Climate
The best time to visit the North (Caribbean) coast is during the dry season which lasts from December to March, when temperatures reach 30oC. Anywhere over 2000m altitude - this includes Bogotá – has a spring-like climate and can be chilly at night. The Amazon region enjoys a climate typical of the jungle at these latitudes – hot and humid all year round.
Fiestas and holidays
Most festivals are related to the Catholic calendar or historical events and involve a lot of dancing, salsa music and drinking. They are especially vibrant on the Caribbean coast where the culture is a mix of Latin and black Caribbean. New Year’s Eve is fun in Cartagena, when the whole walled city celebrates with a huge party, makeshift bars spilling out into the streets.
Currency
Colombian Peso. See www.oanda.com for exchange rates.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date travel advice on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries can find visa information here.
Vaccinations
See www.MASTA.org for up-to-date health advice for travellers.