Colombia Holidays
After years of being overlooked as a tourist destination, Colombia is enjoying something of a South American holiday revival, becoming a new and exciting destination. It is unspoilt, with stunning scenery, a wonderful Caribbean coastline and snow-capped mountain ranges. During your holiday to Columbia, you’ll see Spanish colonial cities, pre-Colombian ruins, spectacular National Parks and flower and coffee farms.
Cartagena is the Caribbean jewel in Colombia's crown, its old quarter has been refurbished and many colonial mansions have been carefully restored and turned into attractive boutique hotels, sophisticated restaurants and wine bars. The city has a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere, in the balmy evenings Colombians and visitors alike stroll along the narrow streets, or take a ride in one of horse-drawn carriages along the sea front.
Colombia's people are friendly with a zest for life and the rhythms of salsa and merengue are never far away. Voted by Lonely Planet Guidebooks one the Top Ten travel destinations, most visitors are greatly surprised by this beautiful country. On top of all this, it's also extremely good value for money!
Colombia has an equatorial climate and therefore doesn’t have dramatic seasonal changes. The best time for the country as a whole is from December through March when there is the least amount of rain. From May to July and October to December there can be frequent short, heavy showers, though they are usually followed by bright sunshine.
Our Latin America specialists will give you first-hand advice from their travel experience to help shape a unique holiday to Columbia for you.
The food of Colombia is characterized by a combination of native and European recipes. The main cuisine includes a wide range of fruits, meats, and even coffee in certain recipes. The traditional dish of Colombia is the Sancocho, a stew made of vegetables including corn, potatoes, and yuca. Often the dish is served with fish or poultry.
Another popular dish is Bandeja Paisa, a spicy mix of red beans, chorizo, arepa, chopped meat, and white rice.
Popular alcoholic drinks include the aguardiente and the chicha. World-famous Colombian coffee is part of the daily diet for most locals.
The socio-cultural life of the country has a large impact on the entertainment you may encounter in Colombia. The main sources are newspapers, radio, and television. A vibrant nightlife scene is also significant to the entertainment culture, especially salsa bars and dance clubs.
EU and US citizens do not need a visa if they are planning to stay for 60 days or less, although you must show a valid passport upon arrival. It is suggested that you also have evidence of a return ticket to provide should you be asked.
The electric current is 110 volts, identical to the United States.
When travelling to Columbia as with any destination, it is recommended that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when out after dark.
The country’s proximity to the equator means the temperatures vary little throughout the year. As it strictly changes with altitude, you can experience different climates within a couple hours of travel.
Columbia has two seasons: the dry season which is the summertime and wet season which is considered winter. Over recent years the country has experienced change in weather patterns because of El Nino and La Nina.
It is recommended that travellers ensure their Tetanus and Polio vaccines are up to date. In addition, it is also suggested that Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccines are taken two weeks prior to travel.
The flying time from the UK is 11 hours.
The official language of Colombia is Spanish.
The official currency of Colombia is the Peso.
The time difference is GMT -6 hours.
Select the type of Colombia holiday you would like below.
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Amanda SweeneyBogota is a quirky, vibrant city, with many of its buildings containing a certain Disney-like charm. As you stumble around the city, you will always find a little surprise around every corner.
Walking around, you may find yourself a little breathless because of the altitude - just keep hydrated and take regular breaks until your body acclimatises.
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