Visas and border crossings
Always check the embassy website of the country you visit for visa requirements
and border crossing procedures, as these can change unexpectedly.
Traffic and Road conditions
Remember that Colombians drive on the right-hand side of the road. The tropical
heat, as well as the high mountains, can make long-distance cycle touring a
challenge. Traffic laws in Colombia, including speed limits, are often ignored and
rarely enforced, be vigilant. Although most roads are paved, only some are in good
condition.
Health and safety hazards – (please check the CDC website https://
wwwnc.cdc.gov)
The dengue virus is a leading cause of illness and death in the tropics and
subtropics. As many as 400 million people are infected yearly. Dengue is caused by
any one of four related viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. Unfortunately, there are
not yet any vaccines to prevent infection with the dengue virus, and the most
effective protective measures are those that avoid mosquito bites.
Inoculations
Infectious diseases are a rare cause of serious illness in Southeast Asia. However,
becoming ill on the way is relatively common and may include respiratory
infections, diarrhoea, and dengue fever. Most of these illnesses can be either
prevented or treated locally. Always pack personal medication. Getting a rabies
shot before going on a cycling holiday may be a good idea. If we encounter a rabid
dog, he will most likely go for those pedalling legs! Under normal circumstances, a
chasing dog will soon lose interest when you stop pedalling.
Recommended Vaccinations
Specialised travel medicine clinics can advise which vaccines are recommended for
your trip. Some vaccines require multiple injections spaced out over a certain
period; start the process six weeks before departure. The World Health
Organization (WHO) recommends the following vaccinations for travellers to
Colombia:
Adult diphtheria and tetanus
Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B
Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
Polio
Typhoid
Varicella
Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis)
Yellow Fever