Updated August 31, 2022

Generally, Colombia is a safe place to travel (with a little know-how!). But like elsewhere in the world, Colombia has seen cases of coronavirus. Check out our update below.

UPDATE: What to know about COVID

Like most places around the world, Colombia continues to have cases of COVID. But it is possible to travel to Colombia. 

Here's the latest: 

• If you are vaccinated, proof of vaccination is required to enter Colombia. 
• If you are not vaccinated or only partially vaccinated, you need negative COVID-19 test results to enter Colombia. 
• The Check-Mig registration form is required for all travelers.
• Face masks are required in certain municipalities. A local in Colombia can keep you up-to-date.

Q: Is Colombia a safe place to travel?

A: Absolutely! Colombia is a fabulous vacation option not just because of its many perks like abundant biodiversity, crystal clear ocean water, and hospitable culture—but more so because it’s safe. Since a 2016 accord ended Colombia’s long-running civil war, the country has been at peace—and the resulting serenity shines through the country as a whole. With that in mind, contrary to what many people believe, the vast majority of Colombian crime consists of nothing more than petty theft and scams. This petty crime is very easy to avoid with a bit of knowledge and general awareness.

Q: Is it a good idea to travel to Colombia alone?

A: Whether you’re planning a backpacking escape or an Eat Pray Love-inspired pleasure trip, Colombia is a country that you can easily travel to by yourself. The combination of Colombia’s welcoming culture, overall safety, and the plethora of activities that can be enjoyed solo or with a group make it an ideal travel destination. Just as when you travel solo anywhere, it’s a good idea to take some simple precautions.

Q: Government sites about Colombia are scary. Should they be taken at face value?

A: To clear up any confusion right away, there is not a ban on traveling to Colombia. On most official sites, including the U.S. Department of State website, Colombia’s travel advisory is ranked a “Level 2”, meaning “exercise increased caution”. Upon first read, that may feel intimidating—until you realize that this is the exact same advisory rank given to top travel destinations like Germany and Italy! Moral of the story, there’s no need to fear a trip to Colombia, and you can feel confident about your decision to visit!

Q: Is Bogota safe?

A: Absolutely! The capital of Colombia, Bogota has been booming with tourism over the past decades, and it is now one of the safest cities in Latin America. Thousands of people travel to Bogota every year to experience its incredible highlights—famous nightlife, mouth-watering food, and unparalleled street art, to name just a few.

Q: What about Cartagena and Medellin? Are they safe too?

A: Certainly! Similarly to Bogota, Cartagena and Medellin have also experienced the positive effects of Colombia’s overall push toward safety and accountability. Given its pristine beaches, magnificent architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine, Cartagena has become a wildly popular travel spot in recent years. And as has increased, so has the police force—resulting in a safe and peaceful Caribbean paradise. Similarly, when visiting Medellin, you can expect a glut of universities, hospitals, and spectacular public transportation. This city has completely turned its reputation around in the past couple decades, and was actually named The World’s Most Innovative City in 2013!

Q: Is Colombia safe for solo female travelers?

A: If you’re a solo female traveler, start packing your bags because a trip to Colombia is your next safe and exciting adventure! As far as catcalls and sexual harassment go, Colombia is no worse than any other location in South America. That said, it never hurts to read up on a few helpful tips like booking your accommodations in advance, sharing your location often (via Find My Friends or Google Maps) with some trusted friends or family, and staying aware when out and about.

Q: Do you need vaccinations to go to Colombia?

A: Chances are, you already have all of the necessary vaccinations for a trip to Colombia. It’s always a good idea to double-check with your doctor whenever you leave the country, but if you’re up to date with all of your routine vaccinations plus the recommended COVID vaccine then you should be good to go. If you tend to take more off-the-beaten-path explorations (aka out of the cities), then it’s especially important that you double-check because you may need just a few additional inoculations. For further peace of mind, you’ll be glad to know that Colombia has a top-notch healthcare system that will provide excellent care if you should need it.

Q: Is Colombia safe for the whole family?

A: If your ideal family vacation looks anything like basking in the sun, splashing around in water, and exploring your way through the Amazon rainforest, then Colombia is the place for you and your . Not only is Colombia entertaining, but it’s also extremely family-friendly and safe for anyone that you may be vacationing with. Colombian culture is extraordinarily family-oriented, and you are sure to be welcomed into the country with open arms. 

Q: Do you need a visa to go to Colombia?

A: Nope! No need to worry about an extensive visa process, because as long as you have a valid American passport, you can galavant around Colombia for up to 90 days completely worry-free. If you carry a non-American passport, read up on the Colombian visa process to find out if you qualify for 90 days of visa-free travel!