Is Colombia Worth Visiting? 19 Pros & Cons – You Decide!

Is Colombia worth visiting? It’s a country with a notorious reputation, which might be putting you off, but if you’re wondering whether Colombia is worth visiting, I’m here to tell you it is! 

Over the years, I’ve spent months travelling around the country, exploring cities like Bogota, Cali, and Medellin to smaller, less visited villages like Palomino and Taganga. Since my first trip, Colombia has remained one of my favourite countries.  

It’s an excellent place for nature lovers and adventure travellers, but there are drawbacks. I’ve gathered all the pros and cons and everything you need to know to decide if Colombia is worth visiting for you!

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Is Colombia Worth Visiting? Yes!

Even though Colombia has a bad reputation, most of that is in the past. Gone are the days when it was ruled by the cartels and feared as a place to travel. These days, it’s a popular backpacking destination with colourful coastal towns. 

I’m half-Colombian, thanks to my mama, so you might think me biased, but in truth, the country has so much to offer that if this wasn’t the case, I don’t think my opinion would change. 

From the first time I visited, I was amazed by the friendliness of the communities. This goes for the larger cities and the remote villages, as I usually find cities less welcoming. In Colombia, this wasn’t the case. 

I found the landscape also breathtaking. It’s the perfect location with varying climates from cooler mountain regions to warm tropical coasts.

Another reason why I think Colombia is worth visiting is the sheer amount of activities and attractions. It’s filled with national parks, making it a fantastic place for hiking trips; one of our favourites was the El Cocuy glacier hike. The country is world-renowned for its chocolate and coffee, and taking tours around the Fincas is a must-do activity.

There is just so much variety in Colombia, from the Caribbean coast to the snow-capped mountains, colonial towns and indigenous villages, the jungles, rivers and even deserts, that it’s hard to find a place that you won’t love!

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Is Colombia Worth Visiting: The Pros & Cons Summary

• Is Colombia Worth Visiting? Pros: Breathtaking National Parks, diverse wildlife, natural wonders, metropolitan cities and stunning beaches. Fantastic for adventure sports, coffee and chocolate tours and unique attractions. Fascinating culture and heritage. The art and festival scene are incredible, and the community is super welcoming. Ancient archaeological sites and Amazon exploration top off Colombia as a superb destination that’s worth visiting.
  
• Is Colombia Worth Visiting? Cons: Some areas are not as affordable as you might think; English is not widely spoken, nor is it the safest country in the world (although it’s not necessarily unsafe). For budget travellers, it can be challenging to eat healthily. Plus, since the country is vast, it takes a long time to travel between destinations, so it’s not great if you’re limited on time.

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Pros: The Best Reasons To Visit Colombia

1. National Parks

Colombia has 59 stunning national parks that vary in landscape, climate, and ecosystem. We’ve visited a few over the years, and they all offered a unique experience. 

One of our favourites was El Cocuy National Park, which is a high-altitude Andean park home to glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, and the rare Frailljones – a plant that only lives at high altitudes within paramo environments and native to Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador.

⭐ Pro tip >> Since El Cocuy is off the beaten track it can be difficult to get to and requires multiple buses from Bogota. If you prefer, join this two day tour available from Bogota which includes everything from transport, meals, guides and accommodation.

Another fantastic national park is Los Nevados National Park, which is within the Coffee region. Next to it lies Valle de Cocora, famous in its own right as a cloud forest and the place to go to see the iconic wax palm trees.

I experienced a wonderful trek through Los Nevados with a group of people I met at the hostel in Salento. We traversed through the forest, crossing rivers and deep valleys, and visited a hummingbird research centre high in the mountains before reaching the Valle de Cocora. Running through the valley is one of my favourite memories.

2. The Diverse Wildlife

Colombia is worth visiting for its wildlife alone! Home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, which makes it worth visiting if you love nature. Some of the most popular animals to spot in Colombia include jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, birds, and reptiles.

It’s the second most biodiverse country in the world, with a rich variety of native organisms. As of 2021, approximately 63,000 species have been recorded in Colombia, out of which 14% are found only in this country

One of the best places to see wildlife in Colombia is the Amazon rainforest, which covers over a third of the country. Another excellent spot for wildlife watching is the Tayrona National Park. When we were hiking Tayrona, we saw a snake hanging from a tree halfway through, consuming a monkey!  

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re interested in marine wildlife, you can head to the Pacific coast, where you can see migrating humpback whales. Boat trips from Sanquianga National Park or Parque Nacional Natural Uramba are good starting points.

3. Stunning Natural Wonders

Colombia boasts a diverse range of natural wonders, which is one of the top reasons to visit. The country is home to waterfalls, hot springs and several volcanoes, including Nevado del Ruiz, which is fantastic for trekking. Due to the volcanoes, you’ll find plenty of hot springs, like the thermal baths of Termales del Otoño, or the mud volcano of Totumo.

If you’re seeking a unique experience, I highly recommend the El Cocuy glacier hike. As mentioned, this was an unbelievable experience and one of our favourite takeaways from our trip.

Colombia also has a glacier hike at the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range; it’s the highest coastal mountain range in the tropics. The Tatacoa Desert is another must-visit destination, with its breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations.

The country is also home to many stunning rivers, including the Caño Cristales, known as the “River of Five Colors,” which is famous for its vibrant hues of blue, green, yellow, red, and black.

4. Unique Attractions

Another reason Colombia is worth visiting is that it’s home to interesting attractions that I haven’t experienced elsewhere. One of the most unique attractions is the Salt Cathedral, located in the town of Zipaquira, just outside of Bogota.

We took a taxi from Bogota to visit this underground cathedral. It’s carved out of a salt mine and features impressive architecture and artwork. My cousin, who we went with, really enjoyed this attraction.

Another popular attraction is Gutape Rock, located in the town of Guatape. It’s a massive rock formation offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a hot spot for hiking and rock climbing enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in history, there are tours available that explore the life and legacy of Pablo Escobar, the notorious drug lord who once terrorised Colombia. I went on the walking tour when I was in Medellin, and I can promise you they offer a fascinating glimpse into the dark history of the country.

The Las Lajas Sanctuary is another attraction that looks amazing, but it’s still on our list to visit since we haven’t had the chance to go yet. It’s a basilica church located in southern Colombia, built on top of the Guaitara River inside a canyon.

5. Metropolitan Cities

Colombia has many dynamic and exciting cities. Bogota, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of shopping and markets. We enjoyed the thriving nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

⭐ Pro tip >> If you visit Bogota, I would suggest staying in La Candelaria. It’s a colourful neighbourhood perfect to start your travels. There are plenty of places to eat and stay, and it’s within walking distance of the city centre.

Cali is known as the salsa capital of Colombia and has a lively nightlife scene with many salsa clubs and bars. It’s been years since I visited, and Jack hasn’t been, but it’s somewhere we’d like to return to.

Medellin, on the other hand, is infamous for its ties to the drug cartels. These days, you’ll find a bustling hub with beautiful views and a vibrant nightlife scene with many lively bars and clubs; partying in Medellin has always been fun!

6. Stunning Beaches

I think Colombia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in South America, which are definitely worth visiting. One of my favourite beaches in the world is Cabo San Juan, found at Tayrona National Park.

⭐ Pro tip >> You can trek through the park and stay the night at Cabo San Juan. There are limited facilities, such as hammocks and a few huts, but a night under the stars is a rite of passage for any backpacker to Colombia!

Another beach said to be worth visiting is the Playa Blanca, located in the Rosario Islands just off the coast of Cartagena. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. I loved the rural vibes at Palomino Beach, with a jungle-lined beach that stretches as far as the eye can see.

San Andres Island also has some fantastic beaches, such as Playa de Spratt Bight and Playa de San Luis, which are perfect for water sports like snorkelling and diving. These beaches offer spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and are great for swimming and sunbathing.

7. Adventure Sports

There are a variety of activities to choose from, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more. Therefore, if you’re after adventure, Colombia is a great place to visit.

One of the best places to experience adventure sports in Colombia is San Gil, a small town located in the Santander region. It’s got a reputation as the adventure sports capital of Colombia. It offers a range of activities, such as rafting on the Rio Fonce, paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon, and caving in the Cueva del Indio.

While we visited San Gill, we went rafting; it was super fun and exhilarating. It was only Jack and I, with our instructor, on a small canoe. The views were stunning as we travelled along the river backed by jungle.

⭐ Pro tip >> From San Gil, it’s also worth visiting Barichara and hiking along the valley to Guane, which is a lovely small village in Colombia. The Camino Real Hike was incredible. We witnessed breathtaking scenery and hardly any other people. I highly recommend this hike!

Other popular destinations for adventure sports include the coffee region, which offers excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities, and the Caribbean coast, where you can enjoy kitesurfing and windsurfing.

8. Coffee & Chocolate

Colombia is world-renowned for its chocolate and coffee plantations, making these regions a must-visit destination. If you’re a fan of these delicious treats, like me, then you’ll love the opportunities to taste and learn more about them in Colombia.

When it comes to coffee, Colombia is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters. There are many coffee plantations and farms throughout the country that offer tours and tastings.

One of the best places for coffee lovers to visit is Salento, a picturesque town in the Quindio region. So, of course, it was on my hit list, being a coffee lover myself.

In Salento, I visited a coffee farm and went on a tour. We learned how the coffee beans were harvested; we got to pick our own and then showed the roasting process. Included was a sampling of different coffee strengths. It was another superb experience.

⭐ Pro tip >> The small town of Salento is also where we departed from for the Los Nevados National Park and Valle de Cocora hikes.

As for chocolate, there are many chocolate farms and factories throughout the country that offer tours and tastings. One of the best places for chocolate lovers is in the surrounding countryside of Medellin. 

9. Interesting Culture & Heritage

If it’s culture you’re after Colombia is worth visiting! You will find that Colombia’s history is rich with cultural and heritage influences from various sources. The colonial towns and cities throughout the country are evidence of the Spanish influence on the country’s architecture, art, and religion. 

The indigenous tribes that existed in Colombia before the Spanish arrived have also contributed significantly to the country’s culture and heritage. Many of these communities have preserved their traditional ways of life, including their customs, languages, and art. 

In addition to the Spanish and indigenous influences, Afro-Caribbean culture has also played a significant role in shaping Colombia’s culture. You’ll notice the country’s coastal regions have vibrant communities with unique music, dance, and food that reflect the Afro-Caribbean heritage.

⭐ Pro tip >> The city of Cartagena, a place I’ve visited a number of times, is known for its colourful colonial architecture, lively music scene, and delicious seafood dishes. A good way to explore the city is on a guided walking tour.

10. The Art & Festival Scene

In Colombia, you can experience a vibrant and colourful art and festival scene. One of the world’s biggest carnival celebrations, the Carnival of Barranquilla, takes place in February and features colourful parades, music, dance, and traditional costumes.

The country is also home to traditional crafts, such as weaving, embroidery, and pottery, which you can often find showcased at local markets and fairs.

Besides the carnival, you can also explore the vibrant art scene in Colombia, which has many talented artists and painters. Fernando Botero, one of Colombia’s most famous artists, is known for his unique style of painting and sculpture. You can find his works in many museums around the world, including the Botero Museum in Bogota and sculptures in Plaza Botero, Medellin.

11. Welcoming Communities

If you’re looking for a country with a friendly community, Colombia is worth visiting! I found the locals to be full of warmth, hospitality, and friendliness towards us tourists. You’ll find them very welcoming and helpful, always happy to share their culture and traditions with outsiders.

We found that Colombians are also very proud of their country and love to showcase its beauty and diversity. You’ll find the locals are very approachable and easy to talk to, whether you’re looking for directions, recommendations, or just a friendly conversation. 

We have always found Colombians are willing to lend a helping hand, and they’ll go out of their way to make you feel at home.

12. Ancient Archeological Sites

Colombia is home to several fascinating archaeological sites that provide a glimpse into the country’s long history.

One of the most famous is Ciudad Perdida, also known as the Lost City. Although we haven’t visited it (yet), you’ll find it located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. It’s an ancient city built by the Tayrona people over 1,000 years ago. There are expeditions to reach it, which entail multi-day treks through dense jungle.

Another notable site is the San Agustín Archaeological Park, which features statues and tombs dating back to pre-Columbian times. Additionally, the Tierradentro Archaeological Park is home to a series of underground tombs and chambers that the indigenous people of the region created. 

⭐ Pro tip >> These are just a few examples of the many archaeological sites throughout Colombia. So, if this is your vibe, Colombia is undoubtedly going to be worth visiting!

13. Amazon Exploration

Colombia is home to a section of the Amazon rainforest, which is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and jaguars. The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, which makes Colombia an excellent destination for adventure seekers who want to explore the jungle. 

Some famous Amazon jungle expeditions in Colombia include visiting the Amacayacu National Park, the largest protected area in the Colombian Amazon, which offers guided tours through the jungle and a chance to see a variety of wildlife such as pink dolphins, monkeys, birds and the elusive Jaguar.

Another popular destination for Amazon jungle expeditions is the Serranía de la Macarena National Park, which is home to the Caño Cristales River. Or, you can explore the Amazon jungle by boat along the Amazon River, which runs through Colombia. 

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Cons: The Reasons Not To Visit Colombia

14. Not As Affordable As You Think

Colombia is often considered a budget-friendly destination, but it’s worth noting that it could be more expensive than you might think, especially when compared to Southeast Asia.

However, it’s still an affordable option in comparison to many Western nations. As a backpacker, you can still enjoy budget-friendly travel in Colombia, but it’s important to note that some areas can get quite expensive, such as Cartagena. 

Despite this, Colombia caters to all types of travellers, and there are many affordable options available for those on a budget, but just keep in mind that your money isn’t going to go as far as it would in other places, like Indonesia, for example.

15. English Is Not Widely Spoken

English is not widely spoken in Colombia, which can be a barrier for some of you who don’t speak Spanish. Since I am (almost) fluent, travelling to Colombia was a breeze for us, but not being able to communicate could make it a little more challenging to navigate the country, especially in more remote areas. 

However, this shouldn’t necessarily be a reason to avoid visiting Colombia. Most Colombians are friendly and welcoming, and there are ways to get around the language barrier, such as learning some basic Spanish phrases, using a translator app or hiring a local guide or translator. 

⭐ Pro tip >> There are tourist-friendly areas in Colombia where English is more commonly spoken, such as in popular cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena.

16. Food Is Heavily Fried/Unhealthy

Some of you might be hesitant to visit Colombia because the country’s cuisine is known for being heavy in fried foods and high in carbohydrates. This type of food may only be suitable for some, especially if you have specific dietary needs or health concerns. 

For backpackers on a shoestring budget, it can be pretty challenging to find food that isn’t fried and contains variety, although there will be plenty of fresh fruit once you reach the coast.

That said, it’s worth noting that Colombia has delicious food, and you’ll still be able to find healthy and delicious options if you’re eating in restaurants, or you could join a food tour to experience what the locals eat.

⭐ Pro tip >> Keep an eye out for the lunchtime set menus (around 10,000 COP), which usually include a starter of soup, a main meal of rice and chicken and a drink. You can pick these up for cheap. Empanadas are a popular street-food meal, usually stuffed with potato and meat – best eaten fresh.

17. The Country Is Vast

Since Colombia is a vast country with diverse landscapes, cultures, and attractions, some of you may find the size of the country intimidating and may feel overwhelmed about deciding where to go and what to do. 

If you have concerns over language barriers and transportation logistics, there might be better options than visiting Colombia. 

Despite these challenges, and from our last visit, we noticed the country is making significant progress in promoting tourism and improving infrastructure, making it easier and safer to explore.

18. Long Journeys Between Destinations

If you’re short on time, visiting Colombia might not be the best option either due to the country’s size. Getting from one destination to another can often involve long journeys. This can be especially troublesome if you’re looking to explore multiple regions of the country. 

However, suppose you’re planning on staying in one location or have at least two weeks to spare. In that case, Colombia can offer an incredible experience.

19. Not The Safest Country In The World

While Colombia has made significant progress in recent years, some of you might still have concerns about safety due to its past reputation as a dangerous country. While the situation has improved drastically, there are still some areas that are considered risky for tourists, and Colombia is not the safest country in the world overall to visit. 

However, it’s worth noting that we have visited the country numerous times and have had excellent experiences without any issues. 

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How Safe Is Colombia?

I remember when I first mentioned to my mum that I would be backpacking Colombia, she was not pleased at all, mostly overcome with worry. But the truth is, Colombia has come a long way since her time there. It’s a far cry from the same country she remembers, and it has even become one of the most popular South American countries for travellers to visit.

I tried to explain this to her by showing some recent statistics. She was still not satisfied, but I went nevertheless, confident that it would be fine. Fast forward to the present day, and the country’s safety continues to improve. 

The first time I visited was in 2015; I was among 3.3 million tourists that year. However, the latest data tells us this has increased, with over 4.5 million people visiting Colombia for tourism purposes. That’s a massive difference when compared to the 700,000 in the early 2000s.

You’ll also be happy to hear that crimes such as murder and kidnapping have dropped significantly. Historically, and due to the rise of drug trafficking cartels, crime was a huge concern. In the 1990s, the country experienced 85 intentional homicides per 100,000; however, today, this has dropped to 27; that’s down by more than 65%.

It’s interesting as this is lower than countries like Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Myanmar, which are all places I wouldn’t think twice about visiting. 

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Planning Your Trip To Colombia

If by now you’ve decided that Colombia is somewhere you would like to visit; I’ve put together a quick Colombia travel guide to help you plan your trip. This includes tips on must-visit places and practical information on how to get there, when to visit, and where to stay.

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re going to be using your phone, don’t forget about overseas data roaming. You’ll get charged for using your data. Try Airalo’s eSIMs and download a digital data pack. It’s quick and easy; great if you’re in a hurry.

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How Many Days In Colombia Is Enough?

The question of how many days are enough to explore the country is a tricky one, as Colombia offers a wide variety of experiences that can cater to different interests. 

Ultimately, the amount of time you spend in Colombia depends on what you want to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or all of the above, Colombia has something to offer, and the more time you have, the more you’ll be able to experience it.

Is Colombia Worth Visiting For A Week?

Suppose you’re looking to explore the bustling cities, learn about the country’s history, and visit its many museums and cultural attractions. In that case, you may want to set aside a week or more (I would suggest at least ten days) to explore the major cities like Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena. 

Is Colombia Worth Visiting For 3 Weeks?

On the other hand, if you’re interested in exploring Colombia’s natural beauty, then you may want to plan for a longer trip. The country boasts breathtaking landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains and stunning beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. If you want to experience all of this, then you may want to consider a three-week or even a month-long trip.

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Where’s Worth Visiting In Colombia?

Since we’ve established Colombia is a vast country, deciding where to visit can be challenging. To make the most of your trip, I recommend dividing your time between a few different regions: a city, the mountains and the Caribbean coast.

The 3 Top Cities

Firstly, the top three cities you should consider visiting are Bogota, Medellin, and Cali. Each of these cities has its unique character and charm, offering a range of experiences from historical landmarks to vibrant nightlife.

The Mountain Towns

If you’re looking for a more relaxed and natural setting, then a visit to a mountain town should be on your list. Villa de Leyva, San Gill, El Cocuy, and Salento are all great options. These towns provide an opportunity to explore national parks, hike in the mountains, and admire stunning landscapes.

The Caribbean Coast

Finally, no trip to Colombia would be complete without visiting the Caribbean Coast. Cartagena, Palomino, Barranquilla and Santa Marta are some of the most popular destinations, each with its distinct atmosphere. From relaxing on pristine beaches to immersing yourself in local culture, the Caribbean Coast has something for everyone.

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Helpful Accommodation Ideas

Following the above, I’ve selected a number of places to stay within a few locations according to budget. Although we haven’t stayed in them all, I wanted to help you plan your trip by providing some ideas on accommodation and prices for each location.

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Colombia?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. Colombia has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm and humid year-round. However, two distinct seasons affect the weather in different parts of the country. 

If you’re looking to visit the Caribbean coast, the dry season is the best time to go, as rainfall is lower and temperatures are comfortable. However, if you’re interested in exploring the Andean region, the wet season might be a better option, as the landscape is lush and green, and the rainfall usually comes in short bursts. 

⭐ Pro tip >> The dry season lasts from December to March. The wet season lasts from April to November. 

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How To Get To Colombia?

There are several options available, depending on your location and budget. 

If you’re coming from North America or Europe, the most common way to get to Colombia is by air. There are direct flights available from major cities such as New York, Miami, Madrid and London, as well as connecting flights from other cities. 

You can also consider taking a cruise to Colombia, as some major cruise lines have ports of call in the country, typically Cartagena. 

If you’re already in South America, you can travel to Colombia by bus or car from neighbouring countries such as Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. 

⭐ Pro tip >> Keep in mind that entry requirements and visa regulations might vary depending on your nationality, so be sure to check the latest information before you book your travel.

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The Best Ways To Travel Around Colombia

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, you might be wondering about the best ways to get around the country. Fortunately, there are several options to choose from depending on your budget, comfort level, and travel preferences.

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Is Visiting Colombia Affordable?

In general, Colombia can be an affordable destination to travel to, yes, but depending on where you go and what you do, prices will vary. The cost of living and travel expenses will increase or decrease depending on where you visit and your travel style. 

On a budget-friendly trip to Colombia, expect to pay something around £25 to £40 ($30 to $50) per day per person. This budget can cover basic accommodation, local transportation, street food, and some activities. 

If you are looking for a more comfortable trip, you can expect to spend around £45 to £75 ($60 to $100) per day per person, which can cover mid-range accommodation, meals at restaurants, tours, and other activities. 

⭐ Pro tip >> For a week-long trip to Colombia, a budget of £150 to £275 ($200 to $350) per person can be reasonable, while a mid-range trip can cost around £330 to £550 ($420 to $700) per person. 

Of course, these estimates are just rough guidelines, and your actual expenses can vary depending on your preferences. It’s always a good idea to research the costs of the specific places you plan to visit and the activities you want to do to get a more accurate idea of how much you will need to budget.

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Positive & Negative Impacts Of Tourism In Colombia

Like most places, tourism is having both positive and negative impacts on Colombia. 

On the one hand, it brings in significant revenue and creates job opportunities for locals. It is helping in promoting cultural exchange and can improve infrastructure and preserve historic sites. Tourism has also raised public awareness about environmental protection and conservation in the country.

On the other hand, tourism has been know to have a negative impact on the environment. This can include pollution and damage to Colombia’s natural habitats. In some areas, it has led to overcrowding and put a strain on local resources, which has caused resentment among locals. 

Although I didn’t notice this in Colombia, tourism can also contribute to the decline of traditional cultural practices, as well as encourage the development of an unsustainable tourism industry.

⭐ Pro tip >> To maintain sustainable tourism, it’s important to carefully select your activities while visiting the country to ensure that both you and locals benefit while minimising negative impacts on the environment and culture.

FAQs: Is Colombia Worth Visiting?

Should you tip in Colombia?

Tipping is not expected in Colombia, although you can if you feel the meal and service were superior. In most cases, a service charge is added to the bill, which covers the need for tipping.  

Is Colombia safe for female Travellers?

The first time I visited Colombia, I was travelling alone and felt safe. Therefore, I would say Colombia is safe for solo female travellers. That said, as with any destination, it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. I’d also suggest dressing conservatively and avoiding walking alone at night.

What is the #1 tourist attraction in Colombia?

I put this to a poll, and the most famous landmark in Colombia is the San Felipe de Barajas Castle in the beautiful city of Cartagena. However, I would also argue that Cabo San Juan Beach, which is in the Tayrona National Park of Santa Marta, Monserrate, and the Salt Cathedral are also top Colombian attractions. For the adventurers, the ancient city of Ciudad Perdida, also known as the Lost City, ranks high!

Can you use a debit card in Colombia?

Yes, you can use your credit card and debit card in Colombia. Most businesses and ATMs in major cities accept international debit cards. Be sure to inform your bank that you’ll be travelling to Colombia to avoid any issues with your card being blocked. Also, keep in mind that some smaller towns and establishments may not accept cards, so it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case.

Do UK/USA citizens need a visa for Colombia?

UK and USA citizens do not need a visa for visits to Colombia of up to 90 days as tourists. However, you must ensure that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Colombia. Nevertheless, always check the latest entry requirements before travelling to any country.

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In Summary: Is Colombia Worth Visiting?

As always, I leave you with my final thoughts about whether Colombia is worth visiting or not. From my experience, I will always recommend Colombia as a place worth visiting; I am a big fan of the country!

A few of my favourite locations are Bogota (probably because my cousin lives there), Medellin, Villa de Leyva, Salento, and Palomino. All of the national parks have been breathtaking, but El Cocuy was on another level.

To make the most of your trip, I do think at least ten days is needed, preferably more, and a three-week vacation would be ideal.