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Bogota Travel Checklist

Bogota Travel Checklist

Bogota Bogota Dc, Colombia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations Timeline

A structured timeline helps organize important tasks, from passport validity to daily packing.

Your Planning Journey

Break down your travel preparations into manageable steps.

3M

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Confirm passport validity (6+ months) and research visa requirements for Colombia.

Book Flights & Insurance

Secure international flights. Research and buy travel insurance from World Nomads.

Health Consultation

Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for Colombia.

1M

Month Before

Accommodations & Tours

Book your hotels/hostels and major tours.

Airport Transfers

Arrange airport transfers for arrival and departure.

Language & Documents

Use basic Spanish phrases. Make copies of important documents.

1W

Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all reservations (flights, hotels, tours).

Packing & Banking

Pack according to climate. Inform your bank of travel plans.

Apps & Currency

Download essential apps. Plan ATM withdrawals or exchange some currency.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these useful items well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Reservations

  • International flights.
  • Hotels or hostels.
  • Popular day trips or tours (e.g., Salt Cathedral + Guatavita).
  • Fine dining restaurants, especially on weekends.

Pre-Trip Research & Home Prep

Thorough research and home arrangements ensure peace of mind during your travel.

Recommendations & Arrangements

  • Read up on Bogotá's history, culture, and current events.
  • Familiarize yourself with local security guidelines.
  • Arrange pet care, mail hold, or house-sitting services.
  • Secure your home and pay any upcoming bills.

Digital Readiness & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are ready to help you navigate and stay connected.

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps (offline maps downloaded).
  • Google Translate (offline Spanish downloaded).
  • Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi, Cabify).
  • Moovit for public transport.

Connectivity Prep

  • Plan to purchase a local SIM upon arrival.
  • Consider a portable Wi-Fi device or international roaming.
  • Pack universal power adapters if needed.
  • Ensure all devices are fully charged before travel.

Document Digitalization

  • Scan passport, visa, and flight tickets.
  • Store copies securely on cloud services (e.g., Google Drive).
  • Email copies to yourself and a trusted contact.
  • Keep digital copies accessible offline on your phone.

Final Checks

Reconfirm all bookings and inform necessary parties of your travel plans. A little diligence here makes a big difference.

Arrival Checklist for Bogotá

Your initial steps on arrival in Bogotá to ensure a seamless transition.

First Steps at El Dorado Airport

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear procedures efficiently.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim:

    Collect your luggage promptly.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card:

    Consider purchasing a local SIM card for immediate connectivity.

Initial Orientation & Transport

  • Find Transport:

    Locate official taxi stands or your pre-booked transfer. Avoid unofficial solicitors.

  • Acclimatize:

    Head to your accommodation, drop bags, and take it easy for the primary day to acclimatize to altitude.

  • Neighborhood Walk:

    Walk around your immediate neighborhood for orientation.

Currency & Connectivity Upon Arrival

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport (rates could be different).

Use an ATM for Colombian Pesos for better rates.

Initial Purchases

Purchase a Tullave card for public transport (TransMilenio and SITP).

Acquire snacks and water for your first day.

Transport from Airport

Use official airport taxis or ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi, Cabify).

Avoid unofficial solicitors offering rides outside the terminal.

Smooth Arrival

Prioritize rest and getting oriented.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a departure that is as smooth as a arrival, covering souvenirs to airport procedures.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Dedicate time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Inquire about shipping services for large items.
  • Keep all receipts for customs purposes.
  • Consider packing special items in durable luggage, perhaps from Eagle Creek.

VAT Refund & Airport Timing

  • Colombia offers VAT refund (IVA) for tourists.
  • Collect receipts from eligible shops and process at the airport.
  • Allow ample time for airport transfer due to potential traffic.
  • Arrive 3 hours before an international flight, 2 hours for domestic.

Customs & Regulations

Be aware of import/export restrictions for a hassle-free departure.

Restrictions

  • Declare items above duty-free limits.Useful
  • Prohibited items: drugs, firearms, protected species.Strict
  • Cultural artifacts: require special permits for export.Important
  • Currency limits: report large sums of cash.Mandatory

Return Trip Logistics

  • Confirm your return flight details.
  • Pack efficiently, leaving space for souvenirs.
  • Ensure all necessary documents for re-entry to your home country.
  • Consider local transport options to the airport.

Return Ready

A well-organized departure makes the end of your trip as stress-free as possible.

Reflect on your Bogotá journey and start planning your next adventure!

Bogota Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation