- The best travel insurance plans for Colombia
- Is it currently safe to travel to Colombia?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter</b> Colombia?
- Why take out travel insurance for Colombia?
- What should travel insurance for Colombia cover?
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for Colombia
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Colombia?
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Colombia?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Colombia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Colombia covers medical emergencies, repatriation, trip cancellation, and lost personal belongings.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for entry but is vital for covering high medical or emergency costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Private hospital care in major cities is good but can cost over AUD $500 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Colombia typically costs between AUD $40 and AUD $80.
5. Good to know: You must complete the mandatory Check-MIG online form 72 to 1 hour before travelling.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Colombia.
The best travel insurance plans for Colombia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.6M | The highest standard for medical safety in Colombia. - very high medical limit - evacuation included - strong support for hospital, doctor, or repatriation costs |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.6M | A reliable contract for challenging environments like Colombia. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | AUD 0.8M | Designed for essential protection on holiday in Colombia. - solid medical cover - useful emergency phone services - competitive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.1M | Well balanced for those exploring cities and remote areas. - medical evacuation - long trip options - hospital costs included |
| Globe Partner | AUD 0.5M | Suited for shorter trips or low risk profiles in Colombia. - essential health cover - civil liability - repatriation back to Australia |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 0.8M | For those seeking simple, efficient protection. - immediate support if hospitalised - limited but robust core cover - easy claims process |
- very high medical limit
- evacuation included
- strong support for hospital, doctor, or repatriation costs
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- useful emergency phone services
- competitive price
- medical evacuation
- long trip options
- hospital costs included
- essential health cover
- civil liability
- repatriation back to Australia
- immediate support if hospitalised
- limited but robust core cover
- easy claims process
Is it currently safe to travel to Colombia?
As of June 2025, the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution throughout Colombia due to violent crime and terrorism, with even higher risk in certain regions and along some borders.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: armed robbery, kidnapping, and terrorism remain significant in Colombia. There are "Do not travel" advisories for border zones like Catatumbo due to ongoing armed conflict.
- Health risks: yellow fever is widespread and vaccination is strongly recommended. Medical care outside major cities can be basic; for instance, serious illnesses or injuries may require costly medical evacuation to Bogotá.
- Legal requirements: all travellers must fill out the Check-MIG online form between 72 hours and 1 hour before entering or leaving Colombia. Entry rules are strictly enforced, and overstaying may result in fines.
- Local customs: rejecting offers of food or drink from strangers is advised, as drugs like scopolamine have been used in assaults targeting foreigners, especially in nightlife areas of Bogotá and Medellín.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Colombia.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Colombia?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for Australian citizens travelling to Colombia for short stays as a tourist.
While you do not need to show proof of insurance to enter, it is strongly recommended by official sources due to the high cost of emergency medical care, limited health facilities outside major cities, and the risk of unforeseen incidents such as theft or accidents.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Colombia. This is mainly because health services can be very expensive and the security situation presents real risks even for short trips.
Why take out travel insurance for Colombia?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Colombia.
In Colombia, health care for foreigners is most often provided by private clinics such as Fundación Santa Fe in Bogotá or Clínica del Country. Costs are high, especially for hospitalisation or surgery, and public hospitals are generally not recommended for overseas visitors because of limited resources and long waiting times.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Colombia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Fundación Santa Fe | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 5,500,000 COP (about 2,100 AUD) | up to 100% of actual costs |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 2,800,000 COP (about 1,070 AUD) | up to 100% of actual costs |
| I need to be repatriated | 35,000,000 COP (about 13,400 AUD) | up to the plan maximum, often 500,000 AUD |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 14,000,000 COP (about 5,360 AUD) | up to 100% of actual costs |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Colombia cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers urgent care, hospitalisation, and doctor’s fees if you fall ill or are injured. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least 80,000 AUD per trip. |
| 🎒 Repatriation | Covers the cost of returning you to Australia if you suffer a serious accident or illness. Minimum recommended coverage: 100,000 AUD. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for emergency evacuation to a safe facility or your home country when local care is inadequate. Choose up to 200,000 AUD as a limit. |
| 💊 Personal liability | Covers costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. A minimum of 1,000,000 AUD coverage is advisable for Colombia. |
| 🛄 Baggage and valuables protection | Insures you for loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and important items. Recommended limit: at least 7,000 AUD per traveller. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation and curtailment | Refunds non-refundable expenses if you must cancel or interrupt your trip for covered reasons. Opt for coverage of 10,000 AUD or more. |
| 👩⚕️ 24/7 assistance and emergency helplines | Provides round-the-clock support in case of medical or legal emergencies. Ensure the insurer offers multilingual assistance accessible from Colombia. |
| 🪂 Sports and adventure activities | Covers accidental injuries from hiking, rafting, and other popular activities in Colombia. Check that risky or high-altitude sports are not excluded from your policy. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least 80,000 AUD per trip.
Minimum recommended coverage: 100,000 AUD.
Choose up to 200,000 AUD as a limit.
A minimum of 1,000,000 AUD coverage is advisable for Colombia.
Recommended limit: at least 7,000 AUD per traveller.
Opt for coverage of 10,000 AUD or more.
Ensure the insurer offers multilingual assistance accessible from Colombia.
Check that risky or high-altitude sports are not excluded from your policy.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers low coverage amounts and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full protection. Compare the best plans on HelloSafe and sign up online to get immediate proof of coverage.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for Colombia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 34 AUD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 62 AUD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 95 AUD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 198 AUD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance depends on several key factors: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the level of cover you choose, and any optional extras like cancellation. It's crucial to consider these when buying a policy to ensure you're properly covered and avoid any nasty surprises on your trip.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Colombia?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Colombia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧳 Trip duration | Insurance price increases with the length of your stay, especially for extended travel. | Buy only for your actual travel dates, not extra days, to avoid unnecessary cost. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Age affects premium, as older travellers are charged higher rates by many insurers. | Compare different offers. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which is rare for this market. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Higher coverage limits and service options increase the overall price of your plan. | Choose essential medical and repatriation coverage. Avoid unnecessary extra cover, such as sports if not needed. |
| 👪 Number of travellers | Group or family plans can be more cost-effective than insuring each member individually. | Request family or group quotes if travelling with others for possible discounts and simplified insurance management. |
| 🚫 Deductible | The amount you pay out-of-pocket before the insurance kicks in impacts your premium. | Select a higher deductible if you want to lower your upfront premium, but ensure you can pay it in an emergency. |
| 🌍 Worldwide vs regional | Global policies cost more than South America-only or Colombia-only ones. | Pick a policy covering only South America or Colombia if those are your only destinations during the trip. |
| 💻 Purchase method | Online plans are often less expensive than those bought via phone or in-person. | Use online comparators and direct websites, which tend to offer the lowest rates and allow quick side-by-side comparison. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Colombia?
It is completely legitimate to ask whether your current coverage—public or private health insurance, or even credit card insurance—can cover you for a trip to Colombia. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially for major medical expenses or emergencies. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Colombia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | Never | No medical expenses or repatriation abroad. No cover for medical evacuation or hospitalisation overseas. | Travel insurance offers up to unlimited medical expenses and repatriation. Also includes 24/7 emergency assistance and personal liability. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Some hospital costs abroad, usually capped (often 2,000–10,000 AUD). No assistance or evacuation. | Travel insurance reimburses up to 1,000,000– unlimited AUD and covers medical evacuation, trip interruption, and personal belongings. |
| Classic credit card (e.g. NAB, ANZ, Westpac) | Limited coverage | Possible accident, death or delay cover; rarely reimburses medical costs above 2,500 AUD. No repatriation. | Travel insurance covers medical costs, emergency transport, and also support if your trip is cancelled, interrupted or your belongings are stolen. |
| Premium credit card (e.g. Amex Platinum, HSBC Premier, ANZ Black) | Limited coverage | May include some travel medical and baggage cover, limits rarely above 20,000 AUD. Many exclusions. | Travel insurance has higher limits (often 250,000–unlimited AUD) with fewer exclusions. Includes evacuation, return airfare and liability. |
Example
After a motorbike accident near Medellín, Tom's emergency surgery and hospital stay cost AU$38,000. His CommBank credit card's included insurance had a low limit, covering only AU$10,000, and his regular health insurance didn't apply overseas. He faced a massive AU$28,000 shortfall for what seemed like a standard holiday mishap.
Expert advice
Your credit card or private health insurance often excludes crucial cover, like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Always check your policy's fine print to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia?
Australian citizens do not need a visa for tourism stays in Colombia up to 90 days. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned departure date is required. You must also complete the Check-MIG online form before travel and be able to show proof of an onward ticket and sufficient funds.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Colombia?
Start by comparing different insurance providers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check that the policy covers Colombia-specific risks, such as medical emergencies or theft, and verify any exclusions. Purchase your chosen policy online, and you will then immediately receive your insurance certificate by email.
Are there specific health risks to consider when travelling to Colombia?
Yes, Colombia has widespread yellow fever and Zika virus, so vaccination and medical advice are important, especially for pregnant women. There is also a risk of malaria in certain regions and outbreaks of dengue fever. Access to quality care may be limited outside major cities, making travel insurance with medical evacuation cover essential.
Is travel insurance expensive for trips to Colombia from Australia?
Prices for travel insurance vary, but expect to pay between 80 and 250 AUD for a two-week trip, depending on age and coverage chosen. Policies offering higher medical expense limits, adventure sports, and valuables cover typically cost more, but basic plans are available at more affordable rates.
What should I do if I need emergency medical assistance in Colombia?
In case of a medical emergency, contact your insurer’s 24/7 assistance service as soon as possible for help with hospital admission or evacuation. In Bogotá and other large cities, private medical facilities are available, but payment or proof of insurance is usually required upfront. The local emergency number for medical help is 123.
Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia?
Australian citizens do not need a visa for tourism stays in Colombia up to 90 days. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned departure date is required. You must also complete the Check-MIG online form before travel and be able to show proof of an onward ticket and sufficient funds.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Colombia?
Start by comparing different insurance providers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check that the policy covers Colombia-specific risks, such as medical emergencies or theft, and verify any exclusions. Purchase your chosen policy online, and you will then immediately receive your insurance certificate by email.
Are there specific health risks to consider when travelling to Colombia?
Yes, Colombia has widespread yellow fever and Zika virus, so vaccination and medical advice are important, especially for pregnant women. There is also a risk of malaria in certain regions and outbreaks of dengue fever. Access to quality care may be limited outside major cities, making travel insurance with medical evacuation cover essential.
Is travel insurance expensive for trips to Colombia from Australia?
Prices for travel insurance vary, but expect to pay between 80 and 250 AUD for a two-week trip, depending on age and coverage chosen. Policies offering higher medical expense limits, adventure sports, and valuables cover typically cost more, but basic plans are available at more affordable rates.
What should I do if I need emergency medical assistance in Colombia?
In case of a medical emergency, contact your insurer’s 24/7 assistance service as soon as possible for help with hospital admission or evacuation. In Bogotá and other large cities, private medical facilities are available, but payment or proof of insurance is usually required upfront. The local emergency number for medical help is 123.
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