Located in the north of South America, Colombia is a captivating country that offers a wealth of reasons to visit. From its stunning landscapes and diverse nature to its vibrant culture, delicious gastronomy, and rich history, Colombia has something for every traveler.
Why Visit Colombia
LANDSCAPES & NATURE
Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Snow-capped mountains in The Andes mountain range, idyllic beaches in both Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, the Amazon rainforest (which covers 35% of its territory), deserts, and much more to impress your sight.
CULTURE & LOCALS
Colombia’s culture is a vibrant tapestry woven with indigenous traditions, African influences, and Spanish colonial heritage. The warmth and friendliness of the Colombian people make for a memorable cultural experience. Visitors can engage with locals, participate in traditional festivals such as the Carnaval de Barranquilla, learn traditional dances like cumbia and vallenato, and discover the country’s rich folklore and craftsmanship.
GASTRONOMY
Colombian gastronomy is a delight for food lovers. The country boasts a diverse culinary scene with regional specialties such as bandeja paisa, a hearty platter featuring grilled meats, beans, rice, and plantains. Coastal regions offer mouthwatering seafood dishes like ceviche and fried fish. Colombia is also famous for its coffee, considered some of the finest in the world.
ARCHITECTURE & HISTORY
Colombia’s history dates back a couple centuries, when the pre-columbian indigenous settled in the region. As the spanish and europeans came, they influenced the country greatly, building cities and leaving a heritage that can be seen nowadays on its churches, houses and some other colonial landmarks that can be found in cities like Bogota, Tunja and Cartagena.
Located in the north of South America, Colombia is a captivating country that offers a wealth of reasons to visit. From its stunning landscapes and diverse nature to its vibrant culture, delicious gastronomy, and rich history, Colombia has something for every traveler.
Why Visit Colombia
LANDSCAPES & NATURE
Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Snow-capped mountains in The Andes mountain range, idyllic beaches in both Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, the Amazon rainforest (which covers 35% of its territory), deserts, and much more to impress your sight.
CULTURE & LOCALS
Colombia’s culture is a vibrant tapestry woven with indigenous traditions, African influences, and Spanish colonial heritage. The warmth and friendliness of the Colombian people make for a memorable cultural experience. Visitors can engage with locals, participate in traditional festivals such as the Carnaval de Barranquilla, learn traditional dances like cumbia and vallenato, and discover the country’s rich folklore and craftsmanship.
GASTRONOMY
Colombian gastronomy is a delight for food lovers. The country boasts a diverse culinary scene with regional specialties such as bandeja paisa, a hearty platter featuring grilled meats, beans, rice, and plantains. Coastal regions offer mouthwatering seafood dishes like ceviche and fried fish. Colombia is also famous for its coffee, considered some of the finest in the world.
ARCHITECTURE & HISTORY
Colombia’s history dates back a couple centuries, when the pre-columbian indigenous settled in the region. As the spanish and europeans came, they influenced the country greatly, building cities and leaving a heritage that can be seen nowadays on its churches, houses and some other colonial landmarks that can be found in cities like Bogota, Tunja and Cartagena.
Bucket List
See where the desert meets the sea in La Guajira
Explore the streets of Cartagena
Ride through the Cocora Valley
Explore Bogotá
Go on a coffee tour in el Eje Cafetero
Spot some wildlife in Leticia
Hit the beach in Tayrona National Natural Park
Explore the Lost City
What to expect
LANGUAGE
Spanish is the official language in Colombia, however there also 65 amerindian languages spoken around the country. Having some knowledge of basic Spanish phrases can greatly enhance your experience, although English is spoken in tourist areas and larger cities.
ELECTRICITY
In Colombia the standard voltage is 110 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. That’s the standard voltage in the US, Canada and most South American countries.
CURRENCY
The Colombian peso is the official currency in Colombia. Foreign currencies, like dollars and euros, won’t be accepted, but credit cards are widely accepted, and you can exchange your money at any bank or withdraw directly from the ATM. 1 USD equals 4,486 pesos (as of 2023)
CLIMATE
The climate in Colombia is generally tropical, with an annual average temperatures usually above 74 °F (23 °C). However, Colombia’s climate varies due to its diverse geography and altitude. The coastal areas, including Cartagena and Santa Marta, have a hot and humid climate throughout the year. The Andean region, where cities like Bogotá and Medellín are located, has a more temperate climate with cooler temperatures due to the higher altitude. The Amazon rainforest region is characterized by high temperatures and high humidity.
SAFETY
Colombia was known as an unsafe country thanks to the narco-violence, however the government has made significant strides in terms of safety in recent years, with improved security conditions across the country. Although the country still has some rate of petty crime, the country is generally safe. Just like anywhere else, common sense and caution is encouraged. It is recommended to stay away from the areas where the guerrilla still has some presence and from some comunas if you are not going with locals.
How to get around
- Air Travel: Colombia has several domestic airports connecting major cities and tourist destinations. Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air are among the major airlines that operate domestic flights. Flying is a time-saving option for covering long distances, especially when traveling between different regions of the country.
- Buses: Buses are the most common mode of transportation in Colombia, offering an extensive network that connects cities, towns, and rural areas. There are various types of buses available, ranging from luxury coaches to smaller minivans called “collectivos.” Major bus companies such as Bolivariano, Brasilia, and Expreso Brasilia provide comfortable and reliable services.
- Metro: The city of Medellín has an efficient metro system, including a metro train and cable cars. The metro connects various neighborhoods and offers a convenient way to explore the city. Additionally, Bogotá has an extensive TransMilenio bus system, which operates on dedicated lanes, providing a rapid and efficient means of transportation within the capital.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in cities and towns throughout Colombia. Official taxis can be identified by their yellow color and a visible taxi sign on the roof. It’s advisable to use registered taxis and ask the driver to use the meter or agree on a fare before starting the journey. Ride-hailing services like Uber and DiDi are also available in major cities.
- Rental Cars: Renting a car can be a great option for exploring Colombia, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or enjoy the flexibility of a self-drive adventure. Major international car rental companies have offices at airports and in major cities. However, it’s important to note that traffic conditions can be challenging in some cities, and road conditions in rural areas may vary.
- Domestic Ferries: Colombia’s extensive coastline and river systems offer opportunities for domestic ferry travel. For example, in the Caribbean region, ferries operate between Cartagena and the Rosario Islands or Barú Peninsula. Additionally, in the Amazon region, river transport is commonly used for accessing remote areas.
- Domestic Flights: For reaching more remote destinations, such as the San Andrés and Providencia Islands or the Amazon Rainforest, domestic flights are often the most practical option. Several airlines provide domestic flights to these regions.
Visa Policy & Pasports
Colombia has a well-defined visa policy for tourists, with specific requirements varying based on the visitor’s nationality. Here is a detailed description of the visa policy in Colombia:
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of several countries can enter Colombia without a visa for tourism purposes. These countries include the United States, Canada, Australia, most European Union member states, and many South American countries. Visitors from these countries are typically granted a visa-free stay for up to 90 days.
- Tourist Visa: Citizens of countries not included in the visa-exempt list must apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Colombia. The application process typically involves providing a completed application form, a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of travel itinerary, proof of financial means, and a return ticket. The specific requirements may vary depending on the country and consulate.
- Reciprocity Fee: Some countries require Colombian citizens to pay a reciprocity fee, and in return, Colombia charges citizens of those countries a similar fee. The amount and countries affected can change, so it’s essential to check the latest information from the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the consulate of your home country.
- Temporary Visitor Visa: For those who wish to stay in Colombia for longer than the visa-free period, a temporary visitor visa can be obtained. This visa allows for a stay of up to 180 days, which can be extended for an additional 180 days at the immigration office in Colombia. The application process requires additional documentation, including proof of purpose of visit, financial stability, and medical insurance coverage.
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