Colombia Travel Advisory 2025: Official recommendations for safe travel

Did you know that many travelers are surprised to discover what the official recommendations really say about Colombia? Before you imagine jungles, beaches, and mountains, there is something that few people review and can make the difference between an improvised trip and a well-planned experience. Stay until the end, because we will tell you the detail that many ignore.

What is the Colombia Travel Advisory and why is it important?

The Colombia Travel Advisory is a guide published by some governments, such as the United States, to help their citizens travel safely. It does not mean that Colombia is dangerous, but useful tips are offered according to each region of the country. It is a tool designed for you to make informed decisions, as part of your travel preparation.

What is it really like to travel through Colombia?

Colombia is a country with unique landscapes, modern cities, paradisiacal beaches, and a vibrant culture. Each year, thousands of tourists enjoy places like Cartagena, Bogotá, Medellín, the Coffee Axis, Leticia in the Amazon, or Santa Marta without any problems. As in any other destination in the world, there are areas where it is recommended to take more precautions. The key is to know which ones, plan well, and enjoy with peace of mind.

Where can I check the updated Travel Advisory?

You can visit official sites like travel.state.gov or the foreign relations pages of your country. There you will find maps and descriptions by regions. Some areas are marked with recommendation levels (from 1 to 4), which indicate whether you should take normal precautions or consider other alternatives.

Image Obtained from: Gov.uk

What do the Travel Advisory levels mean?

The level system helps you understand how prepared you should be when visiting each region:

• Level 1: Normal precautions (like on any trip).

• Level 2: More attention in certain areas (for example, rural areas).

• Level 3: Consider whether it is necessary to travel.

• Level 4: Avoid traveling for the time being (specific and less touristy areas).

Generally, the most visited destinations by tourists are at Level 1 or 2, and are considered safe to travel with common sense.

Practical recommendations for your trip to Colombia

• Plan your route in advance and review official information.

• Use reliable transportation, such as apps or services recommended by hotels.

• Keep your personal belongings safe, as you would in any major city in the world.

• Register as a traveler at your embassy if your country offers it.

• Have active travel insurance, especially if you are going to do adventure activities or explore less touristy areas.

These recommendations are part of good practice on any trip, not just in Colombia.

What if my destination is in an area with a special recommendation?

If you plan to visit a region with Level 3 or 4, inform yourself well, talk to local travel agencies or avoid going without a guide. Sometimes it is not about constant insecurity, but about lack of infrastructure or limited access. In many cases, these alerts are more for general precautions than for strict prohibitions.

Key fact: some travel insurance companies may set conditions if you visit areas marked with a high level, so checking the Travel Advisory also helps you to have clarity about your medical coverage or assistance abroad.

We took this photo of the cave paintings during our visit to San José del Guaviare, an area classified as "to be avoided", but when we went, without a guide or tour, we felt safe all the time. This region has been open to tourism for a few years. Below we leave you the travel guide in case you want to go.

Conclusion: Traveling to Colombia, with information and tranquility

Colombia is a country full of life, nature, history, and hospitality. Like any destination, it is best to travel informed. The Travel Advisory is not there to scare you, but to help you better organize your trip. Consulting it is a simple step that will give you more confidence to enjoy everything Colombia has to offer.

And that detail that many ignore? That checking the Travel Advisory is not only to know if a place is safe: it also helps you to make the most of your trip, avoid unforeseen events and be covered in any situation. So before packing your suitcase, take a few minutes to inform yourself. Your next adventure will thank you.

Now that you know how to inform yourself and travel with confidence, we hope that Colombia is on your list of next destinations. Mochiliante😉🌎, we leave you below some guides to continue planning your trip.
A big hug and see you on the next adventure! 😊✈️