Is Colombia safe for expats to live in?

Colombia's safety has improved dramatically since the 1990s, but the country still requires awareness and street smarts. Here's an honest assessment:

The Transformation:

Colombia has undergone one of the most remarkable safety transformations in modern history:

• Medellin's homicide rate dropped from 375/100,000 (1991) to under 25/100,000 today
• Bogota's 2024 homicide rate (15/100,000) was lower than Washington DC (27/100,000)
• Major cities have invested heavily in security infrastructure

Current Safety Status:

The US State Department maintains a Level 3 advisory ("exercise increased caution") for Colombia. This is the same level as Mexico and many popular destinations.

Reality for Expats:

Most expats living in standard neighborhoods experience Colombia as quite safe for daily life. The key is understanding local norms.

"No Dar Papaya" - The Golden Rule:

This Colombian phrase means "don't give papaya" (don't give opportunity). It's the essential safety philosophy:

• Don't flash expensive items (jewelry, new phones, cameras)
• Don't walk around distracted or visibly lost
• Don't get extremely drunk in unfamiliar areas
• Don't take risks you wouldn't take in any major city

Main Safety Concerns:

Petty crime:

• Phone snatching is common
• Pickpocketing in crowded areas
• Bag theft on streets

Prevention: Keep phone in pocket (not hand), bag secured, stay aware.

Express kidnapping:

Criminals (sometimes fake taxi drivers) take victims to ATMs to withdraw money.

Prevention: ONLY use ride apps (Uber, DiDi, Cabify) - never street taxis.

Scopolamine drugging:

Drug that incapacitates victims, administered through drinks, cigarettes, or even paper flyers.

Prevention: Never leave drinks unattended, don't accept items from strangers.

Dating app scams:

Criminals use dating apps to set up robbery situations.

Prevention: Meet in public, tell friends where you're going, be cautious.

Safe Neighborhoods:

Medellin:

• El Poblado - safest, upscale, heavily patrolled
• Laureles - safe, local feel
• Envigado - safe, residential
• Avoid: Downtown late at night, unfamiliar comunas

Bogota:

• Usaquen - safe, trendy
• Zona Rosa/Zona T - safe, nightlife area
• Chapinero Alto - improving, popular
• Avoid: La Candelaria at night, southern areas

Areas to Avoid:

• Rural areas in Choco, Cauca, Valle de Cauca (armed groups)
• Venezuelan border areas
• Downtown areas late at night
• Anywhere unfamiliar without local guidance

Practical Safety Tips:

• Use Uber/DiDi exclusively - never street taxis
• Don't display valuables - keep phone hidden when walking
• Learn basic Spanish - helps in emergencies
• Stay in established neighborhoods
• Trust your instincts - leave if something feels wrong
• Share location with trusted contacts
• Don't carry large cash amounts
• Keep copies of important documents

Perspective:

Most expats live in Colombia for years without serious incidents. The key is:

• Choosing safe neighborhoods
• Following local safety norms
• Staying aware without being paranoid
• Not taking unnecessary risks

The Colombia of Netflix shows is largely history. Modern Medellin and Bogota are vibrant cities where millions live safely every day.

Emergency Numbers:

• Police: 123
• Medical: 125
• Fire: 119
• General: 112

Colombia rewards those who approach it with respect and awareness. It's not dangerous if you're smart, but it's not a place to let your guard down completely either.