Colombia travel advice (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to travel to Colombia right now? ›

Reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas. Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia.

Travelers must complete Migración Colombia's Online Check-Mig Form within 72 hours of boarding an inbound or outbound flight from Colombia. There is no fee to complete the form.

Traveling to Bogota is safe, but you should stick to the right neighborhoods and use heightened safety precautions just like you would in New York or London.

On the other hand, parts of Colombia considered safe and approved for travel include Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Tunja, Bucaramanga, the departments of Quindio, Risaralda, and Caldas, and most major cities.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a level three travel advisory for Colombia and recommends that U.S. citizens reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism and exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping.

The most peaceful region in South America, according to the GPI index, is Uruguay. It is also the only South American country to rank amongst the 50 most peaceful countries globally, and can thereby be acclaimed as the safest South American country for expats.

Be cautious when using public transport in Colombia. There have been several recent incidents of armed robbery on buses. Avoid displaying valuable items like laptops, cameras and mobile phones. Do not wear jewellery and only carry minimal amounts of cash.

Can you drink the water in Colombia? ›

The major cities where it is safe to drink include Medellín and Bogotá. As well as in some smaller towns, such as Jericó and Jardín. If you are going off the beaten path to a more rural area, the locals may advise you to drink bottled water or you can boil the water.

Some Check-Mig facts

Check-Mig is required for everyone on all flights in and out of Colombia. It's free so no need to pay… The form is much easier to fill in on-line (via a web browser such as Google Chrome) than the phone app.

If you are currently planning a trip to Colombia or already live there and want to travel abroad, you need to complete the Colombia Check MIG form; a mandatory document for all people entering and leaving Colombia via air. This form is mandatory for both nationals and foreigners entering or leaving Colombia.

Those who bring in to Colombia over US $ 10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, including Colombian pesos in cash must declare this in the Baggage and Money Declaration Form.

Cartagena is generally safe during the day, but it's a good idea to stay in the busier areas and avoid deserted or dimly lit streets, especially at night. Be cautious at night. While Cartagena's nightlife is one of its main attractions, it's essential to exercise caution after dark.

1. Chile. Ranking as one of the safest countries in South America and the world, Chile remains a favorite travel destination for its epic scenery and cultural diversity. It is a colorful country full of captivating outdoor activities, cultural cities, and coastal sanctuaries.

Is it safe for an American to travel to Colombia? Yes, it is safe. Medellin is no different than any large city in the world, you have to take care of yourself the same way as in any other city (US included): No walking around alone at night in dark places, no leaving your belongings unnatended at a restaurant, etc.

Medellín. Overall it is one of the country's safest cities. It is safer than Bogota, though there is still sometimes petty theft against tourists. Medellin is also much safer during the day than at night time.