Is Colombia Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide from 9 Visits

The first time I landed at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá back in 2018, I was terrified. My mother had cried when I told her I was visiting Colombia, and friends shared stories about kidnappings and drug cartels. Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve now visited Colombia nine times, staying for months at a stretch, working remotely from coffee shops in Medellín, hiking through the rugged terrain of Parque Tayrona, and dancing salsa until sunrise in Cali. The Colombia I’ve come to know is a far cry from its outdated stereotypes—yet some safety concerns remain valid. This guide shares everything I’ve learned about staying safe while experiencing the incredible beauty, warmth, and vibrancy that make Colombia one of my favorite countries on Earth.

Colombia Safety Overview for 2025

Colombia has transformed dramatically in recent years. The 2016 peace agreement with FARC rebels marked a turning point, and tourism has boomed since then. In 2025, Colombia is receiving over 5 million international visitors annually—a testament to improving safety conditions. However, it’s essential to understand the current reality rather than rely on outdated perceptions or oversimplified assurances.

Quick Safety Assessment: Colombia is generally safe for informed travelers who take appropriate precautions, avoid certain areas, and follow local advice. Most tourists experience only the country’s incredible hospitality, not its lingering security challenges.

Colombia Safety Statistics in Context

Let’s look at some current data to understand Colombia’s safety situation objectively:

City	Homicide Rate (per 100,000)	Tourist Crime Rate	Safety Perception
Bogotá	13.8	Moderate	Improving
Medellín	15.2	Low-Moderate	Significantly Improved
Cartagena	11.7	Low (petty theft)	Very Good
Cali	42.3	Moderate-High	Exercise Caution

For context, these rates are higher than many European or Asian destinations but lower than several other Latin American countries. The key is understanding that crime in Colombia is highly localized—some neighborhoods in major cities are perfectly safe while others should be avoided entirely.

Bogotá: Safety Neighborhood Guide

As Colombia’s sprawling capital, Bogotá presents a patchwork of safety conditions. During my last stay in December 2024, I noticed significant security improvements in key tourist areas, but caution is still necessary.

Safe Neighborhoods for Tourists

Chapinero Norte & Chapinero Alto: These upscale areas house many international businesses and boutique hotels. I’ve walked here after dark (though not late night) without issues. The zone around Parque 93 is particularly safe and pleasant.
Zona T & Zona Rosa: The city’s premier entertainment district is well-patrolled and safe even at night. This is where I typically stay and enjoy the lively restaurant scene.
Usaquén: This charming area with colonial architecture hosts a wonderful Sunday market. I’ve found it very safe during day and early evening.
La Candelaria (with caution): The historic center is generally safe during the day but requires more awareness at night. Stay in the main tourist sections.

Areas to Avoid in Bogotá

Ciudad Bolívar: This southern district has high crime rates and no significant tourist attractions.
El Bronx & San Bernardo: Despite cleanup efforts, these central areas remain problematic.
Southern sections of La Candelaria: After dark, the southern parts of the historic district become significantly riskier.
Kennedy: This southwestern district has few tourist amenities and higher crime rates.

One morning in La Candelaria, I made the rookie mistake of pulling out my expensive camera near the edge of the tourist area. Within minutes, I noticed two men following me. I quickly ducked into a busy café and stayed there until I was certain they had moved on. The lesson? Even in “mostly safe” areas, situational awareness matters enormously.

Medellín: From World’s Most Dangerous to Innovation Hub

Medellín’s transformation from the world’s most dangerous city in the 1990s to an award-winning urban innovation showcase is nothing short of remarkable. I’ve spent more time here than anywhere else in Colombia and have witnessed the continuing evolution of safety conditions firsthand.

Safe Areas in Medellín

El Poblado: The city’s safest district and expat hub with excellent restaurants, nightlife, and accommodations. I’ve walked here alone at all hours without incident.
Laureles: A more authentic neighborhood that’s still very safe. This has become my preferred area to stay, as it offers better value and a more local experience while maintaining good security.
Envigado: This separate municipality adjacent to Medellín has a small-town feel with strong safety records. Great for longer stays and immersion.
Sabaneta: Another satellite town with low crime rates and authentic Colombian culture.

Exercise Caution In

Centro: The downtown area is fine during business hours but becomes significantly riskier after dark.
Comuna 13: Once notorious, now a tourist attraction showcasing transformation. Visit with a reputable tour guide during daylight hours only.
Prado: This historic neighborhood has beautiful architecture but higher crime rates. Visit during the day only.

Areas to Avoid in Medellín

Comuna 1-6: With the exception of guided tours to Comuna 13, these hillside neighborhoods have limited tourist infrastructure and higher crime rates.
Northeast sections: Areas like Popular and Santo Domingo should only be visited with local guides, if at all.

I made an embarrassing mistake during my second visit to Medellín in 2019. After a night out in Parque Lleras, I decided to take a shortcut back to my accommodation around 2 AM. Despite being in El Poblado, the dark, empty street I chose made me an easy target. Two men approached and demanded my phone and wallet. Fortunately, I had a “dummy wallet” with just a small amount of cash, which they took before leaving. The lesson? Even in safe areas, stick to well-lit, populated streets at night, and consider using ride-sharing services for late-night transportation.

Coastal Colombia: Cartagena and Beyond

The Caribbean coast offers a different safety profile than the interior cities. The laid-back atmosphere brings specific challenges and advantages for travelers.

Cartagena Safety Zones

Cartagena is generally one of Colombia’s safer major destinations for tourists, with most issues limited to petty theft and scams rather than violent crime.

Walled City/Centro Histórico: Extremely safe during the day and generally safe at night due to police presence. I’ve wandered these colonial streets after midnight many times without incident.
Bocagrande & Castillogrande: These beach areas with high-rise hotels maintain good security standards. Think of these as the “Miami Beach” of Cartagena.
Getsemaní: Once rough, now a trendy area that’s safe during the day and early evening. Exercise more caution late at night.

Areas to Avoid in Cartagena

Southern neighborhoods like Nelson Mandela have high poverty and crime rates.
Most beaches outside the city limits after dark.

Other Coastal Destinations

Santa Marta: The city center and tourist zone of Rodadero are generally safe, but as in Cartagena, be vigilant about valuables on the beach.
Palomino: This beachside town is popular with backpackers but has seen increased reports of theft. I had my sandals stolen from the beach here in 2023!
Parque Tayrona: The national park is generally safe during operating hours but has occasional reports of robbery on more isolated trails. Hike in groups when possible.

During my visit to Cartagena in early 2025, I witnessed an increasingly common scam. A friendly local offered to take my photo in front of the Clock Tower, then invited me to a “special local festival” happening nearby. These “festivals” are typically fronts for overpriced restaurants or shops where tourists are pressured into spending money. I politely declined, but many travelers fall for these seemingly innocent invitations.

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

After nine visits, I’ve either witnessed or been targeted by most of Colombia’s common tourist scams. Here’s how to avoid them:

The Taxi Overcharge

Taxi drivers may take longer routes or claim their meter is broken to charge extra, especially from airports. In January 2025, I had a driver at El Dorado Airport in Bogotá try to charge me 90,000 COP (Colombian Pesos) for a ride that should cost around 35,000 COP.

How to avoid it: Use ride-sharing apps like Cabify, Didi, or InDriver when possible. At airports, look for official taxi stands with set rates or prepay at a booth. Know the approximate fare before getting in any taxi.

The “Friendly” Drug Offer

Despite Colombia’s efforts to move past its drug-trafficking image, tourists are still approached with offers to purchase cocaine and other drugs, especially in nightlife areas.

How to avoid it: Firmly decline any offers. Remember that possession is illegal in Colombia, and tourists involved in drug transactions become targets for both police (expecting bribes) and criminals.

The Spill Trick

Someone “accidentally” spills something on your clothes, then another person offers to help clean it while picking your pockets.

How to avoid it: If something is spilled on you, refuse help and move to a safe place to clean yourself. Keep walking if necessary.

The ATM Helper

Someone offers to “help” you use a malfunctioning ATM, then either steals your card information or performs a sleight of hand to take your card.

How to avoid it: Only use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and decline any offers of assistance.

Transportation Safety Tips

How you move around Colombia significantly impacts your safety. Here’s what I’ve learned about transportation safety over my numerous visits:

Ridesharing and Taxis

Use Cabify, DiDi, or InDriver apps whenever possible—they’re generally safer than hailing street taxis and allow tracking.
If using a street taxi, note the vehicle’s license plate and send it to someone or pretend to do so as you enter.
In Bogotá, yellow taxis are legitimate but insist they use the meter (“Por favor, use el taxímetro“).
From airports, only use official taxi stands or pre-arranged transportation.

Public Transportation

Bogotá’s TransMilenio: Safe during day but can be extremely crowded, creating perfect pickpocketing conditions. Avoid during rush hours if possible and during late evening.
Medellín’s Metro: Generally safe and clean at all hours. The pride of the city.
Buses: Intercity buses from reputable companies like Expreso Brasilia are generally safe. Opt for “executive” or “VIP” service when available for better security.

Driving in Colombia

Renting a car gives you freedom but comes with challenges:

Driving in major cities is chaotic and not recommended for first-time visitors.
Rural roads may have security concerns in certain regions. Always research current conditions.
Never drive at night in rural areas, both for safety and road condition reasons.

During my trip to the Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero) in 2024, I rented a car to explore small towns and coffee farms. While the experience was incredible, I almost made a serious mistake by planning to drive back to Pereira after sunset. A local coffee farmer insisted I leave earlier, explaining that the mountain roads become significantly more dangerous after dark—not just from crime but from trucks taking blind curves at high speeds. That advice potentially saved me from a hazardous situation.

Money and Belongings Safety

How you handle your money and valuables can make or break your Colombia experience. Here are my tried-and-tested strategies:

My 3 Insider Money-Saving Security Tips

The Dummy Wallet Method: I always carry a basic wallet with a small amount of cash (around 50,000-100,000 COP) and an expired card. This is what I’d hand over in a robbery. My actual cards and larger cash amounts stay in a hidden money belt or secure inner pocket.
The “Emergency 20” Trick: I keep a crisp US $20 bill hidden in my phone case. If I lose everything else, this is enough for transportation back to my accommodation and a meal. Most Colombian taxis and many businesses will accept dollars in a pinch, though usually at a poor exchange rate.
WhatsApp Banking Groups: When traveling with friends or meeting other travelers, we create a WhatsApp group for tracking shared expenses and, more importantly, for security alerts. If one person notices suspicious activity in an area, they immediately alert the group. This has helped us avoid several potential issues in Bogotá and Medellín.

ATM Safety Protocol

Use ATMs inside shopping malls, banks, or grocery stores during daylight hours.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Check for any unusual devices attached to the machine (skimmers).
Set up transaction alerts on your banking app to immediately detect unauthorized withdrawals.
I prefer using the Bancolombia ATMs as they typically have better security.

Smartphone Protection

Phone theft is one of the most common crimes targeting tourists in Colombia.

Never use your phone while walking on the street, especially near road intersections where motorcyclists can quickly grab it.
Consider a cheap “travel phone” for Colombia if you usually carry a flagship device.
Set up remote wiping capabilities before your trip.
Use a non-descript phone case that doesn’t advertise your device’s brand.

Local Phrase: “No dar papaya” (Don’t give papaya) is Colombian slang meaning don’t make yourself an easy target by displaying valuables or acting carelessly. It’s essential advice that locals follow too!

Solo Female Traveler Safety

While I’m a male traveler, I’ve received extensive feedback from solo female friends who have visited Colombia based on my recommendations. Their experiences and advice are worth sharing:

Challenges for Women Travelers

Catcalling (“piropos“) is unfortunately common in certain areas.
Solo women may receive more unwanted attention, particularly in smaller towns.
Perception of foreign women can be influenced by stereotypes in some regions.

Safety Strategies from Female Travelers

Dress like locals in the area you’re visiting. In Bogotá, this means more conservative attire than on the coast.
Consider wearing a fake wedding ring to deflect unwanted attention.
Use confidence as a deterrent—walk purposefully as if you know exactly where you’re going.
Build connections with hotel staff or hosts who can provide advice and assistance.
Consider starting your visit with group activities or tours to build a social network before venturing out alone.
The phrase “Estoy esperando a mi esposo/novio” (I’m waiting for my husband/boyfriend) can be useful to deter persistent attention.

My friend Sarah, who traveled solo through Colombia for three months in 2024, shared this advice: “I felt safest in Medellín’s El Poblado and Laureles neighborhoods. I could walk alone during the day without harassment. For nights out, I always used rideshare apps rather than walking, even for short distances. The most uncomfortable I felt was actually in small tourist towns where being a solo blonde woman made me stand out significantly.”

Rural Colombia Safety Considerations

Some of Colombia’s most beautiful destinations lie outside major cities. I’ve ventured to many of these areas, from the coffee region to remote parts of the Caribbean coast, and have found them to have different safety considerations than urban centers.

Generally Safe Rural Areas

Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero): The area around Salento, Filandia, and Armenia has excellent safety records and well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Villa de Leyva: This colonial town and its surroundings offer safe exploration opportunities.
Barichara & San Gil: These picturesque towns in Santander are generally very safe for tourists.
Minca: This mountain town near Santa Marta has become popular with travelers and maintains good safety standards on main routes.

Areas Requiring Extra Research

The security situation in these regions can change, so current research is essential:

Putumayo & Caquetá: These southern departments have spectacular nature but also ongoing security concerns.
Parts of Cauca: Some areas have increased political tensions.
Certain sections of the Pacific Coast: Beyond tourist enclaves like Nuquí, security can be variable.
Border regions: Areas near Venezuela and parts of the Ecuadorian border require careful assessment.

Before visiting any rural area, I always:

Check the latest U.S. State Department and UK Foreign Office advisories for that specific region
Ask locals in nearby cities about current conditions
Connect with recent travelers through forums or social media
Book accommodations in advance so someone is expecting my arrival

Digital Safety in Colombia

As a digital nomad who has worked remotely from Colombia multiple times, I’ve learned that cyber security deserves as much attention as physical safety:

Public WiFi Precautions

Always use a reliable VPN when connecting to public WiFi in cafes, airports, or hotels.
Avoid accessing financial accounts when on public networks.
Consider a portable WiFi device with a local SIM card for more secure connections.

SIM Card Recommendations

Having a local phone number enhances safety by allowing easy access to ride-sharing apps and emergency services.

Claro: Best overall coverage, especially in rural areas.
Movistar: Excellent service in cities and many tourist areas.
Tigo: Good urban coverage with competitive data packages.

You can purchase SIM cards at any provider’s store in shopping malls or at the airport (though airport prices are higher). Bring your passport as identification is required for registration.

Emergency Contacts

Save these numbers in your phone before traveling to Colombia:

National Emergency: 123
Tourist Police: (1) 3374413
Your Embassy in Colombia (find on your government’s website)

Colombia’s Security Progress and Remaining Challenges

Understanding Colombia’s security transformation provides context for current safety conditions:

Post-Peace Agreement Reality

The 2016 peace agreement with FARC rebels marked a turning point in Colombia’s security landscape. Since then:

Homicide rates nationally have decreased significantly
Tourism has grown exponentially
Many formerly dangerous areas have become accessible

However, challenges remain:

Dissident groups rejected the peace process in some areas
Urban crime persists, particularly theft and robbery
Economic inequality continues to drive security issues

2025 Safety Outlook

The current administration has continued security improvements, with particular focus on tourist areas. In 2025, tourist police presence has increased in major destinations, and a new digital reporting system makes it easier for visitors to report crimes in English.

During my visit in February 2025, I noticed significantly increased police presence in Bogotá’s La Candelaria and Medellín’s El Centro, areas that previously required more caution. This visible security presence has improved both actual safety and tourists’ perception of safety.

Sustainability and Safety: An Unexpected Connection

Interestingly, my sustainable travel practices in Colombia have often enhanced my safety while saving money:

Eco-Friendly Safety Tips

Use public transportation during daylight hours: Medellín’s metro and Bogotá’s TransMilenio are not only environmentally friendly but generally safe during the day and much cheaper than taxis.
Stay in locally-owned accommodations: Building relationships with local hosts provides valuable safety information and supports the community. My favorite hostel in Medellín, Casa Kiwi, has staff who provide detailed neighborhood guidance.
Join community-based tours: Organizations like Comuna 13 Tours in Medellín not only offer safer access to recovering neighborhoods but invest profits in community development.
Shop at local markets: Markets like Paloquemao in Bogotá are safer during morning hours, offer better prices, and reduce packaging waste compared to supermarkets.

Economic Benefits for Safety-Conscious Travelers

By living more like a local, you’ll not only save money but often stay safer:

Eating at local restaurants away from tourist zones (but still in safe areas) reduces both cost and the likelihood of being targeted as a tourist.
Using local transportation apps like DiDi instead of identifying yourself as a tourist by hailing street taxis can be both cheaper and safer.
Shopping where locals shop helps you blend in while saving money.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Colombia Safety Action Plan

After nine visits spanning seven years, I can confidently say that Colombia offers an incredible travel experience when approached with the right preparation. The country’s warmth, diversity, and natural beauty far outweigh its safety challenges for informed travelers.

To maximize your safety while experiencing the best of Colombia, follow this 5-step action plan:

Research Neighborhoods Carefully: Choose accommodations in the safer areas outlined in this guide. Your location is the foundation of your safety strategy.
Implement the “No Dar Papaya” Principle: Adopt a low-profile appearance, secure your valuables, and maintain awareness of your surroundings at all times.
Connect with Local Knowledge: Upon arrival, speak with hotel staff, tour guides, and other travelers about current conditions and area-specific advice.
Master Transportation Safety: Use ride-sharing apps, only take registered taxis, avoid walking alone at night, and research any regional travel carefully.
Create a Communication Plan: Purchase a local SIM card immediately, save emergency numbers, and establish check-in protocols with someone back home.

With these measures in place, you’re ready to experience the spectacular landscapes, vibrant culture, and unmatched hospitality that have made Colombia one of my favorite destinations in the world. The country once known primarily for its conflicts has transformed into a remarkable travel destination that rewards those who visit with proper preparation and an open mind.

“¡Colombia es pasión!” (Colombia is passion!) as locals say—and experiencing that passion safely is one of travel’s greatest rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Colombia

Is Colombia safe for American tourists in 2025?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe for American tourists who stay in recommended areas and follow basic safety precautions. Americans are among the largest groups of visitors to Colombia, with over 650,000 visiting annually. The Colombian government prioritizes tourist safety, with special police units dedicated to tourist areas. That said, Americans should maintain a lower profile than they might at home, as perceived wealth can attract unwanted attention.

Which is safer: Bogotá, Medellín, or Cartagena?

For tourists staying in recommended neighborhoods, Cartagena generally has the lowest crime rates affecting visitors, followed by Medellín, then Bogotá. However, each city has very safe areas and areas to avoid. Medellín’s El Poblado and Laureles, Bogotá’s Chapinero and Usaquén, and Cartagena’s Walled City are all comparably safe for tourists. The differentiating factor is often how walkable these areas are at night, with Cartagena’s Walled City and Medellín’s El Poblado offering better nighttime walkability than most parts of Bogotá.

Is Colombia safe for solo female travelers?

Colombia can be safe for solo female travelers who take appropriate precautions, but it does present some additional challenges. Unwanted attention and catcalling occur, particularly outside major tourist zones. Solo female travelers should research accommodations carefully, use transportation apps rather than hailing taxis, and consider initially joining group tours to build connections. Many solo female travelers report feeling comfortable in Medellín’s El Poblado and Laureles, Bogotá’s northern districts, and within Cartagena’s Walled City.

Is public transportation safe in Colombia?

The safety of public transportation varies by city and system. Medellín’s Metro system is generally very safe, clean, and efficient at all hours. Bogotá’s TransMilenio is safe during non-peak hours but becomes extremely crowded during rush hour, creating pickpocketing opportunities. City buses (colectivos) vary widely in safety; in major cities, they’re generally fine during daylight hours. For intercity travel, stick with reputable bus companies like Expreso Bolivariano or Copetran and opt for direct routes rather than ones with multiple stops.

Should I carry my passport while traveling in Colombia?

No, it’s generally not recommended to carry your original passport while out exploring. Colombian law technically requires foreigners to carry identification, but a high-quality color photocopy of your passport photo page and entry stamp is usually sufficient for day-to-day encounters with authorities. Keep your original passport secured in your accommodation’s safe. I’ve been asked for identification several times during my visits and a photocopy has always been accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Colombia?

In major cities and tourist areas, credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Visa and Mastercard have the widest acceptance, while American Express and Discover have more limited usage. However, you’ll need cash for smaller establishments, markets, taxis, and when traveling in rural areas. I typically carry enough cash for daily expenses while using credit cards for larger purchases. Notify your bank before traveling to prevent security blocks on your card.

What should I do if I’m robbed in Colombia?

If you’re confronted by robbers, the safest approach is to comply with their demands without resistance. Material possessions can be replaced, but your safety is paramount. After any incident, report to the tourist police (who often speak English) and your country’s embassy or consulate. For insurance claims, you’ll need a police report, which can be filed at any police station or tourist police office. Keep digital copies of all important documents to facilitate replacement of stolen items.

Is tap water safe to drink in Colombia?

Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, bottled or filtered water is recommended. I typically drink tap water in major cities but switch to bottled water when visiting smaller communities. If you’re sensitive to changes in water mineral content, you might prefer bottled water even in cities where tap water is technically safe.