Everything you need to know before visiting Colombia in 2024
Medellín, Colombia
Colombia Travel Details 🇨🇴
Colombia, with a population of approximately 50 million, is a vibrant and diverse destination in South America known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historic cities. Bogotá, the capital, is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and colonial architecture. Medellín, once notorious for its drug cartels, has transformed into a modern, innovative city known for its pleasant climate and significant cultural contributions. Cartagena, a coastal gem, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial buildings and Caribbean beaches. The country's coffee region offers picturesque landscapes and a chance to explore traditional coffee farms. The official language is Spanish, though English can be found in tourist areas.
Country
Colombia 🇨🇴
Capital
Bogotá
Country code
CO
Region
Americas (South America)
Population
~50,000,000 people
Calling code
+57
Currencies
Colombian Peso ($)
Timezones
UTC-05:00
Check if need a visa to visit Colombia
Essential Details to Know Before Visiting Colombia in 2024
Electrical Plugs
Colombia uses Type A and Type B plugs with a standard voltage of 110 V and a frequency of 60 Hz.
Languages
The official language of Colombia is Spanish. English is spoken in tourist areas and major cities.
Currency
The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP).
Payment Methods
Major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more common.
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. Most accept international cards.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is customary in Colombia. In restaurants, 10% is often included in the bill, but an additional tip for good service is appreciated.
Internet Connectivity
Colombia has good internet coverage, especially in urban areas, with an average speed of 25-30 Mbps.
Telecom Providers
Major telecom companies include Claro, Movistar, and Tigo.
International Calling
The international calling code for Colombia is +57.
SIM Cards for Travelers
SIM cards for travelers are readily available at airports and convenience stores. Popular providers include Claro and Movistar.
Emergency Dial Codes
In case of emergency, dial 123 for medical assistance, fire department, or police.
Colombia Visa
A Colombia visa is a document that allows foreign nationals to enter, stay, and work in Colombia for various purposes, such as tourism, business, study, or work. There are several types of visas available depending on the purpose of the visit. The most common types are the Tourist Visa (TP-11), the Visitor Visa (V), the Migrant Visa (M), and the Resident Visa (R). Each category has specific requirements and conditions. For example, the Tourist Visa allows stays of up to 90 days, while the Migrant Visa is for those who wish to live in Colombia longer-term. It is essential to check the visa requirements and apply before traveling, as requirements may change. Additionally, citizens of certain countries may be exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays.
The best time to visit Colombia largely depends on what you're hoping to experience. For most travelers, the dry season from December to March is ideal, as it offers pleasant weather for exploring cities, beaches, and national parks. However, if you're interested in the country's vibrant coffee regions or want to see the stunning blooms during the Festival of Flowers in Medellín, consider visiting between July and August.
How Much Time Should I Spend in Colombia?
To truly appreciate the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Colombia, plan to spend at least two to three weeks. This allows enough time to visit major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, as well as to explore smaller towns, coffee plantations, and coastal areas without feeling too rushed.
How Much Money Do I Need For Colombia?
The cost of a trip to Colombia can vary depending on your travel style, but generally, it’s considered an affordable destination. Budget travelers can manage with about $40-$50 per day, staying in hostels and eating at local eateries. For mid-range travelers, a daily budget of $70-$100 is more reasonable, allowing for more comfortable accommodations and dining options.
What Should I Pack For My Trip to Colombia?
When packing for Colombia, it's important to bring a mix of clothing to suit the diverse climates. Lightweight and breathable clothing is essential for the humid coastal areas, while warmer layers are needed for the cooler Andean regions. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a versatile daypack for all your adventures.
How to Stay Safe During Your Trip to Colombia
Colombia, with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is becoming a popular destination for tourists. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it’s important to stay informed about various safety and health considerations, legal norms, and local customs. Being prepared will enhance your travel experience, allowing you to soak in all that Colombia has to offer without unnecessary worries.
Health Tips and Rules
In Colombia, it’s crucial to take basic health precautions. This includes washing your hands regularly, drinking only bottled or purified water, and ensuring your vaccinations are up to date. Additionally, carry hand sanitizer and avoid street food if it looks unhygienic.
Navigating Colombia is definitely an adventure worth taking! With an extensive public transportation network, you’ll have no problem hopping from vibrant cities to serene beaches and lush jungles. Whether you're zooming through Bogota on a TransMilenio bus, enjoying scenic views from the Medellin metro, or taking a chiva in rural areas, Colombia makes it easy to travel around. Our travel guide covers all you need to know—from buses and taxis to regional flights and bike rentals—so you can explore this incredible country without any hitch.
TransMilenio (Bogota’s Bus Rapid Transit)
Bogota features one of the most efficient BRT systems in the world, known as TransMilenio. This system consists of dedicated bus lanes, making it faster compared to regular buses stuck in traffic. The buses are color-coded by route to help you navigate easily. You can purchase a TransMilenio card at most stations and recharge it as you go.
Medellin Metro
Medellin’s metro system is the crown jewel of the city’s public transportation. It's the only metro system in Colombia and includes both trains and cable cars, known as Metrocable. These cable cars provide a convenient and scenic way to reach hillside neighborhoods. You can get a card from any station and load it with a few rides to start exploring.
Chiva Buses
For a taste of local culture, try riding a chiva bus. These colorful, rustic buses are usually used in rural areas and by tourists. While they may not be the fastest mode of transport, they offer a fun and unique experience. Chiva tours are particularly popular in cities like Cartagena and Medellin, often accompanied by live music.
Domestic Flights
Colombia is a large country, and sometimes the fastest way to travel between cities is by air. Domestic flights are relatively affordable, and major airlines like Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air provide extensive coverage. Booking in advance can help you snag better deals, and most large cities have well-connected airports.
Taxi Services
Taxis are a convenient way to get around Colombian cities. Always make sure the taxi's meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand to avoid being overcharged. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Uber, Didi, and Cabify are widely used and are generally safer and more reliable.
Biking
If you're in Bogota on a Sunday, you can't miss 'Ciclovía'. Every week, numerous streets are closed to cars and taken over by bikers, skaters, and pedestrians. Many cities also have bike-sharing programs and dedicated bike lanes, making it an eco-friendly option to see the sights.
Ferries and Boats
Colombia’s waterways offer another unique way to travel, particularly along the Amazon River and the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Regular ferry services connect various points, while guided boat tours are great for exploring less accessible areas like Isla de Providencia or the Rosario Islands.
