Essential Travel Tips for First-Timers in Colombia

Before you go

Colombia is bigger and more varied than most first-timers expect: cold high-altitude Bogota (2,640 m), steamy coastal Cartagena, and the eternal spring of Medellin. Pack for all three. A little planning around power, language, and connectivity goes a long way.

Plugs and voltage

Colombia uses 120 V at 60 Hz with Type A and Type B plugs (the same flat-pin plugs as the US and Canada). If you're coming from Europe, the UK, or Australia, bring a plug adapter. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (check the label for 100-240 V), but hair dryers and straighteners from 230 V countries will need a converter, not just an adapter.

Language basics

Spanish is the language everywhere, and English is limited outside tourist zones and upscale hotels. Colombian Spanish is famously clear and friendly. A few phrases earn warm smiles:

• Buenos dias / buenas tardes — good morning / good afternoon
• Por favor / gracias — please / thank you
• Cuanto cuesta? — how much is it?
• La cuenta, por favor — the bill, please
• A la orden — you'll hear this constantly; it means "at your service"

What to pack

• Layers: a light fleece or jacket for Bogota evenings, lightweight cottons for the coast
• Rain jacket or compact umbrella — showers are frequent year-round
• Comfortable walking shoes for cobbled old towns
• Sunscreen and a refillable water bottle
• A small day bag that zips, worn in front in crowded areas

Staying connected

Wi-Fi is common in cafes and hotels but can be slow and patchy. For maps, ride-hailing, and translation on the move, mobile data is essential. Buying a local SIM means queues and showing your passport; an eSIM activates before you land.

Quick tips

• Cash is king for small purchases; carry pesos and break large bills early
• Use DiDi, Uber, or Cabify rather than hailing taxis on the street
• Tap water is safe in Bogota and Medellin; stick to bottled on the coast
• "No dar papaya" is the local motto: don't flash valuables or invite trouble
• Altitude in Bogota can leave you breathless — take day one slowly
• Tip around 10% in restaurants; it's often added as "servicio voluntario"
• Carry your passport or a clear photo of it; police checks happen
• Avoid unlicensed money changers; use ATMs inside banks

Stay connected in Colombia

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online from the moment you land, so maps, translation, and bookings just work without surprise roaming charges.