Colombia : Safety by City
Colombia sits at the top of South America, sharing borders with Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, and Panama.
It’s the only country on the continent with both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, meaning you can go from tropical beaches to the Andes mountains or the Amazon rainforest in a single trip.
Colombia’s history is layered.
It was home to advanced indigenous civilizations before the Spanish arrived in 1499, bringing colonization, gold mining, and slavery.
After gaining independence in 1819, the country experienced a long period of political struggles, civil conflicts, and power shifts.
The drug trade took off in the 1970s and 80s when cartels—most famously Medellín (Pablo Escobar) and Cali—turned Colombia into the cocaine capital of the world. Drug money corrupted politics and escalated violence.
The government cracked down in the 90s and 2000s, taking down some major cartels and opening the path to Colombian tourism, which now breaks records just about every year.
Fast-forward to today: Colombia is a different place.
Cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cartagena are lively, modern, and safe for travelers.
The country is known for its coffee culture, salsa music, stunning nature, and welcoming vibe.
However, there are still plenty of risks and safety guidance you need before planning a trip.
Warnings & Dangers in Colombia
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk, even with a record-breaking surge in Colombian tourism over the past few years. Risks vary by location. Urban areas like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena have improved security, while rural regions may still have crime and armed group activity.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
I would strongly recommend reading the travel and transportation sections of your country's embassy became this is a high risk. For example, U.S. officials don't allow their workers to use street taxis, motorcycles, or buses because of high safety risks. Even renting a car isn't helpful when you find out the roads are in bad condition and have crime risks, too. The best options are to book private rides or rideshares through your hotel or use verified tour guide services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
This risk is high in many areas of Colombia. Tourist-heavy regions, public transport, and markets attract skilled pickpockets, especially in Bogotá’s La Candelaria, Cartagena’s historic district, and Medellín’s metro. Crowds and distractions increase the risk.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Treat this as a medium risk. Colombia faces earthquakes, floods, and occasional landslides, especially in Andean and coastal regions. The Pacific coast is at risk of tsunamis. The country also experiences El Niño and La Niña weather cycles, which can cause droughts or heavy rain.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Muggings occur, especially after dark or in less-policed areas. "No dar papaya" (don’t make yourself an easy target) is key—avoid wearing flashy items, walking alone at night, or withdrawing large amounts of cash in public. It's also worth noting that not all robberies here are guns or knives. Criminals are known to put drugs into the food or drinks of unsuspecting tourists and then wait for them to pass out to rob them.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk, with some locations on the high-risk list. Check your country's advisory to see the specific regions to avoid. Even in cities considered "safer," avoid public demonstrations and crowded areas.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams are most likely to target people who are (or appear to be) wealthy. As a medium risk, pay special attention to what you pack and try to blend in as much as possible. Leave valuables at home and don't flaunt power, influence, or money while in public places of Colombia.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Solo female travelers face harassment and catcalling, especially in nightlife areas. While most incidents are verbal, drinks should always be watched to avoid spiking (burundanga drugging). Treat this as a medium risk and never go out at night alone. Don't go to private places with strangers.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water is safe in Bogotá, Medellín, and major cities, but rural areas and coastal regions (Cartagena, Santa Marta) may have contamination issues. In lower-risk areas, a portable water filter or bottled water is a precaution. Avoid drinking tap water in the Amazon or Pacific regions, where sanitation varies.
Safest Places to Visit in Colombia
Colombia is a two-sided coin.
There’s a legacy of violence, cartels, and drug rings, but at the same time, there’s a vibrant and growing tourist economy.
Medellín, once the most dangerous city in the world, is now a tourist hot spot.
To find the safest places to visit in particular cities, use the country’s tourism website in Colombia.travel.
The “Practical Information” header includes some great things to know before you plan a trip and during your time there.
Whether you’re interested in colonial cities, scenic landscapes, or cultural hotspots, Colombia’s diversity might surprise you.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena’s Walled City is one of Colombia’s safest and most visited areas.
Walk along the city’s fortress walls, explore Castillo San Felipe, and visit plazas filled with colonial charm.
Nearby, Bocagrande offers beaches and modern shopping.
Once a high-crime neighborhood, Medellín’s Comuna 13 is now a must-visit for its street art, outdoor escalators, and guided tours that explain its transformation.
The Metrocable offers panoramic views of the city.
A short drive from Medellín, Guatapé is famous for its brightly painted buildings and the towering El Peñol Rock.
Climb the 740 steps to the summit for stunning views of lakes and islands.
The historic heart of Colombia’s capital, La Candelaria, is home to key attractions like the Gold Museum, Botero Museum, and Plaza Bolívar. For a great view, take the cable car up to Monserrate.
Salento is a small, colorful town in Colombia’s coffee-growing region, known for coffee farm tours and artisan shops.
From here, visitors can hike in Valle de Cocora, home to towering wax palms and scenic trails.
San Andrés Island is known for clear turquoise waters, snorkeling, and duty-free shopping.
You’ll need to take a plane or boat to get there as it’s nearly 500 miles off the coast of Barranquilla, closer to Nicaragua than Colombia.
A well-preserved colonial town with the largest cobblestone plaza in Colombia, Villa de Leyva offers a quiet escape just a few hours from Bogotá.
It’s a great place for exploring historical sites, hiking, and visiting the nearby Pozos Azules (blue water lagoons).
Many say that Barichara is the most beautiful town in Colombia, with cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings.
The city itself is a quiet retreat, while nearby adventure activities in San Gil, like paragliding and whitewater rafting, attract a more adventurous crowd.
Santa Marta is a relaxed coastal city with easy access to Tayrona National Park, one of Colombia’s best outdoor destinations.
The park offers hiking through tropical forests, secluded beaches, and wildlife spotting.
Places to Avoid in Colombia
While not all countries’ governments agree about the general advisory for visiting Colombia, they do agree on the places to avoid.
Canada’s advisory lists are generally the most robust, so here’s the list provided as of early 2025.
- Arauca
- Caquetá, excluding the city of Florencia
- Cauca, excluding the city of Popayan
- Cesar, in the municipalities of González and Río de Oro
- Chocó, excluding the towns of:
- Bahía Solano
- Capurganá
- Nuquí
- within 50 km of the border with Venezuela, excluding the city of Cúcuta
- within 100 km of the border with Panama
- within 50 km of the border with Ecuador, excluding the border crossing at Ipiales
- Norte de Santander, excluding the city of Cúcuta
- The Port of Tumaco and the city of Buenaventura
The U.S. Government, along with its allies, also recommends avoiding anywhere along the Colombia-Venezuela border.
You can also learn more about the risks on the other side of the border in our article “How Safe Is Venezuela for Travel?”
It’s also worth noting that the U.S. government prohibits its employees or contractors from driving between cities, hailing taxis on the street, riding public buses, and riding motorcycles due to violent crime concerns.
One more quick tip for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Colombia is turning into one of the most inclusive countries in South America.
The tourism website has an LGB section to help find ideal places to visit and places to avoid.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Colombia
- Colombia’s main law enforcement agencies are the National Police (Policía Nacional, dial 123) and Tourist Police (Policía de Turismo), often found in major tourist areas. In rural or remote areas, the Military (Ejército Nacional) may handle security. If you need assistance, ask for a CAI (police assistance kiosk), which is common in cities.
- Register for emergency alerts through UNGRD (Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres) and SISMATE, Colombia’s nationwide text alert system for natural disasters and security threats. Travelers can also follow @UNGRD and @PoliciaColombia on social media for real-time updates. U.S. citizens should enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for embassy alerts.
- Entering Venezuela from Colombia, even briefly, can lead to detention, questioning, or refusal of reentry by both countries’ authorities. Some travelers have been accused of espionage or illegal entry. The border zones (e.g., Cúcuta, Arauca, and La Guajira) are unstable, with frequent crime and armed group activity.
- While yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entering some nature reserves and national parks (e.g., Tayrona, Amazon region), proof may also be required when flying from Colombia to other countries. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prevention (in jungle areas) are highly recommended. Carry a yellow fever certificate if visiting rural or tropical regions.
- Street taxis can be involved in “millionaire rides” (paseo millonario), where drivers or accomplices force passengers to withdraw money at ATMs. If taking an official taxi, request one through a hotel or taxi booth.
- Tourist-focused ayahuasca or yagé ceremonies often involve unregulated substances, including DMT, a potent psychedelic illegal in many countries. Unqualified “shamans” have led to cases of overdoses, assaults, robberies, and deaths. Always verify the legitimacy of any retreat, avoid solo participation, and go with a trusted guide.
- Traveling to areas marked “Do Not Travel” by your country’s government (such as Arauca, Cauca, and the Venezuelan border region) means you will not receive embassy help if you’re kidnapped, detained, or injured. Local authorities may also refuse to assist foreigners in high-risk zones.
- Certain medications, including ADHD drugs, strong painkillers, and some anti-anxiety medications, can only get through Customs with proof of prescription and if the medication is in the original container. To bring them legally, carry a prescription in Spanish and declare them at customs. Exporting medication without proper documentation can result in fines or detention. Always check Colombia’s drug regulations before traveling.
- Bogotá (8,660 ft/2,640 m) and El Cocuy National Park (over 13,000 ft/4,000 m) can cause altitude sickness for travelers coming from sea level. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Acclimate gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Carry acetazolamide if prone to altitude sickness.
- Colombian cities, especially Bogotá and Medellín, experience poor air quality due to pollution and weather patterns trapping smog. Use the IQAir app or local IDEAM reports to check pollution levels. On high-smog days, limit outdoor activity, wear an N95 mask if sensitive to pollution, and avoid heavy exercise.
So... How Safe Is Colombia Really?
When we talk about the safety of countries, we start by looking at travel advisories from countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
Most countries have a rating scale of one to four, with one being the lowest and four being the highest, with a risk of “Do Not Travel.”
For Columbia:
- The United States lists it at Level 3: Reconsider Travel with certain regions (noted earlier) as Level 4: Do Not Travel.
- Canada lists it as Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution with specific areas under Level 4: Avoid All Travel.
- The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has a blanket statement of “FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of Colombia.”
- Australia lists Colombia as Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution, with a list of places to “Reconsider Travel” and the border area being “Do Not Travel.”
At one point in 2023, there were reports that an average of one tourist was being killed a week in Medellín.
That’s the kind of stuff to fact-check because, while it’s true, it also doesn’t give the full picture that some of those victims were involved in illegal and dangerous activities, like prostitution or drugs.
While random acts of violence can and do happen, the risk is so much higher for those who come to Colombia looking for this type of dangerous behavior.
You have to be careful in Colombia, day and night.
Don’t trust anyone you don’t know, and never let someone get the upper hand on your safety, privacy, or mental awareness.
In 2024, Colombia’s tourism broke records with 6.7 million visitors.
While that’s encouraging for those concerned about the country’s dangerous reputation, we hope this guidebook has helped point you in the right direction for enjoying the amenities while avoiding the risks.
How Does Colombia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Colombia | 42 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Qatar | 84 |
| United Arab Emirates | 79 |
| Montenegro | 70 |
| Denmark | 94 |
| Poland | 84 |
| Lithuania | 79 |
| Argentina | 70 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe can stay visa-free for 90 days, extendable to 180 days per year. A digital nomad visa is available. Within 72 hours of boarding a flight bound for the country, fill out the Migración Colombia’s Online Check Mig Form. Always check visa rules before arrival, as regulations can change.
Currency
Colombia uses the Colombian peso (COP). ATMs are widely available but try to find ones that aren't on the street or in large, crowded areas. Exchange money at official casas de cambio for the best rates and safety.
Weather
Colombia’s climate varies by region. Bogotá is cool year-round, Medellín has spring-like weather, and Cartagena is hot and humid. The Amazon is rainy and tropical. The country has two seasons: dry (December–March, July–August) and rainy (April–June, September–November). Weather changes with altitude, so pack accordingly for different conditions.
Airports
El Dorado International (Bogotá) is the main hub, with other major airports in Medellín, Cartagena, and Cali.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for Colombia, covering medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations. Some policies include adventure sports and high-altitude coverage. Private healthcare is excellent but expensive without insurance.
Colombia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 19 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 19 |
| Low °C | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
| High °F | 66 | 66 | 66 | 66 | 64 | 64 | 64 | 64 | 64 | 64 | 64 | 66 |
| Low °F | 43 | 45 | 46 | 48 | 48 | 48 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 45 |
Colombia - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Barranquilla | 47 |
| Bogotá | 46 |
| Bucaramanga | 32 |
| Cali | 52 |
| Cartagena | 82 |
| Cucuta | 32 |
| Leticia | 70 |
| Manizales | 47 |
| Medellin | 52 |
| Popayan | 31 |
| Santa Marta | 33 |
A different kind of country
Last year I didn’t think I would ever be going to Colombia because I thought it was very unsafe. Then a friend told me about his experiences there and told me he would go again so I went. It’s not as unsafe as some sites make it out to be. It’s not very safe but there are many nice things that make it worthwhile.
Went with a group of friends and had fun
Went in without many expectations, with a group of friends. We had fun, visited many cities like Bogota and Medellin and never felt unwanted and unsafe. I know bad things still happen in this country but I only had fun while I was here.
Terrible
Colombia al igual que Vnzla son los países mas inseguros de AL. No recomendaría jamás ir a visitar Colombia que no tiene nada de bueno. El narcotráfico existe, la delincuencia existe, los guerrilleros existen, y los robos en casi todas las ciudades es al por mayor.
Como que este artículo lo escribió una colombiano
sound like you’re just butt hurt by you’re own personal experience. Shameful actually. Anyways, Colombia is a great place to visit. Just use common sense. e.g. You wouldn’t go walking around south central at night alone, so don’t expect to do such things in the barrios of Colombia.
Deception
Exactly. I was a doló female traveler thst went to Cartagena this June and went everywhere by myself and I never felt in danger.
Cartegena is very safe for travellers
My husband, 16 year old daughter and I spent 3 weeks in and around Cartegena in December 2019 to January 2020. We stayed in different parts of the city and really enjoyed ourselves. Just like anywhere else in the world, be mindful and aware or your surroundings. It is helpful to speak some basic Spanish, although many speak English at Hotels and restaurants. Honestly,I felt safer in Cartagena than I do in Mexico. We loved it and would return.
Colombia is Magic
we went twice, first time only Cartagena and surroundings in January 2018. We fell totally in love with this country!! Yes there are “shady” parts and you have to take basic traveller precautions like anywhere in the world….
Second time we explored everything around and between Cali, Bogota, Medellin and all of Coffee triangle by motorbike. Finished off in Santa Martha and in a beach hut further up the coast of Tayrona National park. Only had fantastic experiences and friendly locals and stunning scenery all around!! The Colombians say ” don’t give them Papaya” which basically means, don’t show off and flaunt your valuables. So if you go to submerge yourself in their beautifull country and way of life, you’ll have the time of your life!! If you are more of a show off looking for others to recognise and serve you for your dollars, pick a more superficial destination.
Maybe it is just me but I wouldn’t consider this place “mostly safe”. I had gone 4 different times over the years. Twice I have been robbed on two separate trips. My last being the final straw when everything was taken from me. Maybe it depends on who you go with, what you look like, and how much income you have? I am not sure.
Nice City for rest of my life with my beuat
I do have a good experience of most of Colombia. Since 2016 i have lived together with a charming colombiana. She is now my wife.
I just went to Guayquil to arrange things and will be happy to return to my home city Medellin.
It is never that unsafe than Guayquil where the murders have doubled from 2021..
I am now oficially a medellano and plan to get nationality of Colombia.
Most areas are safe and Colombia is worth a trip
Colombia is a country filled with adventure and also history and culture. You can find just about anything here from tropical beaches and parties (with salsa and cumbia) to colonial provincial retreats and experimental theater (which you must see).
All my experiences are positive
My personal experiences with Colombia tell me that it’s generally a relatively safe country. It’s not the safest by any means and you can get robbed even in daytime if you’re in the wrong place. It’s a matter of knowing where to go and where not to I guess. It always helps if you have a couple of friends or family and aren’t alone as safety in numbers and all of that. I never went alone so that could be a different experience entirely. I didn’t have anything stolen from me but a pickpocket tried to while we were in a more crowded area. I was paying attention and managed to protect my phone from being stolen. So these things can happen (it was daytime) but this happens regularly in the US and in many, many countries.
Cartagena should be your first stop (or one of the first). Every time I went on a walk in this city, I felt like I was truly back in time. It felt amazing to me. I can’t explain it in words, you have to go yourself and experience the labyrinth-like streets. Medellin should be your next visiting spot. It was once known as a very dangerous city but things are much better today. It’s a must visit for it’s eco parks, amazing libraries and many art pieces (sculptures, etc) plus fine eateries.
When I visited the Tayrona National Natural Park I wasn’t expecting to be blown away by it’s beauty but I was. Imagine palm-shaded beaches with clear waters close to imposing mountains. Snorkeling is great here. Since many people visit these areas, it’s better to come in the low season which goes from November to February.
A great place to visit is Providencia Island because it has one of the biggest marine biodiversity you can see. Believe me when I say this is so worth the trip.
Never had a problem
I have been to Colombia 4 or 5 times and never had a problem. I was staying in a hotel in Bogota and the manager told me, ‘When you go out of the hotel you walk right and you will be fine, if you go left and go to these streets (pointing on the map) you will be mugged.’ I went out of the hotel and turned right.
Once I was at the festival in Barranquilla, some foreigners were getting out of hand and didn’t get punched. Believe me, in any western country they would have been filled in and they would have deserved it.
I walked the streets day and night and never felt threatened.
I went there. Getting a tourist visa is extremely difficult if you need one (of course easier than getting a tourist visa for Mexico, US or Schengen where it is litteraly impossible but it is still very hard to get a Colombian visa). However the people are very nice. I stayed for one month in different parts of the country and nothing bad happened. My Spanish and my English are far from perfect but I still got along and people very very kind and helpful. I want to visit again!
Just becareful of the taxi scams negotiate price before trip
I agree!
Don't know about Colombia but I want to visit
This article really looks up and down on different countries. Idc if they say this or that I WILL GO!!!!
im colombian and its generally safe if you know what your doing just dont go to any border areas, the jungle or poor areas and youll be fine
Medellin Safety
As a US citizen with property in Medellin, ( a house in Poblado) I feel safer in Medellin than in Miami. Couple of things. Lose the Mr T gold chains, the fake or real rolexes, there are many , many tourist places and things to do and see in the country.
Now, if you are after drugs, prostitutes and want to party the night away, be aware, be in a group.
The overwhelming majority of Colombians are very polite, helpful and enjoy talking with Americans and other foreigners, but there are places you should not go….same as in the US. Self explanatory!
Otherwise enjoy the beautiful country, the food is incredible, the weather is hard to beat ( City of Eternal Spring) along with the first class malls.