Culture & Traditions

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.