Fun Culture Shocks of Visiting Colombia
Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re thinking about visiting Colombia, be prepared for some surprises. This incredible South American nation is full of charm, beauty, and diversity, but many travelers have misconceptions about it. From its reputation to its cuisine, Colombia will leave you both impressed and amazed. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect on your first visit—prepare to be shocked!
Safety in Colombia
When many people think of Colombia, they immediately recall its past—cocaine cartels, Pablo Escobar, and violence. But it’s not the 1980s or ’90s anymore. Today, Colombia is much safer and offers a welcoming environment for tourists. This is often a pleasant shock for travelers who are used to hearing about Colombia’s darker past. You can explore cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena safely, as long as you use common sense, just like in any other major city.
Biodiversity and Cultural Diversity
Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world! Whether you’re looking for deserts, rainforests, beaches, or mountains, Colombia has it all. From snorkeling in the Caribbean waters to hiking in the Amazon, the natural beauty here is endless.
What’s also shocking is the cultural diversity between regions. Visiting Bogotá feels completely different from being in Cartagena or Medellín. Each city has its own vibe, traditions, and even accents. It’s like traveling to multiple countries all within one trip!
Colonial Architecture
One of the most charming aspects of Colombia is its stunning colonial architecture. Cities like Cartagena are filled with gorgeous buildings featuring iron-wrought balconies, historic churches, and vibrant plazas. Villa de Leyva is a perfect example of this with its picturesque square and well-preserved colonial charm. Even in the larger cities, you’ll find colonial influences integrated with modern skyscrapers, creating a unique and beautiful contrast.
The Chiva Party Buses
For a fun and quirky experience, hop on a Chiva party bus in Cartagena. These open-air buses come complete with a DJ, dancing, and drinks. They’re a rolling party on wheels, often stopping at various clubs so you can jump off, grab a drink, and then continue dancing all night. It’s definitely something you won’t forget!
Street Vendors Everywhere
Colombia is packed with street vendors. Whether you’re in a bustling city or relaxing on the beach, you’ll encounter vendors selling everything from food and drinks to hats and souvenirs. In Cartagena, don’t be surprised if you’re offered a carriage ride six times in one evening or if someone insists on giving you a “free” massage (spoiler: it’s not really free!). While the constant offers can be overwhelming, the snacks, like empanadas and fresh fruit, are often worth trying.
Colombian Cuisine
Prepare to be blown away by the food in Colombia. One of the biggest surprises is that Colombians love soup for breakfast! Dishes like changua (a traditional soup made with eggs, milk, and bread) or caldo (a hearty beef broth) are common breakfast options.
Another shock? The sheer amount of cheese in everything. Cheese in soups, cheese in breads, and even cheese in hot chocolate. Yes, Colombians melt white cheese into their hot chocolate, and it’s surprisingly delicious—a unique blend of savory and sweet.
Colombian food is full of surprises, from the incredible amount of fresh fruit (lulo juice is a must-try) to the number of potato varieties you’ll encounter in just one meal. Seafood along the coast is phenomenal—don’t miss out on dishes like ceviche or fried fish with coconut rice.
Street Art Galore
Colombia’s cities are vibrant with incredible street art, especially in Bogotá and Medellín. It’s not just graffiti, but actual street art with stunning murals that give character to the cities. Many travelers are shocked by the artistic talent on display throughout the country.
Avocado Heaven
You can’t escape avocado in Colombia—and why would you want to? Avocado accompanies just about every meal, from breakfast to dinner. Whether it’s grilled at a family barbecue or served alongside your arepa, Colombia’s love for avocados is something you’ll quickly get used to.
Surprising Coffee
Despite being one of the world’s largest coffee producers, many tourists are surprised to find that Colombia’s everyday coffee, called tinto, isn’t as rich as they expect. The best coffee beans are often exported, so you’ll need to visit specialty cafes to get that amazing coffee experience you’re looking for. But don’t worry—good coffee can still be found if you know where to look!
So, if you’re planning a trip to Colombia, prepare to be shocked in the best possible way. From the safety and hospitality to the diverse landscapes, architecture, and delicious food, Colombia is a destination that will keep you on your toes. Have you been to Colombia? What surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments! Safe travels, everyone!