Colombia
There are some incredible things to do in Colombia: epic mountain treks, gorgeous beaches, coffee plantations massive coconut massive trees (which is actually way cooler than it sounds) plus a whole lot more. But none of those things have anything to do with my favorite part about this place. The culture and the people here will move you. The music in the streets, the vibrant colors everywhere and the glint in their eyes will mesmerize you and draw you into this community of humans so warm and alive with curiosity.
Basic Info
Drinking water: Potable. Safe to drink from the tap through bigger cities, but double check on the coast and smaller towns.
Plugs: Type A and B (See photo below)
Covid Updates
Open for international tourism
Updated: Oct 29
Fill out a “Check Mig” form 24 hours before departure
No quarantine or negative test required
Money
Official currency: $ Colombian peso
Credit cards: Accepted in major areas with ID but have cash for small transactions and local places.
Tipping: Not customary, but many leave up to 10%
Visas
99 passports can enter visa free – usually for a period of 90 days, however, there are some exceptions. This includes much of Europe and the Americas and a handful of Asian and Oceanic nations.
**Always check with your government for the most up to date information on visa requirements.**
Vaccinations
Yellow fever (at least 10 days prior to arrival) is required if coming from Brazil, Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, & Uganda.
**Assuming you are current on routine vaccinations. Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on required vaccinations specific to your home country**
Safety
Exercise Increased Caution
Despite its lingering reputation from the 90s, Colombia is a very safe destination. There are still ongoing tensions but for the most part they do not apply to tourist areas. Nevertheless, always make sure you stay informed.
**Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on safety**
Language
Official Languages: Spanish
Hello: Hola Goodbye: Adios
Thank-you: Gracias
Yes: Sí No: No
Beer: Cerveza Bathroom: Baño
When to go
The country is driest between December and March but Dec / Jan are the busiest and most expensive to travel. February is the iconic Carnival in Barranquilla but there are also many festivals throughout the year around the country.
The Caribbean has warm/hot temps year round but September – early November comes with heavy rainfall.
Medellín, the city of eternal spring, is also warm year round while Bogotá remains cooler for much of the year.
Responsible Travel
Pablo Escobar: It’s important to learn about Escobar and his relationship with Colombia, however, this is still a very recent history for these people who are still living with the pain, loss and consequences. Please be mindful when asking questions as well as deciding what to partake in. For more info check out: The Harsh Truth About Pablo Escobar Tours
The FARC: Basic info from 2016, Colombia’s Long Road to Peace
Click below to get started. It will give me some information about what you’re looking for to help better tailor your trip to you! I will reach out to you within 48 hours. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!