The Basics
Country: Colombia
Where is it?: Colombia is in northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Ecuador and Panama.
Why do people go here?: Few traveler manage to visit Colombia. Home to one of the largest drug cartels and the headquarters of worldwide kidnapping, Colombia sadly doesn’t attract many tourists – rightfully so. That said, those intrepid souls who have managed to travel throughout the country, rant and rave that this country is amazing.
What are the main entry points?: Flying into Bogota is your best for entrance into the southern. Don’t attempt to overland from Panama or pretty much any other country around it.
Currency used: Peso
Country Code for Phones: 57
Area codes for Major Cities: Bogota 1
Religion: Roman Catholic 90%
Population: 44.9 million
Ethnic Breakdown: 58% Mestizo, 20% White, 14% Mulatto, 4% Black, 3% Zambo, 1% Amerindian
Government: Republic
Languages: Spanish
Travel Information
Major Cities: Bogota, Cali, Medellin
Attractions: Cartagena, Caribbean Coast
Accommodation: Columbia Hostels
Off-the-Beaten-Path: San Andres
Health Issues: Altitude sickness, Cholera, hepatitis, malaria, rabies, Tetanus, typhoid, yellow fever
Tips for Visiting
When to go: The best time to visit Colombia is from early December through March. This tends to be the time when hotels are at maximum capacity.
Common Phrases: Chao = Goodbye. Ch�vere = Cool. Cuanto cuesta? = How much?. Donde esta? = Where is?. Como se llama? = What is your name?. Me llamo… = My name is..
Specific Events/Holidays: Carnaval de Blancos y Negros: January, Carnaval de Barranquilla: February/March, Semana Santa: March or April; Feria de las Flores: August
Getting Around: Like most of South America, buses are the best means for navigating the country. Don’t attempt to drive your own vehicle, unless you’re friends with the FARC.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The main airport for travelers taking flights to Colombia is the El Dorado International Airport
Need more information?: Check out the Colombia travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there
