GENERAL INFORMATION
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LEGAL
By law, people are presumed innocent until convicted in Colombia. If you're
arrested you have the right contact your embassy. If you're in legal trouble you
have the right to a lawyer. Cooperate with the police at all times, but protect
your rights at all cost. If you feel that you are being questioned by the police for
no reason, tell the officers that you want to speak with their superiors. If you
still feel threatened, demand to speak with the commanding officer at a
station and to your embassy. The police are generally honest, if you're having
problems, you are most likely guilty of something or you look very suspicious.
TOILETS
You can find a bathroom in all locations. However, many toilet facilities are not in
the best conditions. Most toilets have a waste basket next to it for toilet paper.
It's important that you don't flush toilet paper in the toilet. Many plumbing
systems in Colombia get easily backed up by paper.
WATER
Travelers are advised to drink bottled and bagged water at all times. Although
the tap water in major Colombian cities is safe to drink, it's best for travelers to
lean on the side of caution. It's recommended to wash all fruit you buy on the
streets and stores with water to ensure its safe to consume. Travelers who have
not been in Latin America for long are urged to not eat food sold by street
vendors, since they may use water that is unsanitary.
BORDER CROSSING
Colombia has border crossings with Panama, Venezuela, and Ecuador. We
apologize, but at this time Explore Travel Guides Colombia has not covered
borders crossing into or out of Colombia.