Colombia Shopping and nightlife

Colombia offers a wide range of locally made handicrafts, textiles, jewellery and food products. Colombian coffee is an obvious purchase, with speciality beans from regions such as Huila, Nariño and the Zona Cafetera widely available in coffee shops, supermarkets and specialist stores. Other popular food products include locally produced chocolate and panela (unrefined cane sugar).

Traditional handicrafts vary considerably by region. Mochilas, colourful woven shoulder bags made by Indigenous communities, are among the most recognisable Colombian crafts; Wayuu bags from La Guajira are particularly well-known. Other items include woven baskets, hammocks, ceramics, leather goods and brightly painted wooden crafts. When buying Indigenous handicrafts, purchasing directly from artisans or reputable fair-trade outlets helps ensure that producers receive a fair return.

Colombia is a major producer of emeralds, and Bogotá has numerous specialist jewellers and emerald dealers. Buyers should use established retailers that provide documentation confirming the stone's characteristics and authenticity, particularly for expensive purchases. Gold and silver jewellery, including traditional filigree work from Mompox, is also widely available.

Modern shopping centres are found throughout Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena and other large cities, while markets and small independent shops are better for regional crafts and local products. Bargaining may be acceptable in informal markets and craft stalls, but prices in shops, shopping centres and established boutiques are normally fixed.