Learn why trekking in Colombia and its experiences are affordable for travelers.

When planning a trip, it is recommended to consider those destinations that stand out for their beauty and biodiversity or that offer value for money, taking into account the fluctuation of local currencies against major world currencies such as the dollar, euro and pound sterling. Colombia offers international travelers the best of both worlds.

In this article, we’ll explore why Colombia is the ideal trekking destination, how exchange rates make the experience affordable and what places you can’t miss on your adventure.

1. Colombia: A trekking paradise

Colombia is a natural and diverse gem for trekking enthusiasts, with landscapes ranging from Andean mountains to Caribbean beaches and tropical jungles. It is one of the most affordable ecotourism destinations for international travelers, thanks to the favorable relationship between the world’s major currencies against the Colombian peso. If you are deciding your next destination, this variable offers opportunities to enjoy adventure activities and connection with nature at a low budget.

Located in the northeast of the American continent, it is distinguished by its strategic location between the Caribbean Sea in the North and the Pacific Ocean in the West. Likewise, this incredible country has the Amazon in the south, the Andes mountain range in the center and fertile lands in the east.

Colombia is world renowned for its biodiversity, which allows for a wide variety of trekking experiences in different ecosystems. From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the virgin jungles of the Amazon, the country offers unique routes that attract hikers from all over the world. There are even special destinations such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest coastal mountain in the world that is home to one of the best-rated budget hiking trails in South America: La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), known as the “Colombian Machu Picchu”.

This trek, located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, passes through dense rainforests and indigenous communities, providing an unparalleled cultural and natural connection. Other outstanding treks include the Cocora Valley, home to the world’s famous tallest wax palms, El Cocuy National Park, with its towering snow-capped peaks, and the Nevado del Ruiz Volcano Trek, where the volcanic landscape blends with natural hot springs.

2. Currency exchange in Colombia: An advantage for international travelers

One of the reasons Colombia is such an affordable destination is its currency, the Colombian peso (COP), which offers a significant advantage over currencies such as the U.S. dollar, euro, pound sterling and other international currencies.

Approximately, the current exchange rate (January 2025) is:

1 USD ≈ 4,000 – 4,200 COP

1 EUR ≈ 4,400 – 4,600 COP

1 GBP ≈ 5,100 – 5,200 COP

This means that a traveler from the UK, Europe or the US can experience great purchasing power in Colombia that will allow them to visit the best tourist spots in Colombia. From accommodation and transportation to meals and activities, the money yields considerably more, allowing complete trekking routes to be planned on a budget. For example:

A trekking tour such as Ciudad Perdida can cost between $456 and $619 USD and includes everything you need such as transportation, local guides, meals and accommodation for several days and you have nothing else to worry about. Book a tour with Expotur

Boutique accommodations in key cities such as Santa Marta, Medellin or Bogota can be available for less than $50 USD per night. The average value per night in 3, 4 and 5 star hotels is quite affordable. Also, for travelers looking for more options on a budget, there is a wide variety of hostels for less than $25 USD per night.

3-star hotels: $40 – $60 USD per night.

4-star hotels: $70 – $100 USD per night.

5 star hotels: $100 – $150 USD per night.

Hostels: $15 – $25 USD per night.

The average cost of renting a car in Colombia is approximately $55 USD per day. Small cars tend to be cheaper, with prices around $37 USD per day, especially in low season months.

3. The dream trekking route in Colombia

Thanks to the favorable exchange rate of the Colombian peso against other currencies, travelers can plan complete itineraries that include multiple trekking destinations in Colombia and beautiful approaches to biodiversity. Colombia has six biomass or bioclimatic landscapes, tropical rainforests, tropical savannas, deserts, mangroves, wetlands, páramos, and cloud forests. Here we suggest some must-see places for your next visit:

 

• The Lost City – La Ciudad Perdida (Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta): An unmissable trek in your visit to Colombia. A 4 to 6 day hike that combines indigenous history, natural landscapes and spectacular views that show you the greatness of the country.

• Cocora Valley (Quindío): Ideal for beginner trekkers, this trek offers green landscapes with the iconic wax palms, the tallest in the world with the best instagrammable spots.

• El Cocuy (Boyacá): For the most experienced, its routes offer views of glaciers, lagoons and snow-capped peaks that will test you and make you the envy of your friends.

• Tayrona National Park: A unique coastal experience that combines trekking with paradisiacal beaches such as Cabo San Juan. An ideal place to spend the night and enjoy the sound of the sea.

• Nevado Santa Isabel Trek: A Volcano hike in the Eje Cafetero, perfect for those seeking cool climates and unique views.

• Punta Gallina and Cabo de la Vela (La Guajira): The combination between the magic of the desert and its perfect harmony with the sea. This destination is a route full of biodiversity that will allow you to visit the northernmost point of South America.

Now you know Colombia is a biodiverse country that will allow you to make the most of trekking in unique and different conditions, taking with you the best memories of your life.

4. The Lost City: Everything you need to know about the best rated trek in South America

The Lost City Trek is one of the most outstanding ecotourism experiences in Colombia. If you had time to visit only one destination in Colombia on your next trip, this would be the most recommended. Santa Marta will be in this case the city you should opt for in Colombia.

Once in Santa Marta La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) is located in the Sierra Nevada, a unique mountain high above the Caribbean Sea, with snow-capped peaks that reach 5,775 meters above sea level, making it the highest mountain range in the world facing the sea. On its slopes live four important indigenous communities of Colombia: Kankuamo, Kogui, Wiwa and Arhuaco.

Departing from Santa Marta, arriving at Ciudad Perdida involves a trek of several days through the impressive biodiversity of the jungle. The Ciudad Perdida has an architecture based on elaborate terraces with a layout never seen before in any ancient city in the Americas. Because of its location, this trek offers international travelers a budget friendly alternative if they are adventure, nature and wellness activities enthusiasts. Imagine how in a single experience you will be able to observe the great richness of one of the most biodiverse areas of Colombia and connect with ancestral communities. You may be interested in Tour to Ciudad Perdida with Expotur

In Ciudad Perdida, you will have the opportunity to experience the authentic lifestyle of the farmers and indigenous communities. The accommodations along the way, although simple, are equipped with the essentials to guarantee your comfort and well-being. You will have bunk beds, shared spaces to rest, and areas to wash and eat.

The best time of year to visit Ciudad Perdida in Santa Marta is during the dry season, which runs from December to March and from July to August. During these months, conditions are more favorable for trekking because the trails are drier and the rivers do not flood as much. However, you should always keep an eye on the weather, because it can rain when you least expect it, and don’t forget to book in advance if you want to avoid the crowds of the high season!

Tips for booking safely and making the most of the currency exchange rate:

1. Choose Authorized Agencies: Make sure you book with recognized and authorized tour operators. Expotur is one of the few agencies officially authorized to operate the trek to Ciudad Perdida. With more than x years of experience, they guarantee a safe and quality service with respect for the local indigenous communities. They offer daily departures from Santa Marta and all inclusive tours. Book a tour with Expotur
2. Consult Cancellation Policies: Research about cancellation and refund policies in case of unforeseen circumstances.
3. Use the Favorable Exchange Rate in your favor: Buy your trekking on days when your country’s currency has a strong performance against the Colombian peso. This can help you save significantly on the experience.

5. Air connections to start your adventure

Another advantage of budget friendly travel in Colombia is that once you decide on your ideal route, you can select any of the main international airports that serve as a starting point for any trekking itinerary. Major air connections include:

• Bogota (El Dorado Airport): Main entry point for international flights. It is one of the most connected airports in Latin America and the world.
• Medellín (José María Córdoba Airport): Ideal for exploring routes in Antioquia and Colombia ‘s coffee region.
• Cartagena (Rafael Núñez Airport): A key option for those seeking to combine trekking with historical and cultural tourism.
• Santa Marta (Simón Bolívar Airport): Direct access point to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and La Ciudad Perdida.

Many international flights connect directly to Colombia from cities such as Miami, New York, Madrid, Frankfurt and London, which makes the arrival of travelers from Europe and North America easier

Once in Colombia, flights between major cities range from $40 – $100 USD each way (Bogotá-Cartagena, Medellin-Santa Marta, etc.).

6. Tips to get the most out of your money during your visit to Colombia

1. Pay in Colombian pesos: Using the local currency will allow you to make the most of the favorable exchange rate for you. Avoid paying in dollars or euros.
2. Use exchange applications: Tools such as Revolut or Wise offer excellent conversion rates and facilitate international payments. Check their exchange rates beforehand so you can be sure it is the best option.
3. Plan ahead: Book tours and accommodations in advance to get the best prices. You can book with us at expotur (Book here).
4. Avoid exchange houses at airports: Rates are always less favorable. Opt for withdrawing money from local ATMs or exchange houses.

Colombia is not only a perfect destination for trekking lovers because of its biodiversity and unique landscapes, but also because of its affordability for international travelers thanks to the exchange rate. From the north of Colombia to the south, the country offers unforgettable adventures without spending a lot of money. With its accessible air connections and growing tourism infrastructure, Colombia is ready to become your next trekking destination – don’t forget to book with us!