Daily Budgets
Colombia is one of South America’s most affordable destinations, and your daily budget will vary depending on your style of travel:
- Budget Traveler: Around $33/day (~135,000 COP)
- Mid-range Traveler: Around $72/day (~300,000 COP)
- Luxury Traveler: $115+/day (~475,000 COP and up)
Expect to spend more in cities like Bogotá and Medellín, and less in smaller towns.
Money Logistics: Cash vs. Cards
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Colombian cities, cash is still king in many situations. Street vendors, markets, buses, and smaller eateries usually require pesos.
ATMs are plentiful, and exchange houses are available in airports and tourist areas. Carry a mix of cash and cards to stay flexible.
ATM Strategy
To avoid unnecessary fees and risks:
- Withdraw larger amounts: ATMs often charge fixed fees (around $4–7 per transaction).
- Best banks: Use Davivienda and Colpatria, which allow higher withdrawal limits.
- Decline currency conversion: Always choose to withdraw in COP to avoid poor exchange rates.
Tipping Culture
Tipping in Colombia is straightforward:
- Restaurants: A 10% service charge is usually added automatically.
- Tours: Tip 10–20% for paid tours; free walking tours usually rely on tips ($5–10 is fair).
- Hotels: Small tips for housekeeping or porters are appreciated but not mandatory.
Common Costs
- Street food (empanada/arepa): 3,000–10,000 COP ($0.75–$2.50)
- Menú del día (set lunch): 15,000–20,000 COP ($3.50–$5)
- Coffee: 6,000–8,400 COP ($1.40–$2)
- Beer: ~6,000 COP ($1.50)
- Mid-tier restaurant meal: ~$10–15 per person
- Taxi ride in Bogotá: ~$2–5, depending on distance
- Hostel bed: ~$16; Private room: ~$24+
A Day-in-the-Life Example
A mid-range traveler in Bogotá might spend:
- Accommodation: $24
- Meals: $15
- Transport: $8
- Activities: $10
Total: ~$57/day, comfortably within a mid-range budget.
Money-Saving Hacks
- Withdraw larger sums to reduce per-transaction fees.
- Use Davivienda or Colpatria ATMs for higher limits.
- Decline dynamic currency conversion at ATMs.
- Use cash for small purchases; save cards for hotels and tours.
Bonus Tip: Dominican Republic E-Ticket
Planning to extend your trip to the Caribbean after Colombia? If you’re heading to the Dominican Republic, don’t forget about the mandatory E-Ticket for entry and exit. This online form combines immigration and customs information into one digital process.
You can apply quickly and securely through eticket-dom-rep.com, receive your QR code by email, and skip unnecessary delays at the airport. It’s a smart step if your Colombian adventure continues onto tropical beaches.
Final Thoughts
Colombia remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in South America. With a smart ATM strategy, awareness of tipping customs, and knowledge of typical costs, you can enjoy the country without financial surprises. And if your travels take you to the Dominican Republic next, make sure you’re ready with your E-Ticket in hand.