Colombia travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Colombia doesn’t play it safe. One day you’re wandering colonial streets in the heat, the next you’re hiking through cloud forest or cooling off in the Andes. It’s a country of contrasts, so pack for sun, rain, altitude, and the unexpected. Most trips start in Bogotá. It’s big, high, and filled with art, politics, and plenty of traffic. Don’t stay put.

Fly to Cartagena for coastal heat and Caribbean rhythm. Medellín’s all about reinvention, with hillside barrios and rooftop bars. The coffee region is made for slow mornings and strong brews. The Pacific coast is wild and wet, with empty beaches and thunderous surf.

Stay local, travel light, and don’t flash your stuff. Use buses if you’ve time, or consider hopping on domestic flights to save a day or two. Aguardiente tastes like regret if you overdo it, so pace yourself. These Colombia travel tips will help you dive in, not get swept away.

When is the best time to visit Colombia?

The best time to visit Colombia depends on where you're going and what you're after. This isn’t a country with four neat seasons. Because it's so close to the equator, the weather is shaped more by altitude than the calendar.

Bogotá stays cool year-round thanks to its height, while Cartagena is hot, humid, and beach-ready no matter the month. Rainfall patterns vary, so planning around regional dry seasons is key. In short, the best time to visit Colombia isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s about matching the weather to your plans.

• December to March is the peak dry season in most regions. It’s the best time for beaches, hiking in the Andes, and city exploring. Cartagena, Tayrona, and Medellín are buzzing, but prices and crowds go up. Book early if you’re coming over Christmas or Carnival.
• April and May, and again in October and November, bring the rains. Showers usually come in the afternoon, especially in the Andes and Amazon. It’s a quieter time to visit, but expect muddy trails and occasional travel delays.
• June to September is a good bet for highland towns, jungle trips, and whale watching on the Pacific coast.

Is Colombia expensive?

Colombia offers solid value, but prices vary. It’s cheaper than Brazil or Chile, but not dirt-cheap. How much you spend depends on your travel style. Stick to local buses, eat where the handwritten signs are, and skip the overpriced tourist menus, and your money goes far.

Some of the best things to do in Colombia, like the Lost City trek or Amazon trips, aren’t cheap. Guided tours often cost $60-150 (€55-140), and domestic flights can add up fast unless you book early.

• Budget travel ($40-60/€37-55 per day): Dorm beds, public buses, and set lunches (corrientazo) under $4 (€3.70). Expect simple comforts, not frills.
• Mid-range ($80-120/€75-110 per day): Private rooms in guesthouses, domestic flights, and day tours, think Comuna 13 graffiti walks or coffee farm visits.
• Luxury ($200+/€185+ per day): Boutique hotels in Cartagena, private coffee tastings, charter flights to the Amazon, and high-end restaurants in Bogotá or Medellín. Private guides, spa treatments, rooftop cocktails, you’ll find it all.

Is Colombia safe for travelers?

Colombia is safer than it used to be, but it’s not risk-free. Most visits go smoothly, but you still need to stay sharp, especially in big cities. Petty theft is the main issue. In Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, pickpockets target buses, markets, and crowded plazas. Don’t walk around with your phone out or flash fancy gear.

Violent crime rarely affects tourists, but some neighborhoods are best avoided. Ask locals where not to go, and trust their advice. Rural areas are generally calmer, especially in the coffee region, but remote zones near borders can still be sketchy. Stick to well-trodden routes.

To stay safe, follow these Colombia travel tips:

• Keep your bag across your chest and zipped in crowded places.
• Don’t use your phone on the street unless you’re somewhere secure.
• Use ride apps like InDriver or Uber, don’t hail cabs off the street.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Check with hotel staff about which neighborhoods to steer clear of.

Protests and disruptions

Protests can pop up in cities like Bogotá and Cali. They’re often peaceful, but things can change fast if riot police get involved. Roads may close, and public transport can be delayed.

Stay out of big crowds, follow local news, and allow extra time when getting around.

Nature and adventure safety

Colombia’s wild side comes with risks. In the jungle or high mountains, phone signal is patchy, trails aren’t always marked, and medical help is far away. Always go with a guide in places like the Amazon or the Sierra Nevada.

At altitude, like in Bogotá or Monserrate, take it slow and hydrate. In coastal areas, be cautious when swimming off remote beaches. Rip currents and a lack of lifeguards are common.

Laws, customs, and respect

Colombians are warm but conservative. Respect for personal space and politeness go a long way.

• Drugs are illegal, yes, even that. Penalties are steep.
• LGBTQ+ travelers are welcome in cities like Medellín and Bogotá, but small towns can be less open.
• English isn’t widely spoken outside tourist hubs. Learn basic Spanish helps a lot.
• Don’t expect things to run on time. Colombia works on its rhythm. Relax and roll with it.

Do you need a visa for Colombia?

For most travelers, the answer is no. Colombia keeps entry simple for short-term tourists. Still, visa rules can shift, so check the latest info before you fly; nothing ruins a trip faster than getting turned around at the border.

Visa-free entry for most travelers

Citizens of the US, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and several others can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months on arrival. You may be asked for proof of onward travel, like a return ticket or a booking out of the country.

Staying longer?

You’ve got a couple of options:

• Extension: You can apply for an extra 90 days through Colombia’s immigration website (Migración Colombia). It's usually straightforward but comes with a fee.
• Border run: It’s possible to leave and re-enter via Ecuador or Panama, but it’s not a loophole you should rely on. Immigration can deny entry if it looks like you’re dodging visa rules.

Planning to work, volunteer, or study?

You’ll need the correct visa in advance, and the process can be slow. Apply through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs site well before your trip.

Arrival and border tips

Colombia gives most travelers a digital entry record, not a passport stamp. Keep track of your entry date, because overstaying can get you fined or delayed on departure.

You’ll usually fill out a simple Check-Mig form online before arrival (check-mig.migracioncolombia.gov.co). Customs are strict about fresh food, seeds, or animal products; declare anything if you’re unsure.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Colombia

Colombia is generally easy to navigate health-wise: big cities have solid medical care, tap water is safe in some areas, and you won’t face many exotic disease risks. But this is still a country of extremes: jungle humidity, thin mountain air, patchy healthcare in rural zones, and plenty of bugs. Most health issues come from poor prep, not dodgy food or dangerous critters.

Medical care and pharmacies

In Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, you’ll find good private clinics and hospitals, some with English-speaking staff. In remote places like the Amazon or the Pacific coast, medical care is basic or hours away, and travel insurance that covers evacuation is a must.

Pharmacies (farmacias) are easy to find, often open late, and usually well-stocked. You can get many meds without a prescription, but know the generic names. Bring essentials from home: stomach meds, painkillers, antihistamines, motion sickness pills, and anything prescription.

Vaccinations and health prep

You don’t need any vaccines to enter Colombia, but some are strongly recommended:

• Hepatitis A and typhoid: For food and water safety.
• Tetanus-diphtheria: Especially if you’re hiking or biking.
• Yellow fever: Required if you’re heading to the Amazon, Llanos, or jungle zones (and sometimes checked when flying into Leticia or San José del Guaviare).
• Rabies: Only if you’ll be in remote areas or working with animals.

Food, water, and altitude

Tap water is generally safe in Bogotá, Medellín, and other major cities, but stick to bottled water elsewhere, especially along the coast and in rural zones.

Colombian food is usually well-cooked and not spicy. Street food is common and often tasty (arepas, empanadas, chorizo), but go where it’s busy and freshly made. Avoid undercooked meat and raw seafood unless you trust the place.

Altitude sickness can hit hard in Bogotá (2,600m) and other Andean towns. Take it easy the first day, hydrate, and skip the booze. If you're heading higher (like Monserrate or Páramo hikes), go slow and rest often.

Weather, insects, and natural hazards

• Sunburn: UV is strong at altitude, even if it’s cloudy. Sunscreen matters.
• Heat: The Caribbean coast and lowland jungles get brutally hot and humid. Stay hydrated.
• Cold: Nights in highland towns like Tunja or Pasto can be chilly. Bring layers.
• Mosquitoes: A real issue in coastal, jungle, and river regions. Use repellent and sleep under nets where needed.
• Dengue, chikungunya, and Zika are present; no vaccines, so avoid bites.
• Ticks and sandflies: Common on hikes and in forests. Cover up and check your skin.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Colombia

Colombians are friendly, proud, and social, but also value politeness and personal space. You don’t need to master every local custom, but a little cultural awareness goes a long way. These Colombia travel tips will help you blend in, not stand out.

Dress: casual but presentable

Colombians dress well, especially in cities. You’ll see people in jeans, but they’re clean, fitted, and often paired with nice shoes. Flip-flops are for the beach. In Bogotá and Medellín, locals even dress up to go to the mall. Modest clothing is best for churches and rural towns. If you’re hiking or on the coast, practical is fine, but still avoid looking scruffy.

Greetings and behavior

A friendly “Buenos días” or “¿Cómo estás?” is expected, even with strangers. Women usually greet with a cheek kiss, men with a handshake or a hug if they know each other well. Colombians are warm and expressive, but also polite; interrupting or talking too loudly is seen as rude.

Don’t joke about drugs, guerrillas, or Pablo Escobar, seriously. It's not edgy; it’s disrespectful. If politics or history come up, listen first, ask respectfully, and don’t assume.

Eating customs

Lunch is the main meal of the day, often eaten between 12:30 and 2:30 pm. Dinner is lighter and later, usually after 7:30 pm. Wait until everyone is served before eating, and say “Buen provecho”. At casual spots, don’t be surprised if your soup and juice come included with lunch.

If you're invited to someone’s home, show up 10-15 minutes late, bring a small gift (pastries, wine, or flowers), and offer to help or compliment the cooking, it’s appreciated.

Religion and respect

Colombia is mostly Catholic, and faith plays a visible role in daily life. Be respectful in churches and religious sites: dress modestly and stay quiet. You’ll also see roadside shrines and candle-lit altars; these are taken seriously, not treated like curiosities.

Tipping and gestures

• Restaurants: 10% is standard if not already included in the bill. Look for “servicio incluido”.
• Taxis: No tip needed, but rounding up is appreciated.
• Hotels, porters, and guides: A few thousand pesos go a long way.
• Don’t use the “come here” finger wag, it’s considered rude. Use your whole hand, palm down.

Is Colombia a good destination for families?

Colombia with kids is exciting, unpredictable, and full of variety. One day you’re riding a cable car over Medellín, the next you’re chasing monkeys in the jungle or cooling off on a Caribbean beach. It’s not built for strollers or strict routines, but if your crew can roll with it, Colombia’s a fantastic family adventure.

Start in Bogotá, where the altitude takes a day to adjust to. Once settled, head to the Gold Museum, take the cable car to Monserrate, or join the Sunday Ciclovía bike ride. In Medellín, kids love Parque Explora and the botanical garden, and the metro-cable offers easy thrills with great views. Cartagena is colorful and packed with history, ideal for older kids who can handle the heat. For cooler air and gentler days, head to the Coffee Region, where small towns and forest trails keep things relaxed.

Getting around Colombia takes planning, and distances are big. Domestic flights are your best friend between regions. In cities, use Uber or app-based taxis rather than flagging one down. Long-distance buses are decent but can be rough with toddlers.

When it comes to Colombia accommodations, families have options: Airbnbs, countryside fincas, and city hotels with extra beds or kitchenettes. Always check ahead for cribs, laundry, or family-friendly features.

Food is easy: rice, grilled chicken, arepas, and fresh juice are everywhere. Supermarkets stock formula, diapers, and basics, but bring extras if you’re heading remote. Colombia with kids isn’t always smooth, but it’s never boring.

What are the best places to visit in Colombia?

Colombia doesn’t do boring. Caribbean beaches, highland cities, rainforest rivers, and desert dunes, it’s all packed into one wild, beautiful country. Whether you're after big hikes, street art, or just a hammock with a view, these are the best places to visit in Colombia.

• Bogotá: The capital’s chaotic charm grows on you. Ride the cable car up Monserrate for city views, explore La Candelaria’s colonial streets, and hit the Gold Museum for a crash course in pre-Hispanic bling. It’s high, busy, and full of character.
• Medellín: Once infamous, now innovative. Ride the metro-cable into the hills, explore Comuna 13’s graffiti-covered streets, and hang out in leafy parks and rooftop bars. The weather’s spring-like year-round, and the vibe’s addictive.
• Cartagena: Hot, humid, and wildly photogenic. Inside the walled city, it’s all cobbled streets, colorful balconies, and Caribbean rhythm. Great for history buffs, beach lovers, and sunset chasers. Don’t miss a boat trip to the Rosario Islands.
• The Coffee Region: Lush and laid-back. Base yourself in Salento or Filandia to explore wax palm valleys, ride jeeps through the hills, and tour working coffee farms. Expect slow mornings, scenic hikes, and lots of caffeine.
• Tayrona National Park: Where jungle meets beach. Hike through rainforest to palm-fringed coves, camp near the sea, and fall asleep to crashing waves. Crowds swell in peak season, so go early and carry your supplies.
• The Amazon (Leticia): Deep jungle, pink dolphins, river villages, and no roads in or out. Leticia’s the gateway, but the real magic happens by boat. Come for wildlife, silence, and the feeling of being way, way off-grid.
• San Andrés and Providencia: Caribbean islands with clear waters and a Creole twist. San Andrés is lively and busy, while Providencia is slower, greener, and surrounded by reefs. Great for diving, snorkelling, or doing very little.
• The Tatacoa Desert: A surreal landscape of red canyons and star-filled skies. It’s not a true desert, but it feels like one. Base yourself in Villavieja, pack water, and stay the night for some of the clearest skies in Colombia.
• La Guajira: Colombia’s northernmost tip is wild and windswept. Think dunes, salt flats, and Wayuu communities living in one of the harshest environments in South America. Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas feel like the edge of the Earth.
• Barichara and San Gil: Barichara is the poster child for colonial calm, with cobbled streets and terracotta roofs. San Gil, just down the road, is Colombia’s adventure capital.

How long to spend in Colombia?

Colombia might look manageable on a map, but don’t underestimate it. Distances are big, mountain roads are slow, and this isn’t the kind of place you rush through. From the Caribbean coast to the Amazon jungle, it’s more about choosing a few regions and doing them well than trying to “see it all.”

Ask yourself:

• Are you flying between regions or going overland?
• Do you want nature, culture, beaches, or all three?
• Are you up for long bus rides, or do you want something smoother?

Rough timing breakdown:

1 week in Colombia – Focus. Pick one region. Bogotá and the Coffee Region make a good combo if you're into culture and mountain views. Prefer the coast? Cartagena and Tayrona National Park offer a beach-and-jungle mix. Don’t try to do both the coast and the Andes, you’ll waste too much time in transit.

• 10 days in Colombia – You can mix two contrasting regions. Think Medellín and the Coffee Region, or Bogotá, followed by a few days on the Caribbean. Flights help cut down travel time, but you’ll still need to pace yourself.
• 3 weeks in Colombia – Now you’ve got flexibility. Do a full north-to-south route: Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Tayrona, and maybe even the Tatacoa Desert or San Agustín. Or dive deeper into one part of the country, like the Pacific coast or the Amazon.
• 1 month+ – Ideal if you want to travel slowly. You can explore offbeat spots like La Guajira, Chocó, or Providencia, hang out in small towns, and actually feel the rhythm of the country.

What’s the best way to plan a Colombia itinerary?

Planning a trip to Colombia isn’t about ticking off the biggest names; it’s about pacing yourself, picking the right regions, and building in time to actually enjoy them. Colombia’s landscapes are wild, cities are intense, and travel takes longer than you think. The best Colombia itinerary balances nature and culture, flights and downtime. Less is more.

Start with how long you’ve got

Colombia’s size and terrain mean you’ll need to be smart with logistics. Distances are big, roads wind through mountains, and weather can throw off plans. You won’t see it all, and that’s okay.

• Under a week – Stick to one region. Bogotá and the Coffee Region work well together, or go straight to the coast: Cartagena, Rosario Islands, and a Tayrona beach hike.
• 7-10 days – Time for two contrasting regions. Try Medellín and the Caribbean coast, or Bogotá and the Amazon. You’ll need at least one domestic flight to avoid long bus rides.
• 2 weeks – Mix it up. Combine Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena with side trips to Guatapé, Salento, or Tayrona. You’ll get a taste of Colombia’s diversity without rushing.
• 3-4 weeks – Now you can dive deeper. Add places like San Agustín, the Tatacoa Desert, Providencia, or La Guajira. Go slow. Get off the gringo trail. Let Colombia open up.

Match your route to your travel style

There’s no one-size Colombia. Your perfect route depends on what you’re after.

• City + culture?
  • Bogotá – Street art, museums, markets, and Andean grit.
  • Medellín – Innovative, creative, and forever changing.
  • Cartagena – History, heat, and Caribbean charm.
• Nature + adventure?
  • Tayrona – Rainforest hikes, hidden beaches, and hammocks by the sea.
  • The Amazon – River trips, jungle wildlife, no roads in or out.
  • Barichara + San Gil – Colonial calm meets adrenaline sports.
• Coffee and calm?
  • Salento + Filandia – Jeeps, giant palms, and strong brews.
  • Jardín – A local favorite with fewer crowds.
  • Manizales – Hot springs, hummingbirds, and mountain views.
• Beaches and islands?
  • San Andrés – Duty-free shopping, reggae vibes, and reef snorkeling.
  • Providencia – Slower, greener, and worth the extra flight.
  • La Guajira – Desert dunes, Wayuu culture, and off-grid beauty.

Getting around Colombia: plan this early

Travel takes time. Planning ahead saves headaches and missed connections.

• Domestic flights are key for longer routes. Book early, especially during Colombian holidays.
• Long-distance buses are comfy and affordable, but slow. Expect 8-12 hours between regions.
• Driving is fine in the Coffee Region or Santander, but city traffic and mountain roads aren’t for everyone.
• Uber and inDriver work well in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, and are safer than flagging taxis on the street.
• Colectivos and minivans cover rural areas, but don’t expect timetables, just ask around.

How to slow travel in Colombia

Colombia isn’t a country you race through. It’s a place to wander, linger, and listen, where coffee breaks last an hour, buses run late, and the best moments aren’t in the guidebook. Slow travel in Colombia means letting go of your checklist and letting the country unfold on its terms.

Start with small towns. In the Coffee Region, skip the whirlwind tour and stay a few nights in Salento, Filandia, or Jardín. Wake up to birdsong, wander to the plaza for an arepa and tinto, then hike to a waterfall or just sit and watch the clouds roll over the hills. Coffee farm tours are better when you’re not rushing between five in one day, talk to the farmers, ask questions, and linger.

In Cartagena, get beyond the cruise ship crowds. Base yourself in Getsemaní, walk early before the heat, and find a corner café for late-morning people-watching. Take a boat to Isla Grande and stay the night, swim, nap in a hammock, and let the Caribbean pace take over.

In Bogotá, find the rhythm in places like La Candelaria or Chapinero. Browse used bookshops, visit independent galleries, and stretch your lunch in a local corrientazo joint. Don’t treat the city as just a stopover, stay a little longer and it opens up.

On the Pacific coast, slow travel isn’t optional; it’s the default. Places like Nuquí or Bahía Solano move at jungle speed. Electricity might flicker, boats leave when they’re ready, and the best experiences come from doing very little: whale watching, walking the beach, or just listening to the rain.

In Barichara, days stretch out. You hike the Camino Real in the morning, then eat slow-cooked meats with views over the canyon. Locals wave from porches, time slows down, and it finally clicks, you don’t have to rush.

How to do it right?

• Stay longer in fewer places. Three nights minimum is a good rule.
• Ride buses when it makes sense. Colombia’s scenery is too good to fly over every time.
• Shop and eat locally. Market stalls, corner bakeries, and roadside grills often serve the best meals.
• Talk to people. Colombians are storytellers. A little Spanish opens a lot of doors.
• Drop the agenda. Let the place set the pace.

How to handle money and payments in Colombia

Colombia is pretty straightforward when it comes to money, but there are a few quirks worth knowing before you start tapping your card or handing over pesos. The official currency is the Colombian peso (COP). Credit cards work well in cities, but cash is still king in many parts of the country.

• Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in supermarkets, malls, and chain restaurants. Smaller shops, rural hotels, and casual eateries often don’t take cards, or they’ll add a fee for using one. Always carry some cash, especially for taxis, tips, tolls, and snacks from street vendors.
• ATMs are easy to find in cities and airports. Most have withdrawal limits (around 300,000-900,000 pesos) and charge a fee of about $3-6. Davivienda, Bancolombia, and BBVA are common, but charges vary by card, so test a few if you're staying a while. Stick to machines inside malls or bank branches, especially after dark.
• Avoid changing money at airports or hotels, as they often give poor rates. If you’re carrying US dollars or euros, use official casas de cambio in cities for the best exchange. Colombia doesn’t have black market rates like neighboring countries, so there’s no need for sketchy side deals.

Occasionally, you might get a discount for paying in cash at smaller hotels or hostels. Ask politely before settling the bill.

What are the most common scams in Colombia?

Colombia is safer than its reputation suggests, but scams still happen, especially in big cities and tourist hotspots. Stay alert, trust your gut, and keep your valuables zipped and in front of you.

• Taxi scams: The classic move is to drive around to hike the fare or quote inflated flat rates. In Bogotá and Medellín, use Uber, Cabify, or InDriver for set fares and safer service. If you must hail a cab, never do it off the street at night; ask your hotel to call one or go to an official taxi rank.
• Distraction thefts: Someone “accidentally” spills something on you or taps you to ask for directions. While you're distracted, their friend grabs your bag or phone. This is common in crowded places like La Candelaria in Bogotá or markets in Medellín. Stay aware, and don’t let strangers “help” clean your shirt.
• Fake police checks: A couple of well-dressed men flash fake badges and ask to see your ID, wallet, or even cash. Real police will not ask to inspect your money. If in doubt, offer to go to the nearest station.
• Counterfeit notes: Watch for fake 50,000 and 100,000 peso bills. Learn what real notes look and feel like, check for watermarks and raised ink. Avoid accepting large bills from street vendors.
• ATM skimming: Rare but possible. Use machines inside buildings, not on the street, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN. If the slot looks tampered with, don’t use it.
• Too-good-to-be-true tours: Cheap “local” tour deals, especially in places like Cartagena or San Andrés, can turn out to be scams or just poor quality. Book through your accommodation, or use established operators with solid reviews.
• Fake accommodation listings: Watch out for apartments or rooms on dodgy websites asking for full payment via sketchy methods like Western Union or bank transfers. Stick to trusted platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Civitatis, and always read the reviews.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Colombia

Traveling in Colombia isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how you do it. This is a country of strong communities, complex history, and fragile ecosystems. Go slow, stay respectful, and your trip will mean more to you and to the people you meet.

• Dress with respect – Colombians take pride in their appearance. In cities, people dress smart even when it’s casual. Flip-flops and ragged clothes won’t fly in most places. In rural towns and religious sites, modest clothing is appreciated. Save the hiking gear for actual hikes.
• Support locals – Choose locally owned guesthouses, book tours through regional operators, and buy directly from artisans in places like Barichara, San Agustín, or Silvia’s Indigenous market. Skip mass-produced souvenirs and invest in something that puts money back into the community.
• Tread lightly – Colombia’s biodiversity is off the charts, and vulnerable. Stick to marked trails, never litter, and don’t disturb wildlife. In national parks like Tayrona or Cocora Valley, follow all posted rules and avoid single-use plastics. A reusable water bottle and a small trash bag go a long way.
• Ask before snapping photos – Especially in Indigenous communities, Afro-Colombian villages, churches, and street protests. Some murals carry heavy political meaning. If it feels intimate or personal, treat it that way.
• Be courteous – A friendly “Buenos días” opens doors. Colombians are warm, but they value politeness. A few Spanish phrases can change how you’re treated. Don’t shout, don’t rush, take your cues from the locals.
• Stay informed and respectful – Protests are part of civic life. Observe quietly, don’t film people without consent, and definitely don’t treat it like a photo op. Avoid joining unless you're invited and understand the context.
• Tip fairly – In restaurants, 10% is standard if not already added. Tip guides, drivers, and hotel staff if they’ve helped you out. It’s appreciated, and it adds up for them.

Don't underestimate Colombia's size or its roads

On the map, Bogotá to Medellín looks like a quick trip. In reality? That’s 9+ hours by bus on winding mountain roads. The landscapes are beautiful, but travel is slow. Domestic flights are often the smarter move, especially if you're short on time. Don’t try to cram the coast, the Andes, and the Amazon into a one-week trip. Pick a few regions and dive deep, Colombia rewards time, not rushing.

Sundays change everything

In Colombia, Sundays are for family and rest, and it shows. Shops close early, cities go quiet, and long-distance buses can sell out fast as people head back home. But it’s also the best day to experience local life. In Bogotá and Cali, major roads close for Ciclovía, when cyclists, skaters, and food vendors take over the streets. Want to feel the vibe? Grab a bike, get a fresh juice, and join the crowd.

Follow the rhythm, not the rulebook

One of the best Colombia travel tips? Loosen your grip on the schedule. Buses leave late, plans shift, and a casual “ya casi” (almost) might mean 30 more minutes. Instead of fighting it, lean into it. Say yes to a last-minute festival, a detour to a waterfall, or a slow lunch that turns into an all-afternoon hang. The real magic in Colombia isn’t in the itinerary, it’s in the moments you didn’t plan.