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A vibrant country of diverse landscapes, Colombia, invites travellers to uncover its hidden treasures. Stroll through the colourful streets of Cartagena, where colonial architecture and a lively atmosphere captivate visitors. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Coffee Cultural Landscape and learn about the fascinating process of coffee production. Trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), an ancient archaeological site hidden deep in the jungle, and feel the mystical energy that surrounds this sacred place. Colombia's natural wonders, including Tayrona National Park and Cocora Valley, offer breathtaking landscapes for hiking and nature lovers. With its warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage, Colombia promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Get swept away by the rhythm of salsa in Cali, the salsa capital of the world, or immerse yourself in the lively Carnival celebrations of Barranquilla. Delight in the flavours of Colombian cuisine, from hearty bandeja paisa to exotic fruits from the Amazon region. Explore bustling markets and admire the indigenous handicrafts and traditional arts. Colombia's natural beauty, combined with its vibrant culture, creates a unique and enriching journey. Embark on an adventure to this captivating country and uncover the magic of Colombia for yourself.
Cartagena needs to be number one on your Colombia bucket list. From ocean views to vibrant neighbourhoods, this is the kind of mesmerising place you’ll fall in love with at first sight. Stroll through the picturesque streets, dive into the salsa nightlife, or set sail beyond its shores. Cartagena is the ultimate city break.
Islas del Rosario is Colombia’s answer to paradise. “Heavenly” is the only way to describe the feeling you get when island-hopping along the Caribbean coast, with your new favourite beach right around the corner. Soak in the golden rays and feel the sand between your toes, before dipping into crystal-clear waters warmed by the sunlight.
Some views speak for themselves! In Cocora Valley, towering wax palm trees rise above rolling hills of jade green. Escape into this unique cloud forest for one of the most scenic hikes of your life, go horseback riding across the nature trails, or sit back, relax and let the landscapes wash over you.
Medellín is one of those places that you need to experience for yourself. Like a phoenix risen from the ashes, this beautiful city has transformed into one of Colombia’s most popular travel destinations in just a few decades. Nestled into the mountains, soak in the views as you explore the vibrant neighbourhoods by day. When evening falls, Medellín’s buzzing nightlife awaits.
Looking for a multi-day trek that takes you deep into the jungle? Colombia’s “La Ciudad Perdida” (“The Lost City”) is ready to be explored. Soak in the most stunning views of steep hilltops and emerald stone terraces, as mist rises over the horizon. Each step takes you closer to the epic history of centuries ago.
Colombia has a huge variety of food because it has such a huge variety of climates. From the warming stews of the Andes to the crispy fish and barbecues of the Caribbean coast, you’re sure to find plenty of delicious offerings wherever you are in the country.
Bandeja paisa is a big plate of red beans cooked with pork, chorizo, black pudding and avocado with Hogao sauce drizzled over white rice. Ajiaco soup is also a favourite, made up of chicken, potatoes and herbs. On the coast, you’ll find all manner of crispy fried fish served with rice and vegetables along with various stews, risottos and barbecued meats. Yum.
The climate in Colombia is very warm and tropical. The country is close to the equator so there is little variation in the temperature. Temperature changes are often dependent on altitude. Mountainous regions can be very cold and almost freezing at night depending on how high you are. Luckily, 80% of the country is less than 1,000m above sea level so you can expect characteristically warm and sunny weather. The rainy season lasts from May to November.
Visas may be required in order to enter or transit through certain countries depending on your passport nationality, your reason for travel and how long you intend to stay.
Visa, passport and entry rules are subject to change and you should check the most up-to-date information from the relevant embassy or visa specialist.
To make things easier we have teamed up with The Travel Visa Company who are one of the UK’s leading travel visa specialists. You can use their website, alongside embassy websites, to find out the specific entry requirements for the countries you intend to travel to.
For a fee, their dedicated team of experts can also apply for visas on your behalf, taking away the hassle and streamlining the process for you if you wish. For more details on the services they provide please click here – The Travel Visa Company
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Colombia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Colombia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Colombian Embassy in the UK (for English choose ‘Ingles’ from the drop down menu).
To enter Colombia, your passport must be valid on entry. However, Colombian immigration authorities recommend your passport has an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
If you’re a British-Colombian dual national, you must enter and leave Colombia using your Colombian passport and Colombian identification card (Cedula).
You can visit Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa for business or tourism, at the discretion of the Colombian immigration officer on arrival.
You must be able to show an onward or return ticket valid within the 90-day period.
Check the latest entry requirements and how to apply for a visa with the Colombian Consulate General in London before you travel.
If you have a Colombian visa with more than 90 days of validity, you must register the visa at a Migración Colombia office (in Spanish) or register the visa online (in Spanish) within 15 days of arrival in Colombia. If you do not register, you may get a fine.
You may be able to extend your stay once you are in Colombia by up to 120 days by applying at the immigration office Migración Colombia (in Spanish). As a visitor, you cannot remain in Colombia for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
If you overstay your visa, you could get a fine, or be deported at your own cost.
Colombian authorities advise that you can speed up your entry to the country by completing the ‘Check-Mig’ form on Migración Colombia, although this is not mandatory. You can complete the form between 72 hours and one hour before you travel to Colombia. You will receive a confirmation email that you will need to show to immigration officials when you arrive.
Make sure you get your passport stamped.
If you enter Colombia by land, sea or river, make sure the immigration authorities stamp your passport. If it is not stamped, you could get a fine when you leave. If the immigration office on the border is closed, go to the nearest office of Migración Colombia (in Spanish).
Children aged 17 and under who have resident status in Colombia and who are travelling on a British passport need a notarised letter of permission from any non-accompanying parents or parent (in Spanish). The letter must be authenticated by a notary or by a Colombian consulate. You can get more information from Migración Colombia (in Spanish) or by contacting the Colombian Consulate in the UK (in Spanish).
If you’re travelling to the islands of San Andres, Providencia or Santa Catalina, you must buy a tourist card from the boarding gate, on the day of the flight. You do not need one if you’re staying less than 24 hours.
Departure tax is usually included in the price of the airline ticket, but check with your airline.
To enter Colombia, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from certain countries with a transmission risk. You may also be asked to show it if you are travelling to areas in Colombia which are considered high risk. Carry your vaccination certificate at all times.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Colombia guide.
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Colombia (in Spanish). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
You can bring up to 10,000 US dollars-worth of any currency into Colombia. You must declare anything above this amount with the National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) (in Spanish).
Do not get involved with illegal drugs of any kind. Drug trafficking detection methods are very sophisticated in Colombia and anyone attempting to traffic drugs should expect to be arrested. Conviction leads to very severe penalties.
You should carry a photocopy of your passport and visa with you at all times for identification.
Photographing of military or strategic government sites is not allowed.
You should visit your doctor at least 6-8 weeks before you travel for up to date vaccination information. Make sure you have good travel health insurance to cover the cost of medical treatment abroad. If you need emergency medical assistance you should dial 123.
Cases of Zika virus, Chikunyuga virus, Malaria and Dengue fever have been confirmed in Colombia. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
We do not recommend hiring motorbikes, scooters, ATV vehicles, quad bikes or other types of motorised vehicles whilst abroad. Safety and quality of vehicles vary considerably and the traffic conditions can be much more dangerous than what UK travellers are used to. Should you wish to go against this advice, you should ensure you are hiring from a reputable company and that your travel insurance covers you for such activities.
There have been massive improvements in safety and security in Colombia over recent years. However, the crime rate still remains high. Certain areas of Colombia are particularly dangerous and you are not advised to travel to these locations by the UK foreign office. Check the foreign office website for the latest safety recommendations.
Be vigilant in public places and take care on city streets, especially after dark. Do not carry large amounts of money or have valuables on show. Do not walk alone and avoid using your mobile phone in the street. Remember possessions are just possessions and can be replaced. Do not put yourself at risk.
Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended and don’t accept anything from strangers. When you are out, have someone in your group watch your drinks if you need to leave for any reason. Only use pre-booked taxis and be wary if you are approached by a stranger.
There is a threat of terrorism in Colombia, particularly from revolutionary groups. The security situation can change very quickly and you should pay close attention to warnings issued by the Colombian authorities and monitor up to date travel advice.
Earthquakes occur regularly in Colombia and there are risks of floods and landslides after heavy rains. In the event of a natural disaster, you should monitor media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
