Colombia: Your Next Great Destination

Colombia has undergone an impressive tourism transformation over the last decade. What was once a country many avoided has become one of the most coveted destinations in South America, attracting millions of travelers each year with its biodiversity, vibrant culture, and the legendary hospitality of its people. If you are planning your first trip to Colombia, this complete guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable experience.

Documentation and Entry Requirements

Most tourists from the Americas, Europe, and several Asian countries can enter Colombia without a visa, with a stay permit of up to 90 days. You only need a valid passport with at least six months of validity. It is advisable to carry a printed copy of your return itinerary and proof of accommodation, as immigration authorities may request them.

Regarding vaccines, while not mandatory for all travelers, the yellow fever vaccine is recommended if you plan to visit jungle areas or regions below 2,300 meters altitude. Consult your doctor at least one month before the trip.

Bogota: The Gateway

The Colombian capital is the natural arrival point for most international travelers. Bogota is a metropolis of over eight million inhabitants that combines colonial history, contemporary art, and a gastronomic scene that competes with the best on the continent. The La Candelaria neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and artistic graffiti, is the cultural heart of the city. Do not miss the Gold Museum, Bolivar Square, and Monserrate Hill for an impressive panoramic view.

Bogota is also an excellent starting point for exploring nearby destinations like the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and the Guatavita Lagoon, birthplace of the El Dorado legend.

The Coffee Region: Pereira, Dosquebradas, and More

A visit to Colombia is not complete without touring the Coffee Region, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pereira is the gateway to this magical region, a city that has reinvented itself as a modern tourist destination without losing its coffee-growing essence. From Pereira you can access the Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms, the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal, and the coffee plantations where you will learn the entire bean-to-cup process.

Dosquebradas, a neighboring city of Pereira, is an emerging destination that surprises with its growing gastronomic and commercial offerings. The Pereira-Dosquebradas metropolitan area offers an ideal base for exploring the entire region, with good transport connections and constantly improving tourist infrastructure.

On Encontrable you can discover the best restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and local experiences in both Pereira and Dosquebradas. The platform allows you to find those authentic places only locals know, from coffee farms with accommodation to secret viewpoints overlooking the coffee landscape.

The Caribbean Coast: Cartagena and Santa Marta

The Colombian Caribbean is a world apart. Cartagena de Indias, with its perfectly preserved walled city, is pure colonial magic. Stroll through its colorful streets, enjoy Caribbean cuisine, and visit the Rosario Islands to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Santa Marta, Colombia's oldest city, is the gateway to Tayrona National Park and the famous trek to the Lost City.

Budget and Money

Colombia is an accessible destination for most budgets. The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). A mid-budget traveler can spend between 150,000 and 250,000 COP per day (approximately 35-60 USD) including accommodation, food, and local transport. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, although it is advisable to carry cash for small towns and local markets.

Colombia was named the best nature destination in South America by the World Travel Awards in consecutive years, consolidating its position as a regional tourism powerhouse.

Practical Tips for Your First Trip

  • Pack clothes for different climates: Colombia has all thermal floors, from hot beaches to cold highland moors
  • Download offline Google Maps for rural areas where signal may be limited
  • Try Colombian coffee in every region you visit: the flavor changes with altitude and origin
  • Learn local expressions: "Quiubo?" (greeting), "parce" (friend), and "chevere" (cool) will open many doors
  • Use platforms like Encontrable to discover local businesses and authentic experiences at each destination
  • Buy a local SIM card from Claro or Movistar at the airport for mobile data

Safety: What You Should Know

Colombia has improved enormously in safety over the last two decades. Major tourist areas are safe and have police presence. As with any destination, apply common sense: do not unnecessarily display valuables, use ride-hailing apps at night, and stay in busy areas. Colombians are incredibly friendly and will be happy to help if you need directions.

If this guide has inspired you to discover Colombia, do not miss our other travel guides to continue planning your adventure. You can also explore our traveler tips section where we share tricks to make every trip an unforgettable experience. To discover Colombian gastronomic richness, visit our gastronomy section.