Welcome to Colombia, a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences. As you embark on your journey through this enchanting country, our top priority is your safety and peace of mind. Colombia has undergone remarkable transformations in recent years, making it an increasingly popular travel destination. From the lush Amazon rainforests to the stunning beaches of the Caribbean coast, and the bustling urban charm of cities like Bogotá and Medellín, Colombia offers a diverse range of adventures.

While the country has made great strides in enhancing security and infrastructure, it’s always wise to stay informed about the latest travel advisories, follow local guidelines, and exercise caution in unfamiliar areas. Your well-being is paramount, and by staying aware and prepared, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and warmth that Colombia has to offer.

Here you will find resources and things to keep in mind when traveling to Colombia.

Prioritize simplicity in your appearance. As a visitor, you naturally attract attention due to sightseeing, photography, and exploring. This can make you more noticeable, along with the possessions you carry. It’s wise to minimize the visibility of items that draw excessive attention. A good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing anything that you wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing on a late-night subway ride in NYC. This applies to Colombia as well. We recommend refraining from wearing conspicuous jewelry, especially pieces that appear expensive.

Exercise caution with your phone use while walking on the streets. Displaying valuable items openly can attract unwarranted attention, particularly from individuals on motorbikes or passersby. Although such incidents are rarer in tourist-frequented areas compared to the local neighborhoods, it’s still essential to remain vigilant and careful. Our advice is to blend in by keeping your attire and accessories simple. By taking these precautions, you enhance your personal safety during your travels.

While the acceptance of credit cards is becoming more widespread in various establishments, it’s important to note that not all places have adopted this convenience. To ensure smooth financial transactions during your travels, we recommend adopting a thoughtful approach.

Consider carrying a moderate amount of cash when venturing outside your accommodation, while also leaning on your credit cards for most transactions. This way, if an unfortunate event befalls your wallet, your losses will be limited to a manageable sum of cash. Additionally, credit cards can be swiftly frozen or cancelled in case of emergencies.

For enhanced preparedness, equip yourself with two physical credit cards and supplement them with two digital cards accessible through mobile payment methods like Google Pay or Apple Pay on your smartphone. This strategic setup offers a safety net in scenarios where your bank might freeze your account due to suspected irregularities or if any personal items are misplaced.

Prudent planning extends to your accommodations as well. Always leave behind one or two spare cards in your hotel room, serving as an ultimate fallback. This foresight can be invaluable should you encounter the unfortunate circumstance of losing both your wallet and smartphone. With backup cards available at your lodging, you’ll have a reliable recourse awaiting you.

To minimize the risk of disruptions, we recommend notifying your credit card issuer about your travel plans. By informing the bank of your intended international travel dates, you can prevent potential account holds triggered by perceived suspicious activities. While not all financial institutions necessitate travel notifications, taking this step can offer an added layer of assurance during your journey.

Prioritizing these prudent measures ensures that your financial affairs remain steady and your trip is devoid of unnecessary complications. Your financial security is paramount, and adopting these strategies will undoubtedly contribute to your peace of mind while exploring Colombia.

The U.S. Department of State provides invaluable travel advisories for various countries, employing a four-level classification system ranging from Level 1 (indicating the most favorable conditions) to Level 4 (denoting the least favorable conditions). Over the years, Colombia has consistently been placed within Travel Advisory Levels 2 and 3. While many travelers do continue to explore the country during these phases, they often confine themselves to well-trodden tourist hubs. It’s crucial to exercise heightened caution when venturing beyond these designated safe zones.

To ensure that you’re equipped with the latest and most accurate information, we encourage you to visit the U.S. Department of State’s Colombia Travel Information page. This resource not only provides updated insights but also offers access to details about the U.S. Embassy in Colombia and its informative messages.

While our team has not personally tested the STEP program, it comes highly recommended, particularly for solo adventurers. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a complimentary service designed to facilitate the registration of U.S. citizens and nationals embarking on international journeys or residing abroad. By enrolling your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, you can enjoy a range of benefits:

1. **Stay Informed:** Receive vital updates from the Embassy regarding safety conditions in your chosen destination, empowering you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel itinerary.

2. **Emergency Connectivity:** Facilitate swift communication between you and the U.S. Embassy during emergencies, whether they involve natural disasters, civil disturbances, or family-related crises.

3. **Assist Loved Ones:** Enable your family and friends to establish contact with you promptly in case of any unforeseen emergency.

If this piques your interest, we invite you to explore the dedicated STEP program page and create an account. Your safety is our utmost priority, and taking advantage of resources like STEP can significantly enhance your peace of mind while journeying abroad.