Traveling to Colombia is generally safe, but like any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips for a safe trip to Colombia: - Stay in safe areas: Stick to well-known tourist areas and avoid areas known for crime or unrest. - Use reputable transportation: Use Uber (best option) or licensed taxis, avoid using public transportation at night. - Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious in crowded or unfamiliar places. Don't use your phone while walking in the street. - Stay informed: Stay updated on current events and any travel advisories for Colombia. - Respect local customs: Be respectful of the local culture and customs, and dress appropriately, especially in more conservative areas. - Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry.
The number of days you should spend in Colombia depends on your interests and the places you want to visit. Colombia is a diverse country with a lot to offer, from enhancing cities to stunning natural landscapes. For a basic itinerary, you could spend around 7-10 days to visit some of the highlights, such as Bogotá (layover), Medellín, Cartagena, and the Coffee Region. However, if you want to explore more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Tayrona National Park, Nuquí (Whale season - June-Nov), Amazon rainforest, the Lost City, small towns like Jardín, or spend more time relaxing on the beaches of the Caribbean coast, you may want to consider a longer stay of 2-3 weeks. Ultimately, the amount of time you spend in Colombia should be based on your interests and how much you want to see and do. It's a good idea to research the places you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
Only in Medellín. It's generally not recommended to drink tap water in Colombia. It's best to stick to bottled water or purified water, which is widely available.
Colombian cuisine varies by region but is known for its use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Some popular Colombian dishes include arepas, bandeja paisa, empanadas, and sancocho.
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not need a visa to visit Colombia for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. However, it's always best to check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.
The currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). $3.900 COP = 1 USD (aprox.)
It's generally not recommended to exchange money on the streets in Colombia, as there is a higher risk of being scammed or receiving counterfeit currency. It's safer to exchange money at official exchange offices (casas de cambio), banks, or ATMs. Using ATMs is the most convenient way to withdraw Colombian pesos, as the exchange rate benefit foreigners. However, it's advisable to use ATMs located inside banks or secure locations to reduce the risk of card skimming or other fraudulent activities. Be sure to notify your bank before traveling to Colombia to avoid any issues with your cards