bogota tourist safety

Update April 12, 2024

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Colombia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 2, 2024, colombia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to the country summary.

Reconsider travel due to  crime  and  terrorism . Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.  

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.

U.S. direct-hire government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• They are not permitted to travel by road between most cities.
• Colombia’s land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized.
• They may not use motorcycles.
• They may not hail street taxis or use public buses.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Colombia.

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Avoid protest areas and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Colombia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in some parts.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.

Colombia - Venezuela Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela.

The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally.

U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Is Bogotá Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Colombia : Safety by City

• Barranquilla
• Bucaramanga
• Santa Marta

Bogotá is a huge Colombian city, with a population of about 8.8 million people.

La Candelaria is a well-known district where many important historical events took place regarding the Colombian and South American independence.

Some most significant sights are La Catedral, Plaza de Bolivar, Palacio de Nariño, Iglesia del Carmen, among others.

The interesting fact is that in most of the museums you do not need to pay the admission fees.

The city is the hub of most tourism in Colombia and it is in constant growing and development.

• Warnings & Dangers in Bogotá

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

According to the location score in terms of safety in Bogotá, it can be said that standard safety precautions are a necessity. Even though there are no reports of violent crimes against travelers, you should always remain vigilant. There have been a few robberies involving violence and muggers with knives are seen around the city.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Once in Bogotá, make sure you call radio taxis since traveling by the unlicensed one entails many risks. There were dangerous situations with the taxi drivers, when they assaulted the passengers, took their valuables and money. If you realize that you are overcharged, try to get your money back, but do not force them too much, because they tend to become aggressive.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

The crime rate shows that crime is widespread in Bogotá. Street crime including pickpocketing and purse snatching are common on crowded buses and the TransMilenio. Armed robbery is frequent in known tourist areas, like La Candelaria, and they should be avoided after dark. If you're aware of the threat, you will be an unwelcoming target for the lawbreakers.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Bogotá has an increased risk of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Heavy rains may lead to flooding and landslides, which in turn affects the daily flow of transport.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Muggings are on a constant rise in Bogotá, and the often include violence and armory. People who happen to be alone after dark in urban areas are often the targets. Kidnappings o also occur and the usual strategy is to catch the victim in the taxis. If you happen to be the prey of muggers or kidnappers, the most advisable thing to do is to give them money and electronics, since the confrontation may lead to more serious consequences.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Organized crime, like the drug trade, and the attempts of the authorities to stop it is one of the major triggers which can lead to attacks. This means that everyone can become a victim, even though tourists are not the direct target since the attacks usually occur in crowded areas.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Taking into account the fact that taxi drivers always try to trick foreigners and overcharge them, tourists need to practice common sense. Counterfeit money and credit card skimming is also frequent types of scams. There were reports when thieves even acted as police officers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Even though most of the women that visited Bogotá enjoyed their stay without any problems, there are reports of sexual assault against solo female travelers. To avoid being easy prey, women should not wear designer labels and attractive jewelry or expensive camera. They should never look disoriented, even if they are because the lost tourist is a perfect target for thieves.

• So... How Safe Is Bogotá Really?

For most of the vigilant and attentive tourists, this beautiful city is a safe place to visit.

Nevertheless, there is a street crime like theft, pickpocketing, and purse snatching as in any major city.

While in certain areas like Ciudad Bolivar, El Codito, Kennedy and Soacha and Monserrate be aware of the possibility of mugging and theft and try to limit your activities to the daytime.

Considering the fact that Bogotá has become a great tourist destination and one of the most visited cities in Colombia, authorities tend to make Bogotá an even safer and better city for tourist, so the introduction of police patrols during the night and the transport development enable travelers to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and culture in Bogotá without worrying about their safety.

• How Does Bogotá Compare?
• Useful Information

The only documentation that you need when visiting Bogotá for less than 90 days is the valid passport. However, there are countries whose citizens must apply for a visa at the Colombian consulate in their home country. To find out whether you need a visa or not, you can visit certain websites and get all the necessary information.

The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso and tourists can easily exchange money in the exchange offices in Bogotá. Bear in mind that most banks do not exchange money. ATMs are available throughout the city, but it is advisable to use those in shopping centers or inside banks rather than those in the street.

Bogotá has a subtropical highland climate because it is located on a high plateau in the Northern Andes Mountains. This means that it is cool during the day with an average temperature from 6 to 19 °C on sunny days. The rainy season is from May to November.

The major and busiest airport in Bogotá is El Dorado International Airport which is 20 minutes away from the city center by taxi. Other alternative airports when coming to Colombia are José María Córdova International Airport and Rafael Núñez International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance that covers illness or injury, theft and other accidents that may occur during your travels is necessary when traveling abroad. Since coverage depends on the type of insurance that you buy, you should always ask for details when buying it.

Bogotá Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Colombia - Safety by City

Explore bogotá.

• Interesting Facts about Monserrate, Bogota
• What to Do in Bogota to Impress Your Friends?
• Where to Next?

13 Reviews on Bogotá

No terrorism.

About this review: all very honest but drug terrorism. We don’t see that since 80s and now they target specific people because of activism but never tourists. Even being like this, there hasn’t been any terrorism case since the 2000s in Bogotá

Definitely dont go out really after 5pm !! Sounds crazy..last night my son, single traveller decided to venture out at night was subsequent dragged of the street into a bar by a group of people, helped by the bouncer of the bar! Taken to the toilets where he had all his belongings taken ..they managed in get 900$ of his card and wreck up a 90 dollar bar bill.. he had to be rescued from a Columbian friend he was staying with .. Also expierance 2 robberies in public buses within a space of 10 minutes..he says only safe travel is an UBER.. tke a normal taxi and your in trouble .. everyone seems lovely but the truth is they are just out to get as much money out of every way possible

Bogota is awesome! Beautiful and the locals are friendly to tourists. Great city for parties and enjoying nature around the city. highly recommended.

Beautiful BIG City

I have gone to Bogotá twice. Both times I enjoyed my stay. Is it the safest place to travel to? No, but what major city in the world is? There is always a downside. If you are experienced with travel and you know how to protect yourself and your items, there is nothing to worry about. I will be going back in the future.

Affordable and cheap

The locals are actually friendly but be wary of the taxi drivers who want to trick you just because you are a foreigner. Not to generalize all of them, but we encountered a couple when we there, make sure the meter is turned on and be aware of the prices. Price wise, Bogota is affordable and cheap. You don’t need to break bank to enjoy what Bogota has to offer.

I had a lot of fun in Bogota

Bogota is not as unsafe as some make it out to be. We were perfectly safe here on our trip. Of course you need to pay attention to your surroundings and your belongings but that’s the case for any place. Experimental theater is one of the best attractions here and locals are friendly towards tourists.

Colombia in and of itself is not safe. No matter what city. I am not sure what you are on about. I have been all over for work and I have had a number of issues myself. I have seen women being harassed and even hit in public. Sure, the cities have beautiful places but unless you are here often enough, you will not see the bad side.

It can be a nice experience but you need to know a few things

As a tourist and keeping to the tourist path things can be nice and safe in Bogota. But if you stay here long enough and start venturing out of the regular, tourists routes then you will inevitably start to see the bad part of this city. Pickpockets are just the start. You need to protect your purse and phone at all times as these are the easiest things they will try to steal.

Muggings happen here, in some areas that you should avoid anyway and especially during the night. During the night, the city is very dangerous in non-tourist areas but I would avoid doing things alone during night time no matter the area. You might be fine if you do but bad things do tend to happen at night so why not be smart about it?

There is also counterfeit money running around and sometimes it’s hard to spot it. Taxi drivers (not all) can be aggressive in their language and even physically and will try to overcharge for most fares. Also be careful about credit card skimming as it happens here a lot. Not trying to scare you off but it’s better to know what you may encounter if you come to Bogota.

This is a beautiful place, with a lot to see but some people in it are bad and only want to steal from you. Paying close attention to your surroundings, going in groups of at least 3-4 and never with just women in the group – all of this will make things a lot safer here.

One of the first things I like to do when I get to a new place is to take a free walking tour with a guide. This lets me see the city and learn more about it from my guide. I will often ask about the good, the bad and the ugly and learn a lot and this is true for Bogota as well. This is invaluable if you ask me.

Do this in every city you visit and you will gain a wealth of knowledge about that place.

Be Very Careful in Bogots 2022

You MUST watch out in Bogota, even in “nice” residential areas. Street crime is ever-present and increasing. Robbery with knives is rampant, even during the day. If you see 2 men on a motorcycle (or even 2 motorcycles with 2 men on each like happened to us), you’re about to get robbed. Carry a dummy wallet. Don’t wear jewelry. If you show your cellphone, you’re a target. Walk on the sidewalk facing on-coming traffic so you don’t get surprised from behind. Be vigilant. NOWHERE is safe. Walking at night is NOT recommended. Call for taxi’s or use Uber. I’ve been coming to Bogota since 2013. The city has definitely devolved since then.

Attention Fox

As a colombian, I must warn everyone of the dangers of Colombia. As a tourist you will always stand out, do not try to camouflage among locals, you look like a fly in milk. It is a very messy country and everyone looks out for themselves. So you must be cautious and cunning. The police are useless, and outside the hotel you are on your own. It’s real: millionaire ride in a taxi or uber, pills in the drink, robbery with scopolamine, pickpocketing with a dagger is a national sport. It is real. Attention to those who are looking for other types of “experiences” because it can be quite expensive, I mean those who asks for hallucinogenic drugs, they always are cheated with some kind of oregano grass or a drug soup that contains even caffeine, without saying that can lose (even the kidney). If you go in your plan and stick to it and go to tourist places, you will surely meet friendly and cordial people.

wow, what real ambassador Jorge. Yes, there are a lot of issues, nobody can deny it, but not every visitor will experience that level of hostility. I have traveled the world myself, I have seen a lot, I had spent years in Colombia too and definitively, I still have my two kidneys 🙂

Proceed with Caution

As a female expat who has lived here for the past two years, I would say that this is one of the more honest reviews of what Bogotá is like.

It is frustrating to read other reviews that seem to gloss over the very present dangers here. I am from the UK and have lived abroad (mostly in Asia) for the past ten years and moving here regarding being “street-smart” was a real eye-opener for me. You DO and MUST be aware here of the dangers; these can happen in the daytime (especially around Trans Milenio stations and La Candelaria) and most definitely at night and you must not walk anywhere as a female here after sundown. Sadly mugging with guns has become more of an issue and I know at least 5 people, including women coming out of the gym in the north who have been mugged this way.

The most common type of theft on the street seems to be of mobile phones and bikes. Regarding handbags you must wear a cross-body bag and you should conceal cards and larger notes – theft from restaurants is common (again this happened to me while I was living in Cedritos in the north). If you are renting an apartment here you must be aware of scams from landlords withholding substantial money for normal “wear and tear” (my landlord for example insisted on the entire apartment being repainted after I’d stayed just 6 months – also she withheld my deposit and charged for the months that I didn’t stay up to the one year). Be aware also of problems with glass shower doors – the difference in temp between the hot air created by the shower and the cold of outside can cause these doors to smash – this happened to me and I had 15 stitches, luckily in my lower leg rather than an artery – the doctor said I was the 5th person she’d treated with the same injuries or worse – and if this happens you are liable for the damage not the landlord.

I also had a burglary of my home in “upscale and safe” neighborhood of Chico and when I tried to get it investigated by the police and wanted my building to check the cctv – I found they only had one camera in the whole building above the front door which was already manned by a guard and so nothing to prevent or protect you from any crimes from within the building. My landlord had also not provided any safe for my 6 month air bnb stay. Regarding Candelaria for women planning to stay here alone – avoid it. The costs are lower for a reason. I booked a 3 week stay just around the corner to Parque los Periodistas and yes there’s lots of nice cafes in the day but likewise a huge amount of extremely shifty individuals- and after dark the roads here are dangerous.

Compared to the north where I lived there is a definite lower amount of police and drugs are consumed in the open even during the day and I have never seen a policeman intervene with them. The effects of this on people can be quite shocking if you haven’t seen this before. Regarding open areas in La Candelaria, if I was alone or with another western-looking woman I wouldn’t feel safe walking around and I order taxis from Uber/cabify directly from my building door. In cabs also when you get in be careful to check the doors are locked – I had a drug addict physically shake the doors of the taxi I was in trying to steal my handbag.

Also be aware while traveling in taxis of scams involving motorcycles “crashing” into your car – this can be a way to get rich-looking taxi clients to get out to help only to be robbed – this also happened to me with my boyfriend and luckily our driver screamed for us to get back in the car as he had experienced this just the week before. My advice is to always look confident, never take your phone out on the street, avoid if you can bad areas or go with a Colombian and never wear anything that appears flashy or makes you stand out.

If you live here it’s important not to mention where you live online and not to mention valuables that you might own – get a safe and cameras installed if you can. All this is such a shame because Bogotá is such an amazing and interesting place and the people generally are wonderful but it is important that visitors are aware of massive social inequalities here and need, remain vigilant and aware at all times. sadly, with a lack of proper information for travellers, a lot of visitors here put themselves unknowingly at great risk and the dangers here are very real and should not be tested.

I was mugged

I was on vacation with my wife when 2 men came and held a knife ordering us to hand over our phones and wallets, seriously, this place needs better police.

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Article Contents

• Bogotá : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Bogota Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Bogota, Colombia in 2024?

Planning a trip to Colombia and wondering, "Is Bogota safe?" Despite its history, Bogota is now a vibrant metropolis full of culture, art, and food.

Safety in Bogota has significantly improved over the years, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Colombian experience. However, like any major city, it's wise to stay informed and take precautions. Let's dive into what you need to know to enjoy Bogota safely and confidently.

Key Takeaways

• Bogota has significantly improved its safety measures, making it a vibrant destination for cultural, culinary, and artistic experiences, challenging outdated perceptions with its current reality.
• Recent statistics illustrate a notable decrease in crime rates, including homicides and violent crimes, due to enhanced police presence and community efforts, making Bogota comparable in safety to other major global cities.
• Innovative safety measures, like the addition of over 1,500 CCTV cameras and specialized tourist police units, alongside public transportation improvements, have substantially contributed to making Bogota safer for both residents and tourists.
• Travelers can further ensure their safety by practicing street smarts, utilizing trusted transportation methods, staying in well-lit areas at night, engaging with local authorities, checking travel advisories, and connecting with locals for a more secure visit.
• Bogota offers a rich cultural experience, from the must-visit Gold Museum and Botero Museum to its vibrant street art and cultural festivals, highlighting the city's resilience, creativity, and rich heritage, which are essential to explore for an authentic Colombian experience.

Understanding Bogota's Safety Perception

When you're planning your trip to Bogota, Colombia, understanding the city's safety perception is crucial. Over the years, Bogota has made significant strides in shedding its reputation from the 1980s and 90s as a city plagued by violent crime. Today's Bogota tells a different story , one of cultural renaissance and safety improvements that beckon travelers from around the globe.

It's essential to look at the data to get a clear picture of Bogota's safety landscape. Recent statistics show a promising decline in crime rates, making it comparable to other major cities worldwide. For instance:

This table illustrates a significant improvement, especially in the context of violent crimes and homicides. Yet, it's also crucial to understand the perception of safety isn't solely based on numbers. The collective effort of local authorities and the community to foster a safe environment plays a massive part in changing the narrative.

Tourists now enjoy a much safer Bogota with increased police presence in high-traffic areas and initiatives aimed at reducing street crime. The city's investment in security infrastructure and social programs contributes to a safer, more welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike.

However, like any major city, maintaining a sense of awareness and caution is essential while exploring. Popular tourist areas are generally safe during the day, but it's advisable to be more cautious at night and avoid certain neighborhoods known for higher crime rates.

By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you'll find that Bogota offers a rich tapestry of experiences with a level of safety that parallels many top travel destinations. Its vibrant streets, filled with art, culture, and culinary delights, are now more accessible than ever, reshaping the city's safety perception on the global stage.

Safety Improvements in Bogota

In recent years, Bogota has seen significant strides toward improving public safety , reflecting a dedicated effort to change its reputation and ensure both residents and visitors feel secure. A combination of policy reforms, technological advancements, and community policing has played a pivotal role in this transformation.

Decrease in Crime Rates

The data speaks volumes about Bogota's commitment to safety. Consider the following statistics:

This downward trend extends beyond homicides, encompassing theft and assault, illustrating a broader enhancement in safety.

Innovative Safety Measures

Bogota's approach to improving safety has been multifaceted:

• Increased Surveillance : Deployment of over 1,500 new CCTV cameras across the city enhancing the ability to monitor and respond to incidents in real time.
• Community Policing : Strengthened ties between the police and local communities have led to better reporting, quicker response times, and a trust-building exercise that's crucial for a safer urban environment.
• Tourist Police : Special units focused on areas with high tourist footfall, ensuring you always have assistance nearby should you need it.

Public Transport Safety Initiatives

The city hasn't overlooked the importance of safety in transit, implementing "Safe Routes" for pedestrian and new measures to protect users of the TransMilenio, Bogota's bus rapid transit system. Enhanced lighting, increased police presence, and emergency response protocols in transit stations ensure that moving around the city is safer than ever.

In integrating these measures, Bogota has not only made significant progress toward eradicating its once-notorious image but also positioned itself as a model for urban safety renewal. As you navigate the bustling streets and vibrant neighborhoods of Bogota, the evidence of this transformation is clear, inviting you to explore all that the city has to offer with renewed confidence in your safety.

Tips for Staying Safe in Bogota

Traveling to Bogota can be an exhilarating experience, but ensuring your safety is paramount. Here's how you can navigate the city with confidence.

Be Street Smart Bogota is bustling and, like any major city, has its share of petty crime. Keep your belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics that could attract unwanted attention.

Use Trusted Transportation Opt for official taxis or reputable ride-sharing services when getting around. The city has worked hard to improve safety in public transportation, with initiatives like the "Safe Routes" in the TransMilenio system significantly reducing incidents. Here are some quick facts:

Stay in Well-Lit Areas at Night Bogota's nightlife is vibrant, but safety should be your priority. Stick to well-lit, populated paths and always walk in groups if possible. Districts like Zona T and Parque 93 are known for their safer environments and active nightlife.

Engage with Local Authorities The city’s investment in safety is evident through its specialized tourist police units and increased surveillance in key areas. Don’t hesitate to approach the tourist police if you need assistance or feel unsafe at any point.

Check Travel Advisories Stay updated with your embassy or consulate’s travel advisories. They provide real-time information and can be a reliable resource in case of emergencies.

Connect with Locals Engaging with locals can enrich your travels and provide inside knowledge on navigating the city safely. Many Bogotanos are welcoming and can offer advice on areas to avoid or local safety tips.

Remember, your safety in Bogota largely depends on your precautions and awareness. By following these tips, you’re setting yourself up for a memorable and secure visit to one of Colombia’s most dynamic cities.

Cultural Experiences in Bogota

When you're exploring Bogota, immersing yourself in its rich cultural tapestry is not just recommended; it's essential. The city is a vibrant hub of history, art, and tradition, pulsating with life and color at every corner. From world-renowned museums to street art that tells the story of a nation, Bogota offers a cultural experience like no other.

The Gold Museum stands out as a must-visit. Housing over 34,000 pieces of gold and 20,000 objects from various pre-Hispanic cultures in Colombia, this museum showcases the largest collection of its kind worldwide. The artifacts narrate Colombia's indigenous history, offering a glimpse into the lives and philosophies of its ancient peoples.

Equally compelling is the Botero Museum , dedicated to Fernando Botero, Colombia's most famous artist. Here, you'll find over 120 of his works, alongside pieces from his personal collection, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Matisse. It's a testament to Colombia's deep appreciation for the arts, both local and international.

For those who wish to delve deeper into Bogota’s cultural heartbeat, the street art scene cannot be overlooked. In neighborhoods like La Candelaria and Chapinero, walls and buildings become canvases, telling stories of social justice, peace, and community. Local and international artists contribute to this ongoing narrative, making Bogota a living gallery of contemporary social commentary.

Bogota’s cultural festivals are another vibrant aspect of its cultural landscape. The Ibero-American Theater Festival , one of the largest theater festivals globally, brings together performers and spectators from around the world. Similarly, the Rock al Parque festival draws music lovers in droves, showcasing both local and international rock bands.

Each of these experiences not only enriches your understanding of Bogota but also connects you to its heart and soul. Engaging with the city’s culture is a testament to Bogota’s resilience, creativity, and rich heritage.

Bogota's transformation into a safer, more vibrant city is undeniable. By staying street smart, using trusted transportation, and engaging with the community, you're set to explore its wonders with confidence. The significant drop in pickpocketing incidents on the TransMilenio and the city's commitment to safety should reassure any traveler. Remember, immersing yourself in Bogota's culture—from its world-renowned museums to the lively street art and festivals—will not only enrich your travel experience but also connect you to the heart of Colombia. So pack your bags, keep these tips in mind, and get ready to discover the beauty and resilience of Bogota.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bogota safe for tourists.

Bogota has made significant strides in improving safety for tourists. Utilizing trusted transportation and staying in well-lit areas at night are key tips. Engaging with local authorities and staying informed through travel advisories can further enhance your security.

What transportation is recommended in Bogota?

Official taxis and ride-sharing services are highly recommended in Bogota. The TransMilenio system is also a safe public transport option, noted for its reduced pickpocketing incidents by 60%.

What are the must-visit places in Bogota?

The Gold Museum and the Botero Museum are must-visit attractions in Bogota. Exploring the vibrant street art in neighborhoods like La Candelaria and Chapinero will further enrich your visit.

How can I immerse in the local culture of Bogota?

To truly immerse in Bogota’s local culture, participate in its cultural festivals such as the Ibero-American Theater Festival and Rock al Parque. Connecting with locals and exploring the city's rich street art scene are also great ways to experience the local vibe.

Can I engage with local authorities for safety tips?

Yes, engaging with local authorities is highly recommended for safety tips and to stay updated on any travel advisories. They can provide valuable insights and support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Bogota.

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Is Bogota Safe Right Now? 11 Tips for Travelers

When people hear that I’ve traveled to Colombia many times, they ask me, is Colombia safe to travel to? 

I've taken multiple trips to Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, and the Colombian island of San Andres. I found them all safer than their reputations make them out to be.

I just had a fantastic trip to Bogota, so here is what you need to know about safety in Bogota.

Is Bogota Safe Right Now?

Traveling to Bogota is safe, but you should stick to the right neighborhoods and use heightened safety precautions just like you would in New York or London. While Colombia has a poor reputation for security, my wife and I felt perfectly safe traveling with our three-year-old. We had a female driver named Sandra, who assured us that wherever we visited was safe.

Petty theft, pickpocketing, and muggings do happen to tourists in Colombia, but with basic safety precautions, travelers can avoid them. The Colombian expression you’ll hear frequently is “ no dar la papaya ” which basically means, don’t show your valuables. 

The rule of thumb in any big city should be to keep fancy jewelry at home, carry your bag in front of you in crowded places, don't hang an expensive camera around your neck, and if you take your phone out, take a quick photo and put it away. Keep your eyes and ears open, and don’t wear headphones in the street.

There was a significant police presence in Bogota and a lot of security guards with dogs, which I found reassuring. Look out for the "CAI" booths throughout the city where the police are stationed. I brought my daughter to the playground each morning and was happy to see one of these booths just a stone's throw away.

What neighborhoods are safe to travel to in Bogota?

In general, the northern part of Bogota is known as the safe area, while the south is known for not being safe. The neighborhoods with the best reputation for safety are:

• Zona T / Zona Rosa- an upscale area with shopping and nightlife
• Usaquén- another upscale area 
• Chapinero- a bohemian area with great food
• Teusaquillo- a financial area with lots of green spaces
• Candelaria- the cultural center of Bogota, but be careful at night

What activities are safe in Bogota? What should I do while in Bogota?

Our favorite activity in Bogota was visiting La Candelaria , the cultural and historic hub of the city. Colonial architecture makes me feel like I went back in time. We went to La Candelaria on a Sunday, and the narrow sidewalks were sprawling with Colombian people enjoying the day. I don't love crowds, and pushing a stroller through cobblestone streets was a bit stressful. Our driver advised us to carry our bags in front of us.

We loved hanging out in Plaza Chorro de Quevedo, but I didn't let my eye off my daughter for a second. Here, we saw street performers, storytellers, street vendors, and local artisans. “El Chorro” was the birthplace of Bogota, and there are many little cafes where you can sit outside and people-watch.

My wife loves to shop, and the prices in Colombia are very affordable for high-quality goods. Colombia is known for fashion, and they take their malls seriously. I’m not a mall person, but visiting them is an excellent way to see what life is like while traveling to a new country. If you want to see upscale Bogota, visit El Andino .

Bogota also has excellent markets with varying safety profiles, so ask around. Sandra kept pushing us to go to the flea market on Sunday. She also offered to bring us to buy leather and emeralds , but she said we needed to be more careful if we went to the neighborhoods where we could get the best prices.

I took my daughter solo up Monserrate and was pleased she had no issue with the altitude. She loved visiting "Virgin Mary's Castle," as she called the Sanctuary of Monserrate church. We felt very safe the whole time. We rode the funicular up and the gondola down. The well-trafficked trail is safe as long as you go at a time when other people will be hiking. They say the trail is well marked, but people do get lost in the jungle if they venture off it.

We are not religious, but my daughter loves visiting churches. We entered several beautiful cathedrals, including the Cathedral Metropolitan Basilica of Bogotá in Plaza de Bolivar , Iglesia de San Francisco , and Our Lady of Candelaria . Churches are a great place to step out of the crowds for solace in a big city like Bogota. 

There are also a bunch of museums to visit in Bogota, including the Botero Museum , Museo de Oro (Gold Museum) , and the National Museum. I also would have loved to see the Botanical Gardens.  

Next time I come, I will be sure to get outside of Bogota and visit el Catedral de Sal in Zipaquirá , La Chorrera Waterfall , Laguna de Guatavita (Lake Guatavita) , and the colonial town of Villa de Leyva.

What is the safest way to get around Bogota?

I felt safe walking during the day in Bogota, especially in Zona T, Zona Rosa, El Andino, and the upscale areas where we stayed in Bogota. Be vigilant in the crowds of La Canalderia, Plaza Bolivar, and Plaza Chorro de Quevedo. 

Public transportation is available in Bogota via the TransMilenio bus system , but I’ve heard mixed reviews on safety. 

We drove around with our driver, Sandra, in a " placa blanca ," a basic white sedan we arranged with our hotel. I don’t mind throwing my kid in the back of a taxi for short rides, but I prefer to spend the money on a driver who waits for us with our car seat. If you want to spend on luxuries, Colombia is a great place to do it. Sandra drove us one day from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm for less than $100.

Be careful in taxis and always negotiate your price before you get in. Uber is a better option for safety.

Should I be concerned with the altitude when traveling to Bogota? 

The main thing that people struggle with in Bogota is the altitude. Bogota sits at 8,660 feet (2,640 meters). While Bogota sits lower than Quito, Cusco, and La Paz, it is significantly higher than Denver. I exercised each day I was there and felt more out of breath than usual.

I trained with a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt while I was there and admittedly felt like puking :) 

I recommend getting acclimated for a day or two before engaging in vigorous exercise, especially if you plan to hike Cerro Monserratte at 10,341 feet (3,152 meters).

If you really want to experience altitude, I’d suggest going to Peru’s Rainbow Mountains where I’ve hiked to 17,060 feet (5,200 meters).

Are there natural disasters in Bogota?

Earthquakes occasionally occur in Bogota, but the risk profile for hurricanes and volcanic eruptions is low.

One nice thing about Bogota is that because of the altitude, you don’t have to worry about mosquito-borne viruses like dengue, malaria, and yellow fever, like you do in other parts of Colombia.

Is there ever political unrest in Bogota?

Colombia's history and political landscape are complicated, so it's not uncommon for there to be a good protest. Protesting in Latin America is quite common. My rule of thumb is if I see people rallying or marching, I turn around and go in the other direction. While it can be interesting to see what people are protesting about or striking for, any type of civil unrest can turn violent, no matter where you are.

Because of the dicey relationship with guerrilla groups in the country, there is a risk of terrorism, but it's not one that I'd be overly concerned about. I feel that the threat of terrorism in Colombia is much lower than in Paris, Washington D.C., Madrid, etc. You can read more about this conflict from the US Department of State, but most of what you will read about happens deep in the interior of Colombia.

Do I have to worry about cartels, gangs, etc. in Colombia?

People forget that the events depicted in shows like Narcos happened 30+ years ago. In short, you shouldn't have to worry about these things in the main tourist areas of Bogota. As an aside, in Medellín, I visited Comuna 13, a neighborhood known for narco-trafficking, and the locals told me that it's now one of the safest places you can be in all of Colombia.

Again, as a good traveler, look confident and keep your head on a swivel.

If you are going to Bogota for sex tourism or to do cheap drugs, you are asking for trouble. Reconsider your life decisions.

Is the nightlife safe for travelers in Bogota?

As a traveler you should use heightened awareness in places like La Candelaria or Parque 93 at night. What does this mean?

• Don't get too drunk.
• Use the buddy system, especially if you are a solo female traveler.
• Take an Uber wherever you go. They are a lot safer than taxis.
• Don't accept drinks from strangers; bottled beer is the safest drink you can order. Watch the bartender open it.

Should you travel to Bogota?

I couldn't recommend traveling to the country of Colombia more! 

Colombia has a vibrant culture, and I found Bogota to be one of the most authentic places I've visited in Colombia. Unlike Medellin and Cartagena de Indias, I only saw a few international tourists in Bogota. I like feeling off the beaten path, so this was a massive plus.

Further reading:  15 Dos and Don'ts While Traveling in Medellin, Colombia

If your time in Colombia is limited, prioritize Medellin, Cartagena, and Santa Marta, especially if you are looking for warm, sunny weather.  You can expect it to be cool, cloudy, and sometimes rainy in Bogota.

The safety advice I’d give about traveling to these cities would be very similar to what I say here about Bogota.

I loved my time as a digital nomad in Medellín . 

Should I buy travel insurance in Colombia?

Things can go wrong anywhere in the world, so I always suggest buying travel insurance to protect you from trip interruptions, lost or stolen luggage, and medical expenses. 

The first time I was in Medellin, I had food poisoning, and a doctor needed to make a house call. Although the doctor’s visit and the drugs she prescribed me were affordable, it’s nice to be reimbursed for unforeseen circumstances.

For travel insurance, I recommend Wanderwell , SafetyWing , and World Nomads .

Are group trips to Colombia safe?

Traveling in a group is the safest way to travel. There is always strength in numbers, and even better when you have a local guide paid to bring you to the safest off-the-beaten-path locations. You can think of your guide as a local friend who accompanies and looks out for you.

Under30Experiences runs group trips for young people ages 21-35 to Colombia . You'll visit Medellin, Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Tayrona National Park deep in the jungle. I helped handpick this itinerary, so I highly recommend you come make friends and see the world!

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Is Bogota Colombia Safe? Guide To A Safe Travel in 2024

Is Bogota Colombia safe? If you plan to travel to Colombia and consider swinging by this city, this is the one question you would ask. Here are some travel safety tips to remember if you visit one of the cities in a South American country.

If you are fond of arts, history, and culture, your travel itinerary to the Republic of Colombia won’t be complete without a trip to Bogotá . However, the temptation to view the scenic sights or explore the numerous museums and galleries can drown under worries over your safety as a traveler.

Colombia has a notorious past: internal armed conflict, drug trafficking, terrorism, homicides, access to weapons, and violent crimes, but the country has come a long way since then. It has progressed on the socio-political and economic front as the Colombian government has strived to restore peace. Still, its past reputation lingers, so the world remains apprehensive about safety issues. 

Like other tourists, you may be concerned about how safe the Colombian capital is and wondering if visiting the city during your South American trip is the right decision. Continue reading this article to learn how safe Bogotá is and what safety aspects you need to consider when visiting.

Table of Contents

Safety in Bogotá Colombia

While Colombia still ranks very low on the Global Peace Index, tourism flourishes. The country is rapidly gaining popularity as the most attractive tourist destination in South America. 

With tourism growing at a phenomenal pace, Bogotá seems to be receiving the biggest share. You may be surprised to know that Bogotá alone accounts for 56% of the tourism in Colombia. The percentage alone is sufficient to establish that the majority perceives Bogotá as a fairly safe city from a tourist point of view. 

At the same time, we cannot say that visitors are not exposed to harm. Although the city has a lower crime rate than Indianapolis, as a foreigner, you must always be careful and alert and take the necessary precautions in all instances. 

Petty crimes like robberies, mugging, or pickpocketing are common, so it is important to safeguard your travel documents and belongings. Put them in a safe place, preferably in your accommodation. Do not go out with your passport; keep a copy with you if necessary. 

Similarly, tricksters often resort to spiking the drinks of naive tourists, increasing the risk of scams and robbery. While the city has its tourist police, you must practice caution as there is always the risk of the police engaging in extortion.

Various areas in the city are not considered secure, so we will be providing detailed travel tips on how you can explore the beautiful city of Bogotá and stay safe.

What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Bogotá, Colombia?

While traveling to another country or city, it is important to research which areas would be safe to stay in. The city is also prone to strikes and protests, which you want to avoid as a tourist. 

Therefore, you need to steer away from such places and be aware of which areas of the city you must avoid and which areas are considered the safest neighborhoods.

Which Areas to Avoid

Generally, Bogotá’s east and north regions are considered safe for tourists. However, as you move towards the south, the area becomes riskier. 

Here are some areas you need to avoid.

Ciudad Bolívar

The Ciudad Bolívar residential area is also located towards the south and is considered to be an unsafe area for tourists. Robbery and petty thefts are common, and the area is also prone to flooding post torrential rains during the rainy season. So, if you want to avoid the risk and inconvenience, stay away from this region.

La Candelaria

Although it is the city center and features most of the city’s tourist attractions, it is also notorious for crimes and pickpocketing. If you are in La Candelaria , be wary of your surroundings and take care of your possessions, especially in crowded places. It is better to leave valuables safely locked where you are staying.

San Cristobal 

San Cristobal is also known for crimes, so if you want to explore the area, move with the company and opt for guided tours when you can.

Calle 9 

It is also advised to avoid the street of Calle 9 as muggers are lurking around, keeping an eye out for naive travelers. Another similar area we recommend avoiding is the southern part of Barrio Egipto.

It is also important to consider that there is safety in numbers, especially when venturing out at night. An area that seems friendly during the day can turn hostile at night, so it is better to move around in groups.

Let’s look at some of the best neighborhoods in Bogotá regarding safety.

Safest Places in Bogotá

Teusaquillo.

If you are visiting Bogotá for the first time, Teusaquillo is highly recommended. Not only is it quite safe and tranquil, but it is also centrally located, enabling easy access to the other regions. 

The area is home to a beautiful botanical garden and the biggest public park in Bogotá, Simon Bolívar Park. You can stroll around or spend a peaceful afternoon in the garden, and if you are in the mood to explore, Tuesaquillo serves as the ideal base to explore the rest of the city.

The Zona Rosa region in Bogotá is popular for its vibrant and exciting nightlife . Numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs offer great food and drinks with music and dancing. While the region comes alive at night, police are present to ensure the safety of the tourists at all times, and you can party away without any major safety concerns.

You will find most tourists and locals in Zona T, the pedestrian-friendly area of Zona Rosa. The Zona T offers the best options if you want a wild night out and enjoy the nightlife in Colombia . 

Moreover, the area also features two of the biggest malls in Colombia, Atlantis, and Adino. So, if you are in the mood for some shopping, you know where to go.

The next neighborhood we recommend for staying in Bogotá is Chapinero . This centrally located area is diverse, trendy, and safe, and most ex-pats prefer to stay here. You can set your base here and explore other parts of the city. You will find an incredible mix of people moving around Chapinero and feel at home. 

You can get great tourism advice and important insights by seeking the perspective of the ex-pats residing in the area. Chapinero is home to plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants, clubs, and theaters, so you will not be short of options even if you explore the nearby sights. 

Is Bogotá, Colombia Safe for Solo Travelers?

Rest assured, Bogotá is completely safe for solo travelers as long as you’re alert and ready at all times.

Many tourists like to travel alone as they enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with flying solo. You are the manager of your time and can go anywhere you like. You may also enjoy exploring new places, developing your own perspectives, and meeting new people. 

The downside is that you have no one to rely on, so you need to exercise caution. 

Since safety is always an important concern when you visit Colombia , we have provided helpful tips to make your journey easier as a solo traveler. 

• We have mentioned the safest neighborhoods in the previous section. So, before deciding where to stay, do a bit of research to understand the security situation and choose the best possible location from a safety point of view.
• Take care of your personal possessions , particularly your wallet, cell phone, and passports, and stick to safe areas, especially at night. Keep a credit card safely tucked away for emergency purposes.
• Learn your way around the area you are staying in so you know how to get back to your lodgings; otherwise, you can always take a cab. 
• Get information from locals . The people working at the hotels and hostels know exactly how you can explore while staying safe. Be updated on current travel advisories and area alerts, if available.
• Although you are traveling alone, make it a point to interact with the people at your hostel or hotel and socialize when possible so you have a safety net.
• Keep your emergency contacts listed on your phone as priority numbers , so they can be contacted if something happens to you. 

Tips to Stay Safe in Bogotá Colombia

Bogotá has so much to offer regarding tourist attractions, and the associated safety concerns should not deter you from visiting the city. So, if you want to visit Bogotá and explore it while staying safe, here are some useful tips.

• Choose a safe area to stay in and ensure that your hostel offers sufficient security.
• Avoid venturing out into deserted areas or parts considered unsafe for tourists. Always walk in well-lit places.
• Try to blend in and avoid standing out. Do not flaunt your expensive accessories. These items will only make you an easy target.
• Avoid using your smartphone in public . Keep some cash in a wallet in your pocket and keep the rest in a pouch attached to your belt.
• Do not resist and hand over what they ask if you encounter robbers. You never know when they may get violent.
• Keep a colored copy of your passport with you and keep the original one in the locker where you are staying.
• Try to use an ATM only in places like malls and banks . Do not use external ATMs at night.
• Do not leave your food unattended , especially when traveling alone. Someone might take advantage of your absence and try to drug you.
• Learn your way around the city and navigate the routes to avoid getting lost. For your trip, it is always a good idea to learn a little of the local language , in this case, Spanish.
• Avoid getting involved with drugs or other bad activities as they may land you in trouble.

Stay Safe on The Road

Concerned about the possibility of illness, scams, robbery, and cancellations while traveling? It’s crucial to get travel insurance to ensure that if an unfortunate event does occur, you can cover your losses. I always have travel insurance whenever I leave home.

For digital nomads and long-term travelers,  SafetyWing  provides convenient and cost-effective plans that are tailored to their specific needs. With their budget-friendly monthly plans, excellent customer service, and user-friendly claims process, it’s an ideal solution for individuals on the move.

To get a quote right away, utilize the widget provided below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Is Bogotá Colombia Safe? 

Is it safe to visit bogotá, colombia.

Bogotá is the safest city in Latin America, and you can visit it while being cautious and taking the required preventive measures.

Which Neighborhood Is the Safest in Bogotá, Colombia?

The regions including Zona Rosa, Chapinero, and Teusaquillo are considered the safest neighborhoods in Bogotá, Colombia.

Is Bogotá Colombia Safe at Night?

It is better to exercise extra caution at night and avoid going out alone as Bogotá becomes relatively less safe at night.

Is Bogotá Colombia Safe For Solo Travelers?

Yes, Bogotá is safe for solo travelers, provided you are careful and take care to adhere to all safety tips provided in the article.

Conclusion – Is Bogotá Colombia Safe? 

Yes, Bogota is fairly safe despite its infamous security history. It is actually considered the safest city on the South American continent.

As traveling goes, it always pays to be cautious and mindful of your surroundings, especially in a foreign country where language can be a barrier and unfamiliar culture can, sometimes, blindside you. Do your research and plan your itinerary sensibly. 

Remember, basic precautions apply, but don’t let safety consciousness take the fun out of your Bogota experience. Have a fun and safe trip!

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

Skyscanner is my trusted ally for booking flights, guiding me to the perfect travel options while making the journey planning process a breeze with its user-friendly interface and extensive search capabilities.

12Go Asia is my ultimate travel companion in Asia, offering the best budget service platform for seamless booking of trains, buses, ferries, and flights, ensuring every adventure unfolds smoothly and effortlessly.

Booking.com is my ultimate lodging partner. It offers many accommodations worldwide and simplifies my travel experiences with its user-friendly platform and unbeatable deals.

Get Your Guide is my go-to for personalized travel experiences, enriching my journeys with unique tours and activities curated to my interests, making every adventure unforgettable and tailored to my preferences.

SafetyWing is my peace of mind on the go, offering comprehensive travel medical insurance with affordable plans and hassle-free claims, ensuring I can explore the world worry-free, knowing I’m protected wherever I roam.

LifeStraw Go Bottle is my trusted hydration companion for outdoor adventures, filtering water on-the-go to keep me safe and hydrated, ensuring every hike or travel experience is worry-free and enjoyable.

Related Reads:

• 30+ Things to Do in Medellin Colombia
• Is Cali Colombia Safe?
• 30+ Things to Do in Cali Colombia

Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter

Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents. Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University. Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.

Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.

Is Bogota Safe? 11 Important Tips For Travelers In 2024

Is Bogota safe for travelers? This is a question that many people ask before they visit Colombia’s capital city. But the answer is not always black and white.

Millions of tourists visit Colombia’s capital per year, and while many of them do not experience any safety issues, some do. Generally speaking, Bogota can be safe for tourists, but that is only if they know what to expect and follow specific safety principles.

Bogota definitely does not have a good reputation when it comes to safety, but the Colombian government has put the utmost effort into keeping tourists safe. While the crime rate in Bogota has certainly lowered, Bogota can still be dangerous. In fact, Colombia has been ranked 140 out of 163 in terms of safety for 2023 .

But if you want to visit this vibrant city with tons of history and incredible dynamics, there are ways to do it more safely. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite personal tips for staying safe in Bogota and how you can enjoy your trip to the country’s capital city!

Planning A Trip To Bogota Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended airport transfer to Bogota:

• Bogota: 1-Way Private Transfer from/to El Dorado Airport (SUPER cheap!!)

Our recommended tours in Bogota:

• Bogota: Daily Group Tour of the Salt Cathedral Zipaquira (Our favorite tour in Bogota!)
• Bogotá: El Paraíso Favela Tour with Cable Car (SUPER Unique Experience!)
• Bogota: Food Discovery Tour (For foodies!)

Our recommended places to stay in Bogota:

• Sonesta Hotel Bogotá (Luxurious and affordable!)
• bs Rosales Hotel (AMAZING value-for-money)
• Trip Monkey Zona G (Perfect and safe for backpackers)

History Of Crime and Safety In Bogota

Bogota and Colombia are known for their long history of crime and safety issues. The city has been plagued by violence from the FARC terrorist group and the drug cartels , which made it one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Kidnappings and murders weren’t uncommon back in the day.

However, Colombia has taken a positive step in the direction of safety. Violent crimes such as kidnappings and homicides have gone down considerably in the last years after the civil war. The security measures in Bogota are becoming better every day.

However, widespread poverty is a major issue in Colombia, especially in Bogota. In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic that caused many people to lose their jobs, many locals are on the brink of complete bankruptcy.

This has caused the crime rate to go back up in Bogota, especially crimes such as petty theft and pickpockets. Armed robberies aren’t unusual as well.

Don’t Ruin Your Trip By Not Having Travel Insurance!

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Is Bogota Safe For Solo Travelers?

Bogota is a popular backpacking destination in South America and many travelers visit Bogota solo. I’ve done it before and never felt unsafe, though I did research a lot about safety in Bogota before visiting, just as you are doing now.

I would not say that solo travelers are more in danger than travelers in groups. Yes, of course, as a solo traveler, there are certain precautions you’ll need to take to ensure your safety.

Things such as not walking alone in the middle of the night in a dangerous neighborhood and being aware of your surroundings can help keep you safer. Daytime is usually safe to walk around by yourself, but you must avoid the dodgy alleys and areas in Bogota.

As a solo traveler, you’re likely to get more attention from locals and possibly criminals that want to rob or take advantage of you. It’s important that you portray a sense of confidence when walking around to avoid any unwanted interaction.

But in general, solo travelers are safe in Bogota.

We always recommend travel insurance when you are traveling in Colombia. Check out our recommended travel insurance company here!

Is Bogota Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

I’ve spoken with tons of solo female travelers that have been to Bogota and many of them agree on one thing – the aggressive men in Colombia. Machismo culture is very much alive in Bogota, so solo female travelers might get catcalled and harassed when they are just walking around.

When this happens, don’t engage them. Walking away and just ignoring them is the best way to deal with a situation like this, at least when you are a tourist in Colombia. If their approach becomes too much, you can decline them by saying something like “no gracias”, which is English for “no, thank you.”

At night, solo female travelers need to be extra cautious when walking around. Most crimes happen at night and solo female tourists are easy targets. It is best to take an Uber to get around Bogota at night.

But if you must go on foot, make sure you are aware of your surroundings. Simple things like going across on the other side of the street when you see someone coming down can help.

If possible, stay in one of the social hostels in Bogota and see if you can make a friend or two to explore Bogota with.

Solo female travelers can be safe in Bogota, but they must be take extra precautions to ensure their safety.

Is Bogota Safe At Night?

Safety in Bogota drops considerably at night when compared to the day. Many of the streets become desolate at night, so it’s important to be vigilant when out and about. It is best to avoid walking around alone at night completely.

La Candelaria , the historical center of Bogota, can be particularly dangerous at night. The cultural heart of the city becomes a playground for criminals at night.

People have been robbed at gunpoint and knifepoint in La Candelaria at night, so it is best to avoid going to this area. If you are staying in this area in Bogota, make sure you get an Uber in and out.

Bogota’s nightlife is incredible, but travelers must be aware of the potential danger that lurks beneath the surface. Drink spiking is common , and I’ve seen many people get their drinks spiked in Colombia and the rest of Latin America. It can happen to both men and women, but usually, it is more common with men as they are typically more careless.

Typically, an attractive young woman will approach them for a chat. And after drinking, chatting and potentially dancing for a little bit, the woman will slip a drug into his drink when he’s not looking.

Then the woman will take him back to her place, and by the time they arrive, the man will be too drugged to defend himself. The man usually wakes up on the side of the street with no money or phone.

Is La Candelaria Neighborhood in Bogota safe?

We have dedicated this part of the post to talking about the historic center of Bogota, La Candelaria. This area is home to some of the iconic landmarks in Colombia , such as the Museo del Oro, Catedral Primada de Colombia , and many other government official buildings.

Without a doubt, no visit to Bogota is complete without exploring La Candelaria.

Unfortunately, La Candelaria is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Bogota . In the daytime, it is typically okay to walk around and just check out the sights since it is very busy.

But there are incidents where people have gotten their bag snatched or even robbed at knifepoint in one of the tighter alleys.

La Candelaria is very dangerous at night. As the tourists and locals leave to go home, this area becomes very quiet at night. The colorful colonial-style buildings and cobblestone streets are very quiet. There is no one playing music on the corner, and it does not feel remotely safe to go walking out at night.

If you are staying in La Candelaria, make sure you have a safe way to get back home at night, and make sure your accommodation has good security measures.

If you are worried about visiting La Candelaria, there are plenty of walking tours that help you explore this area.

What Are The Safest Neighborhoods In Bogota?

One of the easiest ways to make your trip to Bogota much safer is by staying in one of the safe neighborhoods in Bogota. By just staying in a safer neighborhood, you can minimize the number of risks you face. These are the areas you should consider staying in:

• Teusaquillo

Usaquen is one of the wealthiest and safest neighborhoods in Bogota. It was once its own municipality separate from Bogota where the elite had their luxury estate homes.

This upper-class neighborhood continues to be one of the safest areas in Bogota, even at night. You will see a lot of police presence, and there are plenty of people out and about even at night.

Chapinero is also a safe neighborhood in Bogota that is adjacent to Usaquen. It is one of the most popular areas for young people and expats to live in Bogota. It is home to Zona Rosa and Zona G (G for gourmet), so travelers can find lots of great restaurants, bars, and clubs that make it a popular nightlife destination.

💪 Pro Tip: Chapinero is a huge neighborhood, and each sub-area has its own safety level. In general, as long as you are east of Carrera 7 (also known as Septima), then you are usually safe.

Teusaquillo is one of the most central neighborhoods in Bogota and is also one of the safest. It is home to lots of government buildings, embassies, and foreign residences. This neighborhood has a more residential feel than Chapinero or Usaquen, so it’s quite popular for families. You can walk around at night without any problems, but you won’t find much to do in the area.

📚 Read More: Where To Stay In Bogota: The Best And Safest Neighborhoods

Civil Unrest and Protest In Bogota

One of the biggest issues when traveling to Bogota is the civil unrest and protests. As the capital of Bogota, it is home to many government official buildings such as the Palacio de Nariño, where the president of Colombia resides and works.

As a result, if there is any protest in Colombia, Bogota would naturally be the place for it to occur.

And for a country that has widespread poverty and lots of reforms (for better or for worse), the locals are not hesitant to protest. Every year since 2019, there have been protests in Bogota and Colombia.

The most recent big ones were the 2021 Colombian protests , which were for the increased taxes, corruption, and health care reform proposed by the Colombian government.

Though civil unrest and protests are safety concerns, they typically occur only in a small area in Bogota. If visitors can avoid that area, they can significantly make their visit a lot less dangerous.

However, these situations can sometimes change rapidly, so visitors must use common sense, stay alert, and keep up-to-date with current events. One of the best ways to do so is by asking the receptionist at your accommodation.

They are usually more than happy to tell you about the political situation in Bogota and whether you should be worried about any protest or civil unrest.

Are Taxis Safe In Bogota?

While taxis are generally quite safe in Medellin , they are not very safe in Bogota. In Bogota, it is best to use Uber instead of taxis. There have been many reports of taxi drivers robbing their passengers or scamming them by overcharging them.

A few years ago, something known as the million-dollar ride was quite popular. It meant that the taxi driver would pick you up, drive you to an ATM, and make you take out all your money while threatening you with a knife or gun.

Though I’ve not heard of this in recent years, I’ve heard taxi drivers robbing you at knifepoint. Some taxi drivers try to scam you by either taking a detour or not using the meter. All officially licensed yellow taxis in Bogota are supposed to use the meter, but many do not so they can overcharge tourists.

That is why it is best to use Uber in Bogota, or better yet, Didi or Cabify, which takes a lower commission from drivers.

Read More: What Are The Safest Cities In Colombia?

Safety Tips For Traveling In Bogota

Bogota can be dangerous, but with the proper safety tips, you can make your visit as safe as possible. Here are some of the tips we personally recommend.

• Don’t Leave Your Drinks Unattended – You wouldn’t do this anywhere else in the world, why would you do it in Bogota? Bogota’s nightlife is incredible and everyone should experience it at least once, but make sure you keep an eye on your drink to make sure no one spikes it.
• Learn A Bit of Spanish – As the capital city of Colombia, you’d expect many people to speak English. But that is not the case. Knowing a little bit of Spanish can get you out of sticky situations, especially if you can understand what the locals are saying. We recommend using iTalki, where native speakers offer tailored online lessons.
• Don’t Fight Back If You Are Robbed – One of the most intuitive human instincts is to fight back when threatened. But in Bogota, that is a shortcut to getting stabbed and going to the hospital. Criminals are not afraid to use weapons in Bogota, and nothing is worth more than your life.
• Get A Sim Card – Getting a sim card will not only let you get an Uber anywhere you need from the city, but it can also help you navigate around the city. Knowing your way around the city will help you look more confident and prevent anyone from coming up to you to “help”.
• Travel Insurance – Perhaps the one thing that made me feel safe about traveling in Bogota was getting travel insurance. It gave me peace of mind knowing that I would be covered and reimbursed if I was robbed. I highly recommend getting some travel insurance for Bogota!
• Don’t Accept Drugs – Colombia and Bogota have a reputation for narco-tourism, and many travelers visit Colombia to take drugs and party. Unfortunately, this is one of the easiest ways to get into trouble. Not only will you get into trouble with law enforcement, but the drug dealer will know that you are under the influence and an easy target with lots of money.
• Take an Uber Instead of A Taxi – As we mentioned, taxis are not safe and notorious for scamming tourists.
• Take A Walking Tour Instead of Exploring On Your Own – Taking a walking tour with a local professional is not only a good way to get to know the city, but it also means that you are more protected from street crimes.
• Don’t Get Too Drunk – Getting too drunk or under the influence makes you an easy target. When the criminals see that you might not have the ability to defend yourself properly, they make a move and suddenly your wallet and phone are both gone.
• Don’t Flash Your Fancy Electronics and Accessories – Colombia is poor, and something like a new iPhone can be worth months of someone’s salary. Make sure you are subtle about your electronics. Better yet, wear something that blends in with the locals.
• Beware of Extra-Friendly Locals – Extra friendly locals might not be extra friendly after all. Some of them might have hidden intentions and might try to befriend you so you lower your guard. Some of them start a conversation with you while their accomplice walks by and takes your wallet out of your pocket.
• Meet Other Solo Travelers – If you want to stay safe in Bogota, it is best that you travel in a group. For solo travelers, you can easily meet other travelers by staying in popular hostels in the city, as well as taking tours that might have other participating guests.

• Don’t Take More Than You Need When Going Out – Don’t take any more than what you need when going out, especially at night. Even if you get robbed, you won’t lose everything and have the ability to get back home and replace the items you’ve lost. This is especially true for your passport. Don’t carry that thing around everywhere you go!
• Take Your Money From An ATM Inside A Shopping Mall – Shopping malls are some of the safest places in Bogota, and we recommend you use the ATMs there instead of the ones in the street for extra safety.

Safety In Bogota Colombia FAQs

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As you see, safety in Bogota is achievable, but only if you know the proper way to do so. Hopefully with our guide, you can feel a little bit more confident about visiting the capital city of Colombia.

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

Is Bogotá Safe? Unique Things You Need to Know

Are you looking for firsthand insights on navigating the vibrant yet notorious city of Bogotá? Wondering if it’s safe for tourists or how to make the most of your visit? Join me, someone who’s explored Bogotá extensively, including facing the challenges of being robbed, as I share practical tips and personal experiences to ensure your safety and enjoyment in the Colombian capital.

Why listen to me? I’ve not only visited Bogotá multiple times but have encountered and overcome the city’s safety challenges firsthand. From avoiding pickpockets to embracing local culture, I’ll guide you through the nuanced landscape of this captivating destination.

In this post, discover:

• Practical safety tips for exploring Bogotá
• Insights on local culture and must-visit attractions
• Specific advice for solo travelers, families, and digital nomads
• Common scams and how to avoid them
• All the answers to the question: “Is Bogotá safe?”

Rest assured, this article is your comprehensive guide to unlocking the best of Bogotá while keeping your safety a top priority.

The History of Crime and Safety in Bogotá

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Bogotá’s past is shadowed by the daunting legacy of crime, echoing Colombia’s struggle with FARC terrorism and notorious drug cartels. The city, once labeled among the world’s most perilous, faced the grim reality of frequent kidnappings and murders. However, positive strides have been made. In the aftermath of civil unrest, violent crimes have notably decreased.

Despite these improvements, challenges persist. Widespread poverty, exacerbated by the recent COVID-19 pandemic, lingers as a concern. Many, grappling with unemployment and financial instability, are teetering on the edge of destitution. This economic strain has triggered an uptick in certain crimes, including petty theft and pickpocketing, and armed robberies remain a lingering threat. Though Bogotá is on a trajectory of enhanced security measures, navigating its history illuminates the ongoing complexities of safety.

In the high-altitude embrace of the Andes, Bogotá beckons with its rich history and vibrant culture. But what about safety? Well, let’s dive in. The city, once notorious for drug wars, has evolved, yet some caution is still warranted. While drug-related incidents rarely touch travelers, there are pockets of risky zones, particularly after dark.

With 12 million residents, Bogotá is bustling, but not everyone plays by the rules. The southern areas can be dicey, contrasting with safer spots in the north. Touristy areas like La Candelaria transform after sunset, blending pickpocketing with occasional violence. The city occasionally witnesses strikes and protests; best keep a distance during these impassioned events.

Here’s a stark reality: Spikings with Scopolamine are prevalent. Travelers become targets, facing severe confusion and blackouts for sinister purposes. Though tourist police are in action, caution is advised. Even in popular districts like La Candelaria, occasional police involvement in theft and extortion has been noted.

Summing up, Bogotá is reasonably safe, but awareness is key. Don’t let concerns overshadow the charm of this captivating city. Keep your wits about you, explore wisely, and the rewards of Bogotá will far outweigh its challenges.

Safest Places to Stay in Bogotá

Enhance the safety of your Bogotá experience by opting for accommodation in one of the more secure neighborhoods. Choosing to stay in areas such as Chapinero, Usaquén, or Teusaquillo can significantly reduce potential risks during your visit.

Adjacent to Usaquen, Chapinero emerges as a secure haven in Bogotá. Popular among the youthful and expat crowd, it boasts attractions like Zona Rosa and Zona G, offering a vibrant nightlife. Divided into sub-areas, safety varies, but the eastern side of Carrera 7, also known as Septima, generally ensures security. This vast neighborhood combines safety with a lively atmosphere, making Chapinero a sought-after choice for those seeking both a secure and dynamic stay in Bogotá.

Located in opulence, Usaquén stands out as one of Bogotá’s safest and wealthiest neighborhoods. A former independent municipality for the elite, its legacy endures. Safety here isn’t a mere promise; it’s a reality, extending even into the night. Policing is robust, creating a secure environment. The streets remain lively after dark, with a visible and reassuring police presence.

Centrally positioned, Teusaquillo shines as one of Bogotá’s safest neighborhoods. Hosting government buildings, embassies, and foreign residences, it exudes a residential charm, making it a favorite among families. Strolling the streets at night poses no concerns, aligning safety with a more tranquil atmosphere. While it may not offer the bustling nightlife of Chapinero, Teusaquillo’s safety and family-friendly ambiance make it an appealing choice for those prioritizing a secure and serene stay in the heart of Bogotá.

🔗 Related : Where to Stay in Bogotá: 7 Best & Safest Neighborhoods

While Bogotá has its share of charm, there are areas best left untouched. Thankfully, these spots usually hold little allure for tourists. Exercise caution anywhere after dark; the city’s vibe shifts, making group travel and taxis the safer choice. Ciudad Bolivar and San Cristóbal in the South of Bogota come with high crime rates; if exploring, consider a local guide. Calle 9 and the south of Barrio Egipto present mugging risks—steer clear if you can. La Candelaria, though historic, demands extra vigilance due to pickpocketing and violent crimes. When in doubt, consult locals or your accommodation for safe recommendations in Bogotá.

10 Bogotá Safety Tips

In Bogotá, safety wanes after sunset. Tourists walking alone become targets for violent crimes. Shield yourself by choosing Uber or taxis at night, minimizing the risk of encountering unforeseen dangers. Your safety is paramount; let reliable transportation be your nighttime ally.

In Bogotá, staying alert is your armor. Attacks on tourists are less likely when you’re vigilant day and night. Hold your phone discreetly to deter snatch-and-run incidents. If using it, find a safe spot against a wall or in a building. A quick check can prevent potential trouble.

In Bogotá, locals emphasize “no dar papaya” – don’t give thieves an opening. Avoid flaunting pricey items; flashy jewelry or high-end attire may attract pickpockets. Stay cautious of classic tricks, like seduction schemes. Blend in with casual wear; less attention on valuables means less risk in Bogotá’s bustling streets.

Beware in Bogotá; taxi meters don’t always spring to life automatically. Don’t be caught off guard by a fare from the driver’s imagination. Upon entering, insist on the meter (‘metro’ in Spanish) and prompt the driver until it’s activated. For non-metered rides, like shuttle buses, confirm the total cost upfront to avoid surprises.

In Bogotá, minimize the impact of a robbery by limiting your cash and cards. Split your debit and credit cards, ensuring access to an alternate card if needed. Avoid carrying excessive cash; consider using “dummy cash” by stashing a small amount visibly and concealing the rest. Be strategic to mitigate losses.

Secure a local SIM or eSIM in Bogotá for more than just connectivity. It’s your key to convenient Uber rides and confident city navigation, reducing the chances of unwanted assistance. With a local number, you seamlessly blend in, enhancing your safety in the dynamic streets of Bogotá.

🔗 Related : The Complete Airalo eSIM Review: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Need to Always Stay Connected?

We recommend using the Airalo eSIM while traveling as a digital nomad. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travelers access to eSIMs in over 200+ countries.

In Bogotá, safeguard against the notorious “Devil’s Breath.” Scopolamine, labeled “the most dangerous drug in the world,” lingers. Keep drinks close, especially in crowded spots. Bogotá authorities combat scopolamine, but stay vigilant—never accept drinks from strangers to ensure a worry-free night in the city.

In Bogotá, ensure your safety net with travel insurance. A wise investment, it provides peace of mind against potential losses from theft. Secure your adventure in Bogotá by obtaining travel insurance, a key element for a worry-free exploration of the vibrant Colombian capital.

In Bogotá, prioritize safety when withdrawing cash. Opt for indoor ATMs to avoid potential outdoor risks. ATM rooms, often within shopping centers and banks, offer secure transactions. Stay vigilant even indoors, especially if withdrawing a substantial amount; do so during the day and discreetly stow your money before leaving.

Empower your Bogotá journey by learning Spanish; a few phrases go a long way. Beyond breaking barriers, it’s a safety tool. Navigate confidently, understand warnings, and seek help if needed. Despite perceptions, locals often go above and beyond to assist those making an effort to communicate in their language.

🔗 Related : Survival Spanish 101

Yes, solo female travelers can navigate Bogotá safely with some precautions. While the city poses its risks, it shouldn’t deter exploration. Trust your instincts, avoid appearing lost, and plan routes in advance. Opt for female-only dorms in hostels and tap into the friendly local community for assistance.

Expect catcalling, unfortunately cultural, but remain resilient. Refrain from opening doors for strangers, and inform someone trustworthy about your plans. Feel free to embellish facts if questioned. Join guided tours for camaraderie and safety. Remember, saying “NO” decisively is crucial; prioritize your safety without guilt. In Bogotá, solo female travel is feasible with vigilance and assertiveness.

🔗 Related : 15 Best Hostels in Bogotá for the Ultimate Stay

Bogotá is relatively safe for families, though not at the level of some European capitals. The city’s high altitude at 2,640 meters can affect children more, causing symptoms like shortness of breath. While prams are impractical, slings are a better choice for navigating Bogotá with kids.

Colombia’s family-oriented culture means special treatment for families; expect queue priority and dedicated immigration lines. The warmth towards children makes traveling with them in Bogotá a positive experience, with locals often going the extra mile. Despite altitude considerations, exploring Bogotá with your family promises enriching moments and a welcoming atmosphere.

Bogotá’s safety diminishes significantly at night, caution is paramount. Desolate streets and the historical center, La Candelaria, transform into risky territory. Incidents of gunpoint and knifepoint robberies have been reported at night. Solo walks after dark are strongly discouraged. If staying in La Candelaria, opt for secure transportation like Uber.

While Bogotá boasts incredible nightlife, a hidden danger exists—drink spiking. Both men and women are vulnerable, but men are often targeted. Common scenarios involve an attractive woman slipping drugs into a drink during conversation, leading to potential robbery. Awareness is key; revelers must remain vigilant in Bogotá’s vibrant but potentially perilous nighttime scene.

La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historic center, houses iconic landmarks like Museo del Oro and Catedral Primada de Colombia, making it a must-visit. However, it holds a darker side, being one of Bogotá’s most dangerous neighborhoods. Daytime exploration is generally safe due to bustling crowds, but bag snatching and knife-point robberies have occurred in narrow alleys.

Nighttime transforms La Candelaria into a quiet, potentially unsafe zone. Colonial-style buildings and cobblestone streets lose their daytime charm, and deserted corners can pose risks. If staying here, ensure a secure means of returning at night and choose accommodations with robust security measures. Walking tours offer a safer way to explore La Candelaria for those concerned about its nighttime safety.

Bogotá is generally safe for tourists, especially within touristy areas. Adhering to safety precautions is crucial: avoid solo night strolls, stay vigilant, minimize displays of valuables, and opt for trusted transportation. Following these guidelines ensures a secure and enjoyable experience exploring the vibrant Colombian capital.

Bogotá can be safe for digital nomads with proper precautions. Choose accommodation in secure neighborhoods like Usaquen or Chapinero, use trusted transportation, and be cautious in areas like La Candelaria at night. Reliable internet services are available, making it a viable location. Connect with the expat community for insights and join co-working spaces for a productive work environment. By prioritizing safety and connectivity, Bogotá can be a rewarding destination for digital nomads.

🔗 Related : The ULTIMATE Bogota Digital Nomad Guide

In Bogotá, tourists should be aware of common scams to ensure a safe visit. One prevalent scam involves fake police officers stopping travelers, claiming to inspect documents or belongings. Genuine police officers wear uniforms and carry proper identification; travelers should insist on verifying credentials.

Another scam occurs in crowded places, where distraction techniques like spilled drinks or staged arguments are used to facilitate theft. Stay vigilant in such scenarios and secure belongings. Additionally, be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering assistance or information, especially in La Candelaria.

Street Crime in Bogotá

Bogotá contends with minor street crimes, primarily purse and cellphone thefts. Thieves, sometimes armed with knives or small guns, execute snatch-and-run tactics. While firsthand accounts are uncommon, it’s crucial to remain vigilant. Paying attention to surroundings and securely gripping belongings can thwart potential theft. Although stories circulate, personal awareness and precautionary measures significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to such crimes in Bogotá.

Civil Unrest and Protests in Bogotá

Civil unrest and protests pose a notable concern in Bogotá. Being the capital, the city is a focal point for such activities. To minimize the risk, steer clear of major government buildings, as protests typically occur in their vicinity. Keep a watchful eye for police protest patrols and rioters. If you spot larger crowds or a line of riot police, consider exploring a different neighborhood for the day. Proactively stay informed about local events.

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Bogotá Safety FAQ’s

Uber operates in Bogotá, providing a convenient and widely-used transportation option. Despite legal debates in Colombia, Uber has found a legal workaround to continue its services. Peer economy drivers are abundant across the city, minimizing wait times. However, caution is advised when using Uber from the airport or bus terminals due to potential police scrutiny. To avoid issues, drivers may request to pick up or drop off passengers slightly outside these areas. Additionally, for those without data, taking a screenshot of the quoted price ensures transparency during the ride. While Uber is generally safe in Bogotá, awareness of these nuances enhances the overall experience.

Taxis in Bogotá come with safety concerns, unlike their counterparts in Medellin. Reports of taxi drivers robbing or overcharging passengers are not uncommon. In the past, the infamous “million-dollar ride” involved drivers coercing passengers to withdraw money at an ATM under threat. Some drivers attempt scams through detours or refusing to use the meter, contravening regulations. Officially licensed yellow taxis are expected to use meters, but non-compliance is widespread, especially targeting tourists. While not all taxi experiences are negative, travelers should exercise caution, opt for trusted services, and be aware of potential risks when using taxis in Bogotá.

Public transportation in Bogotá, particularly the TransMilenio, is a convenient but not entirely safe option. Reports of pickpocketing are prevalent, especially during crowded rush hours. Travelers are advised to stay vigilant, keeping belongings close to their bodies to prevent theft. Despite safety concerns, the TransMilenio remains an efficient and widely used mode of transportation for navigating Bogotá.

Surprisingly, tap water in Bogotá is safe to drink. Despite concerns about water quality in some Latin American regions, Bogotá maintains high standards for its tap water. Personal experiences confirm the safety, as drinking tap water in the city has not led to any issues with us. Visitors can confidently rely on the tap water in Bogotá, a departure from common stereotypes about water safety in the region.

Hiking up Monserrate can be safe if you follow specific guidelines. Only attempt the hike when police are present, typically on Sunday mornings when the trail is bustling with locals. During weekdays, opt for the period between 6-9 am when the path is guarded. If you arrive and find no guards, reconsider the hike, as it may pose an increased risk of muggings. Choosing the right time and heeding the presence of security measures enhances the safety of this iconic Bogotá experience.

Bogotá is generally safe for American tourists who take necessary precautions. Stick to touristy areas, avoid walking alone at night, stay vigilant, and use reliable transportation. While the city has improved its safety, it’s crucial to remain aware of your surroundings and follow local advice for a secure visit. Remember, Colombians are some of the most friendly people in the world!

Hiking in Bogotá can be safe, but it’s essential to gather local insights and, if possible, hire a Colombian guide. Some hikes may pose risks, including isolated areas or uncertain trail conditions. Consulting with locals and having a knowledgeable companion enhances safety while exploring Bogotá’s stunning hiking trails.

Bogotá, at an elevation of 2,640 meters, can trigger altitude sickness symptoms, including shortness of breath. While severe complications are rare, visitors may experience adjustment issues. Taking it easy for the first few days allows your body to acclimate to the altitude, minimizing discomfort associated with altitude sickness.

Bogotá stands out as Colombia’s premier LGBTQ+ destination, boasting Theatron, one of the world’s largest gay clubs, particularly vibrant on Saturdays. Major cities, including Bogotá, host lively pride parades, with the largest events occurring in June, July, or August. The LGBTQ+ scene reflects progressive attitudes, but travelers should remain mindful, especially in more conservative rural areas.

Bogotá Airport stands out as one of Colombia’s finest, ensuring safety along with modern amenities and cleanliness. The airport maintains high security standards, providing a safe environment for travelers.

Surprisingly, Bogotá is slightly more precarious than Medellin. Being the capital, Bogotá experiences more civil unrest than Medellin, impacting its safety levels.

🔗 Related : Bogota vs Medellin: Which City is Better?

In the eyes of many, Cartagena’s touristy areas are considered safer than Bogotá. The beautiful colonial setting and tourist-friendly services make Cartagena an appealing and secure destination. Bogotá, being a bustling capital, is often perceived as more extensive, chaotic, and polluted.

Bogotá, despite its notorious safety concerns, holds a charm worth exploring, contingent on connecting with the locals. While it carries the legacy of its past, the city has moved forward, shedding the image of drug-laden violence. Safety in Bogotá aligns with common precautions required in any major city. The primary worry involves pickpocketing and petty crime, particularly phone thefts.

However, by treating Bogotá as a dynamic city rather than a mere tourist spot, one can navigate it securely. Engaging with its vibrant culture, museums, galleries, and everyday life reveals a Bogotá that embraces visitors warmly. Like any city, it has its challenges, but a respectful approach and local connections transform Bogotá into a welcoming hub.

We hope you enjoyed this post and found the information informative! Let us know any questions in the comments below!

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Is Bogotá, Colombia Safe? 2024 Safety Guide

From cumbia to coffee, Bogotá promises visitors a taste of all that is great about Colombia. It’s often the first port of call for travelers to this enthralling corner of South America; a capital that thrums with life, allures with colorful colonial buildings, and takes the breath away with its location some 2,600 meters above sea level. But is Bogotá, Colombia, safe?

That’s what this guide is here to find out. Here, we’ll dig into the stats to see the risks and dangers that travelers might face when they come this way. It will outline the safety of the town generally, the crime rates, and what the public transport system is like.

Overall, we’d say that Bogota is considered a safe place to travel and is actually up there with the safer urban spaces in South America. However, Colombia is known for its high levels of violent and cartel-related crime , so there are some things to know before you jet over and touch down. Let’s begin…

Table of Contents

Is Bogotá safe for travelers in 2024?

Decades of civil war between Colombia’s government and the FARC rebels meant that the country was historically a fairly dangerous place to visit. But following the settling of this dispute in 2016, Colombia has opened up to tourists like never before, becoming a much safer place to visit. Naturally, that’s really improved the state of affairs in the capital, which is now among the most-visited major cities in the whole region.

Bogotá now has a great infrastructure for tourists, with plenty of safe accommodation options, a higher police presence, secure transport systems, and tourism operators to help visitors make the most of the city. Most pointedly, the murder rate here is far lower than the national average, reaching an incidence of under 10 per 100,000 head of population in 2021. Compare that to some US cities and you’re likely to be pretty surprised – St. Louis, Baltimore, New Orleans, Detroit, and a whole host of others are between four and five times worse!

What’s key here is that Bogota has come a long, long way since the heyday of the cartels that once run Colombia during the age of a certain Pablo Escobar. Take the rate of kidnappings in the city – that’s dropped a whopping 92% in the last 20 years. This is not the city to be feared that it once was.

Of course, crime is still a problem. According to Numbeo, Bogotá has a high crime rate of 77.92, with pickpocketing and muggings a particular concern for tourists. The rate of armed robberies in the city has also been on the up in recent years, hitting a high in 2019 before dropping again largely due to the pandemic.

Protests pose another safety threat to tourists in Bogotá. A series of ongoing protests against increased taxes, corruption, and health care reform shook the country in 2021. These demonstrations often turned violent due to clashes between protestors and the police, causing widespread disruption in Bogotá. While the country has largely overcome this wave of protests, strikes do sometimes occur. It’s important to avoid areas of town where protests are taking place.

Petty theft in Bogota

Bogotá is generally safe for tourists, so long as visitors exercise due caution. As we mentioned before, petty street crime is probably the largest threat here. Travelers can quickly become easy targets if they wander into the wrong neighborhood or behave in an inconspicuous manner.

Pickpockets are common in crowded areas and on public transport, but they’re easily avoided if you’re aware of the threat –  it’s really important to remain vigilant of your belongings at all times. The local expression “no dar papaya” loosely translates to “don’t make yourself a target”.

So, don’t leave your bag unattended in shops, or under tables in bars and restaurants. Don’t walk around with an expensive camera around your neck, or money visibly on your person, and avoid wearing rucksacks on your back. Keeping your possessions locked away in a safe at your accommodation is also a good idea. And it’s especially important not to take your passport out and about with you.

Bogota neighborhood guide – safe areas

It’s also important to understand which areas of the city to avoid. As a general rule, the north and east of the city are safe for tourists, but the further you head south the more risk you’ll find. The residential area of Ciudad Bolivar in the south should be avoided completely. Not only is there a high risk of robbery, but torrential rain can lead to flooding in crowded shanty towns, especially on hillside developments.

Safe tourist zones and dangerous districts can be just a few blocks apart, so it’s best to stick to the popular tourist areas and not wander too far off the well-trodden path. Talk to someone at your hostel about your plans for the day before you go out and they can recommend the best route.

Or, join a walking tour for safety in numbers. That being said, popular tourist areas of the city, including La Candelaria can become dangerous after dark. Avoiding heading out by oneself, as well as always having an idea of the direction you are heading in is important for avoiding muggings and armed robberies. 

Is it safe to live in Bogotá?

In general, it’s safe to live in Bogotá. Many expats enjoy the best of what the city has to offer without coming to any harm. But the same petty crime that afflicts tourists can affect expats if they don’t exercise similar precautions. Numbeo finds that there’s a high rate of property crimes such as vandalism and theft (70.10/100). That’s why we would reccomend opting to live in a house or apartment with security systems and gates is very important.

Most expats and digital nomads choose to live in the smaller neighborhoods of Parque 93, Chapinero Alto, Los Rosales, Cedritos, and Usaquén. Condos here are typically newer and feature strong security systems such as underground parking and video security. Many will even come with 24/7 security on the door, though that’s likely to cost a little more in rent.

Is Bogotá safe at night?

Bogotá is much less safe by night than it is in the day. While it’s considered moderately safe to walk by oneself during the day – 48.52 on Numbeo – this figure drops to the low safety level of 20.01 after dark. ​​Avoiding unlit areas after dark is essential in order to avoid falling prey to opportunistic thieves.

As a general rule, try not to walk alone at night, particularly in non-tourist areas. If in doubt, hop in a yellow registered taxi – they’re inexpensive in Cartagena and a much safer option than wandering the streets by oneself. Similarly, if you’re wanting to go out partying, it’s important to not get too inebriated. Always try to go home as part of a group, and make sure your friends don’t get left behind.

Is public transport safe in Bogotá? 

As such a large and sprawling city, Bogotá can be fairly intimidating when you first arrive. However, due to recent updates to the public transport system, it’s fairly easy to get around the city. There are a number of transport options to safely get around the city. The Transmilenio (Bogota’s Bus Rapid Transit System) and busetas (local buses) are cheap and reliable. However, pickpocketing can be rife on these networks so it’s always recommended to keep an eye on your possessions. There have also been some reports of public transport systems in Bogotá being less safe for women, so solo female travelers may want to consider taking a taxi rather than venturing out on public transport.

By night, it’s safer to get around by taxi. Official, registered yellow taxis are inexpensive and ubiquitous. Be sure to agree on a rate before you set off. Some drivers—as is the case all around the world—will overcharge those unfamiliar with the city. You can also rely on Uber, but be sure to check the registration plate matches the car that you ordered.

Is it safe to walk alone in Bogotá?

During the day it is moderately safe to walk by oneself in Bogotá, providing you stick to the well-trodden tourist locations and take care not to attract attention to yourself by wearing flashy jewelry and flashing the cash. Still, it’s not recommended to wander into the deprived areas and informal settlements to the South of the city at any time of the day. By night, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas and take taxis rather than walk. Even some of the popular tourist areas, such as La Candelaria, can become dangerous.

Make sure you speak to local people to get the most up-to-date safety information on the area that you are planning to visit. 

Is Bogotá Airport safe?

Bogotá Airport – the El Dorado International Airport – is now the largest airport in the whole of Colombia and the second-largest airport in the whole of South America. It’s a major arrival point for travelers looking to explore the country and the Andes, which is why it underwent a major refurbishment in 2007. That saw the arrival of a fantastic new terminal and many new facilities and now the complex is in line with most major international hubs, complete with shopping concourses and restaurants.

Bogota Airport is considered very safe for travelers and can even be used for extended periods on changeover flights.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Bogotá? 

The official line on this is yes, the tap water in Bogota is safe. However, the locals will often tell you that even they don’t think it’s the tastiest urban water supply in the world. That’s why a lot of people here drink mainly bottled water. The other risk comes from contaminated water tanks. These are the main water supply for the poorer barrio areas of the city. You don’t often get them in major hotel chains, but they could be used in smaller B&Bs.

To be on the safe side, we’d probably recommend steering clear of drinking water from the taps in Bogota, and around Colombia generally. Most people say it’s not so bad that you have to worry about keeping your mouth shut in the shower and things. The good news is that bottled water is widely available from grocery stores and hotel shops. It usually costs around $0.70-0.90 a pop.

Top 7 Bogotá safety tips

In summary, Bogotá is not without its dangers. But every year, tourists and digital nomads from around the world enjoy the hustle and bustle of this vibrant South American city without coming into harm’s way. It’s always important to use a bit of common sense and take some fairly obvious precautions. Here are seven useful tips to make sure you have a safe and worry-free trip to Bogotá…

• Speak to locals – People with local knowledge are always the best-placed to offer up to date and accurate safety advice. Seek advice from your hotel or hostel owner about the areas of the city to steer clear of.
• Keep your valuables out of sight – This one is fairly obvious, but it’s so important that it’s worth repeating. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy jewelry (even if it’s not expensive jewelry), using smartphones, tablets, or expensive-looking cameras in plain view of others, or carrying large amounts of cash. Be conscious of the way you carry your possessions, too. For example, don’t walk around with your smartphone in your back pocket, or use a bag without a secure zip.
• When hailing a taxi, always look for registered yellow taxi cabs – Agree a fair with the driver before setting off. Similarly, when hailing an Uber be sure that the car matches the description of the vehicle on your app. 
• Avoid unlit areas at night, particularly if you’re by yourself – Walking in unlit alleyways, or unfamiliar neighborhoods outside of the tourist zones could make you vulnerable to muggings. If you find yourself in trouble, draw attention to the situation by yelling ‘fuego’ (fire in Spanish).
• If you’re mugged, don’t resist – While no one wants to lose their possessions, it’s always the safer option than risking angering a potentially-armed criminal. Simply hand over what they are requesting, and try to stay calm. Once you’re safely out of the situation, head to the local police station.
• Don’t buy drugs -Tourists that seek out drugs make themselves extremely vulnerable. You don’t want to be implicated in potentially violent situations, nor extorted by the police.
• Avoid the informal settlements and deprived areas in the south of the city – As a tourist, you can’t guarantee your safety in these parts of town. They are best avoided unless you are accompanied by someone who knows their way around.

Is Bogotá safe – our conclusion

Generally speaking, Bogota is safe. For a city that was once considered to be among the most dangerous on the planet, the capital of Colombia has come a very long way in the last two decades or so. Crime rates have plummeted over 90% in some categories, and the town now has official crime stats that make it WAY safer than a whole range of US cities on paper.

More than that, there have been significant improvements to the infrastructure of Bogota over the years. Today, it’s safer and easier to get around the town using public transport than it ever was, and many even say that the water supply is potable and good for human consumption.

That doesn’t mean that you can waltz over to the metropolis in the Andes without a worry in the world. There are still some key things you’ll need to watch out for. Petty theft is increasingly common in the tourist areas of Bogota, for example, you’ll have to be wary going out at night, and there are certain areas that we’d totally avoid (particularly on the south side of the city).

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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Is Bogotá safe to travel and live in 2024? 16 tips for keeping safe in Colombia

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

‘Is Bogota safe?’ are three words that fill travel forums and hostel common areas alike. In my view, yes, Bogota is safe. But you need to exercise a certain amount of caution, just as you would visiting Paris or Glasgow or Houston (fun fact: crime rates in Bogota are about on par with Houston, Texas , which came 59th in a list of the USA’s most dangerous cities ).

This used to be the kidnapping capital of the world, but now that peace is being negotiated with the paramilitary groups and the narco cartels are less open. Either way, it’s unlikely that you’ll be a target as a foreigner.

If you do find yourself in the unfortunate (though still rare!) position of being mugged, please please please just GIVE THEM EVERYTHING. This isn’t about teaching thieves a lesson in morality, they’re desperate and you don’t know how intent they are on harming you if it means they’re able to survive their next day. You also don’t know if they have others waiting in the sidelines to provide back-up if needed.

Your life is worth so much more than a phone.

When they find out how long I spent in Colombia’s capital, people’s reaction is usually ‘But is Bogota safe for foreigners?!’ . The city does have a reputation due to its dangerous past, so it’s a fair concern to have.

To ease your fears, I’ve put together some tips for staying safe in Bogota, but in general just be alert, be knowledgable about where you are and don’t be stupid.

While these may have been written with Bogota in mind, they absolutely apply to other big Colombian cities like Medellín , too.

I was in Bogota, Colombia for a total of 7 months all in all, so if you want to find out all there is to do and eat in and around this buzzing city, I’ve got you covered:

• Complete guide to Bogotá Colombia after 7 months of living there
• Where to find the tastiest food in Bogotá
• Best workspaces for digital nomads in Bogotá
• Epic day-trips and weekend breaks from Bogotá

Spanish-speakers, please forgive me for dropping the tilde off Bogotá, it’s only for SEO purposes! [I hate myself.]

So, is Bogota safe? Yes! But here are 16 tips to make your stay safer:

– no des papaya.

Colombians have a saying, no dar papaya – or no des papaya in the infinitive – which is a sneaky way to put blame on the victim, but it does has some truth to it. The phrase literally translates to ‘ don’t give papaya ‘, and it essentially means don’t show criminals that you hold an opportunity, or else you can expect them to take it.

This might mean flashing your things, or it might mean falling for the classic trick of seduction by a stunner of a woman (we seem to hear of foreign men getting date-drugged more than women here, but maybe they’re just more vocal about it in the expat groups).

– Do not leave your food or drink unattended

For once, this actually applies more to men than to women when it comes to foreigners. I think most women are very used to having to take this precaution wherever they are in the world, but men don’t often have to think about it, so it makes them an easy target for scopolamine.

This is not to say that women aren’t targets, they’re just instinctively more alert to the risks, having had it drilled into them since around the time when they bought their first bra.

If you don’t know, scopolamine, or ‘Devil’s Breath’ is a drug made from a plant that can be used to spike someone’s drink/meal or can be blown in their face (though you’d need a huge amount to do this). It’s sometimes referred to as a truth serum, because it makes the victim like a zombie who will do and answer anything you ask.

Thieves (usually headed by a beautiful girl) use it to get people to clear out their bank accounts and help them load their own possessions out of their flat and into a van, never to be seen again.

To the outside world, you look fine, just a little drunk, but you won’t remember anything when you wake up in an empty apartment the next morning.

Scopolamine does seem more of a risk in the expat areas of Medellin (thanks to sex tourism thinly veiled as ‘love tourism’), but there have been cases in Bogota too.

Always have your drink in-hand, don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know well (not just strangers) and for the love of god if she’s a clear 10 and you’re at best a 3, don’t even entertain the thought that this might be your goddamn lucky day.

– Know your barrios

When it comes to everyday life in the city, it isn’t really a question of ‘Is Bogota safe?’ but, ‘Is this particular area of Bogota safe?’. A lot of risk in the capital is linked to your location at the time, and there are Bogota barrios that you categorically should not be going into.

There are, however, plenty of perfectly secure barrios, so stick to this ’ere guide on where to stay in Bogota and you’ll reduce your risk enormously.

In general, you can usually get a good feel for the safety of a street as soon as you start to walk down it, so always trust your instincts and turn around if you feel on edge.

Some areas do change between night and day – in particular, the tourist area of La Candelaria is in the south of the city, and borders some very rough barrios. The locale tends to change at night, and it becomes sketchy as hell with much higher risk of robbery or mugging.

Though beautiful in hours of light, I usually recommend that tourists do not stay in La Candelaria, and I can’t imagine expats wanting to live there.

– Don’t dress to impress

There’s no need look swanky unless you’re hanging out in bars with the upper echelons of society in the North of the city, so try not to draw attention to yourself as a wealthy-looking person when you’re out and about during the day.

Trying to mimic the casual style of the locals (jeans, t-shirt and jacket with boots or trainers) can help you blend in and avoid being targeted as a rich tourist.

On the other end of the scale, a money belt or thief-proof bag is only going to make you stand out as carrying something of value (and they’re also giving us foreigners a bad name for having terrible fashion sense; please stop.).

– Steer clear of protests

Colombian politics can be both polarising and corrupt, and this has led to lots of protests in recent years. In particular, the students at university in Bogota are regular protesters because it’s not unheard of that universities have to close mid-semester with no refunds because they ran out of government subsidies.

It’s actually very rare that protests in Bogota turn violent, but they do tend to amass quite a crowd, so stay well away just in case things do get rowdy.

Between Septima (Carrera 7) and Caracas (Carrera 14) in Chapinero is a popular area for protests to march.

– Brush up on your Spanish

This has got us out of so so many sticky situations in Bogota and elsewhere on the continent. Learning Spanish – even just a few basic phrases – can significantly reduce the risks that come with travel in Bogota. You can ask for directions, understand locals’ warnings and call for help if ever necessary.

People say Bogota natives are cold and unfriendly, but every time I’ve ever needed to ask for assistance, it’s been met with people bending over backwards to make sure I get to where I want to be.

Here are some useful posts if you’re trying to learn Spanish:

• Best and (worst) places to learn Spanish in Latin America
• 8 easy phrases to make you sound better at Spanish than you actually are
• Stop pronouncing these South America place names wrong!
• 6 Spanish mistakes to avoid in Latin America

– Seek out indoor ATMs

On rare occasions, outdoor ATMs have been targets for robberies. Luckily, there are ATM ‘rooms’ all over where you can withdraw money behind closed doors, and there are lots within shopping centres and banks, too.

Still be alert about who’s hanging around outside, of course, and if you need to withdraw a large amount of cash do it during the day, putting the money away before you turn around and exit the room.

Check out my list of free ATM cash withdrawals in Colombia and the rest of Latin America .

– Carry decoys

I’m a big fan of this tip for Bogota safety, and in fact it’s something that I used throughout Latin America. This involves carrying two wallets and sometimes a shitty spare phone that you can hand over instead of your real ones if you run into trouble.

In Bogota, I never really felt unsafe enough to also carry a burner phone (I did in cities such as Rio de Janeiro , for example, and throughout Bolivia I carried an entire extra handbag), but a decoy wallet is always sensible.

– Don’t carry everything on you

In relation to the previous point, keep things in your (real) wallet down to a minimum. Select which card you’re going to take out for the day and leave the rest in a secure place at your accommodation.

Carry your drivers license or national identity card if you will need ID, but don’t take your passport out.

Only bring as much cash as you’ll need, with a tiny bit extra just in case. If you do run into shit, at least you can limit the damage.

– Print out a copy of your passport

Honestly, in all my 7 months of being in Bogota I was never once asked for it, but police do have the right to request to see your ID if you cross paths.

As said previously, you don’t want to be taking out your actual passport when you visit Bogota (or anywhere else in Latin America, really – I still don’t know why people do this when they have lockers in their accommodation). Print a colour copy and stash it in your ‘real’ wallet.

If the police requesting your ID do not show their identification first, be alert that they may not be real police. Asking to be taken to the police station (CAI) will soon have them sweating under the collar if they’re not.

– Don’t partake in the white stuff

As I’ve always said, look for trouble in Colombia and it will quickly find you. Though drugs in Colombia (mostly cocaine) can be easy to come by – especially in tourist areas – I would recommend avoiding it for four reasons:

• Cocaine is a lot purer in Colombia than elsewhere in the world, so you won’t know your limits
• If caught in possession, you will not be let off from fierce penalties just because you’re not a native
• Buying drugs is the perfect way to let gangs know where the gringo with impaired judgement and money to spare is
• You’re perpetuating the problems that Colombia has been working so hard to rid themselves of

Is Bogota safe on public transport?

When it comes to the public bus system, is Bogota safe there, too? For the most part, yes. As long as you’re sticking to travelling between areas I’ve highlighted in my which barrios to stay in Bogota guide , your risk is not high. However, here are some transport-related tips for staying safe in Bogota:

– Don’t take the Transmilenio at rush hour

The Transmilenio (or TransMi) is a bus system that runs all through the city. It’s cheap, and using the free TransMi app it’s easy to get to grips with. The bus stations are contained within glass walls and usually well-maintained and manned, but obviously just be alert as you always would.

The problem comes when people have to push up close to queue or find a space on the bus, which is when pickpockets have an absolute field day.

If you’re just visiting Bogota, it’s unlikely you’ll ever need to travel on the Transmilenio at rush hour, so have a coffee where you are to wait another hour or so to travel, or take other transport options such as a taxi.

– Do not pick up an unlicensed taxi at the airport

Unless you’ve booked a private transfer from the airport, as soon as you exit through the Arrivals door you’ll be bombarded with people shouting ‘taxi taxi!’ or even ‘Uber!’. Obviously, this is not how Uber works, so you won’t fall for that one, but a lot of newbies to Bogota don’t realise that none of the people claiming to be taxi drivers are licensed. If they were, they would be in the well-regulated queue outside Arrivals for yellow taxis.

We got stung by an unlicensed taxi once, we knew as soon as he led us to his car in the car park that he wasn’t a real driver, but we’d negotiated really well so stupidly went ahead with it (is Bogota safe for idiots? Not really).

During the journey, the driver kept asking for a tip on top of the price (assuming we were American, lols) and then when we arrived at our apartment he proceeded to lock the doors and DEMAND more because our negotiated price was too low. Andy isn’t one to back down in this situation, and it turned into a Spanish shouting match at 3am which left me fairly terrified. Getting a metered taxi would have solved all of this!

For reference, a taxi from Bogota Airport to the central barrios of the city will cost 25-30,000 COP unless they add a late-night surcharge.

– Always ask for the meter to be put on

In Bogota, taxis won’t necessarily automatically switch on the meter for you, so you could end up reaching your destination and being hit with a number plucked from the driver’s imaginative head.

As soon as you get into a taxi, always point at the meter (‘metro’ in spanish) and ask for it until he presses the button – you may have to mention it several times.

For non-metered transport like shuttle buses, always ask the total price before you agree to get in.

– Use Uber/Cabify, but still be alert

After much back and forth in Colombia, where Uber was made to leave and then found a legal loophole to allow them to continue operations, Uber in Bogota does work. Cabify also works very well in Bogota. There are a lot of peer economy drivers across the city so you never have to wait too long for one (unless they’re stuck in rush hour traffic!).

However, taking an Uber from the airport and bus terminals poses a risk of being stopped by the police who still try to clamp down on it (with the driver getting fined, not you, but they will take your ID details). This means most Uber drivers will request to pick you up/drop you off a little outside the area.

Also, when getting in an Uber or Cabify, if you don’t have data on your phone, take a screenshot of the quoted price. When going to Andres Carne de Res in Chia , 45 minutes from Bogota’s centre, we picked up an Uber for about 25k and opted to pay cash as there were a few of us. When we got there, the driver showed us his screen which said 45k, but without phone data we couldn’t prove him otherwise. We contacted Uber in the morning when our app was still saying it was 25k, and realised what he’d shown us was a screenshot from another trip. Sneaky!

In other words… get yourself a data sim

Really, it’s best to just buy a sim card if you can – Movistar and Claro are popular in Colombia, but Three UK will give you free data with their Go Roam plans. It’ll help you work out your routes as you go if you run into any change of plans or obstacles while you’re out.

I know that reading through all these Bogota safety tips can make it seem like it’s a really big scary place with danger ready to jump out at every corner, but really relax, it’s fine, and you’re gonna be fine. With the right frame of mind, not only is Bogota safe to visit, it’s safe to live, too.

The fact that you’ve even asked The Google ‘Is Bogota safe?’ shows that you’re a safety-conscious, alert kind of person when you travel. So go out there and have fun in one of my favourite cities in the world! Hopefully by the end of the trip you’ll not be asking ‘Is Bogota safe?‘, but instead ‘Can I move to Bogota in 2024?‘.

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Last Updated on 11 February 2024 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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7 thoughts on “is bogotá safe to travel and live in 2024 16 tips for keeping safe in colombia”.

Hey, I am staying in the Viajero hostel in La Candelaria. It is 3 of us, and we were not thinking of walking around at all after dark. Do you think that is going to be an issue at all with safety?

I think it’s good you’re being cautious. It’s not a complete no-go, but try and stick to lit areas in as big a group as possible. If you see someone or something that makes your instincts uncomfortable, don’t feel rude or silly by turning to walk the other way. Take Ubers if you’re going further around the city at night. Have a wonderful trip!

Hi, I’m planning to visit a friend in this area in 2024 after I graduate I’ll be 17 or 18 depending on when I get to go. My friend has lived in Colombia her whole life so she knows the area. But do you have any advice for me, what I should and shouldn’t do?

That will be an amazing trip! Honestly, being with a local is the best thing you can do. She will know all the places to go and how to best get there, and will keep you as safe as poss! Just try to do your best not to stand out as a tourist. Enjoy 🙂

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Bogota Colombia Safety: What to Know

Generally, Bogota is a safe place to travel (with a little know-how!). But like elsewhere in the world, Colombia has seen waves of COVID. Check out our update below and keep reading for nine ways to stay safe in Bogota.

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners— Heroes —who build unique, locally-curated trip plans, designed just for you. Get started .

Table of Contents

1. bogota's neighborhoods are fantastic, 2. uber makes getting around easy, 3. if you encounter catcallers (ignore them), 4. don't accept drinks from strangers (same as at home), 5. if you see a protest, walk away, 6. blend in as much as possible, 7. use caution while withdrawing money, 8. be wary of "police officers", 9. hike monserrate on the weekend, update: what to know about covid in colombia.

Like most places around the world, Bogota has cases of coronavirus. However, travel to Colombia is possible. This is wonderful news for anyone eager to explore Bogota to see the famous street art and people-watch with a cup of coffee. 

Here's the latest on the pandemic in Bogota, Colombia: 

Colombia is open for travel! The guidelines are just slightly different depending on your vaccination status. If you are vaccinated, proof of vaccination is required to enter Colombia. If you are not vaccinated or partially vaccinated, you need negative results from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to travel or an antigen test taken no more than 48 hours prior to travel.

The Check-Mig registration form is required and must be completed 24 hours prior to travel. 

Face masks are required in certain municipalities. A local in Colombia can fill you in on the latest details.

Locals tell us that you'll have some fantastic choices when it comes to places to stay. Generally,  Bogota is safe —and locals say these neighborhoods are good spots to find a hotel or Airbnb. 

• Zona T (Zona Rosa) and Zona G : Locals say that these neighborhoods have a wealth of excellent restaurants and attractions nearby.
• North Chapinero and Usaquen: Full of fantastic street art and bars, you'll also find great  
• Soledad , Palermo , Parkway , and Cedritos :  These neighborhoods are more residential than touristy, but still very safe.
• La Candelaria:  Bogota’s oldest neighborhood and hub for street art . Just be cautious when walking around at night—given the area’s charms, it’s a hotspot for pickpockets looking for vulnerable travelers.

In addition, locals tell us that there are some neighborhoods you'll want to avoid. They tell just that, generally, the southern areas of Bogota are less safe. Avoid the following:

• Ciudad Bolívar
• San Cristóbal

What's your travel style ? Our trip planners can help you decide which neighborhood is a good match for you—and they'll share how they keep safe while navigating their hometown.

Locals suggest using Uber to get around Bogota . 

They say you  can  use taxis—these are cheap and easily found throughout Bogota—but travelers are sometimes scammed. So if you take a taxi, beware of  so-called “millionaire rides”— the nickname given to a well-known-if-infrequent Bogota scam in which taxi drivers mug their passengers.  

Sexual violence is still an issue in Latin America, but Bogota is known to be safer than most other major South American cities in that regard.  

Locals say if you are catcalled, don’t act nervous, and don’t respond to the calls —catcalling is a common nuisance in Bogotano culture, but will almost never escalate if ignored.

Many of our trip planners in Bogota are women who can help explain how they navigate the city safely. 

Spiked drinks are a common trap for both male and female travelers in Colombia. A Colombian drug called scopolamine , more commonly, Devil’s Breath, is odorless, tasteless,  and is sometimes used to incapacitate victims before a robbery . Like any other tranquilizer, it alters the victim’s memory, and inhibitions, and can be fatal in high doses. Be sure to watch your drink being made. 

As Colombia’s capital, Bogota is often the center of political demonstrations and protests. While crime is decreasing and police presence increasing, protests can, as in many other countries, get ugly—and quickly .

Foreign government interests are known to be a target , so don’t take a chance. To learn more about the safety situation in Colombia as a whole, read up on safety in Colombia .

A great tip for a traveler in any locale is to try and blend in. Travelers are the main targets for scams and pickpocketing so no matter how many days you’re in Bogota , don’t make yourself an easy target.

Bogota's weather is very mild due to its high altitude, and locals tell us that people tend to  dress more conservatively than other Colombians. To that end, make sure to wear jeans, closed-toed shoes (no flip-flops!), and a light jacket.

Locals suggest that you avoid wearing flashy jewelry, shorts, or sandals, as these articles of clothing will immediately mark you as a tourist. 

As in any large city, ATMs can act as a hub for lurking muggers. As a whole,  Bogota is safe and a great place to travel, but it’s better to be safe than sorry —take precautions when you withdraw money. Locals tell us you should avoid ATMs on the street, and instead use ones within a bank.

If a police officer approaches you asking for identification or money to “check if it’s counterfeit,” ask to see a badge. Then, request that they take you to the nearest police station to do so.

These “officers” are occasionally imposters (or simply corrupt officials) and will try to “confiscate” your money—or even plant drugs so that you have to pay a hefty fine.

Local tip : Carry a copy of your passport, so there’s no chance of your papers getting taken.

While Monserrate is one of the attractions that make Bogota such an incredible city , the mountain occasionally draws scam artists. The safest time to visit is during the weekend because locals attend church at the top of the mountain. As such, there are fewer prowlers targeting travelers.

Local tip :  Monserrate is not very safe after heavy rain due to slippage, so be sure to check the weather before your pilgrimage!

Like traveling to any big city, staying safe in Bogota is easy if you just follow a few simple tips — but don’t hesitate to ask us any questions and feel free to have one of our local Colombian experts create your perfect trip to Bogota. And b efore your trip, be sure to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• Is Bogota Safe?
• Colombia Tourism Safety Tips
• Cartagena Safety
• Colombia Visa Requirements

Looking for more info?

Is Bogotá Safe for Tourists? (2024)

When you think of Colombia, the one thing that may stand out is the country’s infamous drug cartels and the violence that follows. Truthfully, the country has come a long way in recent years, but does that mean the capital, Bogotá, is safe for tourists?

Colombia has some of the best places to live , with over 6 million tourists annually catching a glimpse of its vibrant charm. There’s no doubt that the capital, Bogotá, is one of these hotspots. Bogotá is far more than a safety status — it’s a colorful metropolis painted with soulful culture, deep history, divine dishes, and surrounding natural wonders.

If you’d like to peek into the world of Bogotá, your well-being is an undebatable priority during your stay. From the Borrachero spiking to hazardous taxis, this is the A to Z on safety for your trip.

Why Visit Bogotá?

Bogotá’s allure lies in its rich culture and history. La Candelaria district’s cobbled streets and colorful facades transport visitors to colonial times. Bolívar Square and nearby landmarks are testaments to Colombia’s fight for independence. The Gold Museum showcases pre-Columbian artifacts, providing insight into the country’s ancient cultures.

Bogotá  is a foodie’s haven where you can savor iconic dishes like Bandeja Paisa, a hearty rice platter, or Ajiaco, a flavorful chicken and potato soup. The city’s coffee culture is also a highlight, with specialty cafes immersing you in Colombia’s world-renowned coffee production.

The nearby Chingaza National Natural Park is a sanctuary of páramo landscapes, forests, and numerous lakes. You can also escape to the Monserrate summit by cable car or splash in the Tequendama Falls. With all of its wonders, Bogotá promises every visitor an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Is Bogotá Dangerous?

Bogotá has unfortunately earned a reputation for being an unsafe city due to high crime rates, including incidents of robbery, theft, and assault. However, in recent years, the local government has taken measures to improve safety, such as increasing the number of police officers on patrol and investing in a reliable transportation infrastructure.

These efforts have made the city more accessible to tourists, allowing you to explore the vibrant nightlife and rich culture of Bogotá with a greater sense of security.

Despite these improvements, it’s important to note that some areas in Bogotá are still considered dangerous – particularly at night. Visitors who are not careful can quickly get themselves in trouble, so it’s crucial to be vigilant and exercise safety measures such as not walking around at night.

By being aware of your surroundings and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable time in Bogotá.

Dangerous Areas in Bogotá

San cristóbal.

San Cristóbal is a locality in Bogotá predominantly plagued by poverty. Unfortunately, this subjects the area to a high crime rate, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. However, there are a couple of reasons why tourists might want to visit.

San Cristóbal is known for its diverse community and cultural attractions. This includes traditional events like the Saint Cristóbal Festival, local markets, unique colonial-era architecture, and the slopes of Cerro de Monserrate. If you do decide that this locality is somewhere you’d like to go, you need to travel with a trusted local guide during daylight hours.

South of La Candelaria

La Candelaria is where some tourists venture as it is one of the most iconic and historic neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find cobblestone streets with gorgeous Baroque and Art Deco architecture, street art, and numerous museums. It’s safe enough during the day, but as night falls, dangerous criminals lurk and you’re more susceptible to being mugged or worse. You should never walk around or go out in La Candelaria at night.

Anything south of this neighborhood is not worth traveling to, as it’s the most crime-ridden part of Bogotá. To add to the list, Ciudad Bolívar, Calle 9 Street, and the southern part of Barrio Egipto are known for muggings. Visiting these areas could put you in danger.

Is it Safe to Live in Bogotá?

A quick search into Bogotá’s crime rates will make you aware that the city is dangerous and not just for passers-by. The capital’s crime index sits at a high level of 66.56. This means that locals face many issues, including theft, street assaults, vehicle theft, home robberies, gang activity, and murder.

Although violent felonies are high, the problem is mainly localized to impoverished neighborhoods. If these harsher instances extend to higher-income areas, it usually has to do with drug trafficking. Opportunistic theft, such as pickpocketing and scams, are more common in the safer areas.

Safe Areas in Bogotá

Chapinero is a central area of Bogotá and is widely regarded as the trendiest and safest part of the city. It is a harmonious blend of residential and commercial zones. The neighborhood is known for its inclusivity and openness, particularly to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Chapinero is famous for its cultural diversity. The area offers various dining options ranging from gourmet food spots in Zona G to the lively nightlife, shopping, and entertainment of the Zona T.

Staying in Chapinero is a gateway to the neighborhood’s dynamic arts scene, including galleries, cultural centers, and theaters. Additionally, It is conveniently located close to some tourist attractions in Bogotá like Plaza de Lourdes and the Basilica Menor Nuestra Señora.

Zona Rosa’s safety has improved significantly in recent years due to the increased security measures and police presence within the district. Even though the area is generally safe during the day, you still need to be extra cautious at night.

The district has numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, which makes it a nightlife haven. It also offers a variety of daytime attractions. Deluxe shopping centers like Andino and El Retiro are perfect for a shopping spree. The Teatro Nacional La Castellana, where you can catch live performances and cultural events. Zona Rosa’s central location makes it convenient to explore other nearby attractions.

Teusaquillo

Teusaquillo is a charming residential neighborhood with cultural richness and green spaces. Safety in Teusaquillo is reasonably better than in other areas. However, you still need to be cautious and practice the same safety measures you would anywhere in Bogotá.

The neighborhood offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling urban areas in Bogotá. It is home to the iconic Simon Bolivar Park , with expansive lush vegetation and walking trails. You can also settle down at one of the many cozy cafes and local eateries. The neighborhood’s safety and attractions make it ideal for a laid-back yet authentic Bogotá experience.

Warnings & Dangers in Bogotá

If you practice the essential safety measures, Bogotá isn’t as eerily hazardous as it sounds. Firstly, you should keep to the safer areas of the city to avoid potential run-ins with dangerous characters. Petty theft is the primary (and avoidable) danger, and you should always keep your valuables hidden and away from being grabbed. This includes while walking and in restaurants (for example, don’t leave your phone on the table)

Walking around in the daytime is reasonably safe in well-traveled areas, but certain secure modes of transport are your best bet — more on this in a sec. The same cannot be said after dark; you should never risk being on the streets after the sun goes down.

Overall Travel Risk (6.5/10)

Although crime is rife, the tourist areas have a better police presence and lower crime rates, which makes travel in Bogotá less hazardous than its statistics suggest. That being said, there are still risks. These can be summarized into street crime, transport dangers, drink spiking, and, on the natural side of things, altitude sickness.

A word of warning must be said about the nightlife in Bogotá. You need to decide if it’s worth it because it is the highest chance of tourist danger. You should be okay in a group and in the safer areas of Chapinaro and Zona Rosa. Always have transport ready when you leave an establishment.

Street Crime

Ah, pickpockets — the top tourist worry in almost every big city worldwide. To prevent this in Bogotá specifically, you should never use your pockets unless they zip shut because Colombian thieves are pros. As for cash, you should split it up to avoid the all-eggs-in-one-basket drama. A moon bag or anti-theft travel bag should also do the trick.

The more terrifying ordeal of armed muggings, if all precautions have sadly failed, is best dealt with by surrendering. Give up your belongings without question because there’s no price tag on your life and safety.

Renting a car in Bogotá is not the best option as most of the city’s roads are crazy. Instead, you can use taxis, which are reasonably priced and safer. Only use legitimate taxis and avoid hailing one off the street, as it does risk a scam.

The top choice is to use ride-hailing apps like Cabify or Uber for a cheaper and more convenient alternative. You can also ask your hotel or accommodation to arrange transport for you.

Another option is the TransMilenio. It is an affordable, effective bus system, sometimes costing less than $1. But you should note that it is tricky to figure out the routes, and you need to be extra wary of pickpockets.

Spiked Drinks

Drink spiking is a common problem in Bogotá, and tourists are often a target. After spiking you, the perpetrator robs you, or it leads to worse things like sexual assault. Borrachero is usually the drug they use, which puts you in a zombie-like state. It is tasteless, odorless, and can be swiftly mixed into drinks, food, and cigarettes.

You should never leave your drink unattended and avoid accepting drinks or cigarettes from strangers. If you feel like you’re becoming drowsy, tell your friends or the staff so you can get to a place of safety. If your symptoms are severe, you need to go to a hospital.

Altitude Sickness

Bogotá is located in the Andean mountain range and is considered one of the highest-altitude cities in the world — reaching 8,600 feet (2600 meters) above sea level. Due to the high elevation, you may experience altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath.

To prevent altitude sickness, you need to drink plenty of water. You should steer clear of alcohol and caffeine for the first day or two if you start experiencing symptoms. You also need to give yourself a few days to adjust to the altitude before hiking or running to avoid over-exerting yourself.

Tips for Staying Safe in Bogotá

There are a few more things to know to keep your well-being in check during your stay. These top tips will keep you safe:

• Use trustworthy ATMs in daylight: ATMs are mugging hotspots, so you’ll want to use one indoors at a bank or a mall. .
• Plan your adventures: You need to know what routes you’re taking to avoid getting or looking lost, as this puts you at a higher risk of getting harassed or mugged.
• Keep tabs on the political climate: Demonstrations are common, and you’ll want to avoid them.
• Avoid drugs at all costs: It seems like something that goes without saying, but it will subject you to serious danger if you do involve yourself with the Colombian drug scene.
• Never hail a taxi: In some taxis, tourists get held at knifepoint and are forced to withdraw cash at ATMs.

Is Bogotá Safe? | Frequently Asked Questions

Is bogotá safe for solo travelers.

Bogotá is a city that is generally safe for solo travelers, but you’ll need to be extra cautious. Always read reviews to ensure you choose secure accommodation and transport services. You should never go out alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Is Bogotá Safe to Walk at Night?

No matter where you are, Bogotá is never safe to walk around after dark. Ever. If you’re enjoying the nightlife, you must have reliable transport ready before leaving. Walking in daylight is relatively safe in better areas, but you should always plan your route ahead of time to avoid getting lost.

Is Bogotá or Medellin Safer?

Both Bogotá and Medellin are generally safe enough for travel, but you must take precautions wherever you go in the country. Street crime, gangs, and drug trafficking are still prevalent in both cities, so it’s important to be vigilant and wise while traveling. While Medellin is considered to be more travel-friendly than Bogotá, it’s worth noting that it has a higher crime rate.

What Should I Be Careful Of in Bogotá?

While Bogotá is an exciting city to explore, you must be extra cautious of street crime like pickpocketing. Enjoying the nightlife does come at a higher risk of danger, mainly drink spiking, and you should never go out alone. You should be careful of taxis too and only use reliable services as there are instances where drivers hold you at knifepoint to extort you for money.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Bogotá Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

The capital of Colombia , Bogotá, is a city most people tend to pass through on their way to explore other areas of Colombia. They make an obligatory visit since they are in the country and go off to spend time somewhere “better.”

Most travelers say Bogotá is only worth a few days.

Those travelers are wrong.

I loved traveling around Bogotá. Devoid of a lot of the Gringofication you find in other parts of the country, it felt like the most Colombian of cities to me.

There is a lot to do here too. There are tons of museums, parks, activities, walking tours, food tours, nightlife options, and an incredible foodie scene. It has some dramatic scenery (it’s at the bottom of two mountains with a church on top of each) and has some amazing street art.

I think it is a really underappreciated city because too many travelers compare it to Medellín.

But, if you just take Bogotá for what it is, it’s an amazing destination. I ended up staying a lot longer than I originally planned and can’t wait to go back. Give the city a chance and spend a few extra days exploring it.

This travel guide to Bogota can help you plan a great trip there (and hopefully make you love it as much as I do).

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bogotá

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bogotá

1. Check out the view from Monserrate

You can walk 1,500 steps up to Bogotá’s famous Monserrate Church, which offers sweeping views from the mountaintop. It’s a steep climb so start early in the morning to beat both the sun and the crowds. There’s also a funicular if you don’t want to walk which costs 13,000 COP (7,500 COP on Sundays).

2. Admire the Street Art

Bogotá is all about its street art. Walk around areas like La Candelaria or Las Aguas area (by the TransMilenio station) and there are tons of beautiful murals. Take the Free Graffiti Tour Bogotá to get the best experience and context.

3. Visit the Botero Museum

Fernando Botero is the most famous Colombian artist and you can see his work all over the country. Bogotá Botero Museum hosts the largest collection of his work, with 123 pieces that were donated by the artist with the condition that the public could access them for free entry.

4. Take a Bike Tour

Bogotá is a huge city. One of the best ways to see a bit more of the city is by doing a bike tour. You not only get to see some of the more local areas, but most of the bike tours include a fruit and coffee tasting. Bogotá Bike Tours has tours starting at 45,000 COP and also offers standalone bike rental (30,000 COP for four hours).

5. See the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum)

The Museo del Oro has an impressive collection of gold artifacts that tell you the story of Colombia’s rich history. It’s not a huge museum but it’s one of the best in the country. The entrance fee is 4,000 COP but it’s free on Sunday.

Other Things to See and Do in Bogotá

1. tour casa de nariño.

Casa de Nariño is the president’s house. Beyond its attractive Neoclassical façade, its interior is filled with furniture, paintings, and sculptures from the Roman to the Renaissance era. They offer free tours Monday to Friday (you need to book online at least five days in advance), and they last around 45 minutes. If you don’t speak Spanish, be sure to request the tour in English. You can also watch the changing of the presidential guard on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 3:30pm.

2. Take a food tour

There are several food tours in Bogotá, including the Free Food Tour Bogotá which meets outside the Museo del Oro daily. The three-hour tour takes you around a few of the markets and gives you an overview of local fruits and traditional cuisine. Although the tour itself is free, you have to pay for your own food. You can register online or just turn up. There’s also La Macarena Gourmet Tour (305,000 COP per person), which takes you around Bogotá’s bohemian and artistic neighborhood. Their tour also lasts three hours and takes you to three different restaurants where you can sample a local dish and drink. Tours also include pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.

3. Taste Chicha in La Candelaria

La Candelaria is Bogotá’s oldest neighborhood and chicha is Colombia’s oldest alcoholic beverage so it makes sense to combine two historical experiences. Made from fermented corn, chicha has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years as people reconnect with their native heritage. There are many bars in La Candelaria serving it, especially on the street near Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo.

4. See the Iglesia de San Fransisco

Originally dedicated to St Francis of Assisi, San Francisco Church is one of the oldest churches in Bogotá (it was built between 1557 and 1621), with an eerily dark interior and a gorgeous gilded 17th-century altar. It was one of the few buildings that remained standing in the city center after the assassination of presidential candidate Jorge Eliécer Gaitán in 1948 (his assassination triggered a huge riot that killed 5,000 people as well as a ten-year civil war called La Violencia ). Admission is free.

5. Venture to La Chorrera Waterfall

Just an hour outside of Bogotá is the tallest waterfall in Colombia. Here you’ll also find some caves and a lookout point as well a restaurant and campsite. Admission starts at 35,000 COP (more expensive options include lunch or camping), and a guide is 40,000 COP. The alternative is to take a tour from Bogotá but those cost between 250,000-500,000 COP. The cheapest way to get there is to take the bus to Tercer Milenio, which costs as little as 7,500 COP each way. Be sure to check the times of the return busses at the tienda with the green roof when you get off the bus. From here, you can walk down to the trailhead.

6. Take a free walking tour

I always start my visits to a new city with a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main highlights on a budget. BeyondColombia has a great free walking tour that gives you a solid introduction to the city as it takes you through the city center. For a more specialized tour, check out the Bogotá Graffiti Tour. This one operates by donation, using the money raised to reinvest in future community art projects. Strawberry Tours and GuruWalk also offer free tours. Just remember to tip your guides!

7. Wander around La Candelaria

Bogotá’s historic and cultural neighborhood has narrow streets overflowing with artists selling their work, street art, hip cafes, and museums. It’s located between two of the city’s universities, so it’s often buzzing with students and young folks. Be sure to hang out on Plaza Del Chorro Del Quevedo as this small square often has a lot of street performers as well as an artist market.

8. Enjoy the nightlife in Zona Rosa

Most backpackers don’t venture out of La Candelaria and stick to the bars in that area. The Zona Rosa area is where most of the city’s expats live, and “Gringo Tuesdays” are always a lot of fun in La Villa nightclub if you want to party with the international crowd. Other popular places are Mint, the Colombian Pub, Zona T, and Morena Rooftop Bar.

9. Visit one of the many Sunday markets

Sunday is a great day for browsing the local markets. There is one close to Las Aguas station and one all the way up Carrera 7 before the pedestrian section ends on the right. If you want to eat some delicious street food you want the one on Carrera 7. The most popular stand is always the Lechona Tolimense, which sells roasted pig stuffed with rice.

10. Get on your Bike for Ciclovia

Every Sunday morning across Colombia the main roads in many of the big cities close for Ciclovia. Ciclovia is a government scheme to get people outdoors and exercise. People take to the streets on bikes, rollerskates, or they walk or run. Rent a bike and enjoy being part of this Sunday Colombian tradition! The cost of a bike rental for two hours is around 9,000 COP.

11. Visit the Cetedral de Sal

The Cathedral of Salt is just outside of Bogotá in a town called Zipaquirá. The Catholic Cathedral was built by the miners inside the tunnels of an old salt mine and is 200 meters below ground. Every Sunday, up to 3,000 people attend church services here. Just take the TransMilenio to Portal Norte and then take a small local bus to Zipa. Let the driver know where you are going so he can tell you when to get off. The entrance fee for non-residents is 60,500 COP and includes an audio guide.

12. Stroll in the Botanical Gardens

Opened in 1955, the Botanical Garden of Bogotá is home to almost 20,000 plants. There is a focus on regional plants, especially those that are endemic to the Andes and other high alpine regions of the continent. It’s a quiet, peaceful place to walk around, and there are some food stalls nearby, so you can grab a quick bite as you explore the gardens. Admission is 5,000 COP.

13. See the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen

The National Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen is a Gothic church located in La Candelaria. This church, built in Florentine Gothic style, has a red-and-white striped pattern inside and out that makes it look like a giant candy cane. It was designed by architect Giovanni Buscaglione who was also a Salesian priest in the Roman Catholic Church. Completed in 1938, the church stands almost 60 meters tall (196 feet) and has some incredible Byzantine and Moorish art inside it.

14. Visit Simon Bolívar Metropolitan Park

Created in 1979, this is one of the most popular parks in Bogotá and spans almost 1,000 acres (making it bigger than Central Park in New York!). You can find people exercising, relaxing, or attending concerts here every day of the week. It’s a relaxing place to chill out on the lakes, stroll the walkways, or even pop into the public library. There’s also a children’s museum, a recreation and amusement park, and several sports venues. The park is named after the famous Simón Bolívar, who led the liberation of the region from its Spanish overlords.

15. Explore Parque 93

This is the area of town with some of the best restaurants, nightclubs, and bars in the entire city. The park itself is home to an ongoing rotation of temporary art exhibitions. Located in one of the nicer areas of town, there are a lot of good restaurants and cafés lining the park.

16. Tour the National Museum of Colombia

Situated in the heart of Bogotá, this is the oldest and biggest museum in the entire country (and one of the oldest on the continent). Built in 1823, it’s home to over 20,000 pieces of art and historical artifacts, some dating as far back as 10,000 BCE. The building was used as a prison initially until it transitioned into a museum in 1946. If you’re a history buff or just want to learn more about the country, this museum is a must. Admission is 4,000 COP. It’s free on Wednesdays from 3pm-5pm and on Sundays.

17. Visit the Cathedral Metropolitan Basilica of Bogotá

This Roman Catholic cathedral spans 5,300 square meters, making it the biggest cathedral in Colombia and one of the biggest in South America. It’s been built four times on the same site, the most recent being between 1807-1823. The remains of Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, the founder of Bogotá can be found here.

18. Wander Plaza Bolivar

The main square of Bogotá is home to Colombia’s Palace of Justice, the Cathedral of Bogotá, the mayor’s office, and the Capitol Building. These buildings date back to as early as the 16th century, making Plaza Bolivar the historical heart of the city. Under the Spanish, the plaza was home to bullfights, circus acts, and public markets. Now it’s the perfect place for people-watching and admiring the architecture.

19. Head to the Laguna de Guatavita (Lake Guatavita)

Around 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of Bogotá, Lake Guatavita is a great place to escape from the city and breathe in some fresh air. This nature reserve is a sacred site to the region’s indigenous people and is apparently where the rumors of El Dorado originated. You can hike up the 150 steps to the top of the crater to admire the views and look down on the lake below (which is said to be hiding the gold of El Dorado). The Spanish actually tried to drain the lake to access the alleged gold hidden below but failed in their attempts. For extra relaxation, head to the hot springs in the nearby town of Sesquilé.

20. Explore the Museo Santa Clara

This museum is housed in a 17th-century church that is actually one of the oldest churches in the entire country. The government deconsecrated it in the 1960s and converted it into a museum. It has more than 148 baroque paintings that almost entirely cover its walls. I think it’s one of the most beautifully decorated churches in Colombia. Admission is 4,000 COP.

21. Get a snack from La Puerta Falsa

La Puerta Falsa (The False Door) is a tiny, yet hugely popular, restaurant with room for fewer than 20 people. The tamales and ajiaco soup have been community staples for generations – over 200 years in fact! This is one of the best places to try traditional Colombian food.

  For more information on specific destinations in Colombia, check out these guides:

• Cali Travel Guide
• Cartagena Travel Guide
• Medellín Travel Guide
• Santa Marta Travel Guide

Bogotá Travel Costs

Hostels – A bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs 20,000-35,000 COP per night, while a bed in an 8-10 -ed dorm costs between 15,000-25,000 COP. A private double room costs around 60,000-70,000 COP per night, though they can be found for as little as 30,000 COP. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Many include free breakfast as well.

If you just want to see the main tourist sites, I recommend staying in La Candelaria so you’re within walking distance of everything. If you are staying in the city for more than a few nights and are more interested in enjoying Bogotá’s vibrant nightlife, then I recommend staying in the slightly pricier Zona Rosa or Chapinero.

Budget hotels – Budget hotels are plentiful in Bogotá and a room in a two-star hotel costs 110,000-150,000 per night. Expect amenities like free Wi-Fi, AC, and sometimes free breakfast.

Airbnb is also available in the city, with private rooms starting at 60,000 COP per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices average about 235,000 COP per night.

Food – Colombian food is a blend of indigenous, Caribbean, and European traditions. While ingredients and popular dishes vary by region, common staples include maize, potato, cassava, rice, and all kinds of tropical fruit (dragon fruit, papaya, guava, passionfruit). Fried plantains, chicken soup, tamales, empanadas, meat pies, and roasted piglet are just some of the delicious popular dishes you’ll encounter.

Overall, the food in Bogotá is cheap. If you’re on a budget, you can easily eat for under 45,000 COP a day here. Whether it’s an arepa (a maize dough bun filled with meat or cheese) for less than 4,000 COP, an empanada for 2,500 COP or ajiaco (a hearty dish of chicken breast, potatoes, fresh corn, and more) for lunch for as little as 15,000 COP, there are plenty of cheap options for eating out in Bogotá when it comes to fast food.

For a mid-range restaurant with table service, expect to pay around 40,000 for a three-course meal. A meal at a higher-end restaurant costs at least 70,000 per course. If you want to have a drink, add around 10,000-15,000 COP.

Fast food (thick McDonald’s) costs about 18,000 COP for a combo meal. A beer at a bar costs about 9,000 while buying it at a store is a little over half that price. A latte or cappuccino costs around 4,800 COP.

My favorite places to eat in Bogotá are Mesa Franca, Salvo Patria, El Chato, and Prudencia.

OXXO stores are a great place to stock up on snacks and alcohol — most are open 24 hours. For a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay around 80,000-90,000 COP.

Backpacking Bogotá Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Bogotá, my suggested budget is 125,000 COP per day. This is assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking some meals and getting a free hostel breakfast, taking the free walking tours, using local transportation or walking everywhere, and limiting your drinking.

A mid-range budget of 230,000 COP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eating cheap street food for most meals, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities like visiting museums and doing a food tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 500,000 COP per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in COP.

Bogotá Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bogotá is fairly inexpensive to visit as it’s not as “gringofied” and touristy as other destinations in the country. I didn’t find myself spending that much money while I was in the city despite not trying to save. But, if you’re looking to save some extra money when you visit, here are my suggested ways to spend less in the city:

• Take a free walking tour – There are a few free walking tours available, making for a great introduction to the city. This is the best (and cheapest!) way to explore while getting a detailed overview of the city and its culture and history. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! I recommend BeyondColombia or the Bogotá Graffiti Tour .
• Eat like locals – It’s easy to eat on a budget here if you stick to Colombian food. Avoid sit-down restaurants and Western food and you can eat for cheap without breaking the bank.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap here, but staying with a local makes it free! Not only will you save some money, but you get firsthand knowledge from a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Cook your own meals – While eating out isn’t too expensive here, if you’re on a budget it is cheaper if you cook your own meals. Head to a local grocery store and save your budget!
• Skip the cocktails – Colombia has a lot of awesome cocktail bars now, but these drinks are expensive. If you’re on a budget, skip the cocktails and stick to beer.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is safe so bring a water bottle with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Walk everywhere – If you don’t mind walking, this is the easiest and cheapest way to explore the city. Most of the main sights are well within walking distance if you are staying in the La Candelaria area.

Where to Stay in Bogotá

Bogotá is a huge city, and it’s divided into different Estratos, or zones. When booking accommodation, be sure to check the area as many areas in the city are unsafe. La Candelaria is the most popular with backpackers, although it is reasonably safe during the day you should use caution at night.

Two areas of the city considered safer are Zona Rosa and Chapinero; they are both more expensive areas, and they are too far away from downtown to walk to all of the main tourist attractions.

With that in mind, here are some of my suggested places to stay in Bogotá:

• Selina (Chapinero)
• The Cranky Croc Backpackers Hostel (La Candelaria)
• Masaya (La Candelaria)
• Botinico Hostel (La Candelaria)

How to Get Around Bogotá

If you like to walk, stay in La Candelaria. All of the main attractions and sights are quite walkable from here, which saves you money on transportation.

If you are staying in another area of Bogotá, or want to travel by public transport to one of the malls or places of interest outside Bogotá, you are going to need to use the TransMilenio, also known as the BRT (bus rapid transit system).

Public transportation – The main method of public transportation is on the TransMilenio. This is effectively a bus service that has its own bus lane in the center of the main roads in Bogotá. If you want to get anywhere fast, it is often far better to travel by TransMilenio than by car, as the traffic in Bogotá can be dreadful.

To travel on the TransMilenio, you need to buy a TuLlave Card for 5,000 COP and then top it up. This needs to be paid for in cash as credit cards are not accepted. Once you have your card, you just tap the card to enter the station where you are charged 2,300 COP. From there, you can make two changes within 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Using the TransMilenio during the day and in the early evening is safe, but I would avoid using public transport after 9pm, especially if you are alone.

To efficiently plan your route on public transport in Bogotá, download an app called Moovit. Google maps can be unreliable, and the TransMilenio App is ok, but they only have a Spanish version.

Taking the TransMilenio from the airport to La Candelaria is the cheapest and quickest way into the city center. It costs 2,300 COP. When you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to the TransMilenio then take a bus to Universidades. You need to get off at Las Aguas and then walk through the park towards the OXXO. This is the start of La Candelaria. If you are staying anywhere else, you can change buses, or take an Uber or Tapsi Taxi.

Taxis – If you want to get a taxi, then download an app called Tapsi or Easy Taxi. They work just like Uber although they won’t charge your card, so you need to pay cash. It is by far the safest way to take a taxi if you need one.

I would strongly advise against taking a taxi off the street in Bogotá. As a general rule, cabs are not safe for tourists, even during the daytime (more about this in the safety section). If you need a ride, ask your hotel/hostel staff to arrange one for you.

The one exception is the airport taxis as they are safe. A taxi from the airport to La Candelaria should cost you no more than 50,000 COP (and probably less). If you are staying in the North of the city it should cost no more than 65,000 COP.

Although Uber is not legal in Colombia, it is widely used and considered as safe as using Tapsi or Taxi Fast.

Bike rental – If you want to rent a bike to get around, bikes cost around 9,000 COP for a two-hour rental. Just stick to main roads to be safe as even bikers can be mugged.

When to Go to Bogotá

Bogotá doesn’t really have seasons, so there is no bad time to visit. Because of the altitude, it is often cold, and it does rain a lot. The drier months are from December to March, so if you prefer to avoid the rain, this would be the best time to go. Expect temperatures around 14°C (57°F).

If you prefer the heat, the warmest months are from May to June where temperatures average around 20°C (68°F).

The busiest time of year to visit Bogotá is during July and August, during Bogotá Carnival. Prices increase a lot during this time and you need to book accommodations well in advance, however, the city is super lively and it’s a fun time to visit if you want to party.

How to Stay Safe in Bogotá

Safety is one of the biggest concerns for people when planning a trip to Bogotá. They have a common saying in Colombia, “No dar papaya” which translates as “don’t give papaya.” What it really means is though don’t give anyone the chance to steal your stuff by walking around and being flashy or reckless. You need to be very cautious here.

That means no walking around with your phone out, never keeping anything in your pockets (especially when on public transport), and always keeping hold of your bag. If you are eating out, either keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. It is very common for someone to try to do a bag swap (meaning they swap their empty bag for yours).

You should also use caution when withdrawing money from ATMs. Avoid the ATMs on the street and go into the bank to use the ATM, that way you can put your money away discreetly without being watched.

There aren’t many common street “scams” in Bogotá. Anything serious is going to revolve around straight-up armed robbery.

Trust me on this. My friend was robbed here. And so was I. I learned what happens when you let your guard down here .

If you do run into any problems, there are tourist police all over the downtown area. Often just shouting loudly can stop a thief in their tracks as the tourist police don’t take kindly to crime against tourists.

Additionally, beware of getting into random taxis as the really serious crime against foreigners here is what is commonly referred to as “paseo millonarios” (“millionaire rides”). The taxi driver picks up a tourist (quite often a solo traveler or a couple) and then makes a stop to pick up some ‘”friends.” They then take the passenger(s) to an ATM and make them withdraw as many pesos as they can get. They continue to drive the tourist around, usually by gunpoint to different ATMs until they have withdrawn all of the money possible. Then they will leave the tourist somewhere to make their own way back. To avoid this, never get in a taxi off the street.

There are a few “no-go” areas in the city, but as a tourist, you shouldn’t ever find yourself accidentally wandering into one of these areas. As a general rule, don’t go south of La Candelaria, and stay over on the eastern side of the city (the mountainside).

I don’t want to be all doom and gloom but, as much as I LOVE Bogotá, there is crime here and you have to really be careful. Do not let your guard down. That doesn’t mean crime is happening everywhere. It’s not. If you use common sense and follow what the locals do, nothing is going to happen to you. I spent so long in Colombia that I let my guard down and that was a mistake.

If you experience an emergency and need assistance, dial 123.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Colombia, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bogotá Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Bogotá Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Colombia and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Bogotá: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Medellín: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Colombia Safe to Visit?

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Colombia?

14 Things to Do in Medellín (and the ONE thing NOT to do!)

My 21 Favorite Places to Visit in Colombia

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Is Bogota Safe? Bogota Safety Guide

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Is Bogota safe for tourists? When planning my trip to Colombia, my biggest concern as a solo female traveler was Bogota safety. I heard horror stories warning me about how unsafe Bogota in Colombia is, the El Paseo Millonario taxi rides, and the pickpocketing. However, I’d also read several blog posts claiming there is nothing to worry about since Bogota is one of the safest cities in Colombia.

In my personal experience, Bogota is far from a safe city, but neither is New York City or any other big city! In this post, I’m sharing essential Bogota safety tips to answer all your questions about “Is it safe to go to Colombia?”

As I am a woman (and this is a solo female travel blog), this Bogota safety advice is aimed at women. However, much of it is also suitable for men traveling in Bogota .

Where is Bogota?

Bogota is located in central Colombia, at an elevation of over 8,000 feet. It is the capital and the country’s largest city. Bogota is about an 8.5-hour drive from Medellin and a 9-hour drive from Cali.

How Safe is Colombia?

Every city in Colombia has unique safety concerns to be aware of. Bogota is very different from other Colombian cities. That’s why this Bogota safety post doesn’t cover Medellin , Cali , or the Caribbean Coast . While there are common themes, I consider Bogota a bit more dangerous than these other locations.

I lived in Bogota for several months. I worked in the city and traveled around on public transport during the day and night. While living there, I was almost robbed once and had my phone stolen on the Transmillenio.

Bogota is a dangerous city, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go. It means you should educate yourself and take precautions. Bogota is a wonderful city I highly recommend visiting!

They have a saying in Colombia that you should remember: “No dar papaya.” It translates to “don’t give papaya” (the fruit), which means: don’t give anyone the chance to steal your belongings. Is Colombia dangerous? Petty theft is somewhat common in Colombia . If you leave your phone on the table, expect to get it stolen. I LOVE Colombia, but this is the worst thing about the country. It is exhausting constantly watching your things, but it is the only way!

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Is Bogota Colombia Safe? Bogota Safety Concerns

The most common Bogota safety concerns to be aware of are:

Pickpockets

• Drink spiking

I’m breaking down each of these to help you stay safe while visiting Bogota. I almost had my bag stolen in Bogota—well, he did steal it, but I ran down the street screaming, and he gave it back to me! I also had my phone stolen. I spent over two months living in La Candelaria , which is considered a pretty unsafe place. All that to say, I have firsthand knowledge to answer your questions about “How safe is Bogota Colombia?”

How dangerous is Colombia for solo female travelers? I suggest women NEVER get in a taxi on the streets of Bogota. Bogota taxis are unsafe—the best case is they will take you on a nice tour of the city that you didn’t ask for to run up the meter. Worst case, you will experience the El Paseo Millonario ride.

These might not happen daily, but it ‘s a common enough occurrence to have a name. I know a couple who were held hostage at gunpoint for several hours and forced to withdraw large sums of money from ATMs throughout the city. Chances are you would be fine, but don’t take the risk when you can easily get a taxi using Tapsi, Uber, Beat, DiDi, or Cabify. All of these apps can be downloaded to safely hail a taxi in Bogota.

While Uber does work in Bogota, there is hostility between the taxi and Uber drivers. When using a ride-sharing app, sit in the front of the car so you can pretend the driver is a friend. That way, there is less chance of the driver getting yelled at by a taxi driver! 

Need Transportation in Colombia?

I highly recommend booking Colombia transportation with GottoGo . You can search for buses, shuttles, ferries, and flights on their website—I love their customer service. I know them personally from my time living in Guatemala, and they genuinely care for their customers. If a delay occurs and you miss your bus, call them for help. If you book through GottoGo, you will pay more than at the bus station, but it’s worth it for the ease and security. Click here to search for transportation in Colombia.

One of my top Bogota safety tips is to never put anything in your pocket. I also suggest you wear your backpack around the front. I found out about this one the hard way! This is important if you travel on the Transmillenio system.

During my time in Bogota, I used Transmillenio daily and never put anything in my pockets. One day, I was tired and put my phone in my pocket in a rush to get on the packed bus. Five minutes later, it was gone. As easy as that!

Bag Theft and Petty Crime

Is it safe to go to Colombia as a backpacker? The main concern is having your bags or personal belongings stolen. If you are in a cafe, don’t put your phone on the table and don’t leave your bag on the floor. Either have it in your lap or attached to your body.

On my third day in Bogota , I was having a coffee and reading my book in a coffee shop with my bag on the floor. A guy walked in and stood by me for a few minutes, dropped his bag, and picked mine up. I noticed as soon as he walked out, and when I looked down, my bag was gone.

I ran out of the coffee shop screaming like a crazy person. There are police EVERYWHERE in La Candelaria . If a gringa starts screaming, it draws the kind of attention thieves don’t want. Lucky for me, he dropped the bag on the street and ran off!

Choose your ATM wisely when in Bogota. Due to ATM charges, I always withdrew the maximum amount per transaction. Doing this on the street made me really nervous, and walking home with a bag full of money isn’t ideal. There are several ways you can safely withdraw money in Bogota or at least minimize the risks:

• Find an ATM inside a bank rather than one on the street.
• Don’t put all your money together—I prefer to split my money up. I put a little in my purse, some in the pocket of my bag, and the largest amount in my bra . I always wear my leggings with a secret pocket to store money and my ATM card.
• Go straight back to your accommodations . Take the fastest route and don’t stop!

Drink Spiking

One of the most common concerns when discussing “Is Colombia safe to travel to?” is drink spiking. There is a well-known drug in Colombia called Borrachero that pretty much turns you into a zombie. Be really careful with your drink when you are out drinking, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. This is common across Colombia , not just in Bogota.

I must be honest, I was living in a dangerous part of town far from my friends. The whole time I lived in Bogota, I never went out because I didn’t want to risk getting home alone.

Is Bogota Safe? FAQs

How safe is bogota colombia downtown.

La Candelaria might be safe during the day, but it is not safe at night. I lived there for two months, and I felt scared walking home from work most evenings. There is a lot of street crime with people being mugged outside their hotels. Read this guide about where to stay in Bogota —I break down all of the different areas where it’s safe to stay.

If you have a short time in Bogota, most people stay in La Candelaria because it’s the most convenient place. However, if you are staying longer than two days, go further north in the Chapinaro area (Parque 93, Zona T, or Zona Rosa). These neighborhoods have far better nightlife than Candelaria and are much safer. You can safely walk around at night in these areas, unlike La Candelaria. To get downtown for the tourist attractions , take the Transmillenio or book a taxi.

There is no real reason to travel further south than La Candelaria , so don’t. It isn’t safe, and there is nothing to see. Bogota is a huge city with plenty of places to explore in the north!

Is Bogota Safe for Hiking?

Bogota has some amazing hikes , but they can be dangerous. Before you go on any treks, check with locals about any issues to be aware of. Better yet, hire a Colombian buddy to take you!

If you want to walk up Monserrate , only do it when the police are out, as it’s a hotspot for muggings. The safest time to go is on a Sunday morning when the trail is packed with locals. If you go during the week, the best time is between 6:00-9:00 a.m. when the path is guarded. Don’t hi ke unless you see police or guards.

Is it Safe to Travel to Bogota Colombia With Jewelry and Designer Clothes?

If you don’t want to draw attention, dress down. Leave the flashy clothes and jewelry at home and try and blend in as much as possible. I’m 5’8″ with blond hair and blue eyes, so it is hard for me to blend in! I wore a hat a lot and dressed in dark clothes while in Bogota.

Why is Colombia So Dangerous? Politics in Bogota

Are you asking yourself, “Is Colombia safe for tourists?” I would say yes, as long as you stay out of political matters. Politics plays a large role in tension and civil unrest throughout Colombia. Since Bogota is the capital city, there are many protests and political marches. I lost count of how many I saw during my time there. To avoid getting caught up in these potentially volatile situations, avoid walking through protests and marches. The best way to stay safe is to avoid these political events as much as possible.

Where to Stay in Bogota

If you are staying longer than 24 hours, I recommend Chapenero over La Candelaria . Hotels I recommend include:

Hotel Morrison Selina Chapinaro Hotel Living 55 93 Luxury Suites & Residences

If you are only in town for one night, I suggest these La Candelaria accommodations:

Selina La Candelaria Casa Artistica Arche Noah Boutique Hostel

For a convenient airport hotel, check out the Radisson AR Bogota Airport .

Is Bogota Safe for Tourists? Final Thoughts

I wanted to write this post because I feel people, especially women traveling alone , should be as informed as they can when discussing, “Is Bogota Colombia safe?” I read several misleading posts saying Bogota is one of the safest cities in Colombia, and it made me a little mad. Yes, those writers may not have had any personal issues. However, Bogota is far from safe, and it is misleading to say so.

That said, I highly recommend spending a few days in Bogota . How safe is Colombia? If you are careful and remember these Bogota safety tips, you shouldn’t have any problems. Be aware of the dangers and stay cautious—always listen to your gut!

This post was proofread by Grammarly .

Monday 12th of December 2022

Thank you for this post! I am from a Scandinavian country and we have zero safety thinking so I really need to read about common sense in countries where the situation is different. No point in sugar-coating and relativizing the safety situation to other countries, that is not helpful at all :-) So thanks!

Sunday 13th of February 2022

Thank you for a practical and illuminating breakdown. It is greatly appreciated.

Wednesday 17th of January 2024

@Claire, I'm a seasoned traveller and in April I'm off to Bogota for the third time. This time though I'm spending a week there and really "doing it over". Your blog is just fabulous. Most of the things you highlight I'm aware of but it's still good to see the pitfalls laid out coherently in written form. Thank you.

Tuesday 10th of March 2020

I am 50 years old man, always a solo traveler, but your article is superb and very educational, thanks for gathering and sharing all this info with us, poeple like you make this world a better place.

Thursday 13th of February 2020

Claire, your articles are very well written, good fun and they have lots of great tips. This one, though, doesn’t correspond to the figures reported by all sources. Bogotá, a city of nearly 9 million inhabitants, is actually safer than Cali or Medellin. Its not a question of opinion or perception. If you divide the amount of inhabitabts by the amount of crimes the reality will pop out (even from independent sources). The “paseo millonario” doesn’t occurr only in Bogotá. In all colombian cities, the crime is not distributed evenly: if you go to dangerous neighborhoods you’ll get in trouble. I suggest that for this kind of subjects you investigate from reliable sources rather than from opinions from friends; perception is a different thing.

Claire Summers

Having lived in both Bogotá and Medellín this is my opinion. This is my blog and I'm entitled to my opinion on this matter. I felt far safer in Medellin than in Bogotá no amount of stats will change my opinion on that. In Bogotá I was robbed twice and came across far more issues than I ever did in Medellín... No facts you produce will change that fact. Thanks for taking the time to comment but you won't change my mind on this. Plus this is a blog for women so...

Dalia Jimenez

Saturday 2nd of November 2019

Is legal to use cabify in el dorado airport in bogota?

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

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Home » South America » Travel Safety

Is Colombia Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips 2024)

Colombia used to be considered one of the most dangerous countries in the world. Rife with violence, even as late as 2002, it had one of the highest homicide rates in the world. So some people thought I was on a death wish when I booked a one-way flight there.

But today it’s another story. With a BOOMING tourism sector, Colombia is now a popular destination with glowing beaches, dense rainforests, momentous mountains, and rich history.

However, though the civil war ‘officially’ ended in 2016, drug trafficking and militias are still active. So is Colombia safe? Or just how dangerous is Colombia?

Don’t worry. The Broke Backpacker team LOVE this country, so with this guide for safe travel in Colombia, you’ll have an amazing time AND stay safe whilst doing it!

We’ll look at whether it’s safe to use public transportation (spoilers: YES), safety in remote areas , getting around Colombia safely, and everything else in between. We’ll even talk travel tips for female solo travelers.

Whether you’re thinking about backpacking through Colombia alone or long-term, or if you’re just worried about an upcoming two-week trip, it’s ok. I’ve got you! Here’s the full story: staying safe in Colombia goes like this .

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Colombia Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Colombia.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

Is Colombia Safe to Visit Right Now?

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Yes! It absolutely is safe to travel to Colombia , today. Around 5,188,312 international visitors were welcomed in Colombia from January to November 2023 as recorded by Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism . Most tourists had a secured visit.

But let me flip that on its head too… Is it dangerous to backpack Colombia? Well… yes, it can be too. It makes a huge difference to know a few tips for staying safe in Colombia.

The truth is, most places in the world are dangerous in some form or another . Colombia has one of the fastest-growing tourist markets globally. It’s hard to argue with the millions of tourists who visit and leave totally unaffected.

Regardless of the status of travel advisories, Colombia is the new darling of South American travel . The country has been ‘rediscovered’ despite the misconception that it’s unsafe to visit Colombia. 

You might think of Pablo Escobar and drug-related criminal activity, but today Colombia is becoming increasingly estranged from its violent past . Though not the safest place in the world, serious progress is happening. 

So what do we have to consider with safety in Colombia? Crime rates remain relatively high but that’s mainly involving petty theft (mugging and pickpocketing) – so there are areas to avoid. Kidnappings and illegal armed groups are extremely rare now but are still a slight risk.

Landmines are an ongoing issue. Then there’s nature; earthquakes occur regularly, intense rains cause landslides, and there are dangerous critters lurking in the jungles. Needless to say, security situations can change pretty quickly.

However, that doesn’t keep the tourists away, nor backpackers, and it shouldn’t keep you away either . Tourism is BIG news here. Colombia is safe to visit these days with sensible heads on….

Stick to the main routes or go with a reputable tour company. If you’re visiting the Lost City , you have to book a tour. You may be backpacking, but sticking to the tourist routes is probably your safest bet right now.

In Colombia, when choosing a city to visit or good hostels to stay in , research and caution are essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area. 

To help you out, here are some of the safest areas to visit in Colombia below.

Quick side note: all of these areas we’re going to list below can be dangerous if you act carelessly. To stay safe, stick to our safety tips and use your travel common sense.

Don’t let the news and prejudices about this glorious country stop you. I’ve been backpacking in Bogota and other major cities and it quickly turned Colombia into one of my favourite countries. They can all be visited safely. 

• Cartagena – On Colombia’s Caribbean coast, it’s an old port city within a walled city. When visiting Cartagena , Bocagrande is the safest neighbourhood to stay in – home to gated communities and wealthy Colombians with CCTV cameras and security everywhere.
• Medellin – With Pablo Escobar gone, life in the city changed: violent crime plummeted. In fact, today it’s safer than many other major cities in South America. One of the best areas to stay in Medellin is the Laureles Neighborhood.
• Minca – This little mountain town attracts floods of tourists. For that, you’re well protected and very few problems are reported. 
• Eje Cafetero (The Coffee Region) – One of the most chill areas to stay in Colombia, you can explore beautiful, small towns and interact with friendly locals. Many towns are safe to walk around at night, too. 

Dangerous Places in Colombia

We don’t necessarily align our thoughts with the US government, but this time we do and with good reason: I strongly recommend you take the advice. At present, the USA Government travel advice for Colombia restricts travel to these high-risk areas: 

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán)
• Norte de Santander
• The Colombia-Venezuela border 

There is absolutely no reason for tourists to visit these places anyway. Travel to Venezuela is an extremely bad idea in the current climate. 

So yeah, not all places in Colombia are safe. Yet there are some places considered “unsafe” by some but can be visited safely – with extra precautions and vigilance. Here are some of those places:

• Cali (Santiago de Cali) – Cali is known to be Colombia’s most dangerous and violent city. You COULD visit it, but your overall safety will shoot up if you decide to stay away. 
• Bogota – There are good reasons to visit the capital city and Bogota IS safe , but statistically it’s got the second highest crime rate in Colombia.
• Central Medellin – In general, this city is a safe destination for travellers, but avoid the city centre. This is where the vast majority of the problems are reported. 
• Barranquilla – A super cool place to experience Carnival de Barranquilla , but a high crime rate for Colombia, in general. If you head to the festival, check out these hostels in Barranquilla where you can meet friends before getting out.

It’s important to know that you CAN be safe in Colombia, but you need research. Basically, your general rule is, the more tourists, the less chance you have of encountering serious issues: the second rule is the more tourists, the more chance you have of petty issues. So decide your balance between major cities and small towns.

Avoid ANYWHERE at night (unless locals tell you otherwise) and always ask locals which areas you should avoid. A bit of caution goes a long way!

Keeping your money safe in Colombia

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Most visits to Colombia are trouble-free. But knowing a few safety tips for Colombia really helps. Here are our top Colombia safety tips:

• Monitor local media – stay up to date with security issues and weather.
• Don’t look rich – ideal targets for potential thieves.
• Carry a decoy wallet – Have a few pesos in a crappy throwaway.
• Split your cash up – and hide it well . You DO NOT want to lose all your money at once.
• Say no to illegal cabs – no, no, no, no. Nope. Never a smart move.
• Don’t use ATMs after dark – thieves operate best at night and ATMs are the perfect spot.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa – local cops don’t get paid a lot and can hassle tourists who don’t carry these.
• Learn some Spanish – this will get you far.
• Be aware of scams – more info on this to come.
• Be responsible with drugs – sensible head on at all times. 
• Watch your belongings in crowds – an easy place for pickpockets.
• IF someone wants to rob you, don’t resist – your money, or your life, is not worth it.
• Go with a well-reviewed guides on treks – they know where to walk and will spot the venomous snakes that you’d step on.
• Know your limits – getting dead drunk, high, and exhausted isn’t a good idea.
• DON’T walk around at night – always get a cab.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• NEVER accept drinks or cigarettes from strangers – politely turn them down. Scopolamine spiking happens.
• Avoiding political protests and demonstrations – It’s not the time.

Safety tips for Colombia don’t vary much from anywhere else in the world. Staying safe isn’t too difficult. Traveling smart and trusting your instincts is key!

Yes, Colombia is safe to travel alone. However, that doesn’t mean you can wander around the country without a care in the world. 

Here are a few travel safety tips for Colombia to keep in mind when you travel by yourself to Colombia.

• Meet other travelers – There’s safety in numbers. Plus, it’s the best way to beat the “solo traveling blues” and share travel tips.
• Read reviews – for staying in good hostels or going on organized tours.
• Blend in – Look at what other people are wearing. A singlet and short shorts isn’t always a good idea.
• The same goes for talking loudly – shouting around in English (or your native language) makes you stand out like a BEACON.
• Get some Spanish in your brain – If you’re lost, this will help you become un-lost. If you want to meet locals, this is how. Learning at least a little bit of Spanish goes very, very far.
• Trust your gut – If something doesn’t feel right, get out of there. Be smart, but also remember that Colombians are REALLY friendly in essence. 
• Don’t listen to fear-mongering stories – Tourism is still in its infancy here meaning people are happy to see you and chat (which is why Spanish helps).
• Be aware of travel warnings – especially at border areas. 
• Head out into nature, see the smaller towns, but stick to tourist areas where other backpackers are , and you’ll be fine.

I’m confident that Colombia is safe to travel alone. I know because I’ve done it and met many others who have too. 

It’s not be the best place for a nervous first-time solo traveler, but if you’re smart and flexible, you’ll be better prepared for this amazing new experience and to be welcomed into a vibrant society!

Well we’ve established that Colombia is safe for solo travelers. But when it comes to being a female solo traveler , there are always other things to consider – sad but true.

Everyone, regardless of gender, should be able to travel where they want. For that matter, a lot of women (despite audible concerns) travel to Colombia anyway. 

It may not be the safest places in the world to visit for women travelling alone, but it shouldn’t be overlooked for women altogether. Many women travel to Colombia alone, perfectly safely! But here are some things to know:

• Colombia is still a pretty macho society – Catcalls are still accepted behaviour. Ignore it, walk by, and be confident. This is part of the culture and society you’re visiting and reacting won’t make your day any better.
• Dress according to the destination – some areas can be surprisingly conservative.
• Get a SIM card – Keep in touch with people back home.
• Do your research – Are there security concerns? Is this hostel good for solo females ?
• Don’t drink too much – Keep clear judgements.
• Remember: most of the violent crime you hear about is gang-related i.e. gangs attacking other gangs.
• Take taxis but DON’T hail one – Download a taxi app or get your hostel to call you one. 
• Don’t leave your bag on the floor – even literally right next to you.
• Make a fuss – Shout and alert people nearby. This will likely spook any would-be thief. Ideally, get the attention of tourist police. Tourism is important for Colombia, and they want to make sure you don’t leave with any bad stories to take home with you.
• Try not to look lost – It’s a good way to look like a target.

Lastly, and most importantly, YOU CAN ALWAYS SAY NO .

Cartagena (Bocagrande)

Cartagena can actually be a very safe place to visit, especially if you choose the right area. A very wealthy but also very secure area is Bocagrande. It’s a great family and expat heaven.

Is it safe to go to Colombia with your kids? Maybe you’ve watched too much Narcos, but if you’re thinking this is a drug-riddled war-zone, you couldn’t be more wrong.  

It’s not easy, but most definitely Colombia is safe to travel for families. For example, the UK’s advice for travel to Colombia has no overall restrictions.

All sorts of tourists are heading to check out the hidden-in-plain-sight gem that is Colombia. Everybody’s welcome and that goes for families too.

Colombia is a country on the up. The arts and literary scenes are flourishing, tourism is booming, and you’ll be happy to know that  Colombian culture is family oriented.  There’s you as an individual – and then there’s the family as a whole, which is usually the center of a Colombian person’s life.

On top of that, family-friendly activities and adventurous outdoor exploration abound. You can spend nights in a jungle treehouse, play around on beach havens, and trek through cloud forests, amongst other things.

Without a doubt, Colombia is safe for families to travel. Take all the usual precautions that you would when traveling with children (medication, snacks, first aid kit, etc. etc.) and you’ll all have an unforgettable time.

Honestly, it’s not totally safe to drive in Colombia . Unless you’re a super-confident driver, it’s not worth the stress. If you’re planning on driving in Colombia, take extra precautions choosing your route. 

Only take well-established routes between tourist areas. More rural areas put you at risk of being pulled over, questioned, or worse. Road conditions vary a lot.

Don’t drive at night. There are too many hidden hazards.

One thing I’ve learned in Colombia is that traveling on public transport is safer. Bus travel is your buddy in Colombia. Companies vary in levels of quality, so do your research.

Night buses are safe in Colombia. Though, comfort is a luxury here, especially traveling long-distance.

Colectivos (minibuses) or busetas (local buses) are used for short-distance travel. These are relatively safe AND cheap. Just always be aware of pickpockets.

Other than the Medellin Metro , there are no public trains in Colombia. Though there is the Turistren (yes, tourist train ) between Bogota and Zipaquira. It’s safe to travel by train in Colombia this way.

When using taxis in Colombia, ONLY USE OFFICIAL TAXIS . Ask your accommodation where to find these. Illegal taxis are active and you don’t want to find out the consequences of using them.

Better yet, Uber is safe in Colombia. They’re much safer and cheaper than taxis. They also have local taxi apps which work great. 

Air travel is safe and convenient in Colombia if you don’t mind the carbon footprint. Overall, and surprisingly, public transport is safe in Colombia.

Pro Safety Tip: Downloading an app called Tappsi is a good way to check taxis. You’ll know the car’s registration and driver’s ID and they’ll log the journey.

So, unfortunately, scams do happen in Colombia and scammers target tourists. I wholeheartedly believe that most of them are not bad people: many are just less fortunate and scamming tourists is a quick fix for their situation. 

Serious and violent crime is rare – express kidnappings, sexual assault, drug cartels, and murder shouldn’t scare you here, we want to avoid petty theft too. One of the best ways to avoid being scammed is to understand how they are practised. Here are some typical examples:

• The overpriced service – Ask for prices before you accept a service.
• Fake taxis – no, not that kind – actual fake taxis. Using them makes you vulnerable. 
• The distraction techniques – “Look at this!”… then the pocket’s picked of unsuspecting victims. Ignore them.
• ‘Plain clothes police officers’ – These are people masquerading as police officers and after your money.

Generally, Colombias are super friendly. Sometimes it feels a bit eerie, especially in large cities. But really, most of the time they are just trying to be kind and inviting. 

However, if someone is too close for comfort or it just feels weird, don’t feel bad for them to remove yourself from the situation. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable, don’t worry about making them uncomfortable. Your safety is always more important.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Colombia without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

As soon as you know you’re heading to Colombia, prepare yourself with trusty travel insurance .

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Colombia.

What should you avoid in Colombia?

Avoid these things in Colombia to stay safe: – Avoid standing out or looking rich – Hand over the goods if you’re being robbed – Say no to illegal cabs – Don’t use ATMs after dark

Is Colombia safe to live in?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe to live in, and in recent years more expats are moving to Colombia, all of them enticed by warmer climates, nice people, and amazing scenery. Blending in is key, Spanish is a must, then you’re less prone to problems faced by tourists and backpackers. 

What is the most dangerous part of Colombia?

Altos de Cazucá, also known as District 4 of Soacha, is the most dangerous part of Colombia. Travellers are advised to avoid this district completely. Soacha is located close to Bogota.

Can you drink the water in Colombia?

The tap water in Colombia is safe to drink in many places – but not everywhere. Colombia is working on their water systems and water treatment is improving . Check with locals when you arrive. In rural areas, it may pose health risks but bottled water is cheap.

Yes, Colombia is safe, but only if you take care. 

It would be such a shame to miss out on Colombia because of scary stories that have come out of this country, based on an outdated reputation. Those days have largely passed. The incredible coffee, extremely friendly people, wild nature, epic major cities, mind-boggling landscapes and drastic beaches… how could you miss that?

Colombia still isn’t what we’d class as 100% safe. There are pickpockets, fraudulent taxis, occasional muggings, and people posing as local authorities. Be sensible, trust your gut, and monitor local media to help you avoid any danger.

Avoid anything political or security-related. Any isolated or deserted areas, you need not investigate. Respect local laws.

With this guide, you have an even safer destination. You now have a ton of travel tips with your safety in mind. Ultimately, most trips to Colombia are trouble-free, but stay clued up. With that, you’ll be less worried about potential dangers, and more interested in getting properly absorbed into this amazing country. 

Remember the emergency number: 123 . Get the number down of your embassy too.

Then get booking your tickets! You’ll probably find one of us here too…

Looking for more info on traveling to Colombia?

• Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• See exactly how to travel the world for a year , even if you’re broke
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Colombia travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Updated April 2023 by Laura Hall

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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11 Comments

I find this guiding quite accurate. I have visited Colombia +20 times over the last 20 years and in most remote and rural areas. While most of the cities have progressed positively over the last 10-15 years due to foreign investment, tourism and increased job posdibilities some cities have went in the oposite direction, ex Caii, Palmira and Buenaventura. It was an interesting reading. I am travelling out of Cali tomorrow with my family after another great visit. Reg Inge

I live in Colombia and for me it is a beautiful country, People are still stuck in Pablo Escobar era, but that is in the past, I mean, saying like: “Germany is a dangerous country because of hitler”, Man that was long time ago. Same thing with Colombia, although Pablo Escobar was a little bit recent (1980, 1990) but it doesn’t mean that 1 person will change the way we look an entire country. Colombia can be dangerous, Nobody can’t say it is not. But I think people are still saying this country is dangerous because of 1 single person. Kinda unfair. And why seeing only the bad things? We can enjoy the amazing places, foods, traditions of this country. And we are not done yet. Colombia is still fighting to achieve our president’s goal of “total peace”. I am proud of this strong and persistent nation. And I will never stop being it.

Thanks for your comment.

Well the “Pablo Escobar” era wasn’t just dangerous because of one man was it? It was dangerous because of multiple, huge, powerful drug cartels warring with each other, with the government and then the para-militaries were also adding to the melee.

But yeah we agree, Colombia has turned a corner since then and is indeed a brilliant and beautiful country to visit. However comparing it to Germany is completely disingenuous, the fact is that street crime remains endemic and that obvious Gringo’s are a target – that is our first hand experience talking.

I think your opinion of Barranquilla is really wrong. There are obviously places you should avoid, but compare to other cities Colombia is relatively safe. As you said, you need to be always careful in some areas of the cities or avoid completely some neighborhoods, but to tell to avoid the city completely is just doing it an injustice. Yes, in Barranquilla there is not so much to see, is really not so much a tourist city outside of the Carnaval time, but still is a really nice place.

I can you tell you right now you’re opinion on Cali is wrong. It’s very clean, vibrant, friendly people, and the home of salsa. One of my favorite cities in Colombia!

Thank you very much for this article!

I agree, I am not from Colombia… I have been working in security matters over 20 years in other countries and recently I am working here (Colombia), theses tips we often use to show our expatriates persons to guarantee a productive and safe staying in this country. From my side you have 20 points.

Some cities are more dangerous than other ones, with more attention to the rural and borders area. We need to have in mind the proactive culture, do not give the opportunity to delinquents, you only need to follow the suggestings…

I’m Colombian. I live in Medellin. This article is pretty accurate. I love my country and we (colombians) hope that many foreing people can come and visit us.

Gracias por comentar! A lot of us on the Broke Backpacker team love Colombia too! <3

We were mugged at knifepoint in Medellin two days after our arrival. On the first day we were followed by shady individuals. No, Colombia is clearly not safe. We had read all the safety warning and were very worried about the security situation, but that did not help us (though we were not carrying anything of value except our phones).

I’ve travelled continuously for the past two years to some pretty bad places and would consider myself a very experienced traveler, but have never felt as unsafe as here. I would strongly advice against travel to Colombia.

Great article!

For a great country! 🙂

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

Terrorism  .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in Colombia 

Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in Colombia. 

Armed actors 

Despite the landmark peace agreement agreed between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in 2016, many armed groups remain active throughout the country. 

These groups may attack with little or no warning. The focus is predominantly in areas where there are active illicit economies and narco-trafficking and have historically targeted some tourist locations, including:  

• transportation hubs including airports 
• markets and shopping malls 
• local government facilities 
• hotels, clubs and restaurants 
• places of worship 
• parks and other public areas 
• major sporting and cultural events 
• educational institutions 

Police and military personnel and installations are frequently targeted.  

The principal intended target of these attacks is not usually foreign tourists. However, the pattern of these attacks means that incidents in public spaces and other areas visited by foreigners cannot be ruled out. Past methods of attack have included car bombs, grenade attacks and explosive devices left in buildings. You should always remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local security authorities should an incident occur. 

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping rates remain high in Colombia. Illegal armed groups kidnap hostages – both for ransom and for political purposes. While foreign nationals are not the primary target, there is an increasing trend in the number of foreigners being kidnapped in recent years, particularly those working for (or believed to be working for) oil, mining and related companies where armed groups operate. 

Express kidnappings – short-term opportunistic abductions, aimed at extracting cash from the victim – also happen. Victims can be targeted or selected at random. They are held while criminals empty their bank accounts using their cash cards. Most cases in major cities involve victims that have been picked up by taxis hailed from the street. There have been incidents where those who have resisted the kidnappers’ demands have been killed. Dating applications are also increasingly being used as a vehicle for robbery, kidnappings and extortion.  

Regularly reassess your security arrangements and consider carefully any travel around the country.  

Political situation  

Colombia has suffered from internal armed conflict for over 50 years. In 2016, Colombia’s then-President Juan Manuel Santos signed a peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) movement to end the civil war.  

The peace agreement is still in place today, but Colombia remains seriously afflicted by conflict. Delays in the implementation of the peace agreement has led to a resurgence in violence in various parts of the country. Much of this is now between armed groups fighting for control of territory, the cocaine trade, and other illicit economies. 

Protests and demonstrations can happen regularly throughout the country and often start at short notice. These events can turn violent and may lead to an increase in police and military presence. Road closures and roadblocks can cause travel disruptions for visitors.  

Avoid protests, strikes and demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities or tour operators if you are affected. Allow extra time to reach your destination and monitor local media, including social media channels. 

There is a heightened risk of violence across the country when elections are held due to the interference of armed groups and criminal gangs in the electoral process. During national and state elections, avoid large gatherings or political rallies and remain vigilant around polling stations.   

Drugs, organised crime and terrorism are inextricably linked in Colombia. There’s evidence of high levels of coca cultivation in: 

• Nariño Department 
• Cauca Department 
• Putumayo Department 
• Caquetá Department 
• Meta Department 
• Guaviare Department 
• the Catatumbo region in Norte de Santander Department 
• northern Antioquia Department 
• southern Bolivar Department 

There’s a risk to your safety in any area where coca, marijuana or opium poppies are cultivated and near to cocaine processing labs. 

Illegal armed groups and criminal gangs are active in all of the departments where coca is cultivated, processed or transported, as well as in many cities. The risk is particularly significant in:  

• rural areas near to the borders with Panama, Venezuela and Ecuador 
• the Parque Nacional Natural de La Macarena in the Department of Meta 
• the port towns of Buenaventura in the Department of Valle de Cauca, Turbo in the Department of Antioquia and Tumaco in the Department of Nariño 

Money laundering, extortion and prostitution rackets are all part of organised crime activity. 

Street crime 

Pickpocketing, mugging and armed robbery are a problem, especially in major cities, including Bogotá, Medellín, Cali and the Caribbean coast. British nationals have been robbed at gunpoint in the Candelaria area of Bogotá and across many cities in Colombia.

Be vigilant, particularly if you are in public places used by foreigners, or near official buildings. Avoid deprived areas of cities. Take care on city streets, especially after dark or if you are on your own. Do not carry large amounts of money or wear expensive jewellery.  

Use an ATM during business hours inside a bank, supermarket or large commercial building. Be aware before and after using an ATM on the street – robberies are common, especially at night. 

Drug-induced robberies and sexual assaults 

The British Embassy has received reports of criminals in Colombia using drugs to subdue their victims. This includes the use of scopolamine, which temporarily incapacitates victims. Criminals can administer drugs through food, drinks, cigarettes, aerosols and even paper flyers. Victims become disoriented quickly and are vulnerable to robbery, sexual assault, rape and other crimes. 

Dating applications and websites are often used by criminals to identify and lure foreign nationals who are travelling alone and looking to meet local people. Criminals work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security. Victims are incapacitated and robbed. Incidents have been reported in nightclubs, bars, restaurants, public transportation (including taxis) and on city streets. Do not accept invitations from strangers to their accommodations, and do not invite strangers to your accommodation.  

Do not leave food or drinks unattended and do not take anything offered by strangers. These drugs can cause serious medical problems, including loss of consciousness, memory loss and can be fatal if administered in large quantities. Get local medical attention as soon as possible. 

Where possible, plan how you will travel to and from your destination. Only use pre-booked taxis.  

Public offences 

The law against the sexual abuse of children (aged 13 and under) is strictly enforced, especially when it involves tourists. If convicted you could face a long prison sentence.  

The 141 national toll-free line and the Child and Adolescent Police are available for 24-hour protection, emergencies and orientation of children and young people. 

Bogus police scams 

Bogus police are known to operate in Bogotá and elsewhere. They may ask to inspect money to see if it is counterfeit. If approached, ask them to escort you to the nearest local police station (CAI or ‘Centro de Atención Inmediata’).  

Rural areas 

In many rural areas, the authority of the Colombian state is limited, and the British Embassy’s ability to help British nationals in trouble in these areas will also be limited. Mobile and internet connection in rural areas is often limited. 

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal id .

Carry a colour printout of the photo page and Colombian visa from your passport at all times for identification. 

It is illegal to consume alcohol in public spaces. 

Illegal drugs  

Do not get involved with illegal drugs of any kind. Colombian drug trafficking detection methods are sophisticated and anyone attempting to traffic drugs can expect to be arrested. British nationals have been arrested and detained for trying to smuggle cocaine out of the country. Prison conditions are harsh. Pack your own luggage and keep it with you at all times. Lock your cases to protect them from tampering. Never carry items for other people. Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common practice among money launderers. 

Colombia has severe penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. 

Spiritual cleansing 

Traditional hallucinogenic tea, known as Yagé or Ayahuasca, is brewed and marketed to tourists as spiritual cleansing. The various preparations typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen that’s illegal in the UK and many other countries. 

There are many risks involved. Consumption is not regulated. Intoxicated travellers have been assaulted and robbed. There have also been reports of sexual assaults during these ceremonies. 

Health risks are not well understood and on occasions people have suffered serious illnesses and in some cases death after taking these drugs. The jungle retreats are often a long way from medical facilities making the risks even greater. Some have basic medical services, but others do not. Some do not have an established plan for how you can access medical facilities in case of an emergency. 

Using cameras in secure areas 

Photographing of military or strategic government sites is illegal. 

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex sexual relationships are legal but not widely accepted, especially in rural areas. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers . 

US dollars and euros are easy to exchange, but only use recognised banks and money exchanges. Do not change money on the street. 

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops and restaurants. Keep the receipts in case you need to show customs what money you have spent when you leave. 

Transport risks  

Road travel .

If you are planning to drive a hire car or a UK vehicle, see information on driving abroad . 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Colombia. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.  

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as: 

• a year of driving experience 
• being aged 18 years and over   
• holding an IDP  
• a citizenship card or passport 
• a credit card to guarantee the vehicle hire 

Carry all vehicle documents in physical form, in case you are pulled over by local authorities. 

Driving standards 

Driving standards are poor and traffic accidents are common. Avoid driving at night, which can be particularly hazardous. Do not hitch-hike. The risk of violence and kidnapping is higher in some rural areas, and there is a risk of being caught in roadblocks set up by illegal armed groups. Main roads are generally safe during daylight hours. 

Public transport  

Be cautious when using public transport in Colombia.  

There have been several recent incidents of armed robbery on buses. Avoid displaying valuable items like laptops, cameras and mobile phones. Do not wear jewellery and only carry minimal amounts of cash. Avoid travelling on your own or at night, especially at border crossings or areas where there are few other people around. When travelling to remote areas, it may be safer to travel with others or take part in a tour with a reputable company. 

There have been reports of express kidnappings, assaults and robberies in unlicensed taxis. Use licensed telephone or internet-based taxi services whenever possible or book through your hotel. Many restaurants in Colombia will book a taxi for you. Do not hail taxis on the street. 

El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá only allows authorised taxis to pick up passengers at its terminals. Authorised taxis are yellow with white licence plates and plate numbers on doors and roof. The driver’s information will be shown inside the vehicle. Well-known taxi companies can be booked via Uber and Cabify. Authorised taxi booths are present in El Dorado and most airports in Colombia. 

There is a risk from landmines throughout Colombia, especially in rural and remote areas. Mined areas are often unmarked. Be vigilant when visiting remote areas or travelling off the main roads. 

Air travel 

The departmental capitals of Amazonas, Vaupes and Guainía are only accessible by air due to the lack of road infrastructure in these departments. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Hurricanes  

Although uncommon, hurricanes and tropical storms can affect the Caribbean coast and the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina. 

Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Organization weather reports for Colombia , the US National Hurricane Center , the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) and the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) . 

Earthquakes 

There is a high risk of earthquakes across Colombia. Earthquakes occur regularly, particularly in Santander Department and the Andean Region.  

Familiarise yourself with safety procedures and any instructions in your hotel or accommodation. 

If an earthquake happens, monitor local media reports, follow instructions from the authorities and keep essential belongings, such as your passport and money, with you.  

Get real-time information (in Spanish) following an earthquake from the: 

• National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD)  
• Colombia’s Geological Services  

You can find a real-time earthquake map and further information about earthquakes in Colombia on the Colombia’s Geological Services . 

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .  

There is a risk of floods and landslides after heavy rains throughout Colombia, especially in the Colombian Andes. Get local advice before travelling on mountain roads after heavy rain. 

Volcanic eruptions 

There are 25 active and monitored volcanoes in Colombia. Check the latest daily bulletins about volcanic activity (in Spanish).

If you are in areas of volcanic activity, be prepared to make travel arrangements or even follow evacuation plans at short notice. If you are planning to visit affected areas, avoid the area and consider altering travel plans. 

Notify friends and family of your safety, remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local security authorities or your tour operator. 

Monitor local media and get information and advice from the local authorities before travelling on the Pan-American highway, which passes near a volcano. Call 767 for information (in Spanish) from the Colombian Highway Police about road closures. 

If you’re planning to visit areas of known volcanic activity, pay careful attention to all warnings and follow the advice of the local authorities . 

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Another Boeing plane issue? Don't fall for the headlines. | Cruising Altitude

Not all issues involving Boeings are created equal. 

Boeing has been in the news a lot lately, and that’s partly because of me. As an aviation reporter, it’s my job to follow what’s going on at the company and update the public about any important developments. Where it gets a little muddier, though, is when some incident involves a Boeing airplane that is not specifically a Boeing Issue (caps intentional).

As a result of some very high-profile and serious safety incidents, Boeing is rightfully under a microscope now. But just because there’s a news appetite for it doesn’t mean that Boeing is responsible for everything that goes on with its aircraft once they leave the factory floor. 

At a time when people are thinking about the planes they fly on more than usual, it can be hard to highlight relevant information without misleading readers into thinking there’s more malfeasance than there actually is.

It’s a newsroom conversation every time we see Boeing bubbling in news trends. My job is to hold Boeing accountable without fearmongering.

Aviation professionals agree that while Boeing and its practices deserve scrutiny, you should still feel alright flying on their planes.

So, let’s try to cut through the noise.

What’s wrong with Boeing?

“There are genuine worries about Boeing in terms of its performance as a company, its safety culture, its manufacturing culture,” Jon Ostrower, editor-in-chief of The Air Current , told me. 

It’s hard to boil down the issues at Boeing because they didn’t happen overnight. They’re systemic and the result of a series of small changes and corporate decisions over decades that de-emphasized engineering excellence and safety and put extra importance on shareholder returns. But that’s not the only thing.

“During COVID we had a lot of retirements that happened both on the pilot front and the mechanic front, and there was a lot of senior expertise that left,” Laurie Garrow, a civil engineering professor specializing in aviation at Georgia Tech, told me. “The senior expertise probably provided a series of checks and balances that are being relearned and reinstitutionalized in some companies.” 

Garrow is currently on a consulting contract with Boeing on unrelated issues. She said her perspective applies to not just Boeing but the aviation industry as a whole.

According to Ostrower, Boeing needs to change its corporate culture to emerge from the current shadow.

“Boeing’s behavior in terms of the design of the 737 Max is an aberration in an otherwise phenomenally safe system,” he said. “They need to put themselves back together, and I mean that quite literally. There has been an internal breakup of the company over decades that has fractured their workforce, both the engineers and the machinists, spiritually and geographically.”

Boeing is, of course, under investigation by federal regulators as a result of these issues. It’s unclear what the outcome of those investigations will be, but it seems likely that some internal company changes will be required. 

What airplane issues is Boeing responsible for?

“What’s going on at Boeing is distinctly separate from the types of issues that happen in service, that by the way, would largely go unnoticed or unreported on if it wasn’t what happened on Alaska 1282,” Ostrower said.

Said another way: A Boeing plane can be involved in an incident that has nothing to do with Boeing itself.

“There is a pile-on fixation that happens in the broader media landscape,” Ostrower said. “That is a function of how people are feeling about their confidence in Boeing, but it fundamentally is not related to anything that’s been going on at Boeing.” 

Garrow pointed out that aviation is extremely safe overall and has only gotten safer over time.

“A lot of the safety features have redundancy. A lot of the kinks have been worked out,” she said. “Not every aircraft flies perfectly, there are maintenance issues that happen, but they are getting increased scrutiny right now.” 

Of course, Boeing is responsible for manufacturing defects like the missing bolts that led to the Alaska Airlines explosive decompression earlier this year. But as an airframer, Boeing doesn’t manufacture things like engines – those are supplied by other companies – or place the tires on planes that have been in service for many years. Once an aircraft is away from the factory, airlines largely take over its maintenance.

“If a flight is delayed because of a problem, it’s because someone has noticed it and it’s being addressed,” Ostrower said. 

That’s the system working.

“These are incredibly complex machines, and they run at a reliability level that is truly extraordinary,” Ostrower added. “There are levels of redundancy. You can defer maintenance items in a safe and well-understood way … This component wasn’t active on my airplane, and that’s fine, you can operate safely with that, it’s approved to do that.”

What is an emergency landing?

Another gray area when it comes to the news is emergency landings. A casual traveler understandably hears the word “emergency” and thinks of the absolute worst case. Still, the Federal Aviation Administration allows, and in fact encourages, pilots to declare an emergency in any “ distress or urgency condition .” 

According to the pilot/controller glossary , that can include “a condition of being concerned about safety and of requiring timely but not immediate assistance.”

Aviation safety is built on redundancy and overcaution, so a pilot declaring an emergency is usually another sign that the system is working as designed. It doesn’t always bear being reported on.

Are Boeing airplanes safe?

The short answer is yes.

“Trust has been broken at Boeing and the airlines are paying for that,” Ostrower said. “It makes it really hard for us to say ‘trust the airlines and their processes,’ but you have to because there’s ample evidence and ample history and safety culture to back that up.” 

Thousands of Boeing aircraft fly without incident every day. Eventually, the company’s place at the top of the news cycle will fade, though the focus on safety throughout aviation will remain as it always has.

“People shouldn’t have to think about what kind of airplane they’re getting on, and we need to get back to that,” Ostrower said. “The way we’re going to get back to that is through getting not just Boeing but the airlines on a reliable footing.” 

In the meantime, Garrow said, travelers should consider the bigger picture.

“The few times an aircraft has gone down or there has been a major accident. I personally have found it very difficult the next day to get on a flight if I’m traveling. Aviation has one of the best safety records of all of the modes and I personally don’t want to change my life – not go on my dream vacation to Europe or not go on my professional trip that I literally could not drive to – because of a fear of flying,” she said. “I just always remind myself that aviation has had one of the best safety records, and I’m comforted by the fact that I’m not driving the plane, that I have two experienced pilots that have been trained for multiple safety scenarios, and I’m in good hands when I travel.” 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].