Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Trading securities loss Trading Gain (Loss) Foreign currency derivatives gain (loss) Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Gain (Loss) on Investments and Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Gain (Loss) on Investments and Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Gain (Loss) on Investments and Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Fair value of contingent consideration Schedule of Fair Value, Contingent Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Contingent Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Gains Associated with Foreign Currency Derivatives Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Open Foreign Currency Derivative Positions Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Changes in Asset Retirement Obligations Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Weighted average number of common and exchangeable shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Shares issuable pursuant to warrants Incremental Common Shares issuable pursuant to warrants Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of warrants outstanding. Shares issuable pursuant to stock options Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Shares assumed to be purchased from proceeds of stock options Shares to be purchased from proceeds of stock options The number of shares to be purchased from the proceeds of stock options exercises. Weighted average number of diluted common and exchangeable shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Argentina [Member] ARGENTINA Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Argentina Business Unit [Member] Argentina Business Unit [Member] Argentina Business Unit [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] GTE ULC and PCESA [Member] Gran Tierra Argentina Holdings ULC and Petroleros Canadienses de Ecuador S.A. [Member] Gran Tierra Argentina Holdings ULC and Petroleros Canadienses de Ecuador S.A. [Member] Petroco [Member] Gran Tierra Petroco Inc. [Member] Gran Tierra Petroco Inc. [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Aggregate consideration Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Cash received Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Value of shares received Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Impairment loss Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties Business Combinations [Abstract] Business Combinations Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Compensation cost Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense including Capitalized Portion Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense including Capitalized Portion Less: Stock-based compensation costs capitalized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Stock-based compensation costs expensed Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Contractual Obligations [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Oil transportation services [Member] This element represents the future minimum payments due on Oil transportation services. Drilling and G&G [Member] Drilling and geological and geophysical [Member] This element represents the future minimum payments due on drilling and geological and geophysical services. Operating leases [Member] Operating leases [Member] This element represents the future minimum payments due on operating leases. Software and telecommunication [Member] Software and telecommunication [Member] This element represents the future minimum payments due on software and telecommunication leases. Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Total Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases 2015 Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due in Next Twelve Months Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due in Next Twelve Months 2016 Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Two Years Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Two Years 2017 Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Three Years Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Three Years 2018 Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Four Years Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Four Years 2019 Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Five Years Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due within Five Years Thereafter Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due after Five Years Purchase Obligations, Firm Agreements and Leases, Due after Five Years Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Proved [Member] Proved Oil and Gas Properties [Member] Oil and gas properties depletable base under full cost accounting Unproved [Member] Unproved - Oil and Gas Properties [Member] Long lived, assets used to produce or oil or gas, unproved. Oil and natural gas properties [Member] Oil and Gas Properties [Member] Furniture and fixtures and leasehold improvements [Member] Furniture and Fixtures and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Long lived, depreciable assets, commonly used in offices and stores. , additions or improvements to assets held under lease arrangement (including addition or improvement to asset held by lessee under operating lease arrangement). Computer equipment [Member] Computer Equipment [Member] Automobiles [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depletion, depreciation and impairment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization And Impairment, Property, Plant and Equipment The cumulative amount of depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment (related to property, plant and equipment, but not including land) that has been recognized in the income statement. Total Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Proved Proved Oil and gas properties full cost accounting Oil and Gas properties with proved reserves under the full cost method. Unproved oil and gas property full cost accounting Unproved oil and gas property full cost accounting Unproved oil and gas properties under the full cost method. Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Share Capital Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Director - Peru drilling program related party [Member] Director - Peru drilling program related party Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Capitalization of drilling program Capitalized Costs Oil And Gas Producing Activities with Related Parties Amount of capitalized costs relating to oil and gas producing activities for a specific drilling program entered with a related party. Accounts payable, drilling program Accounts Payable, Current Current assets Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Current Property, plant, and equipment Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Other long-term assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets Total assets Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Current liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Current Long-term liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Domain] Operating Activities [Domain] Continuing Operations [Member] Continuing Operations [Member] Discontinued Operations [Member] Discontinued Operations [Member] Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Colombia [Member] COLOMBIA Peru [Member] PERU Brazil [Member] BRAZIL All Other [Member] Other Segments [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment Goodwill Goodwill All other assets Other Current And Noncurrent Assets Assets other than PPE and goodwill, including working capital, restricted cash, deferred tax, other long term assets. Total Assets Assets Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income tax expense reported reconciliation to computed statutory rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Other Tax Carryforwards Summary of Tax Credit Carryforwards [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Forward Contract Expiring February 2015 [Member] Forward Contract Expiring February Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Forward Contract Expiring February Two Thousand Fifteen [Member] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Long [Member] Long [Member] Short [Member] Short [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Weighted Average Fixed Rate Received Derivative, Average Forward Exchange Rate Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Solana [Member] Solana [Member] Acquisition of the Canadian company, Solana. Argosy [Member] Argosy Energy International L.P. [Member] Argosy Energy International L.P. [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Depreciation rate for other capital assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Disclosure of Composite Depreciation Rate for Other Capital Assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Disclosure of Composite Depreciation Rate for Other Capital Assets Line of Credit Facility [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. [Member] Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. [Member] Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Foreign Line of Credit [Member] Foreign Line of Credit [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Number of subsidiaries used as collateral for reserve based facility Number of Subsidiaries used as Collateral for Reserve Based Facility Number of Subsidiaries used as Collateral for Reserve Based Facility Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Stand-by fee on unutilized balance Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Term of credit facility Debt Instrument, Term Max dividends payment allowable Line of Credit Facility, Covenants, Dividends Payments Allowable, Maximum without Approval Line of Credit Facility, Covenants, Dividends Payments Allowable, Maximum without Approval Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Receivables [Abstract] Accounts Receivable and Inventory Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Summary of Oil and Natural Gas Properties Summary of Oil and Natural Gas Properties Cost and Accumulated Depletion [Table Text Block] Summary of Oil and Natural Gas Properties Cost and Accumulated Depletion [Table Text Block] Segment and Geographic Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Valuation Allowance [Table] Valuation Allowance [Table] Income Tax Authority Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority Name [Domain] Income Tax Authority Name [Domain] [Domain] for Income Tax Authority Name [Axis] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Domain] Tax Period [Domain] [Domain] for Tax Period [Axis] Tax Year 2015 [Member] Tax Year 2015 [Member] Tax Year 2015 [Member] Tax Year 2016 [Member] Tax Year 2016 [Member] Tax Year 2016 [Member] Tax Year 2017 [Member] Tax Year 2017 [Member] Tax Year 2017 [Member] Tax Year 2018 [Member] Tax Year 2018 [Member] Tax Year 2018 [Member] Tax Year 2019 and Thereafter [Member] Tax Year 2019 and Thereafter [Member] Tax Year 2019 and Thereafter [Member] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Income tax reconciliation, other adjustments Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Income tax reconciliation, other adjustments offset by change in valuation allowance Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Offset by Change in Valuation Allowance Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Offset by Change in Valuation Allowance Foreign income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Foreign Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Foreign Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Foreign corporate statutory income tax rate (percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Foreign Corporate Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Foreign Corporate Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent CREE tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Statutory Income Tax For Equality Tax Rate, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Statutory Income Tax For Equality Tax Rate, Percent Increase in Deferred Tax Liability Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability Equity tax rate (in hundredths) Foreign equity tax rate Tax rate for foreign tax payable based on balance sheet equity for tax purposes Consolidated income tax rate, CREE tax and surtax, combined (percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Statutory Rate, CREE Tax and Surtax, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Statutory Rate, CREE Tax and Surtax, Percent Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Capital losses before valuation allowance Capital Loss Carryforwards Capital losses in excess of statutory limitations in historical filings, and which can only be utilized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods and providing tax laws continue to allow such utilization. Net operating loss carryforward from foreign subsidiaries Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Operations The sum of foreign operating loss carryforwards, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Decrease in valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount Unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized income tax penalties and interest accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized tax benefit included in income tax expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Other gain Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Equity tax Foreign equity tax expense Foreign tax payable in the period based on balance sheet equity for tax purposes Equity tax payable in number of semi-annual installments Equity Tax for Foreign Operations Number of Semi-Annual Installments Equity Tax for Foreign Operations Number of Semi-Annual Installments Equity tax for foreign operations assessment term Equity tax for foreign operations Assessment term Time period duration over which a equity tax assessment is established. Financial Instruments, Fair Value Measurements and Credit Risk Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Credit Facilities Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Common shares, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common shares, issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common shares, outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Exchangeable shares, issued Common Shares Exchangeable Shares Issued Common Shares, Exchangeable Shares, Issued Exchangeable shares, outstanding Common Shares Exchangeable Shares Outstanding Common Shares Exchangeable Shares Outstanding Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Other Accounts Receivable [Member] Other Accounts Receivable [Member] Other Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Crude oil inventories Energy Related Inventory, Crude Oil and Natural Gas Liquids Supplies Other Inventory, Supplies, Gross Trade Accounts Payable, Trade Royalties Accrued Royalties VAT and withholding tax Accrued Value Added Tax and Payroll Taxes Accrued Value Added Tax and Payroll Taxes Employee compensation Employee-related Liabilities Other Other Accrued Liabilities Total Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized tax benefit relating to loss or income from continuing operations, beginning of year Increases for positions relating to prior year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decreases for positions relating to prior year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized tax benefit relating to loss or income from continuing operations, end of year Reportable Geographic Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Long-lived Assets by Geographical Area Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Assumptions used to estimate the fair value of stock option awards Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Stock options outstanding Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Amounts recognized for stock-based compensation Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block] Weighted average shares outstanding Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Oil gas Gas property, plant and equipment [Axis] Oil gas Gas property, plant and equipment [Axis] Description of acquisitions of new oil and gas properities. Oil gas Gas property, plant and equipment [Domain] Oil gas Gas property, plant and equipment [Domain] Description of acquisitions of new oil and gas properities. Block-Brazil [Member] Block-Brazil [Member] Block-Brazil [Member] Participating interest percentage oil and gas property, remaining percentage Participating Interest Percentage Oil And Gas Property, Remaining Percentage Participating Interest Percentage Oil And GasProperty, Remaining Percentage Number of blocks Number of Blocks Number of Blocks Number of producing blocks Number of Producing Blocks number of producing blocks in acquired property Number of producing wells Number of Producing Wells Number of Producing Wells Cash paid for acquisition Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Purchase price adjustment for share of interim costs before regulatory approval Business Combination, Purchase Price Adjustment for Share of Interim Costs Business Combination, Purchase Price Adjustment for Share of Interim Costs Additional contingent consideration, maximum Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High Fair value of contingent consideration payable Business Combinations, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High, Fair Value Business Combinations, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High, Fair Value Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities, by Geographic Area [Table] Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities, by Geographic Area [Table] Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities, by Geographic Area [Line Items] Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities, by Geographic Area [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of year Asset Retirement Obligation Settlements Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Liability incurred Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Liabilities associated with the Argentina business unit sold Asset Retirement Obligations, Liabilities Sold Through Divestiture Asset Retirement Obligations, Liabilities Sold Through Divestiture Foreign exchange Asset Retirement Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Accretion Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Revisions in estimated liability Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Balance, end of year Asset retirement obligation - current Asset Retirement Obligation, Current Asset retirement obligation - long-term Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Cash settlement of asset retirement obligation Increase (Decrease) Asset Retirement Obligations, Settlements Asset Retirement Obligations, Settlements Fair value of legally restricted assets Asset Retirement Obligation, Legally Restricted Assets, Fair Value Basis of consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Discontinued operations Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Allowance for doubtful accounts Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign currency derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Oil and gas properties Oil and Gas Properties Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset retirement obligation Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other capital assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation, Option, Warrants and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option, Warrants and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign currency translations Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Net income per share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] REVENUE AND OTHER INCOME Revenues [Abstract] Oil and natural gas sales Oil and Gas Sales Revenue Interest income Interest Income, Operating Total revenue and other income Total revenue and other income Aggregate revenue and interest income recognized during the period (derived from goods sold, services rendered, insurance premiums, or other activities that constitute an entity's earning process). EXPENSES Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Operating Operating Costs and Expenses Depletion, depreciation, accretion and impairment Results of Operations, Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, and Valuation Provisions General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Financial instruments loss Other loss Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Other gain Foreign exchange (gain) loss Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Total expenses Costs and Expenses (LOSS) INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Loss) Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent NET INCOME (LOSS) AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent RETAINED EARNINGS, BEGINNING OF YEAR Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) RETAINED EARNINGS, END OF YEAR BASIC Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share LOSS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS, NET OF INCOME TAXES (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share NET INCOME (LOSS) (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic DILUTED Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share LOSS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS, NET OF INCOME TAXES (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share NET INCOME (LOSS) (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING - BASIC WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING - DILUTED Schedule of Accounts Receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Stock Options [Member] Expected dividend rate for fair value assumption Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected volatility rate for fair value assumption, minimum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum Expected volatility rate for fair value assumption, maximum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum Weighted average volatility fair value assumption Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate Risk free interest rate for fair value assumption, minimum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Risk free interest rate for fair value assumption, maximum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Expected term for fair value assumption Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Gran Tierra Exchangeco Inc [Member] Gran Tierra Exchangeco Inc [Member] Gran Tierra Exchangeco Inc [Member] Gran Tierra Goldstrike Inc [Member] Gran Tierra Goldstrike Inc [Member] Gran Tierra Goldstrike Inc Member Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Warrant [Member] Warrant [Member] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] General and Administrative Expense [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Common Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Common Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Authorized share capital (in shares) Authorized share capital The maximum number of shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Special voting stock-authorized (in shares) Special voting stock - Authorized The maximum number of Special voting stock permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Special voting stock-par value (in dollars per share) Special voting stock - par value Face amount or stated value per share of Special voting stock; generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Exchangeable shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Other Shares, Outstanding Stock issued during period upon exercise of stock options (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Cash used to settle awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Flow Effect, Cash Used to Settle Awards Exchange shares issued during period Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Expirations Votes per common stock Number of votes per common stock Represents the number of votes each shareholder is entitled to per share. Common voting shares per exchangeable share (in shares) Number of common voting shares per exchangeable share Represents the number of common voting shares for each exchangeable share. Number of shares available for issuance under 2007 Equity Incentive Plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Option term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Option term after leaving service of company Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period After Leaving Service of Company Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period After Leaving Service of Company Stock option exercises in period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Cash received from exercise of stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Weighted average contractual term of of outstanding stock options Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted average contractual term of exercisable options Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value $/Option, Granted in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted average grant date fair value for options vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Stock Options [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Unvested stock options recognition period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Warrants [Abstract] Warrants [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Fair value of warrants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Intrinsic value of options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Closing share price ($/share) Closing Share Price Closing Share Price Intrinsic value of options exercisable at period end Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Intrinsic value of options exercised during period at period end Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Intrinsic value of options outstanding, vested and expected to vest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Weighted average remaining contractual term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Warrant outstanding (shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding Number of securities purchasable by warrants (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights Warrant exercise price (dollars per share) Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Warrants expiration date range start Warrants expiration Date Range Start Warrants expiration Date Range Start Warrants expiration date range end Warrants expiration Date Range End Warrants expiration Date Range End Common shares issued-exercise of warrants (in shares) Common shares issued - exercise of warrants The number of common stock shares issued upon the exercise of warrants. Warrants exercised (in shares) Warrants exercised, shares The number of warrants exercised. Common shares issued-exercise of warrants, cashless exercise (in shares) Common shares issued-exercise of warrants, cashless exercise Common shares issued-exercise of warrants, cashless exercise Common shares issued-exercise of warrants, shares withheld for cashless exchange (in shares) Common shares issued-exercise of warrants, shares withheld for cashless exchange Common shares issued-exercise of warrants, shares withheld for cashless exchange Warrants exercised, cashless exchange (in shares) Warrants exercised, cashless exchange Warrants exercised, cashless exchange Warrant expired unexercised (in shares) Warrant expired unexercised Warrant expired unexercised Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Options excluded from the diluted income per share calculation Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Contractual Obligations Future Lease Payments Schedule of Contractual Obligations Future Lease Payments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of future minimum contractual obligations as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented. Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Marketable securities Marketable Securities Inventory Inventory, Net Taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Prepaids Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Total Current Assets Assets, Current Oil and Gas Properties (using the full cost method of accounting) Oil and Gas Properties (using the full cost method of accounting) [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Unproved Total Oil and Gas Properties Oil and Gas Property, Full Cost Method, Net Other capital assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Net Total Property, Plant and Equipment Other Long-Term Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Noncurrent Other long-term assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Goodwill Total Other Long-Term Assets Total Other Long Term Assets Total Other Long Term Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Foreign currency derivative Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Liabilities Taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Asset retirement obligation Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-Term Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Asset retirement obligation Other long-term liabilities Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Total Long-Term Liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Shareholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common Stock (276,072,351 and 272,327,810 shares of Common Stock and 10,119,745 and 10,882,440 exchangeable shares, par value $0.001 per share, issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively) Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Total Shareholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Costs Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities [Table] Costs Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities [Table] Costs Incurred, Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities [Line Items] Costs Incurred, Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities [Line Items] Acquisition costs Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Oil and Gas Properties Exploration costs Costs Incurred, Exploration Costs Total oil and natural gas properties not subject to depletion Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization, Period Cost Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Ecopetrol Dispute [Member] Ecopetrol Dispute [Member] Ecopetrol Dispute [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Trading Securities Trading Securities Foreign currency derivative liability Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure Contingent consideration liability (Note 4) Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Oil and Gas property, plant and equipment [Axis] Oil and Gas property, plant and equipment [Axis] Description of acquisitions of new oil and gas properities. Oil and Gas property, plant and equipment [Domain] Oil and Gas property, plant and equipment [Domain] Description of acquisitions of new oil and gas properities. Bretana Sur 95-3-4-1X Appraisal Well [Member] Bretana Sur 95-3-4-1X Appraisal Well [Member] Bretana Sur 95-3-4-1X Appraisal Well [Member] Mecaya Block [Member] Mecaya Block [Member] Mecaya Block [Member] Block-Peru [Member] Block-Peru [Member] Block-Peru [Member] Block-BM-CAL-7 [Member] Block-BM-CAL-7 [Member] Oil and gas property Block-BM-CAL-10 [Member] Block-BM-CAL-10 [Member] Oil and gas property Property , Plant and Equipment Cost Center categories [Axis] Property , Plant and Equipment Cost Center categories [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment , by Country Property , Plant and Equipment Cost Center categories [Domain] Property , Plant and Equipment Cost Center categories [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment by Cost Center Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciation and depletion Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Proceeds from sale of a blow-out preventer Proceeds from Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Working interest sold, percentage Oil and Gas Properties, Working Interest Sold, Percentage Oil and Gas Properties, Working Interest Sold, Percentage Proceeds from termination of farm-in agreement Proceeds from Oil and Gas Property from Termination of Farm-in Agreement Proceeds from Oil and Gas Property from Termination of Farm-in Agreement Number of blocks successfully bid Number of Blocks Successfully Bid Number of Blocks Successfully Bid Payments for signature bonus Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property, Signature Bonus Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property, Signature Bonus Drilling costs for previously drilled oil exploration well Capitalized Exploratory Well, Farming Agreement Capitalized Exploratory Well, Farming Agreement Purchase consideration for oil and gas regulatory approval Purchase Price For Participation In Oil And Gas Property Total consideration for partipation in Oil and Gas property not intended for resale Farm out interest assigned (in hundredths) Participating Interest Percentage Oil And Gas Property Purchased participation interest in oil and gas property Number of farmout agreements Number of Farmout Agreements Number of Farmout Agreements Loss on contract termination Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Impairment loss Remaining drilling costs Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Impairment of oil and gas properties Unproved assets by cost center Cost Center Unproved Oil And Gas Property Full Cost Method Oil and Gas properties at a specific cost center with unproved reserves under the full cost method Costs transferred to depletable base within 5 years Oil and Gas Property, Costs Transferred to Depletable Base within Five Years, Percentage Oil and Gas Property, Costs Transferred to Depletable Base within Five Years, Percentage Transfer of costs to depletable base, period Oil and Gas Property, Transfer of Costs to Depletable Base, Time Period Oil and Gas Property, Transfer of Costs to Depletable Base, Time Period Revenue and other income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue (Loss) from operations of discontinued operations before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, before Income Tax Income tax expense Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period Loss from operations of discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax Loss on sale before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax expense Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Other Income (Loss) from Disposition of Discontinued Operation Loss on sale Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Description of Revenue from External Customers Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract] DD&A expenses DD&A - per unit of production Amortization And Impairment Expense Per Physical Units Of Production Amortization and impairment computed on the basis of physical units, with oil and gas converted to a common unit of measure on the basis of their approximate relative energy contents. Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Segment capital expenditures Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] Income tax (recovery) expense from continuing operations expected Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Foreign currency translation adjustments Income Tax Reconciliation Foreign Currency Translation Tax Benefit Expense The portion of the difference, between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations, that is attributable to foreign exchange translation differences. Impact of foreign taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Other local taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Stock-based compensation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Amount Increase in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Non-deductible third party royalty in Colombia Income tax reconciliation non-deductible third party royalty The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to third party royalty payments. Other permanent differences (1) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Total income tax expense from continuing operations Current income tax expense from continuing operations Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] United States Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Current income tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax expense (recovery) from continuing operations Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Number of Outstanding Share Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Balance, Beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Exercised Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Forfeitures Balance, End of period (in shares) Number of Outstanding Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Balance, Beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Balance, End of period (in shares) Exercisable, at end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Vested, or expected to vest, at end of period through the life of the options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Option Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Option, beginning balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Option, Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Options Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Options, Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Options, Expired (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Option, ending balance (in dollars per share) Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Option, Exercisable, at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price $/Option, Vested, or expected to vest, at end of period through the life of the options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Financial disclosures of discontinued operations Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Tax benefit of operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax basis in excess of book basis Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Basis in Excess of Book Basis The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax reductions attributable to a difference between the tax basis and the generally accepted accounting principles basis of a company's investments which will decrease future taxable income when such basis difference reverses. Foreign tax credits and other accruals Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Tax benefit of capital loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred tax assets, net Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax assets - current Deferred tax assets - long-term Deferred tax liabilities - current Deferred tax liabilities - long-term Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Net Deferred Tax Liabilities Deferred Tax Assets, Net Segment and Geographic Reporting Concentration Risk [Abstract] Segment and Geographic Reporting Concentration Risk [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Ecopetrol [Member] Ecopetrol [Member] Ecopetrol [Member] Other Customer Number Two [Member] Other Customer Number Two [Member] Other Customer Number Two [Member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Proceeds from oil and gas properties Cash paid Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Plus Purchase Price Adjustment Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Plus Purchase Price Adjustment Number of significant customers Entity-Wide Revenue, Number of Major Customers Entity-Wide Revenue, Number of Major Customers Number of other major customers Entity-Wide Revenue, Number of Major Customers, Other Entity-Wide Revenue, Number of Major Customers, Other Sales to Ecopetrol, as a percentage of total revenue (in hundredths) Concentration Risk Specific Customer Percentage of Sales Sales to a single specific customer as a percentage of total revenue. Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income (loss) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Depletion, depreciation, accretion and impairment Deferred tax expense (recovery) Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Non-cash stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Unrealized loss on financial instruments Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Unrealized Other loss Other Nonrecurring Expense Other gain Other Nonrecurring Income Equity tax Foreign Equity tax Foreign tax payable based on balance sheet equity for tax purposes Net change in assets and liabilities from operating activities of continuing operations Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable and other long-term assets Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable and Other Long-term Assets Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable and Other Long-term Assets Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaids Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense Accounts payable and accrued and other long-term liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities Taxes receivable and payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable, Net of Income Taxes Receivable Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] (Increase) decrease in restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Additions to property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Cash paid for acquisition Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Proceeds from sale of Argentina business unit, net of cash sold and transaction costs Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations Payments for Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Payments for Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from issuance of shares of Common Stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents, end of year Supplemental cash flow disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Non-cash investing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Net liabilities related to property, plant and equipment, end of year Non-cash working capital and net assets and liabilities related to capital additions Period end non-cash working capital balances and net assets and liabilities related to property, plant and equipment. Acquisition of marketable securities as proceeds from sale of Argentina business unit Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Segment [Member] Sales Revenue, Segment [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Concentration risk, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Foreign exchange losses, Colombian peso to U.S. dollar Foreign Currency Transaction Gain Loss Before Tax Peso to US Dollar The aggregate foreign currency transaction gain (loss) (both realized and unrealized) if there were a one Columbian Peso change against the U.S. Dollar. Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Pending Litigation Escopetrol [Member] Pending Litigation [Member] Pending Litigation Moqueta Discovery [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Pending Litigation Moqueta Discovery, Transportation and Related Costs [Member] Pending Litigation Moqueta Discovery, Transportation and Related Costs [Member] Pending Litigation Moqueta Discovery, Transportation and Related Costs [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Notes payable provided as security for letter of credit Debt Instrument, Collateral, Promissory Notes Provided as Collateral for Letters of Credit Debt Instrument, Collateral, Promissory Notes Provided as Collateral for Letters of Credit Loss Contingency, Loss in Period, Barrels of Oil Loss Contingency, Loss in Period, Barrels of Oil Loss Contingency, Loss in Period, Barrels of Oil Value of damages sought for loss contingency Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Threshold by which additional royalty due (barrels) Threshold by which additional royalty due Represents the threshold amount of millions of barrels by which an additional royalty is to be paid. Total cumulative production of oil field (barrels) Total cumulative production of oil field (in barrels millions) The number of barrel of oil equivalents (BOE) which is a measurement used by oil and gas companies as a way of combining oil and natural gas reserves and production into a single measurement. Natural gas volumes are converted to BOE based on the energy content of 6,000 cubic feet of gas to one barrel of oil. Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Cash Total Consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Proved Business Combinations, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Proven Properties Business Combinations, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Proven Properties Unproved Business Combinations, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Unproven Properties Business Combinations, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Unproven Properties Asset retirement obligation Business Combinations, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligations Business Combinations, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Asset Retirement Obligations Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Share Capital [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Warrants [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of year Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Issue of shares of Common Stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Exercise of warrants Warrants, Exercised, Value Warrants, Exercised, Value Expiry of warrants APIC Warrants, Expired Decrease in additional paid in capital due to warrants expired during the period Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Balance, end of year Description of Business [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Description of Business Nature of Operations [Text Block]