Welcome to Bogotá, Colombia

Nestled high in the Andes, Bogotá is a city where tradition and modernity dance together in perfect harmony. Colombia’s vibrant capital is rich with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From its colorful colonial streets, to its world-class cuisine, lush mountain views, and the warmth of its people.

Whether you're wandering through bustling markets, sipping coffee in charming cafés, or watching the sunset from Monserrate, Bogotá offers an unforgettable experience at every turn.

We are so excited to share this special corner of the world with you. A place that holds deep meaning in our hearts as Paula´s hometown, and now, a place where we’ll create cherished memories together.

We invite you to let Bogotá surprise you with its beauty, flavors, and soul. Come with open hearts and curious spirits, Bogotá is ready to enchant you.

On this page, you’ll find helpful information about:

- Passport & entry requirements for traveling to Colombia from the U.S.

- Travel & flights

- Where to stay

- Transportation in Bogotá

- Phones, SIM cards & Wi-Fi in Colombia

- Currency & payments

- Language

- What to pack for Bogotá and Colombia

We hope this helps you feel prepared and excited for your trip to Colombia!

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Yes, you MUST have a valid passport to enter Colombia. It must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates. Make sure your passport is not damaged and has at least one blank page for the entry stamp.

Yes, U.S. passports are fully accepted for entry into Colombia.

No visa is required for U.S. citizens traveling to Colombia for tourism, for stays of up to 90 days. Just make sure:

1. Your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay (ideally 6 months beyond your return date).

2. You complete the Check-Mig online immigration form before your trip. Remember, this form must be filled out between 72 hours to 1 hour before your flight to Colombia. It’s free and quick to complete.

You can access it here:

https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/en

No vaccines are currently required for entry into Colombia from the U.S.

However, if you plan to visit certain rural or jungle regions, a Yellow Fever vaccine is recommended (not mandatory unless you're coming from certain countries in Africa or South America).

As of now, COVID-19 vaccines or tests are not required, but always check the airline or embassy website for the most up-to-date info before your trip.

There is no entry tax for U.S. tourists arriving by air to Colombia.

If you are carrying more than $10,000 USD in cash (or the equivalent in another currency) or high-value goods, you must declare them at customs upon arrival. Personal items such as phones, laptops, and cameras for personal use do not need to be declared.

In addition, all travelers entering Colombia must complete an online immigration form called Check-Mig, which is a mandatory pre-registration form issued by the Colombian immigration authority.

You must complete the form between 72 hours and 1 hour prior to your flight to Colombia. The process is free and only takes a few minutes.

It is ONE FORM PER PERSON, not one per family. This includes children and minors, who must also have their OWN form completed.

You can complete the form online here:

https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/en

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We can’t wait to welcome you to Colombia! Please make sure to book your flight to Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

This is the official and only arrival point for all wedding guests.

All accommodations are in Bogotá, so flying into BOG will ensure you’re right where you need to be.

Yes, there are several direct flights from major U.S. cities to Bogotá. While there are no direct flights from Charleston or Virginia, you can easily connect through cities like:

Washington D.C. (IAD)

Atlanta (ATL)

Miami (MIA)

Houston (IAH)

New York (JFK)

Airlines that commonly serve these routes include Avianca, Delta, American Airlines, United

No, transportation from the airport to your hotel is not included. However, you have three easy options once you arrive in Bogotá:

1. Book airport transportation through your hotel. When making your reservation (please check the “Where to Stay” section for the designated hotels for the wedding) you can often request a pickup service from the airport.

- Contact the hotel directly (by email or phone, usually listed on their website).

· Ask for an “airport pickup shuttle”.

· Provide: Your flight number, your arrival date and time and how many passengers + luggage

2. Take a taxi from the airport. Taxis in Colombia must be paid in cash and in Colombian pesos. (Please see the “Money & Currency” section for tips on exchanging dollars.)

3. Rent a car at El Dorado Airport. Several rental companies operate directly from the airport if you prefer to drive yourself.

Note: If you rent a car, keep in mind that drinking and driving is strictly prohibited

Note: We will be providing transportation exclusively from the designated wedding hotels to the Hacienda (Wedding venue) and back. To ensure everything runs smoothly, transportation will ONLY be available to and from these specific hotels on the day of the wedding.

If you wish to explore the city or make additional plans, we kindly ask that you arrange your own transportation.

More details will be shared in the “Where to Stay” section.

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Although we will all be staying in Bogotá, the wedding will take place at a beautiful hacienda located approximately one hour and thirty minutes outside the city.

To ensure your comfort and a smooth experience, we have coordinated transportation exclusively from some designated hotels in Bogotá to the hacienda and back.

For this reason, we kindly ask—and require—that all guests stay at one of these hotels, as it is the only way we can guarantee your transportation to and from the wedding venue.

If you choose to stay elsewhere, you are, of course, welcome to do so. However, please note that we will not be able to coordinate or provide transportation from any other location.

Thank you so much for understanding. We truly appreciate your flexibility and support as we plan this unforgettable day together! We want your experience to be joyful and seamless from start to finish.

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Getting around Bogotá is quite manageable, especially if you’re staying at one of the designated hotels. Here are your main options:

- Taxis: Readily available throughout the city. Please note that taxis in Colombia must be paid in cash (Colombian pesos). For safety, we recommend requesting a taxi through your hotel.

- Ride-sharing apps: Uber is commonly used and generally safe and reliable.

- Walking: In areas like 116, Zona G, Zona T, or Parque de la 93, walking during the day is a pleasant way to explore nearby restaurants and cafés.

- Rental cars: If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car directly at El Dorado International Airport.

Make sure to bring your driver’s license and a credit card, and check if your car insurance or credit card includes international coverage.

If you rent a car, keep in mind that drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.

Note: Traffic in Bogotá can be very heavy, especially during rush hours (7–9am and 4–7pm). Always allow extra time when heading to events, tours, or restaurants, especially the wedding! Planning ahead will help you avoid unnecessary stress.

Yes, Uber and other ride-sharing apps are commonly used in Bogotá. They are generally safe, though they operate in a legal gray area. Some things to keep in mind:

- ALWAYS confirm the car model and license plate in the app before getting in.

- Avoid ride-shares or taxis very late at night

Yes! We are providing round-trip transportation on the wedding day for all guests staying at the designated hotels.

Shuttles will take you to the Hacienda (wedding venue) and bring you back at the end of the night.

The exact pickup times and details are listed in the Wedding Itinerary at the top of the webpage, so please be sure to review that section carefully.

If you're staying at one of the official hotels, all you need to do is be ready at the designated pickup time. We’ll take care of the rest!

If you choose to stay at a different hotel, you are welcome to do so, but please note that you will need to arrange your own transportation to and from the venue, and we kindly ask that you let us know in advance.

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Most U.S. phones work in Colombia, but it depends on your mobile carrier and your specific plan.

Before traveling, we recommend contacting your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T Mobile, etc.) to confirm whether your plan includes international roaming in Colombia and what the potential fees may be.

Some carriers include limited international data, while others charge additional daily or usage based fees.

USING AN eSIM (OUR PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION)

When we travel to Colombia, we personally use an eSIM from Holafly, and it has worked extremely well for us.

The process is very simple:

• Purchase the eSIM online before your trip

• Follow the prompts on their website to install it on your phone

• Once you land in Colombia, simply activate your data

Your internet will begin working immediately, even before you get out of the airplane.

We highly recommend this option because it allows you to stay connected from the moment you arrive at El Dorado International Airport without needing to look for a store or change SIM cards.

If you would like to use this option, simply click the link below and follow the prompts on the website to purchase and install your eSIM before your trip.

https://esim.holafly.com/

Buying a SIM card in Colombia

If you prefer, you can also purchase a local SIM card when you arrive at the airport.

At El Dorado International Airport you will find kiosks from major Colombian carriers such as Claro, Movistar, and Tigo.

SIM cards are inexpensive (often under $10 USD), and you can purchase prepaid data plans that include internet, calls, and WhatsApp access for several days or weeks.

Please note:

• You will need to show your passport when purchasing a SIM card

• Your phone must be unlocked in order to use a foreign SIM card

Yes!

The designated hotels in Bogotá offer complimentary Wi-Fi for all guests.

The wedding venue (the hacienda) will also have Wi-Fi available, though signal strength may vary depending on the area.

You’ll also find free or password-protected Wi-Fi in many restaurants, cafés, and public spaces throughout the city (Just ask the staff for the network name and password).

We highly recommend connecting to Wi-Fi at El Dorado Airport as soon as you land if you don’t have an international data plan.

This will make it easy to check directions, access travel info, especially if you need to coordinate transportation, check directions or contact us directly through WhatsApp. The airport Wi-Fi is free and easy to access.

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NO.

U.S. dollars are NOT accepted for purchases in Colombia. You will need to pay in Colombian pesos for all local expenses.

The local currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP).

Prices are usually shown with a $ sign, but it's not U.S. dollars.

For example, $20,000 COP is approximately $5 USD (depending on the exchange rate).

We recommend bringing both cash and a credit card:

- Credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and large stores.

- However, cash (Colombian pesos) is essential for taxis, tips, street vendors, and small businesses, especially in more local areas.

Be sure to notify your bank that you’ll be traveling to Colombia to avoid any blocks on your cards.

Yes, there are plenty of ATMs throughout Bogotá, including at El Dorado Airport, shopping centers, and near the designated hotels.

Most ATMs accept international cards.

ATMs usually offer better exchange rates than currency exchange booths.

We recommend withdrawing pesos in the airport upon arrival, or at a trusted bank branch.

Tip: Always choose the option to be charged in local currency (COP) if asked.

Yes.

And it’s a great idea! You can contact your U.S. bank in advance to request Colombian pesos before your trip. Here's how:

- Call or visit your local bank branch (e.g. Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, etc.) and ask if they offer foreign currency exchange.

- Most major banks can order Colombian pesos for you. It may take 2–7 business days, so plan ahead.

This is a convenient way to have cash ready when you land, especially for your first taxi ride or snack at the airport.

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Not necessarily! While Spanish is the official language in Colombia, many travelers get by with just a few key words and a smile.

It’s helpful to know some basic phrases, but you don’t need to be fluent, especially in areas like airports and hotels.

Yes, staff at major hotels and El Dorado Airport usually speak at least basic English, and they’re used to assisting international travelers.

In restaurants, shops, or taxis, English may be less common, especially outside of tourist areas, so having a few Spanish phrases handy can be very helpful.

Don’t worry! If you’re ever unsure how to say something or need help understanding someone, you can use Google Translate on your phone to assist with communication.

Just remember, whether you’re using a few Spanish phrases or relying on your phone, Colombians are known for their kindness and patience. Even if there’s a bit of a language barrier, people will be more than happy to help you.

Your effort will be appreciated! and a smile truly goes a long way! 😊

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Colombia is a country without the traditional four seasons like the U.S. Instead, its climate varies greatly depending on the region and altitude. Since Colombia is located near the equator, the temperature stays fairly consistent year-round, but weather can differ a lot between cities.

Bogotá, where our wedding will be, is quite unique because of its high altitude, about 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) above sea level. This means Bogotá tends to be cooler than many other parts of Colombia. In September, expect cool, often chilly weather with frequent rain showers. Temperatures usually range from about 8°C (46°F) at night to 18°C (64°F) during the day.

Note: If you plan to travel beyond Bogotá and visit other cities like Cartagena, Medellín, or Barranquilla, be sure to check the local weather (of those cities) before packing. While Bogotá is always cool, many other parts of Colombia are warm and tropical year-round, with temperatures often in the 80s–90s °F (27–35°C). So pack accordingly if you’re heading to the coast or other regions!

For exploring Bogotá and nearby areas, bring comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket or umbrella (because of the frequent rain), and layers like sweaters or light jackets.

Sunglasses and sunscreen are good for daytime too since the sun is strong even on cold days.

(Yes, even if it feels cold cold cold!)

Yes! Colombia uses the same voltage (110V) and plug types (Type A & B) as the United States. That means:

-You won’t need a power adapter or voltage converter if you’re coming from the U.S.

-Standard U.S. chargers for phones, laptops, hair dryers, and other electronics will work just fine

Yes. And this is important to know for your comfort and to blend in with local customs:

- Bogotá is a stylish, urban city, and locals generally dress more formally and modestly, even for casual outings.

- Due to the cool climate and cultural norms of Bogotá, it’s not common to see women wearing shorts, skirts or very short dresses, especially in city settings.

- Likewise, men rarely wear shorts in Bogotá unless they’re exercising. Opt for jeans, slacks, or casual trousers instead.

A good rule of thumb: dress in layers, and go for smart-casual or neat everyday wear when out in public spaces like cafés, museums, or restaurants.

You don’t need to be fancy, but looking a little polished is appreciated in Bogotá culture.

And as always: a warm “Buenos días” and a kind smile will take you far.

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FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE ARRIVAL PROCESS IN COLOMBIA, INCLUDING IMMIGRATION, CUSTOMS PROCEDURES, AND THE DOCUMENTS YOU SHOULD HAVE READY TO PRESENT TO THE IMMIGRATION OFFICER, PLEASE VISIT THE “IMMIGRATION & CUSTOMS” TAB LOCATED AT THE TOP OF THIS PAGE.