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It’s true what they say: solo travel has become the new trend, and it’s taking off quickly. Whether you’re a slow, digital worker, or just backpacking alone, the same question remains: where do I go first?
As someone who has traveled extensively solo myself, I can really speak to the positive impacts that traveling alone has. After traveling all over the world, South America was one of my favorite destinations to visit as a solo traveler.
While there are certainly still safety concerns to consider wherever you go, many travelers seem to share my thoughts on the country and its ranking. Colombia on their list of top destinations to travel solo in Latin America! As with any popular destination, it is generally safe to stay in the tourist areas.
You are not alone
Have you ever heard the saying, “When you travel alone, you are never truly alone?” Well, as someone who has done it multiple times: it’s true! There are always new friends to make, locals to meet and fellow travelers along the way: and Colombia is no exception.
If you’re staying in Medellin, El Poblado is an excellent hub for digital nomads and solo travelers. Poblado, one of the safest areas (and very close to the city), is truly a backpacker’s haven.
Nomad cafes, lively hostels and quirky bars: it’s definitely worth a visit.
BUT, you don’t have to limit yourself to just staying here. The entire country has a huge digital nomad/traveler scene.
You’ll find that all major cities in Colombia have spaces where remote workers can spend their days and welcome bars for those who are alone.
Solo travelers flock to this culturally diverse country. Sign up for a few day trips, explore the nightlife in Medellin, or stay in a few hostels – you will 100% meet some people who are in the same boat as you and make a new buddy or two!
Affordability is crucial
You know what one of my favorite things about visiting Colombia as a solo traveler is? The price tags!
Depending on where you go, a meal with a drink often costs less than €8, and a bottle of wine is usually around €5 – €6 (what a bargain!)
A tour of Colombia is also relatively cheap. If you’re traveling through Medellin, the train usually costs around 2,880 pesos ($0.73). Due to taxi-targeted scams taking place during my travels, I chose Cabify (the Colombian version of Uber, very affordable and safe for solo travelers) during my stay here.
If you’re on a budget, you may find that accommodations are a little cheaper than you might expect.
I stayed at a hotel off the coast of Isla Baru that was super affordable due to its beachfront location, and also spent some time at the Los Patios Hostel in El Poblado, Medellin.
While this hostel is definitely more expensive than most, it also has a rooftop bar, weekly activities, and pub crawls with the locals. However, if you just want to save money, there are many other options in Medellin and throughout Colombia.
Did someone say non-stop flights?
Depending on where you fly from in the US, there are many non-stop flight options to Colombia, and most take less than 4-6 hours! Like anywhere, it’s important to track flights to keep an eye on price changes (especially during low and high seasons).
Here are some nonstop flight options from the US
- Boston – Bogota – 6 hours
- Miami – Cartagena – 3 hours
- Miami – Bogota – 4 hours
- New York – Medellin – 5 hours
- New York – Cartagena – 5 hours
Culturally diverse
Colombia is a diverse center full of history, great food and friendly locals Cultural melting pot waiting to be discovered by everyone! If you’ve ever thought about visiting, now is the time.
When you walk through the neighborhoods in Colombia, you will encounter many different cultures, locals and expats. That makes the country so diverse and hospitable! There is a place for everyone who comes to visit and is looking for a home away from home.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
