Can You Drink Water In Colombia? The Local Truth [2024]
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH DRINKING WATER IN COLOMBIA?
If your holiday or backpacking trip destination is Colombia, you may have been asking yourself – Can you drink water in Colombia? The answer is an unequivocal YES!
Although you may receive negative advice about drinking water in Latin America, in most cases, it is safe to drink tap water in Colombia as if it’s a developing country.
While there are certain areas that should be avoided, vast Colombia’s major cities (bigger cities such as Bogota, Cartagena, Cali, and Medellin) and towns have perfectly drinkable tap water.
The main issue here is that the quality of the water can vary from place to place, depending on a number of factors. In some urban areas, the water is heavily chlorinated and can have a strong taste or smell. In other public places, it may not be as clean and safe to drink.
Colombia has a good water supply therefore water is safe for human consumption: not only for local people but also for visitors.
Having personally experienced life in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cartagena, I can confidently assure you that the water is safe to drink.
But having a filtered water bottle on hand is always recommended for avoiding single-use plastic, we can help preserve the environment and reduce our carbon footprint… What can you do when you?
For anyone who is unsure about the quality of tap water in a specific area, bottled or filtered water is always an option. Some people may also prefer this option as it is the best way of ensuring that you are drinking safe, clean water wherever you go.
💧FILTERABLE WATER BOTTLE
Keep yourself constantly hydrated and healthy with the Water-To-Go Filtered Bottle, an essential for travelers to Colombia!
The filterable water bottle is a good idea and the best choice for both the environment and your health problems. Get rid of plastic waste and never worry about drinking unclean or unsafe water ever again!
But don’t worry — this article covers everything you need to know about drinking Colombian tap water.
It’s practically impossible not to come in contact with the local tap water: if you take showers, wash your dishes in the sink, use the silverware in restaurants, eat pre-prepped salads, etc . . . you are drinking THE water.
After reading this article, you will be equipped with all the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision about Colombian water. Let’s strap yourself in & get to it!
Can You Drink Tap Water In Colombia?
Yes — Colombia tap water is considered safe for human consumption.
Fortunately for anyone’s travel plans on visiting Colombia though, this should not be your main concern: larger richest cities have taken great precautions so their residents don’t need to worry about contamination here!
Whenever in doubt, it’s always best to stick with bottled or filtered water for peace of mind. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health (though we all know single-use plastics are horrible for the planet ♻️)!
Can Locals Drink The Water In Colombia?
Yes — Colombia Local people drink bottled water.
Allow yourself to experience the deliciousness of Colombia’s tap water! You can trust that it is safe to drink in Bogota, Cartagena, Cali, and Medellin. So go ahead, fill your cup with pure refreshment straight from the faucet – do as locals do.
BUT, WHAT ABOUT DRINKING WATER OUTSIDE THE RURAL POPULATIONS OF COLOMBIA?
As you meander through the more rural areas of Colombia, keep your eyes open to the behavior of local people. Are they relying on tap water or opting for bottled and bagged ‘purified’ alternatives? This will give insight into which option is safest.
As a tried and true long way to determine if the local water is safe for drinking in Colombia, look no further than the working class. If you notice that those employed at your hotel room or hostel are consuming tap water, it’s probably safe for you too!
Whenever I’m in a new area and observe people drinking bottled water, I can be sure that there will be ample amounts of it available at an affordable cost.
You won’t find Bogota teeming with bottled water like other Colombian cities, as most of the local residents consume tap water. Not only is it expensive, but you’re unlikely to stumble upon pristine displays in grocery corner stores or corner shops either.
Along the coast of Colombia, or even in its far-reaching small villages, colossal five-liter bags of purified water can be acquired for only a dollar. Strolling into a nearby corner store can quickly unveil whether people in that area are drinking tap water or buying it in jugs, bottles, or bags.
If you spot bottled water being sold at a discounted price in large quantities, it indicates that accessing tap water is also a viable option.
Alternatively, to make Colombia water safe to drink, you’d have to boil it or use a filterable water bottle like the Water-To-Go Purified Bottle.
What Is The Best Bottle Of Water In Colombia?
Despite the fact that Colombia’s tap water is now safe to drink, if you’d prefer to continue consuming bottled water, it can be found easily and widely available at every store. Which one will you choose?
Taste-wise and reputation-wise, many say the best water in Colombia is from either the Manatial or the Nube Winter Andes.
When choosing bottled water in Colombia, there are two key components to consider regardless of brand:
- Despite having top-tier branding, there is no guarantee that each individual bottle of their product will be flawless.
- Single-use plastics from disposable water bottles have an incredibly detrimental effect on the environment.
🇨🇴 Colombia Travel Tips
You don’t have to order bottled water in restaurants! You can ask for FREE filtered water. As not all filtered water is created equal, you’ll then pour that cup of water into your Water-To-Go Bottle.
THE REAL BEST WATER IN COLOMBIA
Suppose you find yourself in some rural Colombia communities. In that case, in order to NOT get sick on your vacation, I suggest you boil the tap water, and then go one step further and run it through your Water-To-Go Refillable Water Bottle before you drink it.
You can also buy a large bottle of water or water tanks from a Colombia convenience or grocery store, keep it in your hotel room or Airbnb, and refill your Water-To-Go bottle as needed.
You might be wondering, Is it overkill to filter bottled water? No — This is the closest thing to a guarantee you’ll drink clean water in Colombia, especially in rural communities.
💧 WHAT IS WATER-TO-GO?
With BPA-free Water-To-Go bottles, it is a safe side to safe water anywhere in Colombia without having to buy environmentally damaging, single-use plastic water bottles.
“We envision a world where everyone has access to clean drinking water, free of single use plastics.”
WATER-TO-GO MISSION STATEMENT
The bottles filter out an impressive 99.9999% of water-borne contaminants, including viruses, bacteria, chemicals, parasites, and microplastics.
The 3-in-1 filter works like a triple layer of protection, making it incredibly difficult for any dangerous contaminants to pass through.
Are you curious about what happens to the filter when it needs replacing? We got you covered! Our filter membrane is fully biodegradable, while its shrouds are completely recyclable. ♻️
FAQs What Happens If You Drink The Water In Mexico?
For the vast majority of travelers, absolutely nothing happens! For a little, they will get sick.
Around 450’000 visitors come to Colombia each year, and only a very small percentage of people get sick from the water. While it’s great to be vigilant, most travelers come to Colombia and have a great trip.
💁♀️ HERE’S MY PERSONAL TAKE
I live in Colombia and run a Latin American travel website. The #1 and #2 questions I get are Is Colombia safe?, and Can you drink the water in Colombia?
After careful observation, I noticed that the media has once again been guilty of sensationalizing and exaggerating both topics. BUT IT’S ALL A DIFFERENT STORY!
🍳 Cooking With Tap Water In Colombia
Yes — This is 100% safe if you’re boiling the water.
If you want to make a mouth-watering Colombian soup or pasta, there’s no issue with using tap water from Colombia as the microorganisms will be destroyed during boiling.
🥭 Are Vegetables And Fruits Safe In Colombia?
Colombian cuisine is thriving with exceptional, edible produce! You may have come across info saying Don’t eat salads in Colombia. However, this is untrue.
While the majority of Americans believe that simply running produce under tap water is sufficient to clean it, this same habit is not practiced in Colombia.
As a result, much of the raw vegetables found there in the street food markers may be deemed unsafe for consumption.
Yet in Colombia, tap water isn’t used to sanitize produce since it can’t clean anything with impure water.
Rather, many use a vinegar-water mixture, warm soapy water, and store-bought produce wash to clean fresh fruits and veggies.
Speaking of food… Enhance your culinary skills by participating in a Cooking Class that brings the experience of gourmet cooking right to your home!
🍽️ Is It Safe To Wash Dishes With Tap Water In Mexico?
Yes — Whether in the United States or abroad, washing dishes can be a tedious yet necessary task – but it’s quite simple! All you need is some dish soap and warm water, and voila – your dirty dishes will be sparkling clean again in no time at all!
🧊 Can I Drink Ice In Colombia?
Wondering, Is ice safe in Colombia? Yes — You can safely drink ice in Colombia.
☕ Can I Drink Coffee In Colombia?
Yes — Coffee is made with purified water, like all other drinks in the whole of Colombia. Especially for coffee, they make an extra purification process.
For those who love coffee so much, Colombia has some of the best coffee-growing regions in the world.
Have you heard of Tinto in Colombia? It’s a delightful, rich roast coffee that can’t go unnoticed! Learn more about this delicious brew now!
🚰 Can You Drink Tap Water In Cartagena Colombia?
Traveling to Cartagena, Colombia? Check out the beauty of this walkable city!
If you’re planning to visit Cartagena, South America soon, you’re likely wondering, Is the water safe to drink in Cartagena? The answer is yes!
Some travelers think visiting a big city in Colombia versus a small town means the drinking water quality goes up. This is the case in Colombia.
- Can you drink the water in Cartagena Colombia? Yes!
- Can you drink the water in Medellin, Colombia? Yes!
- Can you drink water in Bogota Colombia? Yes!
- Can you drink the water in Cali Colombia? Yes!
- Can you drink tap water in Santa Marta Colombia? Yes & no!
- Can you drink the water in Tayrona National Park? I’d rather bring my filtered bottle with me!
Can You Drink The Water In Colombia resorts?
Drinking water in Colombia hotels is also safe — have a look if the staff explicitly do it too.
Some of the most upscale 4 Star & 5 Star Colombian resorts have elaborate filtration systems. They might, however, provide guests with bottled drinking water in rooms and throughout the property.
Given Cartagena’s division by neighborhoods, I have decided to compile a variety of lists showcasing the types of accommodations available in each area.
🫰🏼 All-Inclusive Accommodations
🏠 Beach House Villas in Cartagena
🪥Can You Brush Your Teeth With Tap Water In Colombia?
Yes, you can brush your teeth with tap water in Colombia! It is also important to note that Colombia’s tap water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can help protect against tooth decay, but some people may find them to be slightly bitter.
Therefore, if you do decide to brush your teeth with tap water, it is important to rinse well afterward!
🚿 Can You Shower In Colombia Water?
Yes — The water is absolutely safe to shower in. In fact, I had a shower in Colombia every day when I lived in parts of the country back in 20189 and I was 100% fine!
What About Colombia Drinking Age?
Colombia has a drinking age of 18, making it one of the lowest legal ages for alcohol consumption in the world. This is significantly lower than most other countries’ legal drinking ages, including the United States and Canada.
Despite this low age restriction, it is still important to be aware of and follow all national laws regarding the purchase and consumption of alcohol.
All the Daily Trips from Cartagena to Choose from!
- Visit the Mercado Bazurto when in Cartagena, or opt for a Food tour instead.
- Visit the beautiful Rosario Islands, or the Rincon del Mar fish town or Isla Tierra Bomba.
- Don’t miss out on visiting the still existing Jurassic Park aka Tayrona National Park
- History lover? Pay a visit to the stunning town of Palenque, or visit the museums the city has to offer, such as the magnificent Emeralds and the historical Cartagena Fort!
- Bird lover? Combine a visit to Rosario Island with the Aviary of Colombia!
- Combine a tour to the Mud Volcano and the visit to the Pink Sea of Colombia
- Choose one of the best 7 Highest Rated Colombia Cartagena Island Tours
- Exploring Cartagena in a local way: the Chiva bus! Don’t forget about the most stunning Catamaran Tour in Cartagena, nor a Sunset tour.
- Get ready to be spellbound! Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Rainbow River, also known as Cano Cristales, in Colombia.
- Join one of the FREE Walking Tour of Cartagena or join a bike tour of the city
- Enhance your culinary skills by participating in a Cooking Class that brings the experience of gourmet cooking right to your home.
How Many Days is Enough in Cartagena?
If you just want to explore Cartagena itself, you’ll want three full days. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas on some Cartagena day trip, you’ll want at least ten full days; but of course: The longer the better!
Drinking Water In Colombia to Avoid Dehydration
One of the worst conditions to experience while in Colombia is not drinking contaminated water or finding yourself in high altitudes mountains, but rather severe dehydration.
Remember that the sun is particularly potent in Colombia (especially on the Caribbean coast), as it lies close to the Equator and thus experiences warm weather all year long. Whenever I carry a water bottle with me, it serves as an effective reminder to keep my hydration levels up throughout the day.
I have been thankful countless times that I followed this strategy while in Colombia’s sweltering temperatures, so if you haven’t already added a Water-To-Go Bottle to your cart – preventing dehydration alone is reason enough to do it!
Not only do these refillable bottles purify your water so you can stay healthy, but they also keep you hydrated throughout the day.
Imagine the satisfaction of never again having to purchase bottled water in Colombia, plus you’ll be doing Mother Nature and your wallet a big favor!
💉What about getting Yellow Fever? Here is all the provided information!
Should I Get Colombia Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance for Colombia is a no-brainer — As having medical coverage while traveling abroad can be the difference between a hefty $2,000 hospital bill and just a mere $2 if you happen to suffer from an extreme stomach bug in Colombia.
Protecting your car, house and body is of utmost importance – and that same rule applies when you travel. Insuring your luggage, possessions and overall well-being will give you peace of mind while on the go!
Thinking of exploring Colombia? Get your complimentary quote today from Safety Wing, a renowned name in travel insurance, and feel secure on your adventure!
- Safety Wing: Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomads who travel for extended periods of time.
🙆🏽HERE’S ONE OF MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCES:
I had a scooter accident while traveling to Cartagena, Colombia, and while it wasn’t terrible, I knew I needed antibiotics and medication.
I went to the walk-in clinic, saw a doctor in less than five minutes, and my exam, antibiotic pills, a cream for the wounds, and the crutches cost $ 18 USD 😳 (COP 87’264.00 in Colombian pesos which is the official currency).
Wrap-Up: Can You Drink Water In Colombia?
As you know, the answer to the question “Can you drink water in Colombia?” is a resounding yes!
While it is advisable to check with local residents, especially in rurals areas, before consuming tap water directly from the faucet, drinking water in parts of Colombia hotels is generally safe and tourists often find that their bodies adjust quickly.
Additionally, brushing your teeth and showering with tap water is also safe and it is highly recommended to carry a Water-To-Go Bottle with you to avoid dehydration.
I do recommend using a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters 99.999999% of bacteria, viruses, toxins, and microplastics. It not only covers your Colombia water safety to the fullest but also helps prevent dehydration — one of the Colombia sicknesses most travelers don’t plan for. With the bottle on you all day, you’ll drink more water.
All of these tips will help ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe experience in Colombia.
Have such a lovely Colombia trip GExt(d)re(a)mers!
Cartagena Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Colombia travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $50 for your stay, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
🚰 Is it safe to drink water in Colombia?
Yes! — It is indeed safe to drink tap water in Colombia. Not in all areas but people usually do not get sick and prevent it by using the Water-To-Go filtered bottle. (Read more)
🚗 Is it safe to rent a car in Cartagena?
Yes — Renting a car in Colombia is one of the best ways to see the country because public transportation cannot reach everywhere! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local Colombian companies, so you get the best rates. (Read more)
🚤 Interested in renting a boat in Cartagena?
Here you Go! — Looking for a relaxing way to explore the pristine marine reef of Colombia? Why not rent a boat and see the islands at your own pace? No need to worry about others cramping your style! (Read more)
☀️ When is the best time to travel to Cartagena?
Cartagena is enjoyable throughout the year, but November to March is typically the best time to visit. (Read more)
Visit Cartagena Colombia in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December!
🎒 Is it safe to travel to Cartagena?
Absolutely yes! —I am going to reveal all the secret tips that no one tells you about safety in Colombia! (Read more)
👀 Looking for the best tours in Cartagena?
For the best tours in Cartagena Colombia, click here.
🫶🏽 Is Cartagena worth visiting?
Of course! Here I am going to reveal all the reasons why I think Cartagena is worth adding to your itinerary! (Read more)
🤑 Is Colombia expensive?
Nope! Colombia, compared to the rest of the world, is not expensive.
📴 Will my phone work in Cartagena?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have a free Colombia service, buy a Claro SIM Card once landed in Colombia. (Read more)
🛌🏼 What’s the best way to book my Colombia accommodations?
For Colombia hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering Colombia Flats, don’t forget to also check Couchsurfing, which is free and you stay with locals.
🧳 What do I pack for Cartagena?
Head to the Ultimate Cartagena Packing List to get all the info you need on packing for Colombia and also on what not to wear.
🛩️ What’s the best site to buy Colombia flights?
For finding cheap Colombian flights, I recommend Kayak.
🛂 Do I need a visa for Colombia?
Likely Not — U.S., Canadian, and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Colombia. BUT check here for more Cartagena, Colombia travel requirements. The majority of travelers will receive a 90-Day stamp Tourist Visa upon arrival. (Read more Colombia Travel Tips)
❗Don’t forget to fill up the Mig Form when you enter and leave Colombia❗
