Currency in Columbia

Colombia is a country located in South America, known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm-hearted people. It is bordered by Venezuela to the east, Brazil to the south, Peru and Ecuador to the west, and the Pacific and Caribbean oceans to the north. The capital city is Bogotá, and it is the largest and most populous city in the country.

For travelers, Colombia offers a wide range of experiences, from its colonial and modern architecture, to its natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the historic city of Cartagena, the coffee region, known for its colonial architecture, coffee plantations, and scenic countryside, and the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, known for their beautiful beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life.

What currency to use in Colombia?

The official currency used in Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). However, it's important to note that using US dollars is widely accepted in Colombia, and you can use US dollars to pay for goods and services, but you will have to pay an extra fee for the currency exchange, and the price might be higher than paying in pesos. For example, in a restaurant, the menu will have the prices in pesos and US dollars, but the price in pesos will be lower.

It's a good idea to always have some cash on hand, especially when traveling to remote areas where credit cards might not be accepted. And also, in some places, the card machine might be out of order.

When it comes to exchanging currency, you can exchange currency at banks, authorized money exchange offices and some hotels. As in any other country, it's important to be aware of the exchange rate and the fees, so make sure to shop around for the best deal.

As for ATMs, they are widely available in most cities, towns and tourist areas. Be aware that credit cards from certain countries may not be accepted in some ATMs and it's always a good idea to have a backup method of payment.

Top things to do in Colombia.

Colombia is a country that offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. Here are some top things to do in Colombia:

1. Explore Bogotá: The capital city of Bogotá is known for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and excellent museums and art galleries, such as the Gold Museum, the Botero Museum, and the Museum of the National University of Colombia.

2. Visit Cartagena: This historic coastal city is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious seafood. Visitors can explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a boat tour of the nearby Rosario Islands.

3. Visit the coffee region: The coffee region, located in the Andean mountain range, is known for its scenic countryside, colonial architecture, and, of course, its delicious coffee. Visitors can tour coffee plantations and learn about the history and process of coffee production.

4. Explore the Caribbean coast: Colombia's Caribbean coast is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour to spot dolphins and manatees, go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the coral reefs, or just relax on the beach.

5. Visit the Pacific coast: The Pacific coast of Colombia is an undiscovered gem, home to beautiful beaches, national parks, and rich indigenous cultures. Visitors can explore the colorful local markets, hike in the rainforest, or take a boat tour to see the humpback whales.

6. Visit the Salt Cathedral: This underground salt mine is located in the town of Zipaquirá, about 50 km north

Is Columbia Safe?

Colombia is a country that has seen a significant improvement in safety and stability in recent years, but it's still considered to have some security risks for travelers and expats.

There have been marked improvements in the security situation throughout the country over the past few years, with a reduction in crime and violence. However, certain regions, particularly those bordering Venezuela, continue to experience high levels of crime and violence. It's important to stay informed about the security situation, especially if you are planning to visit these areas.

Drug-related violence and organized crime still exist in some parts of the country and it's important to be aware of the risks and take the necessary precautions. Also, it's advisable to keep away from the border areas with Venezuela and Ecuador, as there is ongoing instability and criminal activity in those areas.

In general, the big cities such as Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena, have a relatively low crime rate and are considered safer than smaller towns and rural areas. Travelers and expats should take the same precautions as they would in any other big city, such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and being careful with valuables.

It's also important to be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as markets, buses, and airports.

Overall, while Colombia has come a long way in improving safety and stability, travelers and expats should still exercise caution and stay informed about the current security situation in the areas they plan to visit or live.