Are you a digital nomad searching for your next adventure? Look no further than the vibrant and diverse country of Colombia. This South American gem boasts a rich tapestry of culture, stunning landscapes, and a growing digital nomad community. In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through the top cities to visit as a digital nomad in Colombia.
Colombia has undergone an impressive transformation in recent years, shedding its turbulent past to become a top destination for remote workers. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the picturesque beaches of Cartagena, each city provides a unique mix of traditional charm and modern amenities. With reliable wifi, affordable living costs, and a welcoming local culture, Colombia is a dream destination for those who seek a balance between work and exploration. So, pack your laptop and join us as we explore the best cities for digital nomads in this captivating country.
Why Choose Colombia?
Colombia has experienced an incredible transformation in recent years, leaving behind its turbulent past and emerging as a flourishing tourist hotspot. This cultural renaissance has also made it an ideal location for digital nomads. With its favorable visa policy, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, Colombia offers the perfect balance of work and play. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of Cartagena, dance the night away in Medellin, or explore the bustling streets of Bogota, Colombia has something for everyone.
Traveling to Colombia
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty details, let’s first address the practicalities of traveling to Colombia as a digital nomad. While safety concerns may have deterred travelers in the past, the country has made significant strides in improving its security infrastructure. With over 4 million tourists flocking to Colombia in 2018, it’s clear that the country is on the rise as a tourist hotspot. The European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, and Britain citizens can enjoy a 90-day visa on arrival, making it easier than ever to explore this beautiful country.
Weather in Colombia
Colombia’s diverse geography gives rise to a range of microclimates, meaning the weather can vary significantly from region to region. In the coastal cities of Cartagena and Barranquilla, expect hot and humid conditions year-round. If you prefer a cooler climate, head to the capital city of Bogota, where you’ll find pleasant temperatures and dry weather. For the ultimate weather experience, go to Medellin, which boasts sunny and warm conditions throughout the year. It’s no wonder many consider Medellin to have the best weather in the world.
Cost of Living in Colombia
One of the biggest advantages of being a digital nomad in Colombia is its affordability. Compared to other countries, Colombia offers the best value for money, making it an attractive destination for remote workers on a budget. You’ll find that your money goes a long way in this country, from accommodation to food, transportation to entertainment. Here’s a rough breakdown of average costs in Colombia:
- Flat with roommates: $150 USD
- Furnished studio: $500 USD
- Hostel bed: $7 USD
- Studio Airbnb: $11 USD
- Local meal: $3 USD
- Western meal: $8 USD
- 10-minute Uber ride: $4 USD
If you’re mindful of your expenses, you can easily get by on $25 a day, including accommodation, meals, and even a few Cervezas to unwind at the end of the day.
Accommodation Options in Colombia
When finding accommodation in Colombia, digital nomads are spoiled for choice. The country offers a range of options, from modern apartments to budget-friendly hostels. While hotels and hostels can provide a comfortable stay, the best value lies in long-term apartment rentals. Join Facebook groups dedicated to housing in Colombia to find the perfect apartment that suits your needs and budget.
Exploring Colombian Cuisine
Colombian cuisine may not be as well-known globally as other Latin American cuisines, but it has unique flavors. While local meals can be hearty and filling, they can also be somewhat bland. Expect dishes featuring meat, rice, beans, and plantains. If you’re seeking more diverse culinary options, cities like Medellin and Bogota offer a plethora of international cuisines, though at a higher cost. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Colombian dishes like Sancocho soup and coastal ceviche for a true taste of the country.
Getting Around Colombia
While Colombia does have public transportation options, including buses, taking an Uber is often the safest and most convenient way to get around the major cities. Uber provides accountability, with set prices and the ability to track your journey. The best part? Uber rides in Colombia are incredibly affordable, with 10+ minute rides costing less than $3 USD. Remember that while Uber is technically illegal in Colombia, it remains widely available and widely used by locals and tourists.
Internet Speeds in Colombia
As a digital nomad, reliable internet access is essential. Fortunately, Colombia offers accessible and reliable internet, particularly in the major cities. While internet speeds may not be the fastest in the world, you’ll find that most co-working spaces, cafes, and accommodations provide sufficient connectivity for your work needs. Upon arrival, consider purchasing a SIM card from Claro, Movistar, or Tigo, or visit the Oxxo store for assistance. With internet access sorted, you can embrace the digital nomad spirit and make the most of your time in Colombia.
Top Digital Nomad Cities in Colombia
Now that you understand the essentials let’s explore the top cities in Colombia for digital nomads. Each city offers its own unique blend of attractions, amenities, and opportunities for remote work. Colombia has it all if you’re seeking a vibrant nightlife scene, breathtaking views, or a tight-knit expat community. Here are the top five cities for digital nomads:
Medellin
In the Aburra Valley, Medellin is Colombia’s second-largest city and a digital nomad hotspot. With solid Wi-Fi connections, comfortable living options, and an average monthly cost of $1,095, it’s no wonder that Medellin is a top choice for remote workers. The city boasts a pleasant year-round temperature of 27-28 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal place to live and work. Medellin offers a range of co-working spaces, a vibrant nightlife, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Medellin has different neighborhoods, and for digital nomads, the top three places to stay are:
- El Poblado: It’s the most touristy part of Medellin, with many co-working spaces and backpacker hostels. Selina is a great hostel choice here. Keep in mind that Poblado is more expensive and not as authentically Colombian as other parts of the city.
- Laureles: It’s an upper-class residential area with a relaxed atmosphere. You can find popular nightlife spots like La 70 and Calle 33 here. The Wandering Paisa is a fantastic hostel in Laureles.
- Envigado: Envigado is a mix of backpacker and local living. It’s known for its beauty with restrictions on building height, lots of parks, and tree-lined streets. There are many cafes and co-working spaces here.
Bogota
As Colombia’s capital and largest city, Bogota provides a bustling urban environment for digital nomads. Although the wifi can be a bit slow in certain areas, Bogota compensates with its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and excellent nightlife. With an average monthly cost of $1,104, Bogota offers affordable living options for remote workers. The city’s moderate climate, ranging from 18 to 20 degrees Celsius year-round, ensures a comfortable working environment. Explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy Bogota’s lively music scene.
Bogota has three main areas to explore:
- La Candelaria: La Candelaria is the historic center of Bogota, known for its old houses, churches, and museums. It’s a great place for people who love culture, music, and art. It’s also one of the safest parts of the city, suitable for families and backpackers with different budgets.
- Chapinero: This is one of the wealthier neighborhoods in Bogota and is often used by travelers as a base for exploring the city. It has big shopping malls like Unilago, Avenida Chile, and Andina malls. You can also visit the lovely Parque del Chico!
- Usaquen: Usaquen is popular among all types of travelers and offers a mix of upscale hotels and budget hostels. The highlight here is the food, with authentic Colombian cuisine and street markets that make Usaquen famous.
Cartagena
Cartagena is the place to be if you’re dreaming of picturesque beaches and vibrant colonial architecture. This coastal city overlooks the Caribbean Sea and is famous for its historic Old Town and lively dance scene. While the wifi may be just okay, Cartagena’s affordability, with an average monthly cost of $1,509, and its 31-32 degrees Celsius year-round temperatures make it an alluring destination for digital nomads. Explore the colorful streets of Centro, immerse yourself in the local salsa culture, and take advantage of the city’s many co-working spaces.
Cartagena has three main areas to explore:
- Centro: This is the historic downtown area surrounded by strong stone walls. It’s a colorful place with something for everyone, from street food to fancy restaurants, luxury hotels to budget hostels, and relaxed bars to lively nightclubs.
- Getsemani: It’s a cool neighborhood known for its street art, lots of cafes, and lively nightlife. You can find affordable options here, and it’s close to Centro.
- Zona Norte: If you’re looking for the best beaches in Cartagena, this is the place. It’s a bit outside the main city, so it’s great for avoiding crowds. However, it’s not as close to the city’s other attractions.
Barranquilla
Less frequented by tourists, Barranquilla offers an authentic Colombian experience at an affordable price. With an average monthly cost of $989, it’s one of the cheapest cities to live in Colombia. While the wifi may not be as reliable as in other cities, Barranquilla compensates with its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a few co-working spaces. Experience the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival, indulge in delicious street food, and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. Just be mindful of the underdeveloped tourist side and take necessary safety precautions.
Barranquilla has three main areas to explore:
- Historic Downtown: This is the old part of the city where you can find most of the popular shopping spots and big hotels.
- Riomar: This area is by the river called Magdalena, and it’s a nice place with lots of hotels, spas, restaurants, and bars. It’s one of the wealthier parts of Barranquilla but still affordable for travelers.
- La Playa: This area up north is famous for its fishing and farming. It’s a beach area where you can enjoy the sea.
Cali
Cali is a paradise for dance enthusiasts and is known as the world’s Salsa capital. With its vibrant nightlife and affordable cost of living, averaging $1,049 per month, Cali attracts digital nomads seeking a lively and energetic atmosphere. While safety can be a concern in certain areas, Cali offers unique advantages such as cheap accommodation and cleaner air quality compared to other Colombian cities. Immerse yourself in the world of salsa, explore the historic landmarks, and enjoy the flavors of Cali’s street food.
Cali has several popular neighborhoods for tourists:
- El Penon, San Antonio, and San Cayetano: These three small, historic neighborhoods are known for their vibrant nightlife. They offer a variety of restaurants, parks, bars, hotels, and hostels. Many tourists prefer staying in these areas.
- San Fernando: This is another safe neighborhood with good budget accommodation options. It’s close to Parque del Perro, which is famous for its nightlife.
- Historic Center: Although much of Cali’s colonial architecture is gone, you can still find some in the historic center. Most quality accommodations are located near San Antonio in the western part of this area. However, walking around the downtown historic center at night is not recommended.
Working as a Digital Nomad in Colombia
Once you’ve settled in your chosen city, it’s time to establish your remote work routine. As a digital nomad, you have three main options: working from home, a cafe, or a co-working space. Renting an Airbnb is a great option if you prefer the comfort of working from home. If you thrive in a bustling cafe environment, Colombia’s major cities offer a plethora of cafes with strong Wi-Fi connections. For a more professional setting, consider joining one of the many co-working spaces available, especially in Bogota, Medellin, and Cali.
Conclusion
Colombia has emerged as the best destination for digital nomads, providing a distinctive mix of cost-effectiveness, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty. Whether you choose Medellin’s vibrant streets, Cartagena’s historic charm, or Bogota’s bustling energy, Colombia has something to offer every remote worker. Explore the diverse landscapes, immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy Colombia’s thriving digital nomad scene. With its strong wifi, affordable living cost, and endless adventure opportunities, Colombia is truly a digital nomad’s paradise. So pack your bags, grab your laptop, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable Colombian digital nomad journey.
