Colombia
TRAVELLING TO COLOMBIA
Long overlooked or misunderstood, Colombia is now emerging as a must-visit destination in Latin America. Traveling in Colombia means immersing yourself in a whirlwind of colors, flavors, and unforgettable encounters.
South America has always held a deep fascination for me. Even before setting foot in Colombia, I knew I would love it—I just didn’t realize how much.
What I discovered exceeded all my expectations: a land of extraordinary richness, where the energy of the cities contrasts with the serenity of vast landscapes. From the rolling mountains of the Coffee Triangle to the idyllic beaches of Providencia island and the wild shores of the Chocó region, Colombia unfolds in breathtaking diversity. Dense rainforests, sun-scorched deserts, fertile valleys, and Caribbean coastlines—landscapes shift from one region to the next, but one thing remains constant: a proud, warm, and forward-looking people.
Bogota
Colombian Pesos (COP)
52.09 millions
Spanish
1.142 million km²
110V - Type A & B
ALL COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDES
Best time to visit Colombia
Land of “eternal spring,” Colombia can be visited year-round. Its vast territory and diverse landscapes mean that weather conditions can vary significantly from one region to another. Temperatures are generally pleasant, and even during the rainy season, showers are often brief. However, some periods are more favorable depending on the region and planned activities.
🟢 December to March: This is the dry season, ideal for exploring places like the Caribbean coast, Tayrona Park, or the Coffee Region. During this time, the sun is shining, roads are more accessible, and conditions are perfect for hiking or enjoying the beaches.
🟡 July to August: Another relatively dry period, especially in the Andes and along the Caribbean coast. It’s also whale-watching season on the Pacific coast. However, this is peak tourist season, which means larger crowds and higher prices.
🔵 April to June & September to November: These months mark the rainy season in several regions. While showers can be short-lived, they can also complicate activities like hiking. On the upside, nature is at its best, with lush forests and vibrant green landscapes. It’s also a quieter time, perfect for avoiding crowds and experiencing a more authentic Colombia.
Useful links for your trip to Colombia
on 12Go
with Get Your Guide
Is Colombia safe to travel?
During our trip to Colombia, we never felt unsafe. As with anywhere else, it’s just a matter of taking a few basic precautions and using common sense, especially in urban areas. Keep an eye on your belongings, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and try not to use your phone too conspicuously.
We were more cautious in Medellín, and the only incident we witnessed was a snatch-and-grab theft in Cartagena, outside the historic center. However, in rural areas, we never felt the slightest insecurity. On the contrary—these regions felt much more peaceful, and the hospitality we experienced was exceptionally warm.
When is the best time to travel to Colombia?
Often considered as the land of “eternal spring,” Colombia can be visited year-round. Its vast territory and diverse landscapes mean that weather conditions vary significantly from one region to another. Temperatures remain generally pleasant, and even during the rainy season, showers are often brief. However, some periods are more favorable depending on the regions and activities you have planned.
🟢 December to March: This is the dry season, perfect for exploring destinations like the Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park, or the Coffee Region. During this time, sunny days are the norm, roads are easier to navigate, and conditions are ideal for hiking and beach trips.
🟡 July to August: Another relatively dry period, particularly in the Andes and along the Caribbean coast. It’s also whale season on the Pacific coast! However, this is high tourist season, meaning larger crowds and higher prices.
🔵 April to June & September to November: These months mark the rainy season in several regions. While showers can be short-lived, they might also make certain activities, like hiking, more challenging. On the upside, nature is at its peak, with lush green forests and breathtaking landscapes. This is also a quieter period, ideal for avoiding crowds and experiencing a more authentic Colombia.
Do I need to buy an all-inclusive tour to visit Colombia?
Absolutely not! You can definitely explore Colombia independently. There are several ways to get around:
- Rent a car for more freedom and flexibility.
- Take long-distance buses, which are well-developed throughout the country.
- Fly between regions to save time on longer journeys.
Is it dangerous to rent a car in Colombia?
I can only speak from my personal experience, but we rented a car to explore the Coffee Triangle, and everything went smoothly—aside from having a somewhat basic vehicle. Unlike some countries, like Mexico, where police corruption is often a concern, we didn’t encounter any issues in Colombia. During a routine checkpoint, the officers simply asked where we were heading before wishing us a good trip with a big smile.
That said, I wouldn’t recommend renting a car for your entire itinerary. Distances can be long, some roads are in poor condition, and the drives can be exhausting. For longer routes, long-distance buses or domestic flights are far more practical and budget-friendly options.
How much time should I plan for a trip to Colombia?
To truly enjoy your trip and explore Colombia without feeling rushed, two weeks is the recommended minimum. This will allow you to see the must-visit spots without constantly being on the move.
Three to four weeks is the ideal timeframe, giving you more flexibility to venture off the beaten path and explore less touristy regions. And of course, the more time you have, the better! Colombia is a vast and incredibly diverse country—one where you could easily travel for a year without ever getting bored.
Is it a good idea to visit Colombia in August?
Even though I hate travelling in August, we had little other options in the summer 2024. I was a bit worried about the crowds, but to my surprise, aside from popular spots like Cartagena and certain areas of Tayrona, we often had places almost to ourselves.
Weather-wise, August turned out to be mostly sunny across the different regions we visited. We encountered very little rain, a few welcome clouds to soften the heat, and pleasant temperatures throughout our trip.
The main downside was higher prices, especially for accommodation. Some rates were much steeper than I expected. But if your budget allows, August remains an excellent time to explore Colombia—with great weather and a manageable number of tourists at most sites.
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