Discover Colombia
Colombia is a wonderful country with all sorts of landscapes, from. mountains, desserts, to pristine beaches and jungle. It offers it all, here are some general recommendations and tips if you plan to travel around colombia.
General Tips
Colombia is a captivating country that boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from majestic mountains and lush jungles to pristine beaches and enchanting deserts. Here are some essential tips and travel recommendations for exploring this remarkable nation:
Carry Cash
While Colombia is increasingly card-friendly, it’s always wise to carry some cash, particularly if you’re embarking on a road trip. In more remote areas, cash remains the primary mode of payment.
Don't Give Papaya
In Colombia we say “No dar papaya,” which essentially means not making it easy for others to take advantage of you. Avoid flaunting expensive items like smartphones or watches in secluded areas. Keep a close eye on your personal belongings.
Enjoy With Safety
Don’t let the country’s complex history scare you. Colombia is now a safe destination for travelers, but it’s essential to stick to well-kwon paths and stay informed about your surroundings.
Opt for Rideshares
When it comes to transportation, consider using Uber, inDriver, or Cabify over traditional taxis. This can help prevent overcharging, as local taxis sometimes exploit the fact that you’re a foreigner, especially in big cities.
Pack Smartly
Colombia has cities with different climates. While Bogotá may be chilly (between 8°C to 18°C), coastal destinations like Cartagena can be around 35°C. Pack clothing suitable for the specific regions you plan to visit.
Learn Basic Spanish
While many Colombians in tourist areas speak English, having a basic understanding of Spanish can significantly enhance your travel experience. Learn a few standard phrases and expressions to facilitate communication.
Travelling around Colombia?
Here are our top destinations for first-timers
Medellin
The “City of Eternal Spring,
Medellin enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, thanks to its location among picturesque mountains. Recommended Activities:
- Embark on a delightful fruit tour at Plaza Minorista, where you can savor a wide array of exotic fruits and learn the stories behind each one.
- Try the arepas, buñuelos, aguardiente, and all the “paisa” delights.
- Take a graffiti tour in Comuna 13, a neighborhood that has transformed into an open-air street art museum.
- Experience vibrant nightlife in Provenza, located within the Poblado neighborhood, where you’ll find a diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.</li>
Cartagena
The “Fantastic” or “The Rock Corral”
Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most photogenic cities, renowned for its rich history and stunning historic center. To make the most of your visit, keep these points in mind:
- Dance some champeta, salsa, and eat the delicious patacones and arepa e’ huevo.
- Explore the most beatiful beaches with a short boat trip to Tierra Bomba or Rosario Island. ALWAYS book this with reliable operators, avoiding individuals in the old city to prevent overcharging and scams.
- The city is very turistic with some individuals trying to profit. So always ask for prices upfront to ensure fair deals when buying beach chairs or drinks.
Santa Marta
A natural beauty
Discover the picturesque beauty of Santa Marta, with lush landscapes, unspoiled beaches, and the breathtaking Sierra Nevada as your backdrop. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this natural wonder:
- Explore the charming old center of the city and party at the Rodadero beach.
- Immerse yourself in nature by visiting the Tayrona Park National Park and its beatiful clear water beaches.
- Escape the city life and find tranquility in Minca, a small town nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta where you can enjoy organic coffee and cacao.
Coffee Region
Colombian’s treasure
Colombia is well known for its coffee. The coffee region is really beatiful, with small villages surrounded by mountains at the best style of Disney’s Encanto movie. If you are planning a coffee trip the best way is to rent a car in Medellin and do a road trip. The other option is to fly to Manizales or Pereire. Small towns you must see on your coffee trip are:
- Salento and the beatiful Cocora Valley.
- Jardin Antioquia and its cute little center
- Filandia and its beautiful hills.
Other highlights
Looking to explore more, check out the following destinations:
- For caribbean islands: San Andres Island, Tintipan Island, or Mucura Island.
- For desert: Tatacoa Desert or Cabo de la Vela
- For legendary valleys in the Andes: Villa de Leyva or Barichara.