Colombia offers Caribbean old towns, green mountains, coffee farms and lively cities, usually at friendly prices. Check current government travel advice for your region before you go.
Quick facts
- Getting there: Bogota (BOG), Medellin (MDE) and Cartagena (CTG) all have international flights.
- Best months: December to March and July to August are the driest. Rain is possible all year in the mountains.
- Time needed: 8 to 12 days.
- Currency: Colombian peso (COP).
A simple first route
- Bogota (2 to 3 nights): museums, street art and food in the old centre.
- Medellin (3 nights): cable cars, parks and day trips to Guatape.
- Cartagena (3 nights): walled city, island boat trips and beaches.
Money-saving tips
- Domestic flights between cities are often cheaper than long bus rides when booked early.
- Choose the set lunch, called “menu del dia”, for a full meal at a low price.
- Use ride apps or hotel-arranged taxis rather than street hails at night.
- Cartagena is dearest in December and January. Visit in shoulder months to save.
- Get mobile data before you land so maps and rides work from the airport.
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.