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Colombia Travel Guide

Austin Mayer -
June 17, 2025

Overview

Colombia is a diverse and vibrant destination, packed with bucket list experiences from the colorful streets of Cartagena (tourism hotspot) to the lush coffee regions and the towering Andes mountains. In my opinion, the top sights include the historic walled city of Cartagena, the buzzing capital Bogotá, and the stunning Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms. Whether you’re into culture, adventure, or relaxation, this Colombia travel guide ensures you won’t miss a thing.

Quick Facts About Colombia

Language

Spanish;

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Visa

Visa-free for most nationalities (90-day stay)

Power Plugs

Type A / B

Religion

Predominantly Catholic

Capital

Bogotá

Climate

Tropical near coasts, cooler in highlands. Dry season: Dec - Mar & Jul - Aug

Apps

Uber, Cabify, Rappi (food delivery)

Flights Information for Colombia

As a tourist, your main airports in Colombia will be Bogotá (BOG), Medellín (MDE), and Cartagena (CTG). Bogotá has the most international connections, with direct flights from the U.S., Europe, and other Latin American countries. Smaller airports like Cali (CLO) and Santa Marta (SMR) are great for regional travel. You can shop for flights to Colombia on Skyscanner or Google Flights.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Colombia

Colombia has improved significantly in safety over the years, but petty theft and scams can still happen, especially in crowded areas. I’d recommend avoiding flashy jewelry, keeping an eye on your belongings, and using registered taxis. Some rural areas still have security concerns, so check government advisories before traveling off the beaten path. Another thing to note is that Colombians are warm and friendly, but it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night in big cities.

Climate

Colombia’s climate varies by region, tropical along the coast, mild in the coffee zone, and cooler in Bogotá’s highlands. The dry season (Dec-Mar & Jul-Aug) is the best time to visit for sunny weather, while the rainy season (Apr-Jun & Sep-Nov) brings lush green landscapes but occasional downpours.
I visited in January, and the weather was perfectly warm in Cartagena but pleasantly cool in Medellín. If you hate humidity, avoid the Caribbean coast in peak summer.

Budget

Colombia is a budget-friendly destination, with hostels starting at 30,000 COP Approx ($7 USD) and private hotels from 100,000 COP Approx ($25 USD). Meals at local eateries cost around 15,000-30,000 COP, while upscale dining can go up to 70,000 COP.
Hostels start at Approx $7/night, and meals cost Approx $3-$7. Use Uber/Cabify for cheap transport.

Other Essential Information

  • Best Way to Get Around: Domestic flights (Avianca, LATAM), buses, and taxis.
  • Must-Try Foods: Bandeja paisa, arepas, fresh tropical fruits.
  • Cultural Tip: Tipping (~10%) is appreciated but not always expected.
  • WiFi & SIM Cards: Claro and Movistar offer cheap prepaid data plans.

 

Final Thoughts

Colombia is an underrated gem with incredible landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring colonial towns or hiking through jungles, this country won’t disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colombia safe for tourists?
Yes, major tourist areas are safe, but stay alert in cities and avoid risky neighborhoods.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Helpful but not necessary many in tourist areas speak basic English.
What’s the best time to visit?
Dec-Mar for dry weather, though shoulder seasons (Jul-Aug) are also great.

Austin Mayer

Editor in Chief & General Manager

Austin Mayer covers flights and airfare for Travel and Diaries. He writes the site's guides on airline routes, booking timing, stopover strategy, and getting the most out of long-haul economy - with a particular focus on connections between South Asia, the Gulf, and long- haul destinations. Austin's articles track real route networks and fare patterns rather than recycled booking myths: when he recommends a connection through Doha or Dubai, it's because the schedules and prices actually support it. Off the page, he supports the Travel and Diaries flight desk, which helps readers turn his advice into booked tickets.

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