Safety in Colombia

Staying Safe

In recent years, traveling to Colombia has become increasingly safer for foreigners, as the government has increased patrol in all major touristic areas as well as in rural areas, and in 2005-06, most of the paramilitaries disarmed. Other than the FARC in very remote areas, Colombia is now very safe for tourism.

Be sure to use common sense while traveling in Colombia, just as you would in any other location. We recommend that you leave valuable jewelry – including watches – at home, as well as expensive electronics. Carry a money belt, use the hotel safe to hold your passport and other important documents, and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re going out at night, stay in a group; better if you can go with a trusted Colombian or tour guide. If you want to take a taxi, ask for it using a phone service – it costs the same and it’s quick. Be especially careful about your surroundings when withdrawing cash from an ATM.

All our tours include professional tour guides, and we will arrange all transportation, transfers, hotels, and tours that we know personally and recommend highly.

For US Citizens, the State Department recommends bookmarking the Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts page, following their Twitter and Facebook accounts, and/or downloading their free Smart Traveler App on iTunes to stay up-to-date on travel warnings and news. They also offer useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office recommends against travel to some areas of Colombia.