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Colombia, a diverse, colourful and welcoming country. It is an unrivalled destination for nature lovers, quality cuisine, a variety of climates and the diversity of its natural landscapes. If as a digital nomad you are wondering which are the best cities to live in Colombia, in this guide we provide you with the answer with an informative and comprehensive top 5, telling you about the highlights of each location. We also tell you which are the best towns to live as a digital nomad in Colombia and the best alternatives according to your lifestyle and the experience you want to have in this South American country. 

Colombian best cities to live in
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Top 5 cities to live in as a digital nomad in Colombia

5. Cali

Cali, known as the salsa capital, is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with an active nightlife. This southwestern Colombian city combines tradition and modernity, offering digital nomads an accessible location with a warm climate throughout the year.

Key features

  • Affordable cost of living: Cali is one of the cheapest cities in the country, allowing you to enjoy a good lifestyle on a tight budget.
  • Coworking spaces: although the offer is not as extensive as in Bogotá or Medellín, there are several collaborative spaces to work in, such as Yoffice and Enfoque Lab.
  • Culture and entertainment: Cali offers multiple festivals, salsa shows and cultural venues. In addition, its proximity to natural destinations such as Los Farallones National Park makes it an attractive option for those looking to balance work and leisure.
  • Quality of life: the city enjoys a slower pace of life than major capitals, which may appeal to those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.

Despite its advantages, it is important to consider safety in some neighbourhoods and to give due thought to the areas in which you want to live and work.

4. Cartagena

Cartagena de Indias, located on the Caribbean coast, is a city full of history, colonial architecture and beaches. Its tropical atmosphere attracts both tourists and digital nomads looking to combine work and relaxation by the sea.

Key features

  • Connectivity and infrastructure: Cartagena has good internet connectivity in most tourist areas and a growing number of coworking spaces, such as Co-Work Cartagena.
  • Tourism and culture: the walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a wide range of cultural activities, restaurants and bars.
  • International community: the presence of foreigners and frequent travellers has facilitated the creation of communities that organise meetings and events.
  • Tropical surroundings: living close to the sea is one of the main attractions, and nearby islands such as Baru and the Rosario Islands offer ideal weekend getaways to unwind.

Cartagena is an ideal choice for digital nomads who value proximity to the sea and a tropical lifestyle. However, the cost of living can be higher compared to other cities in the country.

3. Pereira

Located in the heart of the Eje Cafetero, Pereira combines the charm of a medium-sized city with an unrivalled natural environment. It’s a great option for digital nomads who prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities without sacrificing modern conveniences.

Key features

  • Reasonable cost of living: Pereira offers affordable prices for accommodation and food, allowing for a comfortable life without great expense.
  • Flexible workspaces: the city has seen a growth in the supply of cafés with good internet and some coworking spaces, such as Social & Co and Coworking in Pereira.
  • Privileged natural environment: Pereira is surrounded by mountains and coffee-growing landscapes, ideal for those who enjoy ecotourism. Places such as Los Nevados National Park are within easy reach, offering unique hiking and adventure experiences.
  • Quality of life: the city is known for its tranquillity and hospitality. Its year-round mild climate makes it perfect for outdoor work.

Pereira is an attractive option for those seeking a balance between nature and urbanism, with the possibility of discovering the world of coffee in its place of origin.

2. Barranquilla

Barranquilla, located on the northern coast of Colombia, has emerged as an interesting destination for digital nomads looking to enjoy a Caribbean atmosphere with the dynamism of a growing city. Known as “Colombia’s Golden Gate” for its port and industrial importance, the city offers a mix of tradition and modernity.

Key features

  • Connectivity and coworking: collaborative workspaces are on the rise, with options such as Lyd House and WeWork providing suitable environments for freelancers and remote workers. Internet infrastructure is reliable in urban areas.
  • Affordable cost of living: Barranquilla is cheaper than other cities such as Bogotá or Cartagena, with accommodation options for different budgets. Local food and transport are also affordable.
  • Culture and festivities: the city is famous for its Carnival, one of the most important in Colombia, which reflects the cultural richness and festive spirit of the region. Throughout the year, digital nomads can enjoy a wide variety of events and recreational activities.
  • Strategic location: the proximity to other coastal cities and tourist destinations, such as Santa Marta and the Tayrona Park, allows for quick getaways for those seeking outdoor adventures.

Barranquilla is an excellent option for digital nomads who want to be close to the sea without the high costs of Cartagena, taking advantage of the hospitality of the Colombian Caribbean.

1. Medellín

Medellín has positioned itself as the best city to live as a digital nomad in Colombia thanks to its pleasant climate, modern infrastructure and dynamic technology scene. The city’s transformation in recent decades has given it a reputation for innovation, making it a benchmark in the country and throughout Latin America.

Key features

  • Excellent connectivity and coworking spaces: Medellín has one of the best digital infrastructures in the country. Coworking spaces, such as Selina and WeWork, offer modern, collaborative environments. Many local cafés also have high-speed internet, making it easy to work from anywhere.
  • Spring-like weather all year round: with an average temperature of 24°C, Medellín offers a perfect climate for working outdoors without worrying about extreme heat or constant rain.
  • Community of digital nomads and foreigners: the city has attracted a large number of remote workers, which facilitates professional and social networking. Similarly, there are plenty of networking and meet-up events.
  • Mobility and efficient transport: Medellín is renowned for its transport system, which includes the metro, cable cars and integrated buses, making it easy to get around the city.
  • Culture and innovation: the city has museums, art galleries, festivals and innovation spaces such as Ruta N. Its natural surroundings, with quick access to parks and mountains, make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balance between work and leisure.

Medellín is a favourite city for many digital nomads in Colombia due to its lifestyle, innovative environment and opportunities to connect with an international community.

Colombia is full of cultural diversity
Colombia, a country of picturesque landscapes @unsplash

Best towns to live as a digital nomad in Colombia

While big cities offer all the necessary amenities for digital nomads, towns also represent an interesting option for those seeking tranquillity and a closer contact with nature. Here are the best towns to live in Colombia for digital nomads:

  • Guatapé (Antioquia): known for its colourful facades and iconic Piedra del Peñol, Guatapé is an ideal destination for those who want to live close to Medellín whilst enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere. Internet connections are adequate in most tourist areas, and the proximity to the city allows for quick getaways to urban spaces.
  • Salento (Quindío): this small town in the Eje Cafetero is famous for its green landscapes and coffee plantations. As well as being a perfect place for those who enjoy ecotourism, Salento has a growing selection of cafés with good internet, which makes it attractive for digital nomads looking for peace and quiet without losing connectivity.
  • Villa de Leyva (Boyacá): with its colonial architecture and bohemian atmosphere, Villa de Leyva is ideal for those who prefer the tranquillity of a historic town. Although their internet connection is not as fast as in the big cities, it is still sufficient for remote work. The town also offers cultural activities and events throughout the year.
  • Palomino (La Guajira): this small town on the Caribbean coast has become popular with those seeking a lifestyle closer to nature. Its beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal destination to unwind, although it is important to consider that internet infrastructure can be limited.
  • Jardín (Antioquia): With its mountain scenery and cool climate, Jardín is an excellent choice for those who enjoy hiking and nature. In addition to its charming squares and architecture, the town has spaces to work and connect to the internet, making it viable for extended stays.

These towns represent an interesting alternative for digital nomads looking to get away from the fast pace of cities and immerse themselves in nature and local culture. Although the infrastructure may not be as advanced as in Medellín or Bogotá, each of these destinations offers a unique experience, perfect for combining work and relaxation.

Why live as a digital nomad in Colombia?

Colombia offers a unique combination of advantages for digital nomads, positioning it as one of the most attractive destinations in Latin America. With its cultural, climatic and geographical diversity, the country offers options for those seeking both the dynamism of big cities and the tranquillity of towns surrounded by nature. In addition to being an affordable location, Colombia has a growing infrastructure that facilitates the remote work experience.

Reasons to choose Colombia as a destination for digital nomads

  • Competitive cost of living: compared to other major countries, living in Colombia is more affordable. Accommodation, food and transport are cheaper, allowing nomads to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without overspending.
  • Quality of internet connections and coworking spaces Cities such as Medellín and Bogotá stand out for their connectivity and for offering modern and functional coworking spaces. These locations provide a suitable working environment, as well as opportunities for professional networking and collaboration with other remote workers.
  • The climate varies from region to region: from the mild, spring-like climate of Medellín to the warm beaches of Cartagena, Colombia has something for everyone. This allows nomads to choose an environment that suits their personal preferences.
  • Ease of travel: Colombia’s strategic location facilitates travel to other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Air and land transport within the country is also affordable, allowing you to visit different destinations without much hassle.
  • International communities and co-living: Colombia has attracted a growing community of foreigners and digital nomads. This has facilitated the opening of co-living spaces in cities such as Medellín. These spaces offer accommodation and integrated work areas, ideal for those looking for a more social experience.
  • Visas and long-stay visas: Colombia offers several visa options that allow for temporary residence, facilitating the arrival and stay of remote workers. The digital nomad visa is an attractive alternative for those who wish to spend a longer period of time in the country. For more information, you can consult our guide on the digital nomad visa in Colombia.
  • Cultural and recreational opportunities: the country is rich in cultural events, festivals and outdoor activities. Whether exploring the Eje Cafetero, enjoying the nightlife in Cali or relaxing on the beaches of the Caribbean, Colombia offers options for balancing work and leisure.

Living in Colombia as a digital nomad means having a place to work and also having the possibility to integrate into an active community and experience a more enriching lifestyle.

towns for digital nomads in Colombia
There are several towns for digital nomads in Colombia @unsplash

Frequently asked questions when choosing the best city to live as a digital nomad in Colombia

1. What are the best cities in Colombia to live as a digital nomad?

The best city is Medellín, thanks to its spring-like climate, excellent connectivity, and dynamic international community. The city offers multiple coworking spaces, co-living options and an efficient transport infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for remote workers.

2. Where is the best town to live as a digital nomad in Colombia?

Guatapé is an excellent option for those seeking tranquillity without being too far from the city. Located near Medellín, this colourful town offers spectacular views and an internet connection suitable for remote working.

3. Is it safe to live in Colombia as a digital nomad?

Generally speaking, major cities such as Medellín, Bogotá and Cartagena are safe for digital nomads, especially in tourist and residential areas. However, it is important to research neighbourhoods before choosing where to stay and to follow basic safety recommendations. As well as avoiding travel to certain areas at night.

4. Why live as a digital nomad in Colombia?

The cost of living depends on the city and the individual’s lifestyle. In cities such as Medellín and Bogotá, a person could live comfortably on a budget of between US$1,000 and US$1,500 per month. This includes accommodation, food and leisure. In smaller cities or towns, costs may be even lower.

5. What type of visa do I need to live as a digital nomad in Colombia?

Colombia offers the digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to reside in the country for extended periods of time. This visa is designed for those who work for foreign companies or as freelancers, facilitating legal stay without the need for a local employment contract. For more details, see our full guide to the digital nomad visa in Colombia.

6. Is it possible to work from cafés in Colombia?

Yes, many Colombian cities have a wide range of fast internet cafés, ideal for those who enjoy working in a more informal environment. Medellín and Bogotá are known for their speciality cafés, which offer not only good coffee but also comfortable spaces to work in.

7. Are there digital nomad communities in Colombia?

Yes, cities like Medellín and Cartagena have active communities of digital nomads and foreigners. Through networking events, meetups and activities organised in coworking spaces, it is easy to connect with people who share a similar lifestyle.

8. What is the best time of year to live in Colombia as a digital nomad?

Colombia has a diverse climate depending on the region, but in general, it is a year-round destination. However, it is advisable to avoid the rainy season in certain areas. For example, in Bogotá and the Eje Cafetero, rainfall tends to be more frequent between April and June, and from September to November, but this will depend on your preferences.

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