When people think of Colombia, many things come to mind—vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a fascinating mix of history. Yet, often lurking in the back of their minds are concerns about safety, especially for backpackers venturing through the country. These concerns are not entirely unfounded, considering Colombia's history with cartels and civil unrest. But Colombia today is vastly different from the troubled days of the past. In fact, thousands of backpackers like myself have explored the beauty of Colombia safely, discovering a country rich in experiences and warmth. This is not to say I did not meet other travellers with stories of violent encounters and theft including a friend who lost her phone in an unfortunate misplace of trust. However my own experience of Colombia was a breeze from North to South! Some places felt a little 'sketchy' but other places felt like some of the most welcoming (and fun) spots I have been to (Salento and Tatacoa).
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through some of the key cities and regions backpackers tend to visit—Medellín, Bogotá, Salento, Leticia, Cali, Neiva, and more.
I will also be sharing my personal experiences and safety tips. The goal is to arm you with the information you need to confidently explore Colombia while staying vigilant in areas where it’s needed. This is not a scare post and to prove it, here is a picture of me happy as a backpacker can be in the Neiva desert having got there from Medellin as a solo backpackers. Right fellow backpackers lets look at Colombia and its safety, starting with ...
Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring
Medellín, once infamous as the stronghold of Pablo Escobar’s cartel, is now a beacon of progress, often cited as one of the most innovative cities in the world. Locals are proud of how far Medellín has come, and as a backpacker, you'll likely feel welcomed in a city that's thriving with cultural events, modern infrastructure, and a booming digital nomad scene. check out my backpackers travel guide for Colombia where you can find recommendations of things to do and where to stay in Medellin (we are building this out as you read).
Safety in Medellín:
I spent just under 2 weeks here in the region of El Poblado. El Poblado, is the go-to spot for backpackers, with an abundance of hostels, cafes, and bars. It feels very metropolitan, progressive and cool! You will find people relaxing, eating and drinking and of course partying. Having stopped in Viajero, it was almost hard to get my things together and move on as the rooftop hot tubes are really bliss, combined with a cold beer safety is the furthers thing from your mind!
While I felt safe overall, it's worth noting that Medellín still has some high-crime areas, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit, busy streets, especially in neighbourhoods like La Candelaria, the downtown area. The metro system is efficient and safe during the day, and you'll often find friendly locals happy to help you navigate the city.
Fair warning: If you are staying at a hostel, you will likely get involved with a night out there is usually a consistent weekly schedule so be vigilante when you leave which ever club/ pub/ bar you are in and make sure to take a taxi from a reputable (ideally) app booked ride. Don't jump into a vehicle that looks like a taxi outside the door of the club! Actually ... Thats probably a good rule generally when you are on a night out in Colombia!
Is Comuna 13 safe? The best piece of advice I can give you here is, book a walking tour through your hostel or hotel, even if you want to explore comuna 13 on your own ... go with a guide first so you can get the lay of the area. This also gives you the opportunity to talk to the guide (who is usually a local) so you can get tips before heading back on your own. Comuna 13 is largely safe for tourists during the day, but it is a rabbit warren of streets meaning it would not be hard to get lost! At night, you should not be wandering around on your own in Comuna 13.
Medellin Safety statistics (outside of tourism): Medellín has significantly improved its safety, with homicide rates dropping from a peak of 375 per 100,000 people in the early 1990s to around 20 per 100,000 in 2023. Petty crime like pickpocketing, however, remains an issue in crowded areas, so keep your belongings close and don't flash the fancy tech.
Bogotá: Colombia’s Bustling Capital
Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, is a sprawling city that combines colonial charm with urban energy. I found Bogotá to be one of the more intense cities in Colombia, I don't know what it was, however I felt slightly on edge when on my own walking through this city, in a way that I had not felt since passing through San Jose in Costa Rica!
Safety in Bogotá
I stayed in La Candelaria. Fortunately I met a lady in Neiva who worked in the hostel Masaya who said it was a great hostel to stay in and ... she was right! The historical district that’s home to many backpacker hostels and key attractions like the Gold Museum and Plaza Bolívar (literally a 5 minute walk away). Whilst La Candelaria is beautiful, it’s also one of the areas where you need to exercise more caution, especially at night. Stick to walking in groups after dark and avoid wandering into less populated streets. Zona Rosa and Chapinero are other neighbourhoods worth exploring for their nightlife, and they’re generally safer as they are more upscale and have a strong police presence but don't forget about the taxi tip above!
Safety statistics (outside of tourism): Bogotá has made strides in improving safety, but it still has its challenges. The city recorded around 14 homicides per 100,000 people in recent years, down from much higher rates a decade ago. Theft is common, especially phone snatching, so be cautious when using your phone in public places its a case of dont flash the tech again I am afraid! Funnily enough this is one city that I did not take my DSLR out with me to photograph the city because I felt slightly anxious about it!
Salento: The Gateway to the Coffee Region
Salento is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Colombia’s cities. Nestled in the heart of the Coffee Triangle, this small town is the jumping-off point for exploring Valle de Cocora, where you can hike among the towering wax palms. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and take in Colombia’s natural beauty.
Safety in Salento
Honestly, I felt completely safe during my time here. The town is small and easy to navigate, and the locals are incredibly friendly. The main safety concern in Salento is the terrain—you’ll be doing a lot of hiking, so make sure you’re prepared for the conditions. I also recommend starting your hikes early in the day, as the weather can be unpredictable later on. You’ll rarely encounter issues with crime here, making it one of the most peaceful stops on a backpacker’s journey. This is also where you will find the wonderful eco lodge kasaguadua, where you can learn about the eco system of the Andean rainforest, check out our blog post on this below (one of the first I ever wrote but I have updated it since!)
Leticia: Into the Heart of the Amazon
Leticia, located at the southern tip of Colombia, is your gateway to the Amazon Rainforest. This is a destination for the adventurous soul, offering riverboat rides, jungle treks, and opportunities to interact with indigenous communities.
Safety in Leticia
In Leticia, the risks are more about nature than crime. Jungle treks can be unpredictable, so hiring a guide is essential. The town itself is relatively safe, but being a remote border town with Brazil and Peru, it’s wise to be extra cautious, especially when navigating border controls and ensuring that your paperwork is in order. I have written about this in an amazon series of blog posts so please check them search amazon on the home page and they will all pop up for you on the website! Or click on the one below to get an insight into my own thoughts when travelling to the amazon and if it is dangerous.
Cali: Salsa Capital of the World
Cali, known for its salsa dancing, is a city bursting with energy. Cali has a distinct vibe, it's hot, lively, and unapologetically proud of its salsa culture.
Safety in Cali
Cali is a city where I’d advise extra caution especially at night. Cali has a reputation for being one of Colombia's more dangerous cities, particularly in the less affluent areas. However, if you stick to popular tourist areas and take the usual precautions (don’t flash expensive items, be mindful of your surroundings) then you can enjoy your time here without issue. Its one you have to really want to go to though. I would say there is a lot more fun to have in other cities, but many people I spoke to were going simply for things such as dancing courses, which makes perfect sense if you are looking to up your salsa game.
Safety statistics (outside of tourism): Cali has one of the higher crime rates in Colombia, with homicide rates at around 47 per 100,000 people in 2023, but these figures are often linked to gang violence, which rarely affects tourists.
Neiva/ Villavieja/Tatacoa: Off the Beaten Path
Neiva isn’t on every backpacker’s itinerary, but it's a great stopping point if you're heading to the Tatacoa Desert, an otherworldly landscape of red and grey rock formations. This area is far more tranquil compared to Colombia's larger cities and can feel like a 'holiday' from your backpacking.
Safety in Neiva Villavieja and Tatacoa
To be honest ...... there is not much to do in Neiva, I simply used a hostel as a spring board for getting to Villavieja where I spent 5 days! This is not a common thing to do but it was one of the best decision I have made, why? Because there are really few tourists like ... well me! I ended up staying in a family run hotel called Hotel Colonial Villavieja! It has a small pool which I took full advantage of and when not heading into the desert on an a day trip or too stargaze it felt like a little solitary retreat from the entire world! I absolutely loved it! There is one shop and now many places to eat. The locals were super friendly and I felt entirely safe, so wandered about on my own just observing the locals go about there everyday lives in this remote part of Colombia! One day I even spotted the lady who had given me a day tour of the desert, she was at her home so called me over and introduced me to her family! Lovely people, lovely place, it now holds a dear place in my heart.
Apologies for the side track .... Back to safety tips. The primary concern here would be the heat and staying hydrated, especially if you’re heading into the desert. Otherwise, Villavieja is a great place to experience a more authentic side of Colombia, away from the tourist-heavy destinations.
Cartagena: Coastal Charm and History
Cartagena is Colombia's jewel on the Caribbean coast, known for its stunning colonial architecture and lively atmosphere. While it's one of the more touristy cities in Colombia, it still has a lot to offer, especially if you're a fan of history and beaches.
Safety in Cartagena
In terms of safety, Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, especially in the walled city and Bocagrande. However, the beach areas can get crowded, and petty theft is common, so always keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid wandering into poorer neighbourhoods on the outskirts, especially after dark.
Barranquilla: More than Just Carnival
Barranquilla, while best known for its massive Carnival celebrations, offers much more, especially if you're into music and culture. The city has a less touristy feel compared to places like Cartagena, which is both a positive and a challenge in terms of safety.
Safety in Barranquilla
While Barranquilla is relatively safe, it’s best to exercise caution, particularly at night and during large events like Carnival. Stick to central areas and avoid venturing too far off the beaten path. Public transport is widely used, but if you’re travelling late, it’s safer to use a rideshare app or taxi.
General Safety Tips for Backpackers in Colombia
Use Official Transportation: When moving between cities, always use reputable bus companies or flights. Avoid hitchhiking or using unmarked taxis, especially at night.
Blend In: Avoid wearing flashy clothing or jewellery. Keeping a low profile will reduce your chances of becoming a target for petty theft, I think not doing this in Bogota is what made me feel uneasy! I am usually good at blending in but 4 months into backpacking I was looking like a stereotypical backpacker!
Stay Informed: Colombia is a rapidly changing country. Make sure to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and talk to locals or fellow travellers about any recent safety concerns.
Carry Photocopies of Your Documents: Leave your passport in a safe at your accommodation and carry photocopies or digital copies when exploring.
Travel Insurance is a Must: Always have travel insurance that covers theft, accidents, and medical emergencies. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Final Thoughts: Is Colombia Safe for Tourists?
So is Colombia safe for tourists? The simple answer is yes, but with a caveat. Like any country, Colombia has its safer and less safe areas. However, if you stay informed, travel smart, and follow basic safety precautions, you’ll be able to experience the magic of Colombia without incident. Backpackers from all over the world, myself included, have fallen in love with this country. Its diverse landscapes, warm people, and rich culture make it an unforgettable destination.
So embrace the adventure, and don’t let old stereotypes hold you back from exploring one of South America’s most exciting countries. Just remember: stay alert, stay smart, look after your fellow backpacker and above all, enjoy the journey.
Thanks for joining me on this one and let me know in the comments how you found your time in Colombia and if there is anything you feel fellow backpackers and explorers should know about. Cheers. Jack
For the curious explorer
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