Having visited the Colombia in 3 weeks A few years ago, I explained to you why you should no longer be afraid to travel in this beautiful country.
Indeed, long considered a dangerous country, I explain below why Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years.
Today, Colombia is a booming tourist destination that deserves to be rediscovered by simply avoiding some regions and neighborhoods of the big cities.
Here is a study on the safety of tourists in Colombia, on the areas to avoid to travel safely and discover some of the most beautiful landscapes in South America.
Improving political and security situation
Since the historic 2016 peace agreement between the government and the FARC, Colombia has been experiencing a period of unprecedented improvement.
In fact, this peace agreement allowed the demobilization of the country's main guerrilla group (the FARC) and their transformation into a political party. This marked an important step towards the political and security stabilization of the country.
However, peace remains a major challenge. The security situation remains worrying in certain regions (see areas to avoid below):
- There has been a resurgence of violent actions by dissident armed groups in certain areas, particularly in the southwest of the country.
- Drug trafficking and illegal mining remain significant security challenges.
- The demobilization of the FARC has led to a fragmentation of the criminal landscape and an upheaval in the balance between armed groups.
Fortunately, the new president Gustavo Petro, elected in 2022, has made "total peace" his priority. Thus, the government is trying to strengthen the presence of the State in the areas formerly controlled by the guerrillas.
To summarize, it can be said that although the situation has improved compared to the past, Colombia still faces significant security and political challenges to fully consolidate peace and stability.
Tourist areas are safe in Colombia
Except for some neighborhoods in large cities, tourist areas are particularly safe in Colombia:
- La coffee region and its pretty colorful villages (Salento, Armenia, Filandia),
- la cocora valley, the region of Antioquia in particular El Peñol and Guatapé,
- the Magdalena region (Santa Marta and Big Cienaga) Et the Sierra Nevada (Tayrona Park),
- The paradise islands of the Caribbean like mucura.
The country is attracting more and more visitors who say they have never felt any danger during their stay.
In fact, although the situation is not comparable to that of the countries ofEurope, it is completely possible to travel safely in Colombia at this time.
To do this, you just need to be careful and avoid certain areas and regions of the country.
What is the level of crime in Colombia?
Despite government efforts, crime remains a major problem in Colombia and shows no clear signs of decreasing nationwide.
The situation varies by region, but the general trend seems to be either increasing or stagnating at a high level.
In fact, overall Colombia remains a fairly dangerous country with a crime index of 60.97 but less criminal than the majority of South American countries (Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Argentina).
Areas to avoid in Colombia
Although some precautions are necessary, it is entirely possible to travel safely in Colombia at this time by remaining vigilant and avoiding certain specific areas.
The French government has published its recommendations for travelers to Colombia on the website diplomatie.gouv.fr.
In particular, it indicates that the main areas to avoid due to their insecurity in Colombia are:
- border areas with Venezuela, Panama, Ecuador, the Peru and Brazil,
- the pacific coast,
- the departments of the east (Vichada, Guainía, Guaviare, Vaupes), the south (Amazonas, Caqueta and Putumayo), Nariño and the eastern sector of Valle del Cauca.
- The Amazon region is also a risk area.
- Some bogota neighborhoods, Medellin, Cali, Barcheer up ou Cartagena,
My unforgettable travel experience
During my 3 week tour in Colombia, I was impressed by the beauty and diversity of the country. From the paradisiacal beaches of the Caribbean to the Andean mountains, the landscapes are breathtaking.
I was able to visit this country in complete peace and quiet and everywhere I met warm and welcoming Colombians, proud to show their country to visitors.
On the other hand, as in any big city, it is advisable to remain vigilant in Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena, especially at night. But by taking common sense precautions, including taking a guide, you can fully enjoy these fascinating cities.
Outside of these metropolises, I did not feel any insecurity during my trip.
Colombia is today as safe or safer a destination than some of its neighboring South American countries.
So, don't be afraid to travel to Colombia and discover its magnificent landscapes, its vibrant culture and its warm welcome!