Colombia Travel Guide
Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
Colombia has significantly improved its safety in recent years, especially in major tourist destinations. However, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching is common in crowded areas and on public transport. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid displaying valuables.
Colombian Peso (COP)
Type A and Type B (two flat parallel pins or two flat parallel pins with a round grounding pin). Voltage is 110-120V at 60Hz.
Tipping is appreciated but not strictly mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% service charge ('propina voluntaria') is often added to the bill; you can ask for it to be removed but it's customary to pay for good service. For taxi drivers, it's common to round up the fare. For hotel staff, a small tip (2,000-5,000 COP) is appropriate.
Claro, Tigo, and Movistar are the main mobile providers. SIM cards can be purchased at official stores in airports or major cities, requiring your passport for registration. Data packages are generally affordable and offer good coverage in urban areas.
Many nationalities, including citizens from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and Australia, can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days, extendable to 180 days within a calendar year. Always check the latest visa requirements based on your specific nationality before traveling.
Right
Major cities like Bogotá have extensive bus networks and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems (e.g., TransMilenio in Bogotá, Metroplús in Medellín). Medellín boasts a modern, integrated public transport system including a metro, metrocable, and tram, known for its efficiency. Buses are the primary mode of intercity travel, with various classes of service.
Uber, Didi, Cabify
Long-distance buses are a common and affordable way to travel between cities, with numerous companies operating comfortable coaches. For faster travel, domestic flights are widely available and connect major cities efficiently, with airlines such as Avianca, LATAM, Viva Air, and Wingo.
- • Greetings: Colombians are generally warm. A handshake is common for men, while women often greet with a kiss on the cheek (even with strangers).
- • Punctuality: Punctuality is generally more relaxed in social settings, but try to be on time for business appointments.
- • Personal Space: Personal space is often closer than in some Western cultures.
- • Formal vs. Informal: Use 'usted' (formal 'you') when addressing elders, people in positions of authority, or those you don't know well. 'Tú' (informal 'you') is for friends and family.
- • Hospitality: Colombians are very hospitable; accepting an invitation to someone's home is a great honor.
Casual attire is generally acceptable for daily activities. For evenings out in cities, people tend to dress more smartly. When visiting churches or formal establishments, modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated. In warmer regions, light, breathable clothing is common.
Colombia is predominantly Roman Catholic. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress respectfully, speak quietly, and be mindful of ongoing services. It's customary to remove hats inside churches.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Colombia, with a passionate following for national and club teams. — Football dominates the sports scene, with major cities having their own professional teams. Cycling is also incredibly popular, both as a recreational activity and a professional sport, producing many world-class riders. Tejo, a traditional Colombian sport involving throwing metal discs at a target with gunpowder, is a unique cultural experience.
February or March (before Ash Wednesday)
Barranquilla Carnival (Carnaval de Barranquilla)
One of the largest carnivals in the world and a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It's a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and folklore, featuring grand parades, colorful costumes, and street parties.
Early August
Flower Festival (Feria de las Flores)
Held in Medellín, this festival celebrates the region's flower industry. Its highlight is the 'Desfile de Silleteros,' where farmers carry elaborate flower arrangements ('silletas') on their backs, showcasing incredible artistry.
December 25-30
Cali Fair (Feria de Cali)
Known as the 'Salsa Capital of the World,' Cali hosts this electrifying festival featuring daily salsa concerts, dance performances, and parades. It's a must-visit for salsa lovers.
March or April (variable)
Holy Week (Semana Santa)
Observed nationwide with solemn religious processions and ceremonies, particularly renowned in Popayán (a UNESCO City of Gastronomy) and Mompox for their historical significance and elaborate rituals.