Safety tips for backpackers in Colombia: Practical and uncomplicated guide

👀 Why talk about safety for backpackers in Colombia?

Colombia is an incredible country: warm people, movie-like landscapes, delicious food, and affordable prices. But as in any adventure, preparation is everything. This country has changed a lot in recent years, and although it is much safer than before. Here we bring you practical tips, easy to apply and designed to avoid problems.

White Beach, Cartagena

📍 Before traveling: the basics you should know

Always have Internet (even if it's just WhatsApp)

Having a connection is not a luxury, it's safety! Buy a local SIM card with data as soon as you arrive. The most reliable companies are:

• Claro (wide coverage)

• Wom

• Movistar

💡 Tip: Use apps like Google Maps offline so you don't get lost.

📂 Upload your documents to the cloud

Scan or take photos of your passport, cards, and reservations and save them in Google Drive or Dropbox. That way, if you lose something, you don't lose EVERYTHING.

💊 Carry a basic first aid kit

In some rural areas, there are no pharmacies nearby. Include:

• Painkillers (like acetaminophen)

• Antidiarrheals

• Mosquito repellent

• Sunscreen

📅 Plan, but leave room for spontaneity

It's good to know where you're going, but also leave room to change plans if something doesn't feel right. Flexibility is key to safe travel.

🧭 During the trip: Tips to move without problems

🚫 Avoid showing valuable items

Seriously, no expensive watches, gold chains or cell phones in hand. Keep a low profile. Use a fanny pack inside your clothes to keep important things.

🕒 Go out partying, but come back early

In tourist areas like Medellín, Cartagena or Bogotá you can go out at night, but:

• Don't stray from lit areas

• Use apps like DiDi or InDriver (more used than Uber)

• Avoid walking alone in unknown neighborhoods

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Make friends, but don't be naive

Colombia has incredible people, but there are always exceptions. Don't give too much personal information and be suspicious if someone is "too friendly, too fast".

Tayrona Park, Santa Marta, Magdalena

📍 Learn about the areas to avoid

Get information from locals or at your hostel about dangerous areas. Some parts of Cali, Bogotá or even the coast can be tricky. Always ask before going to a new neighborhood.

📦 Use lockers or safes in hostels

Don't leave valuable items on the bed or within everyone's reach. Almost all hostels offer lockers or safe spaces.

Safe transportation in Colombia

🚌 official buses

Try to board only buses at the terminals of each city or where the locals recommend you, avoid boarding buses that are offered to you on the street.

🚗 Use transport apps

As we mentioned, DiDi, Cabify, InDriver or even legal taxis (called by app or from a base) are safer than street taxis, but if you want to use.

⚠️ Common scams you should know

• Change of fake bills: Check the change well. Use small bills.

• False guides: Don't accept tours from strangers. Hire with companies or hostels.

• Inflated prices for tourists: Always ask the price before consuming or getting on something.

🦟 Health and vaccines

• You don't need many vaccines to enter, but yellow fever is recommended if you are going to areas like the Amazon or Sierra Nevada.

• Be careful with the water. In big cities, you can drink from the tap, but in towns, it's better to buy bottled water.

Below we leave you a blog about the vaccines you should have to continue your trip peacefully

💡 Traveler Tip: Not sure what vaccines you need? Don't worry. Below we leave you a blog where we tell you all about the recommended vaccines so you can continue your trip through Colombia with total peace of mind and without surprises.

🙋‍♂️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is Colombia safe for backpackers in 2025?

  Yes, if you take basic precautions. Most travelers have no problems if they inform themselves and act with common sense.

• How safe is it to use public transportation?

  In general, it is safe during the day, but avoid peak hours and take care of your belongings. At night it is better to opt for transport apps.

• Can I travel alone?

  Of course! Many do. Just stay connected and follow the recommendations in this article.

🧭 In summary...

Backpacking through Colombia is an unforgettable experience, but as in any trip, safety is not improvised. If you take these tips with you, I assure you that you will have more time to enjoy and less to worry about.

🚀 What now?

Ready to pack? Just remember:

• Inform yourself before arriving

• Keep your eyes open without living in fear

• Trust your instinct: if something doesn't feel right, don't do it

👉 Did you like this guide? Share it with other backpackers and save the link for your next trip!

Now that you know how to stay safe while touring Colombia, Backpacker 😉🎒, we hope you have an unforgettable experience, full of good decisions and better stories. Remember: traveling safely is traveling peacefully. Below we leave you other guides that can help you plan your next great adventure. A big hug and good trip! 🌎✈️