Currency
The Colombian peso (COP) is the local currency. As of 2025, the exchange rate is roughly 4,000–4,200 pesos to the US dollar, though this fluctuates. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas — use those in banks or shopping centres rather than standalone machines on the street. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities. Carry some cash for markets, smaller towns, and transport.
Language
Spanish is spoken everywhere. English is increasingly common in tourist areas of Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, but don't assume it outside those contexts. Even a basic command of Spanish goes a long way and is warmly received.
Safety
Colombia has changed enormously over the past two decades, and the main tourist routes — Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta, the coffee region — are generally safe for travellers who take reasonable precautions. That said:
- Don't display expensive cameras, phones, or jewelry in public
- Use apps (Uber, InDriver, Cabify) rather than hailing taxis on the street
- Avoid certain rural departments: the US and UK governments advise against travel to Arauca, Norte de Santander, and parts of Cauca and Nariño due to activity from illegal armed groups
- Don't travel on rural roads at night
- Be cautious of strangers offering drinks or food — cases of scopolamine drugging exist, though they are not common
Health
Yellow fever vaccination is strongly recommended, and as of 2025, a yellow fever certificate is required to enter national parks and may be asked for on intercity transport in some regions, following a significant outbreak in 2024–2025. Get vaccinated before you travel — the vaccine is free in Colombia but getting it sorted at home is easier.
Tap water is drinkable in Bogotá and most large cities, but it's safest to use bottled or filtered water throughout the country. Malaria and dengue are risks in low-lying tropical areas (Amazon, Pacific coast, Caribbean coast). Use insect repellent, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Altitude is a real consideration. Bogotá sits at 2,600 metres and some highland destinations go higher. Give yourself a day or two to acclimatise before doing anything strenuous.
Communications
Wi-Fi is reliable in hotels and restaurants in major cities, patchier elsewhere. Local SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy — Claro, Movistar, and Tigo all offer tourist SIMs at airports and phone shops. Colombia's country code is +57.
Electricity
220V, 60Hz. Plugs are the standard North American two-flat-pin type (Type A). Bring a universal adapter.
Tipping
Restaurants often add a 10% voluntary service charge (propina) to bills — you can legally decline it, but most people pay it if the service was good. Tip taxis by rounding up. Hotel porters expect a small tip.
Time Zone
Colombia Standard Time (COT) is UTC-5, year-round. Colombia does not observe daylight saving time.