Colombia has left a lasting impression on me as one of the most stunning countries I’ve ever had the pleasure of exploring.

I spent two weeks exploring the vibrant cities of Barranquilla, Palenque, and most especially Cartagena and here’s everything you need to know before visiting.

Best time to visit is from December to March and July to August

The Best time to visit is during the dry seasons between December and March and July and August with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Essential Entry Info

Canadians are required to pay a fee of $256,000 COP (~$85 CAD) for entry into the country in line with international reciprocity norms. Currently, permanent residents need a visa, which can be applied for mostly online through the Colombian embassy. “It’s essential to fill out the pre-registration form (Check-MIG) before your departure and upon leaving Colombia. You can complete this form up to 72 hours before your trip.

https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/en/DatosViaje

Official Language

Spanish is the official language, but if you don’t speak it, you can use Google Translate. Since it’s a popular tourist destination, you can easily get by using English.

Currency

Colombian pesos are the official currency, but USD is widely accepted. However, it’s a good idea to have some local currency for smoother negotiations and street purchases.

Accommodation

I stayed at this stunning Airbnb located within the walled city, right in the heart of all the action. While Bocagrande and San Diego/Getsemani are also great areas, my personal preference is the walled city.

Packing lists

Due to the intense heat, its essential to pack sunscreen, light clothing, sunglasses, portable hand fan and any other personal items (Check out my travel resources for recommendations).

Moving around

You can explore the walled city on foot or using a carriage and you can take a taxi which is quite accessible but be prepared to negotiate the fare.

Activities and Tours

For activities and tours, you can either book through local bookings agencies upon arrival, hire a local tour guide or utilize booking websites like Expedia for your reservations. I opted to book most of my activities upon arrival, which I found to be more cost-effective.

Culture

Enjoy the lively music scene featuring genres like cumbia and salsa. Take pictures with the Palenqueras and capture every moment.

Safety

During my stay, a common question I was asked was about safety, and I can confidently say that I felt secure the entire time. Even as a solo traveler, I found Colombia to be generally safe.