Colombia’s geography is one of the most diverse in the world. From the beaches of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts to the Andean mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the plains of Los Llanos, each region offers unique views and outdoor adventures.

As one of the world’s leading coffee producers, Colombia offers coffee lovers a unique experience. The Coffee Triangle region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, not only produces some of the best coffee in the world but also offers tours of coffee plantations.

Colombia is the birthplace of Cumbia and Vallenato, and the country has a great music and dance scene that includes genres like salsa, reggaeton, and bachata. Cities like Cali, known as the salsa capital of the world, offer lively nightlife and dance festivals.

Colombia’s varied terrain makes it an ideal destination for adventure sports. Enjoy paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon, surfing in the Pacific, trekking to the Lost City, or diving in the Caribbean.

Colombia’s got it all — stunning views, great coffee and music, and loads of adventure. Whether you’re here to chill on its gorgeous beaches, get your caffeine fix, dance the night away, or get your adrenaline pumping, you’re in for an epic time.

• Visa: Many nationalities can enter Colombia without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days for tourism purposes), but it’s important to verify this information with the Colombian embassy or consulate in your country.

• Vaccinations: The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for most travelers to Colombia: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (especially if visiting certain areas below 2,300 meters).

• Flight Booking: Check out our flight booking tips to make sure you get the best value for your money.

• Currency: The currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller towns and rural areas.

• Café de Olla: Traditionally prepared in a clay pot with panela (unrefined cane sugar) and sometimes spices like clove or cinnamon, café de olla offers a sweet and comforting flavor profile unique to the region.

• Coffee with Panela: Coffee sweetened with panela instead of regular sugar has a distinctive taste and is another popular way to enjoy coffee in Colombia.

• Geisha Coffee: Although originally from Ethiopia, the Geisha variety has found a successful home in Colombia, particularly in the high altitudes. Known for its floral, citrus, and sweet tea-like flavors, it’s often more expensive but considered a must-try for coffee connoisseurs.

• Tinto: The quintessential Colombian coffee experience, tinto is a small, strong cup of black coffee often sold on the streets and consumed throughout the day. It’s a cultural staple and a must-try for visitors.

• Maragogype Coffee: Often referred to as “elephant beans” due to their unusually large size, Maragogype is a mutation of Arabica coffee that originated in Brazil but thrives in Colombia’s climate. It’s known for its mild flavor and low acidity, offering a smooth coffee experience that’s quite distinct from other varieties.

• Cartagena’s Historic Walled City: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the beautifully preserved old town is surrounded by walls that once protected it from pirates. Its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and busy plazas make it a must-visit.

• Tayrona National Park: Offering some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches, Tayrona is perfect for hiking, swimming, and wildlife spotting.

• Medellín and the Metrocable: Once infamous, Medellín has transformed into one of Latin America’s most innovative cities. The Metrocable system offers not only a unique way to see the city but also access to previously isolated neighborhoods, contributing to social integration.

• The Coffee Triangle (Eje Cafetero): This region is the heart of Colombia’s coffee-growing area, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural landscape. Visitors can enjoy coffee tours, stunning scenery, and unique accommodations in traditional haciendas.

• The Amazon Rainforest: Covering the southern part of the country, the Colombian Amazon offers incredible biodiversity and the chance to visit indigenous communities, explore the jungle, and cruise along the Amazon River.

• Bandeja Paisa: This hearty dish is a staple of Colombian cuisine, especially in the Paisa region. It typically includes beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón (fried pork belly), chorizo, arepa (corn cake), avocado, fried egg, and sometimes morcilla (blood sausage).

• Ajiaco: A comforting chicken and potato soup from the Andean region, particularly popular in Bogotá. It’s made with different types of potatoes, corn, and the herb guasca, and served with capers, cream, and avocado on the side.

• Arepa: A versatile cornmeal cake that can be grilled, baked, or fried. Arepas are a staple in Colombian breakfasts and can be filled or topped with cheese, meats, or avocado.

• Cazuela de Mariscos: A creamy seafood stew made with coconut milk, a variety of seafood, and seasoned with herbs and spices. It’s a typical dish of Colombia’s coastal regions.

• Chocolate con Queso: A unique Colombian treat of hot chocolate served with chunks of cheese melted inside. It’s a comforting snack or breakfast option, often accompanied by bread or arepas for dipping.

• Experience a Coffee Plantation Tour: Learn about coffee production and its importance to the Colombian economy and culture by visiting a coffee plantation in the Coffee Triangle region (Eje Cafetero). This area is recognized by UNESCO for its cultural landscape.

• Salsa Dancing in Cali: Known as the salsa capital of the world, Cali offers numerous salsa clubs where you can watch professionals or take lessons yourself.

• Indigenous Markets in Silvia, Cauca: Visit the traditional indigenous market in Silvia, where the Guambiano people come to trade goods in a scene that has remained unchanged for centuries.

• Paloquemao Market in Bogotá: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting one of the largest markets in the country, where you can sample a variety of Colombian fruits, vegetables, meats, and flowers.

• Explore the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida): Take a multi-day trek through the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to reach this ancient archaeological site, which predates Machu Picchu. You’ll learn a lot about Colombia’s indigenous heritage.

• Greetings: A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Close friends and relatives often prefer a cheek kiss (one cheek, usually the right).

• Politeness: Colombians are generally formal in their social interactions. Using titles (Señor, Señora) and surnames until invited to use first names is common courtesy.

• Invitations and Visits: If invited to a Colombian home, bringing a small gift like flowers, chocolates, or wine is appreciated. Arriving a little late, about 15 to 30 minutes after the invited time, is often expected for social events.

• Tipping: Tipping is customary in Colombia, especially in restaurants where 10% is standard. However, this may already be included in the bill as “servicio,” so it’s good to check. For other services like taxis, tipping isn’t expected but appreciated for exceptional service.

• Understanding of Time: Time is treated more flexibly in Colombia than in some other cultures. Be patient and flexible with schedules.

Before international travel, you should always make a plan for how you’ll use your phone.

Colombia roaming charges can add up quickly, and you don’t want to get stuck with a huge phone bill after an amazing vacation.

Carrier travel data packages are often expensive, with limited data and a lot of restrictions.

A budget-friendly way to avoid Thailand roaming charges is to download a Colombia eSIM that comes with a prepaid Colombia data package.