Colombia information

Colombia officially the Republic of Colombia (reˈpuβ̞lika ð̞e koˈlombja), is a country located in the northwestern region of South America. Colombia is bordered to the east by Venezuela and Brazil ; to the south by Ecuador and Peru ; to the North by the Atlantic Ocean, through the Caribbean Sea; to the north-west by Panama; and to the west by the Pacific Ocean. Besides the countries in South America, the Republic of Colombia is recognized to share maritime borders with the Caribbean countries of Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and the Central American countries of Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
Colombia is the 26th largest nation in the world and the fourth-largest country in South America (after Brazil, Argentina, and Peru), with an area more than twice that of France. In Latin America, it is also the country with the third largest population after Brazil and Mexico.
Colombia is a standing middle power with the second largest Spanish speaking population of the world after Mexico. It is largely recognition among world's culture and is also one of the largest manufacturers of South America. Colombia is also one of the most ethnically diverse nations in the South cone, product of large-scale migrations during the XX century which has caused a dramatic population growth since then.
The country currently suffers from a low-intensity conflict involving rebel guerrilla groups, paramilitary militias, drug trafficking and corruption inside minor towns and some cities. The conflict originated around 1964-1966, when the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the National Liberation Army (ELN) were founded and began their guerrilla insurgency campaigns against successive Colombian government administrations. (...) more....

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Passport and proof of onward/return ticket required for tourist stay of up to 180 days. Upon arrival the Colombian Immigration authority stamps a stay authorization, normally no longer than 90 days (extendible up to 180 days.) Minors (under 18), who are traveling alone, with one parent or with a third party must present a copy of their birth certificate and written authorization from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian, specifically granting permission to travel alone, with one parent or with a third party. This document must be notarized before a Colombian consular officer in the United States. Visa must be obtained before arrival for persons planning to do business, temporary work (consultant), and study. Anyone suspected of being HIV-positive will not be admitted without a waiver from a Colombian Consulate in the U.S. For additional information and information about other types of travel, contact the Colombian Embassy, 1875 Conn. Ave., NW, Suite 218, Washington, DC 20009 (202/332-7476) or nearest Consulate General: CA (323/653-4299 or 415/495-7195), FL (305/448-5558 or 441-0437), GA (404/255-3038 or 256-2518), IL (312/923-1196), LA (504/525-5580 or 5582), MA (617/536-6222), NY (212/949-9898), or TX (713/527-8919). Internet: www.colombiaemb.org. Mention tripwolf when you contact American Passport following the link below to ensure eligibility for special rates and services.

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