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Travel Information

ColombiaThings to Know

Discover Colombia's dynamic landscapes and vibrant cultures effortlessly.

How to plan a trip to Colombia?

For an exciting Colombia vacation, you should consider what activities you most want to do. The country has a wealth of diverse geography, so you’ll need to first choose between the coast, the mountains and the cities, or decide on a combination. Your choice of beautiful beaches vs. jungle-covered mountains will completely change your activity options and packing list. Flights in Colombia are centralized, so you should expect to fly to Bogotá on your way to or from places in the country. For example, flying from Santa Marta on the Caribbean coast to Medellín in the mountains, you will probably have a layover in Bogotá.

How much does a trip to Colombia typically cost?

Colombia is one of the least expensive countries in South America. Travelling for one week costs about $1,000, without including international airfare. Simple or rustic hotels for $20-$50 a night are common and for $100 a night you can find a luxurious accommodation, though prices are higher in Bogotá. Day tours on a Colombia vacation typically cost around $50, depending on the activity.

Where to go on a Colombia vacation?

International flights typically arrive in Bogotá, so you’ll have to decide how much time to spend in the capital before setting off for the coast or the mountains. The Caribbean coast has warm water, a few cities and generally more development than the Pacific coast. If you want to see more wildlife and fewer people, choose the cooler waters of the less crowded Pacific. After Colombia’s beautiful beaches, the next most famous area is the Zona Cafetera, where some of the world’s best coffee is grown. Colombia’s delicious coffee grows in the mountains between the popular cities of Medellín and Cali.

Is it safe to travel to Colombia?

Colombia is safe for travellers, especially in the most popular tourist destinations. Headlines on peace accords and new hotel openings have replaced 1990s news clips of conflict. However, pickpockets are common in crowded areas. Travellers should keep a close eye on their belongings and be aware of their surroundings. Mountains and forests far from cities are less safe for international tourists as remote areas have very little police presence or assistance. Be cautious using dating apps in Colombia, as recently they have been used to target tourists for theft.

Is Colombia LGBTQ+ friendly?

Colombia has recently made great strides towards inclusion and equity for LGBTQ+ citizens and travellers. Marriage equality was legalized in 2016 and Colombians in the LGBTQ+ community are treated as equals throughout the country. Public displays of affection are only common in major cities and in beach resorts with lots of international travellers. When in rural villages, it’s best to keep a low profile.

Do I need a visa for Colombia?

Travellers from the US and Canada do not need a visa before arriving in Colombia. Many nationalities from around the world, including most European countries, receive a visa on arrival for 90 days. You will be asked to show your ticket departing Colombia either to board your flight to Colombia or when you pass through customs on arrival. Most nationalities may renew the visa to stay longer than 90 days, in which case you should make sure your departure flight is changeable or refundable.

What is the currency in Colombia?

Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP), which uses the same $ symbol as the dollar. Depending on the exchange rate, one US dollar is equivalent to around $4,000 pesos. However, it is an unstable currency and can fluctuate between $3,000 and $5,000 pesos per dollar within a few months. Most Colombians ignore the last three zeros, so don’t be surprised if they ask for 4 pesos, meaning 4,000.

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Sandra Lira
Central America, South America, US & Canada

As a child to first generation European immigrants, I always felt this deep longing to visit the countries my parents were from. Once I became an adult, I decided to brave the unknown and begin travelling on my own, without the familiarity of having family or friends travel with me. I started with organized group tours, and would add on extra days or weeks, for self exploration. I realized that I loved who I was while travelling the world, and couldn't get enough! I would travel every few months to a new and exotic place, always departing on my own, but making lifelong friends along the way. Now, as a mother to two incredible boys, my adventures look a little different. Though I don't get to travel as far or as often as before, I make sure my boys see the beauty of the world all around them, and encourage their natural-born curiosity for exploration!

Ani Mesropian
Europe, South America

I have been in the tourism industry my whole life, with both my education and work experience specifically in this field. I've worked in tourism across five countries, covering various segments such as outgoing, incoming, and hotels. Currently, I work in the GroupsOnly department and specialize in tailor-made group vacations.

RuthAnne Leonty
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

Throughout my life I have enjoyed travelling to many places all around the world. I have travelled to England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Netherland, France, Spain, Morocco, Ghana West Africa. United States, Mexico, Caribbean, Guatemala, El Salvador, Ecuador and Peru. I truly enjoy spending time rubbing elbows with local cultures, history and love learning about other peoples day to day lives, especially local cuisine and traditions. I love having amazing travel moments that make you step outside of your comfort zone and see the world through different eyes. I love to interact with people and discover what truly sets them apart and find ways to relate to them on a personal level. I enjoy interacting with my clients and hearing all about their future travel dreams, past travel experiences and I always try to find ways to wow my clients.

Susanna Beccati
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

I was born and raised in a small town in the southern part of Italy and always dreamed of exploring new parts of the world. That dream finally became a reality when I moved to Canada at the age of 18. I studied Travel & Tourism at Centennial College where I received my diploma. Following my studies, I gained experience in both the hospitality and travel industries through my family's restaurant and various travel companies. Travel is an addiction you don't want to be cured of. Once you visit places like Marrakech with its hustle and bustle and walk through its market full of colors and scents from various spices, explore the streets of Toledo, see the medieval walls and the aqueduct of Segovia in Spain, and visit the stunning Colosseum in Rome (I could spend hours admiring it and imagining the life of the ancient Romans), you know that you are meant to explore the world and help others do the same.

Virginia Dameno
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

I've always been captivated by the allure of discovering new places, immersing myself in diverse cultures, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and embracing alternative ways of life. While pursuing my university degree, I toiled diligently to fulfill my dream of embarking on a month-long backpacking adventure across Europe, basking in the sun on the idyllic shores of the Mayan Riviera, trekking through the awe-inspiring terrain of Patagonia, and unwinding on the enchanting beaches of Brazil. Yet, my wanderlust was insatiable. Following the successful completion of my bachelor's degree in International Relations, I embarked on a thrilling journey that led me to live and work in cool spots like Aspen, Vancouver, and Sydney. It was during my globetrotting adventures that I met the love of my life. We tied the knot, settled down in Vancouver, and started a family. Our love for travel never died down. Whether it's a spur-of-the-moment trip to Whistler or an epic journey to Southeast Asia, I'm all about that adventure life. With this burning passion, it was a no-brainer that I'd end up working in the travel industry.

Jaime Vargas-Hernandez
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

After traveling to more than 55 countries across many continents, my passion for traveling and helping other “GLOBETROTTERS” is incredible remarkable. I started traveling In North and Latin America when I was a kid. After I decided to explore other destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa among others and the adventures continue. I always go that extra mile to make your vacation something memorable. Let’s have quick chat and let me help you to create the best plan ever for the vacation you have always dreamed of.

Julia Bates
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

I was born in Toronto and raised in The West Indies, I have been blessed with the opportunity to grow up around many different cultures & to travel to many different places. My travel-bug started as a child, when I first travelled as an unaccompanied minor to a summer camp abroad. The thrill of seeing new places, learning the culture, history & experiencing brand-new surroundings is second to none. Having now travelled to 5 continents, lived in 5 different countries, and travelled to almost 30, I look forward to checking more off of my list! The love & thrill for travel is what I strive to make possible for my clients - our Globetrotters - every day. Whether it is a small family trip or a honeymoon getaway, I'm happy to help turn any travel dream into a reality! 

Karina Basantes
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

I truly believe that I was born to explore the world. Early in my life my dad introduced me to travel, he worked in the Ecuadorian jungle and I lived in the capital – Quito – with the rest of my family so we used to fly to visit him and at the same time explore the jungle!! I feel this is when all began, going to the beach, the mountains, the amazon within my country, and as I grew, I started to travel internationally. Being from South America my interest was to explore new continents and there is where I started. I started in Europe. I still remember the taste of the Italian pizza, their gelato, the amazing landscapes during winter in Salzburg, the fun nights in Barcelona, the night light in Paris, the history that lives in Jerusalem and many other places  where I would love to go back Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Munich, Venice. Each country full with culture, traditions and amazing people. My interest in travel expanded even more to explore the American Continent, Playa del Carmen -  Mexico, Eastern Island and Patagonia - Chile, Machu Picchu – Peru, Galapagos – Ecuador, Iguassu – Brazil. During my trips I enjoy learning new things which at my work I share with my clients. I love delivering the right travel itinerary to my clients for a memorable trip.

Osvaldo Gonzalez
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

Born and raised in the smallest country of Central America, El Salvador, I discovered my passionate about traveling and learning from other cultures when living for two years in Europe. I love self-drive trips and discovering the world with only a backpack. Before moving to Canada, I took a chance to travel and discover the wonders of Latin America, my beautiful homeland. Goway has now given me the opportunity to do what I love the most, helping globetrotters to customize the trip they have always dreamed of.

Samy Koussa
Central America, South America, Arctic & Antarctica

Born and raised in Normandy, France, with Tunisian origins, my journey into the world of travel began at a young age. From family trips to international summer camps and solo adventures starting at the age of 23, I've always had a deep connection with exploring new horizons. My globetrotter life truly blossomed during my two-year stay in Australia.

In the vast expanse of our world, I've been fortunate to visit over 40 countries, each revealing its unique beauty. What I've learned from my travels is that beauty exists everywhere; it simply awaits those who are willing to see it through a different lens.

Join me in celebrating the boundless beauty our planet has to offer. Bon Voyage!

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