Holidays to Colombia: Tips for Traveling from the United Kingdom

What if we told you that you could be sipping coffee in the mountains of Colombia in less than 12 hours?

Yes, it sounds like a dream... but it's totally possible. If you're in the UK and dream of exploring Caribbean beaches, tropical jungles, colourful cities and warm people, Colombia is a destination that has it all.

Now, before you pack your hat and sunscreen, you need some very practical tips. Here we give you all the information you need to plan your holiday to Colombia from the UK, stress-free and with everything under control.

✈️ Flights from the UK to Colombia

There are no direct flights from London to all destinations in Colombia, but there are direct flights to Bogotá, the capital, with airlines such as Avianca and British Airways (depending on the season).

Common options:

• London (Heathrow) - Bogotá: Direct flight (11-12 hours)

• With stopovers via Madrid, Amsterdam or Miami (depending on the airline)

💡 Tip: If you're travelling with children, book night flights. They'll sleep for most of the journey.

🛂 Do I need a visa to enter Colombia from the UK?

Good news: you don't need a visa if you're travelling for tourism and staying up to 90 days. You only need:

• Passport with at least 6 months validity

• Exit ticket from the country (return flight or to another destination)

• Proof of accommodation or invitation letter

✳️ Important: Upon arrival, the immigration officer may ask you how long you plan to stay and where you will be staying.

🧒👶 Travelling with children? This is for you

Travelling with children to Colombia can be a wonderful experience if you prepare well.

Key tips:

• Bring high-protection sunscreen. The tropical sun is strong.

• Make sure they have all their vaccinations up to date.

• Don't drink tap water. Use bottled water for everyone, including the little ones.

• Look for family-friendly accommodations with entertainment options or swimming pools.

💡 Fact: Many hotels in Colombia are "kid-friendly" and some even offer activities for the little ones.

🐾 Travelling with pets? It's also possible

More and more people are travelling with their dogs or cats, and Colombia is no exception. But, beware, there are some requirements:

Required documents:

• Veterinary health certificate (issued no more than 10 days before travel)

• Vaccination card (especially against rabies)

• DEFRA certificate (if travelling from the UK)

Before travelling, check with the airline about specific rules for pets. Some allow animals in the cabin if they are small.

💡 Tip: Check in advance if your accommodation accepts pets. You can filter for this on Booking or Airbnb.

💸 How much does it cost to travel to Colombia?

Colombia is relatively cheap compared to the UK, but it's always good to have a budget.

Basic estimate per day (per person):

• Accommodation: £20-£50

• Food: £10-£20

• Transport: £5-£10

• Admissions and activities: £10

🔐 Safety: Is Colombia a safe country?

Colombia has improved a lot in terms of safety, but you still need to be cautious, like in any destination.

Recommendations:

• Don't show off valuable items (expensive mobiles, jewellery, watches)

• Use official taxis or apps like Uber or DiDi

• Avoid conflictive or poorly lit neighbourhoods at night

• Inform someone about your movements if you're travelling alone

💡 Bonus: Always ask at your hotel which areas are most recommended to visit and which to avoid.

🌦️ When is the best time to travel to Colombia?

Colombia has a tropical climate and, being close to the Equator, there are no seasons like in the UK.

Best months:

• December to March (dry season)

• July and August (less rain)

But if you want to avoid crowds, consider May or September.

🌍 What places to visit?

Here's a basic list for all tastes:

• Bogotá: Culture, museums and mountain (Monserrate Hill)

• Cartagena: Colonial city with Caribbean beaches

• Medellín: Modern, safe city full of life

• Coffee Axis: Nature, coffee, picturesque villages

• Santa Marta and Tayrona: Paradise beaches and jungle

👉 And if you want to go a step further... Below we leave you other travel guides that we have prepared with love so that you can enjoy your adventure in Colombia even more.

🧳 What to pack for your trip

• Light and fresh clothes

• Comfortable shoes for walking

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Universal adapter (plugs in Colombia are type A and B)

• Some warm clothing for Bogotá or high areas

❓Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need vaccines to travel to Colombia?

  They are not mandatory for British tourists, but the yellow fever vaccine is recommended if you plan to visit Amazonian areas. We tell you more about this topic here

• Is it easy to get WiFi?

  Yes, most hotels, cafes and shopping centres have free WiFi. You can also buy a local SIM card with data.

• Can I pay with a card?

  In big cities, yes. But in small towns or beaches, carry cash.

• What language is spoken?

  Spanish. Although in tourist areas you can find people who speak basic English.

📌 Last tips before flying

• Install useful apps like Google Translate, Maps and XE Currency

• Bring healthy snacks for long flights

• Have a digital copy of your important documents

• Always carry some cash for emergencies

Thank you for reading our guide to travelling to Colombia, we hope it helps you plan your adventure.
Travelling from the UK may seem complicated, but with these tips everything flows better.
Enjoy every step of the way and... see you on the next adventure, Mochiliante! 🌍✈️