Last Updated: December 2024
Let me be honest with you—I loved Colombia so much that I could see myself living there. It’s a large country of vibrant contrasts, where colonial streets meet wild jungles, and bustling cities are just a stone’s throw from the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. With its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and affordability, Colombia is a destination that attracts to every type of traveler, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. Or someone like me – who likes a little bit of both.
During my time there, I fell in love with the people. I joked with a tour guide that many Colombian’s don’t appear very friendly as first (possibly a bad case of RBF), but as soon as you talk to them they are some of the warmest people I’ve come across. Not only the people but the colorful cities – large and small – in contrast with the breathtaking scenery of the mountains and the coast are truly unique. And the food – WOW. Below I;ll share with you what to try while you’re there but to be honest, try it all. The food is amazing, some of the best and most diverse food of any country I’ve been to. So, whether you’re chasing waterfalls in the jungle, wandering through cobblestone streets, or sipping world-renowned artisan coffee in the Coffee Triangle, Colombia has something for everyone. Despite its turbulent past, the country has blossomed into a welcoming and thriving destination, where visitors are embraced with open arms.
I spent 3-weeks in Colombia and could have easily spent much longer there. This time, I didn’t travel solo, I wen’t with my partner at the time. However, as a frequent solo female traveler, I would feel comfortable exploring Colombia’s popular tourist destinations on my own. As always, make sure to check out my page on Traveling as a Solo Female to determine if it’s right for you. Overall though, something that helped me immensely was knowing a little bit of Spanish. I didn’t do much research on Colombia before visiting and didn’t realize that hardly anyone there spoke English – even in the major tourist destinations. With that said, it’s worth knowing a bit of Spanish, as it can make your experience run much smoother. Being able to communicate even the basics will open up doors to some more authentic connections.
Colombia’s endless charm goes beyond its natural beauty and culture—it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits. From weather tips to detailed itineraries, highlights of the countries food scene, safety advice, and historical insights, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know for your trip. Whether you’re staying a week or a month, this magical country will have you dreaming of your next visit before you’ve even left.
→ W E A T H E R
Colombia, being a tropical country near the equator, enjoys relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. However, its climate varies significantly by region due to differences in elevation. Coastal areas, like Cartagena and the Caribbean coast, tend to be hot and humid, offering warm tropical weather year-round. In contrast, the higher-altitude regions, such as Bogotá and parts of the Andes, experience cooler, more temperate conditions. With that said, it’s possible you’ll need to prepare your suitcase for a variety of weather.
Rather than having the traditional four seasons, Colombia’s weather is defined by two distinct periods: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season typically runs from December – March and July – August, making these months ideal for travel with clear skies and minimal rainfall. The wet season spans April – June and September – November, with frequent showers, particularly in mountainous regions. Now I don’t want to tell you what to do, but I would highly recommend going during the dry season. However, I’ve compiled a detailed weather list that should help you no matter when you decide to visit this beautiful South American country.
→ F O O D
One of the things that made Colombia one of my favorite countries is hands down, the food. Each region of Colombia offers unique flavors that reflect its local culture and ingredients. It was a lovely experience to taste how the cuisine shifts as you move from the highlands of the Andes to the sunny shores of the Caribbean coast. I found myself wanting to try something new every day – there was always something to try.
In the Andean region, where the temperatures are cooler and the altitude higher, hearty dishes dominate. You’ll find ajiaco, a rich chicken and potato soup that’s perfect for warming up in the mountain air – an can be found on essential every corner, and bandeja paisa, a massive platter filled with rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, and avocado—a classic dish most prominently found in Medellin. And in the Coffee Triangle, you can’t miss sampling freshly brewed Colombian coffee (I did, at multiple locations, hehe). The arepas, oh the arepas, I ate so many I basically turned into one. These amazing little corn cakes are often stuffed with cheese or meats, are a common snack that you’ll find throughout the entire country. They are also inexpensive and offer a quick snack or even a decent street lunch.
As you head toward the Caribbean coast, the dishes are packed with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and coconut-based ingredients. In cities like Cartagena and Santa Marta, ceviche is a popular choice. You’ll also find arroz con coco (coconut rice), an amazing sweet and savory staple. Street foods, like arepa de huevo (an arepa stuffed with an egg and fried) and patacones (twice-fried green plantains) are a staple. And my personal favorite drink, limonada de coco, a refreshing coconut lemonade that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day. As for alcohol, Colombia has a multitude of craft beers or aguardiente, Colombia’s national alcoholic drink. Beware, it is a strong anise-flavored liquor, so if you’re not a black licorice fan, might want to steer clear of this one. Although, when in Colombia! Let’s be real, you have to try it anyway.
→ H I S T O R Y
Colombia’s history is as vibrant and complex as its landscapes, shaped by Indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and a journey of resilience. Before the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, advanced civilizations like the Muisca and Tayrona thrived, leaving behind gold artifacts that inspired the myth of El Dorado and sacred sites in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Spanish colonization transformed the region, making Colombia a key hub for trade and a critical colony for the empire. Cartagena, with its impressive stone fortifications, became a vital port and a target for pirate attacks—a history visitors can explore today. Independence came in 1819 under Simón Bolívar’s leadership, but the country faced decades of political instability and civil conflict. In the 20th century, Colombia endured the dark era of drug cartels, with figures like Pablo Escobar turning cities into battlegrounds. Despite the turmoil, the late 1990s marked the start of a remarkable transformation.
Medellín, once one of the world’s most dangerous cities, is now celebrated for its urban renewal projects, transforming its history into a story of progress.
Colombia’s historical richness extends beyond its cities. Colombia’s past has not been without struggle, but its story is one of reinvention and hope. Visiting Colombia means uncovering a country that has overcome challenges to showcase its beauty, culture, and resilience—a history woven into every experience you’ll have.
→ S A F E T Y
Colombia has come a long way in terms of safety and is now a thriving, must-visit destination for travelers. Once notorious for its past during the era of Pablo Escobar, Colombia has shed its unkind reputation and emerged as a vibrant country. Like anywhere, there are areas that tourists should be cautious about, particularly regions near the Venezuelan border and a few remote rural areas are generally best avoided. For those considering venturing off the beaten path, it’s a good idea to check local travel advisories and stay informed about specific regions.
That said, the majority of Colombia’s popular tourist destinations—such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Cali, the Coffee Triangle, and the Caribbean coast—are safe and welcoming. These areas are well-patrolled, have a strong presence of tourism, and are known for their warm, hospitable locals. With any destination, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings. Simple precautions like keeping valuables secure, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and using reliable transportation (like Uber or official taxis) go a long way in ensuring a safer experience.
Although this was not part of my many solo endeavors, I met plenty of other solo female travelers during my time there who said they felt safe navigating the cities and tourist hotspots. As always, being mindful of your surroundings is key, but the open and welcoming spirit of Colombia shines through, making it a fantastic place to travel alone or with a friend. If you are unfamiliar with traveling solo as woman, please refer to my page on Solo Female Travel.
While Colombia may still have areas to avoid, the main tourist regions are safe and enjoyable for all types of travelers. The vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and incredible warmth of the people make Colombia a truly unforgettable destination—one that I felt completely comfortable exploring. Just remember to take basic precautions, as you would anywhere else in the world.
