With 10% of the world’s biodiversity, Colombia is home to many animals that are endemic to its landscapes. This includes some of the world’s rarest birds and butterflies.
1. When to Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, it’s important to choose the best time of year. The country has two distinct climates – cold in the Andes and warm in the lowlands.
December to March is Colombia’s busiest season, ideal for travelers who want to see the country’s top sights. Prices are higher, but the weather is generally dry and sunny – perfect for hiking in national parks or visiting a beach.
September to November is also a good time to visit the Amazon, where you can explore the rainforest in its natural state and spot wildlife on the trails. However, this is also a rainy period and the waters of Tayrona National Park may be closed between late January and mid-February for trail restoration and maintenance.
Easter is another popular travel time in Colombia, with elaborate processions and colorful celebrations taking place across the country. If you’re planning to travel during this time, book your accommodation and transportation in advance.
2. Research
Colombia’s rich culture, diverse landscape and welcoming people make it a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
There are some of the biggest and prettiest cities in South America, and whether you’re exploring Bogota’s museums or taking in the historic streets of Cartagena, this country is sure to impress and leave you feeling like you’ve truly arrived.
Although violence is still a problem in certain areas, you can be confident that you’re safe to explore this fascinating South American country. It’s not the same as what you may have imagined in 1990s Hollywood films, and if you take practical safety precautions, you’ll be fine.
If you’re traveling in remote areas, consider flying rather than driving. Road conditions are often less dangerous now, and with new low-cost airlines available, you’ll save a lot of time and money on the trip by flying.
You’ll also want to take into consideration your travel insurance policy and make sure that it includes medical evacuation in case of an emergency. You can also get a travel vaccination to protect against yellow fever and Zika.
3. Pack Sensibly
When it comes to packing for your Colombia vacation, there are a few essential items that you should consider. This is especially true if you plan to spend much of your time outdoors.
For instance, if you're traveling to the Caribbean coast, bring a bathing suit. However, once you’ve made it into the Andean regions, don’t forget to pack a few layers since Colombian weather is extremely unpredictable.
In addition to clothing, we recommend bringing some sun protection and bug spray. You might also want to consider bringing a portable USB charger, so you don’t have to worry about your phone dying on you during long bus rides. Lastly, don’t forget to wear a hat to protect your face from the sun.
4. Be Prepared for Adventure
Having a robust sightseeing itinerary is essential to ensuring you experience the very best Colombia has to offer. This will ensure you see all the sights that you want to see, meet locals, and make the most of your time in each destination.
Today’s travelers are looking for experiences that connect them to a destination and allow them to explore it from the inside out. They want to feel like a part of the community, and that’s exactly what community-based tourism like volunteer programs in Colombia offer.
This is one of the most immersive types of travel in Colombia, and it’s something that you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. You’ll be able to speak with locals, learn about their culture and history, and even make connections that will last a lifetime.
If you’re not a fan of hiking, there are plenty of other South America tours that will give you an unforgettable adventure in this country and nearby destinations. From canopy tours to rafting, you’ll find a trip that fits your interests and level of physical activity.
5. Safety
Colombia is no longer a crime-ridden country, but it is still important to practice safe travel habits while you are in the country. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe in this exciting destination.
Avoid walking around late at night or flashing valuables in public areas, especially near tourist centers. This may seem like a basic rule, but it is actually one of the most effective ways to avoid being robbed or mugged.
Don’t drink alcohol at bars or clubs where you are not familiar with the bar owner. This can increase your chances of being a victim of drink spiking.
View advice online and check out our guide for how to stay safe in Bogota.
Finally, don’t buy drugs while you are in the country. This will not only put you at risk, but it is also illegal.
6. Sightseeing Itinerary
With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Colombia has reinvented itself since the end of the civil war. Discovering Colombia can be a rewarding adventure for travelers of all ages and interests.
To get the most out of your trip, it’s important to plan your sightseeing itinerary carefully. This will ensure you’re not overwhelmed and can make the most of your time in Colombia.
You might want to search Colombia tours, there are hundreds of trips with different itineraries. You can book all year round.
7. Make Connections with Locals
A great way to truly experience Colombia is by getting to know the country’s people. This will help you gain an understanding of the culture, see the best places to visit and learn about the country’s history and traditions.
Locals are always happy to share their stories and help you get the most out of your trip. They’ll share their favorite hangouts and show you around their neighborhoods.
You can also make friends by traveling with a group of people from Colombia who are also interested in exploring the country. This will help you avoid crowded tour buses and give you an opportunity to explore the city with other travelers who are passionate about Colombia.
Another way to meet locals is to book a chiva, or party bus, and enjoy a night of dancing and drinking in a colorful Colombian atmosphere. These vehicles are often arranged by hostels and tours.
Even though drug trafficking is a huge issue in Colombia, it’s still relatively safe to travel around the country. The country’s government has made strides in combating the illegal armed groups, and they are now focused on areas far away from the military presence.
8. Sample the Local Cuisine
Colombia is a diverse country, which means that there are many different types of food to try while on vacation. From the hearty to the sweet, Colombian cuisine offers something for everyone.
The classic Colombian meal consists of rice, beans, and meat of your choice, plus a salad and a drink. A popular lunch dish is patacones, which are fried plantains served with your choice of cheese, vegetables, and meat.
Another traditional meal is Pescado Frito, which is a fried fish served with rice and plantains. It’s served whole, with the skin and head intact, which makes for a unique flavor.
A passion fruit known as maracuya is popular throughout Colombia and can be eaten plain or dipped in hot chocolate. The yellow oval fruit is rich in Vitamin C and helps with digestion.
Colombia also has a wide variety of desserts to choose from. Natilla is a pudding-like dessert that locals make during Christmas time and bunuelos, which are cheese-filled balls, are a popular snack.
Plan Your Dream Trip to Colombia
Planning an unforgettable trip to Colombia is easy when you follow these tips and tricks. With its vibrant culture, stunning landscape, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Colombia is a truly unique destination that will be sure to create lasting memories for travelers of all ages.
