travel guide to colombia

Colombia Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Colombia is fast becoming the travel highlight of South America. After decades of struggling with crime and cartels, Colombia has become a hub for digital nomads and budget backpackers. More and more people are visiting to soak up the sun and enjoy the country’s low cost of living.

I loved my time in the country. I had falsely assumed that six weeks would be enough to get a good sense of Colombia. After all, six weeks is a fair amount of time to spend anywhere.

But I was wrong. Given its size and the sheer number of activities, it was barely enough to scratch the surface. (Though I did manage to see a lot more than I thought I would!)

From unbelievable scenery and lush jungles (Colombia is home to 10% of the world’s biodiversity), beautiful beaches, incredible street are, stunning architecture, salsa dancing, delicious food and cutting edge culinary trends, the ancient sites of Tierradentro and San Agustín, hip cities like Medellín and Bogotá, Colombia is a travel paradise

I had such high expectations based on what I heard from other travelers, but the country lived up to all the hype. I wish I had more time there, but I’ll just have to go back!

This comprehensive Colombia travel guide gives you all the tips and tricks you need to plan your dream trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Colombia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Colombia

1. Get lost in Bogotá

Bogotá is Colombia’s vibrant capital. The historic downtown, La Candelaria, is filled with bright colonial buildings, museums, restaurants, bars, churches, and centuries-old houses. The foodie scene in the city is incredible, with a lot of international options and cutting-edge gastronomy.

2. Explore Tierradentro National Park

Located in southwestern Colombia, Tierradentro is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America. It contains over 100 underground tombs dating from the 10th century BCE that are the only examples of their kind in the Americas. It takes a day or two to hike all the paths around the tombs.

3. Walk the Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is home to Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm, which grows nearly 200 feet tall. This area also has one of the most popular day hikes in the country. You’ll cross jungle rivers, visit a bird sanctuary, and enjoy some stellar views and forest scenery. The route takes about five hours to hike.

4. Fall in love with Medellín

Medellín is one of the fastest-growing cities in Colombia. It has enough activities and things to do to fill weeks on end: microbreweries, museums, walking tours, spacious parks, street art, food tours and markets, incredible nightlife, and more. I loved it so much I spent a few weeks here.

5. Trek to the Lost City

The Lost City was built around 800 CE and contains 169 terraces carved into the mountains. It’s one of the most beautiful treks in the country, and the site is older than Machu Picchu! To visit, you need to hire a tour operator (you can’t do it by yourself). Treks last 4-6 days and cost 1,150,000 COP.

Other Things to See and Do in Colombia

1. journey to isla gorgona.

Once a prison island, Isla Gorgona is now part of a national park that lies 48 kilometers (30 miles) off the Pacific coast just southwest of Cali . You’ll see snakes, bats, monkeys, and sloths and the boat journey over also offers some chances to see humpback whales, sharks, and giant sea turtles. The remains of the prison can be seen too. Admission to the park is 51,000 COP per person.

2. Visit San Agustín

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Agustín is a small mountain town in the southwest that’s home to hundreds of pre-Columbian statues and burial mounds. Its collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures is the largest in Latin America. You need at least one full day (two to see it all in-depth). Admission to the park is 25,000 COP per person.

3. Journey into the Amazon

The Amazon basin covers almost one-third of Colombia and is the perfect place to experience the jungle. Leticia is a town bordering Peru and Brazil and is considered the jumping-off point for jungle excursions and visiting the indigenous villages on the Amazon River. The regions of Guaviare, Putumayo, and Caqueta are also popular for birding, waterfall hikes, and white-water rafting trips. For trekking, most tours involve taking a boat up the river from Leticia and a stop off with an indigenous tribe before arriving at Amacayacu National Park to begin your trek. Prices vary depending on the duration of your trip but expect to pay at least 150,000 COP.

4. Go diving

Colombia is home to some excellent dive sites. The tropical waters around San Andrés and Providencia (both of which are just off the coast of Nicaragua) are home to all kinds of fish and coral species. Tayrona National Park is an ideal place to go if you’re interested in getting up close to some sunken ships, while Gorgona Island is another hotspot for marine life. Humpback whales are common around Gorgona Island between August and October, and it’s also the only place in Colombia to see whale sharks. Expect to pay around 200,000-300,000 COP for a two-tank dive.

5. Learn about coffee

Colombia is home to some of the world’s best coffee, and a tour of a plantation is the best way to find out how your morning brew gets from farm to cup. Salento is the best base for doing coffee tours as it’s one of the oldest towns in the coffee-growing region. The Finca El Ocaso Salento plantation offers one of the most in-depth visits for learning about how the entire process works. Even if you’re not a coffee drinker (I’m not) it’s worth taking a tour to learn about this important industry. Tours start from 25,000 COP.

6. Take in the chaos of Cali

As Colombia’s third-largest city, Cali is the center of the sugar and coffee industry for the country, as well as being host to a terrific nightlife. The city is also the salsa capital of the world and there are tons of places to learn how to salsa dance here. Be sure to also relax in the famous Plaza de los Poetas (Square of the Poets), a park filled with life-like statues of local poets and visit the Iglesia de la Ermita (Ermita Church), one of the city’s most striking pieces of architecture thanks to its 20th-century Gothic design. Eat at the restaurants on Ave 9N in Granada, and try some chuleta valluna (a delicious Colombian dish of breaded and marinated fried pork cutlets).

7. Day trip to Popayán

Popayán rivals Cartagena as Colombia’s most impressive colonial town. It’s known as La Ciudad Blanca (The White City) because all the buildings are painted white. Popayán is also a college town (there are three universities here), and it has produced 17 presidents too. I really loved the slow pace of life and the surprisingly robust food scene here (eat at La Cosecha Parrillada, Restaurante Italiano y Pizzeria, La Fresa, and Mora de Castilla). While you don’t need a lot of time here (take the walking tour, climb the hill, see the churches, and you’re done), I do suggest staying longer to enjoy the slow pace of life. So much of Colombia is go-go-go; it’s nice to find a place that’s more “stay and relax awhile.”

8. Dance and party through Carnival

It may not be Rio de Janeiro, but Colombia has a great Carnival season. Although the Carnival in Barranquilla (which is the largest) takes place in February, Pasto and Manizales offer carnivals in the first week of January. The Carnaval de Blanco y Negro in Manizales is a wild few days of revelry (make sure you bring old black and white clothes if you attend as you’re certain to get doused in flour, paint, and foam!).

9. Do some extreme sports in San Gil

San Gil, located 300 kilometers (186 miles) north of Bogotá, is considered the outdoors capital of the country. Extreme sports fans love it here. You can go white-water rafting, paragliding, caving, rappelling, jungle trekking, and more here. Prices vary but expect to pay around 80,000 COP for paragliding and closer to 200,000 COP for a white-water rafting trip.

10. Relax in Tayrona National Park

Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Tayrona boasts long stretches of golden beaches lined with coconut palms and a dense rainforest with lots of easy day hikes. I highly suggest you start early at the big entrance at El Zaino and exit the park through Calabazo. This underused route takes a whole day, and once you pass the Cabo San Juan campground, you get the last half of the trail to yourself. Tayrona is also home to over 20 dive sites, including shipwrecks and coral reefs, and two-tank dives are as little as 300,000 COP. For some beach time, head to picturesque Cabo San Juan. At the end of the sandy stretch of beach is a lookout point, topped with a hut of hammocks.

11. Head to the Providencia and San Andrés Islands

These islands, which are actually closer to Nicaragua than Colombia, are considered some of the most unspoiled places in the Caribbean. They have white-sand beaches, stunningly clear blue water, and few crowds (though, thanks to some recent press, Providencia is becoming a lot busier). Try to make it when tens of thousands of black crabs migrate to the sea, which happens twice a year for 1-2-weeks between April and July. It’s not always easy to nail the timing but the sight is truly something to see! As mentioned, the region is also perfect for diving.

12. Visit Guatapé

This pueblo is one of the most picturesque towns in Colombia and one of the most colorful in the world as most of the traditional homes have murals painted on the bottom half of their façades that depict animals, people, and shapes. Most people come to climb the steep (and difficult) staircase to the top of the monolithic Rock of Guatapé (La Piedra) for some of the best views in the country. Guatapé is a long day trip from Medellín (hostels in the city organize them throughout the week), so I recommend trying to spend at least a night here so you aren’t as rushed and can enjoy the area a little more.

13. Hike in Chingaza National Park

This is one of the biggest nature reserves in Colombia, home to more than 1,000 plant species and 187 bird species. Here you can learn about the Páramo ecosystem (an alpine tundra ecosystem) and how it affects the global water system. (Fun fact: Nearly 80% of Bogotá’s water supply comes from Chingaza.) If you’re going to hike, one of the best routes is the challenging hike to the summit of Lagunas de Siecha.

14. Hike in Minca

Minca is located in the foothills of the Sierra de Santa Marta Mountains. Once a sleepy backpacker town, it’s now a hot spot for tourists escaping the oppressive heat on the Caribbean coast who want to do some quiet hikes. One of the best hikes here is to Los Pinos, but it isn’t easy and takes 6-8 hours (though it’s worth the effort). Just make sure you bring lots of water and start early so you don’t get stuck in the dark.

15. Visit Cartagena

Cartagena is one of the most visited destinations in Colombia, thanks to a lot of direct flights and cruise ship visits. The city was founded by the Spanish in 1533 (though there were indigenous settlements in the area as far back as 4,000 BCE) It’s famed for its Old Town, a maze of cobbled alleys, flower-covered balconies, and large churches on spacious plazas. Despite the crowds (and there are a lot of crowds), I really enjoyed Cartagena. While there aren’t a lot of tourist activities (you can do most of them in a single day), what makes it a wonderful place to visit is just that: it’s somewhere you can slow down, relax, and gorge on the phenomenal food!

16. Take a free walking tour

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a new city is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the highlights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. All the major cities have free walking tours in English that provide a solid introduction to the country. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

  For information on specific destinations in Colombia, check out these guides:

• Bogotá Travel Guide
• Cali Travel Guide
• Cartagena Travel Guide
• Medellín Travel Guide
• Santa Marta Travel Guide

Colombia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Most hostel dorm rooms in Colombia cost 30,000-45,000 COP per night, though in some cities and towns you can find them as low 15,000 COP. Private hostel rooms cost around 40,000 COP, though during the high season and in major metropolitan areas, it can be double that or even more. Free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities are common, and many hostels also include breakfast.

Budget hotels in Colombia cost around 60,000 COP per night. On the coast and in the high season, however, most places are closer to around 120,000 COP. If you’re looking to stay at some of the really lovely boutique hotels the country has to offer, expect to pay around 650,000 COP or more a night.

Airbnb is available in the larger cities, with private rooms starting around 50,000 COP per night but going as high as 150,000 COP if you don’t book early. For an entire home or apartment, prices start at 150,000 COP but average closer to 280,000 COP.

There aren’t many campgrounds in Colombia, but hostels and guesthouses sometimes let you pitch a tent on their property. They charge you as much as a dorm bed though. Avoid wild camping here as it isn’t very safe.

Food – Colombian food is a blend of indigenous, Caribbean, and European traditions. While ingredients and popular dishes vary by region, common staples include maize, potato, cassava, rice, and all kinds of tropical fruit (dragon fruit, papaya, guava, passionfruit). Fried plantains, chicken soup, tamales, empanadas, meat pies, and roasted piglet are just some of the delicious popular dishes you’ll encounter.

A meal at a restaurant serving local food costs between 10,000-15,000 COP in the major cities and about 6,000-10,000 COP in the countryside. You can also find a lot of cheap food like empanadas for 2,500 COP (they make the best snack food). An arepa on the street is about 3,000-5,000 COP. Ceviche, which is popular throughout the country, costs around 15,000 COP.

Most Western restaurants cost 20,000-30,000 COP for a main dish. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay 15,000-20,000 COP for a combo meal.

Beer at the bar can be found for as little as 4,000 COP but you’re likely to pay double at a backpacker bar. Cocktails, which are becoming really popular here, cost around 20,000 COP.

Grocery shopping is very cheap, costing about 80,000-100,000 COP per week for staples like rice, beans, produce, and some meat or seafood. Most hostels have kitchens so you can make yourself breakfast and sandwiches to lower your food costs.

Backpacking Colombia Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Colombia, my suggested budget is 115,000 COP per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking some meals and eating cheap street food, taking public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free or cheap activities like free walking tours and enjoying nature.

On a mid-range budget of 235,000 COP per day, you can stay in a budget hotel or private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take some guided tours, take a couple of cheap domestic flights, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and taking a food tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 500,000 COP per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more domestic flights, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in COP.

Colombia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Colombia is generally an inexpensive destination to visit. Accommodation is cheap unless you are staying at major hotel chains. There are a ton of markets with cheap food, local attractions are affordable, and buses are cheap. But if you want to save even more, here are some extra ways to save money in Colombia:

• Eat like the locals – It’s easy to eat on a budget here if you stick to local Colombian food. Street food is super cheap, allowing you to fill up on a budget. Skip the fancy restaurants and Western food.
• Avoid drinking cocktails – Colombia has a lot of awesome cocktail bars now — especially in Medellín — but these drinks are expensive, usually costing around 20,000 COP (sometimes up to 30,000 COP). If you’re on a budget, skip the cocktails and stick to beer.
• Cook your food – While local food is really cheap, you can also save some money by grocery shopping. It’s not as glamorous but shopping for some of your meals will help you cut costs so you can afford to eat out more here and there.
• Avoid the hostels on the Caribbean coast – The hostels on the Caribbean coast were pretty lackluster. They were expensive and didn’t have great facilities, especially the bigger “resort” ones in beachside towns like Palomino. Instead, you can find comparatively cheap budget hotels on Booking.com for less than a private room in a hostel (and only slightly more than a dorm bed).
• Avoid “Gringolands” – Everything where the gringos cluster are is going to be double its normal price. Avoid staying in areas with lots of tourists and expats (like Poblado in Medellín, Cartagena’s Old Town, or Park 93 in Bogotá) since you’ll end up paying more for everything.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who not only give you a free place to stay but can share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to save money and connect with a local.
• Fly Viva Air – If you’re planning to fly around Colombia, the best deals are on Viva Air. It has the cheapest fares in the country (though it flies to the fewest places). It’s best to book a few weeks in advance. (LATAM and Avianca, the two major carriers, also have deals sometimes so check their websites too.)
• Use miles and points – Get to Colombia by using your miles to fly Avianca (which is part of Star Alliance). There are also a lot of hotel chains in Colombia where you can use points too. If you have miles and/or points, you can burn through a lot of them in Colombia — and the redemption rates are excellent! And if you want to learn how to start earning miles for free travel, this post can show you how to get started!
• Avoid the airline surcharge – Non-Colombians are charged higher airfare prices than locals. If you look at the non-local version of the website, you won’t see the super saver cheap fares. To get around this, load up the local Spanish versions of an airlines’ website. Then use your browser extension to translate the pages and book away! This gives you the lower, Colombian prices, and no one will challenge you at check-in about your fare.
• Take Uber – Uber is the cheapest way to get around Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín. That said, Uber is actually illegal so don’t sit in the back seat or you might get stopped. I also like to tip the Uber drivers here, since the fares are so cheap and they are taking a risk. But all the drivers I met did this out of necessity — they couldn’t pay their bills if it weren’t for Uber.
• Haggle with taxi drivers – There are no meters in Colombia. While prices from the airports are regulated and non-negotiable, everything else is just a matter of your bargaining skills. If you’re going to take taxis, haggle before you get in the car.
• Take free walking tours – Most major and medium-sized cities in Colombia have free walking tours. They are a good way to see the city on a budget and connect with a guide who can answer all your questions. My favorites include Free Walking Tour Cartagena, Free Walking Tour Bogotá, and Real City Tours Medellín.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a water bottle with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Colombia

Looking for a budget-friendly place to stay? Here are some of my favorite accommodations in Colombia:

• Media Luna (Cartagena)
• Republica Hostel Cartagena (Cartagena)
• Los Patios Hostel Boutique (Medellín)
• Hostel Rango Boutique
• Sugar Cane Hostel (Medellín)
• Selina (Bogotá)
• The Cranky Croc Hostel (Bogotá)
• La Brisa Loca (Santa Marta)
• Dreamer Santa Marta (Santa Marta)
• Hostel Masaya Santa Marta (Santa Marta)
• Viajero Cali Hostel & Salsa School (Cali)
• Oasis Cali Hostel (Cali)

How to Get Around Colombia

Public Transportation – Local transportation is cheap here. The metro in Medellín is only around 2,500 COP for a one-way fare. Local buses are the most common type of transportation in towns and cities. The fare is usually between 1,000-2,500 COP.

Colectivo – A colectivo in Colombia is a minibus, a shared taxi, or a large Jeep (and really, anything else that gets you around). These are run by private owners and are used mostly for short journeys between towns. You have to negotiate the price ahead of time. Since they’re faster and more direct than regular buses, they’re also more expensive.

It’s very common for travelers to use a colectivo . Drivers usually yell out destinations as they pass on the streets, or they approach you to see if you’re going their way.

Bus – Intercity buses are the most common way to get around Colombia. A bus from Bogotá to Medellín costs around 52,500 and takes around 9 hours while a bus to Quito, Ecuador from Bogotá costs around 181,000 COP and takes over 24 hours. Medellín to Manizales is 31,000 COP and Salento to Cali is 59,000 COP. On average, expect to spend 20,000-40,000 COP for a bus.

Companies like Expreso Palmira and Expreso Trejos are reliable companies, and they make it easy to research schedules and fares on their websites.

Flying – Budget airlines are often cheaper than buses in Colombia, so make sure to search for flights to compare prices. Viva has the cheapest flights (though they also have strict luggage restrictions). A flight from Bogotá to Medellín, for example, can be found for as little as 55,000 COP! Book early to find the best deals.

Train – There are no trains in Colombia.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for as little as 90,000 COP per day, though you don’t need one to get around the cities. Additionally, since break-ins are common I’d avoid renting a car unless you’re doing a specific trip beyond the cities. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have an International Driving Permit.

When to Go to Colombia

Colombia’s location near the equator keeps the climate pretty consistent throughout the year, with average daily temperatures hovering around 24°C (75°F) near the coast and 7-17°C (45-63°F) at higher elevations.

The peak season for tourism is from December to March, as well as the week before Easter (Semana Santa). Prices are most expensive during this time, but the country overall is fairly dry. If you’ve come to have fun, time your visit for the Carnival in Barranquilla, which takes place every February. This is the biggest Carnival, but Pasto and Manizales also have lively carnivals in the first week of January.

The rainy season varies per region. In the mountainous Andean area, there are two dry and two wet seasons. The driest months occur from December-March and then July-August. In Southern Colombia, rainfall is more frequent, but the showers never last long.

If you’re planning on doing a bit of everything in Colombia — from hiking in the mountains to lounging on beaches and visiting ruins — December to March is definitely the best time to visit so you can take advantage of ideal conditions all across the country. Just be prepared for bigger crowds.

How to Stay Safe in Colombia

Colombia requires a lot of caution. On the whole, it’s generally safe and you’re not going to get kidnapped or anything. But there is still a lot of petty crime in the country, especially at night.

In fact, there’s a local expression about this in Colombia: “No dar papaya” (Don’t give papaya). Essentially, it means that you shouldn’t have something “sweet” out in the open (a phone, computer, watch, etc.) that would make you a target. Keep your valuables hidden, don’t wander around places you shouldn’t at night, don’t flash money around, avoid coming out of nightlife spots alone at night, etc.

Simply put: Don’t put yourself in a position where people can take advantage of you.

Do not do drugs here. You’re going to get a lot of offers but don’t be one of those people. First, it’s a huge insult to Colombians, who are trying to shed their drug-related past and don’t want to be associated with the cartels. Second, it’s illegal (although small amounts of cocaine and marijuana are decriminalized). Third, there’s a lot of violence associated with it, and you can end up in some bad situations. Don’t do drugs here.

You should also use caution when withdrawing money from an ATM. Avoid the ATMs on the street if possible and go into the bank to use the ATM. That way you can put your money away discreetly without being watched.

If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through a strap. It is very common for someone to try and snatch your bag so keep it secure at all times.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here. There’s a lot so keep an eye out!

Look for hotels or hostels with 24-hour security. You always want someone around in case you need assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you experience an emergency and need assistance, dial 123.

Because of the current situation in Venezuela, it’s a good idea to avoid the border towns of Cúcuta and Maicao.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Colombia, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Colombia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Colombia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Colombia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Medellín

The 6 Best Hotels in Bogotá

Where to Stay in Bogotá: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Medellín: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Colombia Safe to Visit?

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Colombia?

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Travel Guide Colombia

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• South America
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

This is the first time we have used this service (or any company) to organize our travels for us and we would happily use them again. The pre-trip process ...

Home to a traumatic but rich history, stunning scenery and some of the continent’s most welcoming and sophisticated people, Colombia is a natural draw for travellers to South America. Despite its four-decade-long civil war and reputation for violence, improved security conditions have led to a sharp increase in tourism.

Facts about Colombia

Where to go in colombia, outdoor activities in colombia, colombia’s festival planner, plan colombia, travel ideas for colombia, created by local experts.

Unforgettable Colombia

Spend your first days in Colombia exploring its capital city Bogotá before heading further to the coast: Cartagena and Santa Marta will be next on the agenda. From wandering the historic city center to hiking the jungles to a virgin beach, Colombia will be an unforgettable trip!

Colombia: music & arts explored

If you are a lover of the arts than look no further. This trip will bring you culture, art, architecture, music and dance: visit local markets and workshops, admire the graffiti in Bogotá, discover historical city centers and “Fondas” – local bars with exotic decoration and typical Colombian music.

Colombia for nature & adventure lovers

Do you like adventure and nature? Then you're in luck, this trip combines the best of both. Go horse riding through the Risaralda valley and join a bike tour through Cartagena, visit the beautiful Cocora Valley and discover the Coffee Cultural Landscape. There's something for everyone!

Classic Colombia

Colombia's rich culture and traditions make it a fascinating holiday destination: from the streets of Bogotá move on to the stunning Valle de Cocora and Salento with its remarkable wax palms. From Medellín take a day tour to Guatapé before finalizing your trip in coastal Cartagena.

Exploring Colombia

Explore three of the most famous Colombian cities Bogota, Medellín and Cartagena during this 9-day trip. Get to know each city and its unique people by diving deep into the culture, history and traditions.

Colombia: Family Adventure

From city adventures to experiencing a pump in your adrenaline while river rafting and learning more about the different species of birds, monkeys, squirrels, peccary and other species that can be found during an exiting rainforest trail....this truly is a trip packed with family fun activities!

Foreigners and Colombians alike are now far more able to explore this thrilling paradise of cloudforested mountains, palm-fringed beaches and gorgeous colonial cities. The only country in South America to border both the Pacific and the Caribbean, Colombia offers a huge range of ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest near Leticia to the snowcapped mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the tropical islands of San Andrés and Providencia.

Start planning your trip to Colombia today! With the help of our local experts and their carefully crafted Colombia itineraries , you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience

Population 46.3 million

Languages Spanish (official), plus various indigenous languages

Currency Colombian peso (C$ or COP$)

Capital Bogotá (population: 7.6 million)

International phone code 57

Time zone GMT -5hr

Cosmopolitan Bogotá is, like most capitals, a busy commercial centre, with a vibrant cultural scene and festive nightlife. The two other major cities, Medellín and Cali, are also lively but less overwhelming. Better still are the small towns scattered throughout the country that could turn out to be the highlight of your visit. Popayán and Mompox, for example, are famed for raucous Semana Santa (Easter week) celebrations, and Mompox has a timeless beauty to it. Colombia’s coffee-growing region, the Zona Cafetera, offers breathtaking walks in the foothills where the bean is grown, accommodation in authentic fincas (coffee farms) and excellent trekking.

Most visitors make time – and rightfully so – to head north to the Caribbean for the sun. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, the walled city of Cartagena is the biggest Spanish colonial port in South America. A few hours east, the less scenic Santa Marta and fishing village of Taganga are near Parque Nacional Tayrona, whose picturesque sandy beaches are unrivalled. The two are also great bases for a five-day trek to the archeological ruins of La Ciudad Perdida, the Lost City.

Ciudad Perdida, Lost City © Shutterstock

Almost un-Colombian in their feel, the remote Caribbean islands of San Andrés and Providencia both offer great diving, crystal-clear waters and – particularly in Providencia’s case – a unique Raizal culture.

As you head north from Bogotá through the Andes to Bucaramanga, picturesque colonial villages like Villa de Leyva give way to more tropical, river-fed bastions of adventure tourism such as San Gil.

In the southeast, Colombia’s stake of the Amazon, centred on Leticia, may not be as well known as Peru’s or Brazil’s but it offers a slice of jungle adventure and a gateway into the neighbouring countries. The southwest, near Popayán, boasts some wonderful scenery as well as the monumental stone statues and burial chambers of the forgotten cultures of San Agustín and Tierradentro.

Discover more places in Colombia

• North of Bogotá Travel Guide
• The Pacific coast Travel Guide
• San Andrés and Providencia Travel Guide
• The southwest Travel Guide

Adrenaline junkies might hyperventilate when they discover Colombia. From almost every vantage point there’s a snowcapped peak to climb, an untamed river to ride or some sunken coral reef to explore.

Colombia’s waters are a good (and cheap) place to learn to scuba dive. All along its 3000km of coastline, but especially around Santa Marta and Taganga, and also on the islands of San Andres and Providencia – home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef – operators offer week-long PADI certification courses for around COP$650,000. Be sure to enquire about the reputation of dive operators before signing up, check their PADI or NAUI accreditation, the instructor-to-student ratio and ask for recommendations from other divers. Snorkelling is also particularly good on the islands.

There is a concentration of Class II–IV rapids among the many rivers in the departamento of Santander – three intersect near San Gil – that offer some spectacular challenges to white-water rafting enthusiasts, while the river near San Agustin gives you a somewhat tamer ride.

Hiking in Colombia is second to none: there are demanding week-long adventures in Parque Nacional de Cocuy, jungle treks to the spectacular ruins of Ciudad Perdida, and shorter but no less attractive rambles around Manizales and Salento in coffee country.

Football is the national sport and Colombians have a reputation for being some of South America’s most skilled players. Cycling is also a common passion – the mountainous land here is made for rugged biking – and Colombians regularly compete in the Tour de France.

Bogota © Shutterstock

Colombia knows how to party and does so year-round. You can join in the following:

January Carnaval de Blancos y Negros . Pasto’s un-PC celebrations dating back to the days of slavery, with revellers with whitened and blackened faces throwing chalk and flour over each other.

February Carnaval de Barranquilla . Second-biggest carnival in South America, complete with parades, dancing, drinking and music, held forty days before Easter

March Semana Santa . Holy Week celebrated with nighttime processions by the faithful; particularly impressive in Popayán and Mompox

June/July Rock al Parque . Massive free thee-day pop/rock/funk/metal/reggae concert in Bogotá’s Parque Simón Bolívar.

August Feria de las Flores . Medellín’s big bash, culminating in a parade of peasants bearing flowers down from the mountains.

September Festival Mundial de Salsa . Cali’s salsa festival, with the hottest moves on show at the Teatro al Aire Libre Los Cristales

November Reinado Nacional de Belleza . Cartagena crowns Miss Colombia amid parades, street dancing and music

December Feria de Cali . Epic street parties.

On August 7, 2010, Juan Manuel Santos was inaugurated as the fortieth president of Colombia, following a failed attempt by former President Álvaro Uribe to run for an unprecedented third term in office. Uribe was first elected in 2002 on a platform of law and order and turned to the US for help in dealing with the country’s perpetual cycle of violence by tipping the military balance in their favour. Under Plan Colombia , the US has committed around US$7 billion in foreign aid, most of it to the military, to root out illegal drug trafficking and the guerrilla protectors that allow it to blossom. Largely intended to eradicate the growing of coca , Plan Colombia funded crop spraying on a large scale. Since the early 2000s coca production has declined dramatically – with the security situation improving as well – and Peru has now surpassed Colombia in coca production. However, coca farming has also adapted, for example by being planted in smaller areas, and the people who suffer the most from Plan Colombia have often been the impoverished farmers whose food crops have been sprayed alongside the coca plants and who have received no compensation from the Colombian government. Under Uribe drug-related crime declined and Santos has vowed to continue his predecessor’s hardline security policies.

Top image © Jess Kraft / Shutterstock

Travel advice for Colombia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Colombia

• Eating and drinking in Colombia
• Getting around Colombia: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Colombia
• Travel Tips Colombia for planning and on the go
• Weather in Medellin in April
• Weather in Medellín in March
• Weather in Colombia in January
• Weather in Colombia in February
• Weather in Colombia in April
• Weather in Colombia in June
• Weather in Colombia in July
• Weather in Colombia in August
• Weather in Colombia in September
• Weather in Colombia in October
• Weather in Colombia in November
• Weather in Colombia in December

The Rough Guides to Colombia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 24.04.2024

Ready to travel and discover Colombia?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Colombia Travel Guide

Your ultimate colombia travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in colombia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Located between the Caribbean, the Amazon Jungle, and the Andes Mountains, Colombia has something for everyone.

A bright, colorful country, it is a very popular tourist destination and for good reason.

Rich with culture and history and full of tropical climates, it makes a great place for fans of the outdoors or those who want to experience its many beaches and islands.

Add in the vibrant nightlife in cities like Medellin and it is a perfect vacation spot.

This Colombia travel guide will help you plan your next vacation. 

Popular Guides

• Things to do in Cartagena
• Must See Cities in Colombia

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Colombia

• Power voltage is 110V at 60 Hz.
• Colombia’s currency is the Colombian Peso and 1 Colombian Peso is equal to 0.0003 USD.
• The best way to get around Colombia is by bus.
• As long as your stay is under 90 days, you do not need a tourist visa, just a valid US passport.
• Popular network providers in Colombia include Claro, Tigo, and Movistar. You can purchase a SIM card through any of these networks by visiting their official stores.
• Colombia has a sales tax rate of 19%.

Things to See and Do in Colombia

Tayrona National Park:  Found in the Caribbean Coast of Colombia, head over to the Tayrona National Park to explore beautiful beaches and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria, the highest coastal mountain in the world. Once there, you can hike through the hillsides to see Pueblito, a village full of history and sacred sites from an ancient civilization, or go to the rainforest and see a variety of animals and species, including the very rare cotton-top tamarin (monkeys). https://www.beautifulworld.com/south-america/colombia/tayrona-national-park/embed/#?secret=xCh0K8LhzY

Gold Museum:  Spend time at this very popular gold exhibition in Bogotá. Take a guided tour to learn more about Colombia and its history or explore at your own pace and see artifacts and gold pieces from pre-Hispanic metallurgy.

Walled City of Cartagena:  Feel like you are back in time and explore the bright, colorful streets of Cartagena. Walk past beautiful restored colonial houses and buildings, enjoy fine dining, shop at designer boutique stores, and sample delicious fruits from the fruit stands.

Laguna de Guatape:  One of the most popular places in Medellin is the town of Guatape. Take a guided tour or explore on your own. Climb the 700 steps of the El Peñol rock to experience views like no other, see the artwork that decorates the town, visit the abandoned mansion of Pablo Escobar, and swim in the lake of Guatape.

San Andres Island:  Spend a day (or more) at this famous coral island. Swim in the warm waters, scuba dive with stingrays, explore the various caves, and take in peaceful sights.

Colombia Travel Guides

• Things to do in Cartagena – Visit the Jewel of Colombia
• Top 5 Must See Cities in Colombia
• 15 Reasons to Visit Colombia

Accommodation

Budget:  Colombia offers backpacker hostels with a mix of dorm-styled and private rooms for around 320 to 1,200 Colombian Pesos per night. Hostels tend to come with swimming pools, lounge areas, and/or complimentary breakfast.

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels, expect to pay 160,000 to 500,000 Colombian Pesos per night. Amenities include air-conditioned rooms and suites, outdoor pools, hotel restaurant and bar, fitness areas, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.

High-End:  Upscale hotels can go from 650,000 to 1,500,000 Colombian Pesos per night and include top-class hospitality service, upscale rooms with private balconies, prime city locations, ocean views, elegant dining, pools and spas, and more.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food :  The cuisine of Colombia is a mix of Indigenous, African, Spanish, and Arab cuisine and favors rice and bread, legumes, meat and seafood, and a variety of fresh fruits. When out and about, stop by local street vendors to taste some chopped papaya and mangoes or grilled corn on the cob or pastel del pollo (chicken-stuffed pastry) or Obleas con Arequipe (wafer sandwich with caramel sauce). At night, head down to a sit-down restaurant to enjoy more Colombian cuisine. Expect to pay roughly 25,000 Colombian Pesos per day for food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Colombia

Getting to colombia:.

Getting to Colombia:   The El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá is Colombia’s busiest airport and is just 9 miles, or a 30 to 60-minute drive, to Bogotá city. If traveling closer to the Amazon region, the Alfredo Vásquez Cobo International Airport is a good option.

Flights:   You can check for the best flights to Colombia on   Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Train:  Colombia has a nonexistent train system for passengers.

Bus:  Colombia offers many bus options both for shorter distances and to travel between cities. Long-distance buses are similar to a train and offer air-conditioning and sometimes Wi-Fi. Take a bus from Cali to Bogotá in about 10 hours for 70,000 Colombia Pesos, or take a city bus for 2,000 Colombian Pesos.

Rent a car:  To rent a car in Colombia, you will need a valid US license valid for at least two years. Note that is not as recommended to rent a car, as it is considered less safe than taking a bus. If you do rent, make sure to find a rental agency that offers insurance. Prices start at around 400,000 Colombian Pesos per day. Colombia also offers taxi services and Ubers.Check for prices and availability here.

When to go To Colombia

• The best time to visit depends on where you are going. December to March are the driest months in general, which is ideal for those going to the Andes Mountains. If you’re heading to the Amazon region, go between July and August, where there is less rainfall. To avoid the crowds and get better prices on flights and hotels, November is a good month to visit Columbia.

Where to Stay in Colombia

Ibis Medellin :  Stay in the heart of Medellin at this stylish hotel. The convention center, Museum of Modern Art, downtown area, and the train station are all just minutes away. Once you’re done exploring, head back to the hotel for free high-speed Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and the hotel’s bar and restaurant.

Hotel Vilar America:   Come stay at this charming hotel situated between the historic and nightlife districts of Bogotá. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and breakfast, family rooms with flat-screen TVs, and the hotel’s restaurant before venturing out in Bogotá.

Hotel Cosmos Cali :  Enjoy air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs at this hotel in Cali. Room service, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast are included. Take a short walk to the Cali City Theater or head down to the Cali bullring.

What to Pack for Colombia

• Sunscreen:  Protect your skin from the beautiful sun with some sunscreen.
• Hiking Boots:  Keep your feet comfortable with a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
• Swimsuit:  With so many beaches and waters to explore, make sure to bring a swimsuit with you.

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Colombia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Colombia Travel Guide: Related Articles

18 Best Things to Do in Cartagena – The Jewel of Colombia

Colombian Food: 28 Traditional Dishes to try in Colombia or at home

25 Fun Facts About Colombia – Plan Your Trip Today

Immerse Yourself in Colombia: An Authentic Travel Guide

Leaving from...

Going to...

Discover Destinations When to Travel How to get around Visa Food Other Tips

Discover Colombia

If you asked someone 30-odd years ago what they knew about Colombia, you’d probably get responses relating to drug cartels, danger and of course Pablo Escobar.

Since then Colombia has moved on dramatically. Just take the constant 10% increase in tourists year on year as an example of how this country has changed for the better.

We’ve created this ultimate guide to Colombia to share with you everything that this diverse country has to offer. Decided that Colombia is somewhere you HAVE to visit? 

Check out our twelve in-depth guides to learn about the best things to do and see in Colombia.

Is Colombia worth visiting?

Colombia is one of the world’s most diverse countrie s, boasting two oceans, the Andes mountain range, cultural and thriving cities, flourishing jungles and with that native wildlife.

Housed across Colombia’s 59 national parks , you’ll find over 10% of the world’s animal species, making it a great country to explore if you love wildlife.

If exploring the wilderness is not what you are after, there’s no need to worry. Colombia has a number of energetic metropolitan cities that offer a great food scene, a number of historical sites and innovation spurred by the entrepreneurship that’s flourishing within the cities.

Destinations like Cartagena boast stunning colonial architecture that tells a story of years ago, transporting you back in time as you wander through its streets.

Throughout Colombia, you’ll come across a number of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities . Whether it be whitewater rafting, hiking, kitesurfing, horse riding, or diving…the list literally goes on and on!

Keep reading: Looking for inspiration on where to stay? Check out our list of 43 best places to stay In Colombia to discover the most unique and best-value accommodations out there.

Is Colombia safe?

Despite Colombia’s huge steps towards change, people are still asking the same question – ‘Is Colombia safe?’

In short, it’s safe to travel to Colombia , but you need to be aware of which places are better to avoid. We’ve put together a devoted blog that delves into travelling safely in Colombia . You can use this resource to help you decide whether Colombia is safe enough for you.

Best destinations in Colombia

Top 3 places to visit in Colombia

Colombia is a diverse country offering lots of different opportunities and adventures depending on where you go.

As hard as it is to pick, here are our top three places to visit in Colombia:

Medellin — an incredible and innovative city

Once home to the famous drug lord, Pablo Escobar, Medellin used to be considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Fast forward to now and Medellin has completely transformed itself into a thriving and innovative cosmopolitan city.

The city is considerably safer with a top-notch transport system via its metro system and cable cars, numerous stunning parks and delicious restaurants.

Another great thing about Medellin, due to its location, temperatures remain warm and pleasant , meaning you can visit all year round. If you are in Medellin, we also recommend taking the 2-hour bus journey from Medellin to Guatape as a day trip.

Cartagena — where the Caribbean and Colombia collide

Situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena boasts some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in all of the Americas.

Once a crown jewel of the Spanish empire, you’ll clearly understand why it’s been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site after a few hours of strolling around Cartagena. The 13 km of ancient walls seemed to have preserved the city, giving you the feeling of going back in time.

Being on the coast, Cartagena isn’t too far from some amazing beaches including Playa Blanca. Inevitably though, this kind of beauty has attracted tourists from all over the world, meaning some of the popular sites and beaches can get very busy! It’s only a 1 to 1.5-hour flight from Bogota to Cartagena .

Tayrona National Park — some of Colombia’s best nature

Tayrona National Park sits in northern Colombia at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta where they meet the Caribbean coast.

The national park is a large protected area perfect for travellers looking to explore some of the best beaches in Colombia or adventure through lagoons to picturesque cloud forests. The beaches offer great places to snorkel, whilst the jungles provide opportunities to hike amongst wildlife such as birds, lizards and monkeys.

It takes around 5 hours from Cartagena to Tayrona National Park , while it’s only 3 hours from Barranquilla and less than an hour from Santa Marta .

When is the best time to visit Colombia?

Due to Colombia’s proximity to the equator, temperatures remain stable throughout most of the year. Temperatures do vary depending on altitude, though. The higher you go, the colder it tends to be.

Here’s a rough guide of the average temperatures depending on altitude:

• < 1000 m –  More than 24°C (Cartagena, Santa Marta, Cali)
• 1000 – 2000 m – ~ 20°C (Medellín, Manizales)
• 2000 – 3000 m – ~ 14°C – (Bogota, Pasto)

Colombia has two seasons, a wet and a dry one. The dry season is between December and March , considered one of the best times to visit Colombia, and the wet season runs from April to June and October to November . July to September can also be a good time to visit because it’s mainly dry, plus it’s whale season!

December to February is the busiest time

However, you won’t be the only person wanting to travel at the best time, so if you chose to visit Colombia between December and February, expect a lot of tourists. With more tourists come higher prices as businesses have the leverage to increase prices.

Travelling outside of these months can save you some money and also provide the opportunity to explore tourist sites without thousands of other tourists.

How to get around in Colombia

Colombia is a huge country with plenty of amazing destinations to explore. Around a third of the country is taken up by the Amazon Jungle where moving around is extremely difficult, but luckily the rest of the country isn’t quite as tricky to navigate.

Here’s a short overview of the main transport options:

When travelling around Colombia, one of your main forms of transport will be its extensive bus network. Long-distance buses tend to be relatively comfortable with reclining seats, air conditioning and toilets.

You’ll be looking for comfort as journeys between the big cities are pretty long . For example, Medellin to Cartagena is 14 hours, and Bogota to Cali is 10 hours.

The main bus companies in Colombia are Expreso Palmira, Bolivariano and Trejos , which also provide good service and easy-to-use websites.

A big tip when travelling by bus in Colombia is to wear warm clothes. We all love a bit of air conditioning, but those buses get seriously cold. Ten hours in arctic temperatures isn’t exactly going to be enjoyable!

Flying in Colombia is a popular option, especially for those short on time or who have a larger budget to play around with.

There are a number of domestic airline providers including the two biggest Avianca and Copa. VivaColombia is also a big player in the airline space and tends to offer the cheapest flights, but watch out for the luggage restrictions.

The majority of the time flights are more expensive than the bus, but it’s worth checking just in case, because the cost-time ratio may be worth it. Do keep in mind that taking a short-haul flight can be up to ten times more polluting than taking a more environmentally-friendly option like the bus.

By colectivo

Colectivos are small minivans or truck-style vehicles that are mainly used for short journeys within a city or between two that are nearby. This form of transportation is predominantly used by locals, meaning they’re usually cheap.

Make sure to agree on the price to your destination before getting in, though. They’re definitely not as comfortable as the bus and don’t have much space for your luggage. Because they don’t have set pick-ups and drop-offs, they can get you closer to where you want to be than the bus.

A big downside though is that they don’t leave until they’re full , so you could be waiting around for a while!

Although renting a car in Colombia isn’t a very popular choice amongst travellers, it doesn’t mean it’s not an option. You’ll need a passport, credit card and international driver’s license in order to rent a car with prices starting from around $17.

Sure, having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own leisure, but do consider that the road quality between some cities isn’t great and Colombians aren’t known to be the most careful drivers. Bus travel is also very convenient, so we would recommend using the available transport.

Colombia doesn’t have a train network , so unfortunately this isn’t an option!

Entry requirements and visa for Colombia

We all love to hear it, travelling to Colombia is relatively stress-free when it comes to immigration and Visas. A large number of countries are able to enter Colombia visa-free for a period of up to 90 days.

This includes countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, New Zealand and those within the European Union, amongst others. These countries are all included in the list of countries that don’t require a Visa .

In addition, all visitors are required to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry, so make sure to renew your passport if it’s going to run out soon.

Proof of exit

Sometimes Colombian border force will ask you for proof of exit from the country in the form of a plane, bus or boat ticket. Other times they won’t. If you don’t want to take your chances but don’t know when you want to leave Colombia, there’s a way around it.

‘Rent’ a plane ticket for $12.  Best Onward Travel  book a real plane ticket for you that is valid for 48 hours. It’s 100% legal and safe.

Must-try food in Colombia

Colombia’s food scene varies depending on which region you’re visiting, meaning if you’re backpacking through Colombia you’ll be treated to a variety of dishes and flavours.

Colombia is a country rich in natural ingredients which you’ll find in their predominantly meat-based dishes and delicious soups.

Of course, we couldn’t write about Colombia and not mention the coffee. Coffee in Colombia boasts a mild, well-balanced flavour that is popular all around the world. Their average annual coffee production is 11.5 million bags, the third highest in the world.

Here are some of our favourite dishes you have to try whilst you’re in Colombia:

• Bandeja Paisa — is the national dish of Colombia. It was originally created to provide peasant workers with enough energy for a hard day’s work. Nowadays it’s a substantial, high-calorie lunchtime meal which is perfect for anyone looking for a challenge. It consists of rice, plantain, arepa (corn cakes), avocado, minced meat, chorizo, black sausage, fried pork rind and then topped with a fried egg. We wish anyone who takes this dish the best of luck!
• Mondongo Soup — you’ll find this dish served in most Colombian restaurants, but the dish may not be for everyone. It consists of diced tripe (typically the stomach of a cow, slow-cooked chicken or beef stock and lots of vegetables. When in Rome as they say!
• Empanadas — are a popular snack throughout both Central and South America. They are typically deep-fried pastries stuffed with a variety of different fillings, from meat with potatoes to vegetarian options. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, you can also find baked versions too. Empanadas are usually super cheap and the perfect snack to tide you over till dinner.

Essential travel tips for Colombia

Here’s a selection of the best tips and pieces of information that may make your trip to Colombia that bit easier:

Paying with Colombian Pesos in Colombia

Colombia uses the Colombian Peso . The last time we checked (June 2023), $1 was equivalent to around 4170 COP.

It’s good to always have some cash on you. Not all establishments take cards. You’ll also need cash for taking the bus, markets and tips too.

In all of the big cities, there will be plenty of ATMs available to withdraw money and in more rural areas, you may have to rely on bank branches instead.

Most ATMs in Colombia charge between 10,000 and 14,000 COP to withdraw money. However, BBVA, Davivienda and Colpatria don’t apply charges to certain cards, so try these ones first.

Buying a sim card in Colombia

There are three main mobile providers in Colombia — Movistar, Tigo and Claro . You’ll be able to find stores for these providers all over Colombia, and in most of the international airports. Claro is the most popular of the three and offers great coverage, speed and packages.

Although it can be tempting to buy a sim card when you first arrive in a country, if you’re on a budget, I would avoid doing this. The sim cards at the airport are often a lot more expensive than buying it in a store in the city. They know that people will pay for convenience!

Colombia’s language cheat sheet

The language spoken in Colombia is Spanish .

It’s always good to know a few essential words before travelling to a place, so here are a few to get you started:

• Hello – Hola
• Thank you – Gracias
• Please – Por favour
• Sorry – Lo siento
• Beer – Cerveza

The perfect packing list for Colombia

For the majority of your time in Colombia, you’ll probably be enjoying warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. Meaning you’ll need cool and light clothes.

However, if you’re venturing to higher altitudes, make sure to bring some warmer clothes, especially for the nighttime. A rain jacket is also a good shout if you’re travelling outside of the dry seasons.

Aside from the essential travel gear, here are some that have become permanent fixtures on our packing list:

• Reusable water bottle – they’re better for the environment and can save you money on water.
• A portable charger – there’s probably going to be a time when your phone’s battery is on red, at a time that you desperately need it.
• An adaptor – Colombia uses plugs A and B, the same as the main plugs used in North and Central America. A universal travel adaptor is a great buy if you’re travelling between different continents.

Was this post helpful?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 4.3 / 5. Vote count: 9

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

As you found this post useful...

Follow us on social media!

We are sorry that this post didn't meet your expectations.

Your feedback is very valueable to us

What was missing in this post? (TIP: If you want us to reply to your feedback, you can leave your email in this text box.)

Join the Gecko Routes Community

Get the best travel tips delivered straight to your inbox.

Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.

• Explore more
• Barranquilla
• Santa Marta
• Isla Grande
• Tayrona National Park
• Bogota to Cali
• Bogota to Cartagena
• Bogota to Medellin
• Cartagena to Barranquilla
• Medellin to Bogota
• Medellin to Cartagena

To enhance your experience on our website, we utilize cookies. By browsing our site, you agree to our cookie use. For details, please read our privacy policy .

Despite its complex history, today’s Colombia is peaceful, multicultural, and forward-looking. Against a background of gorgeous nature and warm welcomes, visitors experience a Colombia that insiders have known all along: tranquil Caribbean beaches, sleepy colonial villages nestled within the towering Andes, ochre-colored deserts that spill into the sea, unspoiled jungles, amazing wildlife, mysterious archeological ruins, and vibrant cities.

• Copy Link copied

Shutterstock

When’s the best time to go to Colombia?

Being so close to the equator, Colombia lacks defined seasons; the elevation—more than the calendar—determines the weather. Higher altitudes are chilly enough for a thick sweater and the steamy lowlands have tropical weather year-round. The period between mid-December and March tends to be drier, the skies bluer. December and January are also the height of the local holiday season, so major destinations, especially on the Caribbean, can get a bit crowded.

• Bogota’s Expo-Artesanías fair, which features exquisitely crafted and curated handicrafts from all over the country, starts in mid-December.
• The Feria de Cali is a music, food, and culture extravaganza held yearly from Christmas Day to December 30, which features parades, bullfights, sporting events, and concerts.
• For nine days in early January, Cartagena’s International Music Festival uses the city’s spectacular architecture as a backdrop for dozens of concerts by internationally renowned classical musicians.
• The Carnaval de Negros y Blancos , in the southern city of Pasto from late December to early January, is an explosion of color and joy that includes float-filled parades and a full calendar of parties and events.
• Cartagena’s Hay Literature and Arts Festival is a four-day event showcasing literature, politics, and journalism, in talks and conferences (many in English) that could even include the latest Nobel laureate for literature.
• The Carnival at Barranquilla, though smaller than the celebration in Rio de Janeiro, is a boisterous blowout nonetheless, complete with beauty queens, parades, spectacular costumes, dancing till dawn and a great deal of drinking.

How to get around Colombia

Major airlines fly to Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla from many U.S., Latin American, and European cities. When in Colombia, you can take domestic flights from city to city and and areas further afield. Highways are generally safe and renting cars is becoming more common, but driving distances can be deceptive, especially if you’re stuck behind a truck slogging through the mountains on a single-lane highway. Hiring a driver to go from one town to the next is a convenient, not-overly-extravagant indulgence. Intercity buses provide more scenery but run the gamut, ranging from decent drivers and ample comforts to bumpy jalopies going far too fast. Always purchase the highest grade of service available.

Can’t miss things to do in Colombia

The Gold Museum and the view from Monserrate in Bogotá; watching the sunset from Cartagena’s ancient ramparts; exploring Parque Tayrona near Santa Marta.

Food and drink to try in Colombia

One of the first things Colombians will ask is whether you like the food; it’s important to them you do. And while traditional Colombian cuisine skews to meat-and-potatoes, the culinary scene in bigger cities has burst to life in recent years, jazzing up traditional favorites.

Regional specialties include Bogotá’s signature potato soup, ajiaco ; the belt-busting bandeja paisa in Medellín (it includes pork crackling, avocado, grilled banana patties, rice, beans); Barranquilla’s cheese-and-yam mote de queso ; and piangua mollusk in coconut sauce, served almost everywhere on the Pacific coast. Try amazing juices made from local fruits like lulo, feijoa, tomate de árbol, curuba (banana-passionfruit), starfruit, tamarind, plus dozens of other flavors. Local breads made from cassava or corn flour and cheese, such as pan de bono, pan de yuca , or almojábanas are heavenly. Not least of all, each region has its own version of the arepa, a fabulous cornmeal bread, buttered and filled with sundry goodies. In Antioquia, they are thin and mild, to temper the region’s intense flavors; in and around Bogotá, they come filled with gooey cheese; the Santander iteration is toasty, often peppered with bits of chicharrón.

Culture in Colombia

Colombia’s cultural landscape is as varied as its geography; listening to each region’s music is a great lens through which to see the differences. Cali is the epicenter of thrilling Colombian salsa music and dance; Valledupar is the vallenato capital; the Pacific coast has its chirimía and currulao ; and the Caribbean is home to champeta , cumbia , and mapale . The Andean region is known for bambuco and the Llanos for joropo . Somewhat incongruously, Medellín has a strong tango tradition (though the genre originated in Argentina). In recent years, musicians like La Mojarra Eléctrica, Systema Solar, Curupira, Herencia de Timbiquí, ChoqQuibTown, or Bomba Estereo have injected edgy, urban rhythms into these venerable folk traditions.

For Families

Colombia is very child-friendly. Colombians love to travel in big family groups with everyone from the grandparents to infants and many travel destinations for domestic tourists revolve around entertaining the kids. Amusement parks include Hacienda Nápoles, once the sprawling estate of famed drug lord Pablo Escobar, which has been transformed into a safari-type park with wild animals—including the African hippos Pablo imported for his pleasure—and rides. Other amusement parks include Parque del Café in the coffee triangle, Mundo Aventura and Parque Salitre in Bogotá, and Parque Jaime Duque just north of the capital. Interactive museums are another hit for families with children including Maloka in Bogotá and Parque Explora in Medellín.

Local Resources

• Colombia Tourism
• The City Paper
• The Bogota Post

Practical Information

Just about everybody in Colombia speaks Spanish, though it’s not the country’s only language. Along with about 70 indigenous languages, including Arhuaco and Quechuan, there are two forms of Creole—one a blend of English and Spanish, the other is Spanish-based.

No need for adapters, Colombia’s electric outlets run at 110 volts.

Guide Editor

Sibylla Brodzinsky is a Bogotá-based freelance reporter and author who has spent more than 20 years writing on Latin American politics, human rights and social issues, and is the Colombia correspondent for both The Economist and The Guardian. She is co-editor of Throwing Stones at the Moon (McSweeney’s, 2012), a compilation of oral histories from Colombians displaced by violence.

13 things to know before visiting Colombia

Feb 29, 2024 • 8 min read

From health and safety to etiquette, these tips can help you plan your trip to Colombia © jeremykingnz / Shutterstock

Whether you’re drawn by its beguiling coastlines , untamed jungle or high-altitude national parks , Colombia is guaranteed to dazzle.

After decades of association with armed conflict and drug cartels, this South American country has moved well beyond those dark decades, emerging from that chapter of history as one of the continent’s most thrilling and welcoming destinations to explore . 

Travelers to Colombia should prepare for a trip that will leave them wishing they never had a return ticket, thanks to the country’s remarkably warm and friendly people and uniquely Latin spirit.

Follow these tips on planning and health and safety to ensure a truly unforgettable trip to Colombia.

1. Don't attempt to see all of Colombia in one trip

A big mistake that even seasoned travelers have made is to try and pack too much into a trip around Colombia. Before trying to squeeze every last corner of the country into a two-week itinerary, cast your eyes over the map.

Stick to exploring one section of the country and exploring it well: spend three weeks bouncing between sun-soaked,  Caribbean beaches or heading from Medellín deep into the Zona Cafetera . Your trip should match Colombia’s characteristic pace: slow and enjoyable. 

2. Domestic flights are affordable and quick

If you’re still planning to cram as many places as possible into a short trip, Colombia’s wealth of low-cost airlines offer the most efficient way of getting around (although there's your carbon footprint to consider too).

While nothing quite compares with the cultural experience of taking a regional bus (where you’ll be “entertained” by deafening music for the duration), increasingly cheap fares are available for domestic flights.

Don’t be fooled by headline prices, these typically don’t include checked baggage. Peak traveling seasons (December through mid-January, Semana Santa and June through August) will add a premium and can sell out rapidly, so book flights in advance if visiting during these months.

3. Pack for all weather

Whether you’re hitting the Caribbean coast or heading to the rainier climes of the capital,  Bogotá , you can expect to experience a full array of weather conditions.

While Colombia officially has two distinct seasons – the dry season (December through February and July through August) and the rainy season (April, May, and September through November) – because of the country’s variation in altitudes and ecosystems, you’ll probably experience all four seasons in one trip.

As a rule, the Caribbean coast is hot and humid, while Bogotá and the wider Andean regions receive a surfeit of rain. Come prepared with plenty of layers, including a warm, easy-to-pack rain jacket, and you’ll be primed to adapt to whatever the weather might throw at you.

4. A little Spanish will get you a long way

For a country so long enveloped by violent conflict, Colombia today is a remarkably open and welcoming destination for international travelers. Wherever you are, it’s easy to strike up a conversation with the owner of a restaurant, your taxi driver or a local enjoying the sunshine in a city plaza (and they’ll be delighted if you do!).

Knowing more than the basics of Spanish can go a long way, spurring engaging, fascinating conversations about Colombian culture, football, history and politics.

Colombian Spanish, particularly in Bogotá and Medellín, is considered one of the easiest to understand in Latin America because Colombians tend to enunciate their words. Make the most of affordable language schools in both cities to get some practice in before you head out into the rest of the country.

5. There are checkpoints with a strong military presence

When traveling in rural parts of Colombia, it’s not uncommon to come across road checkpoints staffed by army personnel, who’ll often ask to see your documents before waving you on your way.

In areas recently opened to tourism, you might even spot tanks and other military vehicles stationed alongside roads. 

While it might seem intimidating, the strong military presence around the country is there for the safety of the local people – and you. Be polite and have the correct paperwork (either your actual passport or a photocopy of the main page and entry stamp) with you, and you’ll rarely have an issue.

6. Don’t expect punctuality

Like much of Latin America, Colombian culture isn’t known for its strict adherence to the clock, and a punctuality-obsessed traveler is often a disappointed one. “Colombian time” is practically its own time zone, and you should leave any notions of timeliness at home.

To avoid getting frustrated, relax and embrace being flexible – really, the only way to deal with the typically laid-back Colombian attitude toward life, the universe and pretty much everything.

While big, inter-regional buses and flights do tend to leave on time, tight schedules aren't followed in many other contexts. If you’re making an appointment with a Colombian person or waiting for a rural colectivo to depart, bring a book as you may well be waiting up to an hour beyond the agreed time.

7. Drugs and talking about that Netflix show are big no-nos

If there’s one way to annoy Colombians, it’s to get onto a topic that many Western tourists, despite Colombian’s attempts to dissuade them, continue to associate with the country: drugs. Illegal substances are a taboo subject in Colombia, and despite (or more likely, because of) the country’s history, few Colombians take them.

Residents of Medellín, in particular, are fed up with the city’s association with drug cartels and with tourists who go there to use cocaine, which is illegal and could see you getting into a lot of trouble if caught. 

When traveling in Colombia, don’t mention Narcos , either. Colombians are frustrated with the Netflix show’s portrayal of the country and what they see as the exaltation of a mass murderer.

Show some respect and steer clear of the many Pablo Escobar tours, too. Listening to local people's experiences during the drug-war years is likely to be far more informative and accurate.

8. Taxis will help you get around safely

While safety is no longer the same overwhelming concern it once was, taking taxis when traveling between neighborhoods in big cities across Colombia is a sensible choice.

Wandering around at night, particularly after you’ve had a shot of heady aguardiente or two, is often an invitation to opportunist thieves.

Taxis are extremely affordable and relatively painless if using a ride-share app, such as Cabify or Uber . Hailing a taxi can leave you open to scams or worse, so calling for a cab (or asking your hotel to) is recommended. Always confirm the price or check that the taxi has a working meter before entering a vehicle.

9. Bogotá has a well-established gay scene

Homosexuality was decriminalized in Colombia in early 1980s, and the first same-sex marriage ceremony was performed in 2013 – evidence that this country has some of the more progressive attitudes toward LGBTIQ+ rights in Latin America.

Bogotá has a well-established gay scene, with bars and nightlife mostly found in Chapinero, one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods . Some lodgings and restaurants are beginning to advertise themselves as gay-friendly.

Despite its progressive laws, much of Colombian society remains traditionalist, and many same-sex couples still feel unsafe showing affection in public. For more information specifically for LGBTIQ+ travelers, check out Guia Gay Colombia. 

10. Tipping isn’t obligatory, but it is appreciated

Dining out in Colombia is extremely affordable.

When you go to pay the bill at fancier or more upmarket restaurants, it’s likely you’ll be asked if you want to include the propina (tip), typically around 10% of the cost of the meal.

Service in restaurants, cafes and bars across Colombia is generally much better than in many other parts of South America , so unless you had a terrible experience, consider paying the tip to show your appreciation. 

11. Traveling is safe – but stick to the beaten track

Colombia has experienced an about-face in the past few decades, shedding its title as one of Latin America’s most dangerous countries and coming into its own as a worthy travel destination.

It all comes down to the history-making peace accords signed in 2016 between the Colombian government and the FARC, which, after five decades of conflict, have led to many rural parts of the country finally shifting from no-go areas into welcoming places for visitors.

However, it still isn’t wise to go too far off the beaten path. Some rural areas remain dangerous because of their links with neo-paramilitary and drug-trafficking groups, particularly along the borders with Panama, Venezuela and Ecuador.

Before traveling anywhere unusual, always research the situation on the ground as well as your government’s travel advisories.

12. Scams and muggings do happen

While safety has improved significantly, you should always “ no dar papaya .” This delightful idiom – which literally translates to “don’t give papaya” – means you should always keep your wits about you, staying alert to those who would take advantage of you.

In practice, this means following common-sense guidelines: don’t wander down dark, empty streets at night, don’t head out into neighborhoods you don’t know without checking their safety first and don’t flap about the city with an expensive camera or phone on display.

Travel insurance is essential because muggings are, unfortunately still an issue in cities such as Bogota, Cali and Medellín.

You should never resist if someone tries to rob you. Distraction techniques are those used most fruitfully by would-be thieves, so always be wary of people coming up to you in the street or being asked to show your money to scammers posing as police officers.

If things do go wrong, head to the nearest police station immediately to report the crime. The police will put together a report and give you a copy, which you’ll need to make an insurance claim.

13. Don’t let this country’s history scare you away

Colombia has come on leaps and bounds since the dark days of the 1980s and 1990s, and its residents are more than excited to show you their beautiful and wonderfully diverse country.

The biggest mistake you can make is to let Netflix or historic newspaper headlines scare you away: this is a country that just about every traveler can’t help but fall in love with. The biggest danger when visiting Colombia? Finding yourself never wanting to leave.

This article was first published May 14, 2022 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Jul 31, 2024 • 4 min read

Tipping etiquette confuses almost every traveler – what's appropriate and who should you tip? This is what you need to know about tipping in the Americas.

Jul 30, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 30, 2024 • 8 min read

Jun 13, 2024 • 6 min read

Jun 4, 2024 • 7 min read

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

May 22, 2024 • 8 min read

May 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 1, 2024 • 9 min read

The Definitive Guide To Colombia Travel

by Steven Dillon | Oct 11, 2018

Whether you’re planning a trip to Colombia or still making your mind up about visiting, we’ve put together an unbeatable guide to Colombia travel to help you to decide when to go, where to stay and what to do when you get there.

We’ve used our insider knowledge and local experience to cover everything from the best cities, the best towns, included some handcrafted itineraries for short and longer stays, details about the best Colombian festivals, best times to travel and how to stay safe when getting around. Read on or simply download the guide in full now !

About Colombia

Located in the North West of South America, Colombia is one of the most diverse countries on the planet.

With a rich and lustrous landscape –  from snow-capped mountains to pristine exotic beaches – Colombia is brimming with awe inspiring natural wonders, breathtaking views and is absolutely packed with authentic Latino culture.

We think there is no place on earth quite like it.

Until recently though Colombia has unfortunately been a bit of a ‘no go’ destination for travelers, thanks mainly to its long and chequered history of drug cartels, crime and civil war.

However, after the signing of the peace agreement between the Colombia Government and guerrilla group FARC in 2016, Colombia has begun a long awaited transformation (socially, politically and economically) and is now emerging as a ‘must-see’ destination .

Although Colombia does still struggle at times to shake off its shady reputation, it is the resilience of the Colombian people; their warmth, passion and friendliness towards foreigners – not to mention their obsession with salsa and partying – that ultimately makes Colombia THE place to visit.

When you arrive you can expect a warm welcome from the locals who are eager to share their food, culture and coffee.

You’re in for one unforgettable experience.

Colombia Facts

Colombia vs columbia, where is colombia, colombia’s climate:, colombia’s population:, political situation:, getting there:, vaccinations:.

The Best Cities in Colombia

Bogota is Colombia’s capital city and cultural heartbeat. The vibe here is bustling, cosmopolitan, cool and hip, and typical of a big and sprawling city. It’s location in the Andes region of the country means it is set in the valley of large imposing mountains. However, this provides a spectacular and humbling view of the contrast between traditional colonial architecture and modern city skyscrapers and due to its high altitude (8,661 feet) the climate is generally cooler than in most other parts of Colombia. Bogota is quickly gaining a reputation internationally for its thriving art scene, buzzing nightlife, and awesome food (although it’s not such a secret to the locals).

Medellin is a city on the up! Known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ Medellin is a city well worth a visit.

Medellin is probably more famous for being home of drug lord, Pablo Escobar, and its portrayal on the Netflix series Narcos, but there is definitely a lot more to explore in this vibrant city. Most people are surprised and impressed by the clean and modern infrastructure of Medellin. They have highly functional transport systems and a highly innovative metro cable gondola system which connects the city with the poorer neighborhoods up in the mountains. In fact, in 2013, Medellin was named ‘world city of innovation’ due in large part to such projects. The views in Medellin are something to experience.

Nestled deep within the Andes mountains, the mountain ranges appear to tower over most of the city. This also means there are plenty of vantage points to climb for spectacular views of the city below. In spite of Medellin’s undoubted renaissance, it remains a city of contrasts. Impressive modern architecture, leafy residential streets, and trendy restaurants all sit within eyesight of mountains brimming with overpopulated slums. The remnants of Medellin’s darker history.

Find out everything you need to know about Medellin in our ultimate guide with over 58 things to do in Medellin.  

If you’re looking for a slice of tropical paradise, Cartagena is it! Cartagena is a hot, sassy, and an utterly seductive port city set on the golden shores of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Expect high temperatures humidity and an altogether slower pace of life compared with the urban sprawls of Bogota and Medellin. The jewel in Cartagena’s crown is the walled Old Town—an UNESCO world heritage site, full of cobbled streets, quaint plazas and strikingly colorful architecture. Cartagena is the perfect place to go in Colombia for sunshine, cocktails, rest and relaxation—and, of course, to experience the infamous warm and friendly Colombian/Caribbean culture.

The Best Towns in Colombia

Santa fe de antioquia.

3 hours south of Medellin, and giving Gautape a good run for its money as most colorful, and certainly a candidate for the most beautiful town in Colombia, is Jardin. It’s a little bit further from Medellin but absolutely worth the effort. It’s a great little town for just wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere but also great for hikes and visiting coffee plantations .

Vialla de Leyva

This charming Colombian town, located at the epicentre of Colombia’s coffee region , is the perfect base for exploring the nearby Cocora Valley and Los Nevados National Park. The local pace of life is extremely relaxed, the restaurants are famous for their locally sourced freshwater trout and there is a thriving community of craftsmen and artisans as well as remaining one of the region‘s most prolific coffee producers. If you’re heading to this part of Colombia to enjoy the nearby nature then Salento is the perfect place to stay.

10 Things You MUST Do in Colombia

1. SALSA like a local – Colombians are famed for being some of the hottest salsa dancers in the world and much of the best salsa music originates from the country. Don’t just observe from the sidelines, go take a lesson and then head to a bar and get those hips moving!

2. HIKE the magnificent mountains – Colombian is blessed with an abundance of hiking trails which (somehow) don’t get the same attention as some of its neighbours. Andean peaks, snow-capped glaciers, dense jungles, hidden civilisations – the variety is mind-blowing. Make sure you do at least one hike while in Colombia!

3. DEVOUR bandeja Paisa – rice, beans, chicharrón, minced beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, avocado and arepa all one one plate – it’s a beast! Think full English breakfast but better. This is Colombia’s most popular dish and if you really want the full Colombian experience it’s a must. 

4. TRY learning some Spanish – you don’t need to be fluent but a little will go a long way and the locals love it when they see foreigners make the effort. Try to learn the basics before you arrive and why not do some lessons while you’re here?

5. DRINK ‘tragos’ of Aguardiente – literally meaning ‘Fire Water’. It’s the Colombian alcoholic drink of choice and whenever you go to a bar you’ll see that most groups will have a bottle at their table. When in Colombia…!

6. DISCOVER the sounds of Colombia – you’ve probably already heard of Salsa but what about Vallenato, Cumbia, Reggaeton, Merengue, Porro, Champeta or Bachata? Colombia is literally brimming with music so make sure you take the time to experience it all.

7. LEARN about the rich culture and painful history – don’t just see Colombia, go speak to its people, learn about their culture and listen to their stories (hint – not everything is about drugs and Pablo Escobar).

8. VENTURE outside of the cities – Colombia has some of the most amazingly vibrant cities but the real magic lives in the pueblos (towns). Seek them out, slowly wander through, admire the preservation of the ancient customs and interact with the locals. Do this and you will truly start to understand Colombia.

9. SAVOUR the exotic fruits – Colombia is spoiled with an array of exotic fruits that you probably can’t pronounce and have most likely never heard of. Make it your mission to get through each and every one of them (hint: granadilla is worth trying at least twice).

10. GIVE BACK – Colombia is still a developing country and tourism has the potential to be a real positive force within the country. Make your visit count! Spend your money with the local companies, seek out good causes, and spread the word back home about all of the amazing things you experience during your visit.

There’s More…

Here we’ve provided quite a lot of information to help get you started on planning your trip…but it doesn’t end there. We’ve put together an incredibly detailed guide that you can download now and read when you’ve got a bit more time.

This 96 page guide to Colombia Travel is packed with information about getting around, staying safe, Colombian Festivals, public holidays, cultural considerations and 4 incredible hand-picked itineraries for 1, 2 and 2 plus weeks in Colombia that will take you to the best places and most beautiful destinations Colombia has to offer.

If that wasn’t enough, we’ve also included detailed information about Colombian cuisine, the best places in Colombia for natural beauty, the weather by region and even more information about what Colombia has to offer.

Why Download OUR Guide?

We are self-professed obsessives when it comes to Colombia. As a 30-something British / Colombian married couple and founders of Other Way Round, we’re passionate about our mission to share the REAL Colombia. Want to experience Colombia like a local?   Download our guide now ! Did we mention it’s free?

Welcome to our travel blog specializing in Colombia! We're Angelica and Samuel, a French-Colombian couple, and since 2013 we've been traveling all over the country to visit Colombia's most beautiful places. We've created this blog to help you plan your stay in Colombia: first-hand experiences, practical information, accommodation tips, itinerary ideas, and contacts for the best guides and local agencies.

Recommendation Blog Colombia

Get a quote for a tailor-made tour in colombia with a travel agency, our latest posts, colombia travel blog.

Whether you’re looking to explore its colonial cities, relax on its beaches or explore its jungles and mountains, on our travel blog you’ll find all the advice you need to plan a trip to Latin America’s most beautiful country! In our posts, we’ll share our experiences and discoveries of Colombia’s most beautiful destinations . With our help, you’ll be ready to make the most of your stay in this beautiful country and discover its many wonders! Our travel blog is here to provide you with all the practical information and tips you need to prepare your trip to Colombia !

Quote for a tailor-made tour in Colombia with local travel agencies

Encanto, all the hidden references and easter eggs in the new disney movie about colombia, rio ñambi nature reserve near pasto, one of the most beautiful in colombia, classic destinations in the spotlight, blog colombia.

Here are our classic destinations in the spotlight! Well-known places that are considered to be among Colombia’s must-see destinations. Because even though our travel blog is all about discovery and trying to get you out of the most touristy places, we make a point of talking about Colombia as a whole. And even in the most touristy places, it’s possible to take a step aside and discover another side of the country.

Visit Cartagena Travel Guide: The best things to do in Cartagena de indias

Visit guatape travel guide: best things to do in one of colombia’s most colorful villages, tayrona national park travel guide: all you need to know, cocora valley travel guide: hiking in one of the most beautiful landscape of colombia, guided tours in english, travel blog colombia.

Get ready for unforgettable experiences throughout Colombia! By choosing a guided tour in English, you’ll discover the wonders of this country accompanied by a local. So if you’re looking to be accompanied by a English-speaking guide, we’ve selected for you the best agencies for guided tours in English in Colombia’s major cities : Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena.

The best Bogota City Tours with an English-speaking guide

The best cali city tour with a local guide, the best cartagena city tours with an english-speaking local guide, our tips before you leave for colombia, best time to visit colombia: when you should travel, how to send money to colombia: comparison of the best international money transfers, colombia travel cost: how much money do you need for your trip, rent a car in colombia: our ultimate travel guide, destinations off the beaten path, the lesser-know colombia.

Here are some off-the-beaten-track destinations in Colombia that we’d like you to discover, because they deserve to be better known! If you like to get off the beaten path , this is the place to do it!

Visit San José del Guaviare travel guide: the gateway to Amazonia

Visit casanare travel guide: wildlife safari in the heart of the llanos, visit arusi travel guide: a quiet pacific village in the nuqui region, seydukwa, the cultural experience with indigenous arhuaca family of sierra nevada, colombia travel guide, travel blog info.

All blog posts by Colombian destinations to find out what to do in Cartagena, visit the Andes region, explore the Pacific coast, discover the Amazon…

Our posts classified by theme to find out where to trek, discover the most beautiful beaches, visit the most beautiful villages or major Colombian cities…

Our itinerary ideas for trips to Colombia to help you make your choices, with examples and feedback from our experiences.

All the accommodation tips from our Colombia blog. You’ll find the best hotels by region, city, price, type of accommodation, etc.

When to go, formalities, budget, what to pack, vaccinations, insurance… all the practical information you need from our travel blog.

Focus on responsible tourism , a way of traveling that’s close to our hearts and that we want to promote on our Colombia blog .

Our “Colombia” posters

To extend your trip at home.

Travel Poster

Café de Colombia

Colombia, the new tourist destination

Colombia is frequently cited as one of the world’s most beautiful travel destinations:

• Lonely Planet : 10 countries to visit in 2017
• World Travel Awards : Best South American destination 2019
• Forbes : 3rd most beautiful country in the world in 2022

That said, the development of tourism in Colombia is relatively recent , as the country is struggling to emerge from almost a century of armed conflict. The fragile peace accords of 2016 opened the door to a pacification of the country, and tourism has played, is playing and will play a special role in this process.

That’s why we’ve created this Colombia travel blog , and why you can join us in this wonderful project! With this travel blog, we want to change the country’s image and encourage tourism initiatives that contribute to building lasting peace.

In our travels, we try to meet Colombians who want to change the way tourism is done, or at least people who propose a minimum of thoughtful tourism, which is sometimes lacking in Colombian tourism projects. Thoughtful so as to be sustainable, culturally sustainable for local communities, ecologically sustainable for natural areas.

Legal information

Like our blog? You can support us! Click here to find out more My trip to Colombia © Desde 2018 con muchos 💛💙❤️ All rights reserved - Website created by nymyproduction.com

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations
• Central & South America

20 Best Places to Visit in Colombia, According to Locals and Experts

These are 20 of the best places to visit in Colombia, from colorful villages to stunning beaches.

atosan/Getty Images

A hypnotizing mix of charming coastal cities, world-class cuisine, and lush landscapes hiding immense biodiversity have made the bicoastal country of Colombia one of the most sought-after destinations in the Americas. Spending a long weekend in Cartagena or a few days in Bogotá isn't enough; even after spending months living in Medellín, I felt I barely scratched the surface of all Colombia offers.

With the help of Medellín-based Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Boris Seckovic and locals who work at some of the country's most incredible accommodations, like Bio Habitat Hotel and Casa Pestagua, we've assembled a list of the best places to visit in Colombia. Read on to find the country's most scenic trekking trails, untouched white-sand beaches, and where to get the best cup of Colombian coffee.

Meet the Expert

Boris Seckovic is a T+L A-list advisor and Colombia specialist living in Medellín.

Carolina Bernal is the general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua, luxury hotels located in Cartagena. 

Related: 25 Best Places to Visit in South America

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

Few destinations have done a better job rebranding themselves than Medellín, a vibrant metropolis whose rapid transformation has made it one of South America's most sought-after cities for travelers and digital nomads alike. Laureles was recently named the coolest neighborhood in the world , though travelers might be more familiar with El Poblado as home to some of Colombia's trendiest cafes, restaurants, and bars. Medellín's impressive public transportation network includes several cable cars, making the journey to green spaces like Arvi Park one of the best ways to enjoy breathtaking views of a city that crawls dramatically up the mountainsides of the Aburrá Valley.

Valle de Cocora

John Crux Photography/Getty Images

Don't be surprised if the Valle de Cocora (Cocora Valley) in the heart of Colombia's coffee country looks familiar. This magical area served as the real-life inspiration for Disney's “Encanto,” so you'll be sure to hear the soundtrack's most famous song as you pass through the nearby village of Salento. Despite its new claim to fame, the Valle de Cocora has long been famous for its impressive forest of wax palm trees, which tower high above the valley, growing up to 200 feet tall.

diegograndi/Getty Images

One of the best cities in South America , Colombia's bustling capital city of Bogotá is much more than just a stopover after an international flight. As soon as you arrive, take a funicular or cable car up the Cerro de Monserrate to take in the city views and get your bearings before exploring the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria. Visiting the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) is a must, as is experiencing the city's increasingly impressive culinary scene at spots like the award-winning El Chato, one of the world's best restaurants .

Stay at the luxurious W Bogotá , named by T+L readers among the best hotels in South America last year, or stop by for their beloved night brunch. The hotel's bold design is a modern interpretation of the legend of El Dorado.

Amazon Rainforest

alfnqn/Getty Images

"Colombia's slice of the Amazon rainforest isn't as well-known as the Amazon in neighboring countries, but it's almost better that way," says Seckovic, who heads Amakuna , the leading specialist for luxury travel in Colombia. "You'll see far fewer people here and have a much better chance of encountering wildlife because of it." Explore the jungle by starting in the regional capital of Leticia, hidden among forest canopy and accessible only by airplane. From there, head to one of the region's ecolodges for biologist-led excursions into the wilderness, where colorful butterflies dart above waters where pink Amazonian river dolphins play.

Santa Cruz de Mompox

Uwe-Bergwitz/Getty Images

Set along the Magdalena River that winds towards Colombia's Caribbean Coast, the colonial village of Santa Cruz de Mompox "feels like what Cartagena used to be," says Seckovic. An important stop along the river used by the Spanish to extract gold, the UNESCO-protected town still retains all its historic beauty, and an artisan filigree jewelry industry points to its golden past. First-of-their-kind cruises along the Magdalena River with AmaWaterways will kick off in 2024, offering a new way to experience the region on routes that twist through the countryside between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Cartagena is officially Colombia's worst-kept secret. Whether by cruise ship or via newly added flight routes from major U.S. cities, travelers now flock to Colombia's buzziest and most colorful hotspot year-round. A walk along age-old Spanish colonial walls at sunset with glimpses of the glimmering high-rises of Bocagrande in the distance is all you'll need to see why. 

Carolina Bernal, general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua , recommends staying in a restored mansion for a look into the city’s past. Longtime Cartagena favorite Casa San Agustin is a gem; its sister property, Casa Pestagua, is a meticulously restored and luxurious 17th-century mansion colloquially known as the most beautiful home in Cartagena.

maphke/Getty Images

Until recently, Isla Barú was mostly a destination for day trippers looking for the best beaches near Cartagena. The recent addition of the Sofitel Barú Casablanca Beach Resort changes all that, making this "island" just 45 minutes from the city an increasingly popular destination all its own. Travelers can also enjoy a beach day or book an overnight at one of the six new cabana-style bungalows at Acasi Private Beach, a luxe extension of Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua on the sand.

Eje Cafetero

Anna Haines/Travel + Leisure

Colombia's idyllic coffee-growing region is known as the Eje Cafetero , the "Coffee Axis." This verdant landscape is peppered with grand haciendas and tiny, shaded cafetales where families have long worked the land, and even passersby enjoy the aroma of the world's best coffee. Explore the countryside in a colorful, open-air Jeep Willy, visiting historic villages like Salento, Jardin, and Filandia along the way.

One of the region's coolest places to stay is Bio Habitat Hotel , where luxurious free-standing accommodations are enveloped in rainforest flora and fauna and offer views across the Andes. This eco-conscious, regenerative hotel perched amidst the forest canopy feels a world away, though it's just minutes from the city of Armenia and some of the country's finest artisan coffee farms.

Ciudad Perdida

traffic_analyzer/Getty Images

Tucked within the lush, tropical Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, Colombia's Ciudad Perdida ( or “Lost City”) is among the great ancient ruins in South America. There's no easy way to reach Ciudad Perdida; visiting this hidden settlement demands a four-day mountain trek with numerous river crossings. The payoff is well worth it: Just a few dozen intrepid travelers reach this expansive site with its terraced hillsides and circular plazas every day, meaning you'll get to enjoy it almost uninterrupted.

Only a handful of Santa Marta-based tour operators are certified to guide visitors to the site, still cared for by the descendants of the Tairona people who built the settlement centuries ago.

Guatapé and El Peñol

nicolasdecorte/Getty Images

It's impossible to miss El Peñol, a massive monolith towering many stories over the countryside of Antioquia as if dropped from the heavens by a giant. If the climb to the top doesn't take your breath away, the 360-degree views from the top certainly will. Just minutes down the road, the small town of Guatapé has its own flavor of fantasy, with a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns covering the facades of its historic buildings. These twin destinations are an easy day-trip distance from Medellín, but an overnight stay at some of the country's coolest glamping spots is even better.

Caño Cristales

Claudio Sieber/Getty Images

Known as Colombia's "river of five colors," Caño Cristales is home to unique aquatic plants that give it a liquid rainbow effect you must see to believe. When the colorful effect is at peak vibrancy between July and November, the river seems to run green, magenta, purple, maroon, and canary yellow simultaneously. The river is located in the relatively isolated Serranía de la Macarena National Park, though locals attest it's well worth the trip to see one of the world's strangest natural wonders.

Related: Visiting Caño Cristales, Colombia's Liquid Rainbow

mehdi33300/Getty Images

The village of Barichara is arguably Colombia's prettiest. Barichara is a bit further from the country's major cities than other historic gems like Villa de Leyva, so "it's stunningly beautiful, but still not too touristy," says Seckovic. The town made T+L's list of the best hidden gem destinations to visit last year and is conveniently located just a stone's throw from San Gil, the undisputed capital of adventure travel in Colombia.

Tayrona National Park

Rodrigo A. Rodriguez Fuentes/Getty Images

In Tayrona National Park, Colombia's best beaches line untouched jungles with enough endemic flora and fauna to make any eco-conscious traveler swoon. Take a skippered sailing excursion to the park directly from Santa Marta, with stops at spots like Bahia Concha and Cabo San Juan for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. More adventurous travelers can trek through the park and camp in hammocks perched directly over white sands.

Rosario Islands

“The Rosario Islands, or Islas del Rosario, are known for coral reefs and year-round diving and snorkeling opportunities," says Bernal of this perennially popular destination located off the coast of Cartagena. Hop on a speedboat in town and escape to eco-friendly boutique hotels tucked away on sandy shores, offering some serious rest and relaxation far from the crowds. It's an affordable and laid-back alternative to the built-up Caribbean islands where you would spend your days fighting for beach chairs.

Barranquilla

Roxana Charris/Long Visual Press/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Among the cities on Colombia's Caribbean Coast, Barranquilla can't compete with buzzy, beautiful Cartagena. However, for one week a year, Colombia lives and breathes to the rhythms of the Carnival of Barranquilla. Folkloric dance, music, and rich, regional food shine among a packed schedule of events including the Battle of the Flowers, the Great Troupes Parade, and the Death of Joselito Carnival, each more vibrant than the last. It's such an essential spectacle that it made the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .

Related: T+L's Guide to Colombia's Caribbean Coast

Antoine Barthelemy/Getty Images

The small city of Popayán still flies under the radar of most travelers, but it's all the better for it. Known as Colombia's "White City" for its grand historic center's whitewashed facades, this laid-back town feels like a breath of fresh air for travelers with an itinerary packed with just the country's biggest highlights. It's a great first stop on a road trip north through cities like Cali and to the haciendas and villages that make the Eje Cafetero so memorable.

Tatacoa Desert

oscar garces/Getty Images

The Tatacoa Desert is the second-largest arid environment in Colombia, after the dune-studded La Guajira at the northern tip of South America. However, Tatacoa isn't a desert at all, but a long-dry tropical forest where lush flowers bloomed a millennium ago. Its unexpected past makes fossil-hunting a perfect pastime on hikes through its dramatic red canyons. Tatacoa's remote location and ideal atmospheric conditions also make it one of South America's best destinations for stargazing .

alarico/Getty Images

Known as the capital city of salsa, Cali is the best place to visit in Colombia if you want to settle into several days of lessons to truly master these sensual steps. Zaperoco Bar is one of Cali's most famous salsa clubs, while Siboney — its name pointing to the rhythm's original Cuban roots — has long been one of Cali's salsa institutions. Fill your dance breaks by exploring the city's historic center and with day trips through the Valle del Cauca for river tubing, ziplining, and waterfall hikes.

Judith Engbers/Getty Images

Tucked away within Utría National Natural Park on a remote stretch of Colombia's Pacific Coast, the tiny beach town of Nuquí is known as one of the best places in the country for whale watching. Between July and October, humpback whales travel from Antarctica to these warmer waters to give birth to their babies in the region's protected lagoons. Whale watching is the undisputed highlight for most travelers visiting Nuquí, but adventurous travelers will love surfing near jungle-fringed shores and hiking to long-hidden rainforest waterfalls.

San Andrés and Providencia

tifonimages/Getty Images

Search for the islands of San Andrés and Providencia on a map, and you'd be forgiven for thinking they were a part of Central America. These tiny, remote islands over 450 miles from the Colombian mainland sit within a stretch of sea so azure it's called the "Sea of Seven Colors," and they are home to some of Colombia's last truly untouched beaches. Livelier San Andrés and more unspoiled Providencia are little-visited, idyllic destinations worth considering for your next unplugged, unbothered Caribbean getaway.

Related Articles

• Colombia Travel Guide
• Colombia News
• Colombia Gallery

Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.

• South America

Colombia TRAVEL GUIDE

Colombia is blessed in many ways. On the continent's northern tip, it's the only South American country that fringes both the Atlantic and Pacific. It's rich in emeralds, coffee, and oil. And because it straddles the equator, it's one of the most lush countries in terms of tropical flora and wildlife—there are more species of birds in Colombia than anywhere else in the world. You can jump on a plane and in less than an hour find yourself in a different dramatic setting—be it the cobblestone streets of a weathered colonial port, the stalls of a crowded market where Guambiano merchants still speak the tongues of their ancestors, or at the base of snow-covered peaks rising sharply from a steamy coastal plain.

Bogotá, Colombia's sprawling capital of more than 8 million people, stands at the end of a vast plateau in the eastern Andes. It's a city renewed, the proud heart of a colorful and storied nation, creative and chaotic and more fun than ever. And, it's a city that's reclaiming its place as one of the great South American capitals, with elegant shopping streets, lovely colonial neighborhoods, a flourishing restaurant scene, and chic nightclubs where stylish young Bogotanos (as inhabitants of Bogotá are called) party into the night.

Cartagena, widely revered as the most striking colonial city in South America, is an excellent destination if you want to be on the Caribbean coast. If you equate vacationing with lounging in the sun, the beaches of San Andrés and Providencia islands are Colombia's most compelling. Undeterred by the 640-km (400-mile) trip from the mainland, Colombians escape to the resort islands for weekends of swimming, sunbathing, shopping, and sipping rum at thatch-roof waterfront bars.

Most of the country's 42 million people live in Colombia's western half, where the Andes split into three cordilleras, or ridges: Oriental, Central, and Occidental. As you ascend the mighty mountains, subtropical valleys give way to rigid, fern-carpeted peaks where the ever-present mists are brightened only by votive candles placed by truck drivers at roadside shrines. West of Bogotá, quiet villages hug the hillsides en route to Medellín, former base of the eponymous drug cartel of Pablo Escobar. Despite its notorious reputation, Medellín is a pleasant, relatively safe, modern city surrounded by velvety green hills and miles of lush farmland. Further south, the high-altitude valleys with volcanic soil and ample rainfall create perfect conditions for growing coffee. Proud cafecultores have carpeted them with man-sized, red-berry-bearing bushes, the waves of green only interrupted by the occasional red-and-white hacienda or rough wooden home improbably perched on a ridge and taking in seemingly eternal vistas of cloud-topped blue hills.

FODOR'S FINEST

The best hotels in south america.

• Bosko Guatape, Colombia
• Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota Bogota, Colombia
• Hotel Casa San Agustin Cartagena, Colombia

Find a Hotel

Top destinations.

The Caribbean Coast

Colombia's sultry Caribbean Coast is linked to Bogotá only by the national flag, the milky Río Magdalena, and a couple of snaking highways....

Bogotá offers abundant contrasts: modern shopping malls and open-air markets, high-rise redbrick apartments and makeshift shanties, futuristic...

Southwest Colombia

South of Medellín lies coffee country. High-altitude tropical valleys with porous volcanic soil and an equatorial climate provide stable, warm...

A city of explorers, Cartagena was founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia on the ruins of a local Karib village. This first...

Nestled in the narrow Aburrá Valley, this northwestern city of 2 million people is the capital of Antioquia. Once known for its drug wars and...

Tucked in the fertile Valle de Cauca, Cali is a lively provincial capital and an important agricultural center, responsible for a hefty portion...

Sleepy colonial towns, many originally settled by the pre-Columbian Muiscas, punctuate the rolling green hills and mountains of Boyacá, a region...

• Santa Marta

Santa Marta lies at the foot of the snowcapped Sierra Nevada, the world's highest coastal range. The mountains are largely protected within...

The resort islands of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina lie 645 km (400 miles) northwest of the Caribbean coast—closer to Nicaragua...

Founded in 1537 by Sebastián de Belalcázar, Popayán quickly became an important administrative center of the viceroyalty of New Granada because...

For far too long, Salento's picturesque charms have been the secret stomping grounds of the well informed and adventurous. But that's changing...

• Santa Cruz de Mompox

Once the crossroads and highway for people and contraband along the mighty Magdalena River and now a colonial relic languishing in the backwaters...

Providencia

Tiny Providencia—still called Old Providence by the locals—is a diminutive, 7-km-long (5-mile-long) volcanic island surrounded by golden sands...

• San Agustín

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, but off-limits until recently due to the conflict, San Agustín preserves the relics of an advanced...

The village of Palomino seems a rather jumbled, disorganized affair, catering to a growing backpacker crowd, but along the prime beachfront...

• La Ciudad Perdida

When guaqueros (treasure hunters) stumbled upon La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) in 1975, they discovered one of the Americas' largest pre...

San Andrés and Providencia

All destinations expand all collapse all.

• Centro Internacional
• La Candelaria

Top Experiences

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Need to Know

Cartagena Is Great but You Should Also Head to This Coastal UNESCO Site

Angelique Kennedy-Chavannes

This Banned Drink Is Making a Comeback

Erika Ebsworth-Goold

Travel Tips

How I Traveled Through Colombia With Zero Spanish Speaking Skills

Arts & Culture

Mysterious Colombian Stones Were Stolen 100 Years Ago. Will They Ever Be Returned?

These Are the Places That Inspired ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’

Is This the Next Must-Visit Family Destination?

Andrea Guthmann

Recent Forum Posts

Advice on colombia itinerary, driving in colombia, 5 nights in colombia (medellin & bogota): trip notes, beach conditions in colombia (caribbean), see all posts.

• Destinations
• Award Licensing
• Advertising
• Content Licensing

• Fodor’s Travel Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use. Copyright © 2024 by MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. Fodor’s is a registered trademark of MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved.

Thank you for your interest!

Colombia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Colombia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Forget what you’ve seen on the news or on Netflix: Colombia is a gorgeous, culturally-rich country that is absolutely worth visiting.

As crime rates have decreased in recent years, tourism to Colombia has steadily increased, with more and more travelers singing the praises of this exciting, diverse destination.

There’s a little something for every kind of traveler in Colombia, from outdoor adventurers to history buffs to coffee addicts.

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered.

Colombia is home to several world-class cities that blend historic charm with modern sophistication.

Bogota, the country’s capital, is home to several top museums, a vibrant culture, and delicious food — both on the street and in top restaurants.

Cartagena is a charming Old World city by the sea, featuring a walled colonial historic district that will transport you back in time.

And Medellin , once known for its role in the drug trade, is now home to a thriving art scene with tons of awesome shops and restaurants.

Each city also makes a great home base for day trips to top attractions like Tayrona National Park and Guatape. Read on to learn more.

Colombia’s natural wonders are also absolutely worth exploring. From beautiful beaches to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, there’s much to experience in this beautiful country.

Outside of the city of Leticia, you can embark on a cruise down the Amazon River for the adventure of a lifetime, interacting with some of the area’s unique wildlife (although ideally from a safe distance!).

The country’s Pacific Coast is home to some of the best whale watching in the world from July through November.

Head to Bahia Solano to see humpback whales migrate from the South Pole – it’s a truly incredible sight.

And of course, you can’t miss the beaches of Tayrona National Park , complete with white sand, clear blue waters, and aerial hammocks perfect for relaxing.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Colombia in South America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Colombia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Colombia Map

Use this Colombia travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Amazon Travel

Looking for visit the Amazon from Colombia? Don’t miss:

Anacondas, Piranhas And Pink Dolphins, Oh My!: Exploring The Amazon Jungle From Colombia

Bogota Travel Guide

The following Bogota tourist information can help you plan the perfect trip!

Colombia Travel: Exploring Bogota By Bike

Cartagena Travel Guide

If you’re looking for a Cartagena guide for your trip, check out:

3 Amazing Day Trips From Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia Travel Tips

The following Colombia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip!

Is Colombia Safe? Everything You Need To Know!

10 Ways Colombia Stole My Heart

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Colombia

Medellin Travel Guide

Looking for a Medellin city guide ? These posts can help!

Colombia Adventure: Paragliding In Medellin (Epic!)

3 Amazing Day Trips From Medellin, Colombia

El Peñol & Guatape: The Perfect Day Trip From Medellin

Santa Marta Travel Guide

The following travel guides can help you plan an epic trip to Santa Marta in Colombia !

Experiencing The World’s Best Hostel In Santa Marta, Colombia

Tayrona National Park

Looking to experience Colombia travel and adventure ? Don’t miss Tayrona National Park!

How To Visit Tayrona National Park (& Have An Amazing Time!)

Traveling In South America

These guides share Colombia travel advice as well as tips for exploring South America in general!

14 Essential Tips For Backpacking South America

My Most Ridiculous Bus Encounters Backpacking South America

Is South America Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

21 Best Places For Solo Travel In South America

20 Best Beach Destinations For Solo Female Travelers

Best Colombia Tours

Explore local culture with a Colombian tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Full-Day Rosario Islands Including Barú, Cholon and Playa Blanca from Cartagena
• Freedom Tour of Palenque in Cartagena
• Lodotherapy in the Totumo Volcano with Visit to Galerazamba from Cartagena
• Full-Day Guatavita and Salt Cathedral from Bogota
• Full-Day Guatapé (Pueblo de Zocalos) & Piedra del Peño lfrom Medellín
• The Dark Days: Pablo Escobar and The New Medellin Tour
• Medellin ATV Tour

Colombia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Colombia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Colombia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Colombia tour. When visiting Colombia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Colombia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Colombia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Colombia .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Colombia?

One of the most popular places to visit in Colombia is the country’s Caribbean coast. Aside from gorgeous beaches, this area has tons to offer travelers looking for some sun-soaked adventures.

Cartagena , one of the largest cities in the area, sits right on the coast and blends Old World charm with the exciting vibe of a modern, beachfront city. Here you can explore one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America, full of gorgeous churches and bright-colored buildings that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Not far from the city is Tayrona National Park , where you can lounge on the idyllic beaches or trek through the lush jungle.

You can also take a day trip to El Tutomo Volcano , located just an hour from Cartegena. Take a dip in the mud baths and emerge with incredibly soft skin and hair (as well as a few new friends!). For a little extra R&R, book a mud massage or mud wash!

Located in Central Colombia, the city of Medellin has quickly become a top spot for travelers. Featuring gorgeous colonial architecture, beautiful parks, and a trendy art scene, Medellin has much to offer every kind of traveler.

One of the city’s top attractions is the Plaza Botero , a park dedicated to artist Fernando Botero, featuring 23 of the artist’s sculptures in the open air. You can see more of his work, as well as three floors worth of Colombian art, at the Museum of Antioquia .

Want to see some of the best views of Medellin? Hop on the Medellin Metrocable , a cablecar line offering amazing panoramic views of the city.

You can also take a stroll through the trendy neighborhood of El Poblado and search for the best cup of coffee in the city.

For a great day trip , head to Guatape , a small town featuring a 740-step monolith that you can climb for incredible views of the surrounding area. The town is also a top spot for outdoor adventurers, with opportunities for kayaking, hiking, swimming, and more.

Not far from Medellin is Bogota , the capital of Colombia. Featuring colorful street art and colonial architecture, the city is the perfect spot for a bike tour . This is a great way to get to know the city and its culture, as you’ll wander through colorful markets, stop to play traditional games, and get to know a bit about the country’s tumultuous history.

In the city’s historic center, La Candelaria , you’ll find attractions like the Gold Museum , an entire museum dedicated to the history, art, and pursuit of one of the most sought-after metals in the world.

At the National Museum of Colombia , you’ll find over 20,000 objects and artifacts that tell the story of the country’s rich history.

And for some incredible views of the city, climb up to the church at Monserrate , Bogota’s tallest mountain.

Q: Is Colombia expensive for tourists?

Colombia is a fairly inexpensive destination. You can easily find inexpensive accommodation, food, and transportation options throughout the country, particularly if you avoid more tourist-heavy areas.

The average traveler spends about $36 USD per day in Colombia on accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

Q: What is the best way to travel around Colombia?

Air travel is considered the best way to get around Colombia. Colombia is a fairly large country so you can save a ton of time traveling between cities by plane.

Domestic flights are also pretty inexpensive, sometimes only a little more than a bus ticket on the same route. Check out low-cost carriers like Viva Air that often offer great deals on flights; if you’re traveling from the U.S., Viva even offers flights from Miami!

Buses are also a great way to get around, particularly if you’re traveling somewhere off the beaten path, as you’ll find routes servicing almost every town in the country.

While buses are ubiquitous in Colombia, they are not always the most relaxing way to travel. Bus drivers have been known to blast music throughout the bus or crank up the sound on whatever movie they’re showing.

You also may have to get off the bus mid-journey for at a military checkpoint and could be subject to a security inspection. If you opt for the bus, don’t expect to sleep through the trip.

Q: Is Colombia safe for travel?

Colombia can get a bad rap when it comes to safety but it has come a long way in recent years. Violent crimes like muggings and kidnappings have decreased significantly and while petty theft does happen, it’s no reason to avoid the country altogether.

It’s a good idea to stay somewhere with 24-hour security so that you have someone to turn to if something goes wrong. You’ll also want to heed the usual advice for avoiding petty theft abroad — don’t show any signs of obvious wealth, keep your phone and any other valuables out of sight and in a safe place to avoid pickpockets , and always be aware of your surroundings.

This is also a place where you don’t want to go out alone at night, particularly if you’re a solo female traveler . If you’re out late, get an Uber back to your accommodation or walk back in a group.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Colombia?

One thing to know before going to Colombia is that only about 4% of the country’s population speaks English. It’s definitely a good idea to learn the language or at least a few Spanish phrases before your trip so that you can communicate with the locals.

At the very least, make sure you have a good translator app on your phone so that you’re not stuck at shops and restaurants. Learning a few phrases in the native language also shows a level of respect for the culture of the country you’re visiting. Time to get that Duoling streak back up!

Once you get to Colombia, you’ll quickly learn that cash is king in this country. Some higher-end shops and hotels will take credit cards but in most cases, you’ll need cash.

The flip side of this is that it’s not exactly safe to carry a lot of cash with you in Colombia. If there’s a lockbox or safe at your accommodation, keep some cash there and just carry as much as you need for the day.

Note, too, that more remote destinations like Tayrona National Park do not have any ATMs, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough cash for the duration of your stay before you head out.

It’s also important to look where you’re going in Colombia. This probably seems pretty obvious but it’s a particularly important tip here.

The sidewalks and roads in Colombia are known to have large cracks and holes that can make it easy to trip and fall. Move carefully (particularly at night!) and watch out for any loose bricks, uneven pavement, or cracks that could send you to the doctor.

Q: How many days should you spend in Colombia?

Most experts suggest spending about 10 days in Colombia to really maximize your time in the country.

There’s a lot to see in Colombia and a 10-day trip will allow you to spend a little time in most of the country’s top destinations while giving you ample time to travel from place to place.

Q: What is the best month to visit Colombia?

While the weather in Colombia varies from place to place, the country is widely considered a year-round destination.

December through March is considered Colombia’s high season, with much of the country experiencing pleasant, sunny weather.

December and January are the country’s busiest months for tourism, so if you’re planning on visiting during these months be sure to book your travel and accommodations far in advance.

September through November is technically Colombia’s low season, but the weather is generally pretty dry. These months are definitely worth considering if you want to avoid the crowds and save a little money on travel expenses.

Q: Do I need a Colombia travel visa?

Travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, European Union, and Australia do not need a visa to enter Colombia. Travelers from most South American nations including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela simply need a national ID to enter the country and can leave their passports at home.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Colombia International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Colombia Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Colombia.

Q: Where is Colombia?

Colombia is located in northwestern South America. It shares borders with Panama (northwest), Venezuela and Brazil (east), and Peru and Ecuador (south).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Colombia?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are typically accepted in big cities and tourist areas. That being said, Colombia is a country where many places are cash-only, so make sure to always have some on you.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Colombia?

The tap water is generally safe to drink in most places in Colombia as long as your destination isn’t too remote. That being said, it’s recommended to check with your hotel to be sure.

Q: What is the local currency in Colombia?

The local currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso.

What would you add to this Colombia travel guide?

Enjoyed this ultimate Colombia travel guide? Pin it for later!

US Edition Change

• US election 2024
• US Politics
• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Rugby Union
• Sports Videos
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Lifestyle Videos
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Inspiration
• City Guides
• Sustainable Travel
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Home & Garden
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Climate 100
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Electric vehicles
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.  

Colombia travel guide: Everything to know before you go

Colombia’s expansive beauty and diversity means that there’s a region to suit every preference – pair that with a climate that is welcoming year-round and you’ve got an extremely tempting country to explore, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Support truly independent journalism

Find out more close.

Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth. Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts. Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.

Louise Thomas

Colombia is alive and beating, whether it’s the thumps of reggaeton or the rhythms of cumbia. Not just a proudly musical nation, it is also the only country in South America to enjoy both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines and has some of the most spectacular biodiversity in the world thanks to its multiple altitudes, biomes and terrains.

The immensity of Colombia’s nature, from Andean peaks to silky deserts and sapphire seas, is matched only by the warmth, vibrance and resilience of its people. Within moments of arriving, you’ll likely encounter a friendly smile, a greeting or some enthusiastic chit-chat with a local.

Whether it’s winding mountain roads and peaceful pueblos , lively cosmopolitan life or blissed-out beaches , Colombia delivers on all fronts.

Read more on South America travel :

• Bogota city guide: Where to stay, eat, drink and shop in Colombia’s trendy capital
• Exploring the largest swathe of protected rainforest in South America
• Why Uruguay is South America’s most underrated stop

Travel restrictions and entry requirements

All visitors have to show an onward or return ticket valid within the 90-day period allowed for entry into Colombia as a tourist. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive.

If you’re fully vaccinated against Covid, you can enter Colombia without taking any kind of test for the virus. At least 14 days must have passed since your second dose of the vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated. For unvaccinated travellers or those who received their second dose in fewer than 14 days before going to Colombia, you must show a negative PCR or antigen test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding your flight. Children aged 17 and under don’t need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test to enter.

Masks are still advised when in hospitals, health clinics, airports and on flights.

Best time to go

Colombia has a whole range of climates and altitudes so you can enjoy a visit at any time of year. That being said, December to March is the high season, when it’s warmest and sunniest in most places. There are also some great events that take place during these months, such as the Barranquilla Carnival, that takes place the weekend before Ash Wednesday every year (either February or March). The Hay Festival also runs in Cartagena, Medellín and the Andean town of Jericó at the end of January every year and is great for hearing from authors, artists, and journalists from South America and beyond. June to September are popular months to visit because it’s also a sunnier period of the year, and the spectacular Medellín Flower Festival happens at the start of August.

Top regions and cities

Colombia’s capital is definitely a place that grows on you. At 2,600m, it’s an Andean city surrounded by pretty peaks and packed with bustling streets. La Candelaria is the picturesque old town and has incredible museums, such as the Botero Museum, showcasing the engaging works of famous Colombian artist, Fernando Botero. A trip up to the Monserrate mountain in a giant cable car is the best way to enjoy views over the city. The trendy Chapinero neighbourhood further north is an ideal area for bar hopping and sampling Colombia’s tasty cuisine.

Home to some of Colombia’s best nightlife but also blessed with laid-back cafes, Medellín is known as the City of Eternal Spring and, as the name suggests, offers a year-round temperate climate. The energetic Comuna 13 neighbourhood demonstrates how art and culture have helped revive a once-dangerous area. Paisas (the people from Medellín) are extremely proud of their city; particularly the metro system that includes a network of cable cars to better connect neighbourhoods higher up in the mountains (and provide some of the best views). The Poblado area is the best for eating, sipping on signature cocktails and dancing the night away.

Caribbean coast

Almost too hot to handle but worth it for the rhythms and flavours, the Caribbean coast is home to the colours and architecture of Cartagena’s walled historic centre, as well as dazzling ocean and vibrant beach clubs like Blue Apple Beach on Tierra Bomba island, just a short boat ride away. Further along the coast is the pretty seafront city of Santa Marta and the Tayrona National Park, a beautiful setting for hiking and where sea meets jungle.

Coffee region

Apart from the deliciousness of sampling Colombia’s famed arabica beans, the coffee region is a worth visiting for its sheer mountainous beauty. There are several colourful pueblos (villages), with the most impressive being Salento and Filandia. One of the most famous hiking trails in the country is in the Cocora Valley, covered in the wax palm trees that soar hundreds of feet over the verdant valley and can live for up to 200 years.

Best under-the-radar destinations

The pristine landscapes of Boyacá are the source of 90 per cent of the world’s emeralds; fittingly, the many peaks and fields of the region are a vibrant emerald green. The slopes of the cocoa farm Finca San Luis , in the village of San Pablo de Borbur, offer a spectacular view over the surrounding mountains and river, as well as tours to learn about the farm’s bean-to-bar chocolate-making process and visits nearby emerald mines. Villa de Leyva is a beautiful historic town, home to whitewashed buildings and cobblestoned streets.

Flourishing Chocó is a region on Colombia’s Pacific coast that is recognised as a biodiversity hotspot, cradling around 10,000 plant species, 600 bird species and 235 species of mammals. Pacific Ocean waves are ideal for surfing and visitors can also watch whales migrating and newborn turtles hatching in this magnificent, predominantly Afro-Colombian region.

The Santander region is perhaps Colombia’s best road-trip destination. Setting out from the pleasant city of Bucaramanga, the road leads to the spectacular Chicamocha Canyon before getting to the town of San Gil, a hive of adventure sports from whitewater rafting to paragliding and ziplining. The trip then leads to Barichara, often described as Colombia’s most beautiful town, where rust-coloured soil frames the streets’ cobbles. Artisan craft abounds here, whether it’s paper made from pineapple or bags made from fique , a pretty plant belonging to the agave family.

Best things to do

Bar hopping in medellín.

Home to internationally renowned reggaeton artists like Karol G, Maluma and J Balvin, Medellín has a lively music and bar scene. Whether you’re after a rum and coke, a fancy cocktail, just a beer or bottle of aguardiente (licorice-flavoured Colombian liquor) shared between friends, the many bars in El Poblado and along La 70 street will show you a good time.

Attending Barranquilla Carnival

An ecstatic and electric celebration with energy to rival Rio , the Barranquilla Carnival is an incredible way to experience the folklore and traditions that span the country’s rich and diverse culture.

Salsa dancing in Cali

Known as the salsa capital of the world, tropical Cali is a thriving city showcasing the pulse of Colombian rhythm. The historic, picturesque neighbourhood of San Antonio and its sloping park is home to some of the best salsa schools in the country. If you’d like to turn two left feet into something altogether more fluid, sign up for classes here before showing off your newly polished moves at one of the city’s many salsa clubs.

Visiting a traditional finca

Whether it’s to explore the coffee or cocoa-making process or just to relax surrounded by banana trees and the chirps of Colombia’s diverse bird population, visiting a finca (which means farm or estate) is a must. Top fincas to see for yourself include La Nohelia in Jericó, Finca San Luis in Boyacá and Hacienda El Roble in Santander.

Getting around

Buses are essentially what connects Colombia, but bear in mind that some distances are long and winding. The buses are generally comfortable and budget-friendly; Colombia also has some of the most scenic bus routes you’ll ever experience. Generally, the easiest option is to head to the city’s bus station and people there will happily provide information about which company is best to get you to your next destination.

Uber, plus other apps like Cabify, DiDi or Picap (think Uber but on the back of a motorbike), work well for getting around cities. More rural areas are served by smaller buses and colectivos (this can sometimes mean the back of a truck), which are a particularly enjoyable way to get around.

There are plenty of well-priced domestic flights between most cities, with airlines including Avianca, LATAM, Wingo and Viva Air. Bogotá and Medellín are the most connected cities when it comes to flights to other parts of the country.

How to get there

There are direct flights from London to Bogotá with Avianca, which are convenient but tend to be pricier. Otherwise, there are indirect flights via Europe with airlines, including Air Europa, Air France and KLM, that fly to Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena and Cali; Air Europa often has some of the best value air fares.

Money-saving tips

Most cafes and restaurants offer a menu del día (set menu) for lunch that typically comprises a soup, fresh fruit juice and a main dish of rice, salad, plantain and a choice of protein, all for the equivalent of a few pounds.

By visiting out of high season (opt for April, May, October or November), you can save a great deal on accommodation, and will probably have more options to choose from.

Masaya and Viajero are reasonably-priced, sociable and stylish hostel chains with outposts in various parts of the country. They both offer a range of options, from dorms to private rooms.

What’s the weather like?

It depends on the region you’re visiting; Colombia is extremely diverse. Many places are tropical and extremely hot (for example, the Caribbean coast, the Amazon region, Chocó) and other places at higher altitudes are usually sunny and temperate in the day but get chillier at night (such as Bogotá, Villa de Leyva in Boyacá). Medellín is known for its pleasantly mild climate all year round.

What time zone is it in?

Colombia Standard Time, GMT-5.

What currency do I need?

Colombian pesos (COP). Plenty of places take card payments but make sure to have enough money on you for day-to-day spending as many things can only be paid for in cash (like buses if you’re not buying a ticket at a big bus station, beauty salon treatments, street food, and taxis).

What language is spoken?

Spanish. There are also dozens of Indigenous languages spoken which vary by region but you can almost always get by with Spanish or an English-speaking guide.

Read more on winter sun hotels

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » South America » Colombia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Colombia Travel Guide (2024 Edition)

After travelling in most of the South American countries, let me tell you why I think you should put Colombia on your backpackers’ wishlist.

With chilled surfing beaches, enchanting jungles, fruits you’ve never seen before, bustling cities, lost cities, crazed parties, and a culture full of music, color, and food, are enough reasons to make this country a MUST GO. Far from that dangerous image portrayed by the media, Colombia is today one of the most flourishing countries in South America that receives tourism and welcomes travelers with open arms, a big smile, and for me, the best coffee in the world .

The first feeling when I got there was a bit chaotic. However, I felt comfortable quickly. Locals, in general, are extremely friendly, and when I needed help there was always someone willing. Backpacking in Colombia is, without a doubt, an amazing experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Yes, it can be challenging but it’s so rewarding!

This backpacking Colombia travel guide will teach you the ropes for an amazing backpacking trip – the cheapest way possible. You’ll get meaningful travel tips, from my own experience, in this natural jewel.

Anticipation is the key when booking places, and food… well that’s cheap everywhere.

Vamos pa’ Colombia parce!  Bien pueda! 

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in Colombia

Colombia is a South American country that is rich in ecological and cultural diversity. It is all at once a giant party and adventure central, and can also be mellow and peaceful, once you get away from all of the noise. The big cities are famous for their nightlife, all-night parties, and of course, dancing. Each city has its own unique flavor, colorful buildings, and colonial architecture.

The coast is brimming with beautiful post-card beaches and the attractive locals to match. The coastal areas have plenty of awesome places to go surfing or diving too.

The mountainous, humid, super green interior is a whole other world of Colombia. Think dense jungles, rivers, lost ancient cities, and remote indigenous communities. No matter what your idea of a good time is, there is something interesting and fun to get into around every corner. Modern-day Colombia is a place thriving after decades of trauma inflicted by narco-traffickers, guerrilla activity, corruption and general political instability.

Backpacking in Colombia is one hell of an adventure. Now let us take a look at some of the best Colombia backpacking itineraries to help you get an idea of where to go and what to do in this truly special country.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Colombia

Get information on Colombia travel itineraries and backpacking routes, maps, travel tips, safety, things to do, and much more. Most of all you will walk away with all the inspiration you need to make the most of your trip whilst traveling in Colombia on a budget.

Backpacking Colombia 2 Week Itinerary #1: The Caribbean Side of Colombia

If you’ve only got two weeks, there’s no point rushing. Pick a region and see it properly. I’d suggest the Caribbean side of Colombia, for obvious reasons.

Start your trip in Cartagena , perhaps fresh off the boat? After a few days, head to Santa Marta , the jump-off point for  Minca – a charming mountain town – and the stunning Tayrona National Park. 

Get a bit off the beaten path, and head east to Cabo de la Vela  (where the desert meets the sea) and Punta Galinas,  where you can feast on fresh seafood amongst the Caribbean and sand dunes.

Doubling back to Cartagena , head to nearby Playa Blanca and  Tolú (mangrove) before heading to  Islas de San Bernardo (white-sanded islands).

Have an extra week? You can catch a flight to the Caribbean Islands of Providencia and San Andrés. Have two extra weeks? Well, check out the 4-week itinerary below…

Backpacking Colombia 4 Week Itinerary #2: Colombia’s Highlights

Fly into Bogota , Colombia’s capital and enjoy the amazing food and nightlife. Stay a night or two, you may as well. Then, head over to the picturesque town of Barichara .

After that, you should take the long bus to San Gil , an adventurer’s paradise and one of my favourite places in Colombia. Here you can kayak, paraglide, and bungee jump!

Next, get the bus to Santa Marta . It’s not my fav place in the world, but you should stay the night and use it as your base for cooler places like Minca , Tayrona National Park and other amazing Caribbean destinations. Oh, and make sure to arrange a multi-day trek to  Ciudad Perdida.

Afterwards, pitch up at postcard-perfect Cartagena for a while before heading south to  Medellín;  once known as a dangerous city, it’s now a trendy and safe nomad haven.

Make sure to spend a good few days in Medellín. I’d say a minimum of three days is needed here… especially if you’re gonna party…

Next, head to Jardin for just a day or two before visiting Valle de Cocora , just outside Salento . Go to a coffee finca  (farm)   and stock up on some coffee.

Last but not least, continue south to Cali , world famous for their salsa joints. Make sure to take a class! It’s one of the best memories of my Colombian adventure. You can easily get back to Bogota from Cali, which ends the perfect round trip.

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Now that we’ve covered some of the best travel itineraries for backpacking Colombia, let’s jump in and explore some of the top places to visit in Colombia on your adventure…

Backpacking Bogota

Major cities have a special vibe that makes them unique, and Bogota is definitely one of those. There is a huge amount to do here; I highly recommend going on the graffiti tour and doing a day trip to explore the truly spectacular Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira.

If you love museums, like I do, then the Gold Museum ( Museo del Oro ) is a must. After that, Zona Rosa is a great place to go for drinks in the evening.

Bogota sometimes gets a bad rap amongst Colombian backpackers on account of its’ rainy climate and gritty atmosphere. However, I love it and highly recommend exploring winding streets, doing some of the free walking tours ( grab an umbrella just in case ), and checking some of the bars of La Candelaria before heading to Baum for some Techno. There, I promise you, you are going to have so much fun and dance all night.

Backpacking Medellín

My favourite place in all of Colombia, and for sure on my top 5 cities in Latin America, Medellín packs a lot of punch and is one of the best places to live if you’re a digital nomad in need of a break. You can get here with any of the daily and direct flights from Bogota in just about an hour. The buses can be slow and take between 10 to 11 hours.

The very touristy El Poblado area is where most backpackers base themselves, but I far preferred the quieter Envigado. Be sure to go on the Real City walking tour, officially the best walking tour I have ever been on.

Guatapé is a popular day trip from the city but the real highlights of Medellin are simply wandering around, enjoying a cerveza in a pool hall, a soul-releasing, free salsa lesson, or chilling out in one of the parks.

If you are a foodie, this city has some Colombian street food . Arepas, empanadas, and salchipapa are impeccible.

Medellin has a tarnished reputation on account of Pablo Escobar. Think carefully about whether you want to go on a tour to find out more about the history of the cartel.

You have to check out Comuna 13 and the unique transformation that art has made into this previously devastated neighbourhood. They’ve successfully turned around from violent narcotraffic times, with a grand flare.

Lots of graffiti, music, art, dance groups improvising and showing their movements, and small cafes with amazing views of the neighbourhood. You witness the power of art in changing the environment of an entire community: a great example of resilience in the country and Latin America.

If you want to backpack Medellin and have a little more budget to work with, an aerial helicopter tour of Medellin is a unique experience. The prices vary depending on group size, but I recommend Fly Colombia City Tours .

Expect to pay around $80 USD per person for a 15-minute / 40km flight. The views are exceptionally stunning – plus who doesn’t want to go for a ride in a helicopter at least once, right? Special thanks to Luisa from Fly Colombia City Tours for helping us organize this flight!

If you can get a group of 5-6 people together from your hostel, you can get a better per person price (maximum 6 people in the helicopter). Book in advance and let Fly Colombia City Tours know the Broke Backpacker sent you! Ask for a flight around sunset time for the best photography light!

Backpacking Cartagena

The Old Town is well worth visiting and there are some great beaches nearby like (the very popular) Playa Blanca. This town has no shortage of tourists, hustlers, and prostitutes, all of which are unfortunate aspects of traveling here.

Venturing beyond the Old Town and main touristy areas will offer a rewarding glimpse of real Cartagena. Backpackers more accustomed to off the beaten path destinations are going to hate Cartagena.

Cartagena’s safety might be a bit questionable, so be careful. I heard countless stories of backpackers being forced to buy cocaine at extreme prices after they were given a “free” sample. Like literally they were marched to the ATM and forced to pull out millions of pesos, otherwise, the five angry young men who were pretending to be their friend just minutes before would beat them to a pulp. Don’t be that backpacker. Instead, go scuba diving.

For scuba diving, hit up the Rosario Islands. I was able to go scuba diving with a fantastic dive shop called Diving Planet . Their bi-lingual guides are professional and the day or overnight dive trips they offer include van transport and boat transfer, lunch, and all the scuba equipment. The Rosario Islands are one of the best places in Colombia for scuba diving and have many affordable accommodations , so don’t miss out!

If you are tired of the standard rice, beans, and plantains and want to try the best falafel in Colombia, go to Novo Kebab.

Backpacking Santa Marta

There is almost nothing in Santa Marta to get particularly excited about; however, there are lots of truly amazing places nearby. It’s a hub for Northern Colombia but I recommend basing yourself in nearby Taganga. Personally, I liked this city a lot simply because it has a real backpacker and expat scene and none of the stupid shit you find in Cartagena.

Plus, there are plenty of great places to stay in Santa Marta too.

Also, this is the gateway for tours and excursions to the Tayrona National Park, some pretty epic beaches, and the famous excursions to the archaeological site Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna) located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Be aware of the high temperatures – these places can get extremely hot during the midday.

Santa Martas Hostels are the best option for a few nights. For a cheap place to stay in town with a fun party scene (and a pool), I recommend staying at Drop Bear Hostel.

If you want to go for a kick-ass motorcycle adventure into the mountains or around the coast, hit up my friends at Adrenaline Addicts (they share the building space with Drop Bear Hostel).

Backpacking Taganga

Love it or hate it, Taganga has something for everyone. This is a beachside party town famous for its drug scene but there is a huge amount more to Taganga than at first meets the eye.

Consider staying in Casa Moringa for a truly unique experience; living it up in a mansion overlooking the sea. This small town is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to scuba dive so if that’s your bag, you’ve come to the right place. Be sure to grab a bite to eat in the incredible Baba Ganoush restaurant.

Backpacking Tayrona National Park

An easy hop from Taganga, Tayrona National Park is a truly stunning oasis of pristine beaches backing onto untamed jungle. Probably with some of the most beautiful beaches on the Caribbean coast, in my opinion.

In a day you can hike through the tropical forest, see some of the local flora and fauna, and swim in waters full of life. You can sleep in the national park, but you must reserve in advance, or you can do the tour on the day.

Yes, you’ll find mosquitos, high temperatures during midday, and probably hard walking paths at some point, if it rained the day before. But believe me, this is one of those places that is worth visiting in Colombia.

Hiking Ciudad Perdida

The trek to the Lost City takes 5 days and it’s an amazing experience. You will cross raging rivers, slide down muddy banks, and bathe in crystal-clear pools on your way to the city above the clouds. The city itself is amazing and receives very few visitors; go now before the word gets out.

It can be a demanding experience. Consider your physical and mental state when deciding when and how to do this tour. And my personal advice would be to get some good hiking boots and enough insect repellent.

Backpacking Minca

Just a couple of hours away from Taganga, the cool hills of Minca are perfect for backpackers wanting a bit of respite or to go hiking in the jungle. You can get some cheap local transportation and in 30 minutes you can get to this small town nestled in nature.

Top things to do in Minca include yoga, motorbike adventures, hiking, and of course a visit to the legendary waterfalls in the area. Avoid Pozo Azul, as it is always too busy and commercialized to be enjoyable. I personally enjoyed Marinka Falls, even though it was quite crowded.

In terms of organized activities in Minca, there are many operators to choose from. I recommend going with our friends at Fototrails for awesome photography, hiking, and cultural day trips.

Natasha and her husband run eco and cultural adventures showing the real side of Minca and the Sierra Nevada. They take guests on backtrails and off-road adventures for the treks so people can experience a unique and solo hiking experience away from the crowds. Broke Backpacker readers can get 5% off of any of the activities they offer by mentioning this article!

Another cool part about what Fototrails does: they work with local families and farms to offer locals a sustainable income and take groups of 6 or less for minimum impact on the environment. If you are looking for an affordable place to crash, their small guesthouse is called Casa Iguana (located by the health centre). Check them out!

I also highly recommend staying at Casa Elemento, book in advance. Bring insect repellent as I got destroyed by sandflies in Minca! If Casa Elemento isn’t your thing, there are many other awesome hostels in Minca that offer a super comfy bed and a place to rest your head.

Backpacking San Gil

From the Minca area, you can take a bus to San Gil. The bus takes around twelve hours, yes I know a bit too much , so I recommend travelling at night. When you get there, you will feel the change of air, fewer tourists, and lots of nature to discover and enjoy. You can easily spend a couple of days in San Gil and be sure to go paragliding over the incredible Chicamocha Canyon.

San Gil is the adventure capital of Colombia; if you’re after rafting, caving, or trekking this is the place to go. Be sure to grab a brownie from Gringo Mikes – they are amazing.

Backpacking Barichara

One hour outside of San Gil lies the picture perfect town of Barichara with it’s cobbled streets, fancy restaurants and great day hikes. It’s well worth spending a night.

Backpacking Salento and the Coffee Region

A firm favourite with backpackers, Salento is a great place to spend a few days unwinding, trekking, sipping coffee, and resting your head in comfy and cute Salento hostels . I highly recommend exploring the Cocora Valley on a day-hike. La Serrana is a great place to base yourself; check out their awesome safari tents!

Filandia is another town you should check. There are not many local attractions, but you should check El Mirador a 35-metre tower with 360° views of the area. And after that head to the main square to have a nice local coffee and chill while watching and hearing the bustling streets full of the birds singing at dusk, children playing after school and adults talking and laughing while having their deserved beer after a long day at the coffee plantations.

Depending on where you are, I would suggest checking some direct flights if you are up in the north or a local bus if you are somewhere in the area, but you should get here 100%.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Colombia

Colombia is a country packed with hidden gems. Some of the places on Colombia’s Pacific coast, mountains, and jungles are difficult to reach. Anytime a place has difficult access, it is a sign that adventure awaits!

Far fewer people make the effort to get out and really explore. Depending on what you like to do, you should have no problem leaving the Gringo Trail behind in search of some truly rewarding experiences. There is so much awesomeness to get into whilst backpacking Colombia, that your adventure is up to you and your motivation to put yourself out there. Read on for helpful information regarding trekking, diving, and surfing in Colombia later in this article.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

10 Top Things to Do in Colombia

If you’ve been on a backpacking trip through Colombia before, you’ll know there are ALWAYS more awesome things to do. It’s a big country, with a lot of variety on offer. But here are some things I’ll recommend, especially for you. 😉

1. Take a graffiti tour

Get to know the Colombians through some of the country’s best street art. Their insane street art reflects the sorrows, joys, passions, and concerns of these people – strongly connected to nature and its effervescent way of being.

One of my favorite places is Comuna 13 in Medellin. Once, the most dangerous neighborhood in the world is, today, a reflection of how art can change – not only the image of a neighborhood but also the lives of those who live there.

I recommend taking a guided tour through Comuna 13 since you’ll be able to have some unique insights.  Always good to remember, respect the locals and collaborate with art whenever you can!

2. Trek to the Lost City

The amazing 5-day trek to Ciudad Perdida takes you to some of the most beautiful, sweaty, and far reaches of Colombia. You’ll explore a national cultural treasure from another time.

Along the way, you’ll get to walk through sacred ground of the native people and observe birds, animals, plants, flowers, and trees, unique ONLY to this corner of the world. You will also cross some native villages, which you might be able to greet and get to know them.

And to be honest, this hike was one of the most difficult of my life. I was so happy to visit the Lost City with the support of a guided tour where experienced people know what’s coming ahead. It’s hard to prepare yourself for this combination of heat, humidity, and altitude in this national park.

Though that doesn’t mean to say you won’t be able to do it! If you’re in a pretty good physical condition, the rest is mostly mind over matter.

3. Drink coffee in Salento

Colombia’s famed coffee region has some of the best brews in South America. The region is large but well distributed enough to visit in a week, hopping from town to town.

Chill people in a village vibe, incredible landscapes, people open to chatting, and probably one of the best coffees I’ve ever tried in my life. When I was there I had the opportunity to try an organic coffee from a local farm worked by local women. And I can tell you that the difference is impressive. Flavors, smells, body, and acidity are so evident that it makes you wonder if what you have been drinking before is really coffee.

Visiting a traditional coffee farm is the best way to learn about the process of producing it, the people who carry it out, and even taste the house’s coffee. It’s one of those unique experiences that remains etched in my memory.

4. Hike the Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is home to some of the best natural scenery in the country and the tallest palm trees in the world. The valley is easily accessed from Salento and from this town, you can take a day tour to explore Cocora Valley and also visit a specialized coffee farm.

This gigantic valley is full of vegetation, an incredible forest, thousands of national trees, the wax palms of Quindío, as well as a great diversity of flora and fauna.

I warn you, mosquitoes are not very forgiving. Be prepared and bring insect repellent , comfortable shoes, and plenty of water.

5. Visit an indigenous community

Get to know what traditional life is like for people living the way they have been for centuries. It’s an amazingly eye-opening experience that few get to see. You can support their amazing lifestyle by buying local handicrafts and artisanal pieces.

Their culture is a very important part of their identity and they should always be treated with respect. Remember these people are not exhibits in a museum.

6. Hire a motorbike and discover hidden nature beauties

Hire a motorbike and explore some of Colombia’s gorgeous countryside. The routes in Colombia are in * fairly * good condition to explore by motorbike (if you’re a confident rider!).

This gives you more than one option to get to a place, you can take alternate routes if you like adventure experiences, and you can stop in places that public transportation could never. 

Some of my best memories are meeting and connecting with local people, and let me tell you that the motorbike was the way to get to those places and people.

7. Go scuba diving

If you love to dive, Colombia’s north coast has some world-class dive sites. It is also possible to obtain your PADI open water diving certificate if you don’t have one. You can obtain your certification with Diving Planet based in Cartagena.

8. Go head-to-head in the bars

As Ernest Hemingway once said, “If you want to know about a culture, spend a night in its bars.” Pool halls and bars are a big part of Colombian culture.

I had so much fun playing Tejo in Los Amigos, Salento. Tejo is kind of like cornhole but much more… explosive!

9. Visit the Tayrona National Natural Park

This area of Colombia’s Caribbean coast is famous for its palm-fringed coves, coastal lagoons, tropical forests, and rich biodiversity. It’s perfect for a day trip or organize yourself to go camping and spend a few nights in this incredible natural paradise.

If you like adventure and getting into nature, you can find ruins of an archaeological complex built by the Tayrona civilization that is accessed through forest roads. Be prepared for this type of visit. Water supply, insect repellent, hat, and solid hiking boots.

10. Get your dancing shoes on

Stay until nightfall and discover the Colombian nightlife. As well as being the salsa capital, cumbia music is worth following too.

If you don’t know how to dance you will surely learn from any Colombian. Music, dancing, and drinking are part of their culture.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacker Accommodation in Colombia

Accommodation costs vary across the country with Medellin and Cali being some of the most expensive places to stay. In general, the good places fill up fast so you will want to try and book in advance. It’s possible to get a dorm bed for around $12 but a double room will often cost just $25 so if there’s two of you, you can have a private room most of the time for no additional cost. Colombia’s eco-tourism scene is growing rapidly, so you’ll also find plenty of sustainable accommodation options throughout the country.

If you want to save money on accommodation, make sure you pack your camping hammock , especially if you’ll be trekking or hiking through the jungle.

And as a quick insider tip: If you want to see all – and we mean ALL – hostel options in Colombia, be sure to check out BOOKING.COM . You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

The Best Places To Stay in Colombia

Some unique experiences in colombia.

From surfing and trekking to paragliding and caving, Colombia is an adventure playground. You can do some activities really cheap but it’s worth haggling; you can often get 10% off what appears to be a fixed price. Colombia is also home to some of the best diving in the world… well, OK, some of the cheapest places to learn to dive in the world.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Colombia

Colombia is home to some fine trekking opportunities. From multi-day hikes to the Lost City to exploring river valleys and stunning misty mountains, there are many options at your fingertips. If you love getting out in nature as much as I do, Colombia will not disappoint. There are numerous Colombia national parks and reserves to choose from. For longer treks, it is easy to find a guide. Here are a few of the best treks in Colombia to get you stoked on some hiking!

Lost City Trek : This hike through the Colombian jungle will certainly be a highlight of your backpacking trip.

Cocora Valley : Some of the best day hikes in Colombia can be found in a region famous for its coffee and stunning scenery.

Sierra Nevada de Cocuy : Snow in Colombia? Here you can find peaks are as high as 5,330 metres above sea level. You have you your own gear and a good sleeping bag , you can probably do the hike without a guide.

Chingaza National Park : This park north of Bogota has some fantastic treks to do in the mountains. Some of Colombia’s most spectacular mountain views can be had here!

Chicamocha Canyon: At Chicamocha there is a ridge hike that can be undertaken as a day trip, finishing in a small colonial village. This hike is a must if you’re in the area.

Los Nevados National Park:  This area of Colombia truly has it all. Experience some of the most diverse landscapes in the whole country. A trek here will certainly get you off of the beaten path.

Tatacoa Desert: Desert in Colombia? Go see it for yourself! Hike, bike, and explore this unique part of the normally quite tropical Colombia. Check out this great article for more information about what to do in Tatacoa.

Scuba Diving in Colombia

Love Scuba diving? Me too. Colombia has tons of places to take on some epic dives. Providencia and Santa Catalina, a smaller island to the north, is home to the  third largest coral reef barrier on earth , and includes over 40 dive sites.

If Providencia is the accessible best of Colombian diving, Malpelo is the harder to reach version: a jagged rock in the Colombian Pacific, it can only be reached by boat, and divers can only visit here as part of an organized trip on a dive boat. It’s worth the time and money for sure; Malpelo is one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks, including hammerheads, whale, and the rare sun ray shark. People have reported schools of up to 500 sharks around Malpelo. That’s right. 500.

Another Pacific diving spot, Gorgona, is a rugged island, formerly used as a prison, which now serves as a nature reserve and a prime breeding area for humpback whales.

As mentioned, the Rosario Islands offer good diving that is relativley accessible compared to some of the other destinations this list.

Scuba Dive Colombia on a Liveaboard Trip

There are so many places worth diving in Colombia, I highly recommend joining a Liveaboard trip in Colombia if you can swing it. You get to wake up on a boat every morning and explore the wonders of the underwater world in Colombian seas…

If you are a serious scuba diver looking to check out some of Colombia’s best and most remote dive sites, Liveaboard is your ticket to paradise in that regard.

Scuba dive by day, chill on the boat by night, and of course eat tasty food along the way.

Diving journeys don’t get any better than this.

Surfing in Colombia

Another favorite past time for backpackers and locals a like in Colombia is surfing. Colombia has some amazing surfing beaches on both its Northern Caribbean Coast and its Western Pacific Coast. Surfing in Columbia is gaining popularity as this beautiful country opens it’s doors to the rest of the word. Palomino is a great spot, so check out the best hostels in Palomino before you go!

The surfing beaches on the Caribbean coast are much easier to access, more backpacker oriented, and tend to be a bit calmer. The Caribbean beaches are the best if you are a beginner learning how to surf, or you just want to get out and catch a few waves.

The Pacific Coast, while much harder to get to, has some of the best surfing in South America. The beaches around  Nuqui  are the best in Colombia and are an adventure lovers dream.

Joining an Organized Tour in Colombia

For most countries, Colombia included, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers you can opt to join an organized tour. Joining a tour is a great way to see a majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Colombia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Check out some of their awesome itineraries for Colombia here…

Colombia Backpacking Costs

This is, perhaps, one of the cheapest countries you can find in South America. Yes, it’s even cheaper than in some Southeast Asian countries. However, travel costs vary when backpacking in Colombia – depending on how you do it. If you’re a budget backpacker, sleeping in a dorm bed, hitchhiking, eating street food, and catching local public transport brings down your travel costs per day considerably.

Prices vary depending on the time of year. In high season, you can expect to pay a little more than in the low, rainy season. The difference is minimal, but you will have to deal with shortages of accommodations.

In touristy areas like Cartagena and places near the Caribbean coast, you will be paying 3 times more than in places with less international tourism. The big cities will give you a greater range to play with.

Couchsurfing and camping are the best ways to make it on a budget. For a single tent, you can expect to pay between $5 and $7 dollars.

For tight-budget travellers, cheap food is everywhere. You can find the plato del dia for $2 – $3 dollars, and believe me, that’s enough food for all day.

Buses are cheap. But if you are thinking of crossing the country, consider domestic flights with budget airlines. You will be able to find them at reasonable prices, saving you time and other expenses of traveling by land.

If you are modest and conscious, backpacking Colombia on a budget can be done for $15 USD per day or less. But if you like tours and unique experiences you can easily hit $50 USD per day.

So budget travel in Colombia is more possible than ever! Your money will go far here and you can help out a lot of people with your tourism.

A Daily Budget For Colombia

Although Colombia is cheaper than other Latin American countries, it’s so easy to blow your budget. So keep track of your spending!

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend on your backpacking Colombia adventure…

Money in Colombia

The local currency in Colombia is the peso known as COP. Find out how much your money is worth today by using the up-to-date converter below.

I encourage you not to bring a large amount of money. Get a good exchange rate with your local bank and enough money for the first days. The rates offered by airports are the least favourable. If you didn’t get pesos before coming, then change the minimum amount possible to cover your transport into the city. From there, it’s easy to find currency exchange houses. Expect less of what I just mentioned as the current currency conversion.

To exchange large amounts of money, the best option is the local bank Bancolombia (physical branch). Be prepared to go early and wait in line.

I recommend bringing a fee-free debit card or credit card. You can use them in big cities but not that much in small towns, so it’s good to plan ahead. Bancolombia’s ATM allows you to withdraw a maximum of $2,700,000 pesos per transaction and charges you an extra commission – a fee of 2.5% – which is one of the best rates. For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips for Broke Backpackers

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst during your Colombia travels, I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Colombia is an excellent place to take a good quality tent . Make sure to bring some insect spray, as you don’t want to get eaten alive.
• Cook your own food:  I took a small  backpacking gas cooker with me to Colombia and cooked a lot of my own meals whilst hitching and camping. You will save so much money per day by preparing food yourself.
• Hitchhike:  In Colombia, it can be easy to thumb a ride and it is an ace way to keep your transport costs down and instead spend it on smashing experiences. So hitchhike as much as you can when backpacking Colombia.

Why You Should Travel to Colombia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world , be sure to watch the video below.

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time To Travel To Colombia

Because of its close proximity to the equator, Colombia doesn’t get classic seasons and the day/night balance doesn’t really change much either. However, the country does get a few rainy seasons which are worth bearing in mind particularly if you are headed up to the North when Caribbean, tropical typhoons can be considerable.

It is generally agreed that the best time to go to Colombia is in December – March when the Andes are drier. These are the months when most of the festivals are happening and if by any chance you happen to be there in February, you should go to one of the most epic festivals in South America… el Carnaval de Barranquilla! I stayed in some awesome hostels in Barranquilla where I met some backpackers who I went to the festival with.

September to October are the wettest months although I experienced floods in November too. The rainforest can be wet all year round, and the coast is seriously hot.

What To Pack For Colombia

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Below I have provided essential information and Colombia travel tips for your backpacking adventure, including the best time to travel to Colombia, how much to budget for Colombia, and a guide to Colombian cuisine.

Staying Safe in Colombia

Yes, people have plenty to say about Colombia: security, drug traffickers, and other news intended to generate fear. Safety and security in Colombia is something to take into account – but not to panic about.

A while ago the situation was complicated to visit this beautiful country as a tourist. Let me tell you that today things are very different. In recent years they’ve seen a big increase in the level of security and falling crime rates. Most people backpacking in Colombia never have any problems – but there are cases of people still getting scammed or robbed. Today the population takes care of tourism because they understand that it is beneficial for everyone.

In most cases, the usual travel safety practices are enough. For my daily life (phone, money, and keys) I use a backpacker security belt; it’s better than carrying it in your pockets. Pickpockets, in big cities, are professional .

Don’t show off things of value, don’t carry a lot of money with you, and avoid going in tourist mode with your cell phone taking photos unless you want to see your phone disappear before your very eyes. When checking your phone on the streets, look around and do it briefly. At night, stay away from non-tourist areas and be wary of overly friendly people. If someone’s getting a bit too close, that’s your sign to back away.

It should also be noted, that druggings with sedatives do happen in Colombia – and it’s as common to happen to men as it is women. Although rare, it’s something to be aware of. ALWAYS keep an eye on your food and drinks and never accept cigarettes from strangers. This beautiful country has changed for the better. Today beautiful smiles greet you and a predisposition to good attention is what stands out. You can have a perfectly safe trip in Colombia. But – like anywhere – it pays to keep your wits about you.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n Roll in Colombia

Colombia has a pretty saucy reputation when it comes to drugs & sex, especially in Pablo Escobar’s hometown Medellin. It’s well known for both growing & selling cocaine, you can even snag a gram for as little as $7. No wonder it’s so popular among many travellers in South America. For tips on how to stay safe whilst getting fucked up in Colombia, check out Blazed Backpackers 101.

Cocaine tourism is on the rise in Columbia. I guess it’s not every day that you have the chance to take a “special tour” to make and snort your own cocaine! Just be careful with drugs especially abroad. No one wants to be locked up in a foreign jail. You can usually pay off the police if you get into trouble, just don’t go selling or raking up a debt with a drug lord.

Colombian women are typically beautiful and exotic. Their sexy moves and seductive dancing can be pretty hard to resist, plus they love foreigners too. Just be respectful and treat the women here like you would back home and you’ll have no problem. Many explorers backpacking Colombia are unsure of what to expect but this is a country with a welcoming people, stunning landscapes & great parties!

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Colombia

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How To Get Into Colombia

The main way to get to Colombia if you’re overseas is by plane, flying into Bogota International Airport. This is typically the cheapest place to fly in & out of; however, there are other international airports around Colombia that you can also fly into.

The easiest land crossing borders are from Venezuela & Ecuador as they have road access. Most backpackers use the Carretera Panamericana boarder crossing from Tulcan in Ecuador to Ipiales in Colombia. In Venezuela the main crossing is on the Caracas-Bogota road from San Antonio in Venezuela to Cúcuta in Colombia.

Many backpackers coming to travel Columbia from Panama, enter by boat. This is mainly because of the Darian gap between Panama & Colombia consisting mainly of large undeveloped swampland & forests. This no mans land is predominantly run by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), who have a long track record of assassinations, kidnappings & violations of human rights. If you’re coming to Colombia after your backpacking Central America trip, consider travelling by boat via the San Blas, it’s a once in a lifetime trip and one of the best things I have ever done.

The only land crossing from Peru & Brazil into Colombia is located in the far southeastern corner of the Colombian Amazon. You can reach the Leticia crossing from either Peru or Brazil via riverboat.

Entry requirements for Colombia

Most nations around the world don’t require a visa to backpack Columbia, which is awesome! Most nationalities get 60-90 days free to travel Colombia, just check what rules & regulations may apply for your country.

How To Get Around Colombia

When it comes to getting around Colombia, the distances can be a problem. There are lots of long distance buses which vary in price depending on the company, I recommend booking buses in advance during the high season. Flights can sometimes be very cheap so it is worth considering internal flights on occasion. Hitching isn’t common but is totally doable.

Traveling in Colombia by Public Transport

There are many modes of public transport to navigate your way around the cities in Colombia when backpacking. Bogota, Cali & Medellin have massive transport systems similar those in Europe & the United States. City buses have a flat fare no matter how far you’re going in the city. They range from pimped out old American school buses blasting Latino music, to modern air-conditioned buses. The price ranges between 600-1650 COP depending on the type of bus.

Tuk-tuks & moto taxis are common around tourist areas, just make sure you agree on a price before you get in. Taxi’s are super cheap & easy to use when travelling short distances. Make sure you get in a metered taxi! There are so many fake taxi’s around just be careful, make sure the taxi has a meter & there are no other passengers in the taxi as this is a common robbery tactic.

Hitchhiking in Colombia

Hitchhiking in Colombia isn’t that common, mainly due to paranoia about the security situation in the country. Not everyone here is a drug lord that wants to kidnap you for ransom money. You can hitchhike throughout Colombia; it’s such an awesome experience! Have faith there are good people out there, keep your wits about you & follow my hitchhiking tips .

Onward Travel from Colombia

The cheapest way to leave Colombia is by bus. There are international buses that you can catch from any major city. One can reach neighboring Ecuador or Venezuela in a matter of a few hours depending of course on where you are departing from.

Bogota and Medellin are home to major international airports of you need to catch a flight back home. Flying in South America can generally be expensive. I recommend using the bus systems as much a possible.

Colombian Culture

The people of Colombia definitely are what makes is such a special country to go backpacking in. From the late 1970’s through the 1990’s, the Colombian people endured a whole hell of a lot of trama, war, and terrorism. The conflicts between cocaine drug lords, police, mercenaries, and communist guerrilla groups rattled Colombia to the very foundations of its society.

Modern day Colombia is a place that couldn’t be more different than those dark times in its history. Much of Colombia and its people are thriving. Meet some locals and find out what daily life is like in Colombia in 2018.

Dating in Colombia

Gringo’s and Gringa’s will find themselves very popular with the natives in Colombia. Both local men and women can be quite direct and forward when it comes to showing affection!

Colombians are not exactly shy about their sexuality. However, the country is nominally Roman Catholic and contraception is not always widely practised, so be sure to take matters into your own hands. Many Colombians live with their parents until marriage so if you want some privacy with your Colombian companions, the done thing is to rent a hourly motel – and there are plenty of them.

My experience of travelling Colombia as a single man was that I was rarely in need of female company. However, I did find that local girlfriends did want to get “serious” a lot faster than I was used to so be careful with people’s feelings.

Useful Travel Phrases For Colombia

Navigating Colombia is gonna be pretty damn tough if you don’t learn some Spanish. Besides, it is such a useful language to know; you can speak it in over 20 countries! Check out this post for some Colombian slang . 

Here are a few helpful  travel phrases with English translations for your backpacking Colombia adventure:

Hello –  Hola 

How are you? – Cómo estás?

What is your name? – Cómo te llamas? 

Very good – Muy bueno/a

Beautiful – Hermoso/a

Can you give me a discount? – Me puede dar un descuento? 

How much does this cost?  – Cuánto cuesta? 

Do you have a lighter? – Tienes un encendedor? 

What? – Cómo?

Where? – Dónde  ? 

No plastic bag –  Sin bolsa de plástico

No straw please –  Sin pitillo por favor

No plastic cutlery please –  Sin cubiertos de plástico por favor

Shit – Mierda ! (a very light weight insult)

Shit eater – Come Mierda (for better effect!)

Two beers please – Dos cervezas por favor 

Down that beer! –  Acaba la cerveza!

Can you give me a ride – Me puedes dar un aventón?

Cheers –  Salud

What To Eat in Colombia

The food is cheap, tasty and plentiful. There is plenty of street food around with arepas, empanadas and meat on a stick being some of the staples. If you’re eating out, expect to pay between five to ten dollars for a decent meal.

If you’re after a hearty lunchtime meal & aren’t watching the carbs, try out Bandeja Paisa. It consists of rice, plantains, avocado, minced meat, chorizo, black sausage, fried pork rind & a fried egg chucked on top. My favourite dish was by far empanadas, they’re a great snack & are filled with a variety of toppings. Check out this post for even more info on some of the best Colombian dishes to try .

A Brief History of Colombia

One name and one product come to mind when thinking about Colombia’s recent history: Pablo Escobar. The guy is famous the world over for formally being one of the worlds richest men and Cocaine kingpin. Escobar’s reign in Colombia brought the country to its knees. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, Escobar was responsible for ordering the killings and bombing that resulted in tremendous loss of life in Colombia. We are talking deaths in the tens of thousands. Police, judges, lawyers, journalists, rivals, civilians, guerrillas: everyone was affected.

In addition to the infamous cocaine trade, Colombia had active guerrilla revolutionary movements happening since the 1960’s and was effectively engaged in civil war until recently. Some revolutionary groups like FARC, are still active today.

On November 6, 1985, the M-19 guerrilla group stormed the Colombian Palace of Justice and held the Supreme Court magistrates hostage, intending to put president Betancur on trial. In the ensuing crossfire that followed the military’s reaction, scores of people lost their lives, as did most of the guerrillas, including several high-ranking operatives. Both sides blamed each other for the outcome.

There was truly so much going on in Colombia, so much violence, that the state was on the verge of collapse.

Early 1990’s in Colombia

Following administrations had to contend with the guerrillas, paramilitaries, narcotics traffickers and the violence and corruption that they all perpetuated, both through force and negotiation. Narcoterrorists assassinated three presidential candidates before César Gaviria was elected in 1990.

Since the death of Medellín cartel leader Pablo Escobar in a police shootout during December 1993, indiscriminate acts of violence associated with that organization have abated as the “cartels” have broken up into multiple, smaller and often-competing trafficking organizations. Nevertheless, violence continued as these drug organizations resorted to violence as part of their operations, but also to protest government policies, including extradition.

Although the FARC and ELN accepted participation in the peace process, they did not make explicit commitments to end the conflict. FARC ended peace talks in the year 2000.

Modern Day Colombia

As I mentioned before, Colombia is now a nation at peace. You can see it in the streets and in the mountains. People aren’t terrified there might be a bombing or a shooting at any moment. Colombia is not totally free from problems certainly. Like any developing country, Colombia is still trying to eliminate poverty and social inequality. Colombia’s future is bright. Like Peru, Colombia has one of South America’s fastest growing economies.

I am deeply happy for Colombia and its people, that they have finally found relative calm after the totally fucking crazy 1980’s and 90’s. Keep doing your thing Colombia!

Working in Colombia

Because of it’s general awesomeness, Colombia is very popular for expats. Medellin is the most popular spot although Bogota offers the most varied and lucrative opportunities. That said, if you are looking for work an English teacher then you can quite probably find something pretty much anywhere in Colombia.

Visas For Colombia

To work in Colombia you will need a work visa. These are pretty easy to obtain for most western passport holders once you lined up a job and it is common to enter on a tourist visa and then upgrade it whilst in the country. The fee for the M5 Visa is $280.

Volunteer in Colombia

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. Volunteering continues to be very popular all over the world.

Colombia is a developing country so there are lots of opportunities for volunteers willing to donate some time and skills. Volunteer English teachers are in pretty much endless demand across Colombia and I enjoyed a very joyful spell teaching in Cartagena. More unique opportunities include working in the rainforests, nursing Jaguars and maybe helping out a coffee farmer.

Want to find some more volunteering opportunities in Colombia? Signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39. 

Not only do they make the process so much simpler, but Broke Backpacker readers also get a sweet discount on the signup fee just by using the code BROKEBACKPACKER !

Teaching English in Colombia

Teaching English is a very popular way for for expats to make their way in Colombia. Pay varies widely. A fully qualified teacher at a top university (degree + TEFL or CELTA) could earn $1800 per month which goes pretty far in Colombia but an unqualified backpacker teacher at regular school may have to make do with $900.

If you want to teach English from your own home, then you can try teaching English online. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to  start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English ,  TEFL courses  open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Final Advice Before Visiting Colombia

Colombia is a beautiful, beguiling land and you are sure to fall in love with it. Stay safe and enjoy your trip!

• Check out the hostels in Colombia to book yourself a dope stay. 
• Our ultimate Colombia packing list has all the info you’ll ever need. 
• Sort out your Colombia travel insurance before your trip.  
• We’ve also got where to stay in Bogotá covered with our epic guide.
• Colombia is just the start of your awesome backpacking trip around South America .
• Get your  international SIM card  organised to avoid hassle.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Sebastian Garcia Vivas

Share or save this post

23 Comments

This is a brilliant page! Covers everything.. thank you 🙂

Hello Will! We’re heading to Colombia—Cartagena and Medellin in March. Great info here. Any updates?

Hey! I’m going to the Taryona region Jan 21 to 27 starting by arriving by plane in Santa Marta. I want to combine maybe taganga, Minca Casa Elemento, and then Costeno Beach Surf Hostel and then go back to Santa Marta to catch my flight to Bogota on the 27. Is that the order I want to go in? How does transport work? Do you have any links about busses etc? Thanks for the help if you can! I have all the details on backpacking Uruguay beaches if you want to trade 😉 South America’s best kept secret!

Wifey and I LOVE Colombia and always stay in Envigado (been 3 times now) and have made some real nice local friends. The lifestyle there is wonderful, great foods, weather, nightlife, street atmosphere it has the lot. And all at a very affordable price. Your list has certainly given us more ideas and reasons to go back which actually we can’t wait. Thanks for making us miss it even more (if that’s really possible).

Hi Will, I am planning to visit colombai this year, reading your page helped me how to be prepared for backpacking, very useful page, thank you

Hey Guys If you’re going to San Gil I highly recommend Karla, is a girl in who helped us a lot in our stay there. She speak a good English, she was our guide and drove us where we need, and helped us in all that we needed like a accommodation, San Gil was much better that we thought thank to Karla. Her number is 3183928463

Hola Will Se que has estado en Venezuela, por ello quiero que me ayudes con ciertas recomendaciones respecto a lugares para visitar en especial sus playas, resorts o sea si son lugares en el mar caribe venezolano, mejor. Soy de Ecuador, espero nos vistes.

Any thoughts on Cali? Is it worth stopping there for a couple of days? I have heard it’s pretty dodgy safety wise.

I probably wouldn’t bother with Cali, the cities re all similar and Bogota and Medellin are definitely the best… Cali should only be on the list if your a die-hard Salsa fan… Safety wise, it really is fine – 3 months and no problems. Currently in Venezuela, significantly more dodgy and yet, still fine. Don’t trust the media or sensationalist news-reports, unless your a total god-damn idiot and attempt to buy coke off a cop, you will be fine.

When I was in Ecuador I thought of visiting Columbia. Did you go dancing while you were there, and if so what type of dancing did they introduce you to? Great pics and I love that you can haggle for a reduced price.

I had a crack at some salsa, it wasn’t the salsa I am used to from Europe though, apparently my foot-work was all wrong; I had the twirls down to a T though! 🙂

This looks like a rundown of my itinerary. There are so many amazing things to see and do in Colombia! Salento and Tayrona were my favourites. I also loved the adventure sports in San Gil and the trekking to the Lost City!

Thanks for the post! Heading to Colombia in July (yes, far far away). Staying in Cartagena/Santa Marta for 11 days for surfing, diving and snorkelling. Will look into Taganga a bit further.

Hope you make it to Ecuador, as it is such a great place and got back from there a few weeks ago. Happy travels!

Thanks Renee! Definitely head to Minke and Taganga, you’ll have an ace time! 🙂

Will!! Still travelling strong I see 🙂 hope you are having an awesome time. Loving the website, it’s giving me the serious travel bug! Still loving Exeter though, so will be here for a little while.

Hope you are well x

Sam!! I WAS THINKING ABOUT YOU LIKE LITERALLY YESTERDAY! How’s it going? I’ll be popping into exeter at some point, we should grab a coffee! And yes, still travelling – what else am I going to do, learn to cook? I don’t think so… :p

Super useful post! Thanks for sharing this. Next year I’m hoping to settle down for a while in South America and I’ve been hearing more and more great things about Colombia. Really looking forward to checking it out.

Thanks Charlie! Medellin is definitely a great place to settle, I’ve been here six weeks; loving it! 🙂

Colombia has been on my list for a while. Ciudad Perdida sounds amazing. Googling it now.

It’s an incredible trek! Don’t miss out, go NOW before it becomes crazy popular!! 🙂

Nice post, got three weeks in Colombia this summer so this is useful. You fancy doing one for Ecuador too? 😉

I notice there is supposed to a high malaria risk across much of Colombia, including most of the Pacific Coast – did you bother with antimalarials?

I never bother with anti-malarials and I’ve been to some pretty malaria-esque destinations, you should be fine matey! I’m not headed to Ecuador I’m afraid – onwards to Venezuela tomorrow!! 🙂

Hi Will, nice blog, but where did you stay? those hostels sound super expensive! We traveled around Colombia for a month or so and paid $5-$10 for a dorm bed and around $17 for a private room, I agree awesome and cheap place for adventure activities, super friendly people, awesome country. We are new to the blogging game, what we spent each per day can be seen below, if any of your followers are interested, what we did, where we stayed and how much we paid can be seen at http://stingynomads.com/colombia/ Signing up for your blog! Safe travels

Avg of what we spent Transport: 284 700 COP ($97.93) total, $3.15 avg per day

Food (shopping): 400 100 COP ($138) $4.45 avg per day

Accomodation: 510 500 COP ($175) $5.70 avg per day

Activities: 231 000 COP ($79.50) $2.56 avg per day

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Destinations
• Travel advice

The best Colombia travel guide | everything you need to know

• June 14, 2021

Table of Contents

If you ask travelers what is Colombia like, they will probably give you the answer: great! Why? Firstly, by the inhabitants themselves. When you are in Colombia you will immediately start to love the people. They are very nice, always have a smile and are proud that you as a tourist visit their country. They are always ready to help you. Colombia is one of the countries that has become very popular with travelers in recent years. This is because safety has been improved tremendously. Colombia is a very versatile country, from beautiful nature to bustling world cities. Every type of traveler can make their desired journey in Colombia. The Colombians work hard to give you a different view of Colombia. Probably the image you have of Colombia when you arrive and leave is completely different! This Colombia travel guide helps you plan your trip through Colombia.

Main information Colombia

Colombia at a glance: Colombia is a very versatile country because it has almost everything. From imposing mountains, beautiful sea, white sandy beaches to colonial villages, bustling metropolises, and beautiful museums. Colombia has 10% of the biodiversity which is worth exploring. When you are in Colombia you will fall in love with the culture and biodiversity.

Most popular destinations in Colombia:

• Bogota : For most travelers, Bogota is the city where they arrive and depart. In Bogota, you can visit the most beautiful museums in Colombia. Museo Botero and Museo del Oro are two museums that you should definitely visit.
• Salento / Valle de Cocora: Salento is a small village in the coffee region of Colombia. In Salento, you can do the best coffee tour in Colombia and visit Valle de Cocora. The tallest palm trees in the world grow here in a valley.
• Medelli n : Medellin is the nicest city in Colombia. In the past it wasn’t safe to travel to Medellin, today it is one of the most popular cities in South America.
• Cartagena : Fall in love with the colorful streets and Caribbean influences.
• Tayrona National Park : Want to visit Colombia’s most beautiful national park? This National park is special because the mountains of Serra Nevada overflow into the jungle and the sea.

Check this article about the best cities to discover in Colombia !

Currency in Colombia: Colombian Peso | 2021 exchange rate: 100 COP = €0.023 / $0.027

Tipping in Colombia: The only place you are expected to tip is in restaurants. There is a difference between normal and luxury restaurants. At luxury restaurants, 10% servicio or propina (tip in Spanish) is always added to the bill. If you do not want to pay this, you must call the manager and explain what you didn’t like in order not to pay the tip. This really only applies to very luxurious restaurants (we didn’t experience this). At the normal restaurants where most travelers eat, you should say ‘sin servicio, por favor’ (no tip please) when asking for the bill. If you forget this, you can also simply pay the amount without a tip.

Religion and Culture: Roman Catholicism is the most common religion in Colombia. In the culture, you can clearly see the influences of the Spanish occupation. You see a nice mix between Caribbean customs and Spanish traditions.

Transport in Colombia: Colombia is a very large country, so it’s recommended to use the bus and plane. For the relatively short distances, you can use the bus and buy your ticket for the next destination at your accommodation, tour operators, or bus station. For longer distances such as Medellin-Cartagena or Santa Marta-San Gil, it is recommended to use the plane or the night bus.

The best time to visit Colombia

Colombia has a tropical climate. Because it is close to the equator, the temperature is the same all year round and there are few temperature fluctuations. Colombia has a rainy and a dry season.

The rainy season for the south is between May-July and October-December. For the north, this is between September-October. The dry season is only in the south between December-March and July-August.

Colombia can be roughly divided into three seasons:

• High season (December-February): driest period, the best time to visit Colombia. The disadvantage is that the prices are high during this period;
• Moderate season (March-September): wet period, a good time to visit Colombia. The disadvantage is that the big cities can suffer from a lot of rainfall in April and May;
• Low season (October-November): the period of flooding in the Andean region. Due to the low water level, you can make good hikes in the Amazon. Prices are the lowest during this period.

The best time to visit Colombia: The high and moderate seasons are the best periods to visit Colombia. We personally prefer the moderate season, because the prices are lower.

Is Colombia safe to travel?

Colombia is safe to travel to. No country other than Colombia has done everything to make Colombia a safe country to travel to in recent years. If you use your common sense and prepare, nothing will happen. If you follow the tips below, you will most likely not experience any problems:

• Do not walk in strange neighborhoods where you don’t see other tourists (especially in the big cities);
• Use common sense, especially in the evening;
• Only pin your money at a bank and preferably during the day and not in a strange side street after dark;
• Avoid drug tourism;
• Don’t accept drinks or cigarettes from strangers, you don’t know what has been done with this;
• Busy places such as airports, bus stations, and markets are attractions for pickpockets. Carry your bag in front of you to prevent pickpockets;
• Walk deliberately, so don’t walk down the streets and show that you are lost. This can stand out and attract pickpockets. If you want to find the way and look at your map, go to a shop to orientate or ask for directions. This tip only applies to the major cities. This does not apply to the smaller villages;
• If you take a taxi in the evening from the airport or station, you must take an official taxi. Better pay a little more than getting into unpleasant situations afterward.

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

Best things to do in Colombia

Go paragliding over the chicamocha gorge.

Do you like adrenaline? Then go paragliding over the Chicamocha gorge, this is the best place in Colombia for paragliding. In fact, it is one of the best places in the world for paragliding. You can organize a tour from San Gil .

Stroll through the beautiful colonial streets

Because Colombia has been occupied by the Spaniards, you can still clearly see the colonial influences. Cartagena and Barichara (from San Gil ) are the most beautiful places to see the colonial influences.

Rafting category VI and V

If you want to go rafting and want to do it in one of the best places in the world then rafting over Rio Suarez is something for you. You can do this from San Gil .

Spend the night between the sea and the jungle

Tayrona National Park is the most visited park in Colombia. Many travelers visit this park in one day, but you can also stay here for several days. Unique to stay at the beach and sleep with the jungle behind you.

Best itinerary for Colombia

Colombia is a very versatile country and has a lot to offer. For this reason, you should have an itinerary that you can use as a guide. Most travelers have +/- 3 weeks to discover Colombia. This is enough to see the highlights of Colombia. Due to the size of the country, it isn’t possible to see everything. We recommend that you select in advance what you prefer to visit and select a part where you are going to travel. Keep in mind that traveling between destinations takes a long time due to the long distances. For this reason, we recommend using the plane or a night bus for very long distances. This means you don’t lose much time traveling.

We have made a Colombia travel route, we have also done this ourselves. Our travel route through Colombia has a good mix between nature, adventure, culture, cities, and an acceptable travel time. You don’t just want to be on the road during your trip. For example, we haven’t visited the south of Colombia, because this is a lot of traveling. In our Colombia itinerary , you can read what the best places are to visit in Colombia. If you want more information about a specific destination, you can simply open its article and read all the detailed information.

Best dishes in Colombia

Colombian food is a mix of European and Latin American. Colombian food is very fresh and tasty. You can find many different restaurants in Colombia. The best way to discover Colombian cuisine is by eating at local places. Dishes from Colombia mainly consist of corn, beans, chicken, potatoes, meat, and rice. Many Colombian dishes are worth trying.

Dishes that you really should try when you are in Colombia are:

• Arepas: The most served side dish in Colombia. It is made from cornmeal and is usually served with corn or butter.
• Ajiaco: A delicious soup consisting of chicken, avocado, potatoes, capers, corn, and sour cream.
• Lechona: This is a roasted pig filled with rice, onions, peas, and herbs. This is often served as a specialty.
• Empanadas: This is a delicious snack that you will find all over South America. The dish is originally from Spain and Portugal. Usually, empanadas are baked and filled with various ingredients.
• Churros: A long-shaped dough that has been fried, really delicious. You see clearly the Spanish influence in this dish. Many Colombians eat this for breakfast.

We wrote an article about the best restaurants in Colombia , check it out when you want to know more!

Budget type for Colombia

Colombia is one of the cheaper countries in South America to travel to. Colombia is very versatile, you can go hiking, go rafting, paraglide over a gorge or relax on the beach. In Colombia, you can have a great trip no matter what your budget is. Depending on what type of traveler you are, you have to take into account a budget of:

• Budget traveler: if you have a tight budget and you pay close attention to what you spend, $30 – $35 per day may be sufficient.
• Mid-range traveler: If you do a couple of expensive activities or stay at good accommodations, $35 – $65 per day is enough.

If you want to know more about how much it costs to travel through Colombia and how much it costs in particular if you use our Colombia itinerary you can read this article for all the detailed information: Colombia trip cost . For each cost category, it is explained in detail what the costs consist of and how you can save on them. You can also read how much our trip cost.

Where to stay in Colombia

In Colombia, you can stay at very basic to very luxurious accommodations. You can stay in a tent or a luxury hotel with its own beach. It is also possible to stay in nice cozy dormitories or sleep in a hammock on the roof of a hostel. At every destination, there are enough choices for every type of traveler.

Searching for the right accommodation is time-consuming. To help you, we have wirtten an article in which we give accommodation recommendations for each destination based on our Colombia itinerary . If you want to save yourself a lot of time, we recommend reading our article about Read the best hostels and hotels in Colombia and immediately book the accommodation you prefer. This ensures you a place to sleep. An advantage is that you still retain your flexibility because if you book via our links you can adjust your reservation free of charge up to two days before check-in.

What to pack for Colombia

Of course, packing your bag for Colombia depends on what you are going to do specifically. The advantage is that the temperatures are the same all year round. Try to work with layers as much as possible in terms of clothing so that you are still comfortably dressed in places like Bogota. Here it can be cooler than other destinations in Colombia. Based on our experience, we recommend the following packing list for a trip to Colombia:

Tip: pack as little as possible. Anything that you take with you too much should be lugged along throughout your holiday.

• Swimming and normal (hike) clothes (pack as light as possible, work with layers)
• 1 pair of good walking shoes, 1 pair of slippers
• Toiletry bag with stuff
• Mosquito spray
• Sun protection
• Crazycap (UV water bottle)
• Personal items
• Sleeping bag
• Quick-drying towel
• Rain jacket (for the rainy season)
• Medical kit (very important for your personal safety!)
• Other (zip bag, combination lock, and universal charger)

Other travel tips from this Colombia travel guide

• Don’t do Pablo Escobar tourism. This is offensive and doesn’t bring any joy to anyone. So don’t talk about the Narcos series or anything related to this topic.
• Make sure you have the correct vaccinations. Contact your own doctor for more information.
• Before traveling to Peru, try to speak a few words of Spanish. We heard from travelers that it was sometimes difficult for them to communicate because they didn’t speak English very well.
• Try to arrange everything yourself and don’t do an organized trip. This saves you a lot of money and you keep your flexibility during the trip. There is nothing more fun than going on an adventure yourself.
• Pay as much as possible with cash (withdraw money at banks). Also, bring a credit card should something happen to your normal bank card.
• Enjoy your holiday and let yourself be surprised! Colombia is one of the most beautiful countries you can visit. You are going to have many adventures here.
• If you travel to Colombia by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through Rentalcars . We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.

Did you enjoy this article? Then save it to Pinterest for later!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

Follow our adventure

More to discover.

Ultimate guide to discover Salento in Colombia

Best 6 things to do in Santa Marta

#1 Cartagena travel guide

Perfect Colombia itinerary for travel 3 to 4 week

6 Best things to do in San Gil

6 Fun things to do in Minca, Colombia

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let's get social

Follow our adventures, popular places.

• United Kingdom

2024 Travel Your Memories. Website created by Red Pineapple .

Privacy Policy       Sitemap

Privacy Overview

Follow our adventures on instagram.

• Travel to Colombia
• 7 Day Itinerary
• Map of Colombia
• Food & Drink
• Photo Galleries
• Colombia Flag
• Villa de Leyva
• Popayan & South
• San Agustin
• Barranquilla
• Santa Marta
• Cabo de la Vela
• Bucaramanga
• About This Site

Colombia: The only risk is wanting to stay

Long ignored as a tourist destination for it's shady past Colombia is finally taking its rightful place as the one of the most fascinating and beautiful countries in the world .

Breath-taking natural landscapes of every type imaginable, quaint colonial towns , thriving modern cities , and people with a warmth and kindness that will instantly make you feel at home leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to visit this stunning country.

As the only South American country with coasts on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans its shores are home to a wide variety of marine life. The majestic hunchbacked whales migrate along the pacific coast while the caribbean coast abounds with colourful coral reefs and crystal blue waters.

The interior of the country boasts everything from deserts to snow-capped mountains , jungles to glaciers .

Given the overwhelmingly negative media coverage the country receives it is hardly surprising that most people dismiss Colombia out of hand when it comes to planning their next trip. I can understand this because I was also once of this mindset!

If you're looking for a slightly more reasoned argument about the country being safe for visitors than "Trust me, it's great!" then have a look at my safety guide for more reassurance.

The key is to speak to people who have actually visited the country. And I challenge you to find one of those people who doesn't rave about how wonderful the place is - it won't be easy!

So jettison all those pre-conceptions you have about this country and give it a chance. I did, and I've now almost clocked up almost a decade here with no plans of leaving anytime soon! 

Cultural Highlights:

This is a country with a  proud and traditional culture , but also one that is very inclusive - you'll constantly be encouraged to try the food, speak the language, and especially dance to the music! And barely a week passes without at least one festival , carnival or celebration of some description.

Throw the nobel-prize winning Gabriel Garcial Marquez and a host of internationally-renowned artists like Fernando Botero and you have a country brimming with cultural heritage.

Big City Guides:

Most South American countries consist of a huge capital city, often on the coast, with an under-developed hinterland. Colombia is different. There are 5 cities with populations of over a million people each with its own unique culture and charm.

The sprawling capital, Bogota , is a city of towering skyscrapers and modern apartment blocks but also centuries-old colonial architecture.

Then there's Medellin , known as the city of eternal spring as a nod to its year-round perfect climate and home to the impressive Flower Festival, and  Cali , the Salsa capital of South America.

Also worth a visit are large cities such as Bucaramanga, known for its numerous parks , and the Caribbean port of Barranquilla , famous for hosting the country's largest carnival.

A Taste of the Caribbean:

Cartagena  features arguably the most stunning, colourful colonial quarter on the continent and is unmissable on any trip here.

Not far from Santa Marta are the  splendid beaches of Parque Tayrona where it's possible to stare at the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta while floating in the warm waters of the Caribbean.

Historic Colonial Towns:

The country abounds with quaint laid-back colonial towns dotted across the country's diverse canvas of landscapes. From the cool mountain towns of Villa de Leyva and Barichara to hot, sticky Mompox on an island in the middle of the Magdalena River.

And don't miss the pretty town of Salento , the base for exploring the coffee region and for great treks into the surrounding forests and mountains.

One of the many stunning tropical beaches of Parque Tayrona on the Caribbean Coast

So whether you are planning to visit for business, pleasure, or both, prepare yourself to be amazed by everything this wonderful country has to offer.

New! Comments

Follow Us on Social Media

Best of Colombia

17 days | experience the best of the best-kept secret in south america.

Discover South America's best-kept secret on this 17-day adventure through the verdant mountains and powdery beaches of Colombia. Head into the serene highlands of Colombia's famed coffee region and discover the sweeter, softer side of this misunderstood country. Fall in love with Bogota's heart, laze on palm-fringed stretches of Caribbean shoreline and hang with locals that redefine hospitality. 

Trip overview

• Stay in the vibrant Chapinero neighbourhood in Bogota, one of the most culturally diverse parts of town.
• Embark on a spectacular guided hike through the Cocora Valley, home to hummingbirds and the world's tallest palm trees.
• Spend a couple of days learning about the world's favourite bean during a stay on a traditional coffee estancia deep in coffee country.
• Discover the new face of Medellin and learn about the city’s transformation from most dangerous neighbourhood in Colombia to arts and culture haven.
• Try your hand at tejo, Colombia’s explosive national sport (think bocce with gunpowder!). Join your group on this fun activity in Salento, made better with a free beer in hand.
• Colombia enjoys a stable year-round climate, but it can get particularly hot and humid on the coast. Remember to come prepared with adequate clothing.
• The Cocora Valley hike is quite rigorous, so you'll need to be fit and have sturdy walking shoes to take part. If you'd rather relax, you're free to opt out of this activity and soak up the scenery at your leisure.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Bogota! Situated at 2644 metres, Colombia's lofty capital is a charming, yet hectic, mix of old and new.. With a wealth of cosy cafes, interesting museums and old churches, cosmopolitan Bogota is full of surprises. Your adventure begins with an orientation walk of Candelaria at 1pm. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where your group will be meeting.    There will be a formal welcome meeting at 6pm for the whole group including those that missed the orientation walk. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. After, why not go out for a group dinner? 

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Bogota - La Candelaria Walking Tour
• Bogota - Montserrate cable car - COP29500
• Bogota - Gold Museum - COP5000
• Bogota - Zipaquira Salt Cathedral + Guatavita sacred Lagoon Day Tour - COP390000
• Bogota - Villa de Leyva Magic Town Day tour - COP380000
• Bogota - La Chorrera waterfall hike Day tour - COP270000
• Bogota - Museo Nacional - USD10
• Bogota - Local Graffiti Tour - COP50000
• Bogota - Zipaquira Salt Cathedral Tour - COP270000

Due to Bogota's elevation we recommend taking it easy on your first couple of days while you get used to the altitude.

This morning, immerse your senses in the flavours and colours of Colombia on a visit the famed Paloquemao Market, home to Bogota’s biggest selection of exotic fruits, fresh vegetables and food stalls – perhaps indulge in a delicious Arepa (Colombian style tortilla). Around lunch time take a short flight (1 hour) to the coffee region and transfer (approximately 40 minutes) to the beautiful village of Salento. Take the time to stroll through its quaint streets and admire the colours of 'paisa' architecture at its best. For some local food, trout is the way to go. There are lots of ways to enjoy it, but it's most often served with a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Colombia's national sport, tejo, is a popular pastime in Salento. Think bocce with gunpowder! This evening, try your hand at this fun activity with the group – made even better with a free beer in hand!

• Salento - Traditional Tejo Game
• Bogota - Visit to Paloquemao market

Travel by jeep out to the magnificent Cocora Valley, home of the towering wax palm (Colombia's national tree). Spend the morning walking among the region's incredible scenery, perhaps hiking up to Acaime Reserve where colourful hummingbirds feed. The hike to Acaime (approximately 5 hours) is quite strenuous, with some steep and slippery sections, so you'll need good walking shoes as well as plenty of water and snacks. A generous boxed lunch will be provided. If you'd rather take it easy, you can explore the valley as you please, then take a jeep back to town. Later, travel deep into Colombia's coffee region for a two-night stay in a traditional coffee estancia, where you'll have a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about this wonderful bean.

• Coffee Estancia (1 night)

Thanks to its tropical altitude and fertile volcanic soil, Colombia is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. You’ll get to know this addictive little bean a whole lot better on a guided tour of the coffee plantation and processing centre. Dig into the history of the plant, learning the inside story of the industry that's long buoyed the country's economy. See how the beans are grown, harvested, processed, dried, roasted and ground, and then sample firsthand what all the fuss is about. Try different types of coffee grains and get a lesson on preparing different types of coffees – finishing it all off with a steaming cup of freshly brewed joe. Afterwards, relax amid the estancia's beautiful surrounds of sloping green hills and valleys.

• Coffee Hacienda- Coffee plantation tour & tasting

This morning we will leave the Coffee Estancia and take a 1- hour transfer to the small town of Chinchina, where we will then board a comfortable public bus for the journey to Medellin (approximately 6-7 hours). Along the way, learn a little more about the town's interesting recent history. Having spent the 1980’s and 90’s with an international reputation as one of the world's most dangerous cities (due to Pablo Escobar's infamous drug cartel), Medellin has turned itself around to become one of the most exciting cities in South America. And with some of the country's finest museums, parks and architecture (as well as a much safer and comfortable atmosphere now) it's easy to see why its popularity is increasing. On arrival, explore this beautiful city on a an orientation walk with your leader, followed by free time this evening – why not check out some of Medellin’s famous nightlife!

There are major roadworks on the road to Medellin, this can cause lengthy delays and make for a slow travel day, so take plenty of water and snacks for the journey. This road is also very winding so if you are prone to motion sickness it is recommended you prepare for this by speaking to your doctor before travel about travel sickness medication.

Today you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Medellin and its surrounds during a cable car ride up to Santa Elena. Sail up the mountain over brick houses, watching as the corrugated metal roofs give way to vistas of green valleys and forested peaks. Thanks to the elevation, things are usually a little cooler up here. Enjoy an included tour of a flower garden where you will see a local family showcase the unique flower displays traditional to the region. When back in Medellin partake in a barrio transformation tour to witness how the city is more than its dark history. Learn about Medellin's extraordinary transformation and cultural and social evolution. This evening, you might want to search out one of the city's lively salsa bars (many count Medellin's nightlife as the best in Colombia).

• Medellin - Barrio Transformation Tour
• Medellin - Flower Garden tour
• Metrocable to Acevedo station and up to Santa Elena

Today is a free day. You'll have some free time to explore Medellin. Perhaps visit the Museo de Antioquia to see some of Botero's famous works or get more modern at the beautiful Museo de Arte Moderno.

• Medellin - Comuna 13 Tour - COP150000
• Medellin - Guatape + Penol Rock Day Tour - COP140000
• Medellin - Violence + Posconflict Tour - COP50000
• Medellin - Museo de Antioquia entrance fee - COP30000
• Medellin - Historic Downtown Tour - COP50000

Cartagena is one of South America's most historic cities. The old city, particularly the inner walled town, is the main attraction – it's packed with beautiful churches, monasteries, plazas and mansions. Your hotel is located in the vibrant Getsemani neighbourhood, a part of the old town with loads of colourful street art and an authentic feel. Tonight there will be a meeting at 6 pm to meet new travelers who may be joining you for this next leg. After the meeting, step out for an orientation walk with your leader to get a feel for the city (note that this may take place tomorrow morning instead).

• Cartagena - Orientation walk of hotel neighbourhood

Please note that this trip can be partnered with other adventures into a ‘combo’, which means that you may be joined by new travelers today, and some that have traveled with you so far may leave the tour at this point.

Spend some free time getting to know the old and new of Cartagena. Wander the old city, shop for local handicrafts, head up to San Felipe de Barajas Castle (the largest of the city's fortresses) or take boat to Punta Arenas or Playa Blanca for a well-deserved swim in the Southern Caribbean. Otherwise, book yourself in a tour out of town to the Volcan de Lodo El Totumo. Instead of lava, this peculiar volcano spews a cream-like mud that is said to contain many healing properties. Enter for a strange bathing experience, then wash the muddiness off in the nearby lagoon.The evening is yours to spend as you wish. Make sure to check in with your leader for great places to try some local food.

• Cartagena - San Felipe de Barajas Castle - COP33000
• Cartagena - San Basilio de Palenque Full Day Tour - COP300000
• Cartagena - Mangroves Tour - COP150000
• Cartagena - Rosario Islands Boat Trip with Lunch (from) - USD70
• Cartagena - Walking tour Cartagena Walled City - COP50000
• Cartagena - Walled city + Getsemani District Tour - COP50000
• Cartagena - Gabriel Garcia Marquez Walking Tour - COP50000

In the morning, take a private van transfer (approximately 6 hours) north of Cartagena to Guachaca – your home for the next two nights. Guachaca is located in northern Colombia and is surrounded with lush jungle and mountains that collide with the sun-kissed coastline. Visit an initiative that fights to preserve the prehispanic Tayrona culture that populated this area and glimpse what the famous lost city once was. Meet with an indigenous member from one of the four communities that are still occupying La Sierra. You will even have the chance to give back to nature and the community by helping in a local project to reforest the area. Your accommodation is a simple and comfortable family-run guesthouse, nestled high in the jungle. In the evening, enjoy a cocktail or two with your fellow travellers or treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

Your accommodation in Guachaca is a simple family-run guesthouse. Please note that they do not have hot water, however this will come as a welcome relief, as you’ll need to cool off from the steamy Columbian weather!

Head to Tayrona National Park – a series of jungle and coves surrounding the Caribbean coast on the foothills of the Santa Marta mountains. Today is all about hiking the forest trails for Tayrona’s beaches, and with a fair amount of hiking involved today, be prepared and make sure your walking shoes are on and you’ve packed some bug spray. Along the way, you’ll experience lush the green rainforest, the ambience of the jungle and all wildlife that inhabit it, and the special glimpses of coastline and beaches that peek through the canopies. The trail to stunning Cabo San Juan is well worth the effort; it's further away than some other beaches however highly recommended. The hike today is flexible and can be tailored to suit all fitness and energy levels. There can be some steep ups and downs, high humidity, and some muddy spots if it’s been raining, so your group leader can organise a route that pleases everyone. When you’ve had enough hiking, swimming and relaxing, head back to Guachaca for the evening.

• Family Posada (1 night)
• Tayrona National Park - Entrance fee
• Tayrona National Park hike

Tayrona National Park’s rainy season is between May and July and again from September to October. We can normally carry on with our scheduled itinerary during these periods, however if the authorities close the park due to severe weather conditions, we will offer an alternative activity. Also, it may not be possible to swim at all beaches, as ocean rips and currents can make conditions dangerous.

The indigenous communities that inhabit this area request temporary closure of the National Park so that the land may rest and rejuvenate. Normally it will be a period of 15 days in February, June and October/November respectively. Your leader will give you more info at the group meeting. One of the alternative activities to do should the park be closed is to visit the indigenous sites of Tayronaka or Katanzama.

The hike today is 14km and approximately 6 hours duration. Options to do a shorter hike are available. 

Enjoy a final morning in your jungle haven. After a continental breakfast, head off for an included flight from Santa Martha to Bucaramanga (with a transit in Bogota). Arrive at Bucaramanga in the late afternoon and then head onto the peaceful town of Giron. This quintessential 'white city' is part of the Colombian Heritage Towns, thanks to the cobble street and colonial buildings well preserved to this day. Follow your leader on an orientation walk then have some free time enjoying this town in the evening.

Depending on flight times you may arrive early enough to go straight to Barichara to allow more time to explore the well presevered Spanish architecture and expereince what this town has to offer.

Please note that the flight schedule from Santa Martha to Bucaramanga with a stopover in Bogota is still sparse so the transit time in Bogota can be long.

Depending on flight times you may arrive early enough to go straight to Barichara.

This morning, leave Giron behind and enjoy a spectacular drive through the iconic Chicamocha Canyon to Barichara (approximately 3.5 hours).

On arrival, head to a local factory where you’ll learn the traditional method of making paper from the natural fibres of the Andean fique plant. This factory is the number one employer in Barichara, which began with the aim to financially support single-parent women who previously did not have any promise of work. Afterwards, set out on a 3-hour walk along the Camino Real with a local guide to the village of Guane. Declared a national monument in 1988, the ancient trail was built by the indigenous Guane people as a trade route between towns, and you’ll be hiking a small section between Barichara and Guane. Along the way visit a local skilled artisan who will demonstrate the intricate process of crafting with plantain fiber and explain how this craft has been essential in supporting her family. The walk is stunning, full of panoramic views of the mountain ranges. It starts off with a gentle descent down the rim of a canyon before crossing a valley filled with cacti. The walking is mostly downhill, and you'll likely spot a few fossils embedded in the stones that pave the trail en route. On arrival in Guane, refresh with a cooling drink, soak up the peaceful atmosphere and perhaps check out the town’s church, before catching the local bus back to Barichara.

• Barichara - Visit to a local artisan paper factory

The walk today is 5km and approximately 3 hours duration.

With its quaint cobbled streets, stuccoed houses and hilly backdrop, Barichara is probably the prettiest colonial-style village in all of Colombia. With some free time, spend today however you please. Barichara means ‘resting place’ in the local indigenous language and is itself a fine place to wander around on foot, with its laidback feel and range of shops and artisanal workshops to explore. If you'd like to get more active, head over to San Gil, the thrill-seeking capital of Colombia (approximately 30 minutes' drive). Speak to your group leader for suggestions of things to do – rafting, mountain biking – it’s an adventure sport hub. The Pescaderito swimming hole on the way there is well worth a visit too; even if the water is a little chilly, it's an idyllic spot to relax for an hour or two.

• Barichara - Walk along Camino Real to the village 'Guane'
• Mountain Bike Cañon Suarez (transportation included, min 7 pax) - COP390000
• Barichara - Pescaderito swimming hole - USD16
• Rafting Fonce River (transportation included) - COP190000
• Ants Cooking Class - COP45000
• Coffee Tour - COP150000

Today you’ll travel by local bus to Bogota via San Gil (approximately 8 hours), so kick back and enjoy the drive as the scenery rolls by. There will be only the one stop along the way, so ensure you take drinks and snacks for the journey. Your hotel in Bogota is located in the Chapinero neighbourhood, one of the most culturally diverse parts of town.

Due to Bogota's elevation we recommend taking it easy while you get used to the altitude.

Time for some exploring – today, You’ll explore the oldest area in the city and understand more about the Colombian past, present and future. One is La Candelaria, the historic heart of the city. Boasting a wealth of cosy cafes and colonial churches, it's a neighbourhood full of surprises. As well as loads of museums, art and great food to try, it's also just a beautiful town to walk around, an interesting clash of the old and new. You’ll also head to the Gold Museum for a chance to learn about the wealth this country once had. Fascinating and easy to navigate, the museum has 55,000 artefacts from various eras on display. During the day, you will also learn about Colombia’s turbulent past on a ‘War and Peace’ tour, which outlines their history of war, including political assassinations and armed groups in conflict, and how the country has developed into the situation it finds itself now.

After an included breakfast, there are no planned activities today and no accommodation planned at night. If you wish to spend more time in Bogota, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners

Plane, Private Bus, Private vehicle, Public bus, Van

Hotel (14 nights), Coffee Estancia (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 3,4 (Cofee Estancia) and Days 10,11 (Guesthouse) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for Entrance tickets to certain sites. Additionally on certain trips it's needed to book bus, train or flight tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets. Delays to provide this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary. 3. This trip starts with an orientation walk of Candelaria at 1pm on Day 1 in Bogota. There will be a formal welcome meeting at 6pm for the whole group including those that missed the orientation walk. If you are unable to find a suitable flight it is possible to book additional nights at the joining accommodation. 4. This trip ends on Day 17 and you are free to leave at any time. 5. This trip is a combination of two of our most popular departures. As such the make up of the group and the tour leader may change on Day 8 6. In order to comply with tourist regulations set by the Colombian government, a copy of your passport will be required. This will be emailed to our local office in Colombia, your tour leader will assist you with this on day 1.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Filter by rating