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Colombia FAQ

Is tipping customary in Colombia?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it's advisable to tip restaurant and hotel staff since many Colombians receive low wages. Any extra income will be welcomed.

What is the internet access like in Colombia?

Internet access is easily found in Colombia’s large cities and metropolitan areas, but less so in more remote areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Colombia?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Colombia, especially in large cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas, especially if travelling in mountainous regions. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Colombia.

What are the toilets like in Colombia?

Sit-down, flushable toilets are the standard in Colombia, although toilet paper and soap may not be provided, so be sure to carry your own. Public toilets are quite rare so don’t expect to find many, except at the airport or in museums or malls.

What will it cost for a…?

Soft drink = 1,500 COP
Beer = 2,000 COP
Simple meal in a local restaurant = 6,000 COP
Meal in an international restaurant = 15,000-20,000 COP

Can I drink the water in Colombia?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Colombia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Colombia?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist shopping areas and large hotels, but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors, in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option in Colombia.

What is ATM access like in Colombia?

ATMS are common in large cities like Bogota and Medellin, and are found in and near shopping centres, tourist areas and hotels. ATMs are less common in rural areas and smaller towns, so you're advised to prepare for this by having enough cash before travelling out of the city.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Colombia?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Colombia?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Jan 6 Epiphany
Mar 25 St Joseph’s Day
Mar 28 Maundy Thursday
Nar 29 Good Friday
May 1 Labour Day
May 9 Ascension
May 30 Corpus Christi
Jun 10 Sagrado Corazon
Jul 1 St Peter & St Paul
Jul 20 Independence Day
Aug 7 Battle of Boyaca
Aug 15 Assumption
Oct 12 Columbus Day
Nov 1 All Saints’ Day
Nov 11 Independence of Cartagena City
Dec 8 Immaculate Conception
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. Some of these holidays are celebrated regionally only. Where a holiday falls on the weekend, the following Monday is granted as a public holiday.

For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Colombia/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • COLOMBIA:
    Australia: Not required
    Belgium: Not required
    Canada: Not required
    Germany: Not required
    Ireland: Not required
    Netherlands: Not required
    New Zealand: Not required
    South Africa: Not required
    Switzerland: Not required
    United Kingdom: Not required
    United States: Not required

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Colombia at a glance

  • 23
  • Bogota (population 7.2 million)
  • 44.7 million
  • Spanish
  • COP
  • (GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)
  • +57

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