Travel Vaccines and Advice for Colombia
Colombia is a famous destination for the admirers of nature and history. The country is very diverse and offers a wide variety of sights for every visitor. Apart from amazing Caribbean seasides, there are many ancient historical sites, voluminous mountains and rainforests.
The variety of climates makes every season in Colombia worthwhile.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Colombia?
Do I Need a Visa for Colombia?
What Is the Climate Like in Colombia?
Will I Be Safe in Colombia?
Must-Sees in Colombia
What Should I Take to Colombia?
Where Is the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Colombia?
Do I Need Vaccines for Colombia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Colombia. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Colombia: hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a region with yellow fever including Brazil. Not usually recommended for travellers to Barranquilla, Cali, Catagena, Medellin or areas over 2,200 metres in elevation. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Colombia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
| Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a region with yellow fever including Brazil. Not usually recommended for travellers to Barranquilla, Cali, Catagena, Medellin or areas over 2,200 metres In elevation. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Mosquito-borne diseases are found throughout Colombia’s climates. Be sure to bring repellents to avoid dengue, Zika, malaria and yellow fever. The exact infections in each region vary. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn more.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Visa for Colombia?
A visa is not required for trips of 90 days or less to Colombia. Individuals with visas staying more than 90 days must register with Colombian immigration authorities within 15 days of arrival.
Passports must have at least six months validity. A departure tax is levied upon exit based on the length of stay. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.
Colombia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Colombia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Colombia and GOV.UK
What Is the Climate Like in Colombia?
Colombia is an equatorial country with a tropical climate. Due to the variance in altitude, the climate alternates a lot. It is a great destination all year long, as even in rainy periods, some of regions will be dry and sunny.
The daily average temperatures alternate between 15 and 25 degrees throughout the year.
- The Coast – Colombia’s coastline and rainforests are tropical. The average temperature is 27 all year long. The dry season is from November to April, when temperatures can exceed 29 degrees. The rainy season is from May to October.
- Mid-Altitude – Cities at mid-altitude in the Andes have beautiful and temperate weather all year long. Popular destinations in the midlands are Medellín, Popayán and Pereira.
- The Highlands – The highlands are temperate in the daytime and drop significantly down to 10 degrees. In the highlands, the weather is cool all year long. Bogota, the capital of Colombia, is situated in these altitudes.
Will I Be Safe in Colombia?
Colombia has a high crime rate. Even though security has improved in recent years, practice caution at all time during your visit. Various factions still operate in the jungles of Colombia working in anything from the drug trade to kidnapping.
Avoid wandering in unknown neighbourhoods and walking alone in the dark. Do not accept drinks or cigarettes from strangers and refuse drugs at all times. Keep valuables in a safe place and don’t carry large amounts of cash with you.
The coastlines are generally safe than the in-land. Be careful at seasides and other public places as pickpocketing and petty theft can occur. Events like Carnaval are prime targets for these opportunists.
Must-Sees in Colombia
Colombia’s many cities and rainforests offer much to explore.
In major cities like Bogota and Cartagena, nightlife thrives. Visit any of the many clubs, but be aware of your surroundings. These cities are also sites for large Carnaval celebrations in February. These huge, week long parties invite travellers to let loose and have fun.
Colombia is also home to some of South America’s amazing pre-Incan ruins. Consider a guided tour to visit these areas as venturing on your own can be dangerous.
What Should I Take to Colombia?
Colombia is known for its wide variety of climates and activities. Ensure you pack according to your itinerary.
- Swimsuit – Colombia’s seasides are a must-visit for any traveller. Be sure to bring a swimsuit and sun cream.
- Rain Jacket – The climate in Colombia varies. Be sure to bring some waterproof gear to avoid any problems. Even during the dry seasons, nights in higher altitude get chilly and a light jacket will come handy.
- Hiking Boots – Visiting Amazon rain forest and the Andes requires good boots to protect your feet from the terrain. Ensure they are broken in before your trip to avoid blisters or sore feet.
- Mosquito Repellent – There is a range of serious mosquito-borne illnesses in Colombia. Besides vaccination, repellents are one of the best forms of protection.
Where Is the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Colombia?
If you are in Colombia and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British Embassy in Colombia
Carrera 9, No 76-49, Piso 8
Edificio ING Barings, Bogotá
Bogotá
Colombia
Telephone: (57) (1) 326 8300
Emergency Phone: +571 326 8300
Contact Form: Click Here
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