Simple tips for travel to Colombia

Thinking of Colombia? Tropical beaches, colonial cities, and breathtaking mountains may be calling your name—but before packing your bags, there are a few essential things every first-time visitor should know. In this guide, you’ll find clear and simple tips for traveling to Colombia that will help you avoid surprises and make the most of your adventure.

1. Do You Need a Visa or Any Travel Documents?

For most travelers no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. All you need is:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months

• The Check-Mig form, which must be filled out online before your arrival

• Proof of onward travel (sometimes requested at immigration)

Always check with your local Colombian consulate to confirm current entry requirements.

2. Recommended Vaccines and Health Tips

No vaccines are mandatory, but the yellow fever vaccine is strongly recommended if you're visiting the Amazon, Tayrona National Park, or other tropical regions. Other smart precautions include:

• Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines

• Travel insurance covering medical emergencies

• Avoid drinking tap water unless you're in cities with good purification systems (e.g. Bogotá or Medellín)

  
  

3. Best Time to Visit: Tips for Traveling to Colombia

Colombia has no seasons like spring or winter, but it does have dry and rainy periods. The dry season (December–March and July–August) is the best time to travel if you want to avoid rain.

Rainy months (April–May and October–November) are still manageable, just bring a light waterproof jacket.

4. Is Colombia Safe to Travel?

Colombia is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular destinations. Just follow the usual travel rules:

• Don’t flash valuables in public

• Avoid walking alone late at night

• Stick to well-known neighborhoods and tourist areas

• Use official transport apps like Uber or DiDi instead of hailing taxis

• Do not talk on your cell phone on the streets

“No dar papaya” is a local saying—basically, don’t make yourself an easy target.

5. Getting Around the Country

Colombia is bigger than you might think. To travel between cities:

• Domestic flights are fast and affordable (Avianca, LATAM, Satena)

• Long-distance buses are cheap but slower

• Apps like Rome2Rio or Moovit can help you plan routes

Inside the cities, Uber works well in Bogotá and Medellín. Avoid rush hour if you can!

6. Currency and Payments

• Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)

• You can exchange money at airports, hotels, or authorized exchange offices

• Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, but always carry some cash for small shops or rural areas

• Use ATMs in shopping centers or banks for safety

  
  

  

  
  

7. What to Pack for Colombia

• Lightweight clothing for warm cities like Cartagena or Santa Marta

• Jacket and umbrella for Bogotá or coffee region

• Good walking shoes for hikes or colonial towns

• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent

• A basic Spanish phrasebook or translation app

  
  

8. Language and Communication

Spanish is the official language, and English is spoken mostly in tourist zones. Locals really appreciate it when you try to speak basic Spanish—it’s a great way to connect.

9. Food & Culture Tips

• Must-try dishes: bandeja paisa, ajiaco, arepas, and exotic fruits like lulo and guanábana

• Tipping is common—10% is usually added to restaurant bills

• Colombian people are warm, welcoming, and proud of their country. Smile, be respectful, and you'll make friends everywhere.

10. Connectivity & SIM Cards

If you're planning to visit Colombia and need reliable mobile connectivity, acquiring a local SIM card is a practical and cost-effective solution. Major operators like Claro, Movistar, and Tigo offer prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased at airports, shopping malls, and authorized retailers across the country. To obtain one, ensure your phone is unlocked and present your passport for registration, as required by Colombian law. These SIM cards typically include a Colombian phone number and offer various data packages to suit your needs

FAQ – Quick Answers for First-Time Travelers

Is Colombia safe for solo travelers?

Yes, as long as you stay in well-known areas and use common sense.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Not required, but basic phrases help a lot. Translation apps work well too.

Can I drink the water?

In major cities yes, but in rural areas stick to bottled water.

How do I stay connected?

Buy a SIM card or rely on Wi-Fi—most cities have great coverage.

What should I avoid?

Avoid isolated areas, sketchy street ATMs, and don’t display expensive items.