Navigate
Colombia with confidence using these essential travel tips and
etiquette insights. Learn the key do’s and don’ts to experience
Colombia respectfully, safely, and like a savvy traveller.
• Greet people warmly. A handshake or cheek kiss is common; Colombians value friendliness and approachability.
• Use formal greetings. Saying “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” when entering shops or restaurants shows respect.
• Dress neatly in cities. Appearance reflects confidence and courtesy, especially in Bogotá and Medellín.
• Carry small change. Useful for taxis, buses and markets where large notes are hard to break.
• Learn basic Spanish phrases. Any effort to speak the language is warmly appreciated.
• Ask permission before taking photos. Especially of people or Indigenous communities.
• Try local foods. Arepas, ajiaco and empanadas are important cultural touchpoints.
• Negotiate politely in markets. Bargaining is normal, but friendliness matters more than price.
• Respect personal space and public calm. Avoid loud behaviour; politeness is valued.
• Tip 10–15% in restaurants. Only if servicio incluido is not already listed on the bill.
• Don’t raise sensitive topics. Politics, drugs and armed conflict are best avoided.
• Don’t assume Colombia is unsafe everywhere. Many areas are very safe, but awareness is still important.
• Don’t flash valuables. Keep phones, jewellery and cameras discreet in busy places.
• Don’t take street taxis at night. Use ride apps such as InDriver or Uber instead.
• Don’t expect strict punctuality. Social and travel timings are often relaxed.
• Don’t litter or smoke in public spaces. Clean streets and plazas are a point of pride.
• Don’t wear beachwear in cities. Shorts and flip-flops are best kept for coastal areas.
• Don’t ignore altitude in Bogotá. Take it easy on your first day to acclimatise.
• Don’t enter protected or Indigenous areas alone. Licensed local guides are required.
• Don’t refuse an offer of coffee. A tinto is a common and friendly gesture of hospitality.
• Family comes first. Social gatherings often include several generations.
• Religion plays an important role. Faith-based festivals and holidays are widely observed.
• Music and dance are central. Salsa, cumbia and vallenato shape celebrations and nightlife.
• Communication is direct but kind. Eye contact shows sincerity and engagement.
• Gifts are appreciated. Small items from your home country are thoughtful gestures.
• Relationships matter in business. Trust and rapport come before negotiations.
• Weekend getaways are popular. Many locals travel to cooler or rural towns.
• National pride is strong. Colombians are proud of their country’s transformation.
• Avoid stereotypes. Each region has its own identity and culture.
• Observe before joining festivals. Participation is welcomed when done respectfully.
• Carry a passport copy. Keep the original secured in your hotel safe.
• Use ATMs inside banks or malls. These are generally safer than street machines.
• Download offline maps. Useful in rural areas with limited signal.
• Book domestic flights early. Prices usually rise close to departure.
• Avoid long-distance night travel. Roads can be winding and poorly lit.
• Drink bottled or boiled water. Especially outside major cities.
• Use sunscreen generously. The equatorial sun is strong even on cloudy days.
• Pack layers. Temperatures vary dramatically with altitude.
• Carry insect repellent. Essential in jungle, Amazonian and coastal regions.
• Register with your embassy. Sensible for longer or remote travel.
• Embrace la buena onda. Good vibes and openness define Colombian hospitality.
• Visit small coffee fincas near Salento. More personal than large plantations.
• Explore Comuna 13 with local guides. Their stories give powerful context and insight.
• Arrive early at Tayrona National Park. Daily visitor numbers are limited.
• Join Bogotá’s Ciclovía. Roads close to cars on Sundays for cyclists and walkers.
• Ride Medellín’s Metrocable. Panoramic views and easy access to hillside barrios.
• Enjoy Cartagena’s street food. Try arepa de huevo and fresh tropical juices.
• Visit Barichara. A beautifully preserved colonial town known for crafts and calm streets.
• Buy a local SIM. Claro usually offers the widest national coverage.
• Slow your itinerary. Distances and traffic are deceptive — Colombia rewards patience.
• Colombia is generally safe. Stay alert in busy tourist areas and transport hubs.
• Avoid isolated ATMs and dark streets at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas.
• Expect police checkpoints. Carry ID copies and remain calm and respectful.
• Drug laws are strict. Possession of even small amounts is illegal.
• Respect park rules and authorities. Especially in protected areas.
• Watch for fake police scams. Never hand over money or cards on the street.
• Avoid demonstrations. Situations can change quickly.
• Carry travel insurance. Especially for trekking or adventure activities.
• Use registered taxis or ride apps. In all major cities.
• Know emergency numbers. Police 123 | Ambulance 132 | Fire 119.
• Spanish is widely spoken. Learning simple phrases greatly improves interactions.
• Always greet first. A polite “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” is expected.
• Body language is warm. Handshakes and light touches are common among friends.
• Humour and optimism are valued. A smile opens conversations easily.
• Listen attentively. Interrupting or loud speech can seem rude.
• Use WhatsApp. The main tool for communication and bookings.
• Use titles in formal settings. Señor or Señora with surnames shows respect.
• Avoid crude language or jokes. Especially with new acquaintances.
• Show curiosity. Locals enjoy sharing stories about their region.
• Be patient and friendly. Conversations may take time but usually end warmly.