Getting there & around

Colombia was the first country in South America to have an airline: SCADTA was founded in 1919 and later became Avianca. It now has a well-developed airline system and one of the densest networks of domestic flights in Latin America. In 2002, Avianca, the relatively new Aces, and Medell?n-based Sam entered into an alliance known as Alianza Summa which now controls about three-quarters of domestic air traffic. Airfares are relatively high but some of the newly established airlines offer promotional fares that can be ridiculously cheap. Remember to reconfirm your reservations at least 72 hours in advance and be prepared for rescheduled or postponed flights. There is a USD4.00 airport tax on domestic flights.

Buses provide the main means of getting around the country and are cheap, efficient and extensive. Unfortunately the roads, except for main routes, often defy description. Getting around the cities by bus can be slow and they are usually crowded, but taxis are excellent value and can be chartered for long distances.

Other forms of transport include chivas (an old-style, wooden bus used primarily on outback roads) and collectivos (a cross between a bus and taxi, used on fixed routes). There is no train service within the country and independent travel (car or motorcycle) is not recommended as it is both expensive and dangerous. Water transport, especially along the Pacific coast where no roads exist, is irregular and primitive.

Colombia's location at the northern edge of South America means it has good and relatively cheap air links with both Europe and North America. Most visitors fly to Colombia's major international airport in Bogot?. The other international airports include Cartagena, Barranquilla, Medell?n, Cali and San Andr?s. The airport tax on international flights is USD28.00 if you have stayed in the country up to 60 days and USD44.00 if you have stayed longer.

The country has road connections with Venezuela and Ecuador only. Travellers planning to use the dangerous Arauca-El Amparo de Apure border crossing or the Puerto Carre?o-Puerto P?ez crossing into Venezuela should consult their embassy first to assess the security situation.

Don't even think about entering Colombia from Panama via the Dari?n Gap. The trek through the jungle is extermely dangerous due to guerrilla activity.

Ports on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts make it possible to arrive or leave by boat. Sea traffic is busier on the Caribbean side: boats are frequently coming and going between the USA, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean islands and Venezuela. Colombian ports on the Caribbean include Baranquilla, Cartagena, Santa Marta and Turbo; its major Pacific port is Buenaventura.

Visitors from Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa if staying less than 30 days as a tourist. Visitors from most Western European countries, Japan and the USA do not need a visa if staying less than 90 days as a tourist. Other passport holders should check visa status with Colombian consular representation before departure.