Colombia

Colombia is a country of striking contrasts, where Caribbean beaches, Andean peaks, Amazonian rainforest, and colonial cities converge in one of South America’s most biodiverse nations. After decades of political isolation, Colombia has emerged as a vibrant and welcoming destination with a growing reputation for culture, cuisine and natural beauty. The capital, Bogotá, sits at an altitude of 2,640m (8,660ft) in the Andean highlands. It blends historic architecture and museums with a modern urban energy, and is the cultural and political heart of the country. Elsewhere, Medellín has transformed from its troubled past into a hub of innovation and renewal. On the Caribbean coast, Cartagena enchants with its UNESCO-listed old town, colourful facades and warm tropical air. Inland, the Coffee Region offers rolling hills, quaint villages and working fincas where visitors can learn about Colombia’s most iconic export. In the far south, the Colombian Amazon opens a gateway to one of the world’s richest ecosystems. The frontier town of Leticia, at the tri-border of Colombia, Brazil and Peru, is the main access point for jungle excursions, Indigenous culture and river exploration. Colombia’s warm hospitality, diverse landscapes, and living traditions make it a rewarding destination for travellers seeking both cultural depth and natural adventure.

The colourful buildings in Old Town, Cartagena are a beautiful sight.

About Colombia

FAQs

Discover culture, cuisine and an exciting blend of architectural styles in the vibrant capital of Bogotá

Walk through picturesque countryside to the village of Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s most beautiful colonial towns

Experience the faded beauty, sleepy riverside ambiance and World Heritage Listed town centre of Mompox

Explore the sandy beaches, bays and coral reefs of Tayrona National Park

Head to Montenegro to experience the lush beauty of Colombia's coffee growing region

Fall in love with Cartagena, a romantic mix of fairytale churches, candy-coloured buildings, cobbled streets and Caribbean beaches

Local woman selling fresh fruits on the streets of Colombia - <i>Photo: Pat Rochon</i>

Due to its proximity to the equator, Colombia enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but conditions vary significantly by region and elevation. The Andean highlands, including Bogotá (2,640m / 8,660ft), have a spring-like climate, with daytime temperatures between 14–20°C (57–68°F) and cooler nights year-round. The Caribbean coast is hot and humid, with temperatures around 28–33°C (82–91°F), and a distinct wet season from May to November. In the Amazon Basin, conditions are hot, humid and wet year-round, with daily temperatures between 28–34°C (82–93°F) and frequent tropical downpours, particularly between November and May. Rainfall can occur at any time, especially in mountainous or jungle regions, so lightweight waterproofs and sun protection are essential regardless of season.

Local Colombian architecture - <i>Photo: Pat Rochon</i>

Colombia is -5 hours behind GMT/UTC

Spanish (official)

Colombian Peso

US dollars are the best currency to change in Colombia.

Credit cards and ATM’s are available in most large cities and hotels, however it is not recommended to rely on these solely.

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Electricity in Colombia is 110 Volts, at 60 hertz. The most common pin type is A. (2 flat prong).

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.

People and Culture First

We place local communities at the heart of our each trip.

By working with experienced local guides, operators and suppliers, we help support livelihoods, encourage skills development and foster long-term partnerships.

Our active journeys are designed to promote respectful cultural exchange and ensure the benefits of tourism are shared within the communities we visit.

How we stay sustainable