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2025/03/05
Miami(MIA) -
2025/03/15
Bogota
(Updated: December, 10, 2024 11:11)
Colombia Travel Tips and Information
| Official Name | Republic of Colombia |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 47 million |
| Capital | Bogotá |
| Country Code | CO |
| Language | Spanish |
| Country Code (international calls) | 57 |
The flight time to Colombia is approximately 3~4 hours. Check the climate, currency, religion, manners, other information of Colombia below. Wishing you pleasant travels to Colombia.
The Republic of Colombia is located in the northwest of South America, sharing borders with Brazil, Peru, Panama, Venezuela, and Ecuador. To the west, it faces the Atlantic Ocean, and to the north, it borders the Caribbean Sea.
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Visa and Immigration Procedures to Colombia
Passengers of 95 different countries, including the member states of European Union, USA, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates can stay in Colombia without a visa for a period of 90 days. Travelers from Cambodia, China, India, Myanmar, and Thailand are granted visa-free access to Colombia provided they are already holders of a visa for the USA or a Schengen country. Other visitors are obliged to apply for their visa to Colombia at any of the Columbian consulates worldwide. A return ticket or an onward ticket are prerequisites for the visa to Colombia.
Colombia - Local Climate / Weather
Climate Overview Colombia has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, though the weather can vary by region. Coastal areas experience warm temperatures year-round, while the Andean highlands, including Bogotá, have cooler temperatures. The dry season typically runs from December to March, while the rainy season is from April to November. Seasonal Travel Advice The best time to visit Colombia is during the dry season from December to March when outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and beach visits are most enjoyable. However, the rainy season offers lush landscapes, especially for nature enthusiasts looking to explore Colombia's rich biodiversity. Major Events and Festivals Colombia is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Carnival of Barranquilla (held in February or March), which is one of the largest and most important in the country. Other notable events include the Feria de las Flores in Medellín (August) and the Festival Vallenato in Valledupar (April), celebrating Colombian music and culture.
Colombia - Currency & Tipping
Currency
The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP), with coins and bills in various denominations. Commonly used bills are 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 pesos. Colombian Peso coins come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 pesos, with 1,000-peso coins being the highest in circulation. Banknotes range from 1,000 to 100,000 pesos, with larger denominations used for more significant transactions. Currency exchange can be done at airports, banks, or exchange bureaus, with exchange rates fluctuating depending on the market. Many businesses in Colombia also accept U.S. dollars, but it's advisable to use Colombian Pesos for better rates.
Tipping
Tipping in Colombia is common in restaurants, with a gratuity of 10% often included in the bill; however, additional tips are appreciated for good service. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, a small tip of 1,000 to 5,000 pesos is customary depending on the level of service.
Useful Travel Information
Colombia - Voltage & Electrical Outlets
Colombia uses a voltage of 110V with a frequency of 60Hz, which is the same as in the United States. The plug type is A or B, with two flat parallel prongs, so travelers from other regions may need a plug adapter. Most modern hotels and accommodations offer outlets compatible with international devices, but it’s advisable to bring a universal adapter just in case.
Colombia - Internet Connectivity
Colombia has a relatively well-developed internet infrastructure, especially in major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Free Wi-Fi is commonly available in hotels, cafes, and public areas, though the quality and speed can vary in rural areas. Mobile data coverage is widespread, with local SIM cards offering affordable data plans for travelers.
Colombia - Water for Consumption (Drinking Water)
Tap water in most major cities and tourist areas in Colombia is generally considered safe to drink, but it's advisable to ask locals or check for confirmation. In more remote or rural areas, bottled water is recommended to avoid any potential waterborne illnesses. Many restaurants will serve bottled or filtered water, and it's also available in most convenience stores.
Culture, Religion & Social Etiquette
Colombia - Culture
Colombian culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, reflected in its music, dance, and festivals. Colombians value family and community, and personal relationships are important in both social and business settings.
Colombia - Religion
The majority of Colombians are Roman Catholic, with a strong influence of Catholic traditions in daily life and national holidays. Protestantism and other religions are also present, and religious celebrations like Semana Santa (Holy Week) are significant.
Colombia - Social Etiquette
Colombians are known for their politeness, with a handshake being the common greeting among strangers, and a hug or kiss on the cheek among friends. It’s important to show respect by addressing people using formal titles and being punctual, though a relaxed approach to time is common in social settings.
Colombia - Food Culture
Colombian cuisine is a rich blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African flavors, offering hearty dishes like arepas, bandeja paisa, and empanadas. Street food is an essential part of the culinary experience, with popular snacks such as arequipe (caramel spread) and papas criollas (fried potatoes) available throughout the country. For a true taste of Colombia, try visiting local favorites like Andres Carne de Res in Bogotá or La Paila de la Abuela in Cartagena for authentic dishes and a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Colombia - Major Tourist Attractions & UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Colombia - Major Tourist Attractions
Colombia - UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Colombia- Souvenirs
Colombia offers a variety of unique souvenirs, such as emerald jewelry, handwoven bags, and artisanal pottery, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Markets like Bogotá's La Candelaria and Cartagena's Bazurto Market are perfect places to shop for colorful Mochilas (traditional bags) and carved wooden figurines. For a truly authentic experience, travelers can also pick up coffee from Colombia's famous Coffee Triangle, which makes for a flavorful gift.
Things/Items Allowed into Colombia
Things/Items Forbidden out of Colombia
Things/Items Forbidden into Colombia
Voice of Travelers to Colombia
Transiting in Colombia with an onward ticket
I traveled on an onward ticket from Atlanta through Colombia to Brazil. The ticket was purchased with Delta Airlines. This onward ticket was expensive, but I really wanted to see Colombia on my way to Brazil, so I bought this ticket instead of a regular direct ticket to Sao Paolo. Delta Airlines offered great service and good food was included in the price of the airfare ticket onboard. I loved Colombia! I spent most of my three days in Colombia's capital. With a direct ticket to Brazil, this would not have been possible. Colombia has a great culture. I am not disappointed that I didn't buy a direct ticket to Sao Paolo because with such a ticket I would have missed discovering Colombia.
Return ticket to Colombia aboard LATAM Colombia
I took a short trip to Colombia from Bolivia last year. I booked a ticket online through a ticket portal. It was a return ticket Bolivia-Colombia-Bolivia with LATAM Colombia Airlines. I really liked the optional service of an SMS reminder for the flight time, which was included in the air ticket. The flight to Colombia was indeed delayed for five hours and LATAM Colombia notified me ahead of time which allowed me to wait at home instead of at the airport. Once I boarded the plane to Colombia, I saw that the interior of the plane was not updated and virtually no food was offered. It was quite a cheap ticket, so I didn't mind.
Colombia Travel FAQs
What is the safety situation in Colombia? What should I be cautious about?
Colombia is one of the more dangerous countries in South America, and its risk level is high globally. If you are not careful, you may become involved in crime, so it’s important to exercise extra caution during your stay.
What is the best season to visit Colombia?
The best time to visit Colombia is during the dry season, which runs from July to September and December to March. The rest of the year is the rainy season.
Which airport is the most popular when flying to Colombia?
The most popular airport in Colombia is El Dorado International Airport in the capital city, Bogotá. It is known as one of the leading airports in Latin America.
Is English spoken in Colombia?
While English is not widely spoken in Colombia, it is more likely to be understood in tourist areas where international visitors are common.
Colombia - Direct Flights to Major Airports
Airports handling direct flights toEl Dorado International Airport・Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport ・Charles de Gaulle Airport (Paris) ・Miami International Airport
Airports handling direct flights toJosé María Córdova International Airport・Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport ・John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York) ・Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima)
Flight Routes to Colombia
There are direct flights to Colombia from both the American and European continents. Flights from Germany, Spain, France, and the Netherlands are operated on a regular basis. Colombia operates several of its own airlines, including Copa Airlines Colombia and LATAM Colombia which offer both international and domestic flights.