Colombia is the fastest-growing destination for American travelers. Direct flights from Miami, NYC, Houston, and Fort Lauderdale make it easier than ever. Here's what Americans specifically need to know.
Visa#
Americans get 90 days on arrival — no visa required. Stamp at immigration, walk through. You can extend for another 90 days at Migración Colombia ($50).
Flights#
- Miami → Medellín: 3.5 hours, $200-350 roundtrip (Spirit, JetBlue, Avianca)
- Miami → Bogotá: 4 hours, $250-400 roundtrip
- NYC → Bogotá: 5.5 hours, $300-500 roundtrip
- Fort Lauderdale → Cartagena: 3 hours, $200-350 roundtrip
Pro tip: Spirit Airlines has the cheapest fares but charges for everything. JetBlue and Avianca offer better value with included bags.
Money#
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). $1 USD ≈ 4,000 COP (fluctuates)
- ATMs work everywhere (Bancolombia has the lowest fees)
- Credit cards accepted in cities but cash needed for street food, taxis, and small towns
- Tipping: 10% usually included in restaurants
Phone#
Buy a local SIM at the airport. Claro or Movistar — $5-10 for a month of data. Your US phone works if unlocked. T-Mobile includes free international data (slow but functional).
The American Experience#
Americans are generally well-received in Colombia. Colombians appreciate that more Americans are seeing beyond the old stereotypes. Learn a few Spanish phrases — it goes a long way.
Common Mistakes Americans Make#
- Only going to Poblado in Medellín — venture to Laureles and Envigado for the real city
- Taking yellow taxis — use InDrive or DiDi, always
- Flashing phones — keep electronics in your pocket on the street
- Drinking tap water — bottled water only
- Not trying local food — don't eat at American chains. Eat bandeja paisa, arepas, empanadas
The Local Friend Advantage#
As an American in Colombia, you stand out. A Local Friend helps you blend in — they know where to go, how to negotiate, and how to navigate a culture that's warm but different from what you know.
Worried about safety? Is Cartagena safe covers the Old City, Getsemaní and Bocagrande, and the scams worth knowing.