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Vaccines for Colombia

6 vaccines recommended. See what you need, how much it costs, and book online.

Vaccines for Colombia destination photo

Description

Colombia has transformed into one of South America's most popular destinations — Cartagena's colonial old town, Medellín's innovation, Bogotá's culture, the Coffee Triangle, and the Caribbean coast all draw increasing numbers of UK visitors. Yellow Fever vaccination is required if visiting jungle areas below 2,300m and for some regions. Dengue and Zika are present throughout the lowlands.

Required Vaccines

These vaccines may be required for entry to Colombia or if transiting through endemic areas.

These vaccines are strongly recommended for travel to Colombia. Our pharmacist will advise which are most relevant to your specific itinerary.

Moderate Risk Level

Malaria in Colombia

Malaria risk exists in rural areas below 1,700m, particularly in the Pacific coast (Chocó), Amazon region, and Urabá. There is no malaria risk in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena city, or the Coffee Triangle. Anti-malarial tablets are recommended only for jungle, rural Pacific, or Amazon travel.

Malaria risk illustration for Colombia

Travel Health Tips for Colombia

Practical tips to help you stay safe, healthy, and prepared throughout your trip.

Travel tip 1

  1. Yellow Fever certification may be checked at internal airports when flying to/from jungle regions — carry your certificate.

Travel tip 2

  1. Dengue is widespread in lowland Colombia — use DEET repellent during the day.

Travel tip 3

  1. Bogotá is at 2,640m — allow a day to acclimatise if arriving from sea level. Altitude sickness is uncommon but possible.

Travel tip 4

  1. Tap water is safe in Bogotá and Medellín but bottled water is recommended elsewhere.

Travel tip 5

  1. Colombia's healthcare system is good in major cities — ensure travel insurance covers medical costs nonetheless.

When to Get Vaccinated

Yellow Fever required at least 10 days before arrival for travel to risk areas (including some national parks). Plan 6–8 weeks ahead for Rabies. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and DTP available same-day.

Best Time to Visit

December to March and July to August (dry seasons). Colombia's climate varies by altitude rather than season — Bogotá is cool year-round, the coast is hot. The rainy season (April–June, October–November) brings increased dengue risk in the lowlands.

UK Government Health Advice

Official recommendations from UK health authorities for travel to Colombia. Always consult a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your specific itinerary.

NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro — Colombia

“Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers visiting certain areas of Colombia below 2,300m, including national parks and jungle regions.”


Accessed April 2026

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Get Protected Before Your Trip to Colombia

Free travel consultation included. Same day appointments available.