Mistakes Tourists Make in Colombia (and How to Win Over the Locals)

Mistakes tourists make in Colombia are easy to avoid. Discover key gestures and attitudes to respect Colombian culture and enjoy an authentic, enriching experience.

Is It Colombia or Columbia? Avoiding This Common Blunder

Saying "Columbia" instead of "Colombia" isn’t just a linguistic error—it’s a faux pas that can irritate locals.

Why does it matter so much?

National identity: Colombia is named after Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón in Spanish).
Geographical confusion: "Columbia" refers to places in the United States, not the South American nation.

Tip: Make an effort to pronounce "Colombia" correctly. This simple act shows respect and leaves a good impression.

Closing Car Doors Gently: A Matter of Etiquette

Although it might seem trivial, slamming a car door can be seen as inconsiderate in Colombia.

What to do:

Always close car doors softly.
Thank the driver with a polite “gracias.”

Food: Colombian Generosity and How to Honor It

In Colombia, food is an expression of love and hospitality. Leaving food on your plate might be viewed as rude.

Practical tips:

Request smaller portions by saying “poquito, por favor.”
Share large dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho.
Ask for a takeout container if you can’t finish your meal; it’s common practice.

Colombian Markets: Don’t Touch Fruits or Flowers Without Asking

Colombian markets are a feast for the senses, but touching items without buying may come across as disrespectful.

Basic rules:

Always ask before handling any product.If curious, buy small quantities to try.
Join a guided food tour, such as those offered by 321Colombia.com, for a seamless experience.

Avoid Talking About Pablo Escobar: Respecting Colombia’s History

While many TV shows have immortalized Pablo Escobar, for Colombians, the topic brings back painful memories.

Why you should steer clear:

It reinforces harmful stereotypes.
It overlooks the cultural richness and progress Colombia has achieved.

Instead:
Talk about the country’s cultural diversity, music, coffee, or stunning landscapes.

Respecting Regional Diversity: Key to Connecting with Locals

Colombia is a mosaic of cultures, with significant differences across its regions.

Examples:

n the Caribbean coast, people are relaxed and friendly.
In cities like Bogotá or Medellín, the atmosphere is more formal.

Tip:
Adapt your behavior to match local customs for a more enriching experience.

Additional Tips for people loking forward to avoid Mistakes tourists make in Colombia

Learn basic Spanish phrases.
A simple “buenos días” goes a long way.Be patient in lines and respect personal space.
Negotiate politely, and only in places where it’s customary.

FAQs About Mistakes Tourists Make in Colombia

Why is it so important to say Colombia instead of Columbia? Saying “Colombia” correctly shows respect for the culture and avoids confusion with U.S. locations.
What should I do if I can’t finish my food? Order smaller portions from the start or request a takeout container for leftovers.
Is it offensive to talk about Pablo Escobar with locals? Yes, many Colombians feel such comments perpetuate negative stereotypes and evoke painful memories.
Can I touch fruits in markets? Only if you intend to buy. Otherwise, ask first or request a sample.
What traditional Colombian dishes should I try? Don’t miss the bandeja paisa, sancocho, arepas, ajiaco, or Lechona (Colombia’s lechona is officially the best dish in the world according to TasteAtlas).
How can I be a responsible tourist in Colombia? Learn about the local culture, respect traditions, and promote sustainable tourism.

Conclusion: How to Win Over Locals in Colombia

Being a conscious tourist in Colombia involves more than following rules—it’s about connecting with a rich and welcoming culture. From correctly pronouncing "Colombia" to respecting regional diversity, your efforts will be appreciated. Adjust your gestures, show genuine curiosity, and learn about the country. This way, you’ll enjoy an authentic experience and earn the locals’ affection.