Retire in Villavicencio, Colombia
Last updated on Apr 08, 2025
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Villavicencio, Colombia for its warm climate, low cost of living, and friendly people. The weather in Villavicencio is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. There are several retirement communities in Villavicencio, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Villavicencio is typically around $50,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $70,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Villavicencio?
"Retiring in Villavicencio can be an enjoyable experience. The city is peaceful and relaxed, offering retirees a great opportunity to explore the outdoors, take advantage of the city's many parks and lakes, and enjoy the culture and nightlife. The cost of living is relatively low and public transportation is efficient, making Villavicencio a great place to live without having to worry about excessive expenses. Additionally, the city provides a range of excellent health care services, and there are a number of recreational activities for retirees to take advantage of as well. Villavicencio's rich culture also provides retirees with an interesting look into the city's history, and with its warm and sunny climate, Villavicencio is a great option for retirees looking for a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle," said a person in Villavicencio.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"When considering retiring abroad, it is important to research the destination country thoroughly, looking into things such as affordability and cost of living, the local culture, the health care system, and the quality of the lifestyle. Additionally, it can be helpful to connect with people who have already retired to the chosen destination, so you can get advice from those who have gone through the process before. Lastly, it is a good idea to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to research, so you can make an informed decision regarding your retirement plans," remarked one retiree in Villavicencio.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Villavicencio?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Villavicencio is the language barrier. Although Spanish is the official language, many locals also speak their own regional dialects, which can be difficult for non-native speakers to understand. Additionally, the cost of living in Villavicencio is relatively high, making it difficult for retirees to stretch their savings. Furthermore, the city is located in a rural area, so access to medical care and other services may be limited. Finally, the climate in Villavicencio can be quite hot and humid, which may be uncomfortable for some retirees," said one retiree in Villavicencio.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Villavicencio?
"Retiring in Villavicencio offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its friendly people, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. Residents can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The cost of living is also very affordable, making it a great place to retire on a budget. Additionally, Villavicencio is close to many of Colombia's major cities, allowing retirees to explore the country and take advantage of all it has to offer," said a retiree who moved to Villavicencio, Colombia.
What are healthcare services like in Villavicencio?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Villavicencio. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Villavicencio encompass a range of public and private healthcare providers. Public healthcare in the city is provided through hospitals, health centers and municipal clinics, offering affordable services to residents. Private hospital and clinic options are also available, with services for both general and specialized care. There are several laboratories in Villavicencio that provide a range of testing services. Additional health services such as physical therapy and mental health counseling are also available," said a retiree who moved to Villavicencio, Colombia.
How do I meet people in Villavicencio?
When we asked people living in Villavicencio about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Villavicencio can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting local markets, and exploring the city's many parks and attractions. Additionally, many expats join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," explained a retiree in Villavicencio.
What is life like in Villavicencio?
When we asked people living in Villavicencio what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Villavicencio is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its friendly locals, affordable cost of living, and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the nearby national parks to sampling the local cuisine. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury apartments. With its excellent infrastructure, reliable internet, and easy access to other cities, Villavicencio is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a comfortable and enjoyable place to live," remarked one retiree in Villavicencio.
What do I need to know before retiring in Villavicencio?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Villavicencio, they said:
"Before retiring in Villavicencio, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs. It is also important to research the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits to live and work in Colombia. Finally, it is important to learn some basic Spanish, as it is the primary language spoken in Villavicencio," explained a retiree in Villavicencio.
What type of recreational activities are there in Villavicencio?
"Villavicencio offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city has several parks, including Parque de los Fundadores, Parque de la Libertad, and Parque de la Paz, which offer a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and biking. The city also has several sports complexes, such as the Centro Deportivo Villavicencio, which offers a variety of sports such as basketball, volleyball, and soccer. Additionally, the city has several swimming pools, including the Piscina Municipal, which is open to the public. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the city also has several spas and wellness centers, such as the Centro de Bienestar y Salud. Finally, the city has several cultural attractions, such as the Museo de la Cultura, which offers a variety of exhibits and activities," said one person who retired in Villavicencio.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Villavicencio?
"Villavicencio is home to a variety of stores and markets where expats can buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular places to shop is the Centro Comercial La Gran Vía, located in the heart of the city. This shopping center offers a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. Additionally, there are several supermarkets in the area, such as Exito, Carulla, and Jumbo, where expats can buy groceries and other items. For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, the local markets, such as the Mercado de San Francisco and the Mercado de la Estrella, offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other items. Finally, expats can also find a variety of stores and restaurants in the city's many malls, such as the Mall Plaza Villavicencio and the Mall Plaza Real," wrote one person in Villavicencio.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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