Colombia is an incredible country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. Whether you’re planning to hike in the Andes, explore the Caribbean coast, or enjoy the vibrant city life, Colombia will not disappoint. To help make your visit smooth and fun, here are some essential travel tips.
Safety Tips in Colombia
Colombia has come a long way from its troubled past, but safety should still be a priority. Stay alert and use your common sense. In cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, there are neighborhoods that are safer than others.
Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night. Neighborhoods like La Candelaria in Bogotá or El Poblado in Medellín are generally safe for tourists, but avoid wandering into isolated areas.
Leave flashy jewelry, expensive watches, or wads of cash back at your accommodation. Pickpocketing can happen, especially in crowded areas or public transportation.
Use authorized taxis. While apps like Uber are technically illegal in Colombia, they still operate in many cities. You can use Uber, Taxis Libres, or call a cab from your hotel.
If you plan to hike or visit rural areas, make sure you research the region first or go with a local guide. Some areas still have landmines or are restricted due to conflict.

Keep a copy of your passport in a safe place, and use a money belt or hidden pouch to store your valuables.
Transportation in Colombia
Getting Around by Bus
Buses are the most popular form of transport for long distances. They are cheap and comfortable. The best bus companies include Expreso Brasilia, Bolivariano, and Flota Magdalena. Make sure to book your tickets in advance if traveling during holidays or weekends.
Bus rides can be long because Colombia’s road network goes through mountains. Bring snacks, water, and something to do, especially if the trip is over six hours.
Flying Within Colombia
Colombia is a big country, and internal flights are often an efficient way to get around. Consider flying if you’re short on time. Major domestic airlines include Avianca, Viva Air, and LATAM. They offer affordable flights between cities.
Book flights in advance to get the best deals. Be sure to check baggage limits on budget airlines as they often have strict policies.
Public Transportation in Cities
Bogotá has a reliable TransMilenio bus system, but it can get crowded. Medellín has one of the most modern metro systems in South America, and it’s a great way to move around the city.
Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded buses or metro stations. Most cities also have colectivos (shared vans) for more localized routes.

Money-Saving Tips
Colombia is already an affordable destination compared to North America and Europe, but there are still ways to save even more.
Eat at Local Restaurants
“Menu del día” (menu of the day) is common in local restaurants. For a fixed price, often $3-5 USD, you’ll get a full meal including soup, a main dish, juice, and dessert.
Street food like empanadas, arepas, or buñuelos is cheap and delicious. Try these options to save money on food.
Use Public Transportation
Instead of taking taxis or car-sharing services, use local buses or metros. It costs a fraction of the price and lets you see more local life.

Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses
Accommodation in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena can be pricey, but hostels and guesthouses make it affordable. There’s usually a good mix of private rooms and dormitories.
For solo travelers, staying at hostels is also a great place to meet people and join free or budget-friendly tours.
Plan Ahead for Popular Destinations
If you’re visiting places like Ciudad Perdida or the Amazon, plan and budget accordingly. Tours can be expensive, so it helps to research providers in advance for deals or low season offers.

Understanding Colombia’s Culture
Respect for Personal Space
Colombians are friendly, but they also value their personal space. Avoid being too pushy or loud in public spaces. A handshake or light kiss on the cheek is common when greeting locals.
Be respectful and avoid making jokes about Colombia’s past with drug cartels or violence. Most Colombians want to leave that chapter behind, and bringing it up can be offensive.
Punctuality is Flexible
If you’re meeting a local, don’t be surprised if they arrive 10-15 minutes late. Time is more relaxed here. Appointments usually run a bit behind schedule unless it’s for business purposes.
Haggling Isn’t Common
While bargaining is common in some countries, it’s not as typical in Colombia. For street vendors or markets, you can try negotiating the price, but in most stores, prices are fixed.
Eating Etiquette
When invited to a Colombian’s home, it’s common to bring a gift like wine, chocolates, or flowers. When eating, wait until everyone is seated and has their plate before you start eating.
Language Tips
Spanish is Colombia’s official language, and while English is spoken in some tourist areas, it’s good to learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
Essential Spanish Phrases
Here are some useful Spanish phrases to help you get around:
- Hola (Hello)
- Buenos días (Good morning)
- Por favor (Please)
- Gracias (Thank you)
- ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much does it cost?)
- ¿Dónde está …? (Where is …?)
- La cuenta, por favor (The bill, please)
- No hablo mucho español (I don’t speak much Spanish)
Even if you’re just saying “gracias,” locals will appreciate the effort you make to speak their language. It goes a long way in building connections and blending in with the locals.
What to Avoid
Here are a few things to avoid to help navigate your trip smoothly:
Avoid Talking About Narcos
As I mentioned earlier, the topic of drug cartels is sensitive for many Colombians. Avoid bringing up topics like Pablo Escobar or infamous Netflix series like “Narcos” when talking with locals.
Don’t Flush Toilet Paper
In many places in Colombia, the plumbing systems aren’t strong enough to handle toilet paper. Most bathrooms have a bin for used paper. Though it might seem strange if you’re unfamiliar, it’s a common practice.
Avoid Drinking Tap Water in Some Areas
The tap water is safe to drink in Bogotá and Medellín, but in smaller towns or rural areas, stick to bottled water. Always ask the locals if you’re unsure.
Best Time to Visit
Colombia is a year-round destination thanks to its tropical climate, but some months are better than others depending on what you want to experience.
Dry Season (December to March)
This is the best time to visit if you want to avoid too much rain, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities like hiking. Keep in mind that this is high season, so expect more tourists and higher prices.
Rainy Season (April to November)
The wet season doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck indoors all day, but expect short bursts of heavy rain. This is a good time if you want fewer tourists and are okay with occasional showers.
Final Thoughts
Colombia is an amazing country with so much to offer. With stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and friendly locals, it’s no surprise that more and more travelers are adding Colombia to their bucket lists. By following these practical tips, you’ll be sure to have an enjoyable and safe adventure. Happy travels!
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