Colombia

All of Latin America in one country: historic cities, archaeological sites, coffee plantations and Caribbean ambience.

Les Essentials

Colombia in detail

Click on regions to see related articles.

Capital :

Bogota

Area :

1,1 millions km²

Population :

49 millions

Currency :

Colombian Peso | 10 000 COP = 2.3 USD

Language :

Spanish

Time difference :

GMT-5 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time

Best seasons :

December to March

Colombie

Practical info

Gastronomy

Simple, delicious cuisine. The majority of dishes in the Andean region are of indigenous inspiration, based on potatoes and corn. Examples include arepa, filled corn cakes, and ajiaco, a potato soup. On the Caribbean coast, there is a strong African influence, with many dishes cooked in coconut milk. Coffee, fruit juices, lemonades and rum-based cocktails are particularly popular on the Caribbean coast. Also noteworthy is the excellent coffee liqueur, “Coloma”, which replaces coffee at the end of Colombian meals.

Embassy

In the world : https://embassies.net/colombia-embassy

Crafts

Gold jewelry inspired by pre-Columbian goldsmiths and the world's finest emeralds. Some of the bags (mochilas) and fabrics made by Indian communities are also of the highest quality. Hats typical of each region.

Credit cards

Most banks, hotels and city shops accept Visa or MasterCard. Cash dispensers are available in larger towns, but there are fewer in smaller towns than in Europe.

Route selection

Climate

A wide variety of climates: tropical on the Caribbean coast and temperate in the Andes. The dry season extends from November to March. Temperatures can be cool or even cold in the Andes during the winter from June to September.

Electricity

The electrical current is 110 volts with American-style outlets (flat prongs). Bring an adapter for your European devices.

Public holidays

Opening hours

Colombia is in the GMT-5 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time. There is a -6 hour difference with Central Europe in winter and -7 hours in summer.

Internet

Internet coverage is excellent in major cities and tourist areas, with free Wi-Fi often available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. However, connectivity may be limited in rural and remote areas.

Language

Money & Change

The official currency is the Colombian peso (COP). ATMs are available in cities, and exchange offices offer good rates. It is advisable to carry small bills for minor transactions.

Clothes

For the Caribbean region, light clothing. For the Andean region, woollens and raincoats. If you visit Colombia from June to September, warmer clothes are recommended.

Taxis

Choose official taxis and use apps like Cabify or Uber in major cities. Taxis don’t always have meters, so agree on a fare before getting in.

Health

Tap water is not safe to drink in Colombia. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Bring mosquito repellent and consult a doctor for necessary vaccinations (yellow fever in particular). Travel insurance is highly recommended.