Traveling to Colombia can be one of the most memorable experiences you’ll ever have. The country’s landscapes, food culture, and warm hospitality are captivating, but they also come with social norms and unspoken rules many first-time visitors don’t realize exist. What might seem harmless to a tourist can easily come across as disrespectful, unsafe, or even suspicious to locals who navigate these customs daily.
Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to see and where to go. Colombia is a country that has worked hard to reshape its global image, and residents take pride in welcoming travelers who show awareness and respect. By learning what to avoid, you’ll likely blend in more naturally, reduce risks, and experience the country in a way that’s far more authentic.
This guide lays out the common missteps tourists keep making in Colombia. Whether it’s cultural behavior, street etiquette, or general safety awareness, these insights help you steer clear of misunderstandings and enjoy a smoother, more confident trip.
Read here the best Colombia travel tips and about the best Colombian food
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Quick Easy Tips
Dress modestly in non-tourist areas to avoid unwanted attention and show respect for local norms.
Avoid discussing sensitive historical topics unless a local brings it up first.
Don’t flash valuables such as expensive phones or jewelry while walking around.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially vendors or performers.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps instead of hailing vehicles on the street.
Many tourists underestimate how serious personal safety awareness is in Colombia. While the country has changed dramatically over the past decades, some neighborhoods still rely heavily on locals’ instincts and unwritten survival strategies. Travelers who assume that Colombia now mirrors fully modernized tourist hubs can be perceived as careless or naive, which locals often view with a mix of concern and frustration.
Another point of tension is how visitors talk about Colombia’s past. For locals, certain topics are still sensitive, painful, or overused by foreigners who base their curiosity on sensationalized media portrayals. When travelers approach these topics casually, it can come across as disrespectful or reductive. This is one of the biggest cultural missteps, even when the visitor has good intentions.
Finally, tourists often ignore social cues that Colombians consider basic courtesy, such as respectful dress in certain areas, mindful photography, or proper behavior at mercados and plazas. People may not confront a traveler directly, but that doesn’t mean the behavior goes unnoticed. The gap between what tourists view as normal and what Colombians expect continues to spark quiet yet widespread irritation.
Things Not to Do in Colombia
1. Don’t Assume Colombia is Dangerous Everywhere
Why Not:
Colombia has made significant progress in improving safety, especially in major tourist areas, but outdated stereotypes can lead to unnecessary fear.
What to Do Instead:
Research the areas you’re visiting and avoid high-risk regions as advised by travel alerts. Cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena are generally safe for tourists.
2. Don’t Discuss Drugs or Make Narco Jokes
Why Not:
Colombians are proud of their country’s progress and often resent its association with drug cartels or figures like Pablo Escobar.
What to Do Instead:
Focus on Colombia’s rich culture, music, and history in conversations. Avoid referencing Escobar unless locals bring it up.
3. Don’t Rely Solely on English
Why Not:
While English is spoken in some tourist areas, Spanish is the primary language, and knowing basic phrases will make interactions smoother.
What to Do Instead:
Learn simple Spanish phrases like:
“Hola” (Hello)
“Gracias” (Thank you)
“¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?)
4. Don’t Flash Valuables
Why Not:
Flashing expensive jewelry, phones, or cameras can make you a target for theft.
What to Do Instead:
Keep your valuables discreet, use a crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack, and avoid using your phone in crowded or isolated areas.
5. Don’t Drink Tap Water Everywhere
Why Not:
Tap water quality varies across Colombia. It’s safe in cities like Bogotá and Medellín but not in rural or coastal areas.
What to Do Instead:
Stick to bottled or filtered water in areas where tap water is unsafe.
6. Don’t Expect Punctuality
Why Not:
Colombians often operate on “Colombian time,” which can be more relaxed than in Western cultures.
What to Do Instead:
Be patient and flexible, but try to arrive on time for formal appointments or tours.
7. Don’t Overlook the Altitude in Bogotá
Why Not:
Bogotá sits at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, and the altitude can cause shortness of breath or fatigue.
What to Do Instead:
Acclimatize slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid intense physical activity during your first few days.
8. Don’t Underestimate Colombian Food
Why Not:
Assuming the cuisine is limited to stereotypes like arepas or empanadas misses out on its regional diversity.
What to Do Instead:
Try dishes like ajiaco (chicken soup), bandeja paisa (a hearty platter), and lechona (stuffed roasted pork). Don’t forget tropical fruits like lulo and guanabana.
Read here vegetarian food in Colombia, Colombian breakfast and Colombian drinks.
9. Don’t Skip Tipping
Why Not:
While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s appreciated in restaurants and for services like taxis and tours.
What to Do Instead:
Leave 10% in restaurants if the service is good. Tip tour guides and hotel staff small amounts for their assistance.
10. Don’t Assume Public Transport is Always Safe
Why Not:
Public buses and informal taxis can pose safety risks, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
What to Do Instead:
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, or Didi for safer transportation options, and stick to official taxis or buses during the day.
11. Don’t Ignore Local Laws
Why Not:
Breaking local laws, even unintentionally, can result in fines or legal trouble.
What to Do Instead:
Follow rules like respecting smoking bans in public places and avoid bringing restricted items like drones without proper permits.
12. Don’t Skip Researching Regional Differences
Why Not:
Colombia’s regions are diverse in culture, climate, and attitudes. What’s common in one area might be uncommon in another.
What to Do Instead:
Adapt your expectations and plans depending on where you’re visiting, from the Caribbean coast to the Amazon rainforest.
13. Don’t Assume Every Street Vendor is Legitimate
Why Not:
Some street vendors may sell counterfeit or low-quality products, especially in tourist areas.
What to Do Instead:
Be cautious when buying goods from street vendors and negotiate prices if necessary.
14. Don’t Take Photos Without Permission
Why Not:
Taking pictures of people without asking, especially in rural or indigenous communities, can be considered intrusive or disrespectful.
What to Do Instead:
Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals or their property.
15. Don’t Forget to Bargain in Markets
Why Not:
Prices in local markets are often inflated for tourists, and bargaining is expected.
What to Do Instead:
Negotiate politely to get a fair price for goods like handicrafts or souvenirs.
16. Don’t Ignore Personal Safety at Night
Why Not:
Some areas can be unsafe after dark, even in major cities.
What to Do Instead:
Avoid walking alone at night, stick to well-lit areas, and use trusted transportation options.
17. Don’t Expect Fast Internet Everywhere
Why Not:
Internet speeds in rural areas or small towns can be slow or unreliable.
What to Do Instead:
Download maps, tickets, and important information in advance if you’re heading to remote areas.
18. Don’t Disrespect Indigenous or Afro-Colombian Communities
Why Not:
Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities are integral to Colombia’s culture and history, and disrespect can offend locals.
What to Do Instead:
Learn about their customs, support local artisans, and participate respectfully in cultural tours.
19. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Why Not:
Accidents, illnesses, or theft can happen, especially when participating in adventure activities.
What to Do Instead:
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and activity-related incidents.
20. Don’t Assume All Coffee is the Same
Why Not:
Colombia is famous for its high-quality coffee, but most locals drink tinto (a basic black coffee), which is different from specialty brews.
What to Do Instead:
Visit coffee farms or specialty cafes to enjoy freshly brewed Colombian coffee.
21. Don’t Forget to Respect Personal Space
Why Not:
Colombians are friendly, but maintaining personal space is important in formal settings or with strangers.
What to Do Instead:
Greet people with a handshake or a cheek kiss, depending on the context.
22. Don’t Ignore the Importance of Soccer
Why Not:
Soccer (fútbol) is a national passion, and dismissing it can alienate locals.
What to Do Instead:
Watch a match or chat with locals about their favorite teams, like Atlético Nacional or Millonarios.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Colombia becomes far more enjoyable when you approach the experience with cultural awareness and humility. The country’s rich identity is shaped by a complex history, diverse regional traditions, and a strong sense of community. When you take the time to understand the expectations and social rhythms, you’ll find that Colombians are eager to share their warmth and hospitality.
Avoiding common mistakes not only protects you but also strengthens the connection you form with the places you visit. Simple adjustments in behavior go a long way in showing that you value the culture and environment you’re exploring. In return, locals often respond with openness, helpfulness, and pride in sharing their country’s beauty.
Ultimately, mindful travel allows you to enjoy Colombia on a deeper level. By respecting local customs, staying aware of your surroundings, and appreciating the subtleties of daily life, your trip becomes more than just sightseeing. It becomes an experience rooted in understanding, authenticity, and genuine connection.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.