Safety in Colombia

Hi everyone, we’re planning to spend 2 months in Colombia (February–March), and the current events have us wondering about safety. Do you have any updates, or have you just come back that might reassure us? Thanks!

I’d recommend following the advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/colombie/#securite

And most importantly, absolutely avoid the “red” zones on the map. The Catatumbo region is actually marked “red.”

It also states: “The security situation in the Catatumbo region, located in northeastern Colombia on the border with Venezuela, has been marked for the past 5 days by violent clashes between armed groups, which have left 80 dead and caused the displacement of tens of thousands of people. French nationals are formally advised against traveling to this region and, in general, to all border areas of the country.”

For the rest, just follow the “classic” tips...

Hi there, you should avoid the border with Venezuela, and in big cities, follow the same basic safety rules as you would anywhere else. We’ve done two month-long trips—most recently this past fall—without any issues. *Tranquilo*, as they say…

I got back last week after spending over a month in Colombia. Really no problems at all in the small towns and villages. Just avoid hanging around at night in the big cities and take the same precautions on public transport as you would in any other country in the world. Have a great trip, Colombians are lovely!