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Colombia – A nation that pulses with lively culture, beautiful Andes landscapes, lush coffee areas and Caribbean coastlines – continues to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide. From the historic streets of Cartagena to the bustling energy of Bogotá and the modern atmosphere of Medellin, the attraction cannot be denied. In the midst of this allure, however, the US Department of Foreign Affairs has issued an updated travel advice, in which potential visitors are encouraged to carefully weigh the risks.
On April 17, 2025, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reissued its advice for ColombiaMaintaining the country in a general Level 3: reconsideration reconsider. This level is just below the most serious warning, level 4: not traveling. Level 3 advice does not mean Americans not Go, but it indicates serious risks to safety and security that justify careful consideration before it is booked.
Based on more than 20 trips to Medellin in the past four years, I can genuinely testify to the importance of observing official travel wars. Although I was personally lucky to prevent major incidents, reports of robberies that focus on foreign tourists are omnipresent and occur almost daily. Even spend a short time Medellin Expat Facebook group Offers a realistic understanding of the situation on the spot.
Why the caution? Insight into the risks
The advice marks various major concerns throughout Colombia: Crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. Violent crime is not isolated according to specific areas; Incidents such as murder, abuse and armed robbery are unfortunately common in many parts of the country. Organized crime groups are active and are involved in extortion, theft and abduction. Drive-by Pchatchings of telephones and valuables by thieves on motorcycles are also a frequent danger, in particular aimed at those signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry.
Terrorist groups, including dissident factions that refused to demobilize after peace agreements and organizations such as the National Liberation Army (ELN), still operate and form a threat. They can attack with little warning, aimed at locations visited by tourists, transport hubs, markets, government facilities and other public areas.
Moreover, civil unrest is a factor. Political demonstrations take place regularly and can unexpectedly close roads and highways, disrupt travel and sometimes become violent.
“Do not travel” zones: areas with a high risk
Although the country is in general level 3, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises strongly against all Travel (level 4) to specific regions because of extreme danger:
- Arauca, Cauca (excluding the city of Popayán) and Norte de Santander departments: These areas are confronted with considerable threats of both crime and terrorism. Violent crime mainly occurs.
- The Colombia-Venzuela border region: This zone is marked for a high crime, kidnapping, potentially conflict between armed groups and the risk of casual crossing to Venezuela, which can lead to detention.
The US government has limited ability to provide emergency services to citizens in this level 4 areas, and official American staff are confronted with serious travel restrictions.
A specific danger: dating -app risks, especially in Medellin
Beyond the general advice, one Critical security warning that was previously published by the American Embassy in Bogotá Remains very relevant, especially for visitors to large cities such as Medellin, Cartagena and Bogotá. Criminals are increasingly using Online dating applications (such as Tinder, Bumble, Grindr and others) to lure victims, especially foreigners.
The pattern often means that we match someone online and agree to meet each other in a public place as a bar or restaurant, or sometimes in the hotel or home of the victim. Criminals, who sometimes work in teams, then use drugs to eliminate their victims – Scopolamine (also known as “Devil’s Breath”) is often used because it can make a person unconscious and cause memory loss. Once drugged, victims are robbed of their possessions, including telephones, portfolios, bank cards and computers. Tragically enough, countless incidents in which American citizens are drugged, robbed and even killed after they have met someone through a dating app. The embassy noticed an important peak in thefts and violent deaths involving foreign visitors in Medellin in 2023 and 2024, many linked to these dating app measurements and potential drug or overdose scenarios.
Travel smarter and safer
If you decide to travel to Colombia despite the advice of level 3:
- Be informed: Read the full travel advice and country information page on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for warnings and an easier location in emergency situations.
- Stay aware: Constantly maintain situational awareness. Not only at night, especially in unknown areas. Keep a low profile – Avoid displaying cash or expensive jewelry.
- Transport: Do not greet taxis on the street. Use renowned shipping services or vehicle-for-rent apps. US government employees are not allowed to use street taxis.
- Dating -apps: Extreme caution. If you meet someone new, only do this in very public places for first encounters. Inform a friend or family member of your plans, who you meet and which app you used. Never leave drinks or food without supervision. Be on your guard to invite strangers for your accommodation.
- Demonstrations: Avoid all protests and large crowds because they can become violent without warning. Guard local media.
- Have a plan: Prepare for emergency situations and make sure you have a sufficient travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Colombia offers incredible experiences, but the current security landscape requires caution. By understanding the risks of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and taking proactive safety measures, travelers can make better informed decisions to protect themselves and at the same time explore this fascinating country.
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This article originally appeared on Traveloffpath.com
Opinions here are only the author, not those of a bank, credit card emitting, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been assessed, approved or otherwise approved by one of the entities that are included in the post.
