Travel to Colombia

Colombia has several international airports, with Bogotá's El Dorado International Airport (BOG) being the primary hub.

• Major Airports:

  1. Bogotá (BOG):

     • Largest airport, with the most international connections.

     • Direct flights from North America, Europe, and other parts of South America.

  2. Medellín (José María Córdova Airport - MDE):

     • Direct flights from Miami, Madrid, and Panama City.

     • Good option if you're heading straight to the Coffee Region.

  3. Cartagena (Rafael Núñez Airport - CTG):

     • Serves Caribbean travellers and tourists heading for the coast.

     • Direct flights from Miami, New York, and Madrid.

  Major Airlines Flying to Colombia:

  • From North America: Avianca, American Airlines, Delta, United, LATAM.

  • From Europe: Air France, Iberia, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines.

  • Within South America, Australia & New Zealand: LATAM, Copa Airlines, Aerolíneas Argentinas..

How to plan your trip to Colombia

Travel Requirements in Colombia:

• Visa: Many nationalities (including US, UK, and EU citizens) can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days. Check your specific requirements here.

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

  Vaccinations:

  • Yellow Fever: Required if visiting the Amazon region or travelling from countries with risk.

  • Recommended: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines.

  Transportation In Colombia:

  • • Flights: Domestic flights are common and inexpensive (Avianca, LATAM, Viva Air).

    • Buses: Reliable for long distances, but journeys can be lengthy.

    • Taxis/Ride Apps: Use apps like Uber or Cabify for safety, especially at night.

    • Public Transport: Efficient in cities (Medellín Metro, Bogotá TransMilenio).

Best time to visit Colombia

December to March and July to August are the driest months across most of the country, making them ideal for travel. These periods generally offer pleasant weather and are great for outdoor activities.

Regional Considerations:

1. Bogotá (Andean Region):

   • Best Time: December to March, when it's drier and sunnier.

   • Weather: Cool due to high altitude (around 15°C/59°F on average).

2. Cartagena & Caribbean Coast:

   • Best Time: December to April.

   • Weather: Warm year-round, but the dry season offers sunny beaches and less rain.

3. Medellín:

   • Best Time: Year-round (known as the "City of Eternal Spring").

   • Weather: Pleasant temperatures around 22°C-28°C (72°F-82°F) consistently.

4. Amazon Rainforest:

   • Best Time: July to September (less rain).

   • Weather: Hot and humid year-round, with frequent rain.

5. Coffee Region (Zona Cafetera):

   • Best Time: December to March or July to September.

   • Weather: Moderate temperatures and less rain during these periods.

Top Destinations in Colombia

Cartagena:

• Highlights: Walled Old Town, Castillo San Felipe, Rosario Islands.

• Best for Beaches, history, and vibrant nightlife.

1. Medellín:

   • Highlights: Comuna 13 murals, Parque Arví, cable cars.

   • Best for: Culture, innovation, mild weather.

2. Bogotá:

   • Highlights: Gold Museum, Monserrate Hill, La Candelaria.

   • Best for: History, museums, urban exploration.

3. Coffee Triangle (Zona Cafetera):

   • Highlights: Salento, Cocora Valley, coffee plantations.

   • Best for: Nature lovers and coffee enthusiasts.

4. Amazon Rainforest (Leticia):

   • Highlights: Wildlife tours, canopy walks, river cruises.

   • Best for: Adventure, biodiversity.

5. Tayrona National Park:

   • Highlights: Pristine beaches, hiking trails, ancient ruins.

   • Best for: Eco-tourism, secluded beaches.

Food & Culture in Colombia

Colombian food varies greatly by region due to the country's diverse geography. Here are some standout dishes and drinks:

Popular Dishes:

1. Bandeja Paisa:

   • Origin: Antioquia (Medellín region).

   • Ingredients: Rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón (fried pork belly), chorizo, fried egg, plantain, avocado, and arepa.

   • Tip: A filling dish, typically enjoyed as a hearty lunch.

2. Ajiaco:

   • Origin: Bogotá.

   • Ingredients: Chicken, three types of potatoes, corn, capers, cream, and a local herb called guasca.

   • Flavour: Creamy, hearty soup, perfect for the Andean climate.

3. Arepas:

   • Origin: Nationwide.

   • Varieties:

     • Arepa de queso: Filled with cheese.

     • Arepa de choclo: Sweet, made from corn.

   • Tip: A common breakfast or snack, often served with hot chocolate or coffee.

4. Sancocho:

   • Ingredients: A thick stew made with chicken, beef, or fish, potatoes, yucca, corn, and plantains.

   • Regional Variations: Each area has its twist; coastal versions often feature fish.

5. Lechona:

   • Origin: Tolima region.

   • Ingredients: Whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, onions, and spices.

   • Popular During: Festive occasions and holidays.

Street Food and Snacks:

• Empanadas: Fried pastries filled with meat, potatoes, or cheese.

• Buñuelos: Fried dough balls with cheese, especially popular around Christmas.

• Patacones: Twice-fried plantain slices, often served with guacamole or cheese.

Drinks:

• Coffee: Colombia is world-famous for its high-quality Arabica beans, best enjoyed black or as a "tinto."

• Aguardiente: An anise-flavored liquor often enjoyed during celebrations.

• Chicha: A fermented corn drink with indigenous origins.

• Cultural Highlights

  Colombia’s culture is vibrant and diverse, with strong regional identities and traditions:

  Music and Dance:

  • Cumbia: A traditional folk dance with African and indigenous influences.

  • Vallenato: Originating from the Caribbean coast, it features accordions and tells stories.

  • Salsa: Especially popular in Cali, known as the “Salsa Capital of the World.”

  • Reggaeton: Widely popular, with Colombian artists like J Balvin and Karol G leading globally.

  Festivals:

  1. Carnival of Barranquilla:

     • When: February/March (second-largest carnival in the world).

     • Features: Parades, dances, and colourful costumes.

  2. Medellín Flower Festival (Feria de las Flores):

     • When: August.

     • Highlight The "Silleteros" parade showcases intricate flower arrangements.

  3. Bogotá’s Ibero-American Theater Festival:

     • When: Every two years in March.

     • Focus: One of the world’s largest theatre festivals, attracting performers globally.

  Art and Literature:

  • Gabriel García Márquez: Nobel Prize-winning author known for "One Hundred Years of Solitude" and the magical realism style.

  • Fernando Botero: Famous for his paintings and sculptures of exaggerated figures.

  Language and Customs:

  • Language: Spanish is the official language; each region has distinct accents.

  • Hospitality: Colombians are warm and welcoming. Sharing food and drinks is central to their social culture.

Why you SHOULD travel to Colombia

Colombia offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant cities that make it an exceptional travel destination. Here's why you should visit:

1. Stunning Natural Diversity

Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with landscapes ranging from tropical beaches to lush rainforests and towering mountains.

• Amazon Rainforest: Explore wildlife and indigenous cultures.

• Andes Mountains: Hike and enjoy breathtaking views.

• Caribbean & Pacific Coasts: Pristine beaches and world-class surfing.

• Caño Cristales: Known as the "River of Five Colors," it's a natural wonder.

2. Vibrant Cities

Each Colombian city has a distinct character:

• Medellín: Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," it boasts innovative urban spaces and a thriving cultural scene.

• Bogotá: Offers a rich history with its colonial centre, museums, and buzzing nightlife.

• Cartagena: Famous for its walled old town, colourful streets, and Caribbean vibe.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage

Colombia’s history blends indigenous, African, and Spanish influences.

• Festivals: Experience the vibrant Carnival of Barranquilla or the Medellín Flower Festival.

• Music: From Cumbia and Vallenato to Salsa in Cali, Colombia is a music lover’s paradise.

• Art & Literature: Home to greats like Gabriel García Márquez and Fernando Botero.

4. Delicious Cuisine

Colombian food is diverse and flavorful:

• Try a hearty Bandeja Paisa or Ajiaco.

• Enjoy tropical fruits like lulo and maracuyá.

• Taste world-renowned Colombian coffee right from the source.

5. Warm Hospitality

Colombians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. You'll feel welcomed, and many visitors are touched by the warmth of local people.

6. Affordable Travel

Compared to other South American destinations, Colombia offers excellent value for money.

• Accommodations: Options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

• Food & Transport: Inexpensive and high-quality, especially local eateries and domestic flights.

7. Adventure Opportunities

• Trekking: The Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) hike is one of the continent's best.

• Paragliding: Experience it over Medellín or Bucaramanga.

• Water Sports: Surfing, diving, and snorkelling on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

Safety and travel advice in Colombia

Colombia is a fantastic destination, but staying informed about safety is essential for a smooth trip. Here's a guide to help you travel confidently:

1. General Safety Tips:

• Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets or public transport.

• Avoid Displaying Valuables: Keep phones, cameras, and jewellery discreetly tucked away.

• Use Trusted Transport:

  • Stick to Uber or official taxi apps like Cabify in cities.

  • At airports, use authorised taxi services.

• Emergency Numbers:

  • Police: 123

  • Medical Emergencies: 125

  • Tourist Police: Present in major cities.

2. Specific Areas to Be Cautious:

• Big Cities (Bogotá, Medellín, Cali):

  • Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night.

  • Avoid neighbourhoods known for crime—ask locals or hotel staff for advice.

• Nightlife: Avoid walking alone at night. Take taxis or ride-sharing apps to and from venues.

• Rural Areas: Some remote areas may have ongoing security concerns. Check current travel advisories and avoid regions with recent unrest.

3. Health and Well-being:

• Vaccinations:

  • Yellow Fever: Required for visiting the Amazon region.

  • Consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A/B and Typhoid.

• Water Safety:

  • Drink bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice cubes in remote areas.

• Altitude Sickness:

  • In places like Bogotá or the Andes, give yourself time to adjust. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.

4. Cultural Considerations:

• Respect Local Customs: Colombians are friendly, but showing respect for their culture will go a long way.

• Learn Basic Spanish: Few locals speak English, so basic phrases can help.

• Local Advice: Listen to locals' guidance about safe zones and behaviours.

5. Transport Safety:

• Public Transport:

  • Buses: Generally safe, but watch your belongings.

  • Metro (Medellín): Efficient and safe, but be cautious during peak hours.

• Road Safety: Traffic rules may be different or loosely followed. Hire reputable drivers if renting a car.

6. Dealing with Emergencies:

• Keep Copies of Documents: Carry photocopies of your passport and visa, and keep digital backups.

• Know Your Embassy Location: It’s good to have your embassy’s contact info and location handy.

7. Stay Updated:

• Check Travel Advisories: Monitor updates from your government’s travel website.

• Local News: Stay informed about local events or protests, which can affect travel plans.

8. Common Scams:

• ATM Skimming: Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres.

• "Overfriendly" Strangers: Beware of overly helpful people offering unsolicited services.

• Fake Police: Ask for ID and, if in doubt, offer to go to a police station.

Colombia is generally safe for tourists in well-traveled areas. Staying aware and informed ensures a rewarding and worry-free adventure.