Hiking to the 5 Lagoons

About the Country

Colombia is a South American country known for its diverse culture, vibrant music, colorful architecture, and passion for football. Its location near the equator gives it a year-round tropical climate. The country is rich in history, boasting numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites and bustling cities, alongside stunning natural landscapes.

Reasons to Go

1. Historical and cultural richness: Colombia is home to pre-Columbian ruins and well-preserved colonial towns.
2. Beautiful landscapes: From pristine Caribbean beaches to the majestic Andes, Colombia’s geographical diversity is unmatched.
3. Vibrant music and festivals: Colombia’s music scene and famous festivals offer a glimpse into the country’s joyous spirit.
4. Coffee culture: As a leading coffee exporter, Colombia offers unique coffee experiences.

Country Facts

• Official Name: Republic of Colombia
• Location: Northwestern South America
• Time Zone: Colombia Standard Time (GMT-5)
• Capital: Bogotá
• Population: Approx. 51 million
• Official Language(s): Spanish
• Government: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
• Economy: 37th largest in the world, known for its exports of coffee, flowers, emeralds, coal, and oil

Regions at a Glance

Colombia is divided into several distinct regions:
Bogotá: The country’s high-altitude capital, known for its colonial-era landmarks and vibrant street art.
Caribbean region: Home to stunning beaches, coral islands and the historic city of Cartagena.
Andean region: Known for its coffee plantations, flower farms and the city of Medellin.
Amazon region: A vast and biodiverse area, mostly covered by rainforest.

Tourist Attractions

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments in Cartagena.
• The historic city of Bogotá, with attractions like the Gold Museum.
• Beautiful beaches of San Andres and Providencia.
• The Coffee Cultural Landscape in the heart of the coffee-growing region.
• The incredible biodiversity of Amazon Rainforest.

Money Matters

The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities but less so in rural areas. It’s recommended to carry small amounts of cash. Cost of living is relatively low compared to Western countries.

Packing List

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a good pair of walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Rain gear is also recommended, as showers can be frequent.

Culture

Colombia’s culture is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Music and dance are central to social life, with styles like cumbia and salsa popular. The country is known for its film industry, with movies like “Embrace of the Serpent” gaining international acclaim.

Accommodation

Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Airbnb is also popular. The average cost varies by city and time of year.

Visa Requirements

Travelers require a valid passport. Most countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but some are recommended for certain regions. For more details, please visit the Colombian Foreign Ministry website.

Emergency Contact Numbers

Emergency number: 123. US Embassy: +57 1 2752000. It’s a good idea to have these numbers saved in case of emergencies.

Cultural Etiquette

Drugs are illegal and heavily penalized. Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly in religious and culturally significant places. It’s illegal to export certain pre-Columbian artefacts and emeralds.

Electricity, Plugs, and Voltage

The standard voltage is 110V. The standard frequency is 60Hz. Power sockets are type A and B. Travelers from Europe and parts of Asia will likely need an adapter.

Climate

Tropical near the coast and eastern plains; cooler in the highlands. Lightweight clothing is appropriate for the coast, while layers are needed for the highlands.

Public Transportation

Major cities have metro and bus services. Taxis are common, and ride-share apps are widely used. Domestic flights are often the most efficient way to travel long distances.

Language Spoken

Spanish is the official language. English is not widely spoken outside of major cities and tourist areas. Useful phrases:
“Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “Por favor” (Please)

Sustainability Tips

Travelers are encouraged to respect local traditions and environment. Avoid single-use plastics. Opt for eco-friendly tour operators.

Useful Apps & Websites

• Google Maps: For navigation
• Duolingo: For basic Spanish phrases
• TripAdvisor: For reviews and recommendations

Thank you for considering Colombia for your next destination. Make sure to try the local cuisine, immerse yourself in the culture, and enjoy the natural beauty. Colombia will be an unforgettable experience!