Updated on 03/13/2024
Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!
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How much does it cost to travel to Colombia on a budget?
Discover Colombia, a treasure trove for travelers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Known for its affordability, Colombia is ideal for backpackers and budget-conscious tourists. In this guide, we’ll explore ways to enjoy Colombia’s richness without overspending.
Currency and Exchange
Prices in Colombia will be listed in Colombian Pesos (COP). The COP has seen significant fluctuations against the USD. For current exchange rates, search “USD to COP” on Google. Use your local currency’s code for specific conversions (e.g., “EUR to COP”).
Assuming an exchange rate of 1 USD to 4,000 COP:
- 10,000 COP ≈ 2.5 USD
Finding Affordable Flights to Colombia
Flights to Colombia can be budget-friendly. A flight from the USA might start at around $200, while European departures begin at approximately €500. For the best deals:
- Compare multiple websites like Expedia, Skyscanner, and Kayak.
- Be flexible with travel dates and destinations.
- Book well in advance or last-minute for potential savings.
- Consider using a VPN for potentially lower regional prices.
Domestic Flight Costs
Colombia offers excellent domestic flight connectivity. To find the best prices:
- Compare prices across airlines and booking platforms.
- Consider both budget and regular airlines.
- Prices may vary based on season and demand.
- Use different devices and browsers.
Example prices (subject to change):
- Bogotá to Medellín: COP 176,000.
- Bogotá to Cartagena: COP 232,000.
- Bogotá to Pereira: COP 180,000.
- Bogotá to Armenia: COP 184,000.
- Bogotá to Bucaramanga: COP 188,000.
Accommodation Options
Colombia’s accommodation options range from budget to luxury. Sometimes, hotels can be more affordable than hostels. Booking platforms often offer better deals than direct hotel bookings.
Price range (subject to change):
- Hammocks: from COP 15,000
- Hostels in cities: from COP 35,000
- Premium hostels: from COP 80,000
- Budget hotels: from COP 35,000
- Mid-range hotels: from COP 100,000
We have actually so great options for you, check out our following blogs:
- The 11 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Bogota
- The 11 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Medellin
- The 8 Best Hostels in El Poblado, Medellin
- Top 9 Budget-Friendly Hotels in Cali
- Top 11 Budget-Friendly Hotels in Cartagena
- Top 11 Budget-Friendly Hotels in Barranquilla
- The 9 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Colombia’s Coffee Region
- The 14 Best Hostels in Salento Colombia
Land Transportation Costs
Traveling by land in Colombia can vary in cost. Public transportation and taxis are generally affordable, but private transport can be more expensive.
Example prices (subject to change):
- Private transport with driver/day: COP 350,000
- Taxi from Bogotá airport to city: COP 20,000 – 30,000
- Public transport in Bogotá/trip: COP 3,000
Food and Drink Costs
Colombia is a food paradise with affordable options. Street food and local markets offer great value.
Example prices (subject to change):
- Street coffee: COP 1,000
- Restaurant dish: from COP 20,000
- Restaurant at marked: from COP 10,000
- Rice (1 kg): COP 3,000
- Beans (1 kg): COP 8,000
- Eggs (Dozen): COP 6,000
- Milk (1 liter): COP 2,500
- Bread (Loaf): COP 3,000
- Chicken Breast (1 kg): COP 12,000
- Coffee (500g): COP 15,000
- Bananas (1 kg): COP 2,000
- Tomatoes (1 kg): COP 4,000
- Sugar (1 kg): COP 2,500
Tourist Acitivities Costs in Colombia
Prices for activities can vary. Some attractions offer discounts for Colombian residents.
Example prices (subject to change):
- Monserrate Bogota Trip: COP 20,000
- This remains a popular attraction in Bogota, offering stunning views of the city. The cost covers the cable car or funicular ride to the top.
- Tayrona National Park Entry (Foreigners): COP 68,000
- A major natural attraction, this park offers beautiful beaches and hiking trails. The price is specifically for foreign visitors, as Colombian residents usually get a discount.
- Gold Museum Bogota: COP 4,000 (Free on Sundays)
- Home to an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts, it’s a must-visit in Bogota. The museum is free on Sundays.
- Coffee Farm Tour in the Coffee Triangle: COP 30,000 – 50,000
- Experience the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Prices vary by farm and tour complexity.
- Medellin Metrocable Ride: COP 6,000
- A unique way to see Medellin from above, the Metrocable is part of the city’s public transport system.
- Cartagena Walled City Walking Tour: COP 25,000 – 35,000
- Explore the historic center of Cartagena, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant streets.
- Rosario Islands Day Trip from Cartagena: COP 150,000 – 200,000
- A popular day trip to beautiful Caribbean islands, including snorkeling and beach time. Prices vary based on the tour package.
- Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá Tour: COP 50,000 – 70,000
- Visit this unique underground church built within the tunnels of a salt mine, just outside of Bogota.
- Paragliding in Bucaramanga: COP 120,000 – 150,000
- Experience the thrill of paragliding in one of the best spots in Colombia, with stunning views.
- Salsa Dance Class in Cali: COP 20,000 – 40,000
- Learn salsa from expert dancers in Cali, known as the salsa capital of the world. Prices depend on the class length and group size.
Tours Free walking tours are common in larger cities. Local agencies offer group tours at reasonable prices. Remember, you often get what you pay for.
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