Colombia in a Nutshell: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip
- Michael Gold
- Aug 4
- 4 min read
Our Travel Guide for Explorers, Food Lovers and Nature Enthusiasts
Colombia – a country that lies not only geographically at the intersection of the Caribbean, the Andes and the Amazon, but also emotionally at the heart of everyone who visits it. Whether vibrant cities, remote rainforests, culinary discoveries or historical cultural treasures: Colombia enchants.
In this blog post, we show what makes Colombia so unique – and how you can experience this diverse country consciously, safely and with all your senses.
Natural Wonders Between Two Oceans
Colombia is considered one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth – despite its relatively small size. Here, the Pacific rainforest meets the Caribbean coast, snow-covered mountains meet tropical lowlands, barren deserts meet dense jungles.
This not only makes the country visually spectacular, but also an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventurers and those seeking peace.
And: Colombia doesn’t have traditional seasons – instead, altitude determines the climate:
Lowlands (below 1,000 m / 3,280 ft): hot, tropical (24–35 °C / 75–95 °F)
Mid-altitudes (1,000–2,000 m): pleasantly mild (17–24 °C / 63–75 °F)
Highlands (2,000–3,000 m): fresh and cool (12–17 °C / 53–63 °F)
High mountains (above 4,000 m): cold to frosty (down to -10 °C / 14 °F)
This diversity allows for completely different travel experiences – sometimes even within a single day.
Regional Diversity: Many Faces of Colombia
Traveling through Colombia means traveling through different worlds:
Andean Region: Cities like Bogotá, Medellín or Popayán combine colonial architecture, modern culture and fresh climate.
Caribbean Coast: Dreamy beaches, indigenous roots (e.g. the Wayuu in La Guajira), colonial cities like Cartagena.
Pacific Coast: Untouched nature, whale watching, Afro-Colombian traditions.
Amazon & Orinoquía: Horseback riding through savannas, boat tours on jungle rivers, exotic wildlife.
Whether hiking, beach days, birdwatching, cultural exploration or culinary tours – the choice is yours.
People & Culture: A Country with Heart
Colombia is a country of connection: around 53 million people, over 60 indigenous languages, vibrant music and festival culture, deep-rooted spirituality and admirable hospitality.
Most Colombians identify as Catholic, but freedom of religion is a constitutionally protected right.
What stands out most is the zest for life: music, dancing, strong family ties and the famous Colombian smile are part of everyday life – and often what travelers remember most vividly.
Culinary Richness: From Arepas to Encocado
Colombia is a paradise for food lovers – not because of haute cuisine, but because of regional authenticity.
Typical Dishes:
Arepa: A maize flatbread that is a national symbol – with over 70 variations.
Bandeja Paisa: A hearty plate with ground beef, beans, fried egg, chicharrón, avocado, rice and arepa.
Ajiaco & Sancocho: Rich and flavorful stews.
Encocado: Seafood in coconut milk from the Pacific region.
Rondón: Fish and coconut soup from San Andrés.
Grilled guinea pig (Cuy): Served on festive occasions in southern Colombia.
Snacks & Drinks:
Empanadas, Patacones, Pandebonos, Achiras – each region has its street food stars.
Fruit juices: Mango, lulo, soursop & more – fresh-pressed almost everywhere.
Tinto: Colombian-style black coffee, often sweetened with raw cane sugar.
Viche, Aguardiente, Chicha: Traditional alcoholic beverages with cultural depth.
Practical Travel Tips
Entry: For most tourist visits, no visa is required (e.g. for EU citizens, Swiss nationals, North Americans). The maximum stay is 180 days per calendar year.
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities – in rural areas, cash is essential.
Health: Vaccines are recommended, especially for yellow fever (for travel to the Amazon, Tayrona or Orinoquía), as well as hepatitis, tetanus and malaria. Medical care in urban areas is generally very good.
Transport:
Domestic flights are fast and reliable.
Long-distance buses are cheap but slow.
We generally do not recommend rental cars.
In cities: private transfers, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify.
Packing List: Breathable clothing, sun and rain protection, mosquito repellent, copies of travel documents, headlamp, travel medicine kit, camera – plus hiking shoes or swimwear depending on your route.
Safety: Stay Aware, Stay Relaxed
Colombia is now a safe travel destination – with a small mantra nearly every local knows: "No dar papaya", which loosely means: "Don’t make yourself an easy target."
In other words:
Don’t show valuables in public
Don’t leave bags unattended
Avoid dark, deserted areas at night
Be mindful in public transport
Always follow the advice of your local guides
With common sense, openness and respect, nothing stands in the way of an unforgettable journey.
Why Travel with Chaska Tours?
At Chaska Tours, we have been organizing sustainable, personalized trips off the beaten path for over 20 years – with passion and professionalism.
Our strengths:
Bilingual guides (incl. German, English, Italian, French, Portuguese, etc.)
Small groups & custom-designed routes
Strong cooperation with local communities
Fair, respectful tourism
Support for nature reserves & social projects (e.g. the Magdalena Music School)
TourCert certification for sustainable tourism
The name Chaska comes from Quechua and means “bright star.” That’s what we strive to be for our travelers – a guiding light on their journey through Colombia.
Ready to Discover Colombia?
Get in touch – we’re happy to advise you personally, honestly and with passion.
📞 +57 318 393 1897
Final Thoughts
Colombia is not just a destination. It’s an experience, a discovery, a feeling. Those who open themselves up to it not only take home memories – they also leave a piece of their heart behind.
Colombia is waiting for you. Are you ready?
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