The diversity of the country may astonish you. Modern cities with skyscrapers and nightclubs, Gorgeous Caribbean beaches, Jungle walks and Amazon safaris, Colonial cities, archaeological ruins, high-mountain trekking, whale watching, coffee plantations, scuba diving, the list goes on.

Colombia is one of the South American countries closest to Canada and frequent air connections both direct and via the US make travel to this interesting destination easy and economical. Once in Colombia the traveler benefits from the great variety this country has to offer from cosmopolitan Bogota, the capital, to the Caribbean coast, the UNESCO treasure of Cartagena and the beaches of Santa Marta, to the natural attractions of the Sierra Nevada and the unspoiled Amazon region. Colombia has a well-earned reputation for its many regional cuisines and, wherever the traveler is in the country, the smiling hospitality of the people insure happy memories for years to come.

Colombia is fast becoming recognized as a premier destination for eco-tourists who will find something for every interest among the 246 protected natural areas and national parks in the country. Here again the variety of environments represents a surprising range from mountain valleys and highland forests, to pristine Caribbean beaches and lush Amazon jungle. Fresh and salt water fishing, white-water rafting, horseback and hiking treks, or the great sport of shopping, Colombia has it all.

What you should know:

Canadian Citizens traveling as tourists require a valid passport but no visa. Travelers must be in possession of an airline ticket onward from Peru or to their point of origin.

Capital                      Bogota

Official language    Spanish

Currency                   Peso 

Voltage                     110 V