Colombia Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Bogotá.

Geography:

Colombia is situated in South America, bordered by the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific Ocean and Panama on the North, Ecuador and Peru on the South, and Venezuela and Brazil on the east. Colombia is home to the Andes, the world’s longest above-water mountain range. The Western and Central Cordilleras of the Andes Mountains are in the west of Colombia – stretching from Ecuador to the Caribbean Sea. The Eastern Cordillera, the longest range, rises northeast from Ecuador to Venezuela.

Colombia is divided into three different climatic zones based on elevation. The Tierra Caliente, meaning hot land, is the region below 900 meters (2,953 ft) in elevation. This region spreads over about 86% of the total area of Colombia. The Tierra Templada, meaning temperate land, ranges between 900 to 1,980 meters (6,496 ft) in elevation and is home to most of the country’s population. The area located between 1,980 and 3,500 meters (11,483 ft) is called The Tierra Fria, meaning cold land. The mean range of temperature there is between 10 and 19°C (50 and 66.2°F).

The combined area of the flat grassy prairies in eastern Colombia and the jungles and towering rainforests of the Amazon in the south covers nearly 55% of Colombia, yet only 3% of Colombians live there.

The tallest peak in Colombia is actually not in the Andes but found in a separate mountain range. It is Pico Cristobal Colon in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta range and has an estimated height of 5,775 metres (18,950 ft).

Getting There

Getting There By Air

The national airline is Avianca (www.avianca.com), which runs direct flights from London and New York to Bogotá. United (www.united.com) also offers direct flights from the USA. Prices are similar year-round, apart from Christmas and Easter, when they tend to increase.

The major airport is: El Dorado International Airport.

Departure Tax

Transit passengers are exempt. Airport departure tax for others leaving the country varies depending on whether you have stayed longer than 60 days and which airline you are travelling with. Theoretically, your tax should be included in the ticket. To establish this, before you check in, you should queue up for the ‘Tax Exemption’ stamp in your passport, and then you can find out how much, if any, departure tax you owe.

Flight Times

From London - 11 hours 30 minutes; New York - 5 hours 40 minutes.

Getting There By Road

Road routes are established and decent from Ecuador into Colombia. The roads into Venezuela are also well paved, but there is frequently border tension and travellers should check the situation before travelling overland between Venezuela and Colombia. It's not possible to drive directly from Brazil or Panama into Colombia, as there are no roads.

While there are no buses crossing the Ecuador border, you can catch a bus to the Colombian border town of Ipiales, cross on foot and hop on another bus at the other side. A reliable Colombian coach service is Bolivariano (tel: +57 1 424 9090; www.bolivariano.com.co). There are some buses crossing the Colombia-Venezuela border.

Getting There By Water

Main ports: Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta and Turnaco (Caribbean coast); and Buenaventura (Pacific coast). Many ships and cruise lines visit these ports from the USA, Mexico, Venezuela, Central America and the Caribbean islands. If you’re travelling by boat from Panama to Colombia, you're most likely to go to Cartagena.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

There is an excellent internal air network connecting major cities, including those in the Caribbean coastal area. There are also local helicopter flights. Flights between the mainland and the islands of San Andrés and Providencia operate from most major Colombian cities. The main domestic carriers are Avianca (www.avianca.com), Lan Colombia (www.lan.com), Copa Airlines (www.copaair.com) and Satena (www.satena.com).

Some areas have no road access, such as the Amazon River border town of Leticia, which must be accessed by air. Other areas have road routes but a flight is far more expedient and not too expensive; for example, Bogotá to Cartagena is a flight of 1 hour 25 minutes, but the bus journey takes 20 hours. Flights are cheaper when bought well in advance, but are still reasonably priced at short notice.

Air Travel Note

When booking domestic flights, it's often easiest to go into a travel company office – some domestic airlines don’t accept international credit cards online.

Bike

Cycling is immensely popular in Colombia and there are all sorts of routes throughout the country, including cross-country missions, several day-long expeditions, mountain bike routes and city cycling. Check out www.mtbcolombia.com (in Spanish) for mountain bike routes and information.

Hostels and hotels in coastal cities and a few in Bogotá lend/hire bikes to guests (less so in mountain cities).

You can buy bicycles in Bogotá and other big cities, but they are generally not cheap. Try www.mercadolibre.com for second-hand bikes. Be safe when cycling – there are many trucks on the roads, and cycling off into the jungle isn’t a good idea.

Breakdown Services

There are no national breakdown services in Colombia; ensure that your insurance covers you for breakdowns in case you need to be rescued by your car hire company.

Car Hire

The major international companies have offices and can arrange for vehicle pick-ups at the airport, but driving in cities is not recommended. Most companies require you to be 25 or over; some allow drivers over 21 but they are subject to a surcharge.

Coach

There are many coach companies running buses to all towns and cities in Colombia. Among them are Bolivariano (tel: +57 1 424 9090; www.bolivariano.com.co), Expreso Brasilia (tel: 01800 051 8001, in Colombia only; www.expresobrasilia.com) and Copetran (tel: 01800 011 4164, in Colombia only; www.copetran.com.co).

Departure Tax

Departure tax for internal flights varies depending on your airline. Some include it in the ticket, others charge separately up to about US$10, but be aware that this situation is ever-changing.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is required; however, many car hire companies will accept a driving licence from your country. Insurance is compulsory.

Getting Around By Rail

Although trains still carry freight, inter-city passenger services are virtually non-existent. A restored steam train, Turistren, runs from Bogotá to Zipaquirá and Cajicá (tel: +57 1 375 0557; www.turistren.com.co).

Regulations

Seat belts in the front seats are mandatory; car seats for children are also mandatory. Children under 10 cannot sit in the front seat. The speed limit is 45-60kph (28-37mph) in urban areas, 80kph (50mph) in rural areas and up to 120kph (75mph) on motorways, but few Colombians keep to these limits. It is forbidden to talk on a mobile phone while driving; again, however, most Colombians disregard this rule.

Getting Around By Road

The quality of the roads in Colombia varies massively. The Panamericana (Panamerican Highway) is mostly well paved, but when you start veering off the beaten track the roads get bumpier. Do not go for an exploratory drive into the jungle or areas deemed dangerous by your embassy. Expect landslides in the more mountainous regions during the rainy season (November to February). City driving is chaotic and dangerous.

Road Classification

There are several toll motorways throughout the country, though narrower and less well-maintained tracks become more frequent when travelling to smaller destinations.

Side Of Road

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Taxi

There are plenty of taxis in the big cities, and they are reasonably cheap. They are also considered fairly safe to hail in the street. You may get charged a bit more for being a tourist; in Bogotá, Cali and Medellín they have taximetros (meters), but in smaller places you have to negotiate the price. Drivers are generally not tipped.

Urban Travel

Bogotá's bus service, TransMilenio (www.transmilenio.gov.co), is the most efficient way to travel round the capital. There are also buseta (shared taxis) which are not expensive and stop on demand. Medellín, Colombia's second largest city, has a metro train service and cable-car lines to hillside suburbs. Travelling on public transport in Colombia is safer than you might assume, but you should always exercise vigilance.

Getting Around By Water

Cargo ships from Cartagena to San Andrés occasionally take passengers, but the trip takes several days. You can obtain information from the Maritima San Andrés office.

The Magdalena River is the main artery of Colombia. Some cargo boats take passengers, though this is a slow way to travel. Paddle steamers no longer run services up and down the river and hiring can be expensive.

From Leticia, on the Peruvian border, a number of operators run sightseeing tours and jungle expeditions up the Amazon. It's necessary to make enquiries locally, and wise to shop around before booking on any one trip.

Travel Advice

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel  

Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• the Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander Department 
• all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca  
• the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño 
• within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela, except for the city of Cúcuta 

FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela's border regions with Colombia. You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. 

Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the whale-watching towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and the tourist site of Capurganá 
• the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura  
• the western part of Cauca Department
• the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department
• the southern part of Córdoba Department
• the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department
• the southern part of Bolívar Department

Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: 

• the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca  
• the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department. 

Central Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José del Guaviare 
• Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department 
• the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales 

If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company. 

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice 

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.  

Get travel advice updates 

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO:    

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of Colombia's current rules for the most common types of travel.  

The authorities in Colombia set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Colombian Embassy in the UK (in Spanish). 

Passport validity requirements 

To enter Colombia, your passport must be valid on entry. However, Colombian immigration authorities recommend your passport has an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave.  

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Dual nationals  

If you're a British-Colombian dual national, you must enter and leave Colombia using your Colombian passport and Colombian identification card (Cedula). 

Visa requirements 

You can visit Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa for business or tourism, at the discretion of the Colombian immigration officer on arrival.  

You must be able to show an onward or return ticket valid within the 90-day period. 

If you have a Colombian visa with more than 90 days of validity, you must register the visa at a Migración Colombia office (in Spanish) or register the visa online within 15 days of arrival in Colombia. If you do not register, you may get a fine. Check the latest entry requirements with the Colombian Consulate General in London before you travel. 

You may be able to extend your stay once you are in Colombia by up to 120 days by applying at the immigration office Migración Colombia (in Spanish). As a visitor, you cannot remain in Colombia for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.

If you overstay your visa, you could be fined, or be deported at your own cost. 

Checks at border control 

If you enter Colombia by land, sea or river, make sure the immigration authorities stamp your passport. If it is not stamped, you could get a fine when you leave. If the immigration office on the border is closed, go to the nearest office of Migración Colombia (in Spanish). 

You must fill in the 'Check-Mig' form between 72 hours and one hour before you travel to Colombia. You will receive a confirmation email that you will need to show to immigration officials when you arrive. 

Travelling through Colombia 

You can travel through Colombia on your way to another country as long as you meet Colombia's entry requirements. You do not need to fill in the 'Check-Mig' form for internal flights in Colombia, including transit flights. 

Travelling with children 

Children aged 17 and under who have resident status in Colombia and who are travelling on a British passport need a notarised letter of permission from any non-accompanying parents or parent (in Spanish). The letter must be authenticated by a notary or by a Colombian consulate. You can get more information from Migración Colombia (in Spanish) or by contacting the Colombian Consulate in the UK (in Spanish). 

San Andres Archipelago 

If you're travelling to the islands of San Andres, Providencia or Santa Catalina, you must buy a tourist card from the boarding gate, on the day of the flight. You do not need one if you're staying less than 24 hours. 

Departure tax 

Departure tax is usually included in the price of the airline ticket, but check with your airline.  

Vaccine requirements  

To enter Colombia, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from certain countries with a transmission risk.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Colombia guide.

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Colombia (in Spanish). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Taking money into Colombia 

You can bring up to 10,000 US dollars-worth of any currency into Colombia. You must declare anything above this amount with the National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) (in Spanish).  

Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad. 

Terrorism in Colombia 

Armed actors 

Despite the landmark peace agreement agreed between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in 2016, many armed groups remain active throughout the country. 

These groups may attack with little or no warning. The focus is predominantly in areas where there are active illicit economies and narco-trafficking and have historically targeted some tourist locations, including:  

• transportation hubs including airports 
• markets and shopping malls 
• local government facilities 
• hotels, clubs and restaurants 
• places of worship 
• parks and other public areas 
• major sporting and cultural events 
• educational institutions 

Police and military personnel and installations are frequently targeted.  

The principal intended target of these attacks is not usually foreign tourists. However, the pattern of these attacks means that incidents in public spaces and other areas visited by foreigners cannot be ruled out. Past methods of attack have included car bombs, grenade attacks and explosive devices left in buildings. You should always remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local security authorities should an incident occur. 

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping rates remain high and widespread in Colombia. Illegal armed groups kidnap hostages – both for ransom and for political purposes. While foreign nationals are not the primary target, there is an increasing trend in the number of foreigners being kidnapped in recent years, particularly those working for (or believed to be working for) oil, mining and related companies where armed groups operate. 

Express kidnappings – short-term opportunistic abductions, aimed at extracting cash from the victim – also happen (see section below on Crime – ATMs and Express Kidnappings).  

Regularly reassess your security arrangements and consider carefully any travel around the country.  

Political situation  

Colombia has suffered from internal armed conflict for over 50 years. In 2016, Colombia's then-President Juan Manuel Santos signed a peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) movement to end the civil war.  

The peace agreement is still in place today, but Colombia remains seriously afflicted by conflict. Delays in the implementation of the peace agreement has led to a resurgence in violence in various parts of the country. Much of this is now between armed groups fighting for control of territory, the cocaine trade, and other illicit economies. 

Protests 

Protests and demonstrations can happen regularly throughout the country and often start at short notice. These events can turn violent and may lead to an increase in police and military presence. Road closures and roadblocks can cause travel disruptions for visitors.  

Avoid protests, strikes and demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities or tour operators if you are affected. Allow extra time to reach your destination and monitor local media, including social media channels. 

There is a heightened risk of violence across the country when elections are held due to the interference of armed groups and criminal gangs in the electoral process. During national and state elections, avoid large gatherings or political rallies and remain vigilant around polling stations.   

Crime 

Drugs, organised crime and terrorism are inextricably linked in Colombia. There's evidence of high levels of coca cultivation in: 

• Nariño Department 
• Cauca Department 
• Putumayo Department 
• Caquetá Department 
• Meta Department 
• Guaviare Department 
• the Catatumbo region in Norte de Santander Department 
• northern Antioquia Department 
• southern Bolivar Department 

There's a risk to your safety in any area where coca, marijuana or opium poppies are cultivated and near to cocaine processing labs. 

Illegal armed groups and criminal gangs are active in all of the departments where coca is cultivated, processed or transported, as well as in many cities. The risk is particularly significant in:  

• rural areas near to the borders with Panama, Venezuela and Ecuador 
• the Parque Nacional Natural de La Macarena in the Department of Meta 
• the port towns of Buenaventura in the Department of Valle de Cauca, Turbo in the Department of Antioquia and Tumaco in the Department of Nariño 

Money laundering, extortion and prostitution rackets are all part of organised crime activity. 

Street crime 

Pickpocketing, mugging and armed robbery are a problem, especially in major cities, including Bogotá, Medellín, Cali and the Caribbean coast. British nationals have been robbed at gunpoint in the Candelaria area of Bogotá and across many cities in Colombia.

Be vigilant, particularly if you are in public places used by foreigners, or near official buildings. Avoid deprived areas of cities. Take care on city streets, especially after dark or if you are on your own. Do not carry large amounts of money or wear expensive jewellery.  

ATMs and Express Kidnappings

Use an ATM during business hours inside a bank, supermarket or large commercial building. Be aware before and after using an ATM on the street – robberies are common, especially at night. 

Victims of express kidnappings can be targeted or selected at random. They are held while criminals empty their bank accounts using their cash cards. Most cases in major cities involve victims that have been picked up by taxis hailed from the street. There have been incidents where those who have resisted the kidnappers' demands have been killed. Dating applications are also increasingly being used as a vehicle for robbery, kidnappings and extortion.

Drug-induced robberies and sexual assaults 

The British Embassy has received reports of criminals in Colombia using drugs to subdue their victims. This includes the use of scopolamine, which temporarily incapacitates victims. Criminals can administer drugs through food, drinks, cigarettes, aerosols and even paper flyers. Victims become disoriented quickly and are vulnerable to robbery, sexual assault, rape and other crimes. 

Dating applications and websites are often used by criminals to identify and lure foreign nationals who are travelling alone and looking to meet local people. Criminals work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security. Victims are incapacitated and robbed. Incidents have been reported in nightclubs, bars, restaurants, public transportation (including taxis) and on city streets. Do not accept invitations from strangers to their accommodations, and do not invite strangers to your accommodation.  

Do not leave food or drinks unattended and do not take anything offered by strangers. These drugs can cause serious medical problems, including loss of consciousness, memory loss and can be fatal if administered in large quantities. Get local medical attention as soon as possible. 

Where possible, plan how you will travel to and from your destination. Only use pre-booked taxis.  

Public offences 

The law against the sexual abuse of children (aged 13 and under) is strictly enforced, especially when it involves tourists. If convicted you could face a long prison sentence.  

The 141 national toll-free line and the Child and Adolescent Police are available for 24-hour protection, emergencies and orientation of children and young people. 

Bogus police scams 

Bogus police are known to operate in Bogotá and elsewhere. They may ask to inspect money to see if it is counterfeit. If approached, ask them to escort you to the nearest local police station (CAI or 'Centro de Atención Inmediata').  

Rural areas 

In many rural areas, the authority of the Colombian state is limited, and the British Embassy's ability to help British nationals in trouble in these areas will also be limited. Mobile and internet connection in rural areas is often limited. 

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal ID 

Carry a colour printout of the photo page and Colombian visa from your passport at all times for identification. 

Alcohol  

It is illegal to consume alcohol in public spaces. 

Illegal drugs  

Do not get involved with illegal drugs of any kind. Colombian drug trafficking detection methods are sophisticated and anyone attempting to traffic drugs can expect to be arrested. British nationals have been arrested and detained for trying to smuggle cocaine out of the country. Prison conditions are harsh. Pack your own luggage and keep it with you at all times. Lock your cases to protect them from tampering. Never carry items for other people. Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common practice among money launderers. 

Colombia has severe penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. 

Spiritual cleansing 

Traditional hallucinogenic tea, known as Yagé or Ayahuasca, is brewed and marketed to tourists as spiritual cleansing. The various preparations typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen that's illegal in the UK and many other countries. 

There are many risks involved. Consumption is not regulated. Intoxicated travellers have been assaulted and robbed. There have also been reports of sexual assaults during these ceremonies. 

Health risks are not well understood and on occasions people have suffered serious illnesses and in some cases death after taking these drugs. The jungle retreats are often a long way from medical facilities making the risks even greater. Some have basic medical services, but others do not. Some do not have an established plan for how you can access medical facilities in case of an emergency. 

Using cameras in secure areas 

Photographing of military or strategic government sites is illegal. 

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex sexual relationships are legal but not widely accepted, especially in rural areas. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

Money 

US dollars and euros are easy to exchange, but only use recognised banks and money exchanges. Do not change money on the street. 

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops and restaurants. Keep the receipts in case you need to show customs what money you have spent when you leave. 

Transport risks  

Road travel 

If you are planning to drive a hire car or a UK vehicle, see information on driving abroad. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Colombia. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.  

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as: 

• a year of driving experience 
• being aged 18 years and over   
• holding an IDP 
• a citizenship card or passport 
• a credit card to guarantee the vehicle hire 

Carry all vehicle documents in physical form, in case you are pulled over by local authorities. 

Driving standards 

Driving standards are poor and traffic accidents are common. Avoid driving at night, which can be particularly hazardous. Do not hitch-hike. The risk of violence and kidnapping is higher in some rural areas, and there is a risk of being caught in roadblocks set up by illegal armed groups. Main roads are generally safe during daylight hours. 

Public transport  

Be cautious when using public transport in Colombia.  

There have been several recent incidents of armed robbery on buses. Avoid displaying valuable items like laptops, cameras and mobile phones. Do not wear jewellery and only carry minimal amounts of cash. Avoid travelling on your own or at night, especially at border crossings or areas where there are few other people around. When travelling to remote areas, it may be safer to travel with others or take part in a tour with a reputable company. 

Taxis 

There have been reports of express kidnappings, assaults and robberies in unlicensed taxis. Use licensed telephone or internet-based taxi services whenever possible or book through your hotel. Many restaurants in Colombia will book a taxi for you. Do not hail taxis on the street. 

El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá only allows authorised taxis to pick up passengers at its terminals. Authorised taxis are yellow with white licence plates and plate numbers on doors and roof. The driver's information will be shown inside the vehicle. Well-known taxi companies can be booked via Uber and Cabify. Authorised taxi booths are present in El Dorado and most airports in Colombia. 

Landmines 

There is a risk from landmines throughout Colombia, especially in rural and remote areas. Mined areas are often unmarked. Be vigilant when visiting remote areas or travelling off the main roads. 

Air travel 

The departmental capitals of Amazonas, Vaupes and Guainía are only accessible by air due to the lack of road infrastructure in these departments. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Hurricanes  

Although uncommon, hurricanes and tropical storms can affect the Caribbean coast and the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina. 

Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Organization weather reports for Colombia, the US National Hurricane Center, the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) and the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM). 

Earthquakes 

There is a high risk of earthquakes across Colombia. Earthquakes occur regularly, particularly in Santander Department and the Andean Region.  

Familiarise yourself with safety procedures and any instructions in your hotel or accommodation. 

If an earthquake happens, monitor local media reports, follow instructions from the authorities and keep essential belongings, such as your passport and money, with you.  

Get real-time information (in Spanish) following an earthquake from the: 

• National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) 
• Colombia's Geological Services 

You can find a real-time earthquake map and further information about earthquakes in Colombia on the Colombia's Geological Services. 

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.  

Flooding  

There is a risk of floods and landslides after heavy rains throughout Colombia, especially in the Colombian Andes. Get local advice before travelling on mountain roads after heavy rain. 

Volcanic eruptions 

There are 25 active and monitored volcanoes in Colombia. Check the latest daily bulletins about volcanic activity (in Spanish).

If you are in areas of volcanic activity, be prepared to make travel arrangements or even follow evacuation plans at short notice. If you are planning to visit affected areas, avoid the area and consider altering travel plans. 

Notify friends and family of your safety, remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local security authorities or your tour operator. 

Monitor local media and get information and advice from the local authorities before travelling on the Pan-American highway, which passes near a volcano. Call 767 for information (in Spanish) from the Colombian Highway Police about road closures. 

If you're planning to visit areas of known volcanic activity, pay careful attention to all warnings and follow the advice of the local authorities. 

This section has safety advice for regions of Colombia. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.  

You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.  

Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• the Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander Department 
• all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca  
• the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño  
• within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela, except for the city of Cúcuta 

FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela's border regions with Colombia. You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. 

Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the whale-watching towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and the tourist site of Capurganá 
• the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura  
• the western part of Cauca Department 
• the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department 
• the southern part of Córdoba Department 
• the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department 
• the southern part of Bolívar Department 

The Pacific coast of Chocó is a popular eco-tourist destination. However, much of Chocó is remote. Illegal armed groups are active and involved in the drugs trade throughout the department and particularly near the border with Panama. If you intend to travel to the whale-watching towns of Bahia Solano and Nuqui, only do so by air and do not travel inland or along the coast out of town. 

Darien Gap 

The 'Darien Gap' is a dangerous area renowned for the presence of several illegal armed groups, illegal migration and drugs trafficking. There's no road crossing between Colombia and Panama. Avoid crossing between Panama and Colombia by land. 

Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: 

• the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca  
• the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department. 

Central Colombia 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José de Guaviare 
• Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department 
• the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales 

If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company.

Water rationing in Bogota

Bogota's Mayor announced plans for water rationing across the city. The rationing plan may affect residential properties, businesses and access to water in different areas of Bogota every 10 days. More information can be found on the Bogota Mayor's website (in Spanish). FCDO encourages British Nationals to review and follow the rationing pattern for neighbourhoods, towns, or any areas that you will visit. Fines may be imposed for irresponsible actions that lead to water waste. For example, washing cars, vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles.

Ciudad Perdida – 'Lost City' 

If you travel to the 'Lost City' in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, only do so as part of an organised tour.

San Agustín Archaeological Park  

The San Agustín Archaeological Park ('Parque Arqueológico de San Agustín') is in the department of Huila. Enter and leave the park on the main road through Neiva or Popayán. 

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Call 123 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Colombia 
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page 

See what health risks you'll face in Colombia, including: 

• Zika 
• malaria and dengue 
• yellow fever 
• Chikungunya 

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Colombia, including Bogotá and areas in the Departments of Cundinamarca, Boyacá, Nariño and Antioquia. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Drinking tap water 

Tap water is safe to drink only in Bogotá. You should drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. 

Medication and prescriptions  

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

You can find most medication in pharmacies in large cities, but medicine for complex treatment may be unavailable in rural areas and small towns. You may need a prescription from a local doctor to get some controlled medicine. 

If you take prescription medication, you will be responsible for determining their legality in Colombia. Always keep your medication in the original container, bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you, pack your medication in your carry-on luggage and carry a copy of your prescriptions. 

Pharmacies in Colombia are known as "droguerías". They can be identified with a cross on the logo and can be easily found in the main cities in Colombia, but are less common in rural areas. Most pharmacies in Colombia will have a delivery service. Prescriptions must be written in Spanish, in the metric system and using the medicine's generic name. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. 

Healthcare in Colombia 

Medical facilities in Colombia vary widely in quality. In large cities and state capitals, private clinics provide good quality care for routine and complex treatment. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. Not all travel health insurance policies provide cover for private or emergency medical care so check your policy before travelling. Public health facilities and those in smaller cities are generally ill equipped and poorly funded. Ambulance services in remote areas are unreliable and public hospitals often lack adequate medical supplies. 

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Colombia where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel. 

Emergency services in Colombia  

Ambulance: 123 

Fire: 119 

Police: 123 

Contact your travel provider and insurer 

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do. 

Refunds and changes to travel 

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first. 

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including: 

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider 
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim 

Support from FCDO 

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including: 

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Colombia 
• dealing with a death in Colombia  
• being arrested or imprisoned in Colombia 
• getting help if you're a victim of crime 
• what to do if you're in hospital  
• if you're affected by a crisis such as a terrorist attack 

Contacting FCDO  

Help abroad   

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.  

Help in the UK   

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.   

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)   

Find out about call charges 

Get travel advice updates   

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.   

Follow and contact FCDO:  

• travel advice on X 

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies  

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Colombia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks. 

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	Sometimes*
Typhoid	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes
Malaria	Sometimes
Hepatitis A	Yes
Diphtheria	Sometimes

Overview:

Although cases of Zika infection in Colombia have dropped dramatically since the initial outbreak in 2015, there is still has a high risk of infection within the country and all travellers are advised to practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times.

The World Health Organisation recommends travellers to Colombia protect themselves from mosquito bites by wearing light-coloured clothes that cover as much of the body as possible, sleeping under mosquito nets and using repellents that contain DEET (diethyltoluamide), IR 3535 ((3- [N-butyl-N-acetyl], aminopropionic acid ethyl-ester) or KBR3023 (also called Icaridin or Picaridin). Pregnant women are advised to postpone non-essential travel until after pregnancy and pregnant women whose sexual partners live in or travel to areas with Zika virus transmission should follow safe sexual practices or abstain from sex for the duration of their pregnancy. Women who are pregnant, at risk of getting pregnant, or planning pregnancy should seek further advice from their doctor before travelling to Colombia.

Health facilities in the main cities are good, and pharmacies stock most drugs at prices that tend to be lower than in the UK or USA. In rural areas, medical services can be very limited and travellers who become ill in remote areas should try to get to a city as soon as possible to be treated. Visitors travelling to jungle areas are advised to carry first aid kits, including antibacterial ointment and coverings for wounds which can become easily infected and not heal well in the humidity. When travelling to the coast or jungle areas, travellers should take DEET-containing insect repellent in order to avoid any mosquito-borne illnesses. Travellers are strongly advised to take out full medical insurance – Colombia has many adventurous activities on offer and you should ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all of them.

Vaccinations Note:

*Under International Health Regulations (2005), a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. It is worth noting that travel to some neighbouring countries, including Ecuador and Venezuela, will likely require the yellow fever vaccination, in which case it is better to get it in your home country rather than having to pay a great deal for it in unhygienic conditions at a border. Check in advance with the authorities of the countries you plan on visiting after Colombia if they require a yellow fever certificate from travellers who have been in Colombia.

International travellers under the age of 39, coming from the Carribean cities like Barranquilla, Cartagena and Sta. Marta are now required to show proof of vaccination against measles.

Food Drink:

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated outside major cities. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Bottled water is widely available throughout the country however, including in rural towns, so you can always make sure you have some. Milk may be unpasteurised in places and should be boiled.

Only eat well cooked meat and fish. When buying food from stalls or markets, try to ensure that the food has not been sitting there for a while, and is kept hot enough to kill germs. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. There is an abundance of fruit available throughout Colombia, which includes pre-cut fruit put into bags and sold on beaches or from stalls in tourist areas. Buying whole fruit from the markets is both cheaper and more hygienic, and will help avoid contamination.

Other Risks:

Vaccination against hepatitis B is sometimes recommended, especially for those spending long periods of time in Colombia or anyone who could have sexual relations with the local population. Hepatitis C occurs. Outbreaks of dengue fever sometimes occur, particularly in areas along the Caribbean coast and in the Chocó, Antioquia, Córdoba, Sucre, Bolivar and Atlántico departments.

Take care when going from sea level to high altitude – if you’re sensitive to it, don’t go on any major hikes the first day you arrive in Bogotá. Allow several days to acclimatise to altitudes over 2,500m (8,200ft). Initial symptoms include headaches, breathlessness (especially when walking up hills), dizziness and nausea. This should pass within 72 hours.

Currency Information:

Colombian Peso (COP; symbol Col$) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of Col$100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000 and 2,000. Coins are in denominations of Col$1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50 and 20. US Dollars are sometimes accepted, but be aware that you may be viewed as a rich tourist if you try to pay with dollars and you might find that the prices go up. Also be aware that there are a large amount of counterfeit US dollars in Colombia, so if you need change, get it in Colombian Pesos.

Credit Cards:

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, American Express and Diners Club less so. There are ATMs throughout the main cities; some will allow cash withdrawals using Visa, MasterCard or Cirrus. Ensure you know the number to call to cancel your card quickly if it is stolen, and inform your bank beforehand that you will be travelling to Colombia in case your accounts are frozen upon use.

ATMs:

There are ATMs throughout the main cities; some will allow cash withdrawals using Visa, Mastercard or Cirrus. While the prevalence of ATMs is increasing throughout the country, in smaller, rural towns and villages you should ensure you have enough cash to last until you get back to a bigger city. ATMs can be temperamental, run out of money or not work for you when they worked perfectly well the day before. Try to use ATMs in the daytime rather than after dark, and within banks with security guards if possible.

Travellers Cheques:

The most commonly accepted traveller's cheques are those issued by American Express and Citicorp. Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at banks, hotels or bureaux de change. They are generally not accepted as a form of payment, other than at major hotels. While safe, generally traveller’s cheques should be avoided in case you can find nowhere which will take them; ATMs are a much more efficient way of handling your money. If you do choose to bring traveller’s cheques, make sure you take them in US Dollars.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1500. On the last business day of every month, banks close at 1200.

Currency Restrictions:

The import and export of local and foreign currencies is unlimited, but amounts exceeding the equivalent of US$10,000 must be declared.

Currency Exchange:

Currency should be exchanged at hotels, banks and bureaux de change only, though most places charge commission. Travellers are advised against changing money on the street. The US Dollar is the easiest currency to exchange. When crossing borders, in particular in Ipiales, be very careful with the money changers, and make sure you do the calculations on your own.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
COP	Col$

Exchange Rates

1.00

3125.63

3727.90

3010.40

Language

The official language is Spanish, though there are more than 80 other languages and dialects recognised in the country, belonging to various indigenous peoples. In the San Andrés and Providence Islands, English is also an official language.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

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List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Epiphany	2024-01-06 00:00:00	0
St Joseph's Day	2024-03-25 00:00:00	0
Maundy Thursday	2024-03-28 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2024-03-29 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Ascension Day	2024-05-09 00:00:00	0
Corpus Christi	2024-05-30 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-07-20 00:00:00	0
Battle of Boyac	2024-08-07 00:00:00	0
Assumption	2024-08-15 00:00:00	0
D	2024-10-12 00:00:00	0
All Saint's Day	2024-11-01 00:00:00	0
Independence of Cartagena City	2024-11-11 00:00:00	0
Immaculate Conception	2024-12-08 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0

Overview:

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Banned Imports:

Ammunition and firearms (unless prior authorisation has been obtained), vegetables, plants or plant material, and meat and animal food products.

Telephone:

Most public telephones take phone cards, which you can buy in many shops and kiosks. Many internet cafés also have international phone booths, as well as Skype facilities.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with a few international mobile phone companies. Coverage is limited to urban areas. If your phone is unlocked, you can buy a Colombian SIM card from companies such as Comcel, which will make calls and texts a lot cheaper. You may need identification for this.

Internet:

There are internet cafés in most towns and cities. Most hotels and hostels in bigger cities provide free Wi-Fi, and the connection is usually quite good.

Post

The postal service is not reliable, and travellers are advised to use couriers if sending important documents or packages. There are no traditional post offices, but hotels in major cities offer a postal service.

Post Office Hours:

Variable, but approximately Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and 1400-1600.

Media:

For many years Colombia was a dangerous place for journalists who faced intimidation by drug traffickers, guerrillas and paramilitary groups. In the 1990s, over 120 journalists were killed, many for investigating drug trafficking and corruption. Things have improved, and the law technically provides for freedom of the press, but there is still a long way to go.

The main papers are El País and El Tiempo; English-language papers are not prevalent. Colombia has five national TV channels: Caracol TV, RCN TV, Señal Colombia, Canal Institucional and Canal Uno. There are other local channels.

Visit vibrant Medellín

The second largest city in Colombia, Medellín is modern and vibrant, having shaken off its association with violent drug cartels. Today, the pleasantly warm 'City of Eternal Spring' has a lively young community of university students, with a lot of time for the arts. Visit the museums and parks, learn to tango and embrace the serious nightlife on offer. The annual Festival of Flowers in August is superb.

Shake your hips in Cali

Colombia's capital of salsa, the southern city of Cali is the place to go for all-night hip swinging. Dress to impress in the salsa clubs, many of which are found in the Barrio Juanchito, which gets going at 0200 and doesn't stop until 0600. During the day explore San Antonio, the historical centre, or visit one of the highly rated museums.

Tour the Zona Cafetera (Coffee Zone)

Colombia is famous for its coffee, and you can take a trip to this region of gently rolling hillsides, visiting the coffee haciendas and hiking, cycling or horseback riding through the countryside, trying different coffees along the way. The triangle is made up of Quindío, Caldas and Risaralda departments, with plenty of towns in the area in which to stay.

Pop down to Popayán

A great town to visit en route to the south, Popayán is a vision of beautifully restored colonial architecture. Wander around the stunning streets and visit the beautiful churches, in particular Belén, which is perched on a hilltop and provides lovely views. Easter week processions here are particularly impressive and nearby are the pre-Columbian tombs in Tierradentro National Park.

Travel back in time to Santa Cruz de Mompox

Known simply as Mompox, this tiny colonial gem is off the main tourist path due to its comparative inaccessibility, but it's worth the trip by bus and boat. With its well-preserved architecture, the town has a sleepy, friendly feel about it. Simon Bolivar was one of its most famous residents, and Gabriel Garcia Márquez based his classic, One Hundred Years of Solitude, on the town.

Head for the dizzying heights of Bogotá

Perched high in the Andes, the Colombian capital has an attractive mix of swish, modern neighbourhoods and windy streets overlooked by a mountainous vantage point (take the cable car up for great sunset views). Historical landmarks include the Capitolio Nacional and the cathedral on the main square, Plaza Bolivar. The star attraction, however, is the magnificent Gold Museum; its collection of pre-Columbian treasures is probably the finest in South America.

Drift through the Amazon

Take a jungle tour into the Amazon basin, which covers almost one-third of Colombia's territory. Boat trips depart from Leticia, in the Amazonas region to the nearby Amacayu National Park. Tours often include visits to indigenous tribes, sleeping in hammocks slung in straw-roofed malocas. The park is prone to closure following flooding, so check the latest information before departure.

Climb Nevado del Ruiz

Climb the snow-capped Nevado del Ruiz: the 5,400m (17,717ft) peak is one of five permanently white-tipped volcanoes in Los Nevados National Park in the coffee region. Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are regular occurrences here, though hikers enjoy the benefits of hot springs bubbling from the mountainsides. Guided treks are available from Manizales, one of the main hubs for visitors.

Get wet and wild

Colombia offers a host of adventures for watersports lovers. Dive into the species-rich tropical waters of the UNESCO Seaflower Biosphere Reserve around San Andrés and Providencia. Other diving hotspots include the Islas del Rosario and Tayrona National Park. Raft the rapids on the Rio Negro in Cundinamarca and Fonce or kayak through the Chicamocha canyon in Santander.

Cycle around car-free Bogotá

Cycle or skate along car-free roads in central Bogotá on Sundays and holidays from 0700 to 1400, when 121km (75 miles) of the capital's streets are transformed into ciclovías (cycleways). Cycling-mad Colombia also has many ideal countryside routes, where mountain-biking and touring groups operate, including the temperate hillsides of the Zona Cafetera.

Puzzle over San Agustín’s mysterious statues

Weave your way around more than 500 mysterious pre-Columbian stone statues and tombs in one of South America's most fascinating archaeological sites, San Agustín, in the southern Cordilera Central. Thought to date back some 3,000 years, this is the largest group of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures on the continent, relating to one of the earliest Andean settlements.

Look for pirate treasure in the Caribbean

Fly to the tropical islands of San Andrés and its smaller sibling Providencia, two of Colombia's most idyllic retreats, off the Caribbean coast. San Andrés was once the headquarters of the English pirate Captain Henry Morgan, with an offshore underwater cave reputed to be the site of his buried loot, and a nearby museum dedicated to local pirate lore.

Take a hike to the Ciudad Perdida

Climb high into the jungle-covered Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to the archaeological ruins of the Ciudad Perdida ('Lost City'), discovered in 1976. This six-day trek is not for the faint-hearted, but is one of Colombia's most rewarding adventures.

Soak up the colonial charms of Cartagena

One of South America's prettiest colonial towns, charming Cartagena brims with history and is more than a little easy on the eye. The former home of author, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, visitors can take literary tours of the city, explore cobbled streets and sip coffee beneath beautiful blooms of bougainvillea. Once you've had your culture fix, take a trip to nearby coral islands, which abound with beaches, labyrinthine mangrove forests and colourful coral reefs.

Explore the jungle and beaches of Tayrona National Park

With its stunning Caribbean location, the Tayrona National Park, close to Santa Marta, is one of the country's most popular parks. Spilling down from the northern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, it boasts coral reefs, sheltered bays, beautiful beaches, mangroves and wildlife-rich jungle. Get back to nature but don't forget to pack your mosquito repellent.

Party at Carnival in Barranquilla

Once a year, the industrial port of Barranquilla is transformed by one of the world's biggest carnivals, second in size only to Rio de Janeiro's event, and attracting visitors from around the globe. The main parades take place on the four days preceding Ash Wednesday, when the city streets are filled with thousands of costumed dancers, gyrating to the lively Caribbean rhythms.

Delve into the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

The colonial city of Zipaquirá is home to one of Colombia's most popular attractions: a cathedral made of sale. Inaugurated in 1954, the underground church was hewn out of the mountain, deep within a salt mine near the city. Stalactites and specks of salt mingle with crosses and chapels to create a glowing spiritual atmosphere.

Marvel at Botero’s artwork in Bogotá

One of Latin America's most famous modern artists is Colombian Fernando Botero and visitors can wander among some of his characteristically voluptuous sculptures in the Plaza Botero, found in Bogotá's La Candelaria. Around 120 of his paintings, as well as an impressive collection of Impressionist and modern art, are on display at the Museo Botero, also in La Candelaria.

Overview

Goods to look out for include gold jewellery, art, antiques and leather products. Colombia produces first-grade precious stones, and the emeralds are among the most perfect in the world. Shopping for these should only be undertaken if you know what you’re doing however; incidents of cheating are high. Try to get recommendations of reputable dealers and acquire some knowledge before shopping for precious stones.

Bogotá has numerous large shopping malls as well as several distinct shopping districts. Try the Zona Rosa for designer clothes and high-end jewellery stores, and La Candelaria for independent, unique shops.

In Cali you can find authentic handicrafts and goods from all over the country in the Parque Artesanía – perfect for souvenirs. Cali also has some ultra-modern shopping malls, such as Chipichape, offering more generic produce such as clothes and shoes at prices not much less than you would pay at home. These malls contain bars and restaurants for you to make an evening of your shopping trip, as well as big food courts serving a mixture of North American and Colombian fast food.

You can buy Colombian coffee throughout the country, not just in the Zona Cafetera, but if buying as a gift bear in mind that it might be opened at Customs. Also take care when buying souvenirs made of skin or feather – cultural artefacts and items of animal origin such as the above are prohibited.

Opening Hours

In colder cities such as Bogotá, typically Mon-Sat 1100-2100. In hotter cities, Mon-Sat 0900-2100.

Overview

From hearty meat, potato and yucca-based Andean stews, to Caribbean seafood, Colombian cuisine is varied and tasty, with a touch of Spanish influence. Add to this the fruits of the Amazon, and you have a rich array of edible delights.

The international food found in bigger cities is generally of an excellent standard and vegetarians are well catered for – though they may struggle outside of Bogota and Medellin. You can find delicious seafood on the coasts, particularly along the Caribbean, where dishes are often flavoured with coconut and served with rice.

To save money, try menús del día (menus of the day), which tend to be the most affordable way to eat out. Expect some soup, rice, a piece of meat or fish and an arepa (see below) or two. Colombian wines are generally of poor quality, but Chilean and Argentinian wines are available at a price. Beer and rum-based drinks are the norm, and both are quite cheap.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

A 10% tip is usual in restaurants. Often added to the bill as a "propina voluntaria", everyone pays it as long as the service is good.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

Hotels in Colombia vary widely in size and quality; they range from pocket-sized hospedajes (guest houses) in humble homes to huge 5-star establishments. It is advisable to choose hotels recommended by the official Colombian Hotel Association (COTELCO) (www.cotelco.org). There is a star grading system similar to that operating in Europe.

Camping Caravaning

Camping is not necessarily available throughout Colombia, as certain areas would be far too dangerous for camping. But there are certain areas in which you'll find campsites, including along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts (most famously within Tayrona National Park, where hiring a tent is the cheapest form of accommodation) and around Lago Calima. You will also find yourself camping if doing a multi-day hike, such as to the Lost City, but tour companies will provide camping equipment in these cases.

Other

History

Prior to the Spanish invasion, the land comprising modern-day Colombia was ruled by various Amerindian tribes who traded with each other and established their own civilisations. The two main tribes were the Taironas, who were largely based in the Caribbean, and the Muiscas, who were settled in the highlands around Bogotá. To this day, indigenous peoples who have descended from the Taironas live in Tairona National Park.

Now named after Christopher Columbus, Colombia in its present form has only existed since the 1800s. The Spanish conquistadors grouped it with modern-day Venezuela, Ecuador and parts of Brazil and Central America; they called this vast territory New Granada and ruled it from Europe.

The desire for independence soon followed, however, when discontent among mixed-race Creoles, lower-class Spanish immigrants and indigenous people spread, here and all across the continent. This eventually led to the 1819 rebellion under the legendary figure of Simón Bolívar, which resulted in the area being split into the four provinces of Gran Colombia: Panama, Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela. Colombia separated from the others soon after Bolívar's death in 1830.

The Republic of Colombia was formally established in 1855, four years after the abolition of slavery. Over the next 100 years, politics were dominated by the Conservative-Liberal feud, which often broke out into warfare. Occasionally, however, the two parties united against a common threat. This occurred in 1970, when they prevented a bid for power by the Alianza Nacional Popular (ANAPO), led by former dictator, General Rojas.

Colombia has since had to handle various guerrilla movements against the government, such as from disaffected members of ANAPO, the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC, Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces) and the Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN, National Liberation Army).

The 1980s saw drug traffickers become a potent force in Colombia: large sums of money turned into political power, and leading politicians increasingly became tainted by their connections with drug money. Successive US governments, having pinpointed Colombia as the principal source of drugs flowing into the USA, put increasing pressure on the Colombians to fight the 'war on drugs'.

In 2000, the US Clinton administration unveiled Plan Colombia, a controversial initiative aimed at fighting cocaine cartels and left-wing insurgents. This included the aerial fumigation of coca plantations, which destroyed the crops of innocent farmers and has been blamed for birth defects in rural communities.

Over the last decade, Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation: the guerrillas have – mostly – accepted peace agreements and drug-related violence has fallen; tourism is once again booming. In September 2016, President Juan Manuel Santos signed an historic peace agreement with Colombia's leftist FARC rebels to end the country's 53-year conflict.

Did you know?
• Infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar reportedly offered to pay Colombia's national debt of $10bn to improve his reputation.
• Colombia is the self-proclaimed cycling capital of South America; Bogotá has more than 250km (155 miles) of dedicated bicycle routes.
• The town of Yarumal has the world’s highest incidence of Alzheimer’s, described in 100 Years of Solitude by writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez, who was himself a victim of the disease.

Religion

Christianity, with 90% Roman Catholic; small Protestant and Jewish minorities.

Social Conventions

Normal courtesies should be observed. It is customary to offer guests black Colombian coffee, well sugared, called tinto. Spanish style and culture can still be seen in parts of the country, although in Bogotá, North American attitudes and clothes are becoming prevalent. Casual clothes can be worn in most places; formal attire will be necessary for exclusive dining rooms and social functions. Smoking is allowed except where indicated.

Best Time To Visit:

Colombia’s weather offers all four seasons and they remain generally unchanged throughout the year due to Colombia’s proximity to the equator. The topographical diversity of Colombia means that you will find snowy mountain peaks, warm Caribbean beaches and a rainy tropical rainforest at any time of year. This makes the Colombian climate extremely unique and attracts an increasing number of visitors annually.

Bogota, the largest city and capital, is situated in the Eastern Andes region and the weather is generally spring-like. Although sunny days can still get quite hot, there are many cool days and nights. The average high temperature throughout the year hovers around 20°C (68°F). For more information about weather in Bogota and things to do there, check out our Bogotá guide.

Located in Northern Colombia on the Caribbean coast, Cartagena is another popular spot for tourists. It is a port city known for rich history and beautiful beaches. With temperatures rarely dropping below 30°C (86°F), Cartagena’s climate is perfect for those looking for a warmer, relaxing vacation. You can learn more about Cartagena here.

The Amazon region is a place where tourists go to explore the jungle and marvel at the unique species of plants and animals. Located in southern Colombia, the Amazon basin generally stays warm all year round and finds little relief from rain.

Although the seasons are unchanging, the best time of year to visit Colombia is December to March. These are the drier months and allow tourists to enjoy more outdoor activities. Major religious holidays will also impact the best time of year to visit. Santa Semana, Holy Week in April, is a stunning time to travel to Colombia. There are ostentatious celebrations and candle-lit mass services to celebrate the Catholic faith. But, hotels book up fast for this week and double their rates, so it is smart to plan in advance.

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Required Clothing

Generally, Colombia’s weather requires light clothing suitable for warm to hot weather. However, if you are staying in a city in the Andes such as Bogotá, long shirts and pants are recommended – preferably a jacket as well.

If you are planning to hike in the colder mountainous regions you’ll need durable boots. Breathable walking sandals with good support are recommended for more rural areas. If you are visiting the Amazon, light clothing is required, but long sleeves and trousers for the evenings are useful to prevent mosquito bites. No matter where you are staying, a waterproof jacket is smart to bring for any time of year.

Dialing Code:

+57

Area(sq km):

1141748

Population:

50.882.891

Population Density(per sq km):

43.9

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

123