Traveling to Colombia offers a vibrant tapestry of culture, nature, and history. Here are practical travel tips to help you navigate this fascinating country with ease.
Visa and Passport: For British, EU, USA, Canada and Australia passport holders, Colombia allows visa-free entry for 180 days for tourism purposes. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Colombia. For other countries, please check the latest entry requirements from your government’s travel advisory or the Colombian consulate. Always carry a copy of your passport and immigration form while exploring.
Minors: Children under 18 traveling alone, with one parent, or with someone other than their parents, may need additional documentation. This could include a notarized letter of permission from the absent parent(s). Carrying a copy of the birth certificate is advisable.
Time Zone: UTC/GMT -5: COT (Colombia Time)
Connectivity: +57 Wi-Fi available
Electricity: Bring an adapter for Type A and Type B power sockets
Money: The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, as not all places accept credit cards. Use ATMs inside banks for added security, and inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards.
Language and Communication: Spanish is the official language in Colombia. While learning basic phrases can be helpful, you’ll find that English is commonly understood in major cities and tourist areas. Consider downloading a translation app to assist with communication.
Hello, how are you?: Hola, ¿cómo estás?
Good morning!: ¡Buenos días!
Good afternoon!: ¡Buenas tardes!
Good evening/night!: ¡Buenas noches!
What is your name?: ¿Cómo te llamas?
My name is…: Me llamo…
Please: Por favor.
Thank you: Gracias.
You’re welcome: De nada.
Great!: ¡Qué bien!
Can you help me?: ¿Me puedes ayudar?
I am lost: Estoy perdido/a. (use “perdido” if you’re male and “perdida” if you’re female)
I don’t understand: No entiendo.
Can you speak slowly, please?: ¿Puedes hablar más despacio, por favor?
How much does this cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?
Having these phrases at your disposal can significantly improve your interaction with locals, making your journey through Colombia more enriching and enjoyable.
Accommodation: Colombia offers a broad spectrum of accommodations, catering to every preference and budget. From luxury resorts in the Caribbean to boutique hotels in the heart of Bogota, charming haciendas in colonial towns, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.
Check-in and check-out times can vary, but typically, rooms are available by 3 pm, and check-out is usually by noon. It’s always a good idea to confirm these times with your accommodation in advance.
Getting Around:
By Air: Colombia’s size and varied geography make air travel an efficient way to cover large distances quickly. Major airlines connect a network of airports across the country, from large international hubs in Bogota (BOG) and Cartagena (CTG) to smaller regional airports. Direct flights often connect major tourist destinations, making air travel convenient for visitors.
By Bus: Colombia boasts an extensive and reliable long-distance bus network that connects virtually all corners of the country. Buses range from basic to luxury services, with higher-end buses offering amenities like wi-fi, reclining seats, and onboard entertainment. Bus travel is a popular and affordable option for both locals and visitors alike, providing a great way to see the country’s diverse landscapes.
Trains: Colombia has a limited passenger train service.
Boats and Ferries: Boats and ferries are essential for reaching remote areas, particularly in the Amazon and Pacific Coast regions, where road access may be limited. Several of Colombia’s islands are reachable by boat, offering unique travel experiences. From Cartagena, visitors can take boats to the Rosario Islands and Isla Barú. These boat trips provide scenic views and access to beautiful beaches and clear waters. From San Andrés, it is possible to travel to Providencia, another stunning island known for its vibrant marine life and tranquil environment. These boat journeys are an excellent way to explore Colombia’s coastal and island destinations.
Health & Hygiene: Colombia provides health services to foreigners, but it’s essential to have travel health insurance to cover medical treatments and emergencies. For urgent care, Colombia’s nationwide emergency number is 123. While public hospitals offer services at lower costs, private hospitals tend to have shorter wait times and staff who are more likely to speak English.
Hydration and Sun Protection: Given Colombia’s varied climate, staying hydrated is crucial, especially in hot and arid regions or when exploring coastal areas. Always opt for bottled water, as tap water is not consistently safe to drink across the country. Protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, particularly during peak sun hours from 10 am to 4 pm.
Insect Protection: In tropical and forested areas, insect repellent is essential to protect against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Wearing long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk can provide additional protection.
Food Safety: Exercise caution with street food or in areas with questionable hygiene. Opt for food that is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Avoid unpeeled fruits and vegetables that you haven’t washed yourself. Consuming poorly prepared seafood can lead to foodborne illnesses, especially in warmer months. Additional good read in regards to Food Safety while traveling.
Personal Hygiene: Regular hand washing with soap is advised, especially after using public transportation or visiting crowded places. Carrying hand sanitizer is a good practice for situations where soap and water aren’t available.
Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Colombia for most travelers, but it’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella, and polio. Vaccination against Hepatitis A and Typhoid is advised due to the risk of these diseases through contaminated food or water. While not required, the CDC recommends vaccination against Hepatitis B and Rabies for certain types of travel.
Altitude Sickness: If you’re planning to visit high-altitude areas, like Andes, be aware of altitude sickness. Acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medication if prone to altitude sickness.
Travel Health Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation. Check the terms and conditions, particularly if you plan to engage in adventure sports.
Security: Staying vigilant, especially in larger cities, is essential for a safe trip.
Airport Arrival: Opt for official taxi services or pre-arranged airport transfers to your accommodation. Avoid unofficial cabs to reduce risks of scams or overcharging.
Handling Cash and Valuables: Be discreet with cash and avoid displaying large amounts in public. Keep wallets and phones in secure, front pockets or a travel pouch, not in the back pockets of your pants.
Carrying Belongings: Carry only necessary cash in local currency and a credit card for daily expenses. Consider using a money belt or a neck pouch worn under your clothing for additional security.
Important Documents: Leave your passport and other valuable items in a hotel safe, carrying only a photocopy of your passport for identification.
Staying Alert in Crowds: Be extra cautious in crowded places, such as markets, public transportation, and tourist sites, where pickpocketing and theft are more likely.
Local Guidance: Heed advice from locals and your accommodation on areas to avoid, especially after dark or if traveling alone.
Beach Safety: When visiting beaches, don’t leave belongings unattended. Consider using waterproof pouches for valuables if you’re going into the water.
Vehicle Security: If renting a car, keep luggage and personal items out of sight and park in secure, well-lit areas.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants, usually around 10%. It’s also appreciated to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers for good service. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so check before tipping additionally.
What to Bring:
Sustainability: Embracing sustainable tourism practices enriches your travel experience and supports local communities. We prioritize partnerships with local businesses and employ local guides to deepen your understanding of Colombia’s cultural diversity while contributing to the local economy. We encourage respectful engagement with Colombia’s varied cultural and natural landscapes, promoting conservation and cultural appreciation.
Supporting Local Communities: Contributing positively to the communities you visit adds value to your travel experience and supports local development. Instead of giving money or sweets to children, consider donating educational supplies, sports equipment, or other items that benefit the community in sustainable ways. This approach fosters goodwill and supports the future growth of the places you visit.
