Quick answer

Colombia is a diverse, welcoming country with vibrant cities, Caribbean beaches, Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands. With sensible precautions and awareness of local customs, you can travel safely and enjoyably.

Visa & entry requirements

• Many nationals (US, Canada, EU, Australia, etc.) can enter visa-free for 90 days; check your country's bilateral rules as lengths differ. Extendable once to 180 days in a calendar year by applying at Migración Colombia.
• Passport must be valid for the length of stay; some airlines may require 6 months remaining—confirm before travel.
• Tourist stays typically require proof of return/onward ticket and accommodation info. No mandatory vaccinations for most travelers, but yellow fever vaccination is recommended and required if arriving from certain countries or for travel to some regions (Amazon areas). Carry vaccination card if applicable.
• Customs: declare large sums of cash (>USD 10,000 equivalent) and certain goods. Bring prescriptions for controlled medications with copy of prescription.

Best time to visit

• High season: December–March (dry in the Caribbean/Caribbean coast) and July–August. Expect higher prices and more tourists.
• Andean highlands (Bogotá, Medellín): two rainy seasons (Apr–May, Oct–Nov). Pleasant year-round but cooler in Bogotá, pack layers.
• Caribbean coast (Cartagena, Santa Marta): dry season Dec–Apr is ideal; Amazon: drier Jun–Sep can be easier for travel.
• Tailor timing to region rather than whole country—Colombia’s climate varies with altitude and coast.

Safety tips

• Most visits are safe when using common-sense precautions: stay in well-reviewed neighborhoods, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and use registered taxis, ride-hailing apps (Beat, DiDi) or hotel-arranged transport.
• Keep copies of passport and important documents; use hotel safes for valuables.
• Petty theft and pickpocketing occur in crowded tourist spots and public transit—keep valuables secure and use anti-theft bags.
• Avoid showing large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry; use ATMs in banks or malls rather than on the street.
• Check local travel advisories for border regions (e.g., parts of the Pacific, jungle border areas) and follow guidance from local authorities and tour operators for remote excursions.

Local customs & etiquette

• Colombians are warm and polite. Handshakes are common; friends may hug or kiss on the cheek (one kiss typical) in social settings.
• Manners: be punctual for business; social meetings can be more relaxed about time.
• Language: Spanish is the national language. Learning basic phrases (hola, gracias, por favor) is appreciated; English is common in tourist areas but less so in rural zones.
• Tipping: service charge sometimes included; otherwise tip 10% in restaurants if service is good and round up for taxis.

Currency & money

• Currency: Colombian peso (COP). Cash is important in smaller towns and markets; major cities accept cards widely.
• ATMs available in cities; carry small bills and coins for buses, markets, tips.
• Credit cards accepted in many restaurants, hotels, and shops. Notify your bank of travel to avoid blocks.
• Exchange money at banks, authorized casas de cambio or withdraw local currency at ATMs. Avoid changing large sums on the street.

Transportation

• Domestic flights: efficient for long distances (Bogotá–Cartagena–Medellín). Airlines: Avianca, LATAM, Viva Air, Wingo.
• Buses: extensive network for intercity travel; comfort ranges from basic to executive coaches. Night buses save time/money but consider safety and comfort.
• Urban transport: Bogotá has TransMilenio BRT (crowded at peak hours), Medellín has metro, cable cars and good public transit. Use ride-hailing apps (Beat, DiDi, Uber is restricted but often available) or registered taxis.
• Driving: roads can be narrow and traffic heavy; use caution, especially at night and in rural areas. Renting a car is useful for some regions but not necessary for city stays.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Altitude: Bogotá is ~2,640 m (8,660 ft)—expect cooler temps and possible altitude effects. Acclimatize, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous exertion the first day.
• Weather gear: pack layers for highlands, lightweight breathable clothes for coast/jungle, and a good rain jacket for sudden showers.
• Food & water: street food is delicious—choose busy, well-regarded vendors. In most places tap water is safe in big cities, but in rural/tropical areas drink bottled or filtered water if unsure.
• Safety apps & contacts: save local emergency numbers (National: 123), your embassy contact, and addresses of your accommodations.
• Culture & experiences: try regional specialties (arepas, bandeja paisa, ceviche on the coast), visit coffee region (Eje Cafetero), Cartagena’s old town, Medellín’s transformation sites, Tayrona National Park, and Caño Cristales or Amazon excursions with reputable guides.
• Festivals: Carnival (Barranquilla) in Feb/March, Feria de las Flores (Medellín) in Aug—book early if visiting for events.

Final practical checklist

• Check visa rules for your nationality and passport validity.
• Get travel insurance covering health and activities (trekking, water sports if planned).
• Carry copies of important docs, local SIM or roaming plan, enough cash for first day.
• Learn basic Spanish phrases, download offline maps and translation apps, and book trusted transfers for arrival.

Enjoy your trip—Colombia rewards travelers who explore its regions with curiosity, respect, and common-sense precautions.