A complete guide to traveling to Colombia, an affordable adventure trip

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Colombia is a vibrant and colorful cultural country that is attracting more and more tourists to come and explore, in this article, we will detail the do's and don'ts of traveling to Colombia, affordable hotels, food recommendations, weather conditions, transportation, and personal safety precautions, with a special emphasis on travel must-haves, including PhoneSIMGo offers esim packages to ensure your trip to Colombia is enjoyable and worry-free.

ultimate guide to Colombia travel-PhoneSIMGo

Travel Essentials

Before you head to Colombia, it's vital to have your travel essentials on hand to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Here are the things you need to always have on hand:

  1. Passport and Visa: Make sure your passport is valid and apply for a visa as needed. Colombia offers a visa-free or visa-on-arrival policy for visitors from many countries, but it is recommended to check in advance if your country requires a visa to avoid disrupting your travel plans.

  2. TRAVEL INSURANCE: Protect yourself during your trip by purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance can cover unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, lost luggage and trip cancellation, making your trip more secure.

  3. Cell phone and charger: Bring your smartphone with you to make it easier to stay in touch with family and friends. Make sure you have a cell phone charger and spare batteries to avoid being unable to use it due to lack of power.

  4. esim package: The esim package from PhoneSIMGo provides you with high-speed internet service covering remote areas. This means you can stay connected while traveling, checking maps, connecting with family or sharing photos of your trip at any time.

  5. Personal medication: This includes common medications and first aid supplies. Make sure you carry some common medications such as cold remedies, painkillers and digestive medications to avoid trouble finding them locally.

  6. Sunscreen: protect your skin from the sun. Colombia is located in the tropics and the sun is strong, sunscreen is essential to prevent sunburn.

  7. Light clothing: Clothing suitable for the local climate. Colombia's climate varies from region to region; prepare clothing suitable for the tropics and mountains for different weather conditions.

  8. Credit cards and cash: Prepare some cash and credit cards for emergencies. While credit cards are usually accepted in stores and restaurants in big cities, cash is more common in small towns and markets.

  9. Camera: Document your time in Colombia. A camera or high-quality cell phone camera can help you capture the moments of your trip.

  10. PORTABLE WATER BOTTLE: Stay hydrated to avoid dehydration. Staying hydrated is important in tropical climates, and carrying a reusable water bottle will reduce plastic waste.

Main Precautions

1. Travel safety

It is vital to know the security situation in Colombia before traveling, and the following are personal safety precautions:

  1. Avoid traveling at night: Try to avoid going out alone at night, especially in isolated areas. When traveling at night, it is advisable to choose safe transportation and avoid walking on unfamiliar or unfamiliar streets.

  2. Pay attention to personal belongings: Keep your belongings safe and avoid exposing valuables. In public places, make sure your bag is zipped shut and do not leave valuables such as cell phones in plain sight.

  3. Choose safe transportation: Use registered cabs or well-known taxi apps. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber are recommended; these services offer safer transportation and the driver's identity can be tracked.

  4. Know the local laws: familiarize yourself with Colombian laws and regulations to avoid breaking the law. In some areas, it may be illegal to carry certain items and it is important to know the relevant laws.

  5. Keep in touch: Contact friends or family regularly to inform them of your trip. If you have friends or relatives in the area, it is advisable to ask them for safety advice.

  6. Choose safe accommodation: Choose a well-known hotel or hostel. Check hotel reviews online in advance and choose a place with good security and quality of service.

  7. Avoid remote areas: Try to avoid sparsely populated areas. If you want to explore remote areas, it is advisable to travel in a group to ensure safety.

  8. Know emergency contact information: Make sure you know the local police and medical emergency numbers. Record this information on your cell phone in case of emergency.

  9. Possess proof of identity: Carry a copy of your passport with you at all times in case you need to check it. The original is best kept in the hotel safe to avoid loss.

  10. Trust your intuition: If you feel that a place is not safe, leave promptly. Follow your instincts and be safe first.

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2. Choice of Transportation

Choose the appropriate means of transportation according to your mode of travel:

  • Urban public transportation: In big cities such as Bogotá and Medellín, public transportation systems are well developed and affordable. Metros, buses and streetcars are common choices with cheap and convenient fares.

  • Taxis and ride-hailing apps: such as Uber, allow you to move around the city safely. Using a taxi app avoids direct transactions with the driver, the price is transparent and the trip is safer.

  • Long-distance buses: for economical travel between cities. Colombia has a well-developed network of long-distance buses that offer comfortable seating and convenient service at relatively cheap fares, making them an affordable option.

  • Driving: If you want to explore remote areas, self-driving is a great option. Before renting a car, make sure you know the local traffic rules and have a GPS or map ready.

  • Biking and Walking: Biking or walking are also great options in smaller towns. Many cities have bike paths and you can choose to rent a bike, which is both environmentally friendly and healthy.

3. Hotel recommendations

Here are some recommendations for affordable hotels and hostels:

  1. Casa Bellavista (Bogota): this is a highly rated B&B offering clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices in a convenient location.

  2. Hostal Sue Candelaria (Bogotá): located in the historic district, close to the main attractions, suitable for backpackers and has a friendly atmosphere.

  3. Hotel Casona del Patio (Medellín): offers modern facilities in a beautiful setting and good value for money, suitable for families and business travelers.

  4. Viajero Medellin Hostel (Medellin): a popular backpacker's hostel offering social activities and travel advice, making it easy to meet new people.

  5. Hostal La Candelaria (Cartagena): this hostel is ideally located near the beach and main attractions for travelers on a budget.

  6. Hotel San Felipe (Cartagena): offers comfortable accommodation and friendly service, close to the city center and easy to get around.

  7. Hotel Casa de la Vega (Barranquilla): family-run hotel offering a cozy environment and delicious breakfast.

  8. Hostal El Patio (Barranquilla): affordable hostel close to the main attractions for backpackers.

  9. Hotel B3 Virrey (Bogotá): modern hotel with high quality services and facilities, suitable for business and leisure travel.

  10. Selina Medellin (Medellin): combines the concepts of a hotel and a shared space, offering a wide range of room types suitable for travelers with different needs.

4. Gastronomic recommendations

Colombia's cuisine is rich and varied, here are 10 local dishes you can't miss:

  1. Arepa: Tortillas with a variety of fillings such as cheese, meat or avocado are a traditional Colombian dish.

  2. Bandeja Paisa: hearty traditional dish of beef, sausage, beans, rice and fried eggs, usually in large portions, a local classic.

  3. Salpico (Sancocho): a hearty broth, usually made with chicken or beef, served with fresh vegetables and herbs.

  4. Pastel: a deep-fried meatloaf filled with meat and potatoes, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, one of the local snacks.

  5. Pescado a la Plancha: Simple steamed fish, usually served with rice and fresh vegetables, with a delicious flavor.

  6. Juice (Jugo): Fresh fruit juices with a wide variety of flavors, especially tropical fruits, are worth trying.

  7. Café Colombiano: world-renowned, high-quality coffee, worth trying, many cafés offer hand-brewed or espresso coffee.

  8. Biscuits (Galletas): local specialty desserts in a variety of varieties, suitable for afternoon tea.

  9. Tortillas (Bollos): snacks made from corn, often accompanied by meat or fish, with a unique flavor.

  10. Casabe: pastry made from cassava with a variety of toppings that can be served as a main course or as a snack.

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5. Weather conditions

In December and January, the weather in Colombia is usually warm and suitable for traveling. Here are the weather conditions in some cities:

  • Bogotá: Temperatures are around 10-20°C, dry and suitable for light clothing. Temperatures are cooler at night, so it is advisable to carry a light jacket.

  • Medellin: Temperatures are around 15-25°C, humid and suitable for comfortable clothing. This season is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the sun.

  • Cartagena: Temperatures are around 25-30°C, hot and sun protection is required. The beach is very popular and it is recommended to bring a swimsuit and sunscreen.

6. Low-cost attractions and activities

Here are 10 recommendations for low-cost attractions and activities:

  1. Bogota Gold Museum (Museum) - Admission is free. The museum exhibits a wealth of gold artifacts and is a great place to learn about the history of Colombia.

  2. Park Alveo de Medellín (Park) - Great for walking and relaxing. With beautiful flowers and recreational facilities, it is frequented by local residents.

  3. Cartagena's Old Town (historical site) - Stroll through the streets and soak up the history. The Old Town has a unique architectural style and is perfect for photography.

  4. San Fide Bogotá (Church) - Visit the beautiful church, usually free of charge. The architecture of the church is impressive and perfect for meditation.

  5. Guadalhul River Park (natural landscape) - good for hiking and picnics. The park is rich in natural landscapes and allows for outdoor activities.

  6. Barranquilla's Beach (Beach) - Enjoy the sun and waves. Admission to the beach is usually free and is a great place to relax.

  7. Street Art in Medellín (Urban Exploration) - Enjoy the graffiti and artwork in the city. Many of the graffiti pieces are socially and politically significant and very interesting.

  8. Museum Tour in Bogota (Museums) - Some museums are free on certain days, so it is advisable to check opening times in advance.

  9. Cartagena's Walls (Historic Site) - Take a walk along the walls overlooking the city. The walls are a symbol of the city, rich in history and well worth a visit.

  10. Cameroon's nature reserves (natural sites) - Enjoy the beauty of nature. It is rich in biodiversity and suitable for hiking and exploring.

7. Emergency Contacts

When traveling in Colombia, it is important to know emergency contact information:

  • Police number: 123 for any emergency.
  • Medical Emergency: 125 for medical assistance.
  • Fire Department: 119, for emergencies such as fires.
  • Tourist Police: 01800-919-999, specialized in helping tourists.
  • Consulate contact information for your home country: Check your local consulate for information on how to get help if needed.

8. Cultural overview

Colombian culture is rich and diverse, with influences from Hispanic, indigenous and African cultures. Music, dance, festivals and cuisine are important parts of its culture. The locals are warm and welcoming and love to share their traditional customs and way of life with visitors. Festivals such as Karnaval and the Flower Festival are the best time to experience the local culture, and visitors can participate in the celebrations and feel the strong festive atmosphere.

9. Must-have App Recommendations

When traveling to Colombia, installing the following essential apps can enhance your travel experience:

  1. Google Maps: navigate and find locations to ensure you arrive at your destination without any problems.
  2. Uber: a safe and convenient taxi service that avoids direct transactions with drivers.
  3. TripAdvisor: view restaurant and attraction reviews to help you choose quality places to dine.
  4. Duolingo: Learn basic Spanish for easy communication with locals.
  5. WhatsApp: keep in touch with family and friends, a common communication tool when abroad.
  6. PhoneSIMGo: buy an esim card to ensure internet connection and avoid high roaming charges.
  7. Airbnb: Find affordable accommodation, especially for travelers who like to experience local life.
  8. Translator App: help with communication and translation, especially if you don't speak the same language.
  9. Weather Forecast: to know the local weather conditions, easy to adjust the trip.

ultimate guide to Colombia travel-PhoneSIMGo

Common Travel Questions

Here are 10 common questions to keep in mind when traveling abroad:

  1. How do I deal with a lost passport?
    • If you lose your passport, the first step is to immediately contact your local police to report the loss and ask for proof of the report. Then, go to the embassy or consulate of your country to apply for a replacement passport.
  2. How do I deal with language barriers?
    • The official language of Colombia is Spanish. Many people will speak some English, but learning some basic Spanish phrases will be of great help.
  3. How do I choose the right travel insurance?
    • When choosing travel insurance, be sure to check coverage for medical emergencies, loss of belongings, and trip cancellation. Compare quotes and terms and conditions from different insurance companies and choose a plan that suits your needs.
  4. Is it necessary to exchange cash?
    • Although credit cards are accepted in many places, cash is still the main form of payment in remote areas and small stores. It is advisable to exchange some cash immediately upon arrival for emergencies.
  5. How do I deal with unexpected health problems?.
    • In the event of a health problem, the first step is to find the nearest hospital or clinic. Make sure to carry your travel insurance information with you so that you can quickly access medical services if needed.
  6. How do I choose the right mode of transportation for me?
    • Choose your transportation according to your itinerary. For short trips, choose public transportation or cabs; for long trips, choose long-distance buses.
  7. Do I need to book a hotel in advance?
    • During peak travel seasons (e.g. Christmas and New Year period), it is advisable to book hotels in advance to ensure that suitable accommodation is available. During the low season, good accommodation can usually be found on a temporary basis.
  8. How can I ensure that my cell phone communication is smooth while traveling?
    • Consider purchasing a local SIM card or using an eSIM service before you leave. PhoneSIMGo offers an eSIM package specifically for Colombian travelers that provides high-speed internet service, covers remote areas, and is affordable, ensuring that you stay connected while traveling and say goodbye to roaming charges.
  9. How do I cope with cultural differences in Colombia?
    • Learn about the local culture and customs and respect the way of life of the locals. Be polite and friendly in social situations and avoid sensitive topics.
  10. How do I get useful local information?
    • Before traveling, you can obtain local information through travel guides, blogs and social media. Upon arrival, check with hotel staff or locals for up-to-date advice and recommendations.

Internet problems:

It is often easy to overlook cell phone communication or network issues when traveling abroad. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, it is recommended to know and prepare for network solutions in advance. The esim package from PhoneSIMGo is designed to provide Colombian travelers with high-speed internet service, covering remote areas. Guaranteeing you a pleasant stay in Colombia Travel, in cooperation with local carriers,providing 7/24 hours online live customer service, esim service allows you to travel worry-free, enjoy high-speed internet, and say goodbye to roaming charges.

Summary:

With the above suggestions and recommendations, we hope your travel in Colombia will be full of fun and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to travel freely, with a group, self-drive or backpacking, prepare in advance and enjoy every moment of this beautiful country.