Staying Healthy in Colombia

Staying Healthy

Some travelers to Bogota, the capital, experience altitude sickness (the capital is located at 8,600 feet above sea level). To avoid symptoms, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol the first day you arrive.

The tap water in Bogota, Pereira, Manizales, Medellin is very pure, while water outside major cities and in coastal cities can be contaminated. In those areas, drink only bottled water and make sure that the water served in restaurants comes from a bottle (the server will usually open it in front of you). When ordering a drink, ask for it “sin hielo,” without ice.

Dengue fever, malaria, and yellow fever (especially in forests along the Atlantic Coast) can be cause for concern in some regions; consult your doctor or the World Health Association website about vaccinations and other travel-related medical recommendations. Please note that our travel consultants cannot give medical advice.