Colombia Travel: Tailor-made Tours and Stays in Colombia

Travelling Colombia to the Rhythm of Salsa

Take salsa lessons with a private teacher in the magnificent city of Cartagena de Indias, a place steeped in history. Then enjoy the warm evenings putting what you have learnt into practice at a salsa bar overlooking the Caribbean…

Colombia: An Extraordinary Destination

Discover the treasures of Colombia: a journey to the edge of the world, where nature expresses itself with force and beauty!

Colombia is an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking adventure. The country has a remarkable variety of landscapes, terrain and climates. You will be amazed by the range of panoramas: white sand beaches, high mountains, arid desert and jungle. A trip of a thousand facets for an exceptional adventure, rich in emotion.

Awe-Inspiring Nature

Colombia is celebrated for its breathtaking natural sites. The country offers an impressive variety of spectacular landscapes. Among the must-sees:

Cabo San Juan and Arrecife beaches in Tayrona National Park, incomparably beautiful: blue waters, coconut palms, golden sand and magnificent sunsets. Caribbean paradise beaches for a total change of scenery.
The tropical rainforests of the Amazon region, harbouring extraordinary flora and fauna.
The Guajira Desert and the Tatacoa Desert, arid zones that offer a wild spectacle of fascinating beauty.
The snow-capped peaks of the Andes, for an escape of pure and grandiose beauty.

Colombia is a land of contrasts, home to breathtaking natural wonders. Exotic landscapes that will take your breath away!

Incredible Biodiversity

Colombia is renowned for its rich biodiversity, with a remarkable variety of ecosystems, plants and animals. The country has numerous national parks and nature reserves, including Tayrona National Natural Park and Amacayacu National Natural Park, which harbour an exceptional variety of animal and plant species.

You can observe rare animal species including the howler monkey, jaguar, mountain tapir, humpback whale and pink river dolphin.

The country is equally celebrated for its extraordinary variety of birds (over 1,800 recorded species) including rarities such as the snowy owl, Andean condor and scarlet ibis.

An Intense, Emotion-Filled Adventure

Colombia is a journey rich in emotion, with a vibrant culture, spectacular natural landscapes and a fascinating history. The country offers an intense travel experience for adventure lovers, with a wide variety of thrilling activities: jungle hiking, wildlife watching, encounters with local communities, water sports (windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing). Colombia’s mountain regions also offer rock climbing, trekking and white-water rafting. An ideal destination for travellers in search of adventure, encounters and unforgettable experiences.

Colombia: A Warm and Welcoming People

Colombians are renowned for being welcoming, smiley and open-minded. Proud of their heritage, they love sharing their traditions and culture with travellers from around the world. A rich, vibrant culture that expresses itself through music, the arts and folklore. Salsa is Colombia’s most popular dance, a reflection of the passion and energy of Colombian culture. A celebratory people who mark numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Among Colombia’s most famous celebrations: the Barranquilla Carnival, considered the second largest carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro.

Plan a Tailor-Made Trip to Colombia with Tierra Latina

Turn to Tierra Latina for an authentic Colombia experience and discover the best excursions, far from mass tourism!

Practical tips, recommendations, unmissable sites, top addresses, activities to try… We provide all the information you need to make the most of your stay in Colombia.

Highly flexible, we do everything possible to personalise your journey according to your interests, desires and budget. A team of passionate specialists is at your service to help you discover Colombia’s hidden gems and authentic experiences.

A Local Agency Attuned to Your Wishes

Tierra Latina, a specialist travel agency for South America, helps you create a tailor-made Colombia journey in your own image. Our team of experts gives you the best advice for a unique and personalised travel experience. All our services are tested and approved in advance by our local experts. On the ground, you are accompanied by French-speaking guides with deep knowledge of the region and the terrain, ensuring you discover the country in depth for a truly enriching and authentic experience.

Travelling Differently

Tierra Latina offers an immersive experience in Colombia, far from tourist traps: an authentic journey of discovery into local culture.

Meeting local people is at the heart of our vision of travel. We offer homestay nights to share an emotionally rich moment, exchange ideas, discover local traditions, taste traditional specialities and participate fully in local life. Human encounters that give real meaning to your journey.

A Responsible Local Agency

With Tierra Latina, you actively participate in your Colombia journey. You experience something authentic, personalised and responsible. Our agency helps support the local economy of the region, prioritising homestay accommodation, local craftsmanship and artisanal know-how to contribute to the economic development of the communities we visit.

Our local travel agency is committed to promoting responsible tourism by supporting sustainable development projects in the region. We advocate for respect for local communities and the preservation of biodiversity.

Our agency is also committed to greater social and environmental responsibility, implementing concrete measures to reduce our carbon footprint: eco-responsible homestays, eco-lodges built in harmony with nature, small-group wildlife safaris to minimise disturbance to animals in their natural habitat. Concrete actions contributing to sustainable and solidarity-based travel.

FAQ: Your Questions About Travelling to Colombia

Duration and Itinerary

How Long Do You Need to Visit Colombia?

A minimum of 10 to 12 days to discover the essentials (Bogotá, the coffee region, Cartagena). Ideally 15 days to fully enjoy the main regions without rushing. Within 3 weeks or more, you can explore less-visited destinations such as the Amazon, the Tatacoa Desert or the Pacific coast.

Colombia is twice the size of France: don’t underestimate the distances! If you have limited time, focus on one region rather than spreading yourself too thin.

What Are the Must-Sees in Colombia?

The flagship destinations not to miss:

Cartagena de Indias, colonial jewel of the Caribbean coast, with its colourful alleyways and flower-draped balconies
The Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero): Cocora Valley, traditional fincas, the village of Salento
Tayrona Park with wild, paradise beaches near Santa Marta
Bogotá: Andean capital with its Gold Museum and the historic Candelaria neighbourhood
Medellín, a transformed, innovative city; the famous Comuna 13
Guatapé, colourful pueblo and the celebrated Piedra del Peñol

At Tierra Latina, we adapt your Colombia itinerary to your preferences: culture, nature, adventure or relaxation.

When to Travel to Colombia

What Is the Best Time to Visit Colombia?

December to March is the ideal dry season, with optimal sunshine on the Caribbean coast and in the Andes. This is also the peak tourist season.

February to April offers an excellent compromise: fine weather with fewer tourists and more affordable prices.

April to November is the rainy season, though showers are often short and fall mainly in the afternoon. Some regions (such as Medellín, nicknamed ‘the city of eternal spring’) enjoy a pleasant climate year-round.

Note: the climate varies by region (warm coast, temperate Andes, humid Amazon). We advise according to your chosen destinations and travel dates.

Are There Events Not to Miss in Colombia?

Barranquilla Carnival (February/March): one of the most spectacular carnivals in the world
Feria de Cali (late December): the unmissable salsa festival
Holy Week in Popayán or Mompox (March/April): spectacular religious processions
Feria de las Flores in Medellín (August): magnificent flower parades

Budget and Cost of Living

What Budget Do You Need for a Trip to Colombia?

For a 15-day circuit organised by Tierra Latina:

Tailor-made private circuit: from €2,500 per person (international flights not included)
Small-group guided circuit: from €3,000 per person (international flights not included)

Included: selected accommodation, French-speaking guides, private transfers, breakfasts, excursions, 24/7 assistance.

On-the-ground budget (meals, tips, optional activities): allow €20–40 per person per day.

International flights: €600–900 from France (book 3–4 months in advance).

Colombia offers excellent value for money: restaurants are around 60% cheaper than in France, and accommodation around 50% less.

Is Colombia an Expensive Destination?

No. Colombia remains very affordable compared to Europe or North America. Some price benchmarks:

Local restaurant meal: €4–8
Quality restaurant meal: €12–20
Coffee: €1–2
Taxi/Uber in the city: €2–5
Local beer: €1.50–3

Activities are also accessible, with the exception of specific excursions. For example, the Ciudad Perdida trek costs around €250 for 4 days.

Formalities and Health

Do You Need a Visa for Colombia?

No. EU nationals do not need a visa for a tourist stay. On arrival, you receive a stay permit of up to 90 days (renewable once in-country).

Documents required:

Passport valid for 6 months beyond the return date
Return or onward flight ticket
Proof of accommodation (Tierra Latina provides all necessary documents)

Important: do not overstay the 90-day limit, penalties are significant.

Which Vaccines Are Required for Colombia?

No vaccine is mandatory to enter Colombia (except if travelling from Brazil or certain African countries).

Strongly recommended:

Yellow fever: mandatory for certain areas (Amazon, Tayrona Park, regions below 2,300m altitude). Must be administered at least 10 days before departure at an approved centre.
Hepatitis A and B
DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio): ensure vaccinations are up to date

Malaria: preventive treatment recommended for the Amazon and certain rural areas. Consult your doctor or an international vaccination centre. Tierra Latina will advise you precisely according to your itinerary.

Is Travel Insurance Necessary for Colombia?

Yes, strongly recommended to cover: medical expenses and hospitalisation, medical repatriation, trip cancellation, loss or theft of luggage. Tierra Latina advises on appropriate insurance and verifies your coverage before departure.

Altitude Risks in Colombia

Areas concerned: Bogotá (2,640m), Villa de Leyva (2,150m), certain Andean regions.

Symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche): headaches, nausea, fatigue, breathlessness, insomnia.

How to prevent it:

Stay very well hydrated (water, herbal teas)
Avoid alcohol for the first few days
Eat light, frequent meals
Rest on your first day of arrival
Ascend to altitude gradually if possible
Drink coca tea (an effective local remedy)

Tierra Latina designs itineraries that allow for progressive acclimatisation. Our guides are trained to recognise symptoms and advise accordingly.

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Colombia?

Theoretically yes in Bogotá and Medellín, but water quality varies by region. We recommend opting for bottled water (very inexpensive) or using a filter bottle. Avoid ice cubes in small restaurants.

In all accommodation selected by Tierra Latina, water is monitored and safe to drink.

Safety in Colombia

Is Colombia Safe for Tourists?

Yes, the security situation has improved enormously over the past 20 years. Tourist areas are safe and monitored. Millions of travellers visit Colombia every year without incident.

Common-sense advice:

Stay in tourist areas, especially at night
Do not display items of value (phones, jewellery)
Use Uber or official taxis rather than street taxis
Avoid walking alone in isolated neighbourhoods after dark
Keep copies of your important documents

Areas to avoid: certain border zones (Venezuela, Ecuador) and isolated rural regions. Tierra Latina designs secure itineraries and keeps you informed in real time.

Tierra Latina advantage: 24/7 assistance throughout your trip and reliable local partners.

Language and Communication

Do You Need to Speak Spanish to Travel in Colombia?

No, it is not required if you travel with Tierra Latina. All our circuits include French-speaking guides at every main stage.

A few basic Spanish words are always appreciated and make interactions easier:

Hola (hello)
Buenos días / Buenas tardes (good morning / good afternoon)
Gracias (thank you)
¿Cuánto cuesta? (how much does it cost?)
La cuenta, por favor (the bill, please)

Colombians are extremely warm and patient with foreign travellers. They often use affectionate nicknames such as ‘mi amor’ or ‘mi vida’ even with strangers: this is cultural, not flirtatious!

Transport in Colombia

How to Get Around Colombia?

Domestic flights: an excellent network with Avianca, LATAM and low-cost carriers. Practical for covering long distances quickly (Bogotá–Cartagena: 1h30 by plane vs 18h by bus).

With Tierra Latina, we organise all your transfers according to your circuit:

Private transfers with drivers between stages
Domestic flights to optimise your time
Private vehicle journeys for flexibility and comfort

We manage the logistics so you can focus entirely on enjoying your Colombia journey.

Can You Hire a Car in Colombia?

Car hire is possible but not recommended for a first trip:

Variable road conditions (especially in the mountains)
Limited signage
Sometimes chaotic driving in cities
Long, tiring distances

Transport arranged by Tierra Latina is safer, more comfortable and allows you to enjoy the landscapes stress-free.

Practical Aspects

What Is the Currency in Colombia? Can You Pay by Card?

The currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Approximate rate: €1 = 4,300 COP (variable).

Bank cards are accepted in major cities and quality hotels. Cards without foreign transaction fees are preferable. Cash is essential in small towns, markets and rural areas. Withdraw from bank ATMs or shopping centre machines (safer).

Tip: notify your bank before departure to avoid your card being blocked.

What Is the Time Difference Between Colombia and the UK?

GMT–5 year-round (Colombia does not observe daylight saving time).

In European winter: –5 hours (when it is 12:00 in the UK, it is 07:00 in Colombia)
In European summer: –6 hours (when it is 12:00 in France, it is 06:00 in Colombia)

What Type of Electrical Plugs Are Used in Colombia?

110V, Type A and B sockets (flat American-style pins). An adapter is required most appliances (220V). Check that your chargers accept 110–220V: most modern devices are dual-voltage compatible.

Family Travel

Is Colombia a Good Destination for Families with Children?

Absolutely! Colombia is an ideal family destination:

Advantages of Colombia for families:

Warm Colombian welcome towards children
Hugely varied activities: beaches, wildlife, nature, coffee farms
Quality tourist infrastructure
Food that children enjoy

Points to bear in mind:

Altitude: if your children are under 10, avoid spending extended time above 2,500m (Bogotá is at 2,640m). Allow one day for acclimatisation.
Distances: break up long journeys with intermediate stops
Activities: pace yourselves and favour less strenuous circuits

Tierra Latina designs tailor-made family trips with adapted itineraries, family-friendly accommodation and fun activities.

Honeymoon Travel

Is Colombia a Good Honeymoon Destination?

Yes, it is an excellent romantic destination! Colombia combines everything newlyweds dream of:

Paradise beaches: Tayrona, Rosario Islands, Palomino
Romantic cities: Cartagena with its cobbled streets and Caribbean sunsets
Authentic experiences: a stay on a coffee hacienda, candlelit dinners
Diversity: culture, adventure and relaxation in a single journey
Off the beaten track: an original destination that makes a change from the Maldives or Bali

Tierra Latina creates tailor-made honeymoon trips with romantic accommodation (charming haciendas, boutique hotels), private experiences and special personal touches.

Unique Experiences

Can I Visit a Coffee Plantation in Colombia?

Yes, this is an absolute must! The coffee region (Eje Cafetero) offers truly authentic experiences:

Staying on a finca cafetera: spending the night on a family hacienda
Guided plantation tours: understanding the full production process from bean to cup
Exceptional coffee tasting: discovering the aromas of Colombian coffee
Participating in the harvest (seasonal): picking coffee beans by hand

Tierra Latina selects family-run fincas for intimate, authentic experiences far from the tourist trail.

Can I Combine Colombia with Another Country?

Yes! Several excellent options:

Ecuador: Quito, Otavalo, the Galápagos Islands (2–3h flight from Bogotá)
Peru: Lima, Machu Picchu (2h30 flight)
Panama: Panama City, San Blas Islands (1h30 flight from Cartagena)

Tierra Latina, a Latin America specialist, organises multi-country circuits with optimised logistics and French-speaking guides throughout.

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