Can you drink tap water in Colombia?

No, travelers are warned against drinking tap water in Colombia due to hygiene concerns.

In Colombia, water safety varies by city, but even in urban areas, the risk of contamination remains due to infrastructure issues. Most travelers choose bottled water.

Quick Overview

Tap Water Concern:Our Advice
Tap Water Drinkable?❌ No, use bottled water
Common Risks:Bacteria, parasites, viruses
Brush Teeth?❌ No, use bottled water
Wash Fruits/Vegetables?❌ No, use filtered or bottled water
Use Ice in Drinks?❌ No, avoid unless purified
Safe to Shower?✅ Yes
Filter Bottle Needed?✅ Strongly recommended

Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across Colombia.

Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle

A filter bottle gives you one big advantage while traveling: control. Whether you’re unsure about the water in your hotel or exploring remote areas, it gives you the confidence to stay hydrated without getting sick or contributing to plastic waste. We’ve reviewed the most effective, lightweight, and traveler-approved options available—our recommendations are listed just below.

Water Filter Bottle – LifeStraw

Rating

★★★★★
A full view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a smooth, light surface. The black lid features an integrated carry handle, making the bottle easy to clip onto a backpack or hold while traveling. Through the clear body, the internal filtration system is visible, including the long white membrane microfilter designed to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically along the front of the bottle in white. The clean, minimal background keeps the focus on the durable, BPA-free bottle—made from 50% recycled plastic—and reinforces its purpose as a reliable, travel-ready filter bottle for safe, great-tasting water during trips, outdoor activities, and everyday use.
A disassembled LifeStraw Go water bottle laid out on a light-colored surface, showing all the key components of the two-stage filtration system. The translucent gray bottle stands in the background with the LifeStraw logo visible. In front of it, the long white membrane microfilter lies horizontally, displaying its vented design used to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. Next to it are the smaller parts: the activated carbon filter pod that reduces chlorine and odors, the white connector piece that attaches the filters inside the bottle, and the black screw-on lid with its integrated drinking spout. The layout highlights how each part fits together, reinforcing the bottle’s functionality, easy maintenance, and purpose as a durable, BPA-free, travel-ready filtration system made from recycled plastic.
A straight-on view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a light surface. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically in white along the front of the bottle. Through the clear plastic you can see the internal two-stage filtration system, including the long cylindrical microfilter that removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, as well as the lower section where the activated carbon filter fits to improve taste by reducing chlorine and odors. The black lid with the built-in sip spout sits securely on top. The clean, minimal background draws attention to the durable, BPA-free design made from 50% recycled plastic—highlighting the bottle’s purpose as a reliable, eco-friendly filter bottle for travel, everyday hydration, and safe drinking water on the go.
A close-up photo of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle showing the “MAX 0.65L” fill line printed in white on the side. Small droplets of water cling to the surface, suggesting the bottle was just rinsed or recently used. Through the clear plastic, the internal filtration system is visible—the upper cartridge that houses the two-stage filter combining a membrane microfilter for bacteria, parasites, microplastics, sediment, and cloudiness, and an activated carbon filter to reduce chlorine, odors, and aftertaste. The top portion of the lid with the built-in drinking spout appears at the edge of the frame. The image highlights the durable, BPA-free construction made from 50% recycled plastic. It supports product information about the LifeStraw Go series, which provides safer, better-tasting water for travel, outdoor use, and everyday hydration, while also contributing one year of clean drinking water to a child in need with every purchase.
Protection: Filters bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and dirt from unsafe water
Travel-Ready: Safe to use in countries with non-drinkable tap water
Better Taste: Carbon filter reduces chlorine, odors, and chemical flavor
Eco-Friendly: Replaces up to 8,000 single-use plastic bottles
Long-Lasting: Membrane filter lasts up to 1,000 gallons
Safe Materials: BPA-free, durable, and leak-proof design
Budget-Friendly: Cuts daily costs on bottled water
Convenient: Great for airports, hikes, hotels, and remote areas
Check Price on Amazon

Health Risks for Travelers

Locals might drink the tap water every day without a second thought, but for travelers, it’s a different story. Your body isn’t used to the bacteria or water treatment systems, which can lead to a not-so-fun experience.

What you could be dealing with:

  • E. coli and other bacteria causing traveler’s diarrhea
  • Parasites like Giardia from untreated or poorly filtered water
  • Hepatitis A or norovirus picked up in areas with poor sanitation
  • Even heavy metals if the pipes are outdated or the source is unregulated

Problem spots include:

  • Remote villages and rural zones
  • Places where floods disrupt the water supply
  • Older hotels or buildings using rooftop tanks or old plumbing

Bottom line: clean-looking water isn’t always clean. When you’re abroad, it’s smart to stay alert to water quality and protect yourself from getting sick.

If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Colombia, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.

More About Tap Water in Colombia

Water quality in Colombia varies a lot depending on where you are. Cities like Bogotá and Medellín have solid water treatment systems, and the tap water is generally safe to drink there. But in rural areas, the infrastructure isn’t always up to par. Many people—locals and travelers alike—use water filters or boil their water just to be safe.

FAQs About Tap Water in Colombia

Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?

Many travelers prefer to brush with bottled water just to avoid any chance of waterborne illness.

Can I use tap water to wash my face?

Most travelers don’t report issues from face-washing, but bottled water is an option if you’re very cautious.

Is it safe to use ice in drinks?

Ask if the ice is made from bottled or treated water—if not, it’s safer to go without.

Can I shower safely with tap water?

Showering is generally safe—just don’t get water in your mouth or eyes, and you should be fine.

If you’re looking to be on the safe side—or just want to be kind to your skin and hair while you’re abroad—a travel-friendly shower filter can be a smart add-on. You can usually screw it right onto the showerhead in just a minute. Just make sure the connection point is exposed. Some showers are built into the wall, and in that case, a filter won’t do much good. Check the latest price here.

Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?

For raw fruits and vegetables, play it safe and wash them with clean water you know is safe.

Is bottled water expensive in Colombia?

Local brands are often cheaper than imported ones, making bottled water a practical and safe daily choice.

Colombia is frequently visited together with Venezuela, Ecuador, and Brazil—especially on overland or backpacking routes—so be sure to compare the water quality throughout your trip.

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