Welcome to Colombia 😊
Have you ever heard of Colombia? It's a vibrant and colorful country located in South America! If you love adventure, great food, and a rich culture, then this is the perfect place for you to visit.
Colombia is known for its stunning landscapes, from the Andes Mountains to the beautiful Caribbean beaches. You can hike through the jungle to see waterfalls, go on a coffee plantation tour, or dance the night away in one of the country's lively clubs.
If you're a foodie, Colombia has got you covered. Enjoy traditional dishes like bandeja paisa, a hearty plate of rice, beans, and meat, or try some empanadas. And let's not forget about the coffee! Colombian coffee is some of the best in the world, and you can visit one of the many coffee farms to learn about the process and try some for yourself.
Colombia is also home to a rich culture, with many festivals and celebrations throughout the year. From the Carnival of Barranquilla to the Medellin Flower Fair, there is always something going on. And of course, the people of Colombia are warm and welcoming, making your stay even more enjoyable.
Don't miss out on the vibrant and beautiful country of Colombia!
Quick Facts About Colombia
- Currency: Colombian peso
- Population: 50 million
- Languages: Spanish
Money and Finances
The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). Coins come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 pesos. Banknotes come in 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 pesos.
ATM Network
ATM machines are widely available in cities and towns in Colombia, but may be limited in rural areas. It is best to carry cash for small purchases in these areas.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants in urban areas, especially in tourist destinations such as Cartagena and Bogotá. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, while American Express is less commonly accepted.
Internet and Phones
In Colombia, the average internet speed for downloads is 19 Mbps and for uploads is 7.5 Mbps. While there is some government interference in internet use, access to internet is widely available and uncensored.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
There are several telco companies in Colombia, including Claro, Movistar, and Tigo. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around COP $55,000 (USD $15) per month. There are no reported sim compatibility issues in Colombia.
Dialling to Colombia
To call Colombia from another country, dial the international code (usually + or 00), the country code for Colombia (57), the regional area code, and finally the phone number. The area codes in Colombia range from 1 to 8 digits depending on the region.
Transport Around Colombia
Air Travel
Colombia has major airports in Bogotá, MedellÃn, Cali, Cartagena, and Barranquilla. The busiest airport is El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá.
Train Travel
There is currently no inter-city train network in Colombia. However, there are plans to build a high-speed train between Bogotá and the coastal city of Cartagena.
Metro / Local Trains
The only city with a metro system in Colombia is MedellÃn, which has two lines. The metro is fast, clean, and cheap.
Buses
Bus travel is the most common form of public transportation in Colombia. Prices and journey times vary depending on the distance and the type of bus.
Rideshare
There are several ridesharing companies operating in Colombia, including Uber, Cabify, and Beat. Prices for a typical ride are fairly affordable.
Driving by Car
Driving in Colombia can be challenging, especially in larger cities where traffic can be congested. The speed limit on highways is typically 80 km/h, while in urban areas it's usually 50 km/h. Colombia uses right-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Colombia, tipping is a common practice. It's customary to leave a 10% tip for good service, but it's not required. Locals usually greet each other with a handshake or a hug, and sometimes a kiss on the cheek depending on the region. When speaking with strangers, Colombians are generally friendly and approachable. Men and women usually address each other by their first names, but in formal settings, titles and last names are used.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Colombia has a public healthcare system, which provides free or low-cost medical attention to its citizens and residents. However, the quality of care varies depending on the region and the hospital. Private healthcare is also available for those who can afford it, with costs ranging from $50 to $150 for a visit to the doctor. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Colombia to cover any unexpected medical costs.
COVID Situation
Colombia has experienced a high number of COVID-19 cases and deaths. The government has implemented strict measures to control the spread of the virus, such as limiting the number of people in public gatherings, mandatory use of masks in public places, and travel restrictions. As of [insert date], there have been [insert number of cases and deaths] confirmed cases and deaths.
Common Health Risks
Malaria is a risk in some parts of Colombia, especially in rural areas. It is recommended to take anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellent. Food and water-borne diseases, such as typhoid and cholera, are also common in some regions. It is important to only drink bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked food.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Colombia, the legal drinking age is 18. However, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in public places such as parks and streets. Additionally, there are restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol during certain hours, such as from 1am to 9am.
Recreational Drugs
Colombia has some of the strictest drug laws in the world. Possession, sale, transport or consumption of any drugs, including soft drugs such as cannabis, can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to 20 years.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Pre-marital relationships are legal and socially accepted in Colombia. There are no laws against cohabitation or having a child outside of marriage.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Homosexuality is legal in Colombia, and same-sex relationships have been recognized by law since 2007. However, discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is still common in some parts of the country.
Firearms / Guns
The use, possession and carrying of firearms in Colombia is strictly regulated and requires a permit. Unauthorized possession or use of firearms can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to 20 years.
Regions in Colombia
There are many wonderful regions to visit in Colombia, browse through each to see what to visit.
1 Popular Travel Destination in Colombia
