Colombia
From Caribbean white sand beaches through tropical rainforests to mountains topping out at 18,000 feet, Colombia’s landscape is as varied as its culture. Visit the tropical seaport of Cartagena, throbbing with salsa and nightlife, and the cultural capital of Bogota in the center of the country. Travel nearly 600 feet beneath the earth into the Zipaquirá Salt Mine Cathedral to see the beautifully-lit stations of the cross, carved by miners themselves. Tour the mansions, villages, and farms of the Coffee Triangle to discover what makes Colombian coffee, grown on the slopes of the Andes Mountains, so seductive and delicious.
Highlights
- Bogotá
Bogotá is the beating heart of Colombia, a vibrant capital nestled high in the Andes Mountains. Crowds fill the Botero Museum to view the rich art collection, especially the works of the famous Fernando Botero, who has 123 pieces showcased. Locals pack the lively Paloquemao Market, Bogotá's largest food market, to purchase the same fresh produce from many of the city's restaurants. Travelers from all over hop on a cable car or funicular to ascend the towering Monserrate Mountain, enjoying the breathtaking view of the city from over 10,000 ft. above sea level. From the minute you step foot in this fascinating city, you'll never want to leave.
- Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
Located 600 feet underground in a former salt mine in the small Andean town of Zipaquirá sits a Roman Catholic church: the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. This magnificent structure in the defunct mine was carved by miners beginning in the early 1950s, who also created numerous other elaborate carvings, including some representing the Passion of the Christ. A small altar and sanctuary were created in the salt mine to serve as a place of prayer for the workers, leading to the cathedral's creation. Now, this massive worship space is open to the public, complete with multiple tunnels and a basilica dome.
- Wax palms
Once endangered due to habitat loss, over-harvesting, and disease, Colombia's national tree, the wax palm, is now legally protected throughout the country. These towering, slender trees can be found in Cocora Valley and are known to grow up to 200 feet tall! At first sight, these characteristic trees resemble those in Dr. Seuss's The Lorax. Just like in The Lorax, these trees need serious conservation! When visiting Colombia, get the incredible chance to contribute to the preservation of the wax palm and plant your very own tree.
- Medellín
Located in a narrow valley cradled by mountains, Medellín, also referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring," is best known for its temperate weather and colorful flowers. Here, travelers learn about Medellín's silleteros, porters of the Colombian Andes. At one time, these silleteros carried goods, and even people, across challenging mountains with a silleta, a type of chair made to be held on the back. Today, vendors and farmers haul wooden containers packed with beautifully colorful flowers down from the small village of Santa Elena to sell in Medellín's squares and markets. This determination is reflected in the city's industry and public works projects, and it's no wonder Medellín has grown to be the second-largest city in Colombia.
- Cartagena
Bask in the sultry Caribbean climate of Cartagena, one of South America's oldest colonial cities. Founded in 1533, this ageless port city appears frozen in time. Discover Castillo de San Felipe, a fortress built by the Spanish to protect shipments of gold bound for Europe from plundering pirates. Enclosed within centuries-old colonial stone walls lies Cartagena's old town. Get lost in its labyrinth of cobblestone streets that open into lively plazas erupting with frivolity. Absorb the explosion of color awaiting around every turn. Blooming tropical flowers spill over the balconies above, and beautiful buildings adorned with vibrant warm hues line the streets. Rich in history and culture, Cartagena's timeless charm continues to impress the modern traveler.
Bogotá is the beating heart of Colombia, a vibrant capital nestled high in the Andes Mountains. Crowds fill the Botero Museum to view the rich art collection, especially the works of the famous Fernando Botero, who has 123 pieces showcased. Locals pack the lively Paloquemao Market, Bogotá's largest food market, to purchase the same fresh produce from many of the city's restaurants. Travelers from all over hop on a cable car or funicular to ascend the towering Monserrate Mountain, enjoying the breathtaking view of the city from over 10,000 ft. above sea level. From the minute you step foot in this fascinating city, you'll never want to leave. 
Located 600 feet underground in a former salt mine in the small Andean town of Zipaquirá sits a Roman Catholic church: the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. This magnificent structure in the defunct mine was carved by miners beginning in the early 1950s, who also created numerous other elaborate carvings, including some representing the Passion of the Christ. A small altar and sanctuary were created in the salt mine to serve as a place of prayer for the workers, leading to the cathedral's creation. Now, this massive worship space is open to the public, complete with multiple tunnels and a basilica dome. 
Once endangered due to habitat loss, over-harvesting, and disease, Colombia's national tree, the wax palm, is now legally protected throughout the country. These towering, slender trees can be found in Cocora Valley and are known to grow up to 200 feet tall! At first sight, these characteristic trees resemble those in Dr. Seuss's The Lorax. Just like in The Lorax, these trees need serious conservation! When visiting Colombia, get the incredible chance to contribute to the preservation of the wax palm and plant your very own tree. 
Located in a narrow valley cradled by mountains, Medellín, also referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring," is best known for its temperate weather and colorful flowers. Here, travelers learn about Medellín's silleteros, porters of the Colombian Andes. At one time, these silleteros carried goods, and even people, across challenging mountains with a silleta, a type of chair made to be held on the back. Today, vendors and farmers haul wooden containers packed with beautifully colorful flowers down from the small village of Santa Elena to sell in Medellín's squares and markets. This determination is reflected in the city's industry and public works projects, and it's no wonder Medellín has grown to be the second-largest city in Colombia. 
Bask in the sultry Caribbean climate of Cartagena, one of South America's oldest colonial cities. Founded in 1533, this ageless port city appears frozen in time. Discover Castillo de San Felipe, a fortress built by the Spanish to protect shipments of gold bound for Europe from plundering pirates. Enclosed within centuries-old colonial stone walls lies Cartagena's old town. Get lost in its labyrinth of cobblestone streets that open into lively plazas erupting with frivolity. Absorb the explosion of color awaiting around every turn. Blooming tropical flowers spill over the balconies above, and beautiful buildings adorned with vibrant warm hues line the streets. Rich in history and culture, Cartagena's timeless charm continues to impress the modern traveler. Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Colombia? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Bogotá |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Malaria Malaria is present in Colombia. Take precautions against getting mosquito bites. Speak with your doctor about taking a prescription medicine (before, during and after your trip) to prevent malaria. CDC Malaria guidance: Colombia Yellow Fever The CDC recommends Yellow Fever vaccine for all travelers who will visit Yellow Fever Endemic areas of Colombia. Ask your physician for more information. CDC Guidance by country: Colombia |
| Weather | The climate is tropical along the coast and eastern plains and cold in the highlands. Colombia is located on the equator so there is no change in seasonality. Cities along the Atlantic coast are hot and humid, while some cities in the Andes such as Bogota and the Coffee Triangle region have spring-like weather year round with cool temperatures at night. |
| Tipping | Add 10% to the bill in restaurants, except where a service charge has been included. |
| Money & Credit Cards | ATMs are widely available in Colombia. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Colombia is the #1 producer of emeralds in the world, and there are many places to buy certified emeralds that can be brought into the USA. Another common item tourists shop for in Colombia is the mochila, a traditional, hand-woven Colombian bag, normally worn over the shoulder that comes in three sizes. Handicrafts such as jewelry and leather products are commonly sold in markets and on street corners. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 110 volts. Plug A & B. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
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Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Colombia
- including closed packages
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