COLOMBIA
ALTITUDE
Colombia is traversed by the Andes but the reasonable altitude levels contribute to make different trip itineraries possible. Bogota is at 2600 meters, Villa de Leyva at 2200 meters and the archaeological site of San Agustin and the region of coffee at 1700/2000 meters of elevation.
BEVERAGES
Coffee, fruit juices and Rum cocktails mainly on the Caribbean coast. Also, to be highlighted, the excellent coffee liquor “Coloma” which replaces coffee at the end of Colombian meals.
CRAFTS
Gold jewels inspired by pre-Columbian goldsmith’s trade and emeralds will be the most beautiful souvenirs of your trip. Also, nice high quality bags and fabrics fashioned by the native communities.
CREDITS CARDS
Most banks, hotels and shops in cities accept Visa or MasterCard. ATMs are available in big cities but there are not as many as you can find in Europe.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2023
- 1 January: New Year’s Day
- 9 January: Three Kings Day
- 20 March: San José
- 6 to 9 April: Easter
- 1 May: Labour Day
- 22 May: Ascension Day
- 12 June: Corpus Christi
- 19 June: The Sacred Heart of Jesus
- 3 July: Saint Peter and Paul
- 20 July: Independence Day
- 7 August: Battle of Boyaca
- 21 August: Ascension of the Virgin
- 16 October: Race Day
- 13 November: Independence of Cartagena
- 8 December: Immaculate Conception
- 25 December: Christmas
ELECTRICITY
110 volts outlets, flat blade plugs therefore bring a plug adapter.
CURRENCY & EXCHANGE
Euro is widely accepted. Recommended to bring small bills that you can exchange into Colombian pesos.
CURRENT TIME
-7h (-6h on French winter time).
CUSTOMS
For European citizens a valid passport for 6 months after return date is required.
EMBASSIES
SAFETY
Tourism is expanding again in Colombia. The country can be visited everywhere except outside of established touristic routes. In big cities be as careful as you will be in big European cities.
GASTRONOMY
Simple and delicious cuisine. In the Andes region, most of the dishes are native inspiration made with potato and corn. To name the Arepa, stuffed corn pancake and the Ajiaco, potato soup. On the tropical coast, the African influence is significant: many dishes are cooked with coconut milk. Not-to-be-missed cooked rice in coconut water, goes with all your dishes and is a true delight.
HEALTH
No vaccination is mandatory. Take with you all medication you need if you are following a specific treatment. Water is not drinkable.
HOW TO DRESS?
For the Caribbean region, tropical clothing. For the Andes region wool clothes and raincoats. If you visit Colombia from June to September, bring warmer clothing.
To mention that in the coffee region and in San Agustin, euros are less accepted. Preferred currency: USA dollars
TAXIS
Yellow taxis are reliable however, it is recommended to agree on a fare before leaving.
TELECOMS
Calling from Europe to Colombia, please dial 00+57
Calling from Colombia to France, please dial 00+33
Call centers can be found everywhere, with very low costs for calls.
WEATHER
Large diversity of climates: tropical on the Caribbean coast and moderate in the Andes area. Dry season spreads out from November to March. Temperatures can be cool even cold in the Andes during winter from June to September.
