Living in Colombia: The Complete Guide
Colombia, the shining star of Latin American countries, goes beyond the drug cartel stories of the 1980-’90s and fascinates tourists who visit the country. This country, which encompasses parts of the Amazon Forest, Andes Mountains, Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea, is the second country with the highest biodiversity in the world and is home to the highest number of bird species.
The Colombian people are full of beans when it comes to welcoming outsiders! They will greet you with music, dance, and their unique Latin American cuisine. Festivals are an important aspect of the culture, and they are held in almost every city and town.
Why You Should Live in Colombia
People are increasingly considering living in Colombia, as the country has a growing population of expats and digital nomads. American startup companies, in particular, tend to move their offices to Colombia, given the tax and economic advantages. This trend contributes to the country’s economy, attracting foreign financing and a foreign expat audience.
In addition to all these, the Colombian state is trying to develop the country in touristic and cultural terms by destroying the image of an ‘unsafe cartel country’. In this respect, this country, with its fabulous Latin American and Caribbean culture, world-renowned coffee, and warm people, is now considered an exciting destination for living.
If you are considering relocating to or visiting Colombia as an expat, you can join various groups and forums where Colombia expats gather to learn from others’ experiences.
Pros and Cons of Living in Colombia
Pros of Living in Colombia
- Affordable Living: Compared to many other countries, Colombia offers an affordable standard of living.
- Natural Beauty: Colombia's unique landscapes, including the Andes, the Amazon jungle, and the Caribbean coast, offer various opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventures.
- Cultural Diversity: Colombia's rich cultural heritage comes from the combination of European, African, Caribbean, and indigenous customs.
- Warm and Friendly People: Colombians are renowned for their warmth and friendliness, which makes visitors quickly feel at home.
- Delicious Food: Colombian food is tasty and varied, including empanadas, arepas, and bandeja paisa, to mention a few.
- Lively Nightlife: Whatever your taste in nightlife—from dancing to salsa music to sipping drinks at hip bars—Colombia has plenty to offer everyone.
Cons of Living in Colombia
- Safety Concerns: Although the crime rates in Colombia are high, security measures in the country are increasing day by day. However, it's important to take precautions if you are visiting the country as a tourist. We recommend that you avoid accepting food or drink from strangers and do not travel alone, especially at night.
- Bureaucracy: Dealing with government bureaucracy and paperwork in Colombia can be frustrating and time-consuming.
- Traffic Congestion: In Colombia, traffic flows on the right. The average speed limit within cities is 50 km/h. Heavy traffic problems may occur in cities such as Bogotá and Medellín.
- Limited English: Spanish is Colombia's native language. If you speak Spanish, you will not have communication problems. However, if you do not speak Spanish, you may encounter communication issues due to the low prevalence of English speakers.
- Unpredictable Weather: Colombia is a country with a tropical climate. The tropical climate means sudden changes in weather conditions and unexpected rains, which can be inconvenient if unprepared.
Cost of Living in Colombia
As one might expect, life in Colombia is much more affordable compared to European Countries, the United States, Australia, and Canada. Research indicates that the cost of living in Colombia is approximately 56% lower compared to the USA. For those on a tight budget, Colombia is a country worth considering to live in due to the ease of accessing food and low living costs such as accommodation and transportation. In my own experience, I was able to live comfortably on a modest income in Colombia. Although the cost of housing might vary greatly based on the city and area, it is typically far less expensive than in many other nations.
Colombian food is also quite cheap, particularly if you stick to the local shops and cuisine. A weekly grocery shop for one person can cost between 150,000 and 200,000 COP (about $40 to 55 USD), while a typical lunch at a neighborhood restaurant can cost between 15,000 and 20,000 COP (about $4 to 5 USD).
Living expenses in Colombia may be relatively low, particularly when weighed against other nations. Naturally, expenses may differ based on your lifestyle and the area you want to call home. Still, you should be able to live a pleasant and contented life in Colombia without going over budget.
Accommodation in Colombia
As someone who has lived in Colombia, I can tell you that finding accommodation is easy and reasonably priced. Many details, including cost, facilities, and location, must be taken into account when deciding where to reside. Luckily, Colombia has various housing options.
You have a wide range of options such as a tree house in the Amazon Forest, a residence overlooking the Caribbean Sea in Cartagena, a farm in the middle of coffee trees, a chalet with a view of the Andes Mountains, a bungalow on a virgin beach on the shore of the Pacific Ocean where palm trees extend to the sea without a highway, a hammock in the desert, one of the world-famous hotel chains or a hostel with tourists from different parts of the world.
Traveling Inside and Around Colombia
The Andes Mountains, the longest mountain range in the world, started as a single range in Chile and continued as a single range in Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador. When it reaches Colombia, it is divided into three rows. For this reason, even if the distances seem close on the map, it can take long hours when you want to reach by bus. However, you can travel almost everywhere in the country by plane. Unfortunately, no road access to dense forest areas such as Amazon and Choco exists. People generally use seaways or travel by boat on the river.
Weather in Colombia
When is the best time to travel to Colombia? That really depends on the region you choose. The weather in Colombia is mostly influenced by geographical location, not by different seasons.
The nights in the highlands get colder as you go higher. The lowlands have a tropical climate all year round with little temperature difference; however, from April through June, October, and November, rain showers are seen regularly.
Colombia is a year-round travel destination, especially near the Caribbean coast, where temperatures average about 33°C, and in Medellín, where 26–28°C temperatures are common throughout the year due to mild, dry weather.
Lifestyle and Culture
Colombia has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle and culture, from the energetic music and dance scenes to delicious cuisine and welcoming locals.
One characteristic that stands out is the importance of family and society in Colombian culture. Colombian culture strongly emphasizes family get-togethers, and there’s always a reason to rejoice. Furthermore, Colombians are among the most hospitable and kind individuals you will ever encounter.
Colombian music and dance are also fundamental to the country’s culture; classic forms like salsa and cumbia are very popular. In Colombia, you can see people of all ages dancing wildly at festivals and parties.Colombians also have words of address that they use when speaking to everyone they know or don’t know. When you enter a grocery store, the grocer will ask you, ‘Good morning my love, what are you going to buy?’ or the taxi driver might ask you. ‘Where do you want to go, my queen/king?’. On the one hand, you feel good in this country thanks to the Colombians who constantly address you as ‘my beautiful, my love, my sweetheart, my neighbor.’
Transport Options in Colombia
Colombian transportation is an exciting journey with lots of surprising turns and twists. There’s never a dull time on the road because of vibrant Chivas and swift moto-taxis. If you’re feeling really daring, why not take a trip in a vintage “Willys” jeep, which has been used for transportation in Colombia for many years? You’ll get the impression that you’re on an exciting safari adventure thanks to its open-air design and tough terrain characteristics. You can be sure that your trip to Colombia will be joyful and thrilling regardless of the mode of transportation you pick.
Food & Drinks in Colombia
Colombian cuisine is a strong example of multiculturalism with Spanish and African influences. Common foods include rice, corn, potatoes, yuca, beef, chicken, pork, goat meat, and seafood. Tropical fruits, especially cape gooseberry, feijoa, arazá, dragon fruit, mangostino, granadilla, papaya, guava, blackberry, lulo, soursop, and maruchia, are commonly consumed in Colombia. Arepa, a kind of crepe made from corn, is one of the oldest dishes of the cuisine.
The country’s cuisine is meat-heavy and limited for vegetarians. Seafood with coconut milk sauce is common in coastal areas. Soup varieties and spicy dishes are prominent in the capital, Bogota. Turtle and iguana egg consumption is common in forested areas. Hot chocolate is generally preferred by people as a beverage during tea time.
How about coffee? In Colombia, coffee is more than simply a beverage—it’s an essential part of the culture. It may sound biased, but Colombian coffee is truly unique from any other coffee worldwide. Because of its distinct topography, temperature, and ecology, the nation is able to generate tastes that are unparalleled in excellence.
Since the plant was brought to Latin America in the 1700s by Jesuit missionaries, Colombia has been a coffee producer. Colombians have developed a strong enthusiasm for cultivating coffee, which has made their nation the world’s third-largest producer of washed Arabica coffee beans, behind only Brazil and Vietnam.
Healthcare
Colombia has a world-class healthcare system. It is ranked higher than Canada, the United States, and Australia as the 22nd most efficient country in the world by the World Health Organization. South America’s top hospitals are found in Colombia. Specifically, some of the top health facilities in Latin America are located in Medellin. The city is renowned for being a top choice for transplant and cosmetic surgery. Doctors in Colombia are well-educated. The majority of them have studied abroad and, in addition to their native Spanish, speak English at a high level. Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS) is the name of the public health insurance program run by Colombia’s healthcare system.
Safety
Colombia is not among the safest countries in the world. However, significant measures have been implemented in recent years to reduce crime rates across the country. A number of Colombian locations have been deemed safe for travelers by government travel advisories. These include the Caribbean cities of Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, and Capurganá; the Pacific coast towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano; the departments of Quindio, Risaralda, and Caldas, San Andres; and Bogotá, Tunja, Bucaramanga, Medellín, and Cali.
Some streets in Bogotá can be dangerous. However, if you accurately determine the places you want to go and get opinions from reliable sources about the neighborhoods you plan to visit, your chances of encountering security issues will be low. Both international residents and visitors to Colombia agree that the nation is far safer than what is shown in the media. Nevertheless, as we mentioned earlier, it will be beneficial for you to do the necessary research about the conditions of the cities and regions you plan to visit while traveling in the country.
Airports: The Gateway to Colombia
Colombia’s primary airport is El Dorado International Airport. It’s located between the villages of Fontibón and Engativá, 13.35 kilometers west of El Centro (Plaza de Bolívar) in Bogotá. El Dorado Airport hosts six local airlines and thirty foreign airlines. Currently, the airport handles an average of 36 million passengers annually.
Other important international airports in Colombia include José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) and Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) in Medellín, Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) in Cali, and Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) in Cartagena.
Expat Life in Colombia
Due to its pleasant year-round warmth, vibrant South American culture, affordable cost of living, and easy access to the Caribbean, Pacific, and Andes, Colombia has become one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads and expats in recent years. For soon-to-be expats, Colombia is becoming an increasingly valued country every day.
Medellín is one of the most popular destinations for expats in the country, while retirees and foreigners who want to take advantage of a slower pace of life are also attracted to Cartagena.
Situated in the center of Colombia’s coffee region, the small town of Salento is another popular destination for the expat community. Many Colombian expats are drawn to the town’s natural beauty and charming colonial architecture. In addition to the numerous opportunities for hiking and nature trips, there is a close-knit expat community that is always delighted to welcome newcomers.
Best Places to Live in Colombia
- Bogota: Bogotá is the capital and largest city of Colombia. It is home to the Presidential Office and the country’s state, ministerial, and supreme judicial departments. Bogotá stands out for its economic strength and associated financial maturity, its attractiveness to global companies, and the quality of its human capital. The city is Colombia’s financial and commercial heart, with the most business activity.
- Medellin: Medellín is the second-largest city in the country after Bogotá. Its population is approximately 4 million, and it has a developed public transport network. The city is extremely popular among digital nomads, and many large and small startup offices have opened in recent years.
- Cali: Because of its distinctive street parties and dancing, Cali is called the “Salsa Capital” by the rest of the world and known as the “Rumba Capital” by the rest of Colombia.
- Cartagena: On the Caribbean coast of Colombia is the port city of Cartagena. The 16th-century walled Old Town, with its squares, cobblestone lanes, and vibrant colonial buildings, is located by the sea. The city has a tropical climate and is a well-liked beach vacation spot.
- Santa Marta: Santa Marta is one of the oldest cities in the country. Located on the Caribbean coast, it’s a harbor city. Tayrona National Natural Park and the Lost City (Teyuna) are among the important sites to visit.
- Manizales: Manizales is located in the mountainous region in the western part of the country. It’s known for its cultural events, steep streets and views of the nearby Nevado del Ruiz volcano.
- Pereira: Established in 1863, Pereira serves as the capital of Risaralda and the economic hub of Zona Cafetera, a bustling commercial district famous for its energetic nightlife. Visitors generally travel to Pereira on business occasions.
- Bucaramanga: Bucaramanga, the capital of the Santander region of Colombia, is a medium-sized city that is less well known than other more well-known Colombian cities such as Cartagena and Medellín. The city is known as the ‘city of parks’ and is characterized by its natural beauty.
5 Things You Didn't Know About Colombia
- In Colombia, alcohol is banned during large national events.
- Ciudad Perdida, also known as the Lost City ruins, is older than Machu Picchu.
- More people speak Spanish in Colombia than in Spain.
- Colombia has pink-colored river dolphins, also known as ‘Boto’.
- There are 60 national parks in this country.
Tips to Live in Colombia
- Embrace the “mañana” culture: “Mañana” is a part of Latin culture. While some interpret the word to mean “tomorrow,” others claim it means “not today.” When you hear this word, don’t stress if things don’t happen when you expect them to. You can take this impression as “We’ll handle it, don’t rush.” This aspect of culture is one of the best reflections of the Latin culture among Colombians.
- Learn Spanish: In a country where Spanish is a native language, improve your Spanish-skills and add a few new words to your vocabulary to get the culture right.
- Be open to new experiences: Do not hesitate to try new dishes, drinks, and experiences in this colorful country.
- Dress for the weather: Colombia’s unpredictable weather can bring sudden rains, so keep your umbrella with you.
- Be cautious with street food: When trying Colombian street food, ensure that the vendor pays enough attention to hygiene.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Always make sure your personal belongings are safe, and watch out for pickpockets on the streets.
- Take advantage of the local markets: You can purchase different fruits, Colombian coffee, and South American dishes for affordable prices.
- Be patient: In Latin American countries, especially bureaucratic work and paperwork can take a long time. Be patient in government offices and be prepared for the situation.
Health Risks
It’s important to be aware of some potential health risks when visiting or living in Colombia. Here are a few tips to stay healthy and safe:
- Make sure that your drinking and cooking water is clean.
- To protect yourself from diseases such as Dengue fever or Zika, beware of various bug and mosquito bites.
- To prevent altitude sickness, wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water when visiting high-altitude cities like Bogotá.
- Recognize that certain metropolitan areas have air pollution and take the appropriate safety measures.
Living in Colombia: The Wrap-Up
I have provided information about living and traveling in Colombia in this article. Accordingly, you can take the necessary precautions and start your adventure in Colombia by being aware of the beauties and adventures that the country has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colombia safe to live in?
Although Colombia has increased its security measures in recent years, taking some precautions while living or traveling in the country is essential. In this context, being cautious and aware in environments where you are unsure of safety is recommended. Consult guides or reliable sources for detailed information about the locations you will visit. By taking the right precautions and acting carefully, it is possible to live safely in Colombia.
What language do they speak in Colombia?
Spanish is the native language of Colombia. However, English is also spoken in tourist and business districts.
Do they speak English in Colombia?
In Colombia, it is uncommon to come across English speakers, especially outside of the cities and popular tourist destinations. While some Colombians may have a basic understanding of English, learning some Spanish words to communicate effectively would be helpful. Although not prevalent, in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions staff might speak English. It is advised to learn a few simple Spanish phrases and make an effort to speak with locals to immerse yourself in Colombian culture and daily life thoroughly.
Why consider living in Colombia?
With its welcoming people, reasonable cost of living, attractive Latin American culture, mild climate, and nature, Colombia is a country worth considering for living.
How large is Colombia?
Colombia's 1,141,748 square kilometers (440,831 square miles) make it the 25th biggest country in the world and the 4th largest in South America. Comparing it to the US state of Alaska, it is somewhat smaller. Colombia's topography is varied, encompassing the Caribbean and Pacific beaches, the Amazon jungle, and the Andes highlands.
What are some of the challenges of living in Colombia?
Security problems, slow bureaucratic procedures, and language barriers for non-Spanish speakers might be some of the difficulties you may encounter while living or traveling in Colombia.
Is it easy to make friends in Colombia?
Although the answer to this question may vary depending on your social skills, especially someone who speaks Spanish will probably be able to make friends in Colombia. Colombian people are generally known for being warm and friendly. Additionally, given the growing number of digital nomads and expats in the country, English speakers should find it relatively easy to make friends.
How easy is it to find work in Colombia?
It might be difficult to find a job in Colombia, especially if you don't have a working visa or fluent in Spanish. Still, there are job options in some sectors, such as tourism, English teaching, and remote employment for digital nomads. A solid skill set, perseverance, and networking can help you improve your chances of securing a job in Colombia.
What are the visa requirements for living in Colombia?
The duration of your stay and your nationality determine the kind of visa you need to live in Colombia. Similar to other countries, Colombia exempts citizens of some countries from needing a visa to enter while requiring others to obtain a tourist visa. This should be researched in detail based on your country of citizenship and your passport type. You must apply for a visa if you plan on staying in the country longer. You can apply for a work, student, or retirement visa. There are specific requirements and application processes for each type of visa. I recommend speaking with the Colombian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine your visa requirements. Before receiving a visa, certain nationalities might also need to submit extra paperwork or go through a background investigation.
How is the internet connectivity in Colombia?
Colombia's internet infrastructure has improved in recent years. Internet speed is better in metropolises but slower in small towns. In cities such as Medellin and Bogota, it is possible to get fast WI-FI access in cafes and restaurants.