden gems, and ensure that you have a fun and unforgettable trip, then check out the folks at ViaHero for a totally unique and personally customized trip plan and itinerary that is specifically tailored for you and your interests.

Desk to Dirtbag readers get an exclusive 5% discount to help for planning a trip to Colombia.

Colombia Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Colombia, based on my years of traveling and living in Colombia.

Colombia Trip Planning

• Lonely Planet Colombia
• Momondo Flight Search
• ViaHero Itinerary Planning
• Booking.com
• SafetyWing Travel Insurance
• Get Your Guide Tours

Instructions

• Book a cheap fligh t to Colombia with Momondo , or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free. Traveling between major cities is much better by flying, trust me.
• Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend at each destination. Use an itinerary planning service for custom recommendations and pick up Lonely Planet Colombia .
• Work a little every day to teach yourself Spanish , you'll want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
• Book cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking , for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com , for apartments use: Airbnb .
• Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide .
• Purchase travel insurance for Colombia with SafetyWing to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Colombia. VERY important. And be sure to read my article: " Is Colombia Safe? " for my honest opinion and safety tips.
• Sign up for my free emails about planning a better trip to Colombia, and be sure to check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Colombia .
• Learn more money-saving tricks with my top budget travel tips .
• Put together your Colombia packing list .
• Enjoy this incredible country!

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Colombia! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Colombia, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Colombia, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at [email protected].

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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Great article! Colombia is an excellent destination if you love nature and hiking. When I went there last year I visited the Cocora Valley and I was impressed with such beauty! I recommend it very much! And this is not the only spot where you can do a wonderful hiking in the country, there are others!

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9 things to know before you travel to Colombia

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

We’ve honestly never met anyone who didn’t rave about Colombia. We came for 4 weeks armed with Colombia travel tips from all the enamoured backpackers we’d met on our trip so far, and ended up spending 9 months there. We used Bogotá as a homebase to have a more settled-feeling life in between stints of active travel.

After 2 years on the road, we really can’t put into words how good it felt to have a home away from home; somewhere we could have a routine, unpack our backpacks into wardrobes and have non-transient friends with no pressure to go out and see new tourist attractions every day. Bogotá , we love you!!

Over the last few years, Colombia’s TERRIBLE global reputation has shifted incredibly. Far from its bloody past, Colombia is doing fantastically to heal its deep wounds and move forward as a country. We were shown nothing but kindness from the locals, with many of them telling us to go home and show our friends how great it is to travel to Colombia now that it’s overcoming its recent history. People there are so incredibly keen to turn their nation’s reputation around.

And whilst you may worry that Netflix hits such as Narcos may have scared tourists off travel to Colombia, if anything they seem to have fuelled a desire to explore the country instead. However, you still need to be respectful when you visit, we’ll touch on that a little later.

If you’re looking for local guides to make your time in Colombia more immersive, check out what’s available here . Viahero specialises in matching travellers with locals to give people an authentic look into daily life, and also make sure their money is going directly to the community.

Once you’ve gotten stuck into the 9 things to know before you travel to Colombia, here are our most popular Colombia posts for you to have a gander of:

• 16 safety tips for Bogotá and beyond
• Cost of living in Colombia 2020
• 2 weeks Colombia itinerary
• Colombian films, documentaries & TV Shows (that aren’t Narcos)

9 Colombia travel tips before you go:

1. ecuador-colombia border queues can get ridiculous.

Although we got incredibly lucky, turning up to the border to find ourselves the only people in the queue (no, seriously) as we’d opted to travel to Colombia on the very important Easter weekend, most people’s experiences of the Ecuador-Colombia border are horror stories. We’ve known people who queued in either direction for 14 hours and were still turned away, having to try again the next morning. Thursday to Sunday is apparently extra busy, so try to aim to cross early in the week.

There are flights from Quito to Bogotá and then onto Cali , but then you may have to sacrifice going to places such as Ipiales in the south (and we really recommend you go there if you have the time).

2020 Ecuador-Colombian border update: Be aware that due to the worsening Venezuelan crisis, at times the Ecuador-Colombian border has become difficult or even dangerous to cross by foot. The Colombian government is generally sympathetic to the people who had to flee Venezuela over the last couple of years, but bureaucratic and political issues across South America mean that thousands of people end up being stuck on either side of land borders.

They have created separate queues for those with visa privileges and those escaping Venezuela, but you need to be on guard whilst in the area as people are in a fairly desperate situation.

2. Consider learning the lingo in Colombia

Colombia is one of the best places in Latin America to learn Spanish . The type of Spanish spoken across Colombia is generally slow, clear and free from too much slang. Schools are much cheaper than the southern region of South America, but Guatemala, Mexico and Bolivia will of course beat it on overall cost of living and studying. Medellín is a big hub for Spanish-learners, and there’s always something going on to help you enjoy a longer stay while you study.

3. Pleeeease don’t take a gimmicky Escobar tour

Pretty please. Nothing hurts the majority of Colombian people more than people idolising the guy who helped tear their country to pieces for years and even after death continued to ruin their reputation almost beyond repair. Westerners like to claim that locals see him as a Robin Hood figure, but that’s only a tiny fraction of the population for whom he built houses – essentially in return for a hideout territory and the loyalty of the residents who then got sucked into dying/killing for him in the narco wars.

There are so many ways you can learn about this painful time in Colombia’s history and how they’ve somehow pulled through without rolling around Medellín with a guide dressed in a floral shirt and fake moustache, pretending to shoot passersby. Escobar is like Voldemort in most of Colombia; many locals won’t even take kindly to you mentioning his name.

The Comuna 13 Graffiti tour in Medellín is an example of a tasteful way to get a run-down on the history and legacy of the narco wars in Colombia, and to see how a community can pull together to build a more hopeful future. Once inaccessible even to police, it’s now a staple on the tourism trail (but don’t go there without a guide!).

4. Don’t worry that you don’t have a Colombian Cédula

Pretty much anything you pay for on card, you will be asked for your Cédula, which is an identification number given to residents. Don’t panic that you haven’t got one; just tell them your passport number (have a photo of your passport to hand if you don’t speak Spanish). You’ll usually be asked for a copy of an ID anyway so they can check it matches the card – they’re pretty hot on guarding against fraud!

5. Safety in Colombia: Choose your level of risk

While the country has surely pulled itself back towards the right track in the last couple of decades and is making huge headway economically, socially and politically, please still exercise caution. Crime against gringos seems to disproportionately happen to young men looking for drugs or sex – go looking for trouble and it won’t be long until trouble finds you .

To keep safe in the sprawling capital (but with Colombia travel tips for staying secure elsewhere in the country too), I’ve written a guide on 16 safety pointers for your stay in Bogotá .

Please note that if you are going to travel to Colombia as a sex tourist (grim as that sounds/is), Colombia does have a problem with underage prostitution, so at least have the decency to use common sense in whether to believe the age they tell you they are.

And one of those Colombia travel tips that sounds silly but could just save your dignity/life: if an attractive woman is coming onto you strongly at a bar and it seems too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true.

Almost all of the reports on expat groups of usage of Devil’s Breath (scopolamine) – a truth serum-like drug that turns you into a zombie and results in you gladly helping the spiker take all of your money and things from your apartment – come from men who think they’re about to have the night of their lives with the woman (or women) of their dreams. Remember to think with your actual brain, fellas. The one in your head.

6. Uber can be sketchy

Although fully functional, Uber is not currently legal in Colombia. You will still be able to pick up an Uber driver in any major city, but they will likely ask you to sit in the front so as to look like a friend, and they may freak out if you can’t speak enough Spanish to tell the authorities how much you know them if stopped.

We have to admit, we’ve been caught twice by transport police when using an Uber to and from the airports in Medellín and Bogotá. They took copies of our passport but we’re not sure what they did with the info. One Uber driver got a big old fine, whilst it seems the other got arrested as he was a repeat offender.

We now use Cabify to get to the airport at odd hours of the day, or take a yellow taxi when possible (in Bogotá, a taxi from the centre to the airport should cost 25-35,000 COP). Check out our complete guide to Bogotá to learn how to use the Transmilenio bus system and find out more about using taxis in the city.

7. It’s Colombia, not Columbia

If you’re going to visit a new country, have the respect to learn how to spell it! We see on our keywording tool that sooooo many people search for ‘Columbia South America’ on Google, and they probably then wonder why their results are rubbish. Some locals get quite annoyed if you mix up their country with the various North American cities called Columbia.

8. Internal flights are super cheap in Colombia

Colombia is home to many budget airlines that specialise in internal and short-haul flights. Troubles a couple of decades ago that left many of the roads in rural Colombia unsafe triggered the then-president to put rules in place to cap the cost of internal flights so that people had a safe option if they needed to travel. This means that flying from city to city within Colombia is often the same price as that 10 hour bus you were resigned to taking.

Cheap no-frills airlines include Viva Colombia and EasyFly (make sure you check the baggage allowances!), with a level up in service and price expected from Latam Airlines . Avianca is also fantastic for the prices they offer.

For less popular routes that aren’t showing up on price comparison sites such as Flight Guru or Kiwi , make sure you check out the (absolutely terrible) websites of smaller airlines, such as Satena and San German . These guys run propeller planes to lesser visited parts of the country, such as Bahia Solano and Isla de Providencia . Their prices tend to be higher and the supply of seats is lower, so get in with booking quick!

9. NOW is the best time to visit Colombia

We first arrived in Colombia in April 2017, and last left in October 2019. During that 18 months, we can vouch for the fact that the level of tourism in the country has changed rapidly, and it’s no longer an off-the-beaten-track destination in Latin America.

While we’re crazy-proud of all that Colombia has achieved to move on from their brutal past and build a new reputation for themselves, we feel the huge influx of tourists has the potential to become unsustainable as the country becomes more and more mainstream during the next 3-5 years (even iPad-wielding OAPs in coaches have started feeling brave enough to switch their Caribbean cruise for a tour of Colombia).

Quaint little mountain towns such as Salento have already seen a tourism increase of over 300% in a year, and the vibe of the place now has those more experienced with Colombia looking elsewhere to towns like Filandia, or further out still as even that grows in popularity.

Luckily, there’s a huge amount to see here, and beauty in every corner – for its size, it’s probably one of the most multi-faceted countries we’ve ever been to – so we won’t run out of alternative off-beat towns in Colombia.

However, in order to see all the key highlights before things become too saturated, we couldn’t end our list of Colombia travel tips without saying get to Colombia ASAP . In a few years, we’d expect it to turn into somewhere that closer resembles Peru (not awful, but certainly not the same).

Now you’ve reached the end of the 9 things to know before you travel to Colombia, here are our most popular Colombia posts for you to have a gander of:

• Cost of living in Colombia

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Last Updated on 27 November 2023 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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