Main square of Villa de Leyva under a blue sky

Colombia Travel FAQ: Safety, Visa, Weather

Is Colombia safe to travel to?

Yes, with local knowledge and good planning. Colombia welcomes many international travellers every year, but the UK Foreign Office advises against travel to certain areas. We design every route according to that advice and our own team's knowledge of each region, and we review it before every departure.

Do I need a visa for Colombia?

British and EU citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days; the immigration officer confirms the length of stay on arrival. You need a passport valid for your whole stay (six months beyond departure is recommended) and an onward or return ticket. The free online Check-MIG form, completed between 72 hours and one hour before your flight, can speed up entry.

Do I need vaccinations for Colombia?

No vaccine is required to enter Colombia when you fly from the UK or Europe. A yellow fever certificate is required only if you arrive from Angola, Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda, or after more than 12 hours in transit there. Since the 2025 outbreak, yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travellers going to areas below 2,300 metres, and certificates may be checked when travelling within the country. It is not recommended if you only visit Bogotá, areas above 2,300 metres or San Andrés. Ask a travel health clinic at least four weeks before you leave.

Are international flights included?

No. Our proposals include everything from your arrival in Colombia to your departure: accommodation, transfers, guides, experiences and, when needed, domestic flights. We can advise you on the best routes from Europe.

Is Colombia safe for solo female travellers?

Many women travel in Colombia on their own every year. Travelling with a local operator adds a layer of support: private transfers, guides you can trust and a team you can call at any time. We also share practical advice for each city before you arrive.

When is the best time to visit Colombia?

Colombia can be visited all year: the climate depends more on altitude than on the season. In the Andes, including Boyacá, the drier months are usually December to March and July to August. We adapt each itinerary to the time of year you travel.

How many days do you need in Colombia?

Ten days are enough for two regions. Two weeks let you add the Caribbean coast, and three weeks allow a slower pace and less-visited regions.

Do you have English and French-speaking guides?

Yes. Our guides and tour leaders speak English, French and Spanish, and they work directly with Colombie Travel.

Will I feel the altitude?

Possibly, in the first days. Bogotá is at about 2,600 metres, Villa de Leyva at about 2,140 metres and the El Cocuy trails start above 4,000 metres. We plan gentle first days and acclimatisation before any high-altitude trek.

Should I tip in Colombia?

Tips are appreciated but never compulsory. Restaurants often suggest a 10% service charge that you can accept or decline. For guides and drivers, we share a reference in your travel documents.

How much does a trip to Colombia cost?

It depends on the length of the trip, the regions, the type of accommodation and the number of travellers. Tell us your dates and budget and we will send you a detailed proposal with a clear price.

Do you work with travel agencies and tour operators?

Yes. We are the DMC and ground handler for agencies in Europe and worldwide, with B2B rates, tailor-made programmes, groups, incentives and fam trips.

Is Colombie Travel a registered tour operator?

Yes. We are registered with Colombia's National Tourism Registry under RNT 124573 and are members of ANATO, the Colombian Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies, and of ACOTUR, the Colombian Association for Responsible Tourism.

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