Colombia is a country situated in Southern America. The country was named after Christopher Columbus and although he never set foot in Colombia, he visited Panama on his 4 voyage, which was at the time part of Colombia. Colombia has the 2nd largest population in Southern America and the 3rd largest of all Spanish-speaking countries. The country also serves as the only connection between Central and Southern America. Colombia is also the only South American country with borders in the North Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Capital
Bogotá
Largest city
Bogotá
National language
Spanish
Currency
Peso (COP)
Timezone
UTC-5
Daylight Savings Time
UTC-5
Electricity
Unknown
Drives on the
Right
When to go
Weather
Colombia is a equatorial country, which means that the country don't experience seasons. The climate is a typical tropical climate along the coast and eastern plains. The rainy season is during the winter months and temperatures have been known to drop below 0˚C. Some of the country's mountains are covered in snow with cities in the Andes at mid-altitude experience an "everlasting spring" weather. Cities along the Atlantic coast experience hot and humid weather.
Major attractions in Colombia
- Corales del Rosario
- Las Lajas Sanctuary
- Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
- Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
- Tayrona National Natural Park
- Gold Museum
- Botero Museum
- Luis Angel Arango Library
- Mompos
Events & Festivals
- Medellín's Festival of the Flowers
- Barranquilla Carnival
- Carnival of Blacks and Whites
- Ibero-American Theater Festival
Health and safety
Crime:
Although the crime rate has significantly dropped in the last 2 decades, major urban centers and the countrysides still have very high crime rates. Always stay in the cities and always speak to a trusted local. Dress appropriately and avoid "looking rich".
Water:
It is advisable to drink only bottled water outside of the major cities.
