7 Reasons to Travel to Colombia with Llama Travel
Our group sizes are small, with a maximum of 18 guests but an average of 11. This means you can see the sights without feeling like part of a crowd, get to know your fellow travellers, and have more time to ask your guide questions.
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One of Colombia’s biggest draws for many visitors is the vibrancy and colour of its cities.
Our ‘Treasures of El Dorado’ tour begins in Bogotá, Colombia’s modern-day capital. Originally populated by indigenous groups like the Muiscas, Spaniard Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada founded the city as Santa Fe de Bogotá shortly before it became an outpost of the Spanish empire in 1550. Independence from Spain was declared for the first time in 1810, but it was not until the decisive Battle of Boyacá in 1819 that the Republic of Gran Colombia was formed and Bogotá was named the capital. After several periods of civil and political unrest, the 20th century brought major development to the city, growing from a population of around 700,000 in 1950 to almost 8 million today. Bogotá has now developed into a safe, thriving capital, with welcoming locals, cultural draws, a booming university community and new modern districts sitting beside well-preserved historic neighbourhoods. Our optional Historic Bogotá excursion includes a guided tour through the historic centre and a funicular ride into the surrounding Andean peaks for 360-degree views of the city.
Medellín is another city with a fascinating history. In the 1980s, drug lord Pablo Escobar gained control of the city and reigned for over a decade. Since then, huge efforts have transformed Medellín into a safe, modern, pioneering city. El Poblado, located south of the city centre, is where many of the international restaurant chains and shopping brands, fashionable bars and nightclubs can be found. This is one of the more prestigious neighbourhoods, along with other upper-class residential suburbs such as Laureles and Belen, and is comparable to Bogotá’s Zona Rosa district. As in Bogotá, the city centre of Medellín has a more authentically Colombian feel, and, thanks to the current spirit of preservation and regeneration, this district is of considerable cultural interest, with architectural heritage and recently installed artwork intended to underline Medellín’s reinvention. Nowadays, Medellín has consolidated its status as a major centre for international business and commerce. Our optional Inspirational Medellín excursion unpacks the city’s transformation into one of Latin America’s most innovative and creative places. There is also the option to add a visit to Guatapé, less than two hours from the city of Medellín, on our ‘Colourful Guatapé’ excursion.
Cartagena, a colourful seaport town, is the final stop on our core 13-day ‘Treasures of El Dorado’ tour. The city’s position close to the northern tip of South America and proximity to the mighty Magdalena River made it an ideal location for the Spanish conquerors to store plundered gold and resources before shipping them to Europe. Inevitably, numerous attacks from pirates and privateers, including Francis Drake, ensued, leading to the construction of the town’s fortified walls in the 17th century. Today, the walled Old Town is the city’s main attraction; its brightly-coloured buildings and balconies covered in flowers are one of the most iconic images of Colombia. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has a friendly, bustling atmosphere, and the nearby Caribbean beaches add to the attraction. With two full days at leisure in the city, you can opt to explore independently or take our ‘Colourful Cartagena’ tour.
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The Coffee Region, located in the centre of Colombia, has possibly the finest coffee plantations on the continent, as well as some stunning scenery. There is a large population, and the three main towns of the region are Manizales, Armenia and Pereira, collectively forming what is known as the ‘coffee triangle’.
The area of Pereira was inhabited before European colonisation by the Quimbaya, known for their artwork in gold. The Spaniards established their first settlement here around 1540, and it is now the largest city in the region.
With 3 nights in the Coffee Region, you can relax around the hacienda-style hotel, which has an outdoor pool, sauna, restaurant and panoramic views, take an optional excursion to a coffee plantation to learn about the journey from bean to cup, or take a guided walk through the cloud forest in the Cocora Valley.
Colombian food is quite diverse, with the coast, the Andes and jungle favouring different ingredients, allowing for an interesting mix.
Many of the most traditional dishes can be found in the historic city centre of Bogotá, and Calle 11 has a number of tourist-friendly restaurants with menus in Spanish and English. One of the most popular dishes from Bogotá itself is ajiaco, a tasty soup containing shredded chicken, potatoes, tubers, and corn on the cob, served with rice and avocado. Another interesting and unique choice is chocolate santerfereño: hot chocolate served with cheese (to melt in the chocolate) and two types of bread.
The most well-known dish to hail from Medellín is ‘bandeja paisa’, a tasty plate showcasing many of Colombia’s favourite foods. The dish includes a generous variety of ingredients: red beans with pork, rice, a fried egg, plantain, minced meat, chorizo, an arepa (a type of corn flour pancake), black pudding, pork scratchings, avocado and hogao sauce. The bandeja, or platter in English, originated in the Andean region, so Medellín is the best place to try this much-loved meal.
The restaurants in Cartagena offer a rich culinary variety, combining flavours and ingredients from the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia. Lunchtime set menus offer good value for money, whilst high-end international cuisine is common in the historic centre.
A variation on our core ‘Treasures of El Dorado’ tour adds 3 nights in Tayrona Beach to the end of your holiday, allowing you to unwind and relax in one of Colombia’s most gorgeous and idyllic destinations.
On the ‘Treasures of El Dorado + Tayrona Beach’ tour, you have 2 full days at leisure in Tayrona, giving you the option to lounge around the pool at the Casa Tayrona Los Naranjos, relax on one of the nearby beaches or navigate Tayrona National Park’s vast wildlife and waterfalls just 3 kilometres away.
As well as the choice between our core 13-day ‘Treasures of El Dorado’ tour or the 16-day option including a stay in Tayrona, there are a number of optional excursions throughout the tour, from city tours to cloud forest walks.
When booking with Llama Travel, you can enquire about regional airport departures, a choice of room or hotel upgrades and a variety of departure dates, allowing a greater degree of flexibility than many other providers.
A number of our in-house Travel Experts have visited Colombia themselves. When you enquire with us, you will have the chance to talk directly to an expert who has experienced Llama Travel tours themselves; they are always happy to share their expertise and help curate your perfect trip.
About Colombia
KEY FACTS
- When to Travel: Great to visit all year round, however October and November are the wettest months in the highlands
- Population: 55 million
- Area: 1,141,748 km2 (almost 5 times the area of the UK)
- Capital City: Bogota (population 8 million)
- Languages Spoken: Spanish. Indigenous languages spoken in some communities
- Time Difference: GMT - 5 hours
- Flying time from UK: Approximately 11.5 hours for a direct flight. Approximately 14-15 hours including a change of plane
- Bordering Countries: Peru, Ecuador, Brazil, Venezuela
- Key Destinations: Bogota, Cartagena, Medellín, Coffee Region, Tayrona National Park, Villa de Leyva
With the country’s political situation and image improving greatly in recent years, Colombia is quickly becoming recognised as one of Latin America’s most exciting destinations. It occupies around 1.1 million square kilometres (nearly 5 times that of the UK) in the continent’s north, bordered by Venezuela to the east, Brazil and Peru to the south, and Ecuador to the southeast. The cities and landscapes are wonderful, but it is perhaps the warmth and friendliness of Colombia’s 55 million people that will remain longest in the memory; they are proud of their country and often excited to share it with international visitors.
Colombia Highlights
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FAQs
Before You Go
A: No. British citizens can visit Colombia for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa. Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay, and you may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation on arrival. Entry requirements can change, so check the latest advice before travelling.
A: No vaccinations are mandatory for most travellers, but some are recommended depending on where you’re visiting. Yellow fever vaccination may be advised for certain regions, such as the Amazon or Tayrona National Park. Make sure routine UK vaccinations are up to date and consult TravelHealthPro or your GP before travelling.
A: Colombia’s climate varies by altitude rather than season, so packing layers is important. In cities such as Bogotá, evenings can be cool, while the Coffee Region and the Caribbean coast are generally warm and humid year-round. Lightweight clothing is suitable for most areas, but we recommend bringing a jumper or light fleece for cooler evenings and higher-altitude destinations.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as sightseeing often involves cobbled streets, nature walks and uneven ground. A lightweight waterproof jacket or small umbrella is also useful, as rain showers can occur at any time of year, particularly in the Andes and Coffee Region. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent are recommended, especially for coastal and jungle areas.
Electricity in Colombia is 110V, and plug types A and B are used, so travellers from the UK will need an adapter. Most phones, laptops and cameras will work with a simple adapter plug, but it is worth checking your device’s voltage compatibility before travelling.
We also suggest bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, along with a photocopy of your passport and travel insurance documents. A reusable water bottle, swimwear and a small day bag for excursions can also be useful during your trip.
A: Colombia can be visited year-round, as its climate depends more on altitude than season. December to March is generally drier in many regions and popular for travel, while July and August are also good months to visit. The Caribbean coast is warm throughout the year, while cities such as Bogotá stay cooler due to their altitude.Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as sightseeing often involves cobbled streets, nature walks and uneven ground. A lightweight waterproof jacket or small umbrella is also useful, as rain showers can occur at any time of year, particularly in the Andes and Coffee Region. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent are recommended, especially for coastal and jungle areas.
Electricity in Colombia is 110V, and plug types A and B are used, so travellers from the UK will need an adapter. Most phones, laptops and cameras will work with a simple adapter plug, but it is worth checking your device’s voltage compatibility before travelling.
We also suggest bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, along with a photocopy of your passport and travel insurance documents. A reusable water bottle, swimwear and a small day bag for excursions can also be useful during your trip.
A: There are currently no direct flights from the UK to Colombia, so journeys usually involve one connection in Europe or the USA. Flights from London typically take around 14 to 17 hours, depending on the route and connection time.
Practical Information
A: Colombia can be visited year-round. Coastal areas such as Cartagena are hot and tropical, while high-altitude cities like Bogotá are cooler with spring-like temperatures. Rainfall varies by region, but showers are often short and followed by sunshine.
A: Colombians are warm, friendly and proud of their culture. Greetings are polite and often involve a handshake or cheek kiss. Casual dress is common, though smart-casual clothing is appreciated in restaurants. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is helpful and appreciated.
A: Colombia operates on GMT −5 hours.
A: Colombia generally offers excellent value for money compared with Europe. Accommodation, food and transport are affordable, and eating out is often very good value - overall, travellers are often pleasantly surprised by how far their budget goes.
A: English is spoken in some hotels and tourist areas, but Spanish is the main language. Your Llama Travel guide will help with communication, and translation apps can be useful when travelling independently.
A: Tipping is common but modest. Many restaurants include a small service charge, and additional tips are at your discretion. Guides and drivers may be tipped if you’re happy with the service.
A: The Colombian Peso (COP) is the local currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, although it is useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases and rural areas.
A: Yes. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. ATMs are easy to find in cities and towns, although smaller businesses may prefer cash.
A: Some destinations, including Bogotá, are located at high altitude, so it can take a day or two to adjust. Most travellers experience only mild symptoms, such as tiredness or shortness of breath. Staying hydrated and taking things slowly when you arrive can help.
Health and Safety
A: Yes. Tourism has grown significantly, and many areas visited on organised itineraries are safe and welcoming. As with any destination, follow local advice, keep valuables secure and use trusted transport. Llama Travel works with experienced local partners to ensure your comfort and security.
A: Medical facilities in major cities are good. Your guide or hotel can help arrange assistance if needed. Travel insurance covering medical treatment and repatriation is essential.
A: Yes. Colombia is an excellent destination for solo travellers, particularly on escorted tours where transport, accommodation and excursions are arranged in advance. Colombians are known for being warm and welcoming, and group tours offer a sociable way to explore the country.
Connectivity & Communication
A: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and many cafés. Local SIM cards are inexpensive and easy to purchase at airports or shops with your passport. Many travellers also choose to use an eSIM provider such as Airalo (amongst others), which can be arranged before departure and allows you to access mobile data as soon as you arrive in Colombia.
Getting Around
A: Colombia is a large country, so travelling between regions often involves a combination of domestic flights and road journeys. Flights are the quickest way to travel between destinations such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena and the Coffee Region, helping you make the most of your time in the country.
Within cities, sightseeing is usually done on foot and by vehicle, while more rural areas such as the Coffee Region and national parks are explored by road. Journey times can sometimes be longer than expected due to mountainous terrain, but the scenery along the way is often part of the experience.
On Llama Travel holidays, all transport is arranged for you in advance, including flights, transfers and excursions, making travelling around Colombia straightforward and stress-free.
A: Roads can be winding in some regions, so travelling with manageable luggage is recommended. Porters are available in most hotels, and your main luggage is transported between destinations while you carry a small overnight bag for excursions when needed.
Food & Drink
A: Colombian cuisine is varied and hearty, with influences from Spanish, Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean traditions. Expect fresh fruit, grilled meats, rice, beans and regional specialities such as arepas, bandeja paisa and fresh seafood on the coast. Coffee is, of course, a highlight, especially when visiting the Coffee Region.
A: Tap water is safe to drink in major cities such as Bogotá and Medellín, but bottled or filtered water is recommended in rural areas and on the coast.
A: Yes. Popular drinks include Colombian beer, rum and aguardiente, an anise-flavoured local spirit. Fresh fruit juices are also widely available.
What to See
A: Colombia’s variety is one of its greatest strengths. Bogotá offers museums and historic neighbourhoods, the Coffee Region showcases green landscapes and traditional farms, Medellín demonstrates the country’s modern transformation, and Cartagena provides colourful colonial architecture on the Caribbean coast. Wildlife, national parks and cultural experiences add to the diversity.
A: Around two weeks is ideal for a first visit to Colombia, giving you enough time to experience the country’s cities, countryside and Caribbean coast without feeling rushed. Llama Travel holidays are typically around 13 to 16 days, depending on the itinerary and whether you choose to include a stay in Tayrona, which we feel is the perfect amount of time to see Colombia’s main highlights at a comfortable pace.
A: Yes. Colombia offers a great introduction to South America thanks to its mix of culture, scenery and wildlife. Popular routes between Bogotá, the Coffee Region, Medellín and Cartagena are well established, and travelling on a Llama Travel organised tour makes exploring the country straightforward and comfortable.
A: Bogotá combines colonial history with modern city life and is often the starting point for a trip to Colombia. Explore the cobbled streets of La Candelaria, visit the famous Gold Museum and Botero Museum, and take the cable car or funicular up Monserrate for panoramic views across the city. Bogotá is also known for its lively food scene, colourful markets and excellent museums.
A: Colombia’s Coffee Region is known for its rolling green hills, traditional coffee farms and colourful towns such as Salento. Walk among the towering wax palms of the Cocora Valley, learn about coffee production on a working finca and enjoy the region’s relaxed pace and beautiful scenery.
A: Medellín is a modern and innovative city surrounded by mountains. Visit the colourful Comuna 13 district, ride the cable cars above the city and explore nearby Guatapé, known for its brightly painted streets and lakeside setting.
A: Cartagena’s walled city is one of South America’s most attractive colonial centres, with colourful buildings, lively plazas and excellent restaurants. Stroll through the old town, explore its historic streets and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere, with nearby islands offering beaches and clear waters.
A: Tayrona is one of Colombia’s most beautiful coastal areas, where tropical rainforest meets Caribbean beaches and turquoise waters. Many visitors spend their time relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea or enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Tayrona National Park is a short local bus ride from the hotel and is known for its scenic walking trails, huge boulders, tropical vegetation and beautiful beaches. Some beaches are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, while the park is also home to wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas and colourful birdlife. There are several walking routes through the park, with opportunities to discover quieter beaches and viewpoints along the way.