Colombia

Violent crime

Violent crime and gang activity is common.

'Express kidnapping' also occurs. Criminals abduct people and force them to withdraw funds from ATMs before releasing them. People in taxis are a common target. Don't resist or you may be killed or injured.

Robberies and assaults take place after victims accept spiked food, drinks, cigarettes or chewing gum.

Thieves use drugs, such as scopolamine, either by aerosol spray or paper handouts. These drugs can cause serious medical problems, including loss of consciousness and memory loss. Hotspots include nightclubs, bars, restaurants, public buses and city streets.

Hikers are sometimes robbed at gunpoint, including when hiking on trails in and around Bogotá. Reduce your risk by hiring a reputable, experienced tour guide.

The most dangerous departments (provinces) include:

• Antioquia
• Arauca
• Caquetá
• Cauca
• Chocó
• Guainía
• Guaviare
• Meta
• Nariño
• Norte de Santander
• Putumayo
• Valle de Cauca
• Vichada

Risks are lower in these departments:

• Medellín
• Popayan
• Quibdó
• Villavicencio
• Pasto
• Ipiales
• Cali

Drug-related criminal activity creates danger in:

• regions within 20km of the Venezuelan and Ecuadorian borders
• the port cities of Buenaventura and Tumaco

In these areas, criminal groups attack, extort, kidnap, detonate car bombs and damage infrastructure.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• avoid travelling at night
• if possible, fly into Colombia during the day
• keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even while moving
• stay in reputable accommodation with good security
• try not to travel by road in rural areas (fly instead)
• be careful when travelling alone, using ATMs, or travelling in or near tugurios (slums)

Always be alert to your own safety and security.

If you suspect criminals have drugged you or your fellow travellers, get urgent medical help.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is also common. This occurs in major tourist areas, including at the airport in Bogotá and near hotels.

Organised criminals operate in urban areas, including Bogotá and Medellín.

Criminals pose as police officers, both in Bogotá and in popular tourist towns. People have reported harassment, theft and extortion.

Be alert on public transport. Don't leave your luggage unattended, in overhead bins or under the seat on buses.

Terrorist attacks remain a significant threat, even though security has improved.

Attacks could occur anywhere and at any time in Colombia.

Possible targets include:

• government, military and police sites, or personnel
• airports
• public transport
• nightclubs, hotels and restaurants
• shopping malls
• corporate facilities

The most well-known terrorist groups, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN):

• mainly target Colombian government and economic infrastructure
• sometimes target Western companies and employees
• use terrorist-style tactics to conduct small-scale attacks

A temporary ceasefire between the Government of Colombia and the ELN ended on 9 January 2018. After this, the ELN resumed attacks against government and economic targets.

Explosions occur throughout Colombia, including in Bogotá.

Some recent attacks include:

• 17 January 2019 – a car bomb exploded at a Police College on the outskirts of Bogotá. People died.
• 17 June 2017 – a bomb exploded in the Andino shopping centre, in Bogotá, killing 3 people, including a foreigner, and injuring others.
• Early 2017 – several bomb attacks took place in Bogotá, including one outside the Santamaria bullring in La Marcarena. Mainly police officers were among the 40 injured.

Terrorists, criminals and armed gangs operate from small towns and rural areas. This creates danger for travellers. Armed gangs are called 'BACRIM' in Spanish.

Violence due to the BACRIM has spilled over into major cities. These groups are involved in drugs, extortion, kidnapping and robbery.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• look out for possible threats
• avoid possible targets for terror attacks, where possible
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the media for emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow advice from local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

More information:

• Terrorism

Colombia has one of the highest rates of kidnappings in the world.

Criminals sometimes kidnap and murder foreigners, including children. In recent years, criminals have kidnapped several Australians.

Most kidnappings are for ransom. Groups such as the FARC and the ELN in rural areas are involved in kidnapping.

If, despite the risks, you travel to an area where there's a threat of kidnapping:

• seek professional security advice
• arrange personal security measures

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Strikes are also common.

Protests and rallies may occur during elections.

This can affect local transport. Protesters or criminal groups may set up roadblocks, especially in rural areas.

If you visit areas affected by strikes and roadblocks, you may be unable to leave for days or weeks.

Get advice on current road closures from the Colombian Highway Police information line. Call 767.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid protests and rallies
• if a protest occurs, leave if it's safe to do so
• monitor the news for possible unrest and avoid those places
• follow advice from local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Peace process

The government and the FARC struck a peace agreement in late 2016 after decades of armed conflict.

The peace agreement is Colombia-wide but some FARC elements haven't signed on.

Peace negotiations between the government and other rebel groups continue.

Some small factions may still attempt to disrupt the peace process. They target attacks on government buildings and security forces.

In some regions, the security situation could deteriorate rapidly.

Border with Venezuela

The Venezuelan Government has closed its land border with Colombia until further notice.

Ongoing political tensions with neighbouring countries mean border closures can happen at short notice.

Don't attempt to cross the Venezuela-Colombia border by land, even if it's open.

Colombia experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• earthquakes
• volcanoes
• landslides and mudslides
• flooding
• hurricanes
• tsunamis

Some volcanoes are active. Get advice on recent volcanic activity from local authorities if you plan to go hiking.

Colombia can experience tsunamis.

In the Indian and Pacific Oceans, large, destructive tsunamis happen more often. This is due to large earthquakes occurring along major tectonic plates and ocean trenches.​

Many parts of Colombia experience heavy rainfall. Landslides, mudslides and flooding are common. This can affect travel to some parts of the country. 

Monitor the news and ask for local advice before entering affected areas.

Hurricanes and severe weather

Coastal areas of Colombia can experience hurricanes.

If a hurricane is approaching:

• find a local shelter
• follow advice from local authorities
• monitor the media for updates

If there's a hurricane:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• flights out may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

To stay safe:

• know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plans
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in touch with friends and family

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

This advice predates COVID-19 and the Australian Government's travel ban for all Australians.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Colombia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 is present in Colombia.

You can find updated information on the COVID-19 situation from the Colombian Ministry of Health (in Spanish), or contact your closest Colombian embassy or consulate.

The Australian Embassy in Bogota remains open, with staff working remotely. Consular services may be limited.

More information:

• Colombian Ministry of Health (in Spanish)

Yellow fever and other insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Colombia. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Zika virus is widespread. If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health advises you to discuss travel plans with your doctor. Consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas.

Malaria is a risk in all areas below 800m, which excludes Bogotá.

Other insect-borne diseases that are a risk include:

• dengue
• Chagas disease
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Altitude sickness

Many areas are above 2500m, including Bogotá (2640m).

You may suffer altitude sickness above 2500m, especially if you ascend quickly.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It can affect anyone, even if you're physically fit.

You're at more risk of altitude sickness if you:

• have had altitude sickness before
• exercise or drink alcohol before getting used to the altitude
• have health problems that affect breathing

If you plan to travel to high altitude areas, see your doctor before you go.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is widespread. Take precautions if you take part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• tuberculosis
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• rabies

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes in rural areas
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities in private hospitals in Bogotá and other major cities is reasonable.

Services outside major cities can be limited.

Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is expensive.

Doctors and hospitals expect cash payment or confirmation of travel insurance before treating you. This includes emergency care.

There are 3 hyperbaric chambers:

• Cali (Camaras Hiperbaricas Leader Life)
• Palmira (Centro Medico San Agustin)
• Bogotá (Vida Plena – Instituto Medico De Terapia Ceular Suiza)

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. People are usually evacuated to the US. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Colombia has severe penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. This includes long sentences in local jails.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

It's illegal to take photos of military bases and strategic sites.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

The Colombian Government expects Colombian citizens to enter and exit on a Colombian passport or other valid Colombian travel document. This includes dual nationals.

You could face delays at immigration if you're a dual national but you don't have a Colombian travel document.

If you're a male dual national aged over 18 years, you may be required to complete national service if you visit Colombia.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

The following information may not apply while COVID-19 travel restrictions are in place.

Visa-free travel for short stays

If you're visiting for tourism and plan to stay for 90 days or less, you generally won't need a visa to enter Colombia.

Immigration officers can refuse your entry, even if you meet the criteria for visa-free entry. They may ask you to show proof of return or onward travel.

For other situations, you'll need to get a visa before you travel.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an embassy or consulate of Colombia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Travel via the United States

If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry or transit requirements.

Check your visa requirements with your nearest embassy or consulate of the United States before you travel.

More information:

• Travel advice for the US

Colombian authorities are restricting the entry of all travellers. All land, sea and river borders are closed. There is a ban in place on all international arrivals by air. The availability of outbound flights has been affected. Contact your airline to confirm the status of your flight or to make alternative arrangements. 

A country-wide quarantine is in place. Preventative isolation is mandatory, with limited exceptions to allow access to essential services. Supermarkets and pharmacies are open, but only one member per household is allowed to go out to make purchases at any one time. Domestic air travel is prohibited.

Some cities and regions have introduced further restrictions on movements. In some areas, there are restrictions on movement depending on certain digits of identification documents or gender. Restrictions may be introduced at short notice.

During the quarantine, exercising outdoors is permitted during certain hours and within 1km of your accommodation. Self-isolation is mandatory for everyone over the age of 70. Children from 6 to 17 years old are allowed to do physical activities outdoors 3 times a week, for half an hour, between 8 am and 11 am or 2pm to 5pm, with an accompanying adult.

There are limits on the minimum physical distance allowed between people in public spaces. The use of facemasks in public spaces is mandatory in most areas.

Check for local information about movement restrictions and follow the advice of local authorities.

Emergency services, hospitals and health clinics are operating. The Australian Embassy in Bogota remains open, with staff working remotely.  

If you're staying in Colombia:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19
• ensure you have arrangements in place for an extended stay
• keep in contact with family and friends so they know you're safe and well.

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Colombia. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF)

Border crossings

All land, sea and river borders are closed.

Entry stamp

Check your entry stamp carefully. Officials will fine you if you stay in the country longer than your entry stamp allows.

Airport tax

You need to pay an airport tax when you leave.

Travel with children

A child who is a Colombian citizen or resident travelling alone or with 1 parent must carry:

• a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent(s) that authorises travel
• a copy of the child's birth certificate

Both documents must be translated into Spanish and notarised by the Colombian Embassy or Consulate in Australia.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Colombia well before you travel.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

You must get an entry stamp in your passport if you enter by land. If you don't, Colombian officials could force you to go back to the border to get the stamp.

You can use emergency passports to enter, transit and exit Colombia. They must be valid for at least 6 months from when you enter.

The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP).

Declare amounts over $US10,000 in local or foreign currency when you arrive. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can change US dollars and euros in exchange bureaus and commercial banks.

Major hotels and tourist places accept international credit cards.

ATM and credit card facilities are more limited in rural areas. Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work in Colombia.

Credit card fraud and robbery at ATMs is common. See Safety

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as diving.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Driving permit

To drive in Colombia you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

You're 3 times more likely to be killed in a vehicle accident in Colombia than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• aggressive driving
• poor lighting

Other risks when you travel by road, particularly in rural areas, include:

• armed robbery
• kidnapping
• other violence
• landmines

Not all areas with landmines are marked.

Illegal armed groups set up roadblocks. This happens in places including:

• routes to rural tourist destinations such as Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City)
• inland of Parque Nacional Tayrona

Many parts of Colombia experience heavy rainfall. Landslides and flooding are common and may affect travel.

Get advice on current road closures from the Colombian Highway Information line. Call 767.

To reduce your risks while travelling by road:

• check you have adequate insurance before driving
• learn local traffic laws and practices before driving
• avoid road travel in rural areas — fly between cities instead
• avoid travelling at night
• stay on well-travelled roads
• monitor the media and get local advice on your proposed route before you travel

If you travel to Parque Nacional Tayrona, don't venture inland. Stick to beach areas and resorts.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Criminals frequently rob taxi passengers. You're more at risk when travelling alone and hailing taxis from the street.

Use a phone dispatch service or taxi service app to book a licensed taxi. Ask for help from staff at hotels, hostels, restaurants or entertainment venues.

Public transport

Public transport isn't always safe. Criminals frequently target buses.

Criminals acting as bus company staff tell people to put their personal belongings in the overhead bins. As soon as they're distracted, criminals steal their belongings. Many Australian travellers have been robbed like this.

To reduce your risks on public transport:

• book a vehicle from a reputable provider
• stay alert
• don't use overhead luggage compartments
• don't leave your belongings unattended

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Boat travel

International cruise liners visit Cartagena.

Travel on river craft is dangerous. Boats are often overloaded and lack lifesaving equipment.

Always wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Colombia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 123.

Medical emergencies

Call 123 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 112 or go to the local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Bogotá. You can only visit the Embassy by appointment.

Australian Embassy, Bogotá

Edificio Tierra Firme

Avenida Carrera 9 No. 115-06

Oficina 2003

Bogotá, Colombia

Email: consular.bogota@dfat.gov.au

Phone: (+57 1) 657 8030

Website: colombia.embassy.gov.au (Spanish)

Facebook: Embajada de Australia en Colombia y Venezuela

Twitter: @AusEmbCO

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia