Internet and Phones
With its contrasting colonial and modern cities, snow-capped volcanoes, tropical coastlines, plains and rainforest, Colombia is a great place to disconnect and relax. That said, for those who have to stay connected, here are our tips:
Most hotels in Colombia provide internet access (sometimes at a cost) and international telephones – although for calling home, you will likely receive better rates using an internet-based phone service such as Skype or WhatsApp. Do not expect good WiFi access in all locations, especially in remote lodges and on cruises. In particular, in Colombia, the Amazon, Pacific Coast, Los Llanos, and Providencia are remote areas and WiFi should not be relied on.
For heavy internet users, a service such as Skyroam, a wireless hotspot device might be your best option for connecting to the internet in Colombia. GlocalMe is another good hotspot option. If you plan on bringing your smartphone to Colombia, make sure to remember to leave it on airplane mode to avoid any roaming charges. Just enable WiFi to access the Internet.
We don’t recommend buying a cell phone or sim card in Colombia. There are often long waits, non-English speaking employees and local ID may be required. In addition, if you are traveling to multiple countries within South America, you will most likely need to buy a sim card for each. The easiest option for travel to Colombia is to get a plan with your carrier in your home country that allows you to make emergency calls and/ or receive texts. If you do choose to buy a sim card in Colombia, ask your guide where they recommend finding one and make sure your telephone is unlocked. Before traveling, consider checking about international call options and prices with your network provider.
Electrical Adaptors
When traveling to Colombia, we recommend taking an electrical adapter on your trip. Some hotels in Colombia provide adapters, but you should not rely on this. Before using adapters make sure to check the voltage of your electronic device to ensure that you have a charger equipped to handle a higher voltage. If not, you will need to use a voltage converter.
In some Amazon and Pacific Coast lodges electricity is not provided 24 hours a day. In remote areas power cuts are possible. It is always a good idea to take a flashlight with you.
Colombia uses plug types A and B. The standard voltage is 110 V and frequency 60 Hz.
This means:
When traveling from the USA or Canada to Colombia, you do not need any adaptors or convertors.
When traveling from Australia or New Zealand to Colombia, you will need an electrical adaptor and may need a voltage convertor.
When traveling from the UK, Ireland, Malaysia or Singapore to Colombia, you will need an electrical adaptor and may need a voltage convertor.
When traveling from South Africa to Colombia, you will need an electrical adaptor and may need a voltage convertor.
