US Embassy issues new security warning for popular Latin American country

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Colombia remains one of the most popular destinations in South America for American travelers, known for its biodiversity, vibrant culture and favorable exchange rate. However, a new security alert from the US Embassy highlights the complex security environment that currently exists in the country.

While major tourist centers remain accessible, the U.S. State Department urges caution How travelers move between destinations.

It is critical to contextualize this warning: Colombia is much safer today than it was ten years agothat has successfully transformed itself from a conflict zone to one of the world’s territories most celebrated tourism success stories.

Here’s what you need to know about the latest ‘Armed Strike’ warning, the dangers of intercity highways, and a reminder of the ongoing risks posed by dating apps in big cities.

The new alarm: risks on the roads

The US Embassy in Bogota has issued a security alert regarding an announced “armed attack” by the National Liberation Day (ELN).

While the specific strike is planned December 14 to December 17the consequences for travelers extend beyond these dates. An ‘armed attack’ (Paro Armado) typically involves an armed group prohibiting the movement of vehicles and people in the areas where they operate.

What this means for travelers: The most critical conclusion from this warning is the risk associated with it intercity highway travel. The ELN explicitly warned civilians not to travel on roads and navigable rivers during their operations.

• Avoid the bus: If you plan to travel between cities (for example from Medellin to the Coffee Axis, or Cali to Popayán), don’t take the bus.
• Fly instead: Air travel remains unaffected and is the safest way to travel between regions.
• Stay in the cities: The risk is significantly greater on rural highways and remote roads than within the secure zones of major cities.

The ELN is reportedly most active in the northeast (Arauca, Norte de Santander), the west (Chocó) and the southwest (Cauca, Nariño), although they remain present in popular departments such as AntioquiaBolivar and Valle del Cauca.

The general advice: level 3 (reconsider travel)

In addition to the immediate “armed attack,” travelers should remember that Colombia is currently under severe attack Level 3: Reconsider travel advice from the United States Department of State, issued April 17, 2025.

This advice highlights four specific risk indicators:

• Crime
• Terrorism
• Civil unrest
• Kidnapping

The “Do Not Travel” zones (level 4) Although the country is generally Level 3, the State Department explicitly advises US citizens not for travelling to the following areas due to crime and terrorism:

• Arauca Department
• Cauca Department (excluding the city of Popayán)
• Norte de Santander department
• The border area between Colombia and Venezuela

If you visit Colombia, follow the ‘famous route’ (Bogotá, Medellin, Cartagena, Santa Marta) and flying between them is the most effective way to limit these regional risks.

The ‘invisible’ risk: dating apps and scopolamine

While highway safety is a logistical concern, a more personal danger continues to plague major cities like the city Medellin, Cartagena and Bogotá.

The US Embassy has maintained a high alert status regarding the use of online dating applications.

The danger: Criminal organizations use dating apps to lure victims – usually foreign tourists – to public places such as restaurants, bars or hotels. Once there, the victims are often attacked, robbed and often drugged.

The “devil’s breath” (Scopolamine): There has been a disturbing increase in the number of incidents involving sedative drugs, commonly known as Scopolamine. This drug makes the victim compliant and erases their memory, allowing criminals to empty bank accounts and steal electronics without resistance.

• The statistics: In an earlier alert, the embassy noted eight suspicious deaths among U.S. citizens in Medellin over a two-month period, many related to drugging or suspected murder involving dating apps.
• Underreported crimes: The embassy notes that these crimes are often underreported because the victims are ashamed.

How to stay safe:

• Meet in public: Never invite a stranger to your accommodation or go to theirs on the first meeting.
• Watch your drink: Never leave a drink unattended.
• Tell a friend: Always let someone know where you are going and who you are meeting.
• Trust your feeling: If a situation seems too good to be true, or a date is aggressively trying to persuade you to go to a private location, leave immediately.

The bottom line

Colombia is a beautiful country that can be visited safely, but it requires a higher level of ‘street smarts’ than other destinations.

By avoiding highway travel through red zones, flying between cities, and being extremely careful with nightlife and dating apps, you can sidestep the risks and enjoy what the country has to offer.

Know before you go Before you pack your bags, get our essential information done first 1 minute trip check. In just 60 seconds you can verify the latest entry requirements and security advisories for your specific destination.

Safe travels!