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Colombia Snapshot
There is always a good time to visit Colombia, as the seasons vary throughout the country. While the climate generally remains constant throughout the year, the temperature can change depending on where you are. In the far north, the climate is usually tropical, warm and humid; while central Colombia can get quite cool - Bogota is known for its mild temperatures, particularly at night.
The wet season is roughly from March to May and September to November, although this varies around the country. December to March is the peak travel period due to the dry conditions and holidays and festivals that proliferate across the country. During this time, expect more sunshine, but also more people competing for space in the cities and tourist regions.
The wet season is roughly from March to May and September to November, although this varies around the country. December to March is the peak travel period due to the dry conditions and holidays and festivals that proliferate across the country. During this time, expect more sunshine, but also more people competing for space in the cities and tourist regions.
Eating and Drinking in Colombia
- Arepas: These popular thick corn tortillas can be found almost everywhere in Colombia. Baked or fried, with beef, cheese, pork, chicken or beans, they make the perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Bandeja Paisa: Originating from the Andean region of Colombia, this dish is a staple of most Colombian diets. Consisting of a plate of rice, beans, avocado, fried egg, chorizo and other meats, it’s a filling feast fit for a king!
- Ajiaco Bogotano: This hearty chicken stew is a Bogota specialty. Packed with succulent chicken meat, corn, potatoes and herbs, it’s a tasty and satisfying budget meal.
- Tropical Fruit: Colombia is known for having some of the best fresh produce in the world. Bananas and plantains are among the best, and you’ll be able to find street vendors selling them fresh, fried and grilled. Fruit shakes are also widely available and offer travellers a chance to sample some exotic fruits that they may not have tried before.
Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Colombia has rich culinary traditions, quality fresh produce and loads of cosmopolitan bars, cafes, food stands and restaurants to visit.
Shopping in Colombia
- Jewellery, Art & Handicrafts: Some of the best artisans in South America live in Colombia. Choose from handcrafted gold jewellery, bright textile bags and scarves, and vibrant contemporary art available in galleries, markets and boutiques all over the country.
- Fashion & Accessories: Colombia’s more cosmopolitan cities have enough fashion-forward boutiques and malls to keep most clothes-hounds happy. Medellin in particular is well known for being Colombia’s fashion capital, and is a true hotspot in the Latin American fashion world.
- Coffee Beans: As one of the world’s largest producers of coffee beans, Colombia is a great place to pick up top quality beans at lower prices than back at home. Buying straight from the coffee regions ensures quality and freshness.
Travellers might visit Colombia for the adrenalin sports, nature reserves and beaches, however retail therapy should also be included in that list, as Colombia’s shopping is surprisingly sensational.
It’s a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.
Accommodation
Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When travelling with us in Colombia you may find yourself staying in a:
When travelling with us in Colombia you may find yourself staying in a:
Hacienda
- Sleeping in a hammock while staying at a traditional hacienda is an authentic treat for travellers who are happy to forego a mattress for a few days in favour of a real life experience.
Transport
Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there. Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun!
Depending on which trip you're on while in Colombia, you may find yourself travelling by:
Depending on which trip you're on while in Colombia, you may find yourself travelling by:
Local Bus
- Rub shoulders with locals while travelling on a local bus – it’s a great way to mix with different crowds and a cheap way to get around.
Shortlist
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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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