Perú
A land where you'll be greeted with open arms and treated to an unforgettable array of sounds and sights. Explore stunning coastlines, descend into the heart of the Amazon, sip delicious coffee, immerse yourself in the history and culture of a unique and fascinating country, and more! For many years, conflict, civil war, and drugs prevented tourists from visiting Colombia. With its Caribbean coast, rainforest, endangered animals, unique ecosystems, and the Andes, the country is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. Find out why it's worth your time to add this South American nation to your list of destinations.
Determining the best time to visit Colombia depends on several factors, including the regions you plan to explore and your preferred activities. Colombia's diverse geography results in various climates, from tropical rainforests to high-altitude mountain ranges.
The peak tourist season in Colombia typically runs from December to March, coinciding with the dry season and the austral summer months. During this time, popular destinations such as Cartagena, Medellin, and the Coffee Triangle experience warm temperatures and sunny skies, making it ideal for beach-going, hiking, and sightseeing.
For those seeking to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather, the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November offer excellent alternatives. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and attractions are less crowded, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and exploring colonial towns.
Colombia offers many activities for travelers, from exploring ancient ruins and colonial cities to trekking through pristine rainforests and relaxing on tropical beaches. In Bogota, visitors can take a walking tour of the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, visit the iconic Monserrate Sanctuary for panoramic views of the city, and sample local cuisine at the bustling Paloquemao Market.
Colombia's climate varies significantly from region to region, with the country experiencing diverse ecosystems and weather patterns. In general, Colombia has two main seasons: a wet season (or rainy season) and a dry season. The wet season typically occurs from April to November, while the dry season runs from December to March. Check the following chart for more information.
El Dorado International Airport (BOG)—Bogota: Located in the capital city of Bogota, El Dorado International Airport is Colombia's largest and busiest airport. It serves as the main gateway to the country for domestic and international travelers.
Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG) - Cartagena: Situated on the Caribbean coast, Rafael Nuñez International Airport serves the historic city of Cartagena and offers flights to destinations across Colombia and the region.
Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (MDE)—Medellin: Located in Rionegro, Jose Maria Córdova International Airport is the main airport serving the Medellin metropolitan area. It offers domestic and international flights to destinations in South America, North America, and Europe.
Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) - Cali: Serving the city of Cali and the surrounding region, Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport offers domestic and international flights to destinations such as Bogota, Medellin, Miami, and Madrid.
Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ) - Barranquilla: Located on the Caribbean coast, Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport serves the city of Barranquilla and offers domestic and international flights to destinations in Colombia and the region.
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena - Cartagena: Housed in a former convent dating back to the 17th century, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and a spa, set within the historic walled city of Cartagena.
Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota - Bogota: Located in the exclusive Zona G neighborhood of Bogota, Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and personalized service, blending colonial charm with modern luxury.
Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa - Cartagena: Situated within the walls of Cartagena's historic old town, Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa offers boutique accommodations, a rooftop pool, and panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Hotel Estelar Parque de la 93 - Bogota: Located in the trendy Parque de la 93 neighborhood of Bogota, Hotel Estelar Parque de la 93 offers contemporary rooms, a rooftop terrace, and easy access to restaurants, bars, and shops.
Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia - Bogota: Set in the heart of Bogota's financial district, Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia offers stylish accommodations, gourmet dining, and a spa, providing a luxurious retreat for business and leisure travelers alike.
JW Marriott Hotel Bogota - Bogota: Situated in the upscale neighborhood of Salitre, JW Marriott Hotel Bogota offers spacious rooms, upscale dining options, and a fitness center just minutes away from El Dorado International Airport and the city's business district.
Hotel Boutique Casa San Agustin—Cartagena: Nestled within the historic old town of Cartagena, Hotel Boutique Casa San Agustin offers colonial-style accommodations, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine. It provides an intimate and luxurious retreat for discerning travelers.
Grand Hyatt Bogota - Bogota: Located in the exclusive Ciudad Empresarial Sarmiento Angulo neighborhood, Grand Hyatt Bogota offers modern rooms, upscale dining options, and a spa, catering to business and leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Hotel Movich Cartagena de Indias—Cartagena: Set within a restored colonial mansion in the heart of Cartagena's old town, Hotel Movich Cartagena de Indias offers elegant accommodations, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant serving Colombian and international cuisine. It provides a tranquil oasis amidst the city's bustling streets.
Hilton Cartagena—Cartagena: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Hilton Cartagena offers comfortable rooms, a beachfront pool, and a range of amenities, including a fitness center, tennis courts, and a spa. It is an ideal choice for beach lovers and families.
Andres Carne de Res - Chia: Located just outside Bogota in the town of Chia, Andres Carne de Res is a legendary restaurant and entertainment venue known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic decor, and delicious Colombian cuisine, including grilled meats, empanadas, and arepas.
Leo Cocina y Cava—Bogota: Led by renowned Colombian chef Leonor Espinosa, Leo Cocina y Cava offers innovative Colombian cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. It has earned a place among Latin America's best restaurants.
Criterion—Bogota: Set within a restored colonial mansion in Bogota's historic La Candelaria neighborhood, Criterion offers fine dining in an elegant setting. The menu features French-inspired dishes made with Colombian ingredients, paired with an extensive wine list.
El Cielo—Medellin: Led by chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, El Cielo is a gastronomic experience like no other. It offers a multi-sensory journey through Colombian cuisine, with dishes inspired by the country's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Restaurante Donde Javier—Cartagena: Located in Cartagena's historic old town, Restaurante Donde Javier offers traditional Colombian cuisine in a charming courtyard setting. Dishes such as ceviche, seafood stew, and grilled meats are served with a side of live music and warm hospitality.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, carrying cash for transactions in smaller towns and rural areas is advisable. The local currency is the Colombian peso (COP), and ATMs are readily available in urban centers for cash withdrawal. However, it's essential to be cautious of counterfeit bills and to exchange currency at reputable establishments to avoid scams. Additionally, some businesses may offer discounts for cash payments, so it's worth keeping some pesos on hand. For added convenience, consider using a travel card to load multiple currencies and withdraw cash without foreign transaction fees.
Carnaval de Barranquilla: Held in February in the coastal city of Barranquilla, Carnaval de Barranquilla is one of Colombia's largest and most colorful festivals, featuring parades, music, dance, and elaborate costumes, celebrating the region's Afro-Colombian culture and traditions.
Feria de las Flores: Held in August in Medellin, Feria de las Flores is a week-long celebration of Colombia's flower-growing heritage. Events include flower parades, concerts, and cultural performances, culminating in the Desfile de Silleteros, where farmers carry elaborate floral arrangements on their backs through the city's streets.
Festival de Vallenato: Held in April in the city of Valledupar, the Festival de Vallenato celebrates Colombia's traditional folk music. It features competitions, concerts, and dance performances honoring the accordion, drum, and guacharaca, the three instruments that define vallenato music.
Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro de Bogota: Held every two years in April, the Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro de Bogota is one of the largest theater festivals in the world. It features performances by international and local theater companies, street performances, and workshops, showcasing the diversity of Latin American theater.
Feria de Cali: Held in December in the city of Cali, Feria de Cali is a week-long celebration of salsa music and dance, with concerts, dance competitions, and street parties held throughout the city, attracting salsa enthusiasts from around the world.
Before traveling to Colombia, check visa requirements and vaccination recommendations, particularly for yellow fever, if visiting certain regions, is essential. Pack appropriate clothing for the climate and activities you plan to undertake, whether hiking in the mountains, exploring the rainforest, or relaxing on the beach. Be aware of currency exchange rates and consider bringing a mix of cash and cards for convenience. Learning some basic Spanish phrases is also advisable, as English may only be widely spoken in some remote areas. Lastly, embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Colombian people and prepare for a journey filled with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable experiences in this diverse and captivating country.
Colombia is blessed with abundant natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and discovery. In the coffee-growing region of the Coffee Triangle, visitors can tour coffee plantations, hike through lush forests, and sample some of the world's finest coffee beans.
In the Amazon rainforest, travelers can take guided tours to spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds, explore indigenous villages, and learn about the region's biodiversity and conservation efforts.
We're flexible! Postpone your tour with zero cost up to 10 days prior to departure.
