Travel Facts

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel due to crime and terrorism. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html

Passport/Visa Requirements

US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 89 days.

US Embassy/Consulate

[57] (1) 275-2000; US Embassy in Bogota, Carrera 45 No. 24B-27 Bogotá, D.C. Colombia; https://co.usembassy.gov/; ACSBogota@state.gov

LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html

Telephone Code

57

Local Emergency Phone

119

Vaccinations

An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.

http://www.who.int/

Climate

Tropical along coast and eastern plains; cooler in highlands

Currency (Code)

Pesos (COP)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

110 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B

Major Languages

Spanish

Major Religions

Roman Catholic 79%, Protestant 14%

Time Difference

UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Potable Water

Opt for bottled water

International Driving Permit

Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Colombia, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA

Road Driving Side

Right

Tourist Destinations

Salt Cathedral; Tayrona National Park; Monserrate; Santuario de Las Lajas; Los Nevados National Park; Cartagena; Cano Cristales; Qhapaq Nan/Andean Road System; San Agustin Archaeological Park; National Archeological Park of Tierradentro

Major Sports

Soccer, boxing, shooting sports, taekwondo, wrestling, tejo (involves throwing a disc at a small target)

Cultural Practices

Shake hands when you meet someone for the first time. Kissing on the cheek is very informal, and it's only acceptable when you already know the person. Cover your mouth when yawning. It is considered rude to speak with your hands in your pockets.

Tipping Guidelines

A 10% tip is common at restaurants. Taxi drivers are rarely tipped. An appropriate tip for a porter/bellboy is about $1 (USD) per bag. It is also good tipping etiquette to leave a small gratuity of about $1-2 (USD) per day for housekeeping.

Souvenirs

Crocheted mochila bags, handwoven and mola fabric items, leather goods, silver/gold filigree and precious stone jewelry, ceramics, carved wooden statues, musical instruments, Tagua plant carved items, coconut-sourced goods, coffee

Traditional Cuisine

Ajiaco — a soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, and guasca (an herb); typically garnished with capers, avocado slices, corn on the cob, or cream

Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency? 
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444


Page last updated: Wednesday, September 13, 2023