Republic of Colombia
South America
Colombia blends rich culture, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities for a
multifaceted travel experience.
Regions of Republic of Colombia
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Antioquia
Antioquia is a northwestern Colombian department with Medellin.
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Arauca
Arauca is a northeastern department bordering Venezuela.
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Atlantico
Atlantico is a northern coastal department in Colombia.
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Boyaca
Boyaca is a central Colombian department with agriculture.
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Caldas
Caldas is a department in central Colombia, coffee growing region.
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Caqueta
Caqueta is a department in southern Colombia, Amazon basin.
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Casanare
Casanare is an eastern Colombian department with plains.
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Cauca
Cauca is a southwestern department with indigenous communities.
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Cesar
Cesar is a northern department in Colombia.
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Choco
Choco is a western department with Pacific coastline.
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Bogota
Bogota is the capital district of Colombia.
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Guainia
Guainia is an eastern department bordering Venezuela.
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Guaviare
Guaviare is a southern department in Colombia.
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Huila
Huila is a southwestern Colombian department.
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La Guajira
La Guajira is a northern department on the Caribbean coast.
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Meta
Meta is a central department with plains and agriculture.
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Norte de Santander
Norte de Santander is a northeastern department bordering Venezuela.
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Putumayo
Putumayo is a southern department in Colombia.
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Quindio
Quindio is a small coffee-growing department in Colombia.
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Risaralda
Risaralda is a coffee-growing department in western Colombia.
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Santander
Santander is a northeastern department with mountains.
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Sucre
Sucre is a northern coastal department in Colombia.
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Tolima
Tolima is a central department with agriculture and volcanoes.
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Valle del Cauca
Valle del Cauca is a western department with Cali as capital.
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Vaupes
Vaupes is a southern department in the Amazon basin.
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Vichada
Vichada is an eastern department with savannahs.
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Amazonas
Amazonas is a southern department in Colombia, largely rainforest.
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Bolivar
Bolivar is a northern department with Cartagena as capital.
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Cordoba
Cordoba is a northern coastal department in Colombia.
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Magdalena
Magdalena is a northern coastal department in Colombia.
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Narino
Narino is a southwestern department bordering Ecuador.
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San Andres y Providencia
San Andres y Providencia is an island department in the Caribbean.
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Description
Colombia is a diverse South American country featuring vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, and varied landscapes including the Amazon rainforest, Andean mountains, and Caribbean coast. Its history is a tapestry of indigenous, Spanish colonial, and Afro-Caribbean influences. Colombia offers a dynamic blend of urban life, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a compelling destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Regions and Resorts
**Key Regions:**
- **Bogotá:** The capital city with museums, colonial architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods.
- **Cartagena:** Historic Caribbean port city known for its walled old town and beaches.
- **Medellín:** Modern city famed for its innovation and pleasant climate.
- **Coffee Triangle:** Scenic highlands producing world-renowned coffee.
- **Amazon Region:** Dense rainforest and indigenous cultures.
These regions offer cultural immersion, beach relaxation, and eco-tourism options suitable for various traveler types.
Climate
Colombia’s climate varies by altitude and region:
- **Coastal Areas:** Tropical and humid.
- **Andean Highlands:** Cooler temperatures year-round.
- **Amazon Basin:** Hot and humid with significant rainfall.
Dry seasons from December to March and July to August are preferred for travel.
Visa and Customs
- **Visa:** Many nationalities receive visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days.
- **Passport Validity:** Minimum 6 months.
- **Customs:** Restrictions on certain foodstuffs, plants, and drugs.
- **Currency:** Colombian Peso (COP).
How to Get There
- **Main Airports:** El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogotá, Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) in Cartagena, José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Medellín.
- **Flights:** Direct connections from North America, Europe, and neighboring South American countries.
- **Land Borders:** Overland routes connect with Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil.
Transport
**Transport Options:**
- **Domestic Flights:** Efficient for covering large distances.
- **Buses:** Extensive network connecting urban and rural areas.
- **Metro:** Medellín has a modern metro system.
- **Taxis and Ride-Sharing:** Widely available in cities.
Car Rental
- **Requirements:** Valid driver’s license; international permit recommended.
- **Driving:** Right-hand traffic.
- **Road Conditions:** Vary widely; major highways are well-maintained, rural roads may be challenging.
- **Advice:** Avoid driving at night outside urban centers.
Communication and Wi-Fi
- **Internet:** Widely available in urban and tourist areas.
- **Wi-Fi:** Provided in hotels, cafes, and public spaces.
- **SIM Cards:** Easily purchased with ID; major providers include Claro, Movistar, and Tigo.
- **Coverage:** Good in cities and towns, limited in remote areas.
Hotels
**Accommodation:**
- Options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
- Prices vary by region:
- Budget: $15–40 per night
- Mid-range: $50–120 per night
- Luxury: $150+ per night
Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
Money
- **Currency:** Colombian Peso (COP).
- **Cards:** Widely accepted in cities and tourist centers.
- **ATMs:** Common in urban areas.
- **Typical Expenses:**
- Meals: $5–20
- Transport: Affordable
- **Tipping:** Around 10% is customary in restaurants.
Useful Phone Numbers
- Emergency: 123
- Tourist Police: +57 1 343 1077
- Airport Information (Bogotá): +57 1 219 5040
Beaches
Colombia's Caribbean coast offers sandy beaches with warm waters:
- Popular spots include Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Tayrona National Park.
- Beaches range from lively resort areas to secluded natural bays.
- Best visited during the dry season.
Diving
Diving opportunities exist along the Caribbean coast and around islands such as San Andrés and Providencia. Marine life includes coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasional encounters with larger species. Dive centers offer courses and guided tours.
Shopping
**Shopping:**
- Markets offer artisanal crafts, emeralds, textiles, and coffee products.
- Shopping malls and boutiques are prevalent in cities.
- Bargaining is common in markets but fixed prices are standard in stores.
Cuisine and Restaurants
**Cuisine:**
- Colombian cuisine varies regionally with staples like arepas, bandeja paisa, and fresh seafood.
- Street food and local markets provide authentic options.
- Urban restaurants range from casual to fine dining.
- Coffee culture is prominent and widely accessible.
Top destinations from the country
Ekuador menggabungkan ekosistem yang beragam dan warisan budaya yang kaya, dari Andes dan Amazon ke Kepulauan Galápagos.
Peru menggabungkan puncak Andes, Amazon keanekaragaman hayati, dan sejarah Inca menjadi pengalaman perjalanan yang tak terlupakan.
Panama features the iconic canal, lush rainforests, and a lively multicultural atmosphere.
Immerse in Brazil’s vibrant Rio, lush Amazon, and stunning Iguazú Falls, perfect for families, adventurers, and culture lovers.
Mexico blends ancient history, lively culture, and diverse landscapes, from beaches to deserts and urban centers.
Discover Argentina’s vibrant Buenos Aires, stunning Iguazú Falls, and Patagonian wonders, perfect for adventurers, families, and culture enthusiasts.
The USA offers world-famous landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant cultural experiences across its vast territory.
Spain blends historic cities, Mediterranean beaches, and vibrant culture, offering varied experiences for every traveler.
