Colombia
Colombia travel guide for Americans
US citizens need a tourist visa (V‑33) unless they hold a valid US B‑1/B‑2 visa, which may allow visa‑free entry for up to 90 days. Apply online or at the Colombian embassy; processing takes 5‑10 business days. Verify the latest rules before traveling.
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GuideColombia
Key facts
- Visa required
- Apply online or at embassy; 5‑10 business days processing
- Currencycheck
- Colombian peso (COP), ≈ 3,900 COP per US$
- Plug type
- A and B, 110‑120 V 60 Hz
Entry requirements for US citizens
A tourist visa (V‑33) is required for US passport holders. Applications are submitted online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal or in person at the Colombian embassy in Bogotá. Required documents: passport (valid ≥ 6 months), recent photo, proof of onward travel, and a bank statement or itinerary showing sufficient funds.
If you possess a valid US B‑1/B‑2 visa, you may be eligible for a visa‑exempt entry for stays up to 90 days – verify on the official portal before traveling.
- Visa fee: US$ 90 (online) or US$ 110 (in‑person) – check
- Processing time: 5‑10 business days – check
- Maximum stay: 90 days per entry, extendable up to 180 days
Colombian embassy for US citizens
The Embassy of Colombia in Washington, D.C. handles visa issuance for US residents. In Colombia, the US Embassy in Bogotá provides consular assistance.
- Washington, D.C. address: 1724 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
- Bogotá address: Carrera 7 # 114‑08, Bogotá, Colombia
- Emergency US consular line: +1 202‑944‑4000
Typical travel costs in USD
A mid‑range 10‑day itinerary (flights, accommodation, meals, transport) averages US$ 1,800‑2,200 per person, excluding optional tours.
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round‑trip flight (NY‑Bogotá) | US$ 450‑650 |
| Mid‑range hotel (per night) | US$ 40‑80 |
| Meals (per day) | US$ 15‑30 |
| Domestic flight (Bogotá‑Medellín) | US$ 70‑120 |
| Taxi/ride‑share (per ride) | US$ 5‑12 |
Prices are 2026 estimates; vary by season and booking time.
Flights and time difference
Major US hubs (New York, Miami, Atlanta) connect to Bogotá with non‑stop flights of 5‑6 hours. From Bogotá, short domestic flights to Medellín (1 h) and Cartagena (1 h 15 min) link the three recommended bases.
- Time zone: UTC‑5, same as Eastern Standard Time (no DST)
- Typical flight‑time planner: use /tools/flight-time-planner
Practical information
Power plugs are type A and B, compatible with US devices; voltage is 110‑120 V, 60 Hz. Bring a US‑type plug; no transformer needed.
Tipping is voluntary; 10 % ‘propina’ is often added to restaurant bills. Round up taxi fares if service was good.
Emergency number: 123 for police, ambulance, and fire services.
Tipping in Colombia
Tipping is voluntary; a 10 % ‘propina’ is often added to restaurant bills. Rounding up taxi fares is customary if service was good.
Emergency contacts
Emergency number: 123 for police, ambulance, and fire services.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Colombia?
Yes, a tourist visa (V‑33) is required unless you hold a valid US B‑1/B‑2 visa, which may grant a 90‑day visa‑free stay. Verify on the official portal.
How much does a trip to Colombia cost in USD?
A 10‑day mid‑range trip typically costs US$ 1,800‑2,200 per person, covering flights, hotels, meals, and internal transport.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Colombia?
The US Embassy is in Bogotá at Carrera 7 # 114‑08. For consular emergencies call +1 202‑944‑4000.
What plug type does Colombia use?
Colombia uses plug types A and B, 110‑120 V, 60 Hz – the same as the United States.
Is tipping expected in Colombia?
Tipping is voluntary; a 10 % ‘propina’ is often added to restaurant bills. Rounding up taxi fares is customary.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about Colombia
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