Published: July 22, 2026 

This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State Colombia Travel Advisory and Colombia Country Information Page. 

Embassy & Consulate Contact Information 

U.S. Embassy in Bogota: Calle 24 Bis No. 48-50, Bogotá, D.C.  

Tel: +57 (1) 275-2000; After-hour emergencies: +57 (1) 275-4021; Regional Security Office +57 (1) 275-2903/2458.  

Hours: Monday-Friday, 0800-1700. 

Consular Agency in Barranquilla: Calle 77B, No 57-141, Suite 511.  

Tel: +57-5-353-2001. 

OSAC Country Chapter(s) 

The OSAC Country Chapter in Bogotá meets monthly. There is also an active Country Chapter in Cartagena that meets quarterly.   

Contact OSAC’s Americas team with any questions. 

Colombia Travel Advisory 

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should reconsider travel to Colombia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and natural disasters. 

Do not travel to; Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán, Valle del Cauca (excluding Cali), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism. Do not travel within 10km/5mi of the Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, conflict between armed groups, and the risk of detention. 

Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System. 

Crime 

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Bogota as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. 

The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Colombia, indicating that there may be widespread violent crime and/or organized crime present in the country, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes. 

Crime: General Threat 

Large cities throughout Colombia continue to experience many of the same crime challenges common to major urban centers worldwide. The perception of wealth remains a primary factor in why criminals target U.S. and other foreign nationals. Street crime is the most prevalent daily threat to travelers. 

Violent crime remains a concern throughout Colombia including homicide, assault, armed robbery, and other serious offenses. Incidents of kidnapping, extortion, drugging, thefts, and armed break-ins have also been reported in some areas. These offenses continue to pose security risks for residents and travelers. 

Street crime is widespread and can escalate quickly to violence. Criminals are often armed, and victims who resist may face an increased risk of injury. Always remain alert and prepared to reduce your risk for becoming a victim of crime while traveling. Persons should comply with criminal demands during robberies and report incidents to local authorities. Law enforcement investigations and judicial processes may differ from those in the United States, and crimes involving foreign personnel are not always resolved or prosecuted, which can contribute to victim dissatisfaction.  

Passport theft remains common, with over 200 reported cases annually. A total of 296 reported criminal incidents involving U.S. citizens with majority of these cases linked to robbery, as well as extortion, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Underreporting continues to significantly affect this data. 

Thefts and assaults occur frequently on public transportation in both urban and rural areas. Vehicle break-ins, theft, and carjacking are risks in larger cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali. Cellphones are heavily targeted in quick grab-and-go thefts, often by individuals on motorcycles. Travelers are advised to limit cellphone use in public and step into secure locations when necessary. Visible high-value items such as watches or jewelry are also at risk of theft. Criminal groups frequently identify potential victims in public places such as airports, shopping centers, and restaurants, then follow and rob them, often at gunpoint. Extra caution is advised when withdrawing or transporting cash, as criminals routinely monitor individuals leaving banks or ATMs. 

Extortion remains a significant concern in certain regions. Groups such as dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the National Liberation Army (ELN), and the Clan del Golfo target businesses and individuals. These groups may use threats, violence, or infrastructure attacks to enforce compliance, especially outside major urban areas. Criminals continue to use a variety of street scam tactics including individuals posing as police officers, using fake identification, and requesting to inspect money for counterfeit bills. Victims are then issued fraudulent receipts and directed to a police station, where they discover the scam. Distraction techniques such as asking for directions, offering items, or staging minor incidents are used in thefts.  

Travelers should never transport packages for others without absolute certainty of its contents. Penalties for drug-related offenses are severe, including long pre-trial detention and harsh prison conditions. Released offenders may be required to remain in-country under restrictive parole conditions without support from authorities. 

Drug-facilitated robbery is a serious offense. Substances such as Scopolamine are commonly used to incapacitate victims. These incidents often occur in nightlife settings, including bars and clubs, where perpetrators target individuals perceived as wealthy. Targeting commonly occurs via dating apps. Drugs are typically administered through food or beverages. 

Crime: Areas of Concern 

Do not travel to Arauca, Cauca (except Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism. Do not travel to the Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing from Venezuela from Colombia. U.S. government employees are not permitted to travel by road between most major cities. U.S. government employees may not use motorcycles, hail street taxis, or use public transportation. 

The crime emergency line in Colombia is 123. Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure. 

Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.  

Kidnapping Threat 

The U.S. Department of State has included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Colombia, indicating that criminal or terrorist individuals or groups have threatened to and/or have seized or detained and threatened to kill, injure, or continue to detain individuals in order to compel a third party (including a governmental organization) to do or abstain from doing something as a condition of release. 

Paseo Millonario (express kidnappings) and other taxi-related crimes commonly involve a cab hailed from the street. After the passenger(s) enters, the driver will stop, and armed robbers will enter the vehicle, sometimes taking the victim to ATMs over several hours to take out as much cash as possible.  

The threat of kidnapping remains a concern. Foreigners are potential targets due to their perceived wealth. Kidnappers may also target U.S. nationals because of their potential political significance for terrorist groups. Most kidnappings now fall into the categories of classic kidnap for ransom events and express kidnappings. 

The police and army have effective anti-kidnapping/anti-extortion units called GAULAs around the country. Any victim of kidnapping/extortion, or anyone who knows of a victim, should call the police immediately at 165.   

Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips. 

Terrorism 

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Bogota as being a HIGH-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. 

The U.S. Department of State has included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Colombia, indicating that terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist.  

Armed criminal groups have evolved from demobilized terrorist organizations and right-wing paramilitary organizations. Dissident factions of the FARC, including groups such as the “Estado Mayor Central (EMC)” and Segunda Marquetalia continue to operate, alongside the National Liberation Army (ELN) and the Clan del Golfo. These groups are heavily involved in narcotrafficking, illegal mining, and other illicit economies, and are involved in terrorism, bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, and extortion.  

The U.S. Department of State has designated several transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) that operate in Colombia as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs). This includes the ELN, FARC-EP, Segunda Marquetalia, Clan del Golfo, the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua; the Mexican TCOs, Cartel de Sinaloa and Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG); and the Ecuadorian TCOs, Los Choneros and Los Lobos. 

U.S. organizations should be aware of criminal penalties associated with providing material support to FTOs. The primary criminal statutes OSAC members need to be aware of regarding FTOs include 18 U.S.C. § 2339 A-D. These statutes define material support as including (tangible or intangible) property, monetary instruments, lodging, training, advice, equipment, transportation, and other goods or services. This can include paying extortion demands (vacunas or derecho de piso) to criminal groups designated as FTOs. Compliance departments should ensure that an organization does not knowingly, or unknowingly, provide material support to any FTO or FTO-affiliated entity. 

In 2025, armed groups expanded their territorial presence and continued to carry out abuses against civilians, including forced displacement, targeted killings, and recruiting minors. Violence between rival groups especially between ELN forces and FARC dissidents intensified in Catatumbo along the border with Venezuela, resulting in large-scale casualties and displacement. The security environment along the Colombia-Venezuela border continues to present challenges by exploiting border conditions by smuggling, trafficking, and cross-border movement.  

The administration of President Gustavo Petro has continued pursuing its “Total Peace” strategy, seeking negotiations with multiple armed groups. However, progress has been limited. Violence has surged, and peace talks with armed groups have not been successful, and the number of active fighters has increased. 

Political Violence and Civil Unrest 

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Bogota as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. 

The U.S. Department of State has included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Colombia, indicating that demonstrations, protests, and/or strikes occur frequently, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond adequately. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent. 

In June 2025, Miguel Uribe, a Colombian senator and presidential candidate, was shot during a public rally in Bogotá and later died from his injuries. Authorities attributed the attack to the FARC dissident group Segunda Marquetalia, describing it as a planned and politically motivated operation. The incident is considered one of the most significant acts of political violence in Colombia in recent years, reflecting increased targeted attacks against high-profile political figures. 

Elections/Political Stability 

Colombia is a constitutional, multiparty republic. Presidential and legislative elections were held in June 2026. Abelardo de le Espriella won with 49.7% of the vote over Iván Cepeda’s 48.7%. The election was considered free and fair. There were no allegations of fraud.  

Political violence remains a concern in Colombia. Politicians and social leaders at the local level tend to face more frequent threat of targeted violent attacks or intimidation from criminal actors.  

Protests & Demonstrations 

While many demonstrations in Colombia remain peaceful, protest activity continues to carry the potential to turn unpredictable and, at times, violent. Protesters have previously used Molotov cocktails and improvised explosive devices (papas explosivas) against security forces, and similar tactics remain a concern in isolated incidents. Active student groups and labor organizations continue to organize demonstrations, sometimes including anti-U.S. messaging. Most protests focus on social and economic reforms such as labor conditions, fuel prices, healthcare, education, unions or student leadership. Demonstrations frequently take place on major roadways, causing significant traffic disruptions, particularly in large cities like Bogotá. 

The large-scale nationwide protests known as the Paro Nacional in 2021 have not reoccurred with the same intensity 2025 saw protests related to economic concerns, especially fuel prices, cost of living, and government reforms. These demonstrations were typically brief but still disrupted transportation networks and public transit. Roadblocks remain a common tactic, at times affecting access routes into major urban areas and airports. 

Demonstrations tied to international issues, including the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, have occurred periodically in major cities. While most of these gatherings have been peaceful, some have caused localized disruptions to traffic, public services, and access to government facilities. 

Protests and demonstrations following the 2026 Presidential elections have been localized. 

Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest. 

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment 

There is very little anti-U.S. sentiment in Colombia. 

Law Enforcement 

The Colombia National Police (CNP) is a nationwide service responsible for enforcing Colombian laws and is formally under the Ministry of Defense. CNP shares law enforcement investigatory duties with the Attorney General’s Corps of Technical Investigators. Migration Colombia, under the Foreign Affairs Ministry, is the immigration authority. In addition to its responsibility to defend the country against external threats, the Colombian Army can support internal security. For example, military units sometimes provided logistical support and security for criminal investigators to collect evidence in high-conflict or remote areas. Civilian authorities generally maintain effective control over security forces. Members of the security forces have committed some abuses. 

Police Response 

The Colombia National Police (CNP) is a professional force with significant experience in security and counternarcotics operations. However, it faces resource and workload constraints that can affect its ability to deter and investigate crime. Response times to emergencies vary depending on location and demand. Response to alarms or emergency calls to disrupt burglaries or crimes in progress depend on the area an incident occurs. In urban areas, police operate from neighborhood substations known as CAIs (Immediate Attention Centers), and patrols are conducted on foot and by vehicle. Police and military personnel are also present at key facilities and major routes. While generally effective, service quality can be inconsistent, and there have been reports of difficulties in filing police reports. Instances of corruption and misconduct have been documented within its ranks. If you feel you are the victim of police harassment or corruption, call the police complaint line (Transparencia Institucional) at 166. 

Transportation Security 

Road Safety 

Traffic laws in Colombia are governed by the National Traffic Code and recent road-safety reforms that emphasize stricter enforcement, safer vehicles, and better-trained drivers. Drivers must carry a valid license, vehicle documents, and mandatory insurance (SOAT). Penalties apply for violations like driving without documentation or insurance. Key rules include obeying speed limits, traffic signals, and restrictions. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. 

In general, road conditions in the major cities are adequate, but not good, for vehicle travel. Traffic in Bogotá is exceptionally congested, and road conditions are often poor, contributing to traffic accidents and creating opportunities for criminals to rob vehicles. In rural areas, roads can be substandard and dangerous (e.g., no emergency lanes, poor lighting) and landslides frequently close roads. Accident response in rural areas is slow. Tourist highways are generally well-maintained. 

Transport associations like Colfecar and Fedetranscarga have publicly warned escalations in attacks, robberies, use of small arms fire, and road blockades affecting major transport corridors. Criminal security threats on Colombia’s highways remains a concern. Between January and May 2025 alone, transporters reported hundreds of highway blockades that caused hours of logistical delay, causing economic impacts.  

In some rural and strategic corridors, fear of ambush, theft, or blockade has contributed to a perception that travelling by road, particularly at night or through regions with known criminal activity, carries elevated risk. Road users and logistics operators continue to adapt through convoying, route planning, and heightened situational awareness. 

To ensure safe driving experiences, use GPS navigation, drive during daylight, and be aware of road hazards. Also, travelers should do vehicle safety inspections (tires, brakes, lights) prior to travel. 

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.   

Public Transportation Safety 

Public transportation in Colombia is a significant concern for both authorities and users, with ongoing efforts to strengthen security. In major cities, authorities have implemented plans involving large deployments of police and security forces at transit hubs and on buses to deter crime, theft, and violence in systems such as TransMilenio and SITP. Recent government action in early 2026 included initiatives to improve safety for vulnerable passengers, particularly women. Public transportation in urban areas is generally safer than that of rural areas but risks such as pickpocketing, robbery, and violent crimes still exist. Public transportation in rural areas of Colombia have elevated safety risks due to limited regulation and limited law enforcement presence.  

Travelers should avoid unvetted and formal transport services, which are more at risk of criminal activity such as robbery and extortion. Travelers should also avoid nighttime travel, especially on unpaved or secondary roads that limits emergency response times. Passengers should avoid displaying valuables and remain alert during travel. 

See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.  

Vaccinations 

Travelers to Colombia are generally advised to be up to date on routine vaccinations, including chickenpox, measles, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, shingles and influenza, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).  

The following mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent in Colombia: Chikungunya, Dengue, Malaria, Yellow fever, and Zika. 

Travelers should confirm immunization status prior to departure and carry vaccination records when traveling to higher-risk rural areas. Vaccination documentation must appear on a yellow WHO immunization card. Other countries require yellow fever vaccine for travelers coming from Colombia.   

Travelers should be up to date on all routine vaccines before every trip and should visit their doctor at least a month prior to travel. 

Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations. 

Issues Traveling with Medications 

Travelers to Colombia should carry medications in their original pharmacy-labeled containers along with a copy of the prescription to avoid issues with customs inspection or questions about controlled substances. Travelers should verify legality in advance with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection (Colombia) or relevant embassy guidance. Controlled substances or injectable medications may require special authorization or physician documentation. Travelers should also keep medications in carry-on luggage to prevent loss or delays due to checked baggage issues. 

The combination of evolving health policy, regional disease risk, and customs enforcement emphasizes the importance of pre‑travel preparation and compliance with vaccination and medication rules to avoid delays or complications at entry and during travel. 

Colombia does not allow the sale of certain psychiatric medications. Travelers should carry a sufficient supply for their trips. Bringing prohibited drugs can result in confiscation, fines, or arrest. 

Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication. 

Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.   

Water Quality 

Water quality in Colombia is regulated by the CRA and SSPD and supported by municipal water treatment standards, with tap water generally considered safe for consumption in major urban areas. However, water quality can vary significantly in rural or remote areas due to limited resources and limited treatment capacity. Travelers are advised to use bottled, filtered, or boiled water outside major cities to reduce the risk of waterborne illness. Standard precautions include avoiding untreated water, ice of unknown origin, and raw produce washed in non-potable water sources.  

Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water? 

Natural Disasters 

The U.S. Department of State has included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Colombia, indicating that a natural disaster, or its aftermath, poses danger. 

Natural disasters in Colombia include earthquakes, volcanic activity, and seasonal hazards such as heavy rainfall that can trigger landslides and disrupt transportation. Periodic drought conditions, particularly during El Niño cycles, can increase wildfire risk in certain regions. Heavy rainfall may cause landslides and flooding, resulting in roadblocks and damaged infrastructure, occasionally leaving travelers stranded for extended periods. Emergency plans should consider that help may not be available for 72+ hours. 

Review OSAC’s reports, Landslides: What Are They and How to Prepare, Earthquake Preparedness Toolkit. 

Cybersecurity 

Cyber threats remain a significant security concern in Colombia. These threats include financially motivated attacks such as ransomware, phishing, and fraud. Government institutions and private sector entities continue to face risks to sensitive data and critical systems. 

Colombia passed Law 2502 of 2025, recognizing AI-driven identity theft and deepfakes as aggravated offenses. Cybersecurity policy CONPES 3701 and CONPES 3854 have been effectively replaced with CONPES 3995 and are no longer considered a current guidance policy. Colombia has strengthened its cybersecurity framework through updated national strategies, including CONPES 3995.  

The Joint Cyber Command of the Colombian Armed Forces has emphasized the importance of continuous cybersecurity control, promoting key measures such as personnel training, two-factor authentication (2FA), data encryption, access control to devices and networks, antivirus updates, and the implementation of a robust cybersecurity architecture. 

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage. 

Counterintelligence Issues 

Colombia’s counterintelligence concerns are primarily driven by internal and hybrid threats rather than traditional foreign espionage. The most significant issues are infiltration and influence by FARC dissidents and other criminal organizations. Individuals linked to armed networks may have accessed or leaked sensitive information or compromised security processes. Corruption risks and coercion of local officials jeopardize intelligence and operations. Colombia’s intelligence sector has managed reform efforts but remains criminally exploited. 

Import/Export Restrictions 

Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from bringing firearms and ammunition into the country. Colombian law also restricts the importation of plants and animals (or products made from either). 

Colombian law forbids the export of pre-Columbian objects and other artifacts protected by cultural patrimony statutes. U.S. customs officials are obliged to seize pre-Columbian objects and certain colonial religious artwork brought into the United States. A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website. 

Additional resources and reports can be found in the OSAC Traveler Toolkit.