Travel tips
All the practical information you need to plan your trip
Good to know
Colombia, the only South American nation bordered by both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans (Caribbean Sea), is a country of exceptional biodiversity and fascinating geographical contrasts. Located near the equator, it shares borders with Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador, and spans a mosaic of landscapes ranging from tropical beaches to snow-capped peaks.
The country is dominated by the Andes mountain range, which is divided into three major chains (Western, Central, Eastern), creating a rugged topography with varied climates depending on altitude. It is home to the Páramo, a unique high-altitude ecosystem found in tropical high mountains. There are also the vast eastern plains (the Llanos), the lush Amazon rainforest in the south, and the hot and humid regions of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
It is possible to travel to Colombia all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (December to March and July to September).
Colombia is as large as France and Spain combined. To fully enjoy it, allow between two and three weeks. For a shorter stay, focus on exploring a single region.
Whether you're traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, our activities are tailored to suit every audience.
For those seeking untamed nature, vibrant culture, and authentic experiences.
From Paris:
11 hours direct flight to Bogota
From Amsterdam:
14 hours to Cartagena (stopover in Bogota)
Compared to England: 5 hours (winter time) / 6 hours (summer time)
Compared to Germany: 6 hours (winter time) / 7 hours (summer time)
Round-trip airline ticket
Passport valid for 6 months after the date of entry into the country (European citizens).
Pre-registration on the Colombian immigration website Check-mig starting 72 hours before the flight.
The local currency is the Colombian peso (COP).
You will find currency exchange offices in major cities and airports.
ATMs are readily available in urban centers.
Depending on your itinerary, it is advisable to plan ahead and withdraw cash in town so that you don't run out.
Credit cards are not always accepted, especially in small shops and local establishments.
In most restaurants, a 10% service charge is usually added automatically to the bill (tip).
Essential items to bring include: a cap or hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, comfortable shoes, light clothing and rain gear, sunglasses, a swimsuit, and a type A adapter (110V).
Also remember to bring a first-aid kit, a microfiber towel, a pair of flip-flops, low-cut hiking shoes, an insulated water bottle, a sweater for cooler areas down to 10°C, and a small backpack.
There are a few essential health items you should pack in your suitcase to ensure a peaceful trip to Colombia.
Anti-diarrhea medication is essential, as minor digestive problems can quickly arise: it is strongly advised not to drink tap water outside of major cities (Bogotá and Medellín) and it is better to stick to bottled water. Paracetamol will also come in handy, as the heat can play tricks on you.
Finally, bring medication for motion sickness, as Colombia's road infrastructure is sometimes far from what we are used to in Europe, and mountain roads are marked by numerous winding turns.
Lunch: €8–12, dinner: €10–15, up to €25 in large cities.
Souvenirs: a packet of good Colombian coffee from €10, handicrafts between €5 and €100.
A small tip (€5–25) is welcome if you appreciated the service.
Our itineraries focus on welcoming and safe regions.
A few tips:
Avoid walking around late at night in the streets of large cities.
Always take taxis recommended by hotels, guides, or restaurants.
No dar papaya: don't attract attention with jewelry or other valuable items.
No vaccinations are required for urban travel (Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena).
Travelers coming from Brazil, Angola, Uganda, or the DRC must present a yellow fever certificate.
The yellow fever vaccine may be required for access to tropical areas such as the Amazon or Tayrona Park (also bring a good mosquito repellent).