What vaccines do I need for Colombia?

Recommended by the CDC: Yellow Fever (for tropical lowland regions outside major cities), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Rabies (for rural travel), Malaria prophylaxis (for high-risk rural regions).

Is tap water safe to drink in Colombia?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Colombia. Drink bottled or treated water throughout your trip, including in resort areas.

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Latin America

Colombia Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Colombia has highly variable health risks across its diverse geographic regions. Coastal and lowland areas including the Pacific and Caribbean coasts carry risk for dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and malaria, while the Amazon and Orinoco basin regions carry additional yellow fever risk. High-altitude cities like Bogota carry minimal mosquito-borne disease risk. Food and waterborne diseases are a risk throughout the country.

Food Safety: Moderate Risk Tap Water: Unsafe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Colombia

CDC Recommended

Yellow Fever (for tropical lowland regions outside major cities)
Hepatitis A
Typhoid
Hepatitis B
Rabies (for rural travel)
Malaria prophylaxis (for high-risk rural regions)

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Colombia

Malaria Risk

Present in tropical lowland departments including Choco, Cordoba, Narino, Vichada, and Amazon basin areas. Mix of P. vivax and P. falciparum. No malaria risk in Bogota or other highland cities above 1,600 meters.

Food and Water Safety

Moderate Risk Tap water: not safe to drink

Tap water is treated and generally considered safe in major cities like Bogota and Medellin, but bottled water is recommended for most travelers. Food safety in informal markets and rural areas is variable.

Key Health Tips for Colombia

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers visiting jungle and lowland regions — not needed for Bogota or Cartagena.
Dengue risk is present year-round in coastal cities including Cartagena and Santa Marta — use repellent consistently.
Bogota's elevation of 2,600 meters can cause altitude-related symptoms — allow 1 to 2 days to adjust before strenuous activity.
Check current travel advisories for specific departments due to ongoing security and access considerations.

Disease Risks in Colombia

Official Resources

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