Things to Know Before Visiting Colombia: A Practical Guide for International Travelers

Colombia is one of the most dynamic destinations in Latin America, full of energy, culture, and natural beauty. But like any trip abroad, it’s important to know what to expect before landing. Whether we’re arriving in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, or any of the country’s other vibrant cities, having a few key details in mind will make our experience smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable.

This guide is designed to give international travelers the essential things to know before visiting Colombia: what to prepare before arrival, how to move around the country safely, everyday logistics, and practical tips that often get overlooked.

Arrival & Immigration: Starting Off on the Right Foot

Proof of Accommodation

Immigration officials frequently ask where we’re staying. Whether it’s a hotel or Airbnb, you should always carry a confirmation — ideally printed, but at least saved offline on you phone. Wi-Fi isn’t guaranteed at the airport, and showing a PDF or screenshot avoids unnecessary delays.

Customs & Cash Limits

International travelers can bring up to $10,000 USD in cash into Colombia. More than that must be declared, and not doing so could cause major problems. That said, carrying large amounts of cash is unnecessary. ATMs in Colombia offer better exchange rates than airport kiosks or currency exchanges back home. The main limitation is that ATMs usually cap withdrawals around $500 USD per transaction, so planning ahead is wise.

Cards & Payments

• Visa and Mastercard: Widely accepted across major cities.
• American Express: Unreliable, accepted only in select upscale places.
• US Dollars / Euros: Not accepted directly; they must be exchanged.
• Cash Is King: Smaller businesses, street vendors, and rural areas often only take cash, so it’s useful to always keep pesos on hand.

Getting from the Airport: The First Big Decision

One of the most common mistakes travelers make in Colombia is hopping into the first taxi they see at the airport. Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Uber Is Best: Although Uber technically operates in a legal gray zone in Colombia, it is widely used by locals and travelers alike. It’s safer, more reliable, and avoids fare haggling. Download Uber before arrival, or consider alternatives like InDriver and Didi.
• Avoid Street Taxis: Even the US Embassy prohibits staff from using them, due to safety concerns. Street taxis can involve scams, inflated fares, or in rare cases, more serious issues.
• Hotel Transfers: Many hotels can arrange trusted drivers for pickups, often at competitive rates. This is a reliable fallback option if ride apps are slow.

For a smooth start, we always recommend arranging transport in advance — either via Uber or through our accommodation.

Getting Around Colombian Cities

Colombian cities are large and spread out, so having a transport strategy matters.

Ride Apps

Ride-hailing apps are the safest and most convenient way to get around. Uber and InDriver dominate in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. They’re inexpensive compared to many countries, and they provide peace of mind since routes and fares are logged digitally.

Public Transportation

• Medellín Metro: Clean, efficient, and a point of local pride. Great for daytime travel.
• Bogotá TransMilenio: The bus rapid transit system is effective but crowded, and can be confusing for newcomers.
• Cartagena: Public transport is limited. Ride apps are the best option.

While public transport is fine for seasoned travelers or those staying long-term, for short visits, ride apps remain the simplest, safest option.

Walking

Walking is enjoyable in well-trafficked neighborhoods like Bogotá’s La Candelaria or Medellín’s El Poblado. But after dark, or in less central areas, it’s always safer to call an Uber.

Safety & Street Smarts: Common-Sense Rules That Matter

Colombia today is much safer than its past reputation suggests, but like any big destination, street smarts are essential.

• Leave Valuables at Home: Rolexes, designer jewelry, or luxury handbags make us stand out. Best to keep things simple.
• Keep Phones Hidden: Petty theft is the most common issue. Avoid texting or navigating with our phone in hand while walking down busy streets.
• Nightlife Awareness: A recurring issue in Colombian cities is tourists being drugged and robbed after bringing strangers home from bars or clubs. It happens more often than most realize, so we recommend sticking to well-known venues, traveling with friends, and being cautious about companions.
• Stick to Crowds: Avoid isolated areas at night. Busy streets, plazas, and ride apps are the safest choices.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels off, it probably is.

With these precautions, most visits are trouble-free — Colombians are incredibly welcoming, and petty theft is by far the most common risk.

Everyday Logistics

Essential Apps

• Uber / InDriver: For safe rides.
• Rappi: Colombia’s do-everything delivery app. Food, groceries, medicine, even alcohol — Rappi delivers almost anything, usually within minutes.
• Google Translate: Useful for quick Spanish-to-English help in shops, taxis, or restaurants.

Language

English is spoken in tourist-friendly spots and by some younger Colombians, but not everywhere. A few Spanish basics (“gracias,” “la cuenta, por favor,” “¿cuánto cuesta?”) go a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort.

Connectivity

Buying a local SIM card is inexpensive and makes travel much easier. Claro and Tigo are the most reliable providers. Cards can be purchased at airports, shopping malls, or convenience stores. Having data on hand makes calling Ubers, navigating cities, and translating conversations stress-free.

Weather & Packing

Colombia is close to the equator, but temperatures vary by altitude, not season.

• Bogotá: Cool year-round (14°C / 57°F on average). Jackets and umbrellas are essential.
• Medellín: Known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” Mild, pleasant weather all year.
• Cartagena & Coast: Hot and humid. Lightweight clothing and sun protection are crucial.
• Coffee Region: Temperate, with occasional rain showers.

Packing layers is key if we’re visiting multiple cities.

Quick Practical Tips

• Tipping: 10% at restaurants is customary. Some bills already include it, so check first.
• Plugs: Colombia uses the same plugs as the US (Type A/B, 110V). Travelers from Europe or Asia will need adapters.
• Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink in Bogotá, Medellín, and many larger cities. Stick to bottled water on the coast or in rural areas.
• Altitude Awareness: Bogotá sits at 2,640m (8,660 ft). The thinner air can cause fatigue or headaches. Drink water, take it easy the first day, and avoid heavy drinking upon arrival.
• Personal Space: Colombians are warm but not overly formal. Handshakes and light cheek kisses (one side) are common greetings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colombia safe for international tourists?
Yes, with precautions. Petty theft is the main concern, not violent crime. Stick to ride apps, keep valuables hidden, and use common sense.

How long should we spend in Colombia?
At least a week to explore one or two major cities. Two weeks lets us combine Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and possibly the coffee region or Caribbean coast.

Do we need to book things in advance?
Yes, for top restaurants, tours, and boutique experiences. For transport and attractions, we can book on the spot.

What’s the dress code like?
Urban Colombians dress smartly. Even casual outfits lean toward neat jeans, jackets, and shoes rather than shorts and flip-flops. Packing to blend in is both respectful and practical.

Travel, But Like a Local, with Cielo Travel

Colombia is no longer just a hidden gem — it’s a thriving, modern destination that offers travelers everything from Andean metropolises to Caribbean beaches. With preparation and awareness, we can enjoy Colombia safely and confidently.

From immigration to Uber rides, from everyday apps to safety habits, these are the details that make a trip smoother. And Cielo Travel is here to help you every step of the way—and when it comes to booking the right hotel and restaurants, too.