Colombia Travel FAQs

Colombia has made significant progress in terms of safety and security in recent years. While some areas may still have safety concerns, the majority of popular tourist destinations are considered safe for travelers. It’s our policy to stay informed about the current safety situation in our destinations and follow local advice and guidelines for all of our travelers.

Colombia offers a wide range of unique destinations. Some popular must-visit places include Bogotá (the capital city), Cartagena (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Medellín (known for its vibrant culture and innovation), the Coffee Region (famous for its coffee farms, unique culture and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Tayrona National Natural Park (with some of the best beaches in South America), and the Lost City (ancient ruins older than Machu Picchu).

Colombia’s climate varies depending on the region and by altitude. Generally, the country experiences a tropical climate near the coast, while the interior regions have a more moderate to colder climates. We’ll inform you about specific weather conditions for the regions on our itineraries so you know what to pack.

Colombia has a visa exemption policy for many countries, allowing visitors to enter for tourism purposes without a visa for a up to 90 days. The duration of stay varies depending on the country of citizenship. It’s advisable to check with the Colombian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific visa requirements.

The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, hotels, and tourist areas. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.

Colombia has a well-developed transportation network. Domestic flights are available between major cities. Buses are the most common mode of transportation and connect various destinations across the country. In cities, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. All of our itineraries include private ground transportation and domestic flights.

No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Colombia. The Colombian Ministry of Health is advising travelers visiting low elevation destinations to vaccinate for Yellow Fever. Yellow Fever vaccines are free in Colombia, but must be administered at least 10 days prior to possible exposure.

While knowing some basic Spanish can be helpful, especially in more rural areas where English proficiency may be limited, many people in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants can communicate in English. Having a pocket-sized Spanish phrasebook or translation app can also be beneficial. Also, learning some Colombian Slang can be helpful.

Colombian cuisine offers a diverse range of dishes. Some popular Colombian foods include arepas (cornmeal patties), bandeja paisa (a hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, avocados, eggs, bacon and sausage), empanadas (stuffed pastries), and sancocho (a traditional soup). Don’t miss trying Colombian coffee, which is renowned worldwide.

The cost of a trip to Colombia can vary depending on factors such as type of accommodation, transportation, activities, and duration of stay. As a general guideline, a traveler on one of our itineraries can expect to spend around $250 to $350+ per person, per day. Our itineraries include 4 and 5 star accommodations, private transportation, guided and self-guided activities.