Planning a trip to Colombia? Get ready for stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and some of the most welcoming people in the world. But before you pack your bags, there are a few crucial things you need to know to make your trip as smooth as possible. Don’t leave home without these five essential tips—or risk becoming that tourist. You know, the one who gets scammed, sunburned, or stuck on the side of a mountain because they didn’t read the fine print.
1. Travel Insurance – A Must-Have
Colombia is an adventure-packed destination, but with adventure comes risk. Whether you’re trekking through the Amazon, paragliding over Medellín, or just trying to cross the street in Bogotá’s chaotic traffic (seriously, it’s an Olympic sport), travel insurance is non-negotiable. Medical care can be expensive for travelers, and some activities come with inherent risks. That accidental llama encounter? Not covered by your regular health plan.
On a personal note, I learned this the hard way when I twisted my ankle attempting to salsa dance in Cali. Let’s just say the hospital bill would’ve hurt more than my pride if I hadn’t had insurance. Make sure your policy includes emergency evacuation and trip cancellations—you never know when a spontaneous mudslide (or an even more spontaneous bad decision) might change your plans.
Pro Tip: Check out World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Allianz for solid adventure-friendly coverage.
2. Cash and Payment Methods
While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, cash is still king in smaller towns and markets. ATMs from Bancolombia, Davivienda, and BBVA are your best bet for security, and while you can exchange a small amount at the airport, better rates are found in the city. Just be prepared for some odd looks if you try to pay for a tiny empanada with a 50,000 peso bill—I learned that one firsthand.
Always carry small bills and change, as many businesses won’t break large denominations. Plus, it makes you look less like a clueless tourist.
Pro Tip: Having a mix of payment options will save you from ATM outages or vendors who “mysteriously” can’t find their card machine.
3. Safety Awareness & Common Scams
Colombia is much safer than it used to be, but like any tourist hotspot, there are risks. Stick to well-known neighborhoods like El Poblado (Medellín), La Candelaria (Bogotá – during the day), and Getsemaní (Cartagena). Leave flashy jewelry at home unless you’re in the market for an impromptu donation. Also, beware of common scams like fake police asking for your passport, the “mustard scam” (someone spills something on you to distract and rob you), and taxi drivers who seem to think their meters run on fairy dust and dreams.
Speaking of taxis, I once had a driver try to charge me three times the normal rate in Bogotá. Luckily, I had checked the fair price on an app beforehand. His face when I called him out? Priceless.
Pro Tip: Use apps like iOverlander or local Facebook expat groups for real-time safety updates.
4. The Right Travel Apps
Technology is your best friend when navigating a new country. Download these essential apps before you go:
- Ride-Sharing & Taxis: DiDi, Cabify, inDriver (cheaper and safer than street taxis).
- Maps & Navigation: Google Maps (download offline maps) and Maps.me.
- Translation: Google Translate (download Spanish for offline use). Also, learn the phrase “Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?) unless you want to be charged the “gringo tax.”
- Money Conversion: XE Currency or Revolut for real-time exchange rates.
I once got so lost in Bogotá’s La Candelaria that I had to bribe a street vendor with an arepa to help me find my hostel. A good navigation app (or an extra arepa) would’ve saved the day.
Pro Tip: Always have a backup—screenshots of directions, addresses, and important numbers in case of a lost connection.
5. Adapting to the Altitude & Climate
Colombia’s geography means drastic altitude and climate changes. You could be sweating in Cartagena one day and out of breath in Bogotá the next. Bogotá and Medellín sit at high elevations, so give yourself a day to adjust, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol at first (or risk feeling like you’ve been hit by a bus).
I learned this lesson the hard way when I arrived in Bogotá and decided to hike Monserrate without properly hydrating. Altitude sickness is no joke, and neither is the embarrassment of nearly passing out halfway up the mountain while an elderly woman casually overtakes you.
Pro Tip: Sunscreen is essential! Even in cooler areas, the sun is strong due to the altitude. Otherwise, you’ll go home looking like a lobster.
Final Thoughts
Colombia is an incredible destination, but a little preparation goes a long way. By keeping these five things in mind, you’ll ensure a safe, smooth, and unforgettable adventure. Now go enjoy those arepas, dance some salsa (just watch your ankles), and soak in the beauty of this amazing country!
What’s your must-know tip for traveling to Colombia? Drop it in the comments!
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