Colombia
Region
🌍 Americas
Population
👥 53
Currency
💱 Colombian peso
Languages
🗣️ Spanish
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Colombia, a land of vibrant contrasts, beckons travelers with its unparalleled biodiversity and rich cultural tapestry. From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the sun-drenched Caribbean coast and the lush Amazon rainforest, its diverse landscapes offer something for every explorer. Renowned for its world-class coffee, captivating music, and the legendary hospitality of its people, Colombia promises an unforgettable adventure. First-time visitors can expect a warm welcome, a kaleidoscope of colors, and a journey that awakens the senses. Prepare to be enchanted by colonial architecture, ancient ruins, and the rhythmic pulse of salsa and cumbia.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Republic of Colombia
Continent
America
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Colombian
Independence
July 20, 1810 (from Spain)
Top-Level Domain
.co
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+57
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC-05:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Bogotá
ISO Alpha-2
CO
ISO Alpha-3
COL
UN Code
170
Geographic Coordinates
4,-72
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
1,141,748#27 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
53,399,171#27 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
47.16
Highest Point (m)
5,776 meters (Pico Cristóbal Colón and Pico Simón Bolívar)
Lowest Point (m)
Sea level (Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean)
Land Use
Agricultural land: approximately 40%; forests and woodlands: approximately 54%
Irrigated Land
Approximately 6,600 square kilometers
Coastline Length
2,900 kilometers
Climate
Tropical; varies with altitude; cooler in the highlands
Natural Resources
Petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, nickel, gold, copper, emeralds
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Venezuela
Major Rivers
Magdalena, Cauca, Meta, Putumayo, Caquetá
Major Lakes
Laguna de Tota, Laguna de Cocha
Government Type
Republic
Administrative Divisions
32 departments and 1 capital district
Legal System
Civil law system based on Spanish law
Chief of State
President of the Republic
Head of Government
President of the Republic
Cabinet
Cabinet appointed by the President
Elections
President elected by popular vote for a four-year term; legislative elections held every four years.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court of Justice, Constitutional Court, Council of State
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Congress (Senate and House of Representatives)
Major Political Parties
Historic Pact, Conservative Party, Liberal Party, Radical Change
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Colombian peso
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
457.41#36 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1,209.58#31 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
8,561.62#109 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
9.95
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
21.76
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
58.51
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
5.14#47 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
27,099,025
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
8.29#54 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
71.2
Budget
The Colombian government's budget details are available on its official website.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
68.54#57 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
93.24#52 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Approximately $57 billion (2022).
Currency Exchange
Visit a reputable financial website or bank for current exchange rates.
GDP by Sector
Services, industry, and agriculture contribute to the GDP.
Major Industries
Petroleum, coal, textiles, food processing, and tourism are major industries.
Major Export Partners
The United States, Panama, and the Netherlands are major export partners.
Major Import Partners
The United States, China, and Mexico are major import partners.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
95.34#77 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
13.3
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
5.5
Net Migration Rate
Approximately -0.5 migrants per 1,000 population (2023).
Median Age
Approximately 32 years (2023).
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
78.78#66 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Approximately 0.9% annual rate of change (2023).
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
77.9#70 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Approximately 0.4% (2021).
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
8.14
Ethnic Groups
Mestizo, White, Afro-Colombian, and Indigenous are the main ethnic groups.
Religions
Predominantly Roman Catholic, with other religions present.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Spanish
Education
Education System
Structured around preschool, primary, secondary, and higher education. Education is compulsory from ages 5 to 15. Private and public schools exist.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
14.4
Government Education Spending
Around 4.5% of GDP.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Universidad de los Andes, Universidad del Valle, Universidad EAFIT, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana.
Culture
Cultural Overview
Rich and diverse, reflecting indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Strong emphasis on family and community.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- Año Nuevo (2026-01-01)
- Día de los Reyes Magos (2026-01-12)
- Día de San José (2026-03-23)
- Jueves Santo (2026-04-02)
- Viernes Santo (2026-04-03)
- Primero de Mayo (2026-05-01)
- Ascensión del señor (2026-05-18)
- Corpus Christi (2026-06-08)
- Sagrado Corazón (2026-06-15)
- San Pedro y San Pablo (2026-06-29)
- Día de la Virgen de Chiquinquirá (2026-07-13)
- Declaracion de la Independencia de Colombia (2026-07-20)
Popular Music
Reggaeton, Vallenato, Cumbia, Salsa.
Traditional Food
Arepas, Bandeja Paisa, Ajiaco, Empanadas, Sancocho.
Sports
Football (soccer), cycling, tejo (traditional game).
Major Festivals
Carnival of Barranquilla, Cali Fair, Festival of the Flowers (Medellín).
Famous People
Gabriel García Márquez, Shakira, Sofía Vergara, Fernando Botero, Juan Pablo Montoya.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Several historical towns and archaeological sites.
UNESCO Sites
Historic Centre of Santa Cruz de Mompox, Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments in Cartagena, Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia, National Archeological Park of Tierradentro, Archaeological Park of San Agustín, Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary.
Annual Tourist Visits
around 7.7 million/year
Tourism Overview
Colombia offers a multifaceted tourism experience, appealing to adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and relaxation seekers alike. The main regions span the Andean highlands, Caribbean coast, Pacific coast, Amazon basin, and the coffee-growing triangle. Typical trip styles include city breaks focused on culture and history, beach holidays on its numerous islands and coastlines, and eco-adventures in its vast natural parks. Highlights include exploring colonial cities, hiking in dramatic mountain ranges, discovering coffee plantations, and experiencing the country's vibrant music and dance scene. Colombia is well-suited for independent travelers, backpackers, families, and those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Top Tourist Attractions
- The Walled City of Cartagena
- Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) in Bogotá
- Comuna 13 in Medellín
- Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora)
- Tayrona National Natural Park
- The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
- Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)
- Coffee Cultural Landscape (Eje Cafetero)
- Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
- San Agustín Archaeological Park
- Caño Cristales (River of Five Colors)
- Guatavita Lake
Famous Cities
Bogotá, the high-altitude capital, offers a bustling urban experience with world-class museums like the Gold Museum, vibrant street art, and a thriving culinary scene. Medellín, the 'City of Eternal Spring,' is celebrated for its innovation, pleasant climate, and the revitalized Comuna 13, showcasing incredible transformation through art. Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with its colorful colonial walled city, historic fortresses, and romantic Caribbean ambiance, perfect for leisurely strolls. Cali, the salsa capital of the world, pulses with energetic music and dance, offering an authentic taste of Colombian rhythm. The coastal city of Santa Marta is a gateway to stunning beaches and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.
National Parks
- Tayrona National Natural Park
- Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park
- Los Nevados National Natural Park
- Chingaza National Natural Park
- Gorgona National Natural Park
- Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
- Chiribiquete National Natural Park
- Amacayacu National Natural Park
- Sumapaz National Natural Park
Protected Areas
—
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Colombia depends on your interests. For city exploration, the dry seasons from December to March and July to August offer pleasant weather in most regions, including Bogotá. Beach destinations like Cartagena are ideal during the dry season, avoiding the heavier rains of April-May and October-November. Hikers and nature enthusiasts will find the shoulder seasons more appealing with fewer crowds and blooming flora, though mountain areas can be cooler year-round. Festivals like the Barranquilla Carnival (February/March) and Medellín's Flower Festival (August) are major draws, so plan bookings well in advance if targeting these events.
Tourist Visa Info
Most tourists from the Americas and Europe do not require a visa for short stays in Colombia. Upon arrival, immigration officials may ask for your passport, proof of onward travel (like a return flight ticket), and sometimes evidence of sufficient funds. The initial tourist entry is typically for 90 days, and this can be extended for another 90 days, but the total duration of stay within a calendar year cannot exceed 180 days. Always verify the exact requirements for your specific nationality with official Colombian immigration sources before your trip.
Visa Requirements Overview
Many nationalities can enter Colombia for tourism purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, which can often be extended for another 90 days within a calendar year. This typically applies to citizens from many North American, South American, and European countries. However, visa requirements can vary significantly based on your nationality, so it is crucial to check the specific regulations applicable to your passport well in advance of travel. Travelers may be required to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.
Travel Advisory
Colombia is generally a safe destination for tourists who take standard precautions. While certain areas may still have security concerns, most tourist regions are well-protected and welcoming. It's advisable to avoid traveling alone at night in unfamiliar areas, keep valuables out of sight, and be aware of your surroundings. Researching specific destination advisories and staying informed about local conditions will enhance your travel experience. Using reputable transport and accommodation is recommended.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
The healthcare quality index for Colombia can be found on relevant health and economic databases.
Medical Cost
Medical costs vary depending on the service and location.
Number of Hospitals
Colombia has numerous hospitals; specific numbers fluctuate.
Universal Healthcare
System includes both public and private providers. The General Social Security System in Health (SGSSS) covers most citizens. Access can be variable depending on location and socioeconomic status.
Medical Services Overview
Colombia has a mixed public and private healthcare system.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency services are available throughout Colombia; dial 123 for assistance.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
112
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
112
Emergency Number (Fire)
112
Crime Rate
—
Safety Index
—
Military Expenditure
—
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services in Colombia are accessible through dedicated numbers. In case of a medical emergency, such as an accident or sudden illness, contact ambulance services immediately. For fire-related emergencies, there are specific fire department lines. The police are available for all security concerns and incidents. It is advisable to have these numbers readily available on your phone or written down during your stay.
Safety Overview
Colombia has made significant strides in safety, and millions of tourists visit without incident. As in any country, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep valuables secure and avoid displaying them ostentatiously. Be cautious of common scams like overcharging for taxis or unsolicited 'help.' Stick to reputable transportation and accommodation, and generally avoid walking alone in deserted areas after dark. Research specific neighborhood safety advice for larger cities.
Military Branches
—
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
—
Water Access
—
Sanitation Access
—
Railways
Limited passenger rail services, mostly for freight.
Roadways
Road conditions in Colombia vary significantly. Major highways connecting principal cities are generally well-maintained, though can still have unexpected potholes or uneven surfaces. Rural roads and those in more remote areas can be unpaved, winding, and prone to landslides, especially during the rainy season. Tolls are common on major highways and are typically paid in cash. Renting a car can offer flexibility for exploring certain regions, but self-driving outside major cities requires caution, good navigation skills, and an awareness of local driving habits, which can be aggressive.
Transportation System
Includes roads, air travel, and limited railway. Public transportation varies by city.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO), El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ), Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ), Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (MDE), Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG)
Ports
—
Public Transit
Major Colombian cities like Bogotá and Medellín boast extensive public transportation networks. Bogotá operates a large TransMilenio bus rapid transit system, with dedicated lanes and a card-based ticketing system. Medellín features a highly integrated system combining metro lines, cable cars (metrocables), and buses, also using a reloadable card. Other cities have local bus services, which can be more chaotic. For tourists, understanding the routes and payment methods is key; purchasing a rechargeable transport card is usually the most convenient option. Be mindful of rush hour crowds and the need for vigilance regarding personal belongings.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
79.35#111 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
—
Tech Startups
—
Innovation Index
—
ICT Development Index
—
TV Broadcast Stations
—
Radio Broadcast Stations
—
Plug Type & Voltage
Type A and Type B plugs, 110V, 60Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
1.8#119 of 202
Air Quality Index
Air quality varies by region and season; larger cities like Bogotá can experience moderate to unhealthy air quality, especially during dry periods or due to traffic.
Water Pollution Level
Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking in most parts of Colombia, especially in major cities. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for consumption.
Renewable Energy Usage
—
Environmental Issues
—
Natural Hazards
Colombia is located in a seismically active zone, so earthquakes can occur, though major damaging ones are infrequent. The country experiences distinct rainy seasons, which can lead to landslides, particularly in mountainous regions, and localized flooding. Coastal areas are occasionally subject to storm surges or hurricanes during hurricane season, though direct hits are less common than in some Caribbean islands. Visitors should stay informed about weather forecasts and local advisories, especially when traveling in rural or mountainous areas during periods of heavy rain.
Waste Management
Waste management practices are improving in Colombian cities, with increasing efforts towards recycling and proper disposal. Travelers can expect to see designated bins for waste, and in some areas, separate collection for recyclables. It's good practice to minimize plastic use and to dispose of your trash responsibly in public bins or by taking it back to your accommodation. Be mindful that recycling infrastructure may not be as advanced in smaller towns or rural areas.
Environmental Agreements
—
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
—