COVID-19 UPDATE
Departing the U.S.: For the safety of everyone in the group, smarTours has implemented some COVID-19 travel requirements which apply to all tours regardless of destination. To learn more, click here.

Returning to the U.S.: In accordance with U.S. entry requirements, smarTours will arrange testing for the group in destination. Full details and requirements can be accessed here. More details including cost will be added when available.

Please note entry requirements are changing rapidly. For up-to-date information, please click the links below.

• Entry requirements
• State Department Travel Advisory Updates (Colombia)
• Center for Disease Control Updates & Information (Colombia)

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

The high altitude reached on this trip (up to 8,600 feet above sea level) requires that you be in good physical condition to enjoy this trip. We strongly suggest that you consult with your physician regarding any concerns as well as possible medications to ease the effects of the high altitude. Immunizations are NOT currently required; however, you may wish to consult your personal physician or local public health authorities as to their suggestions.

FLIGHT INFORMATION

Your flights from Miami to Colombia and back are on the following airlines with the following schedules. You should check-in for your flight at least 3 ½ hours before your scheduled departure.

Please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs if you are planning a connecting domestic flight. We recommend at least 3 ½ hours. Please keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change.

ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT

Avianca do not accept advance seat assignment. Actual seat assignment will be provided at the airport. Please note that smarTours is not involved with your seat assignments.

LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS

International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.

Main Tour Only: Land-only services start upon independent check-in at the hotel in Bogota on Day 1 of the itinerary listed on the tour page. Land-only services end after breakfast at the Cartagena hotel on Day 11 of the itinerary listed on the tour page.

PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION

You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of return. American passport holders do not require a visa. Non U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates as to the most current visa requirements to all their travel destinations. It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.

FOREIGN ENTRY FEE FOR CANADIANS ONLY

Canadian citizens are required to pay a Reciprocity Fee of approximately US $70 upon arrival in Bogota. The reciprocity fee may be paid credit card, debit card, or cash (Colombian pesos only).

TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS

Your airline tickets along with final instructions and travel tips will be sent to you 10 – 7 days before the scheduled departure of your tour.  Please make sure to advise us in writing in case of a change of your address.

CLIMATE

The temperature in Colombia is fairly consistent throughout the year, although it does vary by region. In Cartagena, you can expect weather in the high 70’s and 80’s. In the Coffee Triangle and Medellin, the average temperature is in the 60’s.  In Bogota, it is a bit colder, with average temperatures in the 50’s.

NON-INCLUDED MEALS

You may dine at either the hotels used on this tour or other nearby restaurants recommended by your guide. Average cost for dinner (excluding drinks) in the hotel’s restaurant is about $10-20 per meal per person. Your hotel will accept credit cards for your non-included meals.

CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY

Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards.  However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency.  Your hotels will be able to exchange your cash to local currency. You may also withdraw local currency from an ATM machine. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.

BAGGAGE

Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage not to exceed 44 pounds and one carry-on piece not to exceed 18”x10”x8”.