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Monteria Travel Resources

Monteria Travel Resources

Monteria Cordoba, Colombia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Organize your trip effectively with a chronological planning timeline.

Your Journey Timeline

Plan your preparations across phases for a good-organized trip.

3M

Months Before Departure

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond stay) and apply for visas.

International Flights

Book international flights to Colombia (e.g., Bogotá or Medellín).

1M

Month Before Departure

Local Travel

Purchase domestic airfare to MTR or long-distance bus tickets.

Accommodations

Book all lodging in Monteria and for any planned day trips.

Financial Notices

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

1W

Week Before Departure

Confirmations

Validate all reservations (flights, hotels, tours, transfers).

Packing & Docs

Pack bags based regarding the weather; print or digitize all travel documents.

Currency & Apps

Exchange currency; get offline maps and translation apps.

Required Bookings

Secure these ahead of time to avoid last-minute complications.

Reservations

  • Flights: International flights to Colombia and domestic to MTR.
  • Hotels: Book, especially during high season or major festivals.
  • Specialized Tours: Any specific tours or private transfers planned.
  • Long-Distance Buses: For inter-city travel within Colombia.

Research Areas

Familiarize yourself with crucial information before your trip.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

  • Read current travel advisories for Colombia from your government.
  • Examine local customs, etiquette, and safety instructions for Monteria.
  • Get to be aware of basic Spanish phrases to assist communication.

Before You Leave Home

Ensure your home matters are handled for peace of mind while traveling.

Secure Your Residence

  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Have your plants watered.
  • Clear out garbage before departure.
  • Set timers for lights.

Work & Bills

  • Set up out-of-office replies for work email.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Consider automating payments.
  • Inform colleagues of your absence.

Pet Care & Itinerary

  • Arrange for pet care if applicable.
  • Ensure pet sitters possess emergency contacts.
  • Inform someone you trust about your travel plans.
  • Share your contact details while abroad.

Plan Ahead for a Relaxed Trip

Essential preparations arranged by timeline are here. Arrival and departure checklists guide your initial and concluding steps. Recommendations for pre-trip research and home preparation mean you consider every detail.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new destination can feel overwhelming. This checklist helps navigate your arrival smoothly.

Initial Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Clear immigration along carrying your passport and any required visa.

  • 2
    Luggage:

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Currency:

    Obtain Colombian Pesos from an airfield ATM for better rates.

Getting Oriented

  • SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card, available at the airport or in the city.

  • Transport:

    Arrange transportation from MTR to your accommodation.

  • Neighborhood:

    Familiarize yourself with your immediate surroundings and amenities.

Essential Services

Currency Exchange

Use an ATM at the airport for the best exchange rates.

Avoid exchanging large amounts at airport kiosks; rates often prove less favorable.

SIM Card Purchase

SIM Card Purchase

Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity within Monteria.

Available at the airport or various stores in the city for easy access.

Airport Transfer

Arrange transportation from Los Garzones Airport (MTR) to your accommodation.

Use official airport taxis or a reputable ride-sharing app if not pre-arranged.

Welcome to Monteria!

Become acquainted with your immediate neighborhood around your accommodation. Locate the nearest ATM, pharmacy, and grocery store. Take a walk along the Ronda del Sinú for immediate orientation to the city's main artery.

Departure Preparation

Ensure an easy departure from Monteria and Colombia with these final steps.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Buy in Advance: Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Eagle Creek- Packing organizers help manage luggage allowance.
  • Shipping: Use reputable services like DHL, FedEx if sending items home.
  • Understand what you can bring back home.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

  • Colombia offers VAT refunds (IVA) for visitors on certain purchases.
  • Keep all original receipts for eligible goods over a specific value.
  • Fill out required forms at the marked VAT refund desk.
  • Complete the process prior to verifying in for your international flight.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow sufficient time to navigate airport procedures and travel.

Airport Arrival Guidelines

  • Domestic Flights (MTR):1.5 - 2 hours ahead
  • International Connection (Bogotá/Medellín):3+ hours ahead
  • Travel Time to Airport:Factor in potential traffic
  • Confirm Flight Details:24-48 hours prior

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Pack efficiently, ensuring all required documents are easily accessible.
  • Arrange for a timely check-out from where you are staying.
  • Keep boarding passes and passport readily available.

Safe Travels Home!

A well-prepared traveler journeys smoothly. Follow this checklist to manage your Monteria trip from start to finish.

May your return journey be as pleasant as your stay.