Insider Travel Tips

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.