Visa & Entry Requirements
We strongly recommend checking whether your nationality requires a visa to enter Colombia. Visa requirements vary depending on nationality and the purpose of your visit.
Check-Mig
Migración Colombia recommends completing the Check-Mig pre-registration form between 72 hours and one hour before traveling to or from Colombia. Check-Mig allows travelers to provide their travel information in advance and helps streamline the immigration process. Completing it is optional but recommended.
Getting to and around Bogotá
From El Dorado International Airport
- Authorized airport taxis. Use the official taxi service at the airport. Follow the signs to authorized pickup points outside the terminal and avoid accepting rides from individuals approaching passengers inside the arrivals area.
- Hotel transfer. Before traveling, check whether your hotel provides an airport shuttle or can arrange a private transfer.
- Ride-hailing apps. Uber and Cabify operate in Bogotá. Follow the pickup instructions in the app and always verify the driver's name and vehicle license plate before getting in.
Around the city
When moving around Bogotá, request transportation through a ride-hailing app (Uber, Cabify), your hotel, restaurant or another trusted establishment instead of hailing a taxi on the street. Always verify the driver's name, vehicle model and license plate before getting in.
Bike sharing
Bogotá has an extensive cycling network and a public bike-sharing service operated by Tembici. Bikes can be rented through the Tembici mobile app, which shows available bicycles, stations and rental plans.
Language
Spanish is the official language of Colombia. English is spoken in many hotels, airports and tourism-related services in Bogotá, but proficiency varies throughout the city.
Having a translation app on your phone can be useful, particularly when using local transportation, visiting markets or exploring areas outside the main tourist districts.
Currency and Payments
The official currency is the Colombian peso (COP). Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and shopping centers, but carrying some cash is useful for local markets and smaller establishments.
Use ATMs located inside banks, shopping centers or airports when possible. Avoid exchanging money on the street — use banks or authorized currency exchange offices at airports and hotels instead.
When paying by card, if offered the choice between your home currency and Colombian pesos, selecting COP is generally recommended to avoid unfavorable conversion rates at the terminal.
Electricity
Colombia uses 110 V / 60 Hz. Outlets use Type A and Type B plugs — the same as in the United States and Canada. Travelers from other regions should bring a universal travel adapter.
Most modern laptop and smartphone chargers support 100–240 V, but check the label on your charger before traveling.
Weather in December
Mornings and evenings can be considerably cooler than midday. Rain is still possible in December, although it generally decreases as the month progresses. Bogotá's weather changes quickly, so dressing in layers and bringing a light waterproof jacket or umbrella is recommended.
Sunscreen is also advisable because of the city's altitude and UV exposure.
Visitors going to Monserrate should bring warmer clothing — the summit is at approximately 3,152 m (10,340 ft) and noticeably colder than the city below.
Altitude Adjustment
At approximately 2,640 meters above sea level, some visitors may initially notice mild effects such as fatigue, shortness of breath or headache. During your first day, stay hydrated, get enough rest and avoid strenuous physical activity while your body adjusts.
If you have a medical condition that could be affected by altitude, consult your healthcare provider before traveling.
Tourism Information
Visit Bogotá is the official tourism portal of the city and includes information about attractions, cultural activities, gastronomy, events and tourist routes.
Colombia Travel is the country's official international tourism portal, managed by ProColombia, and covers other destinations across Colombia.
Health Recommendations
Before traveling, consult your healthcare provider to check whether any health recommendations apply to your itinerary. For stays limited to urban Bogotá, tropical-disease vaccinations are generally not required. However, if you plan to travel to tropical, jungle or rural areas of Colombia, recommendations may differ — in particular, yellow fever vaccination may be advised.
Travel medical insurance is strongly recommended, particularly insurance covering medical care, hospitalization and emergencies.
If you take prescription medication, bring enough for your entire stay in its original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription.