Hi there! I’m Nicholas, an American living in the vibrant country of Colombia, and I’m excited to share insights about the fascinating Colombian currency, the Peso Colombiano (COP).
Getting and Exchanging Money
In Bogotá, you’ll find numerous exchange bureaus offering competitive rates for converting US Dollars or Euros to COP. The most reliable ones are located in the Emerald Trade Center on Av. Jiménez and Carrera 5.
- Tip: Withdraw cash from city ATMs for better rates than at the airport.
- Check out our Currency Converter for up-to-date exchange rates.
Remember, exchange rates fluctuate, so keep an eye on them, especially before traveling. For global currency trends, visit xe.com and consider their app for timely exchange rate notifications.
ATMs in Colombia
You’ll find ATMs in most cities and tourist spots in Colombia. Just be aware of the fees for cash withdrawals and try to withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize these charges.
Where to Exchange Money in Bogotá
Head to the Emerald Center in downtown Bogotá for trustworthy currency exchange services. Always compare rates at a few places to ensure the best deal.
- Remember to monitor market exchange rate fluctuations and the convenience of withdrawing from banks.
Currency Limits and Exchange
The maximum unreported currency entry limit to Colombia is $10,000 USD. Exchanging Euros or American dollars to pesos is straightforward at any exchange bureau or even upon airport arrival.
Colombian Money Tales
Every Colombian banknote tells a story. Let’s delve into some of these intriguing tales.
The 5,000 COP Note
This note features the bohemian Colombian poet José Asunción Silva, known for his tragic love for his sister Elvira, depicted on the note’s reverse side. Silva’s story is marked by his mysterious death, influenced by unrequited love.
- Visit Silva’s statue in downtown Bogotá, marked by a book, cane, and a heart-shaped void.
The 10,000 COP Note
Honoring the Colombian Independence heroine Policarpa Salavarrieta, this note reflects her courage during the oppressive Spanish regime. Her final words and her resting place in Bogotá’s Church of La Veracruz remain symbols of her legacy.
The 20,000 COP Note
Featuring astronomer Julio Garavito, this note highlights his achievements and skepticism towards Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. The reverse side showcases the National Astronomical Observatory and the moon’s Garavito Crater.
New Colombian Banknotes
Now, let’s explore the new Colombian banknotes, each highlighting significant Colombian figures and landscapes.
- 2,000 Pesos: Painter Débora Arango on the front and the Caño Cristales river on the back.
- 5,000 Pesos: José Asunción Silva returns on the front, with Colombian páramos on the back.
- 10,000 Pesos: Anthropologist Virginia Gutiérrez de Pineda and the Colombian Amazonia.
- 20,000 Pesos: President Alfonso López Michelsen and the iconic sombrero vueltiao.
- 50,000 Pesos: Writer Gabriel García Márquez and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
- 100,000 Pesos: Carlos Lleras Restrepo and the striking Valle de Cocora.
Colombia’s New Coins
In 2012, Colombia introduced new coins featuring its rich biodiversity and water resources, promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development.
- 50 Pesos: Spectacled bear on the front, made of steel and nickel.
- 100 Pesos: Frailejón plant, native to Andean páramos.
- 200 Pesos: Colorful Ara Macao parrot, crafted in alpaca.
- 500 Pesos: The unique glass frog, using a mix of alpaca, copper, aluminum, and nickel.
- 1,000 Pesos: Turtle caguama, with a design that changes from “MIL” to “BRC” based on viewing angle.