Colombia Vacations

Colombian culture is as diverse and vibrant as the country's famed biodiversity. Rooted in a blend of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, it presents a colourful tapestry that captivates all senses. Colombian art tells a story of resistance, beauty, and passion. Artists like Fernando Botero and Omar Rayo have placed Colombian art on the global map, their works mirroring the nation's history and spirit. Colombia's culture is a living canvas, constantly evolving while maintaining respect for tradition. It welcomes visitors with open arms, offering experiences that resonate with warmth, resilience, and the joy of life.

What is the visiting etiquette in Colombia?

It’s common for Colombians to invite international travellers to join them for a drink or a meal at a restaurant. In most cases, you should expect to pay for your own food and drinks, though if your new friends insist on paying, it’s polite to let them. If a Colombian invites you to their home, you may want to bring a gift of flowers, rum, or soft drinks. Dinner is often at 8pm or later and it’s polite to arrive at least half an hour after the time you’re invited for.

What is Colombia best known for?

Many Colombian musicians have made it big on the global stage, including Shakira and Juanes. The heart of Colombian culture beats in its music and dance, especially with cumbia and vallenato originating from its Caribbean coast, while the graceful bambuco and joropo hail from the Andean regions. The salsa capital of the world, Cali, offers rhythmic beats that ensure Colombia is always pulsating with life.

The nation's literary soul is best captured by Nobel Laureate Gabriel García Márquez, whose magical realism paints Colombia's reality and myths with equal allure. Literature festivals and book fairs are celebrated with enthusiasm, reflecting a deep appreciation for storytelling.

After music and books, Colombia is known for its natural beauty. You can visit coasts on two oceans, mountains as high as 5,730 m (18,800 ft) and rainforests that cover 55% of the country. More than 300 types of ecosystems mean that this is one of the most biodiverse spots on the planet, where you can see many endemic species, especially birds.

What are some Colombian traditions?

Festivals such as the Carnival of Barranquilla showcase the nation's love for celebration, blending Catholic traditions with indigenous and African rituals. Religion, especially Roman Catholicism, plays a significant role in daily life, influencing social customs and community gatherings. Passion for sports, particularly football, runs deep. It is a source of national pride and a unifying force across different strata of society.

What are Colombian people like socially?

Colombians are warm and gregarious. They play music almost everywhere they go, from their homes to the beach and all through their towns. They may break into song at any point, singing along with the radio or the musicians on the corner. In rural areas Colombians tend to speak softly, though the volume is turned up in the big cities. After the difficulties Colombia experienced from the 1950s through the 1990s, many Colombians now live for the moment, enjoying their new peace and prosperity with joy.

What language(s) do Colombian people speak?

There are 70 languages spoken in Colombia: Spanish, 65 Indigenous languages, two Creole languages, Romani, and Colombian Sign Language. The most common language in Colombia is Spanish and it’s best to learn at least a few phrases before you go. In urban areas you’re likely to find a few people who speak English, but don’t rely on it. In remote areas of the mountains or rainforest you may meet people whose second language is Spanish and who primarily speak an Indigenous language. On the coast, you may meet Colombians who primarily speak a Creole language, though they will speak Spanish also.

Colombia welcomes travellers year-round with its diverse climates and vibrant festivities.

Sunny High Season (December - March): These months are perfect for city exploration, coffee region tours, birding, and beach relaxation. Key events include the Festival of Lights and the Hay Literary Festival in January. Plan ahead to ensure accommodations.

Rainy Season (April - June): Slightly wetter weather marks this period, with sporadic rain rather than constant downpours. Easter is a busy time, so book early.

Mini Dry Season (July - August): A dry spell makes this an excellent time to enjoy Colombia's cultural sites, countryside, and beaches. The Medellín Flower Festival in August is a highlight not to be missed.

Pleasant Low Season (September - November): Enjoy fewer crowds, more accommodation options, and events like Cartagena's Independence Day celebrations on November 11. The weather remains favourable for travel, allowing visitors to experience Colombia at a more relaxed pace.

When is the ideal time to visit Colombia?

With the seasonal variation explained above, July through August and the holiday season from late December through January are ideal times for a trip to Colombia.

When is Colombia's peak tourist season?

International tourism peaks throughout July and August, while national tourism is highest in December and January. February will have the fewest international tourists, though there are national holidays so expect some crowds.

Which is the most affordable time to visit Colombia?

Prices for hotels and excursions are the lowest during the rainy season and from October to November. Rain is often a strong downpour for an hour in the afternoon, so if you don’t mind planning a siesta indoors every day, you can enjoy Colombia on a smaller budget.

How long should I plan to visit Colombia?

If you can choose between the mountains and the coast, you can have a wonderful vacation in Colombia in just one week. However, if you want to enjoy Colombia’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems, it’s best to plan two weeks. Journeying into remote areas of the mountains or rainforest may take a couple of days each way, so research travel times carefully if going off the beaten path.

How to plan a trip to Colombia?

For an exciting Colombia vacation, you should consider what activities you most want to do. The country has a wealth of diverse geography, so you’ll need to first choose between the coast, the mountains and the cities, or decide on a combination. Your choice of beautiful beaches vs. jungle-covered mountains will completely change your activity options and packing list. Flights in Colombia are centralized, so you should expect to fly to Bogotá on your way to or from places in the country. For example, flying from Santa Marta on the Caribbean coast to Medellín in the mountains, you will probably have a layover in Bogotá.

How much does a trip to Colombia typically cost?

Colombia is one of the least expensive countries in South America. Travelling for one week costs about $1,000, without including international airfare. Simple or rustic hotels for $20-$50 a night are common and for $100 a night you can find a luxurious accommodation, though prices are higher in Bogotá. Day tours on a Colombia vacation typically cost around $50, depending on the activity.

Where to go on a Colombia vacation?

International flights typically arrive in Bogotá, so you’ll have to decide how much time to spend in the capital before setting off for the coast or the mountains. The Caribbean coast has warm water, a few cities and generally more development than the Pacific coast. If you want to see more wildlife and fewer people, choose the cooler waters of the less crowded Pacific. After Colombia’s beautiful beaches, the next most famous area is the Zona Cafetera, where some of the world’s best coffee is grown. Colombia’s delicious coffee grows in the mountains between the popular cities of Medellín and Cali.

Is it safe to travel to Colombia?

Colombia is safe for travellers, especially in the most popular tourist destinations. Headlines on peace accords and new hotel openings have replaced 1990s news clips of conflict. However, pickpockets are common in crowded areas. Travellers should keep a close eye on their belongings and be aware of their surroundings. Mountains and forests far from cities are less safe for international tourists as remote areas have very little police presence or assistance. Be cautious using dating apps in Colombia, as recently they have been used to target tourists for theft.

Is Colombia LGBTQ+ friendly?

Colombia has recently made great strides towards inclusion and equity for LGBTQ+ citizens and travellers. Marriage equality was legalized in 2016 and Colombians in the LGBTQ+ community are treated as equals throughout the country. Public displays of affection are only common in major cities and in beach resorts with lots of international travellers. When in rural villages, it’s best to keep a low profile.

Do I need a visa for Colombia?

Travellers from the US and Canada do not need a visa before arriving in Colombia. Many nationalities from around the world, including most European countries, receive a visa on arrival for 90 days. You will be asked to show your ticket departing Colombia either to board your flight to Colombia or when you pass through customs on arrival. Most nationalities may renew the visa to stay longer than 90 days, in which case you should make sure your departure flight is changeable or refundable.

What is the currency in Colombia?

Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP), which uses the same $ symbol as the dollar. Depending on the exchange rate, one US dollar is equivalent to around $4,000 pesos. However, it is an unstable currency and can fluctuate between $3,000 and $5,000 pesos per dollar within a few months. Most Colombians ignore the last three zeros, so don’t be surprised if they ask for 4 pesos, meaning 4,000.

Colombian cuisine is a feast of flavours. From the coastal corn arepas de huevo to the highland's ajiaco soup, each dish reflects the local traditions and ingredients. Fruit juices made from Amazonian fruits and the globally renowned Colombian coffee round out the culinary experience.

Here’s a curated guide to Colombian culinary delights that one must not miss.

Arepas: These cornmeal cakes are a staple of the Colombian diet and come with a variety of fillings such as cheese, eggs, or meat. Each region has its own twist on the arepa, making it a versatile treat to try across the country.

Bandeja Paisa: A hearty platter that represents Colombian cuisine, it features rice, beans, ground meat, chorizo, fried egg, arepa, and avocado. It’s a full meal designed to satisfy the hungriest of travellers.

Empanadas: These fried or baked pastries are filled with meat, potatoes, and spices. They are a perfect snack on the go and are found nearly everywhere, from street vendors to restaurants.

Ajiaco: A comforting, hearty soup that's especially popular in Bogotá. Made with chicken, three types of potatoes, and the Galinsoga parviflora herb, it’s served with capers, cream, and avocado on the side.

Fresh Fruit Juices: Colombia’s tropical climate yields a bounty of fruits like lulo, guanábana, maracuyá, and mangosteen. Juices made from these fruits are refreshing and a must-try, often sold by street vendors.

Café Colombiano: Colombia’s coffee is renowned worldwide. A visit to a coffee plantation to see the process from bean to cup is enlightening, and savouring a freshly brewed Colombian roast is essential.

Cocadas: These coconut candies are a sweet treat found in many coastal towns. They're often sold by beach vendors.

Aguardiente: This anise-flavoured liquor is Colombia’s national alcoholic drink. It’s typically consumed neat, in small shots, and is a staple at social gatherings.

Chocolate con Queso: A unique combination often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, it involves hot chocolate served with a chunk of cheese on the side. The cheese is dipped into the chocolate, creating a delightful fusion of flavours.

What is Colombia's traditional cuisine?

The most traditional meal is the filling bandeja paisa, mentioned above. However, each region has its own specialities. You’ll find an impressive array of seafood on the coast, always served with fresh limes. Small mountain communities rely on staples like potatoes and corn while lowland rainforest peoples eat unique Amazonian fruits you’ll only find in Colombia. Cities, especially Bogotá, have many immigrants from the Middle East, so expect Lebanese and Syrian restaurants to have exquisite delicacies equal to the best meals in their home countries.

What is the dining etiquette in Colombia?

Colombians spend a long time at the table, especially when they have gathered with friends and family. Take your time with your meal and then sit back to enjoy the conversation. At gourmet restaurants in cities, it’s common to tip 10%, though tipping is uncommon at family restaurants and in rural areas.

What is the drinking etiquette in Colombia?

The most traditional drink is aguardiente, followed by rum mixed with fruit juices or with soft drinks. If you’re offered a drink, it’s common to ask for fruit juice, with or without rum. In Bogotá, fine dining is often accompanied by wine from Chile or Argentina.

Does Colombia cater to dietary restrictions?

Travellers with gluten intolerances will have an easy time in rural areas, where corn and rice are more common than bread. However, vegetarians and vegans may have a harder time finding full meals at restaurants. Vegetarian options tend to be appetizers or side dishes. Tree nuts are common, and are often called frutos secos, so be sure to ask about your specific allergies at restaurants.

What do meals typically cost in Colombia?

Street food often costs around $1 USD and meals at informal restaurants cost $5-10. You should expect meals at a gourmet restaurant to cost $20-50, plus drinks.