Colombia

Emergency phone numbers

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. 
• Dial 123 for all emergencies in Colombia. 
• Contact the U.S. Embassy in Colombia at +57-601-275-2000 or +57-601-275-4021 after hours to report crimes or emergencies.

Terrorism 

Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack American citizens outside of the United States. They use simple methods of attack like knives, explosives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets. 

• High-profile public events (sporting events, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants visited by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights) 

Review our information on terrorism before you travel.

Crime 

Crimes and scams against tourists in Colombia are common: 

• Individuals seen as wealthy are the primary targets. 
• Well-organized crime occurs in cities and affluent neighborhoods. 
• Firearms and knives are common in Colombia. Criminals use these in muggings and robberies under the threat of violence. 
• Ride-by robberies of cell phones, bags, and valuables are common. 
• Thieves often spot victims by their visible jewelry, fancy wristwatches, and expensive clothes. 
• Crimes can happen while victims are in public (malls, restaurants, and airports). 
• Narco-trafficking groups, including the Clan del Golfo, often attack civilians and security forces. 

Demonstrations  

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Demonstrations can be frequent in the capital city, Bogotá. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. 

How to stay safe 

U.S. citizens must always be aware of their surroundings: 

• Check local news and reports 
• Keep a low profile and do not flash wealth (cell phones, cash, jewelry, etc.) 
• Avoid demonstrations 

Kidnapping 

The U.S. embassy sometimes receives reports of U.S. citizens being kidnapped for ransom in Colombia: 

• Kidnappers may force victims to use multiple ATMs to get money. 
• They may ask relatives or friends to wire money through banks, and sometimes hold victims for long periods. 
• Always tell friends and family your plans, including where and when you’ll arrive or leave places. 
• Give your trusted contacts a unique "alert word" to use if you’re in danger during a phone call. 
• Avoid isolated or unfamiliar areas, stay alert to suspicious behavior, and contact local authorities if you feel threatened.

Dating apps (robberies, murders, and disabling drugs) 

Criminals use dating apps to attract victims. They ask to meet in hotels, restaurants, and bars. Many U.S. citizens in Colombia have been drugged, robbed, and even killed by Colombian criminals posing as dates. They often work with accomplices.

If using dating apps or websites in Colombia: 

• Let your friends and family know where you are. 
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated (hotel rooms, private apartments, or houses). 
• Tell your family or friends the details about the person you are meeting and on which site you met them. Include a photo. 
• Set up a video call in the initial stages. 
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant. 
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible. 
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers. 
• Provide a local number to friends and family members in case of a drugging. 

Scams 

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Colombia. Review the Department of State’s information on scams  and the FBI’s page on scams. 

Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to. Instead of helping, tell them to call the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We can work with local authorities or through other channels to assist them. 

Common scams include:   

• Romance or online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Lucrative sales 
• Gold purchase 
• Contracts with promises of large payments 
• Grandparent or relative targeting 
• Free trip or travel bags 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits and job offers 
• Bank overpayments 
• Acting as a U.S. government official asking payment for services 

ATMs 

There have been cases of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from “skimmed” cards: 

• If you use credit or debit cards, check for unauthorized transactions. 
• Limit the amount of cash you carry in public and keep in your checking account. 
• Stay alert when withdrawing cash from ATMs. 
• Avoid ATMs located on the street. 
• ATMs inside banks, shopping malls, or other protected locations are preferable. 
• Use credit cards whenever possible.

Taxis 

• U.S. government employees are prohibited from hailing taxis on the street due to the risk of robberies and assault. 
• U.S. citizens have been killed during robberies while using taxis hailed on the street. 
• Use a dispatch service or car service app whenever possible. 

Ayahuasca (hallucinogens) 

Ayahuasca is marketed to tourists as “spiritual cleansing”: 

• It contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong, illegal psychedelic drug. It is banned in many other countries, including the United States. 
• Risks while intoxicated include robbery, assault, illness, or death. 
• People claiming to be shamans, or spiritual practitioners, are neither licensed nor regulated. 

Technology use abroad   

Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world.  

• Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated.  
• If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications.  
• Make sure that all VPN and VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based.  
• Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. 
• GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Before using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.  

Victims of crime 

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  

• Dial 123 to report crimes, including sexual assault, to the local police. 
• Dial +57-601-275-2000 for the U.S. Embassy. 
• Dial +57-601-275-4021 for the U.S. Embassy after hours. 

Review our information on help for U.S. victims of crime abroad.  

We can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 
• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. 
• Contact family or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victims compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.* 
• In emergencies, help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.*

*Note: The State Department will not pay for these services or provide you with funds to pay for them except in the form of an emergency loan. We will not loan you money for accommodations except as part of an overall repatriation loan to assist you in returning to the United States. 

Domestic violence 

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Help in domestic violence situations is also available from Colombian authorities in Spanish by calling 155 (*155 from a cell phone). 

Tourism 

The tourism industry is not consistently regulated: 

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always labeled properly. 
• Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities. 
• If you get injured, you will likely only find appropriate medical treatment in or near major cities. First responders may only be able to provide basic medical treatment. 
• Ambulances may be unable to access rural areas. 

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our information on insurance providers for coverage abroad.

Venezuelan border 

Traveling to Venezuela via Colombia is dangerous and the border isn’t always clearly marked. The U.S. Department of State has categorized Venezuela as Level 4: Do not travel.  

• U.S. citizens are at risk of detention any time they enter Venezuela.  
• Venezuelan authorities do not notify the U.S. government of the detention of U.S. citizens, and the U.S. government is not granted access to detained citizens.  
• The U.S. government has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.  
• Review the Venezuela Travel Advisory for more information. 

Criminal penalties 

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 

• If you break laws, even by mistake, you could be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 
• You may be prosecuted under U.S. law for certain crimes committed while you are abroad. 
• Learn more about examples of crimes against minors abroad and information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. 
• If you are starting a business, seek information from competent local authorities. 
• Get professional advice if you plan to practice a profession that requires additional permits or licenses. 

Sexual abuse of children 

In Colombia, engaging in sexual activities with individuals under the age of 18 is illegal. Violators, regardless of whether they were aware of the individual's age, can face severe legal consequences, including long prison sentences. 

Customs regulations 

There is a currency limit of 10,000 USD on entry and exit. You must declare anything above this value and prove the legal source of the funds. 

The U.S. embassy has reports of customs officials taking expensive jewelry that was not declared upon entry. 

You must follow local laws: 

• It is illegal for tourists and business travelers to bring guns or bullets into Colombia.  
• It is illegal to bring plants and animals (and some related products) into Colombia. 

Artifacts of historical pieces 

It is illegal to take back pre-Colombian and other historical objects. They are protected by cultural patrimony laws.  

U.S. customs officials must confiscate pre-Colombian objects and some colonial religious art. It is illegal to bring them into the United States.

Arrest notification  

If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.  

Many law enforcement authorities will not notify the embassy. Few police officers speak English, especially outside of large cities.  

Review information on arrest or detention abroad. 

• Penalties are severe for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs. 
• Arrestees can expect long pre-trial detention. Long prison sentences under harsh conditions are common for convicted offenders. 
• Released offenders may serve long parole periods in-country. Offenders are given no housing and may lack permission to work. 

Travel and airport issues 

Few customs officers or immigration inspectors in Colombia speak English.  Misunderstandings can result in detentions or return to the United States. If you are detained by immigration officers, the U.S. embassy cannot help you. When you arrive in Colombia, please be polite and follow any instructions given to you. 

• Colombia uses detailed screening procedures to detect narcotics smuggling at its international airports.  
• Migration officials sometimes question, search, and fingerprint travelers.  
• Officials may ask you to take an abdominal X-ray on entry or exit.  

Counterfeit and pirated goods 

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common but may be illegal according to local laws. 

They may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 

You could get fined or forced to give your goods to the authorities if you try to bring them back into the United States. 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection - The Truth Behind Counterfeits 
• U.S. Department of Justice - Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section

Faith-based travelers 

• Faith-Based Travel Information 
• International Religious Freedom Report – review country reports 
• Human Rights Report – review country reports 

Gay and lesbian travelers  

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Colombia. 

Colombian law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. However, protections are not always enforced: 

• Criminals use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault, so use caution on such apps. 
• Violence and harassment targeting persons on the basis of sexual orientation remains high, particularly in rural areas.  
• Places catering to lesbian, gay, and bisexual persons are mostly found in big cities, especially in Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá. 

Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers for more details.  

Travelers with accesibility needs

The law in Colombia prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, but the law is not enforced consistently: 

• Public places and transportation often have limited accessibility and do not have accommodations for people with disabilities. 
• Common types of accessible facilities may include restrooms, ramps, and elevators.  
• Expect limited accessibility in: 
  • Public transportation 
  • Hotels and buildings 
  • Communication and information 
  • Sidewalks 
  • Intersections 
• There is a big difference in accessibility between large cities and the rest of the country. 
• Repair and replacement parts for aids, equipment, and devices are available. 
• Colombian Sign Language interpreters or personal assistants are available for hire. 

Review our information on travelers with accessibility needs. 

Students 

•  Studying Abroad
•  FBI travel tips 

Women travelers 

• Women Travelers 

Cruise ship passengers 

• Cruise Ship Travel

Health resources 

• CDC's Colombia Traveler Health Information 
• CDC's Medical Tourism information
• NASA's International Air Quality Index 
• Travel Insurance 
• WHO's Colombia Health Information 
• U.S. Embassy in Bogota's list of hospitals and doctors in Colombia

Emergency numbers 

• Dial 123 for medical emergencies.  

Ambulance services  

Ambulances are available in large cities. 

• First responders may lack training. 
• In an emergency or serious injury, travelers may prefer to take a taxi or car to the hospital rather than an ambulance. 

We highly recommend that all travelers review the CDC’s Health Advice for Travelers to Colombia. 

Medical insurance 

The U.S. government including Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. 

• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid doesn’t work abroad. 
• Make sure your insurance plan works abroad. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides more information on types of travel insurance available. 
• Most hospitals and doctors overseas don’t accept U.S. health insurance. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. 
• Credit card payment is not always available. Most care providers overseas only accept cash. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Healthcare 

Adequate healthcare facilities are available throughout the country. However, healthcare in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. 

• Hospitals and doctors may ask for payment upfront before admission. Credit card payments may not be accepted. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Patients cover the costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities. Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions. 

The U.S. Embassy in Colombia maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any medical provider or clinic. 

Prescriptions 

You must carry prescription medications in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Embassy of Colombia to ensure the medication is legal in Colombia. 

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. 

• U.S. citizens seeking healthcare abroad should know that medical systems are different from those in the United States. 
• Consult your doctor before traveling for medical reasons. 
• Learn about the risks of medical tourism from the CDC and find out how to prepare before traveling Colombia. 
• Colombia has many elective and cosmetic surgery facilities that are like those found in the United States. The quality of care varies widely. 
• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications and even died from cosmetic or other elective surgeries. 
• Travelers should buy supplemental  insurance to cover evacuation for unexpected medical issues. 
• You have limited legal options in case of malpractice in Colombia. 

If you plan to undergo surgery in Colombia:  

• Research the doctor and recovery facility you plan to use. 
• Make sure that emergency medical facilities are available. 
• Check that professionals are accredited and qualified. 
• Share all health information with your doctor before surgery (medical conditions, medications, allergies). 
• Buy supplemental  insurance to cover evacuation for unexpected medical issues. 

Pharmaceuticals 

Be careful when purchasing medication abroad: 

• Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medications are common and may not work or be dangerous. 
• Purchase medication in consultation with a medical professional and from trusted places. 
• You must follow the law if you are bringing medication back to the United States. The medication must be for personal use and approved in the United States. Get more information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration. 
• Colombia does not allow the sale of certain psychiatric medications. Travelers should bring enough supply for their trips. 

Please review the Colombian government’s open data website for drug unavailability. 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy 

The Department of State provides information on ART and surrogacy abroad. 

• Courts may not enforce surrogacy agreements between foreign or same sex intending parents and gestational mothers. 

Vaccinations

Travelers must be up to date on all recommended  routine vaccinations by the CDC.

Colombian health authorities encourage childhood vaccinations for children ages 6 and under. 

• World Health Organization 
• Colombia Ministry of Health Yellow Fever Requirements 
• Ministry for Heath and Public Safety Required Childhood Medications

Water quality and food safety  

• In rural areas, tap water is not safe to drink. 
• Bottled water and beverages are safe. 
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water. 
• Ice for drinks may be made from tap water. 
• In some locations, including in Bogota, tap water is not available every day. 

Altitude 

• Many cities in Colombia, such as Bogota, are at high altitude. 
• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. 
• Review the Travel to High Altitudes information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Common diseases 

• COVID-19 
• Dengue 
• Chikungunya 
• Malaria 
• Yellow Fever 
• Zika

In Chocó, Nariño, and Córdoba:   

• Use the Environmental Protection Agency recommended mosquito repellents.
• Sleep under mosquito nets covered with repellent. 

In the Amazon region: 

• Preventative medication is recommended even for short stays. 

HIV and AIDS: 

• Travelers should bring enough medication for their entire stay. 

Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  Resources for Travelers information for specific issues in Colombia. 

Adventure travel 

Learn more about CDC's Adventure Travel

Air quality 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses AI, historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day air quality forecast for Colombia. 
• The CDC's Air Quality information provides common air pollutants.
• Review the EPA’s AirNow for information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance.
• Review our medicine and health abroad information.
• Air pollution is a problem in several major cities in Colombia. Consider how seasonal smog and pollution may affect you.  
• Consult your doctor before traveling. 

The air quality changes. People at highest risk from particle pollution: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• Citizens over 65 years of age 
• Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• Have heart disease or diabetes
• Work or are active outdoors 

Road conditions and safety 

Due to Colombia's security and infrastructure, U.S. government employees and their families cannot: 

• Use public transportation or travel by road outside cities at night. 
• Hail street taxis. 
• Use motorcycles. 

You should follow these same precautions. 

Road travel in Colombia can be dangerous, especially at night: 

• Some roads are poorly maintained. 
• Roads can get damaged due to heavy rains and mudslides. 
• Mountain roads may lack safety features such as crash barriers or guard rails. 
• Heavy fog can make driving dangerous. 
• Highways may not have lights or signs showing destinations. 
• Slow-moving buses and trucks stop in the middle of the road suddenly. 
• In the countryside, livestock is often herded along roads or left to graze on roadsides. 
• Due to a lack of sidewalks, roads are also used by pedestrians and bicyclists. 

The use of motorcycles and bicycles is widespread throughout Colombia. 

Traffic laws 

Traffic laws are often ignored and rarely enforced. This creates dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians. 

You must follow all local laws: 

• Seat belts are required for all passengers in a private vehicle.  
• Car seats are required for children.  
• Children under 10 years old are not allowed to ride in the front seat. 
• It is against the law to use a cell phone while driving. 
• If you are involved in an accident, you must stay at the scene without moving your vehicle until the police arrive. This rule is strictly enforced. 
• Under Colombian law, moving a vehicle or leaving the scene of an accident can be seen as admitting guilt. 

Public transportation

Do not wave down taxis on the street.

• U.S. citizens have been killed during robberies while using taxis hailed off the street.
• Use a dispatch service or transportation app whenever possible.

Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety abroad.

Aviation safety

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Colombia’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel

Mariners planning travel to Colombia should check the following:   

• U.S. Coast Guard Homeport Directory 
• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories 
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts  
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

Rainy season, flooding and landslides

• March to May
• October to November

High temperatures and drought 

• July to August
• December to March

Tropical storms  

• June to November
• Occur along the coastline

Living abroad resources

If you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events. 

• Learn how to prepare for events like voting, getting married, or the birth of a child. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare or insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.