Colombia

⚠️

Apple Pay / Google Wallet

Use instead: Nequi, Daviplata (local QR and e‑wallet apps)

🟡Local app preferred

Mobile tap‑to‑pay is supported, but Apple Pay acceptance in stores is uneven; QR payment apps are more common.

✅

WhatsApp

No direct substitute

🟢Works fine

WhatsApp is the default way Colombians communicate — works perfectly for messaging and calls.

✅

Google Maps

Use instead: Waze, Maps.me (for offline rural use)

🟢Works fine

Google Maps works excellently; Waze is also popular; offline alternatives helpful in rural/off‑grid areas.

⚠️

Uber

Use instead: DiDi / Cabify / inDrive

🟡Local app preferred

Uber works in Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena but sits in a legal grey area — drivers may ask you to sit up front. DiDi and Cabify are solid alternatives.

Internet is unrestricted, VPNs generally work but usage norms vary; note temporary local network outages can happen.

✅

Facebook / Instagram / TikTok

No direct substitute

🟢Works fine

All major platforms accessible; some local business or activist accounts have faced takedowns, but general access is unaffected.