The U.S. State Department urges Americans to reconsider travel to Colombia due to increased safety risks while certain areas elevate to a level 4 restriction.
At a Glance
- The U.S. has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Colombia due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
- Avoid areas like Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander due to heightened security threats.
- The Colombia-Venezuela border region is notably dangerous due to crime and armed conflict.
- Political demonstrations may disrupt travel and become violent.
Rundown on Colombia’s Travel Advisory
The U.S. State Department upgraded Colombia’s travel advisory to Level 3, warning travelers about threats such as crime, terrorism, and civil unrest. Certain regions near the Venezuela border hold the highest caution level, urging all to avoid travel there. These advisories highlight the region’s ongoing security challenges.
Specific areas like Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander face heightened advisories due to known criminal activity and active terrorist groups. Individuals considering travel must prepare for potential hazards and consult State Department updates frequently.
Security Threats and Regional Dangers
Along with the travel advisory, travelers should account for various security threats across Colombia, including organized crime activities and frequent occurrences of violent crimes. Both locals and foreigners face risks of kidnapping, robbery, and assault in many areas.
“Violent crime, like murder, assault, and robbery, is common in many areas in Colombia. In some places, organized crime is rampant. This includes extortion, robbery, and kidnapping.” – U.S. State Department.
On the border with Venezuela, crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict further exacerbate the challenges, and direct advisories state not to cross into Venezuela due to detention risks by Venezuelan authorities.
Travel Precautions and Recommendations
With potential political demonstrations contributing to the volatile environment, the State Department recommends avoiding any protests and maintaining safety precautions, such as staying low-profile and traveling during the day. Special advisories for governmental employees include restriction from certain transportation modes and routes.
“Additionally, political demonstrations are common throughout Colombia, according to the state department. They can shut down roadways without notice, limit access to public transportation, interrupt travel within and between cities and become violent enough to cause injury and death, according to the state department.” – State department.
Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for alerts and use recommended insurance options for emergencies. The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá remains a point of contact for citizen assistance, although capabilities in certain areas are limited.
