When is the best time to visit the Caribbean coast of Colombia?

The coast and islands are an all-year destination, with plenty of sun throughout. The rainy season is Aug-Nov when showers can be torrential. Dec-Apr should be pretty rain-free. The beaches can be very busy – and noisy – during holidays and festivals.

For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.

What language is spoken on the Caribbean coast of Colombia?

The main languages spoken on the Caribbean coast is Spanish and English.

What currency do I need on the Caribbean coast of Colombia?

The Peso is the main currency used on the Caribbean coast. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs in Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta using a UK credit or debit card, though you may have to advise your bank first and amounts that can be withdrawn may be lower than in the UK. Be aware that some ATMs are often out of service but there should be a working one nearby.  Banks will offer advances on a credit card, but with a lot of paperwork. Money exchanges (casas de cambio) change US dollars cash (very few accept euros or sterling and the rate will be poor). Don’t change money on the street. Acquire local currency before travelling to Providencia.

What is the time difference between the Caribbean coast of Colombia and the UK?

The time difference between the Caribbean coast and the UK is GMT -5 hours

What places combine well with the Caribbean coast of Colombia?

Colombia's most graceful and atmospheric cities, Cartagena; Bogotá, Colombia’s vigorous capital, where the dynamic of this mountain city contrasts with the laid back attitudes of the Caribbean (1.5hrs by air).

How do I get to the Caribbean coast of Colombia?

There are frequent flights from Bogotá to Cartagena, Santa Marta  and Barranquilla (each 1.5hrs). The three main cities on the coast are a couple of hours apart by road.  Santa Marta is the closest city to Tayrona, the beach and national park which is a 4hr drive from Cartagena. Combines with:  Colombia’s most graceful and atmospheric cities, Cartagena; Bogotá, Colombia’s vigorous capital, where the dynamic of this mountain city contrasts with the laid back attitudes of the Caribbean (1.5hrs by air). 

What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events on the Caribbean coast of Colombia?

Carnival: Barranquilla, 5 days in Feb/Mar, variable: 28 Feb–4 Mar 2014. A riotous mélange of Afro-Caribbean-Latin exuberance, with vivid-costumed parades, live music, dancing and competitions.

When is the best time to visit Colombia?

The country is an all-year destination. The highlands have a permanent spring-like climate. The Caribbean coast is mostly dry and hot with plenty of sun, at its driest Dec-Mar. The Amazon jungle is hot and humid all year. Beach resorts can be very crowded at weekends, national holidays and Dec-Feb.

For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.

What is the official language in Colombia?

The official language in Colombia is Spanish.

What is the official currency in Colombia?

The official currency of Colombia is the Peso. Notes can be withdrawn from ATMs in larger towns and cities using a UK credit or debit card, though you may have to advise your bank first and amounts that can be withdrawn may be lower than in the UK. Banks will offer advances on a credit card. Money exchanges (casas de cambio) change US dollars cash (very few accept euros or sterling and the rate will be poor).

What is the time difference between Colombia and UK?

The time difference between the UK and Colombia is GMT -5 hours.

Do I need a visa for Colombia?

Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.

What vaccinations do I need for Colombia?

Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.

What places combine well with Colombia?

A trip to Colombia combines brilliantly with many destinations in Central and South America, due to great flight connections from Bogota. Some of the most popular combinations include Peru, Ecuador and Panama.

What are the festivals, cultural and sport events in Colombia?

Hay Festival take place in January in Cartagena. An offshoot of the famous literary festival in Hay-on-Wye, it attracts Latin American and international writers and intellectuals of international renown.

Carnival takes place countrywide in Feb-Mar. The most famous and extravagant carnival takes place in the Caribbean city of Barranquilla, with frenetic dancing and parades of revellers wearing extravagant costumes.

Easter (Holy Week) is also celebrated countrywide in Mar-Apr: Many Colombians spend this week away at beaches and other popular destinations.

The Flower Fair takes place on Medellin in August. This is a sumptuous floral celebration with displays of artistic creativity.

International Jazz Festival happens in Bogota in September. World renowned artists will perform in front of thousands of jazz enthusiasts.