Travel Information
All you need to know before getting to Colombia
Visa and Entry Requirements
To enter Colombia, visitors must meet specific visa and entry requirements based on their nationality, purpose of visit, and intended duration of stay. Here’s an overview of the visa and entry requirements for travelers to Colombia.
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens from many countries can enter Colombia without a visa for short stays, typically for tourism, business, or transit. These countries include the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, Japan, and many Latin American countries.
Visitors from these countries can stay for up to 90 days (which can often be extended once by another 90 days).
Check if your country is on the list of visa-exempt nations via the Colombian Embassy or Consulate. - Visa Required:
Nationals of some countries, including India, China, Cuba, and many African nations, need a visa to enter Colombia, even for short stays.
A visa must be obtained before traveling through a Colombian embassy or consulate.
Entry Requirements for All Travelers
Regardless of whether a visa is required or not, travelers must meet these entry conditions:
- Valid Passport
- Return or Onward Ticket
- Proof of Accommodation
- Proof of Financial Means
- Yellow Fever Vaccination
- Travelers coming from or transiting through countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission must present proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Climate and weather
Colombia offers diverse climates due to its varied geography, ranging from tropical beaches to cool mountains. Here’s a breakdown by region:
Hot and tropical year-round, with dry seasons from December to April—perfect for beach lovers.
Home to cities like Bogotá and Medellín, this region enjoys a spring-like climate year-round. Bogotá is cooler due to its altitude, while Medellín is known as the “City of Eternal Spring.”
Hot and humid, with frequent rain throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the drier months, June to September.
One of the rainiest areas in the world, with high humidity and temperatures. Visit between July and October for whale-watching.
Tips on local customsand etiquette
Greetings
Colombians are warm and friendly. A handshake is common in formal settings, while close friends greet with a cheek kiss or hug.
Punctuality
Social events are flexible with time, but for business, punctuality is important.
Dining
Wait for everyone to be served before eating, and say "Buen provecho." Tipping around 10% is standard.
Dress
Colombians value neat appearance; smart casual is the norm, especially in cities.
Conversation
Family and tradition are important, and Colombians may stand close while talking.
Personal Space & Gestures
Colombians are expressive and may stand closer during conversations. Avoid using the "OK" hand gesture, as it can be considered rude. A thumbs-up is a more positive sign.