Currency - Columbia has their own currency and uses the Columbian Peso. Dollars are accepted at banks and money changers. Do not be surprised if they thoroughly check the bills as counterfeiting is a big problem. Credit cards are accepted at most local businesses.

Customs - Most items are acceptable to bring into the country. Anything that seems out of place, might be subject to additional search. Drugs are illegal as the country has tried to crack down on the manufacturing of illegal drugs. As a general rule a moderate amount of cigarettes and alcohol is acceptable.(Usually 200 cigarettes, 1-2 liters of liquor, and 1-2 boxes of cigars.) Check with the Columbian Embassy in your country or go to their website for any specific concerns.

Medical Care - Health care is widely available in almost all the bigger cities and falling off to smaller clinics in the rural areas. Most visitors will want to prepare themselves for travel to Columbia by updating their shot records and immunizations. Doctors will ask for payment in cash so be prepared to pay even if you bought travelers insurance. Visitors should check with their own insurance companies as well as travel insurance policies before traveling to see what documents they will need for reimbursement. Most travelers may want to protect themselves even further by getting vaccines for: cholera, hepatitis A/B, malaria, tetanus, typhoid fever, and yellow fever. If your planning on traveling to the lower basins these should be carefully considered as mosquito populations are high due to standing water.

Electricity - The electrical current of Columbia is 110 volts. The plug style is the same as used in the United States.

Population - The population is around 43 million and grows due to a more conservative law banning abortion. Contraceptives are available, but are not widely used.

Language - Spanish is the nation language of Columbia. Terms and words used is day to day conversations may be varied from region to region.

Important Phone Numbers - Country Code (57), Police (112), Ambulance (125), Fire (119), Directory Assistance (1235).