Colombia Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Colombia with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit places, activities, food, and local culture, as well as safety, transportation, and logistics tips.


Introduction to Colombia

Colombia is a South American country that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm and welcoming locals. From the vibrant cities of Bogota and Medellin, to the lush Amazonian rainforest, to the Caribbean coast, there’s something for every traveler in Colombia. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll share all the essential information you need to plan your trip to this amazing country.

List of Places to Visit in Colombia

Here is a list of must-visit destinations in Colombia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Gold Museum in Bogota
  2. San Felipe de Barajas Castle in Cartagena
  3. Fernando Botero Museum in Medellin
  4. Tierradentro Archaeological National Park
  5. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Natural Attractions of Colombia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tayrona National Park
  2. Valle de Cocora
  3. Caño Cristales
  4. Guatapé and El Peñol
  5. Los Nevados National Natural Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Colombia

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed vacation, Colombia has plenty of options:

  1. Valle de Cocora Trek
  2. Ciudad Perdida Trek
  3. Paramillo del Quindio Trek
  4. Pico Cristobal Colon Hike
  5. Biking through the Coffee Region

Best Things to Do in Colombia: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a salsa class in Cali
  2. Enjoy the Juan Valdez coffee experience
  3. Take a street food tour in Bogota
  4. Explore the underground salt cathedral in Zipaquira
  5. Go birdwatching in Mompos

Week-Long Itinerary for Colombia

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a one-week trip to Colombia:

Day Destination
1 Arrive in Bogota, explore the historic district and take a street food tour
2 Take a day trip to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira
3 Fly to Medellin, visit the Fernando Botero Museum, and take a salsa class
4 Explore the Guatapé and El Peñol near Medellin
5 Fly to Cartagena, explore the walled city, and take a street food tour
6 Take a day trip to the Rosario Islands
7 Departure day

Food and Drink Scene of Colombia

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bandeja Paisa
  2. Arepas
  3. Sancocho
  4. Empanadas
  5. Ajiaco

Local Beverages

  1. Coffee
  2. Aguardiente
  3. Chicha
  4. Refajo
  5. Lulada

Where to Stay in Colombia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, there are many options for accommodations in Colombia. Here are some of the best:

  1. Selina Medellin in Medellin
  2. La Brisa Loca Hostel in Santa Marta
  3. Masaya Hostel in Bogota
  4. Casa del Arzobispado in Cartagena
  5. Hotel Boutique Casa San Agustin in Cartagena

What to Buy in Colombia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Emeralds
  2. Coffee
  3. Leather Products
  4. Handmade Jewelry
  5. Traditional Clothing such as mochilas and ponchos

Local Culture and Customs of Colombia

In Colombia, family and community are very important. Colombians are also known for their love of music and dance, especially salsa. It’s important to be respectful of Colombian culture and customs, including greeting locals with a handshake and using formal titles such as “señor” and “señora”.

Best Time to Visit Colombia

The best time to visit Colombia depends on your itinerary and interests. Generally, the dry season from December to March and July to August is the best time to visit, but the rainy season from April to June and September to November can also offer unique experiences such as the Caño Cristales river.

Do’s and Don’ts of Colombia

Do:

  1. Take a salsa class in Cali
  2. Explore the historic district of Cartagena
  3. Try local food and drink
  4. Visit Tayrona National Park
  5. Learn some Spanish phrases

Don’t:

  1. Wear flashy jewelry
  2. Take unmarked taxis
  3. Walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas
  4. Drink tap water
  5. Leave valuables unattended

Safety and Health in Colombia

Safety in Colombia

Colombia is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to take precautions to avoid any potential risks. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid traveling alone or in remote areas. Keep your valuables out of sight and only use official taxis.

Health in Colombia

It’s important to take proper precautions to stay healthy in Colombia. Drink bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and only eat food that has been thoroughly cooked.

Getting to Colombia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Colombia

  1. El Dorado International Airport in Bogota
  2. Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Medellin
  3. Rafael Nunez International Airport in Cartagena

Bus Stations Near Colombia

  1. Terminal del Norte in Bogota
  2. South Terminal in Medellin
  3. MegaBus Terminal in Cartagena

Other Options

  1. Domestic flights within Colombia
  2. Car rental

How to Get Around in Colombia

While cities like Bogota and Medellin have great public transportation systems, it’s generally best to rely on taxis or car rentals to get around in Colombia.

Where to Go Next from Colombia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your South American adventure, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  1. Machu Picchu, Peru
  2. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
  3. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
  4. Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for an adventure-packed vacation or a relaxing getaway, Colombia has something to offer every traveler. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your visit to this beautiful country and make unforgettable memories.

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    Amazonia
    Andino
    Colombian Islands
    Costa Norte
    Orinoquía
    Pacifica