Best time to visit

The best time to visit Colombia largely depends on the region you plan to explore, as the country has diverse climates due to its varied geography. Andean Region (Bogotá, Medellín, Cali): The Andean region can be visited year-round, with the best weather from December to March, and July to August. Medellín, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," has pleasant weather throughout the year. Caribbean Coast (Cartagena, Santa Marta): The best time to visit the Caribbean coast is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities. Amazon Rainforest: The Amazon can be visited year-round, but the drier months from July to November are more comfortable for wildlife spotting and jungle excursions. Pacific Coast: The Pacific coast is rainy for most of the year, but the best time to visit is from July to October, coinciding with the whale-watching season. Overall, Colombia offers a year-round destination with something for every type of traveler, but the dry seasons generally provide the most favorable conditions for exploring the country's rich cultural and natural attractions.

What to expect

Language: The official language of Colombia is Spanish, which is spoken by nearly the entire population. In addition, there are over 60 indigenous languages spoken in various regions, such as Wayuu, Embera, and Kogi.

Currency: The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP).

Safety: Colombia has made significant strides in improving safety over the past decade, but travelers should still exercise caution. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas and on public transportation. It’s advisable to avoid displaying valuables, be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. In rural regions, it's important to stay informed about local conditions and follow travel advisories, as some areas may still experience security issues related to drug trafficking and armed groups.

Cuisine: Colombian cuisine is diverse, reflecting the country's varied geography and cultural heritage. Some popular dishes include: Arepas: Cornmeal cakes that are grilled, baked, or fried, and can be stuffed with cheese, meats, or other fillings. Bandeja Paisa: A hearty platter from the Antioquia region, featuring beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón (pork cracklings), fried egg, plantain, avocado, and arepa. Ajiaco: A traditional soup from Bogotá made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and a local herb called guasca, often served with capers and cream. Sancocho: A thick soup made with meat (chicken, beef, or fish), plantains, potatoes, yucca, and corn, typically enjoyed with rice and avocado. Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, potatoes, cheese, or other ingredients, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Fresh Tropical Fruits: Colombia offers a wide variety of fresh fruits such as mango, papaya, guava, and lulo, often enjoyed as juices or desserts.