Remote work has unlocked a lifestyle of freedom, especially for digital nomads and expats. Colombia, with its growing digital infrastructure and stunning geography, offers the perfect setting to combine productivity with adventure. This guide highlights the top destinations for balancing remote work and travel in Colombia, including insider tips and must-visit spots.

Best Cities in Colombia for Remote Work and Travel (2025 Guide)

Is Colombia currently a good place for remote work and travel? Many digital nomads are looking to spread their wings, expand their horizons, and indulge in the luxury and pleasure of working from anywhere in the world while enjoying diverse landscapes, new cultures, experiences, and cuisines, and allowing themselves to discover places in the world that not only meet their work needs but also their appetite for discovering the world while working.

Thus, Colombia emerges as one of the most attractive options in this regard for thousands of digital nomads who will not only find all the essential factors to work remotely, to be safe, to connect with a robust nomad community, but also to discover the aptly named “Country of Beauty,” which is also one of the most biodiverse in the world, with a unique cultural diversity characterized by hospitality and the vast amount of natural, tourist, historical, gastronomic, sports, entertainment, and academic experiences that several of its cities or towns offer.

Why Colombia Is a Top Destination for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads?

We know that many factors are decisive when choosing a country to venture into being a digital nomad who also enjoys and travels through it, and we want to point out why Colombia fulfills everything necessary to give you the best experience in your work and personal life, as you can see next:

A Welcoming Country for Digital Nomads by Law

Colombia has positioned itself as a top destination for digital nomads, and a key reason— though sometimes seemingly obvious— is the availability of the digital nomad visa.

Colombia’s digital nomad visa offers an exciting opportunity for remote workers looking to live and work legally in the country. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least three times the Colombian minimum wage and meet other eligibility criteria, which can be granted for up to two years, making it an attractive option for long-term stays. While the process may involve some complexity, understanding the requirements is the first step. For a detailed guide on how to apply and what to expect, we invite you to read our full blog post on the topic.

How to Obtain a Colombia Digital Nomad Visa – 2025 Update

In response to the rising digital nomad and remote work trend, Colombia now offers a Digital Nomad Visa. Since the implementation of Resolution 5477 in October 2022, Medellin Guru, in...

Affordable Cost of Living

The Expat Insider survey, conducted by InterNations, reveals that Colombia is the second-cheapest country for expats to live in globally. This affordability plays a significant role in attracting expats to the country. With a monthly budget of just USD 1,000 to $1,500, individuals can choose the best city to stay in, lead a comfortable lifestyle, engage with diverse global communities, and explore a range of attractions throughout the country.

Accommodation in Medellín ranges from $800-$1,500 in areas like El Poblado or Laureles, while Bogotá’s options start at $600 in Chapinero, making both cities appealing with their distinct features and expat communities. Cali offers more budget-friendly choices starting at $400, ideal for nomads seeking affordability, while Cartagena provides tourist rentals ranging from $700 to $1,200, located near beaches and colonial architecture. Food costs are also reasonable, with groceries like milk, eggs, and chicken being affordable, and restaurant meals ranging from $9 to $50. Transportation is efficient and budget-friendly, with metro and bus fares under $1 and Uber or other platforms available in all the cities. Coworking spaces are readily available, starting at $100 per month in Medellín and offering daily plans in Bogotá. Internet speeds are reliable at $30 to $50 per month, further solidifying Colombia as a top destination for digital nomads seeking a balance of cost and quality of life

Strong Internet Connectivity

Colombia boasts a robust internet infrastructure, with major cities offering fiber-optic connections and widespread 4G/LTE coverage, where numerous internet service providers offer competitive packages, ensuring reliable and fast connections.

Coworking spaces, cafés, and hotels often provide high-speed Wi-Fi, catering to the needs of digital nomads. Mobile data plans are affordable and offer substantial data allowances. Additionally, public Wi-Fi hotspots are available in many urban areas, making it easy to stay connected while exploring cities. This reliable infrastructure supports seamless remote work, video conferencing, and online collaboration, affirming Colombia’s appeal to digital nomads.

Safety

In general, Colombia is a safe country for expats, especially in tourist areas, as long as necessary precautions are taken, since there is no perfect place in the world nor one where you are exempt from any risk. The country has experienced a significant improvement in security in recent years, especially in major cities. However, it is still essential to stay informed by paying attention to local news, avoiding high-risk areas or those with demonstrations, and being aware of emergency numbers and the nearest hospitals, which are some of the best in Latin America.

It is essential to have good planning when traveling in the country, to work with qualified agencies with good reputations, preferably oriented toward the foreign public to minimize risks, or to be accompanied by a trusted local person who can introduce you in the most prudent and conscious way possible to tourist areas, identifying malicious or dishonest people who want to take advantage of the condition of foreigners. Still, Colombia is essentially a safe place where, as in every place in the world, you must be aware, cautious, well-informed, and organized.

Remember also that one of the essential requirements for the digital nomad visa in Colombia is to have international health insurance that can provide coverage against all risks, including repatriation, death, maternity, disability, and, if applicable, pre-existing conditions. Taking care of your health and your peace of mind is essential for the best possible experience, and we can help you obtain the best health insurance for your stay and enjoyment of the country.

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Charming and Kind People

Colombia is renowned for its warm and welcoming people, who are known for their hospitality and eagerness to share their culture with visitors. This friendliness creates a positive and supportive environment for digital nomads, making it easy to connect with others, build relationships, and feel at home in a new country. The genuine kindness of Colombians significantly enhances the experience of living and working remotely in the country.

Things to do

At this point, Colombia is definitely made for all tastes because, throughout the country, you can find a variety of things to do, with its climates, ecosystems, biodiversity, and the particularities of each region that may well equate to what you are looking for, to your tastes, and to what catches your attention.

From the sea, the tropical coasts, and the beach lifestyle, or the comfort of more urbanized cities, or perhaps the more rural lifestyle surrounded by mountains, nature, and natural richness that will dazzle you, Colombia assures you endless things to do that will make your experience an unforgettable, unique, and memorable one. You will be able to learn more about some of these most striking and ideal places for you as a digital nomad in more detail below.

The country successfully complies with everything a Digital Nomad needs to keep a good level at work but also to have the best of experiences in Colombia with everything you can do here. However, don’t overlook the Digital Nomad Visa application to live out all we mention on this blog.

This visa, with its verifiable income requirements and other criteria, facilitates legal stay and remote work in the country. However, the process can be complex. To navigate it smoothly, the assistance of experts in immigration matters is essential. We recommend contacting our trusted partner, expatgroup.co, which offers the necessary guidance to make obtaining your digital nomad visa a straightforward and successful process. With their support, you can enjoy everything Colombia has to offer without legal worries.

Become a Digital Nomad in Colombia

Our reliable partner expatgroup.co offers a wide range of services for Digital Nomads:

Best Cities and Towns in Colombia for Working Remotely and Traveling

Colombia is rapidly becoming a digital nomad hotspot thanks to its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and relatively low cost of living. Balancing remote work with travel in this diverse country is not only feasible but also highly rewarding. Choosing the right city to base yourself in is crucial for optimizing both productivity and exploration. Here’s a closer look at some of the best cities in Colombia where you can effectively work remotely and seamlessly enjoy your travel adventures.

Medellín: The Favorite City for Expats

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín is among the most popular destinations not only in Colombia but also in Latin America and worldwide, boasting a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. The city boasts a robust infrastructure featuring reliable internet connectivity, numerous co-working spaces, and a thriving expat community. Neighborhoods like El Poblado are popular for their cafes, modern amenities, and vibrant nightlife, providing a perfect balance between work and leisure. Additionally, Medellín is a treasure that invites you to explore Comuna 13, museums, Atanasio Girardot Stadium with its vibrant soccer teams, local cuisine, captivating viewpoints, nightlife, and nearby towns like Guatapé and Santa Fe de Antioquia.

Medellín, a prime destination for digital nomads, offers a variety of modern, furnished apartments. City center one-bedroom rents typically range from $400 to $900, varying by neighborhood.

Bogotá: The Capital of the Country

Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural, theatrical, and musical scene, as well as a diverse range of activities, including festivals, concerts, and the country’s largest conventions. While the weather can be cooler than in other parts of the country, the city’s intellectual atmosphere, numerous museums, and historic sites make it a compelling choice. Bogotá offers a plethora of co-working spaces and cafes with high-speed internet, catering to the needs of remote workers. The city’s public transportation system is extensive, facilitating the dynamic exploration of its various neighborhoods, such as La Candelaria, and attractions like the Gold Museum, Plaza de Bolívar, Monserrate, and Campín Stadium, among others.

In Bogotá, the capital city, rent for one-bedroom apartments generally ranges from $500 to $1,000 per month. However, numerous affordable co-living options are also available.

Cartagena: The Coastal Paradise

If you dream of working by the beach, Cartagena is the perfect destination. This historic city on the Caribbean coast boasts stunning colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and a lively atmosphere. While the cost of living can be higher compared to other Colombian cities, the allure of working with ocean views is hard to resist. Cartagena offers a mix of co-working spaces and cafes with good internet connectivity. Beyond work, there is a lot to do; you can explore the Walled City, relax on the beaches of Bocagrande, or take boat trips to the Rosario Islands.

If a coastal lifestyle is preferred, Cartagena's rent prices are similar to Medellín's, with modern apartments near the beach costing between $700 and $1,000.

Salento: Remote Work in Colombia’s Coffee Region

This charming town, with its brightly colored colonial architecture, lush green landscapes, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee permeating the air, presents an idyllic backdrop for remote work. The pace of life in Salento is relaxed, creating a serene environment that fosters focused work. Cafes dot the town square and surrounding streets, many offering reliable Wi-Fi and a welcoming atmosphere for those working remotely. Imagine sipping a cup of exquisite Colombian coffee while attending virtual meetings, surrounded by the sights and sounds of local life.

Beyond the cafes, Salento serves as a gateway to the Cocora Valley, renowned for its towering wax palm trees –Colombia’s national tree– which create a surreal and breathtaking landscape. Exploring this valley offers an excellent opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature, providing a refreshing balance to remote work life. Hiking trails wind through the valley, leading to stunning viewpoints and allowing for moments of reflection and inspiration.

Salento’s strategic location within the Coffee Triangle also makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby coffee farms. Many farms offer tours, providing a firsthand look at the coffee production process, from bean to cup. These experiences not only educate but also offer a unique way to unwind and learn something new.

For digital nomads seeking a destination that combines reliable connectivity with natural beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation, Salento stands out as a premier choice in Colombia. The estimated monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Salento ranges from $650 to $1400 USD. This includes accommodation ($300-$600), food ($200-$400), internet and utilities ($50-$100), and activities and travel ($100-$300). These figures are approximate and can vary significantly depending on individual lifestyle choices and spending habits.

Jericó: Hidden Gem in Antioquia Department

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush landscapes of the Antioquia Department, Jericó emerges as a captivating and relatively undiscovered haven for digital nomads seeking an authentic Colombian experience. This charming town, often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations, offers a tranquil and inspiring environment that fosters both productivity and personal rejuvenation.

Guatapé: A Picturesque Retreat for Digital Nomads

Nestled beside the stunning Guatapé Reservoir, this vibrant town offers a tranquil escape with its brightly painted houses and breathtaking views of El Peñol Rock. Guatapé provides a unique setting for remote work, blending natural beauty with a relaxed atmosphere. The town boasts a growing number of cafes and guesthouses equipped with reliable Wi-Fi, catering to digital nomads seeking a comfortable workspace away from the city bustle.

Enjoy peaceful evenings by the lake, explore the surrounding countryside, and take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available. Guatapé’s close proximity to Medellín also allows for easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a serene work-life balance.

Jardín, The Most Beautiful Town in Antioquia

Nestled amidst verdant hills and coffee plantations, Jardín is often hailed as the most beautiful town in Antioquia. Its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect haven for digital nomads seeking peace and inspiration.

Jardín offers a slower pace of life, allowing for focused work during the day and relaxed exploration in the evenings. Cafes around the main square provide reliable Wi-Fi, and the town’s natural surroundings offer opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The local coffee culture is vibrant, and visiting nearby coffee farms is a must.

In this charming place, digital nomads can immerse themselves in a variety of activities beyond work. Explore the stunning Cueva del Esplendor with its hidden waterfall, or visit wildlife reserves like Gallito de Roca and the Yellow-Eared Parrot Bird Reserve for unique birdwatching experiences. Hike to the picturesque Cascada La Escalera, and delve into the town’s history at the Centro Histórico, the Basílica de la Inmaculada Concepción, and Casa Museo Clara Rojas Peláez, enjoy panoramic views from La Garrucha cable car, and indulge in coffee and honey tours, or opt for horseback riding through the scenic landscapes.

Jardín is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Colombian life while staying productive. The estimated monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Jardín ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This includes accommodation ($200-$400), food ($150-$300), internet and utilities ($30-$70), and activities and travel ($120-$230).

Villa de Leyva: Colonial Paradise for Digital Nomads

Nestled in the highlands of Boyacá, Villa de Leyva is a stunning colonial town offering a peaceful and inspiring environment for digital nomads. Its well-preserved white-washed buildings, cobblestone streets, and expansive central plaza create a unique, timeless atmosphere. The town’s laid-back vibe is perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities, making it an ideal spot for focused work.

Villa de Leyva is not just about its picturesque scenery; it also offers a range of activities that cater to diverse interests. The town is surrounded by natural attractions such as the Pozos Azules (Blue Wells) and the Fossil Museum, showcasing the area’s rich geological history and allowing visitors to practice hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby countryside, providing ample opportunities to connect with nature and unwind after work.

For digital nomads, finding reliable internet is essential, and Villa de Leyva offers a growing number of cafes and accommodations with stable connections. The town’s culinary scene is also noteworthy, featuring a variety of restaurants that serve both local and international cuisine, as well as markets and artisanal shops that enrich the charm of living in Villa de Leyva.

Villa de Leyva offers a tranquil, culturally rich environment for digital nomads. Monthly living costs are estimated between $600 and $1,200 USD, including rent ($250-$500), food ($200-$350), internet and utilities ($50-$100), and leisure activities ($100-$250). Costs vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Tips for Balancing Remote Work and Travel in Colombia

Colombia offers an incredible blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and affordable living, making it an ideal base for remote work and exploration for digital nomads. To truly maximize your experience, striking a balance between your work commitments and travel aspirations is key.

Finding the spot between adventure and productivity requires careful planning and adaptability. It’s about creating a routine that respects both your professional responsibilities and your desire to experience all that Colombia has to offer. Before diving into the travel aspect, ensure you have a solid work setup in place. This means:

Stable Internet

Research and prioritize locations with reliable Wi-Fi, or consider investing in a local SIM card with a data plan as a backup.

Dedicated Workspace

Even if it’s just a corner of your Airbnb, having a designated area for work helps you stay focused. This physical separation can mentally shift you into “work mode.”

Time Management

Set clear work hours and stick to them as much as possible. This prevents work from bleeding into your travel time and vice versa. Utilize tools and apps to track your tasks and manage deadlines.

With a stable work foundation, you can start incorporating travel into your schedule:

Short Trips on Weekends

Take advantage of Colombia’s excellent domestic travel options. Explore nearby towns, hike through national parks, or relax on the coast during your days off.

Longer Stays with Flexible Work

Plan extended stays in cities you want to explore deeply. Allow time for both focused work sessions and leisurely exploration. Having a flexible work schedule enables this balance.

Leverage Holidays

Utilize Colombia’s public holidays or your personal vacation days for longer trips to other destinations in the country.

The beauty of the digital nomad lifestyle lies in its flexibility, but it also requires adaptability. Internet outages, unexpected travel delays, or simply needing a change of scenery are all part of the journey.

Backup Plans

Always have backup plans for internet, workspaces, and travel. Be ready to adjust your schedule as needed.

Embrace the Spontaneity

Sometimes, the best adventures are unplanned. Be open to detours and opportunities that arise, but ensure they don’t derail your work commitments or risk your safety.

Communicate Expectations:

If you’re working with a team or clients, communicate your travel plans and any potential changes in availability. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings.

As you explore one of the most stunning countries in the world, remember that you are surrounded by warm-hearted people who take great pride in their roots, traditions, and culture. They are excited to share these aspects with you, so make the most of your time here. Approach your experience responsibly by managing your time wisely, seeking out trustworthy individuals or agencies, and connecting with locals as well as the vibrant nomad community. This will not only enhance your journey but also ensure your safety. Always check reviews for accommodations, restaurants, activities, and services you plan to use. It’s important to care for the places you visit by protecting the environment, respecting local cultures, and preserving local wildlife. Fully embrace all that Colombia has to offer and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

Medellin Guru's comprehensive visa and passport series

The Colombian visa changes that went into effect in October 2022 were significant. So, on the Medellin Guru site, we have a comprehensive series of visa articles that are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions. These articles include:

We have looked in detail at the nine most popular Colombian visas used by foreigners:

Also, we have looked in detail at three additional Colombian visas, which are less popular for foreigners:

Rentista visa (annuity visa) – for foreigners with a fixed income
Beneficiary visa – for relatives of visa holders
Expertise visa – for professionals

In addition, we have a guide to Colombia tourist visas and how to extend a tourist visa. Also, we have a guide to renewing U.S. passports in Colombia and a guide to obtaining a Colombian passport.

Furthermore, we provide information about travel insurance that meets the insurance requirement for Colombian visas. And we have a guide to how apply for a cedula extranjeria in Colombia and a guide to using notaries in Medellín and Colombia. Finally, Medellin Guru has partnered with a visa agency to offer Colombia visa services.

All of our Colombia visa articles are up to date (2024) and constantly receive updates in 2025.

Medellin Guru's comprehensive Colombian culture series

In Medellin Guru, we love Colombia, and we usually write many blogs about Colombian culture, places to visit, and other tips for all expats to have a reliable guide and valuable and relevant information about Colombia. Read our blogs about Colombian Culture here:

Other things to see and do in Colombia

Caño Cristales – the most beautiful river in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful river in the world by some people.
Carnival in Barranquilla – the second largest carnival in the world.
Cartagena – Oozing history, romance and sun-drenched beaches, the allure of historical Cartagena is hard to resist.
Ciudad Perdida – the site of an ancient city in Colombia that is older than Machu Picchu in Peru.
Colombia’s Pacific coast – often overlooked by tourists visiting Colombia but offering untamed nature and undiscovered beauty that is off the beaten path for most foreign tourists.
Desierto de la Tatacoa – the second largest arid zone in Colombia is Tatacoa Desert, which has surreal desert landscapes and some of the best stargazing in Colombia.
Guatapé – a picturesque pueblo near Medellín known for its huge rock and lake. And it’s likely the most visited pueblo in Colombia by foreigners.
La Guajira Peninsula – one of the most visually stunning places in South America, which is located on the northern tip of Colombia where the desert meets the sea.
Las Lajas Sanctuary – the most beautiful church in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful church in the world.
Medellín’s Christmas lights – Medellín’s annual world-class Christmas lights known as Alumbrados Navideños.
Feria de Las Flores Medellin – Medellín’s world-famous flower festival each year.
Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados – a popular national park in Colombia located in the heart of the Colombian coffee region.
Parque Tayrona – known for its beautiful beaches and the world’s highest coastal mountain range.
Popayán – a colonial gem in Colombia best known for its white buildings and churches, it’s a city off the beaten path for foreign tourists but is definitely worth visiting.
Rio Claro Nature Reserve – located about three hours from Medellín, Rio Claro is the perfect place to unplug from hectic daily life and enjoy a picturesque crystal-clear river, canyon and tropical rainforest.
Salento and the Cocora Valley – Salento is a picturesque pueblo in Colombia’s coffee region and the nearby Cocora Valley is one of the most striking landscapes found in Colombia.
San Agustín Archaeological Park – the largest group of pre-Columbian monuments and megalithic statues in South America and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
San Andrés – Colombia’s Caribbean island which is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve featuring many beaches, islets and coral reefs that are filled with flora and fauna.
San Gil – Colombia’s adventure capital that is full of things to do including white water rafting, paragliding, caving, rappelling, hiking and much more.
San Jose del Guaviare – a hidden gem and eco-tourism location off the beaten path and offering wildlife watching, jungle trekking and delving into Colombia’s prehistoric past.

The Bottom Line: Best Cities in Colombia for Remote Work and Travel

In conclusion, Colombia offers an incredible opportunity for digital nomads, characterized by its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, affordable cost of living, and strong infrastructure. By effectively balancing work responsibilities with travel goals and embracing both planning and spontaneity, you can make the most of the unique combination of productivity and adventure this enchanting country has to offer, leading to a truly memorable and enriching experience in the cities or towns we’ve suggested, or wherever you feel Colombia is awaiting you.

Just remember to take care of all the immigration requirements for your digital nomad visa application through our trusted partner, expatgroup.co, explore our available insurance options for added peace of mind, and cover your essential checklist for your optimal work performance.