Is American Express (Amex) accepted in Colombia?

Thought my ANZ Amex would be fine in Colombia - wrong. Even an art gallery in Cartagena didn’t take it. It worked at an ATM in the Marriott and a major shopping center, but that’s about it. My Revolut Visa worked everywhere. Don’t rely on Amex unless you’re only staying in 5-star hotels.

I was able to use Amex at Bogotá airport, in Carulla supermarket, and at Juan Valdez Café. But everywhere else - taxis, boutique shops, SIM card store, even a bakery, all wanted cash or Visa. Wise Visa card was accepted every time. So yes, carry a backup Visa or Mastercard for 90% of your trip.

My Amex worked at Hard Rock Café Medellín, but was declined at a hostel, a pharmacy, and a coffee shop in El Poblado. Locals said most vendors avoid Amex due to high fees. I used my Monzo Mastercard for almost everything after that. You can try with Amex, but don’t expect it to be your main card here.

I used Amex at the Hilton in Bogotá, at Crepes & Waffles, and some stores in malls all fine. But try using it at a hostel, small restaurant, or local tour operator? No chance. Colombia just isn’t Amex-friendly. I brought my Chase Visa as backup and ended up using it 90% of the time. Bring a Mastercard or Visa  you’ll need it.

This Servibanca ATM is inside a EURO supermarket. Accepts Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus. Smooth operation with a fee of 16k COP.

Servibanca ATMs in Colombia work with Visa, Mastercard, and Cirrus cards. Safe, functional, and low fee (around 16k COP). But I wouldn t rely on using Amex - not many places accept it