- 6 h / - 7 h during our summer time

Bogotá

Official language

Spanish

Language capabilities

English

110-120 volts, 60 Hz; plug types A and B / adapter required

Banks

8.00/9.00 - 15.00/16.00 h (Mon - Fri)Opening hours vary by region. Many banks also open on Saturdays, often only in the morning, generally from 9.00 to 12.00 h.


Shops

9.00/10.00 - 19.00/20.00 h (Mon - Sat)
Opening hours may vary. Some shops also open on Sundays, but for shorter hours, often from 11.00 to 17.00 h. Supermarkets and shopping centres generally have longer opening hours.

Colombia has a large number of public holidays. Colombians enjoy taking trips not only during the main holiday periods at Easter, in July/August and in December/January, but also on long weekends known as puentes (bridges). Several holidays are therefore moved from their calendar date to the following Monday. In the list below, this rule applies to the holidays marked with an asterisk:

• 1 January: New Year's Day (Año Nuevo)

• 6 January*: Epiphany (Día de los Reyes Magos)

• 19 March*: Saint Joseph's Day (Día de San José)

• Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo)

• Good Friday (Viernes Santo) and Easter Sunday (Domingo de Pascua)

• 1 May: Labour Day (Día del Trabajo)

• Ascension of the Lord* (Ascensión del Señor), variable date in May

• Corpus Christi*, variable date in May/June

• Sacred Heart of Jesus* (El Sagrado Corazón de Jesús), variable date in June

• 29 June*: Saints Peter and Paul (San Pedro y San Pablo)

• 9 July*: Our Lady of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá

• 20 July: Independence Day (Día de la Independencia)

• 7 August: Battle of Boyacá Day (Batalla de Boyacá)

• 15 August*: Assumption of Mary (La Asunción de la Virgen)

• 12 October*: Day of the Race (Día de la Raza)

• 1 November*: All Saints' Day (Día de Todos los Santos)

• 11 November*: Independence of Cartagena (Independencia de Cartagena)

• 8 December: Immaculate Conception (La Inmaculada Concepción)

• 25 December: Christmas Day (Navidad)

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens residing in Switzerland. The following documents and conditions apply when entering Colombia:

• A Swiss passport valid for the duration of the stay.

• No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

• Travellers must be able to present a return or onward ticket, valid documents for onward travel to the next country and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay. Entry may otherwise be refused.

• Travellers are advised to complete the free Check-Mig online form between 72 hours and one hour before travel. The Colombian immigration authority currently describes this pre-registration as optional.

• Minors: check the entry formalities for minors with the local authorities. More information is available under travel authorisation for travel with children.

• Travellers to San Andrés (ADZ) must present a return or onward ticket and purchase a tourist card. A local tourism levy may be charged on arrival in Leticia (LET); this is not the same as the San Andrés tourist card.

- Information last updated in August 2026 -

Because of its geographical location and topography, Colombia has a highly varied climate. The country lies close to the equator and therefore has no pronounced seasons like those in temperate zones. Climate is determined mainly by altitude and proximity to the coasts.

Tropical lowlands below 1,000 metres have a hot and humid climate:

• Caribbean coast (e.g. Cartagena, Barranquilla): temperatures of 24-32°C throughout the year; high humidity and two rainy seasons from April to June and September to November.

• Pacific coast (e.g. Buenaventura): temperatures of 25-30°C throughout the year; very high humidity and heavy rainfall during almost the entire year.

• Amazon region: temperatures of 24-30°C throughout the year; high humidity and year-round rainfall.

The Andean regions are cooler because of their altitude and include most of Colombia's major cities:

• Bogotá (2,640 metres): temperatures of 7-20°C throughout the year; mild climate and two rainy seasons from April to June and October to November.

• Medellín (1,495 metres): temperatures of 15-28°C throughout the year; known as the “City of Eternal Spring”, with moderate temperatures and two rainy seasons from April to June and September to November.

• Cali (1,000 metres): temperatures of 19-34°C throughout the year; warm climate and two rainy seasons from April to June and September to November.

The Llanos, or eastern plains, are flat tropical grasslands with a hot climate and a pronounced wet and dry cycle:

• Villavicencio: temperatures of 23-32°C throughout the year; rainy season from April to November.

The highland regions have cool to cold conditions depending on altitude:

• Páramo (e.g. Sierra Nevada del Cocuy): temperatures of 0-10°C throughout the year; cold alpine climate with frequent fog and rain.

Additional information:

• Rainy seasons: April to June and September to November are rainy periods in many parts of the country. Heavy rainfall and flooding may make travel difficult.

• Regional differences: Colombia is a large and diverse country, so conditions can vary considerably. Check the specific weather conditions for your destination before travelling.

The ideal time for your trip to Colombia:

• Beach holidays: Caribbean coast December-April / Pacific coast July-October.

• City breaks in the Andean region, e.g. Bogotá, Medellín and Cali: December-March and July-August.

• Winter holidays in highland regions, e.g. Sierra Nevada del Cocuy: December-March.

• Mobile phone use: mobile-phone use in Colombia may incur roaming charges. Check the charges before departure and consider purchasing a special roaming package to reduce costs.

• Wi-Fi: free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: a local prepaid SIM card can be purchased for local calls and mobile data. Providers in Colombia include Claro, Movistar, Tigo and Virgin Mobile.

• Ciudad Perdida, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: an ancient lost city older than Machu Picchu, reached on a multi-day trek through the jungle.

• Cartagena: a well-preserved colonial city on the Caribbean coast, known for its colourful houses, historic fortifications and charming streets.

• Eje Cafetero (Coffee Triangle), Armenia, Pereira and Manizales: a scenic region known for coffee plantations, idyllic landscapes and charming villages.

• Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta: a beautiful coastal park with unspoilt beaches, tropical rainforest and rich biodiversity.

• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, Zipaquirá: an impressive underground church carved into a salt mine about an hour north of Bogotá.

• Bogotá: Colombia's capital, known for the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), the Botero Museum and the historic La Candelaria district.

• Medellín: a modern city famous for its mild climate, innovative urban projects and cable cars connecting the city with the surrounding hills.

• Cali: the “salsa capital of the world”, known for its vibrant culture, dance scene and annual Feria de Cali festival.

• San Agustín Archaeological Park, San Agustín: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 500 megalithic statues and tombs created by an ancient civilisation.

• Villa de Leyva: a charming colonial village with well-preserved cobbled streets and one of South America's largest paved squares.

• Guatapé, Guatapé: a colourful village known for its elaborately painted houses and the nearby El Peñol monolith, which can be climbed.

• Caño Cristales, Serranía de la Macarena: the “river of five colours”, known for its spectacular rainbow-like aquatic plants and crystal-clear water.

• Tatacoa Desert, Villavieja: an impressive desert landscape with distinctive erosion formations and one of Colombia's finest places for stargazing.

• Providencia Island, Caribbean: a remote, unspoilt island with white sandy beaches, turquoise water and excellent diving.

• Barichara, Santander: a picturesque colonial village known for its well-preserved buildings and cobbled layout, often described as Colombia's most beautiful village.

Colombia is known for its diverse and rich cuisine, shaped by the country's different regions and cultures. Culinary specialities include:

• Diversity of the cuisine: Colombian cuisine reflects its regions, from fresh seafood on the coasts to hearty stews in the Andes and exotic fruit in the Amazon.

• Arepas: traditional maize cakes with a wide range of regional fillings or toppings, often cheese, butter or eggs.

• Bandeja paisa: a substantial Antioquian dish containing rice, beans, meat, egg, avocado and fried plantain.

• Ajiaco: a hearty chicken stew from Bogotá prepared with several types of potato, maize and guasca herbs.

• Empanadas: fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese or vegetables and eaten as a popular snack throughout Colombia.

• Patacones: fried plantain slices commonly served as a side dish or snack.

• Aguardiente: a traditional Colombian anise-flavoured spirit, particularly popular at celebrations.

• Chicha: a fermented maize drink with a long history and particular cultural importance in Indigenous communities.

• Tres leches: a moist cake soaked in three types of milk and served at many celebrations.

• Natilla: a soft custard traditionally eaten during the Christmas season, often with buñuelos.

• Obleas: thin wafers spread with sweet fillings such as dulce de leche, jam or cheese.

• Greetings: a warm greeting, often with a handshake, is customary. It is polite to say “Hola”, “Buenos días”, “Buenas tardes” or “Buenas noches”. In formal situations, “Señor” or “Señora” may be used with the surname.

• Saying please and thank you: courtesy is very important. “Por favor” and “gracias” are expected, especially when interacting with local people.

• Clothing: dress varies by region and occasion. Western clothing such as jeans and shirts or blouses is common in larger cities. Looser clothing may be more appropriate in rural and coastal areas. Formal dress is expected in upmarket restaurants and at business meetings.

• Dining culture: meals have strong social importance and are generally enjoyed without rushing. Some traditional foods may be eaten by hand. Wait for the host to begin eating before you start.

• Smoking: smoking is restricted or prohibited in many public areas, restaurants and hotels. Observe local rules and ask before smoking near other people.

• Tipping: tipping is customary in restaurants, hotels and for services such as taxi journeys. Around 10% is appropriate. Some restaurants and hotels may already include a voluntary service charge on the bill.

• Other: respect local traditions, particularly at religious sites and ceremonies. Basic Spanish is appreciated. Be respectful of cultural differences and avoid making disparaging remarks about political or cultural matters.

• Drinking water quality: tap water in larger cities such as Bogotá and Medellín is generally treated, but travellers may still react sensitively. Outside cities and in rural areas, avoid tap water and use bottled or otherwise safely treated water.

• Vaccinations: no vaccination is generally required for travellers arriving directly from Switzerland. Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Because yellow-fever cases have increased and risk areas were expanded in 2025/2026, seek specialist travel-medicine advice well before departure; vaccination is recommended for many destinations in Colombia, including certain national parks and other designated risk areas.

• Protection from mosquito bites: wear long-sleeved clothing, use insect repellent and, where appropriate, sleep under mosquito nets.

• Malaria: malaria risk is not uniform throughout the country. It exists year-round in certain lower-altitude rural and jungle areas, while Bogotá and several major tourist cities have no or negligible risk. Whether preventive medication is advisable depends on the itinerary and should be discussed with a travel-medicine specialist. Consistent protection from mosquito bites, particularly between dusk and dawn, is essential.

• Dengue fever: dengue occurs in many parts of Colombia, particularly in warmer urban areas and during rainy periods. Day-active mosquitoes transmit the disease. There is no specific antiviral treatment. Vaccination is available only for selected travellers following medical assessment and does not replace bite prevention.

- Information last updated in August 2026 -

• Medical care is available in the larger cities. Outside them, it is not always fully available. Hospitals require a financial guarantee, such as a credit card or advance payment, before treatment.

• If you depend on particular medication, carry an adequate supply. Many countries have special rules on medicines containing controlled substances, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, check with the responsible foreign diplomatic mission, embassy or consulate, before departure.

• Before and during your trip, follow media reports about the current situation and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available from the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Following the earthquake of 10 August, a nationwide state of emergency was declared. Chocó, Risaralda, Valle del Cauca and Caldas are among the areas most severely affected. Regional airports may be subject to restrictions. Consult the websites of the responsible authorities: Servicio Geológico Colombiano and Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres. In an emergency, contact the police on 123 or the local authority responsible for civil protection, Grupo de Protección, on +57 601 375 23 51.

• In general, pay close attention to your personal safety.

• The crime rate and willingness to use violence are high. Armed groups and criminal gangs are active throughout the country and are being combated by the police and military. Clashes between these groups also occur.

• The social and political situation is tense. Spontaneous strikes, demonstrations and unrest may occur at any time. They may be accompanied by arson, looting and roadblocks. The potential for violence is high. The risk of unexpectedly becoming caught up in a violent confrontation cannot be ruled out.

• Roadblocks and strikes may cause disruption and delays to travel, paralyse entire regions and lead to supply shortages.

• In the event of roadblocks or strikes, obtain local information about alternative travel options and, if necessary, wait for the situation to return to normal.

• Illegal armed groups are active in several regions and border areas. See the section on specific regional risks.

• The authorities may impose a state of emergency and curfews at short notice.

• Politically motivated attacks and other acts of violence against the civilian population occur throughout the country. Attacks are primarily directed at the security forces, but uninvolved people may also become victims of such violence.

• Between January and April 2026, a series of serious incidents involving illegal armed groups occurred in several regions of Colombia. These groups were responsible for repeated violent attacks against civilians and the authorities. Fighting in the Catatumbo region claimed dozens of victims and displaced several thousand residents. In the department of Arauca, an armed attack on a senator's convoy killed members of his security detail. In Cauca, a senator and her bodyguards were briefly abducted. At the end of April 2026, a bombing on the Pan-American Highway caused numerous civilian casualties. A further series of coordinated attacks on military and civilian facilities took place in Cauca and around Cali. These events indicate a high risk of targeted attacks and kidnappings. The use of explosives and coordinated operations against critical infrastructure pose a considerable risk to mobility, road safety and access to public authorities in the affected areas.

• Politically motivated kidnappings and kidnappings for ransom occur. Most victims are local residents, but foreign nationals have also been abducted.

• Pay due attention to your personal safety and preferably choose accommodation in the following places: larger cities, departmental capitals and their surroundings; and generally destinations with developed tourist infrastructure offered by recognised tour operators.

- Information last updated in August 2026 -

• Driving licence: a valid Swiss driving licence is recognised for tourists during their authorised stay. An international driving permit is strongly recommended as a supplementary document and is valid only together with the national licence. It is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: depending on the rental company and vehicle category, the minimum age is generally between 21 and 25.

• Traffic rules: traffic drives on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Exercise particular caution because road conditions and driving standards can vary considerably; avoid driving at night outside urban areas where possible.

• Vehicle equipment: vehicles must carry the statutory road-safety kit, including two warning devices or reflective triangles, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a jack, a wheel brace, a spare tyre, a torch and basic tools. A CH sticker is required on a Swiss vehicle if the national identifier is not already displayed in a compliant manner on the registration plate.

• Blood alcohol limit: penalties apply from 20 mg of ethanol per 100 ml of blood, equivalent to 0.2‰. The safest rule is not to drink alcohol before driving.

• Long-distance trains: Colombia's intercity rail network is not well developed. Only a few routes exist and they are used mainly for freight, so travellers should rely on other means of transport for longer journeys.

• Regional trains: regional rail also plays a minor role. Tourist routes include the Tren Turístico de la Sabana near Bogotá, but these are exceptions.

• Buses: buses are the principal means of long-distance travel. A dense network connects all major cities and many smaller towns. Services range from basic to luxury vehicles with air conditioning, Wi-Fi and reclining seats.

• Metro, tram and cable cars: Medellín has Colombia's only metro system, integrated with the Metrocable cable cars and the Ayacucho tram. Bogotá and other major cities operate bus rapid transit systems, including TransMilenio.

• Tickets: public transport tickets can be purchased at railway stations, bus terminals or online. Bogotá and Medellín use reloadable electronic cards for their local networks.

• Other: taxis and app-based services such as Uber and Cabify are available in most larger cities. Legal and insurance arrangements for app-based services may differ from those for licensed taxis. Motorcycle taxis are common in some rural areas.

• El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Bogotá: no direct flights from Switzerland are currently scheduled; numerous connecting services operate via European hubs such as Madrid, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Paris.

• José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), Medellín: no direct flights from Switzerland are currently scheduled; connecting services are available, including via Madrid.

• Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), Cartagena: no direct flights from Switzerland are currently scheduled; connecting services are available via European hubs.

Major airlines operating in Colombia include Avianca, LATAM Airlines, JetSMART, Wingo, SATENA and Copa Airlines.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• General emergency number: 123

• Fire brigade: 119

Embajada de Suiza en Colombia
Cra. 9 No 74-08
Piso 11, Edificio Profinanzas
Bogotá
Colombia
Tel.: +57 601 489 87 80
Email: bogota@eda.admin.ch
Consular services: bogota.consular@eda.admin.ch

• Natural hazards: there is an underlying earthquake risk. Colombia has several active volcanoes, particularly in the Cordillera Central, and eruptions may occur at any time. Tsunamis triggered by volcanic eruptions or earthquakes in the Pacific may also reach Colombia. Hurricanes may affect the Caribbean coast from June to December. Heavy rain can cause flooding and landslides, damage infrastructure and disrupt travel. Wildfires also occur. Follow weather forecasts and the warnings and instructions of the local authorities. Further information is available from the Servicio Geológico Colombiano and the Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres.

• Crime: crime and willingness to use violence are high. Theft and armed robbery are common throughout the country. In so-called express kidnappings, victims are forced to withdraw cash with a card; these occur at any time and even in affluent neighbourhoods. Fraud may be committed by people wearing police uniforms. Legal uncertainty exists and offences often go unpunished. Piracy occasionally occurs in Caribbean waters off Colombia; consult the information on maritime risks and piracy.

• Special legal provisions: violations of narcotics legislation are punished severely. Prison conditions are very poor.