Is Colombia Safe for Tourists? My Honest Take from Years of Traveling Here

Hello! I’m the CEO of a Colombian travel company, and I’ve spent years exploring every corner of this beautiful country. One of the most common questions I get (especially from friends back home in the U.S.) is: “Is Colombia safe for tourists?” In this article, I’ll answer that from a first-person perspective – candidly and with nuance.

Colombia’s reputation has long been colored by its past, but the reality today is very different. I want to share my experiences traveling all over Colombia (including some off-the-beaten-path places) and give you an honest, expert guide to staying safe.

By the end, you’ll see why I believe that for the major tourist destinations – where 99% of visitors go – safety is not a major concern, as long as you travel smart. Let’s dive in!

Colombia’s Safety Reputation vs. Reality

Colombia’s image in popular culture still suffers from old news about cartels and conflict. Yes, decades ago, places like Medellín were infamous for violence. But that was over 25 years ago – Pablo Escobar is long gone. In recent years, Colombia has undergone a remarkable turnaround. Homicide rates have plummeted since the 1990s, and cities once known as war zones are now thriving travel hotspots. For instance, Medellín’s murder rate dropped from an astronomical 375 per 100,000 people in 1991 to a fraction of that today. In fact, Colombia’s national homicide rate hit a low of around 24 per 100,000 in 2016 – the lowest since 1974.

To put things in perspective, some major U.S. cities actually have crime stats on par with or worse than Colombia’s big cities. In 2024, Bogotá’s homicide rate was roughly 15 per 100,000 people, whereas Washington, D.C.’s was about 27 per 100,000 – nearly double Bogotá’s rate. Even my hometown of Dallas had almost 19 murders per 100,000 residents in 2023, which is higher than Bogotá that year. Surprised? I certainly was when I first learned this.

The takeaway: Colombia isn’t the Wild West some imagine. In many ways, walking around tourist districts in Cartagena or Medellín feels no more dangerous than visiting certain neighborhoods in New York or Los Angeles. Every large city has good and bad areas – Colombia is no different. That said, safety is all about context. Most of Colombia’s crime happens away from tourist zones or involves situations a typical visitor can easily avoid. For example, locals will tell you that if you don’t get mixed up in the drug trade or other illegal activity, your odds of encountering violent crime drop dramatically. As a traveler, you won’t be visiting sketchy barrios on the city outskirts at 2 AM, right? Stick to the well-trodden areas and normal activities, and you’ll likely feel as I do – that Colombia is a warm, welcoming place. Tourism is booming here, with nearly 6 million people visiting Colombia in 2023 alone. The vast majority of these travelers had an amazing, incident-free trip. Yes, Colombia is safe to visit, if you use common sense. Let’s talk about what that means in practical terms.

Crime in Colombia: What Tourists Need to Know

When it comes to crime affecting tourists, Colombia isn’t fundamentally different from other Latin American destinations – or big cities worldwide. The primary risks are petty crimes like theft and scams, rather than serious violence. Here are the key things I always brief our tour clients on:

• Petty Theft (Pickpocketing & Phone Snatchings): This is the number one issue in tourist areas. Keep a hand on your bags in crowded markets, and never leave your phone sitting on a café table. Opportunistic thieves on foot or even on motorcycles might grab an exposed smartphone or purse before you even realize it. In fact, cell phones are the most commonly stolen item in Colombia.

I learned the local saying “No des papaya” early on – literally “don’t give papaya,” meaning don’t make yourself an easy target. In practice, no dar papaya means don’t flash your wealth or valuables around.

I follow this rule religiously: I keep my nice watch and flashy jewelry at home, and I stay low-key with gadgets in public. Remember, many Colombians aren’t wealthy; that new iPhone can equal many months’ wages here. Flashing it not only appears arrogant – it’s also an open invitation to thieves.

Muggings and Robberies: Street robberies (sometimes with a knife or gun shown) do occur in urban areas, usually at night or in quieter spots. The vast majority of tourists won’t experience this, especially if you stick to busy, well-policed zones. In all my years in Colombia, I’ve never been violently mugged – though I stay vigilant and avoid walking alone down dark streets at 3 AM. If the worst happens, and you are confronted, the advice from locals and expats alike is never resist

Hand over your wallet or phone; it’s not worth your life. Sadly, many robbery-related homicides involve victims who tried to fight back

So be smart: comply, then walk away safely. Fortunately, such incidents are rare in touristy areas with a police presence. I feel as safe strolling in Bogotá’s Zona T as I do in downtown Miami, but I wouldn’t roam certain peripheral neighborhoods of either city late at night.

• Scams and Gringo Pricing: Tourist scams exist, but if you know about them, they’re easy to avoid. In Cartagena especially, some vendors have PhDs in parting you from your money. Classic tricks include: quoting ridiculously high prices (always ask the price first to avoid “gringo pricing”), giving you incorrect change or counterfeit bills (the “switching banknotes” taxi scam, and overly persistent street hustlers. On Cartagena’s beaches, for example, someone might offer a “free” massage or drink, only to demand an exorbitant fee after you’ve enjoyed it. Short-change scams are another one I’ve seen – a taxi driver will insist the 50,000 peso note you handed him was just 5,000, hoping you’re too flustered to notice.

My rule: carry small bills and pay attention when money changes hands. Also, agree on taxi fares upfront or, better, use apps (more on that soon). If something feels off, don’t be afraid to say no and walk away. Colombians are wonderful people overall – but like anywhere, a few folks will try to prey on wide-eyed visitors.

• “Honey Traps” and Nightlife Dangers: I hate to say it, but you must keep your wits about you during partying and anything involving sex. This is where some travelers let their guard down and get in trouble. There are cases of tourists (often men) being drugged and robbed after meeting a woman at a bar or via a dating app.

A common ploy involves the drug scopolamine (“Devil’s Breath”), which in small doses can knock you out or make you highly suggestible. Criminals can slip it into your drink or even blow it in your face – and next thing you know, you wake up in your hotel with your phone, cash, and memory gone. It sounds like an urban legend, but trust me, it’s real. Never accept drinks, cigarettes, or food from strangers – no matter how friendly they seem.

I personally know people this has happened to, and it’s terrifying. Likewise, if you use Tinder or go on a date with someone you just met, stick to public places and tell a friend where you are. The U.S. Embassy has warned that many Americans have been drugged, robbed, and even killed by criminals posing as dates.

The bottom line: a little street smarts goes a long way. Party and have fun, but keep your drink in sight, and think twice about going somewhere private with people you’ve just met.

• Avoiding Drugs and Illegal Activities: This might be obvious, but it’s worth stating plainly. Don’t try to buy cocaine or other drugs, and don’t engage in prostitution or other illegal stuff. These activities tend to connect you with the most unsavory elements of Colombian culture. Many of the foreigners who do get killed in Colombia were involved in drugs or sex tourism.

If you steer clear of the criminal underworld, it will steer clear of you. So just say “no, gracias” and walk away if anyone offers you drugs in a club (it can happen, especially in party areas of Medellín or Cartagena). It’s not worth the risk of being robbed or extorted – or winding up in a Colombian jail.

• Transportation Safety: Use a bit of caution with transport, especially at night. Hailing random taxis off the street is generally not recommended in big cities. While many cabbies are honest, there have been incidents of travelers getting robbed by shady taxi drivers or their accomplices. In fact, U.S. government personnel in Colombia are prohibited from hailing street taxis due to this risk.

The safer bet is to use apps like Uber, Cabify, or Beat (all work in Colombia), or have your hotel call a registered taxi. These services log the driver’s identity and your route, which deters crime. I rely on ride-hailing apps almost exclusively – they’re cheap and convenient. If you do take a street cab, avoid sharing rides with strangers and don’t fall for the old “grand tour” trick (some unscrupulous drivers might take you the long way around to run up the far). Within cities, robberies on public transit like Bogotá’s TransMilenio buses or the Medellín metro can happen too – so stay alert in packed buses/trains and keep your bag in front of you. Personally, I use public transit in daytime with no issues, but I guard my pockets like I would on the NYC subway during rush hour.

That might sound like a lot of warnings, but these are mostly minor annoyances or scams to be aware of – the kind of streetwise advice you’d follow in many places. In summary, Colombia is generally safe for travelers who use common sense. Don’t show off wealth, be mindful of your surroundings, and know the basic scams to avoid. If you do that, the odds of anything more than a stolen phone are extremely low.

I also encourage travelers to look at the data in context. For example, Bogotá does have a high number of thefts – over 58,000 personal robberies were reported in the first half of 2019 – but those are mostly pickpockets and phone snatchings in a city of 8 million people. And they tend to be concentrated in certain areas. In fact, interestingly, some of the wealthiest neighborhoods see the most petty theft, precisely because that’s where the money and smartphones are. Chapinero, an upscale district in Bogotá, had over 8,300 robberies per 100,000 people in 2018 – eight times higher than Medellín’s rate. Does that mean Chapinero is a no-go zone? Not at all – it’s actually one of my favorite areas, full of great restaurants and nightlife. It just means you shouldn’t get too complacent there either; thieves are opportunistic in rich areas. The same pattern holds in places like El Poblado (Medellín’s high-end enclave) or Cartagena’s busy tourist quarters.

So I tell visitors: enjoy those lovely neighborhoods, but stay alert and keep that phone tucked away, even in the fancy mall or the scenic plaza. Crime can happen anywhere, but if you limit the opportunity, you greatly limit the risk.

Safety in Major Tourist Destinations: City-by-City Guide

Colombia is a big country with diverse regions. Safety can vary from city to city, so let’s look at the top five most-visited Colombian cities and what you can expect in each. The good news is that all these popular destinations have well-established “safe zones” for tourists, with a strong police presence. I’ll highlight those areas and give specific tips, based on my travels and on local expertise.

Bogotá (Capital City)

Bogotá is a sprawling metropolis of ~8 million, and like any big capital it has both safe districts and sketchier parts. Most tourists stick to the north and center of Bogotá, which are relatively secure. Neighborhoods like Chapinero, Zona Rosa (Zona T), Parque 93, and Usaquén are the city’s upscale zones with hotels, dining and nightlife, and they benefit from a visible police presence.

I’ve walked around these areas by day and night and felt about as safe as I do in downtown Chicago. You’ll see locals and expats out at trendy restaurants and shopping centers – normal city life. The historic downtown, La Candelaria, is a must-visit for its colonial charm, museums, and street art. It’s generally fine during the day (just watch for pickpockets around busy plazas). After dark, however, Candelaria can empty out and get a bit dicey. Even as a confident traveler, I don’t wander around Candelaria late at night – I’ll grab a car back to my hotel in the north. At night, it’s best to use a taxi or Uber between neighborhoods instead of walking long distances. The city is huge, and some blocks can get isolated. Bogotá’s main crime issue is theft. You do need to be alert for phone snatchers and bag thieves, especially in crowded places or on the TransMilenio bus system. I recommend carrying only the essentials when you’re out exploring. Leave your passport and extra cards locked in the hotel safe; carry a photocopy of your ID instead. If you go out in the lively Zona T clubs, keep an eye out for drink spiking (it’s not common, but just use the same precautions you would clubbing anywhere).

Also avoid protests or demonstrations if you see them – Bogotá has frequent protests that can turn unruly. As a tourist, you don’t want to get caught up in that. If you see a large gathering or march, best to steer clear.

Finally, be aware that most of Bogotá’s violent crime occurs in the far southern and some western districts – places a tourist would have no reason to go. The city’s poorer barrios at the outskirts (like Ciudad Bolívar in the far south) have higher crime, but they’re a world away from the business and tourist centers in the north. So, stay within the usual circuits and you’re already avoiding 90% of the city’s safety issues. To give you confidence: I often host friends in Bogotá and we enjoy the nightlife, visit Monserrate mountain, and wander the Zona G foodie district. We exercise normal caution and none of them have ever had a problem beyond perhaps an overcharging taxi. Bogotá is safe to visit, as long as you treat it with the same caution you’d use in any big city you’re unfamiliar with. (Local tip: Use apps like Tappsi or Uber for taxis in Bogotá. The city is also at high altitude – 8,600 ft – so take it slow on day one!)

Medellín (The City of Eternal Spring)

Medellín might be Colombia’s biggest comeback story. Once notorious in the 80s and 90s, it’s now a modern, innovative city that regularly wows visitors. I’ve lived on and off in Medellín, and I can attest it feels very safe in the main areas. Tourists and expats typically stay in neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles, which are clean, trendy, and heavily patrolled by police and private security.

In these areas you’ll see digital nomads working in cafés, backpackers at hostels, and locals walking dogs – it’s a comfortable atmosphere. El Poblado in particular is an upscale bubble (boutiques, malls, bars) and generally one of the safest parts of the city. I walk around Poblado at night frequently (between restaurants and my hotel, say) and feel at ease, though of course I remain aware of who’s around me. Medellín’s city center (El Centro) is a mixed bag – bustling and interesting by day, but mostly avoided by tourists at night. I recommend visiting downtown sights (like Plaza Botero or Museo de Antioquia) during daylight hours, but for dinner and evenings stick to Poblado or Laureles. The Metro in Medellín is excellent and safe; just watch your pockets during rush hour. Crime-wise, Medellín’s biggest risk is again petty theft. Phone grabbers on motorcycles (called “motoladrones”) are known to operate in certain areas – including parts of Poblado. So even in a nice area, don’t stand too close to the curb staring at your phone obliviously. I usually step inside a shop or doorway if I need to check my phone on the street. Also, much like Bogotá, some comunas (districts) in the hills have gangs and should be avoided by outsiders. But you likely won’t go there unless you’re intentionally doing some kind of social tour, in which case go with a trusted guide. The popular Comuna 13 graffiti tour is safe these days because it’s become a controlled tourist attraction – I’ve done it twice and felt totally comfortable amid the crowds of visitors and friendly locals. It’s amazing to see how that neighborhood transformed. One important note for Medellín: the party scene in areas like Parque Lleras (Zona Rosa) can attract pickpockets and “prepagos” (prostitutes or women looking for foreigners). If you’re out late in the clubs, keep your awareness. There have been instances of foreigners being targeted after leaving clubs intoxicated. Also, be extra skeptical of overly friendly strangers in nightlife areas – now and then there’s a story of someone getting drugged with scopolamine by a person they brought back to their apartment. Enjoy the nightlife (Medellín’s salsa clubs and rooftop bars are great fun), but maybe don’t invite that random “friend” from the bar back home with you. 😉

Overall, Medellín is a very tourist-friendly city. It’s no coincidence thousands of foreigners now live there. The climate is perfect, people are kind, and the city has invested in safety and infrastructure. As long as you stay in the well-known areas and avoid looking for illicit “adventures,” you’re unlikely to encounter more than a pesky pickpocket. Honestly, I feel safer walking around Medellín’s nicer districts than I do in parts of some U.S. cities. The key is, again, common sense: keep valuables out of sight, use known transportation, and don’t go wandering into random barrios you know nothing about. Do that, and you’ll probably be singing Medellín’s praises as loudly as I do. (Local tip: The “MetroCable” gondolas that go up the mountains are safe during the day and give you incredible views of the city – a unique attraction not to miss. Just avoid riding them at night when the stations are quieter.)

Cartagena (Coastal Gem and Tourist Hotspot)

Cartagena is often the first stop for tourists in Colombia – a gorgeous colonial city on the Caribbean Sea, with colorful architecture and vibrant nightlife. It’s also probably the most touristy city in Colombia, which brings both benefits and some caveats. The historic Walled City (Centro and San Diego areas) and the nearby Bocagrande peninsula are where 99% of visitors stay, and these areas are well-policed and generally very safe to walk around.

I’ve wandered the cobbled streets of Cartagena’s Old Town at all hours (even as late as 2 AM after listening to live music) and never felt under threat. You’ll see police on almost every other corner in the Old Town, especially at night – they know it’s important to protect the tourism zone. The biggest risk in central Cartagena is having to say “No, gracias” 200 times a day to the street vendors and touts trying to sell you hats, sunglasses, artwork, tour packages, massages, you-name-it! It can be exhausting but they are mostly harmless. A polite but firm “No” (or “más tarde” – later – if you want to be nice) will do. Scams and overcharging are a bit more aggressive here, unfortunately. A few specific things to watch for in Cartagena:

• Beach scams: If you go to Playa de Bocagrande or take a day trip to the Rosario Islands, be ready for some hustling. Vendors might approach offering you a beer, oysters, or a beach massage and imply it’s free or included – it’s not. They will expect payment, often at inflated prices. I always ask “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much?) before accepting anything, even a “free” cocktail sample. Also beware at Playa Blanca or island excursions: some unscrupulous tour operators have been known to quote one price then demand extra fees later (“oh, that was just for the boat, lunch is another $20”). Book tours through reputable agencies to avoid this.
• Restaurant bill padding: In touristy restaurants or bars, occasionally the bill arrives with mysterious extra charges. Check your itemized bill. In Colombia it’s common for a 10% tip (propina) to be suggested on the bill, but it’s voluntary – you can pay or not. In Cartagena I’ve seen cases where they include it as if mandatory. Don’t be afraid to question anything that looks off.
• Fake or corrupt police scam: Though rarer, I’ll mention it. There have been instances (not just in Cartagena) of people impersonating police to extort tourists – e.g. saying “I need to check your money for counterfeit” then swiping it. If some “officer” approaches you in street clothes asking for your wallet, be very wary. A real police check is extremely uncommon for tourists (unless you’re doing something illegal). In any case, you have the right to insist on going to the police station if they want to search you. Again, this is a rare scam but worth knowing. I’ve personally never encountered it in Cartagena, but it’s happened to others so I keep it in the back of my mind.

Despite those warnings, Cartagena is generally a safe city for travelers. Violent crime is low in the tourist areas. The neighborhoods where crime is higher (far outskirts like the poorer barrio of La Popa or the industrial harbor zone) are places you’d never wander as a tourist. As long as you stay in Bocagrande, the Old City, Getsemaní (a trendy/artsy area just outside the walls), or maybe up north in the hotel zone by the airport, you’ll be fine. Getsemaní, by the way, was once rough but is now super popular with backpackers – it’s lively and reasonably safe, though I’d be extra careful with belongings at night in its busy plaza. One thing to mention: if “nightlife adventure” is on your agenda in Cartagena, be cautious with the city’s more illicit offerings. Cartagena has a reputation (especially among some foreign men) for prostitution and wild partying. There are strip clubs and “prepagos” around, but that scene can be a minefield of trouble – from getting ripped off to being drugged. My advice: stick to the mainstream clubs and bars, enjoy the live music and dancing, but don’t indulge in the sleazy side. Plenty of travelers (and locals) have a blast in Cartagena without ever touching that stuff. (Local tip: Cartagena’s heat is no joke – stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Also, always negotiate taxi fares in advance in this city; they often don’t use meters. A ride within Bocagrande/Old Town should be around 10,000-15,000 pesos, for reference.)

Santa Marta (Gateway to Nature on the Caribbean)

Santa Marta is smaller and more laid-back than Cartagena, known as the jumping-off point for Tayrona National Park, the Lost City trek, and beautiful beaches. The city itself is more rough-around-the-edges, but still, the central tourist areas are okay security-wise. The beachfront El Rodadero area and the historic downtown Centro (around the cathedral and Parque de Los Novios) are the main zones where travelers stay, and those are generally safe with normal precautions.

Santa Marta has a friendly vibe – I’ve walked between my hotel and restaurants in the Centro at night feeling comfortable, as there are usually lots of people out and about. Police patrol the promenade and plaza areas frequently. That said, you’ll notice Santa Marta’s poverty is more apparent than Cartagena’s. You may see more homeless folks or very persistent street sellers. Use the same city smarts: don’t flash valuables, and maybe take a taxi if you need to go through a deserted area at night. Petty theft can happen on the beaches, so never leave your bag unattended when swimming. Better yet, if you go to Tayrona Park or Taganga beach, bring only what you need for the day. I usually leave my passport and credit cards locked up at the hotel and just carry some cash and a photocopy of my ID when doing outdoor excursions.

One particular caution: Taganga, a small beach town 15 minutes from Santa Marta, is popular with backpackers for diving and nightlife, but it has a bit of a sketchy reputation after dark. There have been incidents of muggings on the road to Taganga or on the beach late at night. If you go there to party, use a trusted driver to get back, and don’t wander off alone. Similarly, the Lost City trek (Ciudad Perdida) is in a remote jungle – only go with a reputable tour operator (which is required anyway). That trek is generally very safe these days, with indigenous guides leading the way, but obviously you are in the wilderness, so normal caution (with belongings, etc.) applies. On the whole, Santa Marta and its surroundings offer a relaxed, safe experience for tourists, especially in the main hubs. I find the locals incredibly welcoming. Many travelers say they feel safer in these chill coastal towns than in the big cities, and I’d agree – just keep an eye on your stuff and you’ll be fine. In Tayrona Park, for instance, the bigger threat is sunburn or a monkey stealing your sandwich, not crime! (Local tip: In Santa Marta’s city center, many restaurants and bars close around midnight – it’s not a late-night city like others. Plan accordingly, and enjoy the early morning beach breeze!)

Cali (Salsa Capital, with a Dash of Caution)

Cali is famous for salsa dancing and a lively Afro-Colombian culture. It’s a bit off the typical “Gringo Trail” but still sees plenty of visitors, especially those interested in dance. Cali’s safety situation is somewhat unique: historically, Cali has had one of the highest violent crime rates in Colombia, even topping national homicide charts in past years.

Don’t let that scare you away, but it does mean you should be more vigilant in Cali than in, say, Medellín or Cartagena. Much of Cali’s violence is gang-related and happens in specific barrios, far from tourist zones. As a visitor, you can absolutely have a safe, wonderful time in Cali – you just need to stick to the right areas and follow local advice. The good news is that Cali’s nice neighborhoods (and tourist areas) are known and well-defined. Neighborhoods in the west and north of the city are generally safest. Barrio El Peñón, Granada, San Antonio, and El Centenario are popular areas for restaurants, hotels, and nightlife, and they’re considered among the safer parts of Cali. I’ve stayed in Granada and San Antonio, walking between salsa clubs with friends, and felt okay – though we always took a cab back to our hotel late at night rather than walking lonely streets. In the south, Ciudad Jardín and Pance are upscale districts with malls and parks, also regarded as safe and quiet.

Many locals told me that if you stay out of the “barrios malos” (bad neighborhoods), you’ll avoid the vast majority of the city’s problems. I found that reassuring and true. So, where are the bad areas? In Cali, it’s not as simple as “don’t go south of X street” (crime is somewhat scattered). But as a rule, the East side of Cali (east of say Carrera 40) is poorer and has more crime – tourists have no real reason to venture there. Also, the hillside comuna called Siloé is infamous for violence and absolutely should be avoided. Again, these places are away from tourist circuits. Most visitors stick to the central/western areas and won’t even notice the more dangerous zones.

When I’m in Cali, I exercise a bit more caution with transportation: I use Uber or official taxis even for short hops at night. I avoid walking alone at night outside the immediate area I know. And I definitely keep my phone in my pocket unless I need it – Cali has a high rate of cell phone theft (not unlike elsewhere, but it feels more noticeable there). During the day, I love exploring San Antonio’s colonial streets or hitting a salsa class. Cali’s energy is contagious and the people are proudly hospitable – they want you to enjoy their city and often they’ll go out of their way to give you advice on where to go or not go. To be candid, Cali’s reputation for crime lags behind the improvements seen in Bogotá or Medellín. But things are improving. The government even added a thousand extra police to Cali in recent years and crime has been trending downward somewhat. For a tourist, Cali is safe enough if you stick to the script: stay in the well-known neighborhoods, take licensed transport, and don’t wander off exploring shantytowns. If you do that, the worst you might experience is a taxi overcharging you or someone trying to pickpocket in a crowded salsa club. Meanwhile, you get to enjoy world-class dancing and music in the salsa capital of the world, which is an unforgettable experience. (Local tip: Go catch a show at Tin Tin Deo or La Topa Tolondra – legendary salsa clubs. They’re tourist-friendly. Just keep your drink in hand and your feet on the dance floor!)

Regions and Situations to Avoid Completely

We’ve covered the main tourist cities, but what about the dangerous parts of Colombia you might hear about? It’s true – certain regions of Colombia are legitimately dangerous due to armed groups, drug trafficking, or lack of government control. These are places with ongoing conflicts or criminal activity, where even many Colombians won’t go. The key point is: you, as a tourist, have no reason to be anywhere near these areas. They are far off the tourist trail. To give you an idea, the U.S. State Department Travel Advisory for Colombia is at a general Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”) mostly because of a few hotspots. It explicitly lists a few “Do Not Travel” zones, including the Venezuelan border regions and parts of certain departments (provinces) like Arauca, rural Cauca, and Norte de Santander. These are remote areas with active guerrilla or criminal presence, where kidnapping and violent crime are risks. Unless you are an adventure journalist or volunteering with an NGO, you simply won’t go there. For example, the Venezuela-Colombia border, especially in the far northeast and far southeast, is considered extremely dangerous – I wouldn’t attempt an overland crossing there at all. Similarly, the dense jungle of the Darién Gap on the Panama border is completely off-limits – it’s one of the most dangerous jungles on Earth, and not a “tourist destination” by any stretch.

Other areas often mentioned include parts of Chocó (the Pacific coast rainforest) and certain rural pockets of Nariño, Putumayo, and Meta in the south. These places may have beautiful nature, but they also have guerrilla or narco activity. If there is something legitimately touristy there – for instance, Nuquí and Bahía Solano on the Chocó coast are actually lovely eco-tourism spots – you typically can only reach them by plane and with a tour, which is the safe way to go. Colombians themselves go there for whale-watching, etc., but they fly in and out because overland routes are dangerous. Again, these nuances underscore that yes, some parts of Colombia are dangerous, but as a traveler you’d never accidentally end up there. They’re far from the cities and attractions. The Colombian government and military do a decent job keeping tourist-frequented zones safe. For example, popular national parks and routes are usually well-monitored. And as I mentioned, millions of tourists visit each year without incident. The very few cases where foreigners have run into serious trouble typically involved going to very remote areas against local advice, or doing something very risky like trying to buy drugs from cartels. If you use a bit of foresight – e.g. check the current travel advisories and ask locals if you’re unsure about a destination – you can easily steer clear of any red zones.

In my travels, I’ve gone to some offbeat places like remote villages in the Coffee Region, small towns in Boyacá, and trekking in the Amazon region. I always did so with either local friends or reputable tour operators. If a place was known to be sketchy, I skipped it. For instance, I wanted to visit the Tatacoa Desert and the archaeological sites of Tierradentro – both were perfectly safe when I went, but I made sure to get updated info on the routes because a few years back there were reports of robberies on some intercity roads at night. The solution was simple: I traveled by day and stuck to main highways. No issues encountered.

The big takeaway: When planning your Colombia trip, stick to the well-known destinations (there are plenty!) and use reputable guides for wilderness excursions. By doing that, you naturally avoid the risky regions that, frankly, even most Colombians have never seen. You’re not going to accidentally wander into a guerrilla camp on your way to the Gold Museum or the beach in Santa Marta – geography and basic planning prevent that. So don’t let sensationalist headlines about “Colombia danger” cloud your view. Yes, parts of Colombia remain dangerous, but they’re simply not part of a normal tourist itinerary.

Top Safety Tips for Travelers in Colombia

Let me summarize some practical safety tips that I personally follow and recommend to all our tour clients. These tips will help you travel smart and worry-free across Colombia:

• Blend in and Be Modest: Leave the flashy jewelry, watches, and designer bags at home. Dress casually and avoid flaunting expensive gadgets in public. The whole “no dar papaya” philosophy is about not painting a target on yourself. You can still use your nice camera or smartphone – just be discreet and pull it out when you need it, not as you stroll down a busy street.
• Secure Your Valuables: Use hotel safes or lockers. When I’m out, I carry only a copy of my passport and just enough cash for the day. A cheap decoy wallet with a few bills can be handy to hand over in a mugging scenario (though I’ve never had to). Keep bags zipped and in front of you on buses or in markets. Many thefts are “distraction” schemes – someone bumps you or asks a question while an accomplice lifts your phone. Staying aware of your surroundings is your best defense.
• Use Ride Apps or Dispatch Taxis: As noted, summoning an Uber or using your hotel’s taxi service is much safer than hailing random cabs. It also prevents the common taxi scams since the rate is set. If you must grab a street taxi, try to do so in front of a hotel or restaurant and take a photo of the license plate to show you’re being cautious. At airports, use the official taxi stands.
• Be Cautious at Night: Limit walking in urban areas late at night, especially if you’re alone or in an unfamiliar neighborhood. It’s usually easy and cheap to catch a ride – don’t let a few dollars deter you from taking a safe way home. In party zones like Bogotá’s Zona T or Medellín’s Provenza, it’s generally lively and fine to walk short distances (lots of people around), but once you leave the hub, the streets can get quiet fast. That’s my cue to call a car.
• Keep Your Phone Out of Thieves’ Reach: Because phone snatching is so common, I’ll reiterate: hold your phone with a firm grip if you must use it on the street, or step inside a shop doorway. When sitting outdoors, don’t leave it on the table edge. In vehicles, don’t text right next to an open window in traffic – thieves have been known to reach in. These little habits can save you a ton of hassle.
• Trust the Locals and Your Instincts: Colombians are generally protective of visitors. If a local friend or host advises you not to go somewhere or says “take care around that area,” heed the warning. Also, trust your gut. If a situation or person is making your spidey-sense tingle, move along. I’ve had moments where a block felt too empty or a stranger too interested in me – I politely removed myself from that situation.
• Don’t Resist, Don’t Chase: If you do fall victim to a pickpocket or robber, let it go. Never chase a thief – possessions can be replaced, and chasing could lead you into a worse situation. Also, many thieves work in pairs; if you run after one, you might get jumped by another. It’s hard advice to swallow (we all feel violated when someone steals), but it’s the safe choice. Report the incident to police if you can (mainly for a report if you need it for insurance).
• Carry a Photocopy of ID: In Colombia, police can ask for ID (though tourists are rarely bothered). It’s safer to carry a photocopy of your passport photo page + visa stamp, rather than the original passport, to avoid loss or theft. I keep a digital scan on my phone too. Hotels will want to see your passport at check-in, but otherwise you seldom need the physical document on you.
• Learn a Few Key Phrases in Spanish: Not exactly a safety tip per se, but knowing how to say “Help me, please” (“Ayúdeme, por favor”), “Call the police” (“Llame a la policía”), or even just being able to ask for directions can be useful. Colombians will go out of their way to assist a respectful foreigner attempting Spanish, in my experience.
• Stay Informed: Before traveling between regions, do a quick check of current news or advisories. On rare occasions, there could be a temporary security issue or a protest blocking a road. For example, in the past there have been farmer protests closing highways. It’s good to know that in advance so you can reroute if needed. Your hotel or local contacts are great sources for this kind of info.

I know this is a long list, but to boil it down: Travel in Colombia like you would in any unfamiliar big city – with street smarts and awareness – and you’ll likely be just fine.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Colombia with Confidence

So, is Colombia safe for tourists? Yes – with the caveat that you must take the same precautions you’d take in any developing country or major city. After exploring this country extensively, my personal feeling is that Colombia feels safer than its old reputation suggests. I’ve had incredibly positive experiences here, thanks to the wonderful Colombian people and the nation’s efforts to welcome visitors. The key is understanding the context of crime (most of it doesn’t affect tourists), avoiding the truly risky areas, and using common-sense safety measures. Colombia offers so much – from the misty Coffee Region to the salsa clubs of Cali, the Caribbean beaches to Amazon jungles. It would be a shame to miss out on these because of outdated fears. Statistically, you’re not any more likely to be a victim of violent crime in tourist parts of Colombia than you are in many U.S. cities – and in some cases even less.

The difference is, in Colombia you do need to be more mindful of petty theft and scams. But those are manageable issues. As I often tell hesitant travelers: “If you can navigate New York or Los Angeles, you can navigate Bogotá or Medellín.” You wouldn’t walk down a dark alley in New York at 3 AM dripping in jewelry, right? Same logic here. And unlike in the U.S., you’re highly unlikely to encounter random gun violence – Colombia has strict gun control and criminals typically want your phone or cash, not to hurt you if you comply. In some ways I actually feel more at ease here knowing that.

Traveling through Colombia has given me some of the richest experiences of my life. I’ve danced with strangers in Barranquilla’s carnival, trekked to ancient ruins older than Machu Picchu, and been taken in by a local family in a tiny village and fed more arepas than I could count. Colombians are proud of how far their country has come, and they are usually eager to help you love it too. They know the stigma they carry, and I’ve found that they often go the extra mile to make sure tourists feel safe and happy, to combat that old image. To be clear, I’m not sugarcoating reality – you should remain alert and informed, just as you would anywhere with socio-economic disparities. But fear should not keep you from experiencing Colombia’s magic. The safety situation today is “generally safe, with pockets of caution”, not “hazard everywhere.” Millions visit and leave with only positive stories (or at worst, a missing phone because they got careless on a crowded bus).

My honest, expert opinion: Colombia is safe enough for the attentive traveler. If you follow the advice I’ve laid out – don’t be flashy, secure your stuff, avoid high-risk situations – you’ll likely have an amazing, incident-free trip. The question of safety will quickly fade into the background as you immerse yourself in the music, flavors, and landscapes of this incredible country. Travel smart, and Colombia will embrace you. Bienvenidos and have a wonderful journey!