How to travel Colombia
Traveling in Colombia is an exciting adventure, with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities. Here’s a guide on how to travel around the country effectively:
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Colombia’s climate varies by region, but the best time to visit is generally during the dry seasons from December to March and July to August.
Getting There
Flights
Major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena are well-connected by international flights. Consider flying into Bogotá, as it’s a central hub for domestic travel. I would recommend to fly to Cartagena and travel your way South in the country.Buses
Colombia has an extensive bus network that connects cities and towns. While long-distance travel can take time, it’s often a budget-friendly option.
Transportation options
Domestic Flights
For longer distances, domestic airlines (like Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air) offer quick flights between major cities and popular tourist destinations.Buses
Companies like Expreso Bolivariano, Flota La Macarena, and Coomotor offer comfortable long-distance bus services. Buses often have reclining seats and sometimes include meals. Book your bus easily through www.busbud.comTaxis and Ride-Sharing
In cities, taxis are widely available, and services like Uber and Didi operate in major urban areas. Always specify your destination and ask for the price before getting into the car. This way, you can negotiate the fare upfront to avoid any surprises later.Public Transport
Cities like Bogotá have a reliable public transport system, including buses and a TransMilenio system, which is a bus rapid transit network.
Popular Destinations
Medellín
Famous for its transformation and innovation, visit Comuna 13 for its street art and take a cable car to see the city from above.
Cartagena
Known for its colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches. Don’t miss the old town and the nearby islands.
Santa Marta and Tayrona National Park
A gateway to beautiful beaches and hiking trails. Enjoy the local culture in Santa Marta.
Salento
Explore the coffee region where you can tour coffee plantations and enjoy stunning landscapes.
Travel Tips
Safety
Colombia is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashy displays of wealth. Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night.Language
While Spanish is the official language, in tourist areas, you can find English speakers. Learning basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience.Currency
The currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). ATMs are widely available in cities, but carry some cash for smaller towns or markets.
When you need cash, look for Banco Pichincha. This bank allows you to withdraw larger amounts without incurring additional fees, helping you save money.Health and Safety
Ensure you have travel insurance. Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food until you know your stomach can handle it.Sim Card
If you're looking to purchase a local SIM card, consider getting one from Claro. It's affordable and offers the best coverage throughout the country. To ensure a smooth experience, avoid buying SIM cards from street vendors; instead, visit a official phone store for your purchase.
Cultural considerations
Local Customs
Colombians are friendly and welcoming. A simple greeting in Spanish goes a long way.
Packing Tips
Clothing
Pack lightweight clothing for the warm coastal areas, but also bring layers for cooler mountainous regions. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for hiking and exploring.
By planning ahead and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that Colombia has to offer!
For a two week travel in Colombia, arriving in Bogotá, I would recommend following this schedule.
Day 1 Arriving in Bogotá
Day 2 (Night) bus to Salento (9 hours)
Day 3 Salento
Day 4 Bus to Medellín (4 hours)
Day 5 Medellín
Day 6 Medellín
Day 7 Flight to Cartagena (1 hour)
Day 8 Cartagena
Day 9 Cartagena
Day 10 Bus to Santa Marta (4 hours)
Day 11 Santa Marta, Tayrona park, Costeño beach
Day 12 Santa Marta, Tayrona park, Costeño beach
Day 13 Santa Marta, Tayrona park, Costeño beach
Day 14 Flight to Bogotá (1 hour)
If you have three weeks, this is a realistic schedule.
Day 1 Arriving in Bogotá
Day 2 Bogota
Day 3 Salento
Day 4 Salento
Day 5 (Night) Bus to Neiva (8 hours)
Day 6 Neiva
Day 7 (Night) bus to Cali (9 hours)
Day 8 Cali
Day 9 (Night) bus to Medellín (9 hours)
Day 10 Medellín
Day 11 Medellín
Day 12 Medellín
Day 13 Flight to Cartagena (1 hour)
Day 14 Cartagena
Day 15 Cartagena
Day 16 Islas del Rosario
Day 17 Islas del Rosario
Day 18 Santa Marta, Tayrona park, Costeño beach
Day 19 Santa Marta, Tayrona park, Costeño beach
Day 20 Santa Marta, Tayrona park, Costeño beach
Day 21 Flight back to Bogotá