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Colombia
- Colombia has significantly improved its safety and security in recent years, making it a popular travel destination; however, moderate travel risks remain present due to crime, political instability, and environmental hazards.
- Principal risks include petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, which is common in urban areas like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, and the potential for violent crime, including robberies, in certain neighborhoods or after dark.
- The quality of infrastructure varies widely across Colombia, with urban areas generally well-developed, while rural areas frequently lack essential services. Health facilities are adequate in cities but limited in remote areas.
Risk Factors
- Travelers to Colombia face moderate crime risks, including petty theft in urban areas, potential violent crime in certain neighborhoods, and localized threats from organized crime and narcotrafficking in remote regions.
- Cali experiences higher levels of both violent and petty crime, whereas the popular tourist destinations of Bogotá, Cartagena, and San Andrés generally have lower rates of major crimes.
- Petty theft is common, particularly in crowded urban areas, tourist hotspots, public transportation, and nightlife districts. Incidents often include pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft of unattended belongings. Cell phones are a high target item.
- Most incidents of violent crime include armed robberies or muggings in urban areas or unsafe neighborhoods, particularly at night. Criminals often carry weapons and have been known to resort to violence if resisted.
- Colombia witnesses high kidnap for ransom rates; however, targets largely include wealthy locals or government officials. To further reduce risk, avoid overt displays of wealth.
- Foreign nationals have been targeted for express kidnappings, a short-term abduction where the victim is typically coerced into withdrawing money from ATMs. Precautions include avoiding unregulated taxis, particularly in isolated or poorly lit urban areas.
- Theft by drugging is a dangerous crime that has been known to be reported. The most commonly used drug is scopolamine, also known as burundanga. The majority of these crimes occur near bars and nightclubs, where young women often administer the drug by placing it in food or beverages or blowing it into the face of wealthy men.
- Be cautious of societal unrest and anti-government protests in Colombia, which are common and can escalate into violence. Monitor alerts to stay abreast of developments and avoid protest locations.
- Protests in the capital of Bogotá often draw large crowds and can lead to roadblocks or clashes with police.
- Cali has a history of intense protests, particularly during nationwide strikes, with higher potential for unrest and disruptions.
- Travel by road can be hazardous due to poorly maintained infrastructure and lax enforcement of traffic laws. It is advisable to avoid night travel in rural areas.
- Avoid hailing taxis off the street to minimize the risk of express kidnapping. This is particularly true in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali where robbery of taxi passengers is more common.
- At night, it is advisable for travelers to exclusively rely on radio taxis, taxis arranged by their hotel, or to use a ride-sharing app such as Uber.
- Public buses should not be used due to concerns of theft and assault. The country’s metro systems, offered in several cities in Colombia, are generally safe and efficient.
- Colombia has strict regulations regarding its national parks and wildlife. Avoid taking plants, animals, or artifacts as souvenirs.
- In religious or rural areas, dress conservatively to respect local customs. Beachwear is acceptable only in coastal or resort areas.
- Colombia has strict drug laws, and possession, use, or trafficking of even small amounts of illegal drugs can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
- Do not travel to rural areas with active paramilitary or guerrilla presence unless absolutely necessary and with local security guidance.
- These areas include regions bordering Venezuela and Ecuador, where narcotrafficking driven violence is a significant risk.
- The Darién Gap and Pacific Coast, where paramilitary successors and guerrilla groups operate.
- Areas such as La Macarena (Meta) and the Amazon jungle in Putumayo and Guaviare, which witness limited law enforcement presence and active criminal groups.
- Illegal mining zones, especially in Antioquia and Córdoba, are often controlled by criminal organizations or armed groups.