Colombian Peso (COP) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of COP50,000, 20,000, 10,000 and 5000. Coins are in denominations of COP1000, 500, 200, 100 and 50.

The exchange rate tends to be lower on the Caribbean coast than in Bogotá, Medellín and Cali. The US Dollar is the easiest currency to exchange at hotels, banks, shops and travel agencies, but all establishments charge an exchange fee. Travellers are advised to only use reputable exchange houses.

All major cards are accepted.

These are not always easy to change in the smaller towns, except at branches of the Banco de la República. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars which can be exchanged at banks, foreign exchange and large hotels.

The import and export of local currency is unlimited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited subject to declaration on arrival. The export of foreign currency is limited to US$25,000.

Bogota: Mon-Fri 0900-1500. In other cities: Mon-Fri, 0800-1130 and 1400-1630. On the last business day of every month, banks close at 1200.