Practical guide to visit Colombia

Why Visit Colombia?

Colombia, a gem nestled in the heart of South America, offers a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its rich cultural heritage, this nation boasts an array of colorful festivals, colonial architecture, and lively music scenes that reflect a deep-rooted history. The biodiversity is unmatched, with Colombia ranking as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. From misty mountains to lush Amazonian jungles, the varied landscapes serve as a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Best Times to Visit

Visiting Colombia can vary dramatically depending on where you plan to go and what you plan to do. The country’s weather is influenced by its equatorial position and varying altitudes, resulting in a range of climates.

• Weather Patterns by Region: The Andean region has a temperate climate with minimal seasonal changes, making cities like Bogotá and Medellín pleasant for most of the year. The coastal areas, such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, experience hot, tropical weather, ideal for beach-goers, especially from December to April.
• Seasonal Events and Festivals: For those interested in experiencing Colombia’s vibrant culture firsthand, timing your visit with major festivals can be rewarding. The Feria de Cali in December, known for its salsa dancing, or the famous Carnaval de Barranquilla in February, showcases a dazzling array of costumes and parades, ranking as the second-largest carnival in the world.

Must-See Destinations

Colombia’s diverse landscapes and rich history offer numerous must-see destinations that cater to all tastes, from historical enthusiasts to nature lovers.

• Cartagena’s Historical Wonders: This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its well-preserved colonial architecture encircled by massive stone walls. Strolling through Cartagena’s Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and vibrant balconies, feels like stepping back in time.
• Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring: Once notorious, now notable for its transformation, Medellín offers pleasant weather year-round and a host of cultural activities. The city’s innovative MetroCable has not only improved accessibility but offers stunning views of the Aburrá Valley.
• The Amazon Rainforest Experience: Accessible from Leticia, the Colombian Amazon offers an unparalleled biodiversity, including pink river dolphins, monkeys, and countless bird species. Guided tours provide insights into the local indigenous communities and their relationship with the environment.
• Exploring the Coffee Triangle: Comprising the departments of Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío, this region is the heart of Colombia’s coffee-growing zone. Visitors can tour coffee plantations, learn about the coffee-making process, and enjoy fresh brews amidst lush, rolling hills.

Wildlife and Nature Tours

Colombia’s vast natural reserves and national parks are havens for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a variety of eco-tourism adventures.

• Bird Watching in the Andes: Colombia is home to more bird species than any other country in the world. The Andean region, with national parks like Chingaza and Los Nevados, provides opportunities to spot rare species like the Andean condor and the hummingbirds in their natural habitat.
• Amazon Wildlife Excursions: Beyond the biodiversity hotspot of the Amazon basin, guided excursions allow visitors to encounter exotic wildlife such as caimans, anacondas, and myriad tropical birds, all while learning about the delicate ecosystems of this vast area.
• Whale Watching on the Pacific Coast: Between July and October, the Pacific coast near Nuquí and Bahía Solano becomes a prime spot for watching humpback whales as they migrate to warmer waters to breed and give birth.

Practical Travel Tips

Navigating a trip to Colombia involves understanding its entry requirements, health precautions, and local practices to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

• Visa and Entry Requirements: Most travelers from North America and Europe do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days, but a valid passport is required. Always check for the latest entry guidelines before traveling as policies can change.
• Health and Safety Considerations: While Colombia has made significant strides in safety, travelers should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in less touristy areas. Recommended vaccinations include yellow fever, especially if visiting the Amazon region. Drinking bottled or boiled water is advised to avoid waterborne illnesses.
• Currency and Payment Practices: The Colombian peso is the local currency, and while major credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, having cash on hand is crucial, especially in remote regions. ATMs are readily available, but it’s wise to withdraw during daylight hours in secure locations.

Culinary Delights

Colombia offers an exciting culinary landscape influenced by indigenous, Spanish, and African cuisines, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

• Traditional Colombian Dishes: Do not miss trying the national dish, bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of rice, beans, pork, avocado, fried egg, and chorizo. Other specialties include arepas (corn cakes), empanadas, and the rich, fish-based stew sancocho.
• Food Markets and Street Food: For a taste of local life, visit bustling markets such as Paloquemao in Bogotá or the Bazurto Market in Cartagena. Street food is a window into Colombian culture, offering flavorsome and inexpensive options like patacones (fried plantains) and buñuelos (cheese-flavored dough balls).

Planning Your Trip

Efficient planning can greatly enhance your travel experience in Colombia, especially when considering the diversity of activities and regions to explore.

• Recommended Itineraries: For a two-week trip, consider starting in Bogotá for a few days of cultural immersion, followed by the Coffee Triangle for a relaxed pace and scenic beauty. Next, head to Medellín and its surrounding villages before winding down on the Caribbean coast in Cartagena and the nearby islands.
• Booking Tours and Accommodations: Advance booking is advisable, particularly for popular destinations like Cartagena and during peak travel seasons. Look for accommodations and tours with good reviews, especially those that promote sustainable practices that respect local communities and ecosystems.
• Transportation Tips Within Colombia: Domestic flights are an efficient way to cover large distances between major cities. For more scenic routes, consider comfortable long-distance buses or, for shorter distances, shared taxis known as ‘colectivos’. In urban areas, metro systems in cities like Medellín offer a reliable and affordable way to get around.