Is it safe to travel in Colombia?

Major tourist cities are generally safe with normal precautions. Stick to well-traveled areas, don't flash valuables, use official taxis or Uber, and avoid walking alone at night. The security situation has improved dramatically in the past decade.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Basic Spanish helps enormously. English is limited outside tourist zones and upscale hotels. Download Google Translate offline and learn key phrases. Colombians are patient and helpful with travelers attempting Spanish.

What's the altitude situation?

Bogotá sits at 2,640m (8,661ft) - expect mild altitude effects like shortness of breath. Drink water, avoid alcohol the first day, and take it easy. Medellín (1,495m) and Cartagena (sea level) won't cause issues.

How to Spend a Week in Colombia

Seven days gives you time to hit Colombia's highlights: 2 days in Bogotá for culture and history, 2 days in Cartagena for colonial charm and Caribbean vibes, and 3 days in Medellín for innovation and nightlife. Budget $50-80 per day including accommodation, meals, and transport.

Days 1-2: Start in Bogotá. Fly into El Dorado International Airport. Stay in La Candelaria or Zona Rosa. Day 1: explore the historic center, Gold Museum ($3 entry), and take the cable car up Monserrate ($10 round trip). Day 2: visit Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral (day trip, $15 for transport + $20 entry) or explore the trendy neighborhoods of Chapinero and Zona T.
Day 3: Travel to Cartagena. Take a morning flight from Bogotá to Cartagena (1.5 hours, $60-120). Check into accommodation in the Old City or Getsemaní. Spend the afternoon walking the city walls and exploring the colonial streets. Evening drinks in Plaza de la Trinidad in Getsemaní.
Day 4: Full day in Cartagena. Morning: visit Castillo San Felipe fortress ($8 entry). Afternoon: take a day trip to Rosario Islands ($25 boat ride + $15 island entry) or relax at Bocagrande beach. Evening: dinner in the Old City and salsa dancing.
Day 5: Travel to Medellín. Morning flight from Cartagena to Medellín (1 hour, $60-100). Take the metro from airport to city center ($1). Stay in El Poblado or Laureles. Afternoon: ride the metrocable to Comuna 13 for the graffiti tour ($5 including guide).
Days 6-7: Explore Medellín and surroundings. Day 6: visit downtown Medellín - Botero Plaza (free), Museum of Antioquia ($4), and the innovative public spaces. Take the metrocable to Parque Arví ($3). Day 7: day trip to Guatapé - climb El Peñón rock ($5 entry) and explore the colorful town. Return flight from José María Córdova International Airport.

Is it safe to travel in Colombia?: Major tourist cities are generally safe with normal precautions. Stick to well-traveled areas, don't flash valuables, use official taxis or Uber, and avoid walking alone at night. The security situation has improved dramatically in the past decade.
Do I need to speak Spanish?: Basic Spanish helps enormously. English is limited outside tourist zones and upscale hotels. Download Google Translate offline and learn key phrases. Colombians are patient and helpful with travelers attempting Spanish.
What's the altitude situation?: Bogotá sits at 2,640m (8,661ft) - expect mild altitude effects like shortness of breath. Drink water, avoid alcohol the first day, and take it easy. Medellín (1,495m) and Cartagena (sea level) won't cause issues.