The State Department urges Americans to reconsider travel as violence, terrorism, and civil unrest escalate across key regions.
ountry at Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”) due to ongoing risks related to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping, according to travel.state.gov.
The updated advisory includes new information about recent threats of civil unrest and kidnapping. It warns that violent crime—such as homicides, assaults, and robberies—is common in several areas, and organized crime groups continue operating, engaging in extortion, kidnapping, and robbery.
There are also warnings about terrorism risks: government facilities, tourist areas, shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants are considered potential targets for attacks.
What does Level 3 mean?
The US travel advisory system has four levels:
- Level 1: Take normal precautions
- Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- Level 3: Reconsider travel
- Level 4: Do not travel
Colombia remains at Level 3, advising travelers to weigh risks carefully before visiting. Certain regions, like Arauca, Cauca (except Popayán), Norte de Santander, and the Colombia-Venezuela border, are at Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”), due to high crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict.
Crossing into Venezuela from Colombia is also discouraged because of the risk of arbitrary detentions by Venezuelan authorities.
Safety recommendations:
Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile, avoid showing signs of wealth, and stay alert. Travel should be during daylight hours, using verified transportation only (no street taxis or unregulated public transport).
Citizens should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and allow the US Embassy to assist in emergencies.
Additional restrictions:
US government employees in Colombia face more restrictions: they cannot travel to border regions, use motorcycles, or ride in unauthorized public transport, to reduce security risks.
Civil unrest:
Political protests can erupt without warning, disrupting local traffic and public transportation. Some protests may become violent, posing risks to residents and visitors.
Other risks:
While many tourist areas are relatively safe, risks from drug trafficking, organized crime, and armed groups persist, especially in rural areas and some urban zones. Security forces may have limited ability to respond in remote regions.
Final recommendation:
The State Department urges US citizens to monitor security updates, register with STEP, and prepare contingency plans before traveling to Colombia.
