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Dry Season
The dry season is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country.
Travel guide
Колумбия
Colombia is a vibrant country known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the serene beaches of Cartagena, Colombia offers a variety of experiences for every traveler.
Julien H · CC BY-SA 2.0- Best MonthsDecember to March
- AirportsEl Dorado, José María Córdova, Rafael Núñez
- TransitBuses, taxis, domestic flights
- Power110V, Type A/B plugs
- Tipping10% in restaurants
- LanguageSpanish
01
When to go
The best time to visit Colombia is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to March and July to August. However, the country's diverse geography means that weather can vary significantly by region.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
The wet season brings heavy rains, particularly in the Amazon and Pacific regions.
Cool Season
The cool season offers pleasant temperatures, especially in the highlands.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural Hub
La Candelaria
Explore the historic heart of Bogotá with its colonial architecture and cultural institutions.
Can be busy with tourists.
Nightlife
El Poblado
A trendy neighborhood in Medellín known for its nightlife and dining options.
Can be noisy at night.
Historic
Cartagena's Walled City
A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colorful buildings and rich history.
Crowded during peak season.
Nature
Salento
A picturesque town in the Coffee Region, famous for its coffee farms and stunning landscapes.
Limited nightlife options.
Festivals
Barranquilla
Known for its vibrant Carnival, this city offers a lively atmosphere and cultural experiences.
Best visited during Carnival season.
Beach
Santa Marta
A coastal city that serves as a gateway to Tayrona National Park and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Can be hot and humid.
Coffee Culture
Manizales
Located in the Coffee Triangle, this city is known for its coffee culture and beautiful views.
Higher altitude, cooler temperatures.
Relaxation
Bucaramanga
A city known for its parks and pleasant climate, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Less touristy than other cities.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Arepas
A staple dish made from corn dough, found in various forms throughout the country.
→ Try them with different fillings.
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, meat, and avocado, typical of the Antioquia region.
→ Best enjoyed in Medellín.
Sancocho
A traditional soup made with meat, plantains, and yucca, popular in many regions.
→ Look for local variations.
Ajiaco
A chicken and potato soup, especially popular in Bogotá.
→ Perfect for cool weather.
Empanadas
Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, commonly found at street stalls.
→ Great for a quick snack.
Ceviche
Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices, often served with onions and cilantro.
→ Try coastal variations.
Postobón
A popular soft drink brand in Colombia, often enjoyed with meals.
→ Look for unique flavors.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Plaza de Bolívar
The main square in Bogotá, surrounded by important government buildings and the Cathedral.
Gold Museum
A museum in Bogotá showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
Tayrona National Park
A stunning park on the Caribbean coast known for its beaches and biodiversity.
Medellín's Comuna 13
A neighborhood known for its street art and transformation story.
San Basilio de Palenque
The first free town in the Americas, known for its rich African heritage.
Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
An underground cathedral built within a salt mine, located near Bogotá.
Cocora Valley
Famous for its towering wax palms and beautiful hiking trails.
Cartagena's Castillo San Felipe
A fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Los Nevados National Park
A national park known for its snow-capped mountains and diverse ecosystems.
Parque Arví
A nature reserve located just outside Medellín, ideal for hiking and picnicking.
Quindío Botanical Garden
A beautiful garden showcasing the region's flora, located in the Coffee Region.
Barranquilla Carnival
One of the biggest carnivals in the world, celebrated with parades and music.
La Ciudad Perdida
An ancient archaeological site in the Sierra Nevada, accessible via a multi-day trek.
El Parque del Café
A theme park dedicated to coffee culture, located in Quindío.
Chicamocha National Park
A park known for its stunning canyon views and adventure activities.
Museo del Oro
Another name for the Gold Museum, showcasing Colombia's rich history.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Major Airports
Colombia's main airports include El Dorado International Airport (BOG), José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), and Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG).
BOGEl Dorado
MDEJosé María Córdova
CTGRafael Núñez
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights are a convenient way to cover long distances quickly, especially between major cities.
Bus Travel
Buses are a popular and economical way to travel between cities and regions.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available in urban areas.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Colombia uses Type A and B plugs, with a standard voltage of 110V.
Cash
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 10% of the bill.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A trip of at least 10 days is recommended to explore multiple regions.