Colombia is a fun country that's famous for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Colombia?
You should plan to spend around $48 (CO$206,507) per day on your vacation in Colombia. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $18 (CO$76,089) on meals
- $7.08 (CO$30,653) on local transportation
- $26 (CO$114,283) on hotels
A one week trip to Colombia for two people costs, on average, $668 (CO$2,891,098). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$334
CO$1,445,549
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$668
CO$2,891,098
-
One Month
Per person
$1,431
CO$6,195,210
-
One Week
For a couple
$668
CO$2,891,098
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$1,336
CO$5,782,196
-
One Month
For a couple
$2,862
CO$12,390,420
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Colombia cost?
A one week trip to Colombia usually costs around $334 (CO$1,445,549) for one person and $668 (CO$2,891,098) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Colombia on average costs around $668 (CO$2,891,098) for one person and $1,336 (CO$5,782,196) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Colombia will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Colombia on average costs around $1,431 (CO$6,195,210) for one person and $2,862 (CO$12,390,420) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Colombia expensive to visit?
Colombia is a very affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 10% of countries in the world for its affordability. Many budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring this country in depth.
Within South America, Colombia is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Argentina or Bolivia.
Colombia offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In Medellin, Santa Marta, and Cartagena, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.
It's true that Colombia can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.
On average, budget travelers spend $17 (CO$72,719) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $49 (CO$206,507) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $154 (CO$651,436) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Colombia.
For more details, see Is Colombia Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Colombia?
The average Colombia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Colombia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Colombia cost?
Colombia on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$4.71
(CO$20,403)
|
$13
(CO$57,142)
|
$41
(CO$176,163)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$2.51
(CO$10,861)
|
$7.08
(CO$30,653)
|
$22
(CO$95,720)
|
|
Food 2
|
$6.73
(CO$29,152)
|
$18
(CO$76,089)
|
$48
(CO$205,674)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$4.98
(CO$21,542)
|
$13
(CO$55,826)
|
$34
(CO$148,661)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-5
(CO$6,764-20,291)
|
$4-12
(CO$17,843-53,528)
|
$11-34
(CO$49,279-147,838)
|
Cartagena, Colombia
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Many travelers hear that exploring Colombia can be done for $17 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.
Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.
Fortunately, Colombia has a significant number of hostels, especially in Medellin, Santa Marta, and Cartagena.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors to Colombia will want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $49 per person, per day.
Colombia has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Cartagena de Indias, Barichara, and Jardin offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider El Marques Hotel Boutique in Cartagena de Indias or Santos de Piedra Barichara in Barichara. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Colombia here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $154 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Pereira and Rosario Islands. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Tailor-Made Best Colombia Tour with Daily Departure and Private Guide - offered by Agate Travel.
Accommodation Budget in Colombia
The variety of accommodation prices in Colombia can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Colombia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $26 (CO$114,283). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $13 (CO$57,142) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Colombia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Colombia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $7.08 (CO$30,653) per person, per day, on local transportation in Colombia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Colombia is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$7.08
CO$30,653
The typical transit costs in Colombia are outlined below, based on data from actual travelers. These figures provide an estimate of overall transportation expenses in the city. Remember, your personal costs will depend on how you choose to get around, as taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than using public transportation.
-
Taxi
CO$6,300
-
Gas
CO$20,000
-
2 Bus Passes
CO$3,400
-
Short Taxi Ride
CO$4,600
-
Short Taxi Ride
CO$3,900
-
Taxi to Airport
CO$30,000
-
Taxi Ride
CO$1,500
-
Taxi Ride
CO$3,608
Food Budget in Colombia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Colombia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Colombia is $18 (CO$76,089) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$18
CO$76,089
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Colombia is around $18 (CO$76089) per person, with previous travelers spending from $7 to $49. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Colombia are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $5
- Lunch: $3 to $9
- Dinner: $6 to $14
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $3
Colombian food shares many dishes with its nearby neighbors, although each dish has its own unique twist. Although the names may sound familiar, be prepared for slightly different flavors and preparation techniques.
Bandeja paisa: This popular meal typically includes rice, beans, fried plantain, arepa, fried egg, chorizo, and chicharron (which is pork crackling). Although it tends to be very fatty, it is also quite good and filling.
Sancocho de Gallina: This lunch dish is usually served on Sundays. It's a chicken soup that includes chicken, rice and vegetables. It's found throughout the country although most regions have their own variety. On the coast it's not uncommon to find it made with fish instead of chicken.
Empanadas: Colombian empanadas are very different from the Mexican variety. They are made with a pouch-like yellow exterior that is stuffed with meat and potato and make for an excellent snack, particularly during long trips.
Traveling with kids? Look for restaurants that have a dedicated kids menu. This can help you save some cash since those meals are often cheaper. Additionally, some restaurants might not list the childrens' options, so don't forget to ask the waiter first.
Many hotels have breakfast included in the room rate, while some charge for it separately. The cost and quality of breakfast can differ from hotel to hotel. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you choose whether to enjoy the hotel buffet or opt for a more affordable option at a nearby bakery or café.
Opt to carry a water bottle with you instead of splurging on drinks all the time. It's a choice that benefits the environment too.
If you're organizing a tour, take the time to find out which meals are included ahead of time. Having to pay for some of your meals can increase your total expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Colombia, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Private Dinner at a Local Chef's House in Cartagena for $59 details
- Street food tour with Julie for $120 details
- 5-Hour Cooking and Tasting Class with Market Small Group Tour for $170 details
- Private Colombian Cooking Class and Market Tour In Bogota for $90 details
Typical food prices in Colombia, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
-
Lunch
CO$8,000
-
Breakfast
CO$12,000
-
Hot Dog
CO$3,500
-
Hamburger
CO$6,500
-
Breakfast
CO$6,000
-
Dinner for Two
CO$20,900
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Colombia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Colombia typically cost an average of $13 (CO$55,826) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$13
CO$55,826
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Colombia. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Guatape & Paragliding Private Tour: Nature & Adventure in one Day for $172 details
- City Tour Medellin for $63 details
- Tour Paragliding in Medellín. For $68 details
- Private half day Medellin tour: meet Fernando Botero´s 23 statues for $55 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Colombia are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
-
Beer
CO$5,000
-
Movie Tickets (for 2)
CO$20,619
-
Yoga Session
CO$30,928
Nightlife Budget in Colombia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.24 (CO$35,685) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Colombia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.24
CO$35,685
Nightlife can be fun, but trimming your drink expenses can make a big difference in your travel savings.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Colombia. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Friday Night Bar Crawl in Cartagena, Colombia for $25 details
- Friday Night Bar Crawl in Barranquilla, Colombia for $17 details
- Salsa Bar Crawl in Cali, Colombia for $16 details
- Thursday Night Bar Crawl in Cartagena, Colombia for $20 details
Typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Colombia are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the drink prices in Colombia. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, how often you drink alcoholic beverages, and how much you order. Keep in mind that if you want to save money on your trip, cutting out alcohol can make one of the biggest impacts on your travel budget.
-
Beer
CO$9,000
-
Beer
CO$2,200
Traveling in Colombia
Salento, Colombia
Colombia is in the northern part of South America and controls access between Central America and South America. It also has a coastline along both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Colombia is a very diverse destination with a range of landscapes, cultures, and attractions that appeal to travelers. Starting in Bogota you can have an experience rich in art, architecture, cuisine, and shopping. From there you can travel for one or two hours in almost any direction and you will find yourself in a unique landscape and climate.
Head to the Colombian Caribbean if you're looking for modern cities that still hold on to their history. There you'll also find plenty of diving and hiking opportunities. To the east there are endless plains that have tropical savannas, forests, and wetlands. This is, perhaps, one of the least visited regions in the country. Along the Pacific Coast you'll find tropical forests, interesting marine life, and some of the country's best party cities. Head to the Colombian Islands if you're looking for a tropical setting with great diving.
As far as climate goes, there really is something for everybody. Along the coast the climate is quite tropical. This is also true in the eastern plains and the Amazon. In the highlands the temperature is much colder and there are dry periods without much rain. Although winter is often referred to as the rainy season, this doesn't hold true in all parts of the country. It's best to pack clothes for all temperatures and climates.
Colombia still suffers from its reputation as a dangerous and violent country but the reality is that the situation has much improved since the 1980s and 1990s. There are still some regions that are best avoided, but much of the country is welcoming to visitors and offers a unique travel opportunity.
At A Glance
- Eco-tourism continues to gain popularity throughout Colombia. You can usually find any number of trekking excursions on weekends. You can work with one of the many groups, known as caminantes, to participate in a cheap, one day excursion. There are also longer trips available on weekends and holidays. Some of the more popular groups that are based in Bogota include Viajar y Vivir, Fundacion Sal Si Puedes, and Caminantes del Retorno.
- If you want to buy some local handicrafts then a great option is the intricately designed jewelery that is available in the many markets or from street vendors. Quality can vary dramatically and bartering is a must. Look closely at the item you want to buy, consider its authenticity and craftmenship and then make an offer.
- Buses are a popular and relatively easy way to travel around the country. You can usually buy tickets the day of from the terminal and catch the next bus in route. Some companies will not sell tickets in advance, so familiarize yourself with the schedule so you can catch a convenient bus on your day of travel. Long distance travel can be slow so if time is crucial and money is not, a plane flight may be your better option.
- Colombia is growing fast as a hub for studying Spanish abroad. Colombian Spanish is generally considered "pure" with a clear accent. There are several good language schools you can choose from and some universities offer classes as well.
- Salsa classes are a great activity during your time in Colombia. The music is played everywhere and the country is famous for producing several world class dancers. In particular, Cali and Cartagena offer many different salsa clubs and schools.
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Top Tourist Attractions
Los Nevados National Park: This national park is home to several snow covered volcanic peaks. These include Nevado Del Ruiz, Nevado del Tolima, and others. The park is managed by the travel agency Aviatur which gives it a more commerical feel, although there are still great trekking opportunities available.
Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral): This large church was built in an underground salt mine almost completely out of salt. The walkways are lined with sculptures and there is an impressive cross over the alter. It is located in Zipaquira, which is a city about an hour north of Bogota.
Tayrona National Park: This popular national park is situated along the Caribbean coast near Santa Marta. It's a beautiful coastline with stunning beaches. There is also a nearby native village which you can explore with a guide.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.