Colombia is a vibrant, diverse country full of unique traditions that reflect the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture. For many travelers and foreign residents, Colombian customs are a fascinating blend of joy, hospitality, and peculiarities not seen anywhere else in the world.
From how we greet each other to how we celebrate, there are habits that cause amazement and admiration to those who arrive for the first time.
Next, we will explore those typical Colombian customs that most attract the attention of visitors, explaining their origin, meaning, and how they are lived today.
The warm greeting and closeness with others
In Colombia, greeting someone is a fundamental gesture of respect and friendliness. Unlike in other countries where greetings are more formal or distant, here a kiss on the cheek or a hug are completely normal, even between people who have just met.
Foreigners are often surprised to notice that Colombians ask "How are you?" and actually expect a response. Furthermore, a friendly tone of voice and a constant smile are part of our social identity.
Punctuality… flexible
One of the customs most often discussed by foreigners in Colombia is the relaxed attitude towards punctuality. In many regions, arriving a few minutes late to a meeting or social event is not considered a serious offense.
Expressions like “I’m coming,” “in five minutes,” or “I’ll be there soon” can mean that the person is still at home. This often confuses those from cultures where punctuality is strictly observed, but in Colombia, it’s seen as perfectly normal in an informal and relaxed setting.
A love for music and dancing at any time
In Colombia, music isn't just entertainment: it's a way of life. Whether you're in a store, on a bus, or in an office, if a good song comes on, someone will dance .
Foreigners are often fascinated to see how the rhythm of vallenato, salsa, reggaeton or cumbia accompanies any occasion.
Dancing is also a social tool that unites people. At Colombian parties, there's no fear of looking silly; everyone is encouraged to dance, laugh, and share.
The custom of offering food and coffee to visitors
In almost every Colombian home, receiving a visitor is synonymous with hospitality. The phrase "¿quiere un tintico?" (a cup of coffee) is practically obligatory when someone arrives.
Whether it's a friend, a neighbor, or a foreigner, you always offer something to drink or eat as a sign of courtesy.
This custom surprises many visitors because it demonstrates the characteristic generosity of the Colombian people, who deeply value coexistence and kindness.
Family celebrations and Christmas novenas
Colombia is one of the most festive countries in the world, and family gatherings are at the heart of its culture. The novenas de aguinaldos during December, for example, bring together families, neighbors, and friends around Christmas carols, buñuelos, and natilla.
Foreigners are amazed to see how Colombians celebrate Christmas, patron saint festivals or birthdays with such enthusiasm, where music and dancing are never lacking.
More than a date on the calendar, celebrations in Colombia are an act of unity and affection.
Popular religiosity
Although Colombia is a modern country, religious faith continues to occupy a central place in daily life. Processions, pilgrimages, Sunday masses, and patron saint festivals are part of the traditions of each region.
Foreigners often admire the respect and devotion with which dates such as Holy Week in Popayán, the Day of the Virgin of Carmen or the festivities in honor of the Divine Child on July 20 are celebrated.
These expressions of spirituality blend with the joy typical of Colombians, giving rise to a festive and very human Catholicism.
The particular way of speaking
Colombians are known for having a “neutral” Spanish, but the truth is that each region has its own unique accent, idioms, and expressions .
Words like “chévere”, “parce”, “guayabo”, “trancón” or “bacano” often confuse foreigners, who end up learning them with pleasure.
Also surprising is the friendly and respectful tone, where expressions like "with pleasure", "at your service" or "please" are common in any daily interaction.
That natural courtesy is one of the reasons why Colombians are considered among the friendliest people in the world.
The value of family and community
One of the Colombian customs most admired by foreigners is the strong family bond. In Colombia, ties with parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are very strong, and important decisions are usually made together.
Large families get together frequently, share meals on Sundays, and celebrate special occasions together.
This closeness generates a strong sense of community that many visitors highlight as one of the most beautiful things about the country.
Respect for elders
Another striking feature is the deep respect that Colombians show towards older adults.
They are affectionately called "don" or "doña", they are given the seat, and their opinions have important value within the family.
This trait, which may seem traditional, is a sign of appreciation for one's roots and personal history.
Joy even in difficult times
Perhaps what surprises foreigners the most is Colombian resilience and optimism .
Even in difficult circumstances, humor, smiles, and hope are present. Colombians often say "everything's fine" even when things aren't, because they believe in the possibility of overcoming adversity.
That positive attitude is one of the reasons why many visitors end up falling in love with Colombia and its people.