The Essentials of Colombia

Official Name: Republic of Colombia.

Passport/Visa Requirements: Citizens of Canada and the U.S. need a passport and proof of onward passage for stays of up to 90 days. Minors under age 18 who travel alone, with one parent or a third party must have written authorization from the absent parents or legal guardians. The authorization must be notarized, translated into Spanish and authenticated by a Colombian embassy or consulate before departure. Reconfirm travel document requirements with carrier before departure.

 

Health Certificates: None required. The Colombian government recommends yellow-fever vaccinations for visitors to the following areas: Amazonia, Uraba, the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Orinoquia, the middle valley of the Magdalena River and the eastern and western foothills of the Cordillera Oriental between the borders of Ecuador and Venezuela. Contact health authorities for latest information.

Capital: Bogota.

Political Divisions: 32 Departments, 1094 Municipalities and 4 Districts Political Constitution 1991 Constitution of the Republic.

Currency: Colombian peso (Col$). 100 centavos = Col$1.

Population: 39,685,655.

Area: 439,700 sq mi/1,138,823 sq km.

Languages: Spanish.

Economy: Agriculture, industry.

Predominant Religions: Christian (Roman Catholic).

Government: Republic.

Head of State: Alvaro Uribe Velez

Weather: Tropical on coast and eastern plains, cooler in highlands.

Time Zone: 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-5 GMT). Daylight Saving Time is not observed.

Voltage Requirements: 110/120 volts; 150 volts in some regions.

Telephone Codes: 57, country code; 1, city code for Bogota; 5, city code for Cartagena.

Airport Departure Tax: US$24.

TIPPING
Tip 10% in restaurants. Do not tip taxi drivers.