🇨🇴 Your Authentic 3-Day Colombia Itinerary

A guided walking tour of La Candelaria is highly recommended to get your bearings and understand the deep history of the area. Local guides offer fascinating insights into the architecture, political history, and legends of the neighborhood. These tours often point out hidden gems you might otherwise miss. For a more niche experience, consider a specific street art and graffiti tour, as La Candelaria is famous for its incredible murals that tell the story of Bogotá’s social and political landscape. This offers a modern, edgy counterpoint to the colonial history.

Another fantastic option for the afternoon is an emerald workshop tour. Colombia is the world’s leading producer of high-quality emeralds, and Bogotá is the center of the trade. Several workshops in La Candelaria offer short, informative tours where you can learn about the mining, cutting, and polishing process from the experts. It’s a unique opportunity to see these precious gems up close and learn how to identify their quality, offering a different perspective on one of Colombia’s most famous natural treasures without any pressure to buy.

For Young Travelers: After the museums, explore the lively student area of Chorro de Quevedo, the supposed founding site of Bogotá. It’s filled with small bars where you can try chicha, a traditional fermented corn drink. In the evening, check out the independent cinemas or small theatres in La Candelaria for a taste of the local arts scene. The neighborhood has a bohemian, energetic vibe that is perfect for backpackers and younger visitors.

For Seniors: The high altitude of Bogotá requires a slow pace on the first day. The streets of La Candelaria are steep and cobbled, so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. The Gold Museum and Botero Museum are excellent, low-impact activities with elevators and places to rest. Consider using a taxi or a ride-sharing service to get between sites if you feel tired, rather than walking the steeper streets. Drink plenty of water and listen to your body.

For Families: The Botero Museum, with its whimsical and often humorous art, is usually a hit with children. The Gold Museum’s dazzling displays can also capture their imagination. The wide-open Plaza de Bolívar is a great place for kids to chase pigeons, a classic Bogotá pastime. Many cafes in La Candelaria offer delicious hot chocolate served with cheese (chocolate con queso), a fun and traditional treat for the whole family to try.

For Travelers with Disabilities: La Candelaria’s historic nature, with its narrow, steep, and uneven cobblestone streets, presents significant challenges for wheelchair users. The main Plaza de Bolívar is flat and accessible. Both the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators. It is best to use accessible taxis to travel between the plaza and the museums to avoid the difficult terrain of the side streets.

For Luxury Travel: Stay in a luxury boutique hotel in a restored colonial mansion in La Candelaria. Arrange for a private, bilingual guide for a personalized tour of the museums and historic center, tailored to your interests in art, history, or architecture. In the evening, enjoy a reservation at one of Bogotá’s top restaurants, perhaps in the nearby Macarena district, known for its fine-dining establishments and bohemian-chic atmosphere.

For Adventure Travel: Join a Bogotá bike tour. This is a fantastic way to cover more ground, see different neighborhoods beyond La Candelaria, and get a dynamic overview of the city. These tours often include a visit to a coffee roaster, a fruit market, and various street art locations, providing a comprehensive and active introduction to the city’s culture and daily life. It’s a great way to orient yourself on the first day.

For Nature Lovers: While the day is focused on the urban core, you can find a touch of nature at the nearby Journalists’ Park (Parque de los Periodistas). For a more significant green experience, visit the Quinta de Bolívar, the former residence of Simón Bolívar, which has beautiful and tranquil gardens to stroll through. It provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets and a glimpse into the history of South American independence.

For a 3-day trip focused on culture and history, staying in or near La Candelaria is a fantastic option. This area is home to charming boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses set within beautifully restored colonial buildings, offering a truly atmospheric stay. However, the area can be very quiet at night. For those who prefer a more modern and bustling environment with a wider array of restaurants and nightlife, the neighborhoods of Chapinero or the Zona Rosa (also known as Zona T) are excellent choices. They are a 20-30 minute taxi ride from the historic center but offer a different, more contemporary side of Bogotá life.

Luxury travelers will find high-end international hotel chains and chic design hotels in the northern neighborhoods, particularly around Zona G (the Gourmet zone) and Usaquén. Mid-range options are plentiful in Chapinero, which offers great value and a local, trendy vibe. Budget travelers will find many well-regarded hostels and guesthouses in La Candelaria, which are perfect for meeting other travelers. The choice of neighborhood really depends on the atmosphere you’re looking for.

• Luxury: Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia
• Mid-Range: BS Rosales Hotel
• Budget: Masaya Bogotá

The single most important tip for your first day in Bogotá is to take it easy and acclimatize to the altitude. At 2,640 meters (8,660 feet), you may feel symptoms like mild headache, shortness of breath, or fatigue. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals and excessive alcohol, and don’t push yourself too hard. The local remedy for altitude sickness is coca tea (mate de coca), which is legally available in cafes and hotels and can be very effective. A slow-paced walking day is the perfect way to adjust.

Regarding safety in La Candelaria, it is a well-policed area during the day and busy with tourists and students. However, it’s wise to be cautious. Keep your valuables out of sight, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking in deserted alleys. At night, the area becomes very quiet, and it is strongly recommended to take a licensed taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Cabify, even for short distances, rather than walking alone.

Bogotá’s weather is often described as “eternal autumn.” Due to its high altitude, the city has a cool, temperate climate year-round. Temperatures are typically mild during the day (around 18-20°C / 64-68°F) but can drop significantly at night. The weather is also very changeable, with sunny spells often giving way to sudden rain showers. Therefore, the key to dressing for Bogotá is layering.

Wear a base layer like a t-shirt or long-sleeved top, a sweater or fleece, and a light waterproof and windproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely essential for the cobblestone streets of La Candelaria. A pair of jeans or comfortable trousers will be perfect. Always carry a small umbrella. While it’s not a hot climate, the sun at this altitude can be very strong, so sunscreen is also a must-have item for your day bag.

La Candelaria is home to some of Bogotá’s most traditional and historic restaurants. For an authentic lunch, head to La Puerta Falsa, a tiny, iconic restaurant that has been serving food since 1816. Here you must try the ajiaco, Bogotá’s signature dish—a hearty chicken and potato soup served with corn, capers, and cream. Another must-try is the tamal, a delicious corn masa patty filled with chicken and vegetables, steamed in a plantain leaf. It’s a perfect, warming meal for the cool climate.

In the afternoon, stop at a local cafe for a “tinto” (a small, black coffee) or the famous “chocolate con queso” (hot chocolate served with a slice of mild cheese that you drop into the drink). For dinner, you could stay in La Candelaria and try another traditional spot, or take a short taxi ride to the La Macarena neighborhood. This bohemian area is known for its excellent and diverse restaurant scene, with options ranging from Colombian to international cuisine in a trendy, artistic setting.

From El Dorado International Airport (BOG), the most secure and convenient way to get to your hotel is by using a licensed taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Cabify. For taxis, it’s best to use the official stands inside the airport where you pre-pay at a kiosk or use an authorized taxi app. Avoid hailing unmarked cabs outside the terminal. The journey to La Candelaria or Chapinero typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Once you are in La Candelaria, the best way to explore the neighborhood is on foot. Its narrow, historic streets are made for walking. To travel longer distances, for example from La Candelaria to the northern neighborhoods, ride-sharing apps like Uber, Didi, or Cabify are the most popular, safe, and convenient option for tourists. Bogotá also has a bus rapid transit system called the TransMilenio, which is very efficient but can be extremely crowded and requires a specific card (Tullave), making it more challenging for short-term visitors.

To enhance your visit to Monserrate, go early in the morning. The skies are typically clearer, offering better views before the common afternoon clouds roll in. While up there, take time to walk around the church and browse the small market stalls selling souvenirs and traditional snacks. For a more adventurous and challenging experience, you can also choose to hike the stone pilgrimage trail to the summit. This is a strenuous, high-altitude walk and should only be attempted if you are well-acclimatized and physically fit.

In the afternoon, a guided food tour through the Chapinero and Zona G neighborhoods is an excellent way to experience the city’s modern culinary scene. These tours take you to several different eateries, from specialty coffee shops to innovative restaurants, allowing you to sample a wide variety of contemporary Colombian flavors and learn about the country’s gastronomic revolution from a local expert. It’s a delicious way to explore a new part of the city and discover hidden culinary gems.

For Young Travelers: After Monserrate, spend the afternoon exploring the trendy Chapinero Alto neighborhood. It’s filled with independent cafes, craft beer pubs, design shops, and a cool, youthful vibe. In the evening, the Zona Rosa is the epicenter of Bogotá’s nightlife, with numerous clubs and bars playing everything from salsa and reggaeton to electronic music. It’s the perfect place to experience the city’s “rumba” (party) culture.

For Seniors: The cable car (teleférico) is a more stable and comfortable option than the funicular railway for ascending Monserrate. The summit is paved and relatively flat around the church, making it easy to walk around and enjoy the views. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely, high-end lunch in Zona G, followed by some relaxed window shopping in the Andino or El Retiro shopping centers in Zona Rosa, which are modern and accessible.

For Families: The ride up Monserrate on the cable car will be a thrilling experience for children. The wide-open spaces at the top are great for them to enjoy. In the afternoon, after a family-friendly lunch, consider a visit to the nearby Parque 93. This is a large, beautiful urban park surrounded by cafes and restaurants, with a playground where kids can run around and play in a safe and pleasant environment.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Both the funicular and the cable car to Monserrate are wheelchair accessible. The main viewing areas and the path to the church at the summit are also paved and accessible, making this a fantastic activity for everyone. The modern northern neighborhoods like Zona G and Zona Rosa are much more accessible than La Candelaria, with flatter sidewalks and modern, accessible shopping centers and restaurants.

For Luxury Travel: After Monserrate, indulge in a multi-course tasting menu at one of Zona G’s top-rated restaurants, such as El Chato or Leo, which have been featured on lists of the world’s best restaurants (reservations are essential and must be made weeks or months in advance). Spend the afternoon on a private shopping tour of Zona Rosa’s designer boutiques, followed by cocktails at a chic rooftop bar with city views.

For Adventure Travel: For the ultimate adventure, hike the pilgrimage trail up Monserrate. The trail is well-maintained but steep and challenging at this altitude. It’s a popular activity with locals on weekends. In the afternoon, instead of just dining, take a hands-on cooking class in Chapinero to learn the secrets of contemporary Colombian cuisine, from preparing ceviche to making arepas with unique toppings.

For Nature Lovers: For an alternative to the urban afternoon, after visiting Monserrate, take a taxi to the José Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden. It is Bogotá’s largest botanical garden and showcases a huge variety of Colombian flora from different climate zones, including a stunning collection of orchids in the Amazon greenhouse. It’s a peaceful and beautiful green space that offers a deep dive into the country’s incredible biodiversity.

Staying in Chapinero or the Zona Rosa/Zona G area is the perfect choice for this day’s itinerary. These neighborhoods place you right in the heart of Bogotá’s best dining and nightlife scene. Chapinero is a large, diverse district, with the upper part (Chapinero Alto) being particularly known for its trendy, bohemian vibe and independent businesses. The Zona Rosa is more concentrated and upscale, with luxury hotels, international brands, and the city’s most popular bars and clubs. These areas are generally considered very safe and are perfect for evening strolls.

This part of the city offers a vast array of accommodation options. You will find major international hotel chains like JW Marriott and Four Seasons, alongside a fantastic selection of independent design hotels and stylish serviced apartments. There are also many excellent mid-range and budget-friendly options, particularly in the Chapinero Central area. The convenience of being able to walk to a huge variety of world-class restaurants and bars for dinner is a major advantage of staying in this part of Bogotá.

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá
• Mid-Range: The Click Clack Hotel Bogotá
• Budget: Selina Chapinero Bogotá

The weather at the top of Monserrate can be significantly cooler and windier than in the city below, and conditions can change rapidly. Be sure to bring an extra layer of clothing, such as a jacket or sweater. The sun can also be very strong at this altitude (over 3,150 meters / 10,300 feet), so wear sunscreen even if it’s cloudy. Try to plan your visit for a weekday morning if possible, as it gets extremely crowded with both pilgrims and tourists on weekends, especially on Sundays.

When exploring the Zona Rosa at night, while it is a safe and upscale area, it’s still important to be vigilant. Stick to well-lit main streets, and be aware of your surroundings and your drink when in bars or clubs. Using a trusted ride-sharing app or a licensed taxi is the recommended way to get back to your hotel late at night, rather than walking long distances or hailing a cab on the street. It’s a vibrant and fun area, and taking these simple precautions will ensure you have a great time.

For your trip up Monserrate, dressing in warm layers is key. The temperature at the summit will be noticeably colder than in the city. A warm fleece or sweater and a windproof/waterproof jacket are highly recommended. If you plan to hike, wear proper hiking shoes. If you are taking the cable car, comfortable sneakers will be fine. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the strong high-altitude sun.

In the afternoon, you can shed a layer as you explore the northern neighborhoods. The style in Zona G and Zona Rosa is generally more chic and fashion-conscious than in La Candelaria. A smart-casual outfit will fit in perfectly. A nice pair of trousers or dark jeans, a stylish top or shirt, and your jacket will be appropriate for both daytime shopping and an evening dinner in a gourmet restaurant. Comfort is still important, but you might want to opt for slightly dressier footwear than your most worn-in travel sneakers.

At the top of Monserrate, you have a couple of dining options. There are small food stalls selling snacks and Colombian comfort food, but there are also two famous, historic restaurants: Casa San Isidro (French cuisine) and Casa Santa Clara (Colombian cuisine). Having lunch at one of these offers an unforgettable experience, combining good food with spectacular views, though they are quite touristy and can be pricey. It’s a great option for a special occasion.

The main culinary event of the day is in Zona G. This neighborhood is packed with some of the best restaurants in Colombia. You can find everything from innovative Colombian cuisine to high-end Italian, Japanese, and Peruvian establishments. It’s essential to research and book in advance for the top-tier places. For a more casual but equally delicious experience, explore the cafes and bistros of Chapinero Alto. The area is a food lover’s dream, and you can simply walk around and see what catches your eye.

The base of Monserrate is located at the edge of La Candelaria. The easiest way to get there from your hotel is by taking a licensed taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber, Didi, or Cabify. Once there, you can purchase tickets for the cable car (teleférico) or the funicular railway. Both take you to the top and offer great views on the way up. From the base of Monserrate to the northern neighborhoods of Zona G and Zona Rosa is a significant distance, so another taxi or ride-share is necessary.

Once you are in the Zona G / Zona Rosa area, it is very pleasant and safe to explore on foot. The neighborhoods are designed for walking, with tree-lined streets, parks, and shops. You can easily walk from the restaurants of Zona G to the shopping centers and bars of the Zona T (the pedestrianized heart of the Zona Rosa). To get back to your hotel at the end of the day, again, using a ride-sharing app is the most convenient and secure option.

The best way to experience Paloquemao Market is with an open mind and an empty stomach. Consider joining a market tour with a local guide. They can help you navigate the huge space, introduce you to the vendors, encourage you to taste exotic fruits like lulo, granadilla, and pitahaya, and explain the different ingredients that are fundamental to Colombian cuisine. These tours often include sampling fresh fruit juices and other market snacks, making for a delicious and educational morning.

For the afternoon, the Bogotá Graffiti Tour is a legendary activity and one of the best ways to understand the city’s street art. Typically offered for tips, these tours are led by artists and experts who can explain the stories, techniques, and political motivations behind the murals. They provide a fascinating narrative of modern Colombian history and culture through the lens of public art. It’s a dynamic and visually stunning way to spend your final hours in the city, offering a deeper appreciation for the creativity that thrives in Bogotá’s streets.

For Young Travelers: After the street art tour, hunt for a unique souvenir in one of the small, independent design shops in La Candelaria or Chapinero. For a final taste of local life, find a small “panadería” (bakery) and try some classic Colombian baked goods like pan de bono or buñuelos. If you have extra time, the neighborhood of Teusaquillo is also known for its beautiful architecture and emerging arts scene, offering a less-touristy area to explore.

For Seniors: Paloquemao Market is a bustling, crowded place with wet floors in some areas, so be sure to wear shoes with good grip and be mindful of your surroundings. The street art tour involves a lot of walking on uneven sidewalks. A more comfortable alternative is to hire a private guide and car to take you to see some of the most impressive murals without the extensive walking. A final, relaxing coffee at a quiet cafe in Usaquén (a charming, colonial-style northern neighborhood) could be a lovely way to spend the afternoon.

For Families: The colors, smells, and tastes of Paloquemao Market can be a fantastic sensory experience for children. Let them pick out a strange-looking fruit to try. The vibrant and larger-than-life murals of the street art tour can also be very engaging for kids and teens. If you have time before your flight, a visit to the Maloka Interactive Center, a hands-on science and technology museum near the airport, is a fun and educational activity for the whole family.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Paloquemao Market is challenging for wheelchairs due to crowds and uneven, wet surfaces. The street art tour in La Candelaria is also difficult due to the terrain. A better option would be to hire an accessible vehicle and a guide to create a customized “drive-by” tour of the most prominent murals in more accessible areas. The Usaquén neighborhood, with its flatter main square and surrounding restaurants, is a more accessible and pleasant area for a final meal and souvenir shopping.

For Luxury Travel: Arrange for a private tour of Paloquemao Market with a professional chef. They can provide expert insights into the produce and perhaps even purchase ingredients for a private cooking class later. For the street art, commission a private tour with a renowned local artist who can offer a personalized look at the scene. Spend your final hours enjoying the spa facilities at a luxury hotel or doing some last-minute shopping for high-quality Colombian coffee and designer goods.

For Adventure Travel: Get to Paloquemao Market using the TransMilenio bus system for a final, authentic local experience. After the market, participate in a Tejo game. Tejo is Colombia’s national sport, which involves throwing metal pucks at targets containing gunpowder, resulting in small explosions. It’s a loud, fun, and beer-fueled activity that offers a unique cultural immersion and a memorable way to end your trip.

For Nature Lovers: Paloquemao Market is a celebration of Colombia’s incredible biodiversity. Spend extra time in the flower section, which is a testament to why Colombia is one of the world’s top flower exporters. After the market, instead of the street art tour, you could visit the Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park, Bogotá’s largest urban park. It’s a huge green space with lakes and paths, perfect for a relaxing walk and some people-watching before heading to the airport.

On your last day, the location of your hotel should be convenient for both your final activities and your departure. If you have a later flight, many hotels will offer luggage storage after you check out. This is an essential service that allows you to explore the city for the day without your bags. A hotel in Chapinero or near the financial district on Calle 72 offers a good central point between the downtown markets and the main road to the airport (Avenida El Dorado).

For those with very early flights or a desire for ultimate convenience, there are several excellent hotels located very close to El Dorado Airport. These are modern, comfortable, and offer reliable shuttle services, removing any stress about traffic on your departure day. While they lack the charm of a city-center hotel, their practicality for a departure day can be a significant advantage, allowing you to maximize your last hours of sightseeing before a short and easy transfer to the airport.

• Luxury: Grand Hyatt Bogota
• Mid-Range (near Airport): Courtyard by Marriott Bogota Airport
• Budget: Habitación H Becerra

When visiting Paloquemao Market, it’s best to go in the morning when it’s most active and the produce is freshest. Be prepared for a chaotic but friendly environment. Wear closed-toe shoes as the floors can be wet. While it’s a safe place, it’s crowded, so as in any market, keep your wallet and phone secure and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be shy about asking vendors if you can try a fruit; most will be happy to offer you a taste.

Plan your departure to El Dorado airport with plenty of time. Bogotá is notorious for its heavy traffic (“trancones”), especially during peak hours (mornings and late afternoons). For an international flight, you should aim to leave for the airport at least 3.5 to 4 hours before your departure time. It’s always better to be early and relaxed at the airport than to be stressed and stuck in traffic. Confirm your transportation in advance.

For your visit to Paloquemao Market, practical and comfortable clothing is key. Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty and that have a good grip. As you will be on your feet and navigating crowds, comfort is more important than style. The market is covered but can be cool in the morning, so your layered Bogotá outfit of a t-shirt, sweater, and light jacket will be perfect. A bag that you can wear securely, like a crossbody bag, is ideal.

If you have a long flight ahead, your travel comfort should be your top priority. An outfit of comfortable trousers or joggers, a soft top, and a cozy sweater or hoodie is ideal. You can wear this throughout your final day of exploring, as the street art tour is a very casual activity. Having a warm layer for the often chilly airplane cabin will make your journey home much more pleasant.

Lunch today should be at Paloquemao Market itself for the most authentic experience. Inside the market, there is a section with small, bustling eateries (comedores) where the market workers eat. Here you can get incredibly fresh and delicious set meals (corrientazos) for a very low price. A typical meal includes a soup, a main plate with fish or meat, rice, salad, and a fresh fruit juice. It’s a fantastic and truly local culinary experience.

After your market lunch and afternoon tour, you’ll likely just need a coffee or a snack before heading to the airport. Find a cafe to buy some high-quality Colombian coffee beans to take home as a souvenir. You can also grab some classic Colombian cheese breads like pan de bono or almojábanas from a bakery. These are perfect snacks for the ride to the airport or to enjoy while you wait for your flight, providing one last delicious taste of Colombia.

Paloquemao Market is located west of the historic center. The easiest and most direct way to get there from most tourist areas is by taxi or a ride-sharing app like Uber, Didi, or Cabify. The journey should take about 15-20 minutes from La Candelaria or Chapinero, depending on traffic. After the market, you can take another taxi to your chosen location for the street art tour.

For your final journey to El Dorado Airport (BOG), a pre-booked airport transfer, a ride-sharing service, or a licensed taxi is the most reliable option. Ask your hotel to help you book a trusted service. This ensures a fixed price and a safe journey. Make sure to allow a significant buffer for traffic, which can be unpredictable and very heavy, to ensure a stress-free end to your Colombian adventure.

Colombian coffee is world-renowned for its smooth, mild, and well-balanced flavor. The country’s unique geography, with its high-altitude mountains and tropical climate, creates ideal conditions for growing high-quality Arabica beans. A trip to Colombia isn’t complete without delving into its coffee culture. While the best beans were historically exported, a specialty coffee scene is now booming within Colombia, especially in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Salento. You can find numerous specialty cafes where expert baristas prepare exceptional coffee using various brewing methods.

For a deeper experience, consider a visit to the Eje Cafetero (Coffee Axis), a lush, mountainous region where you can stay on a working coffee farm (finca). Here, you can participate in the entire coffee process, from picking the bright red coffee cherries to roasting and tasting the final product. It’s a fascinating and scenic experience that connects you to the heart of one of Colombia’s most important cultural and economic products. Even if you only have a short time, be sure to buy some high-quality, single-origin beans to take home.

Packing for Colombia requires versatility due to its incredibly diverse climates. For high-altitude cities like Bogotá (cool and temperate), you will need layers: t-shirts, sweaters, and a light waterproof jacket. For coastal cities like Cartagena (hot and humid), you’ll need lightweight, breathable clothing like linen and cotton. If you plan to visit the Coffee Region (mild and temperate), pack for warm days and cool evenings, with a rain jacket for frequent showers. A key rule is to pack for the specific regions you will be visiting.

Regardless of destination, essentials include comfortable walking shoes, strong insect repellent (especially for coastal and jungle areas), and high-SPF sunscreen, as the sun is strong throughout the country. A Spanish phrasebook or translation app will be very helpful, as English is not widely spoken outside of major tourist hubs. It’s also wise to bring a reusable water bottle and a water purifier or filter, and to carry a small first-aid kit with any personal medications.

Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades and is now a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. However, like any country, it’s important to travel smartly. In large cities, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid flashing expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash. The local saying “No dar papaya” (literally “don’t give papaya”) means don’t make yourself an easy target. Stick to well-known, reputable areas, and at night, always use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps instead of walking long distances.

Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas like bus stations or markets, so keep your valuables secure. It’s advisable to get travel insurance before your trip. The vast majority of travelers have a trouble-free experience and are met with nothing but warmth and hospitality. By taking standard, common-sense precautions, you can fully enjoy the incredible beauty and culture that Colombia has to offer.

The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). It’s best to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases and in rural areas. ATMs are widely available in cities, and credit cards are accepted in most mid-to-high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans before you go.

Citizens of many countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU member states, do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. You will receive a stamp in your passport upon arrival. Always check the most current visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.

Yes, Colombia is generally safe for tourists, especially in the main tourist areas. The country has made huge strides in security. However, travelers should exercise common sense: be aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps at night. Sticking to tourist routes and avoiding remote, non-tourist areas is also advised.

In major tourist destinations like Cartagena and in high-end hotels and restaurants in Bogotá and Medellín, you will find English speakers. However, outside of these areas, English is not widely spoken. Learning some basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience and will be much appreciated by locals.

The tap water is generally considered safe to drink in major cities like Bogotá and Medellín. However, in coastal and rural areas, it is strongly recommended to drink bottled or filtered water. To be safe, many travelers prefer to stick to bottled water throughout their trip.

It is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. For most travelers, vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid are also recommended. A Yellow Fever vaccination is required by law for entry into certain national parks and is recommended if you are traveling to jungle regions or areas below 2,300 meters. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well before your trip.

Colombian food is hearty, diverse, and delicious. Each region has its specialty. In Bogotá, you must try ajiaco (a chicken and potato soup). On the coast, fresh seafood, coconut rice, and patacones (fried plantains) are staples. Don’t miss trying arepas (corn cakes with various toppings), empanadas, and the huge variety of exotic fruits and fresh juices.

For long distances between cities, flying is the most efficient option, with several low-cost airlines like Wingo and Avianca operating. For shorter distances, a comfortable long-distance bus service is a cost-effective choice. Within cities, ride-sharing apps like Uber, Didi, and Cabify are very popular, safe, and convenient for tourists.

Colombia’s climate is determined by altitude, not seasons. The high-altitude Andes (Bogotá) are cool and spring-like year-round. The Coffee Region is temperate and pleasant. The Caribbean coast (Cartagena) and the Amazon are hot and humid. The country is near the equator, so temperatures are stable, but there are wetter and drier seasons.

Colombia uses Type A and Type B power outlets, the same as those used in North America. The standard voltage is 110V with a frequency of 60Hz. If you are traveling from North America, you will not need a voltage converter or a plug adapter. If you are coming from Europe or other regions, you will need an adapter.