Colombia is a land of contrasts, where you can find modern cities and traditional villages, world-class beaches and dense rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and scorching deserts. It’s a country of passionate people who love to dance, sing, and enjoy life.
If you’re thinking of traveling to Colombia, here are some things you should know about living like a local.
The first thing you’ll notice is that Colombians are extremely friendly and welcoming. They love to meet new people and will go out of their way to help you feel at home.
One of the best ways to experience Colombian culture is through its food. From arepas (corn cakes) and empanadas (fried pastries) to ceviche (raw fish cooked in citrus juice) and lechona (roast pork), there’s something for every palate.
Don’t already know how to speak Spanish? No worries… Colombia is also a great place to learn Spanish. The local dialect is very clear and easy to understand, and there are plenty of language schools and programs available.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, you can find everything from typical hostels to luxurious apartments and villas. Just be sure to do your research in advance so you know what to expect.
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of hostels and budget hotels available. For a more authentic experience, you can also rent a room in a Colombian family’s home.
If you’re looking for something more upscale, there are plenty of options available, including apartments, villas, and even Airbnb’s.
Transportation
Getting around Colombia is relatively easy, and there are a variety of transportation options available.
The most popular way to get around is by bus. Bus travel is relatively cheap and there are routes to almost everywhere in the country.
Another option is to fly. Colombia has a number of domestic airlines that offer flights to major cities and tourist destinations.
If you’re traveling to remote areas or planning to do a lot of hiking, you may want to consider renting a car and driver be aware that driving in Colombia can be risky, so it’s best to leave the driving to local expert drivers if possible.
Activities
There are endless things to do in Colombia, from exploring its vibrant cities to hiking through its stunning landscapes.
Some of the most popular activities include visiting the coffee plantations in the Zona Cafeteria, exploring the colonial city of Cartagena, and going on a jungle safari in the Amazon.
No matter what you decide to do, you’re sure to have an incredible experience living like a local in Colombia.
Suggested Itinerary for an authentic experience
- Arrive in Bogotá and check into your accommodation.
- Spend a day exploring the city, including visiting the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum.
- Take a day trip to Zipaquirá to see the Salt Cathedral.
- Spend a day in the Zona Cafeteria visiting coffee plantations and learning about the production process.
- Head to Cartagena for a few days and explore the city’s colonial architecture and stunning beaches.
- Make your way to the Amazon jungle and go on a safari to see the wildlife and plants.
- Return to Bogotá and fly home
