Travel Health Guide: Colombia
Travelers to Colombia should get Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever at minimum. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for certain regions.
Essential Vaccines for Colombia
Hepatitis A
Recommended for all travelers — food/waterborne transmission risk
Typhoid
Recommended for travelers visiting areas outside major hotels
Routine Boosters
Ensure MMR, polio, tetanus-diphtheria are current
Yellow Fever
Required for certain departments; required if arriving from endemic country
Recommended Vaccines
Hepatitis B
For extended stays or potential exposure
Rabies
For adventure travelers or those with animal contact risk
Malaria Risk Assessment
Malaria risk in rural areas below 1700m, particularly Pacific coast and Amazon. Not present in Bogotá, Medellín, or Cartagena centres.
Malaria prevention
Our physician will assess your specific Colombia itinerary and recommend the appropriate antimalarial medication:
- Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone): Daily, fewer side effects, ideal for short trips
- Doxycycline: Daily, affordable, sun sensitivity — good for longer stays
- Mefloquine: Weekly dosing, potential mood/sleep effects
When to get vaccinated
Book your Colombia travel consultation 4–6 weeks before departure to allow time for multi-dose vaccines and full immunity to develop. Traveling sooner? Call us — same-day appointments are often available.
What to bring to your appointment
Bring your passport, any existing vaccination records, a list of current medications, and your detailed travel itinerary including destinations, dates, and planned activities.
Medical Disclaimer & Sources
Vaccine recommendations are based on current Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) Guidelines and may change. Individual recommendations depend on your health history, itinerary, and current outbreaks. Always consult a travel medicine specialist for personalized advice.
View current Government of Canada travel advisory for Colombia .
Book Your Colombia Travel Consultation
Visit our travel clinic in Mississauga for a personalized pre-travel consultation and all required vaccines.
(905) 890-2757Disclaimer: Vaccine requirements and health recommendations vary by itinerary, medical history, and current health advisories. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a personalized travel health consultation. Please book an appointment with our physician for advice specific to your trip.