It became famous for being the home to the notorious drug cartel leader, Pablo Escobar, but what many people don’t know is that the city is incredibly beautiful.

The city is surrounded by mountains, offering plenty of nature spots to explore, as well as housing a vibrant art scene, spectacular nightlife, and bustling parks.

While Medellin rose to fame because of its crime, it has significantly cleaned up its act and is now a hot spot for tourists from all over the world.

To learn a little more about what to do in Medellin, we interviewed Dave Lee who has been living in Medellin since 2009 and has created his own Medellin Travel Guide.

Dave shares his insider knowledge on things to do in Medellin, as well as where to stay, eat, drink, and where to go for some salsa dancing. Here’s what he thinks!

Is Medellin Worth Visiting?

The city is situated in a beautiful valley, offering mountain views from every angle. Combining the natural setting with spring-like temperatures year round, Medellin offers a very comfortable climate both day and night.

Nightlife in Medellin is a big draw among younger travelers, as paisas love to dance, drink, and party. The women are reputed to be the most beautiful in Colombia, if not all of South America, and that reputation alone continues to attract more and more male travelers.

Most foreigners know little about Medellin other than it was the former home and stomping grounds of Pablo Escobar, and therefore once listed as the most dangerous city in the world (though not anymore).

In the last few years, several companies have set up organized tours to cater to the tourist demand for information on this tragic chapter in the city’s history.

It’s also become a hot spot for digital nomads over recent years because of its affordable accommodation prices and plenty of attractions in Medellin. If you consider all this, it’s definitely worth visiting Medellin.

Best Things to Do in Medellin

Now you know a little bit about why you should visit Medellin, here are all the top attractions to add to your list!

1. Walk Around Botero Plaza

Medellin is home to Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero. In the city center, you can walk through Botero Plaza and get your picture taken amongst a few dozen of his large metal sculptures (23 in total).

The plaza also features the Museo de Antioquia which features some of Botero’s paintings, as well as other Latin artists.

You can also find the Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture Museum here too.

2. Take the Cable Car

One of the reasons Medellin is a popular place for expats to live in Colombia is the metro system. Medellin features Colombia’s only metro train.

From the main train line that runs North/South through the city, are several cable cars (like ski gondolas) that run up the mountains to poorer neighborhoods.

These cable cars are meant to give residents easier access to the city, however, they also offer a cheap and fun way to get panoramic views of the entire city making it one of the top attractions in Medellin Colombia.

The Metro Line Cable car is part of the metro network, so you can use them as you would a subway train. There are actually four lines, but line K has the best views. It starts at Acevedo metro station and takes you to the Santo Domingo neighborhood.

You can take the metrocable up and down in less than 30 minutes, and the views of the city below as stunning. If you’re looking for quick things to do in Medellin, this is a great option.

3. Try Latin American Cuisine

For a taste of the local cuisine, head to Mondongo’s where you can try the mondongo (tripe) soup.

Colombian cuisine is very hearty and filling. A popular dish is bandeja paisa, which contains sausage, pork cracklings, beans, plantains, rice, and a fried egg.

Mexican food is often done well, and I’m a fan of 1910 Revolucion Mexicana for the stylish decor as much as the food. And if you’re craving excellent creole or north Brazilian food, head to

And if you’re craving excellent creole or north Brazilian food, head to Bonuar, which is adjacent to the Modern Art Museum, and features live Blues during the week.

4. Hit Up A Salsa Bar

If you’re looking for things to do in Medellin at night, then you might want to visit one of the salsa bars. There is a five-block strip of salsa bars on La 33, or La 70, as well as a few clubs on the West side of the city.

A paisa favorite is the raucous Dulce Jesus Mio, which is decorated like a mock Antioquian pueblo. Workers dress up as caricatures of typical townspeople. Get there early (9 pm), and ensure you have at least one girl with you, to get a table.

If you actually want room to dance, then go to the upscale Cien Fuegos, which features the biggest dance floor in town.

When it comes to nightlife, Parque Lleras is the most accessible neighborhood. You can just walk around until you find a bar or discoteca (night club) that looks like fun.

Or, hop a cab to nearby Barrio Colombia and you’ll have a dozen different discotecas to choose from, all within a few square blocks. And you’ll see fewer foreigners than in Parque Lleras.

While the bars and discotecas around Parque Lleras are always busy on the weekends, there are many more places to party with locals than the Zona Rosa. A paisa favorite is the raucous

Be sure to take an Uber home if you stay out late and don’t wander the streets.

5. Take a Day Trip to Guatape

Guatape is a colorful pueblo a short 2.5 half-hour bus ride from Medellin. It’s situated on a lake and is just 15 minutes from El Penol, a monolith sticking out of the ground.

You can pay a few bucks to climb the stairs up the monolith. The view of the surrounding countryside from atop the rock is not to be missed.

You can visit Guatape and El Penol as a long day trip, but I recommend staying the weekend to relax like the locals.

6. Go Paragliding

If you prefer adrenaline-pumping activities, paragliding is a great adventurous activity in Medellin. Not only does it give you the thrill of flying, but it’s a great way to see the city from above.

If you’ve never been paragliding before, this is a great introduction, since flights go for as little as $45 per 25-minute flight.

7. Shop in Santa Fe

Santa Fe, located on Avenida Poblado, is the city’s largest shopping mall. The retractable roof allows fresh air and sunshine in on nice days.

The mall features movie theaters, a food court as well as some specialty restaurants like Sushi Light, and plenty of name-brand clothing stores.

8. Attend One Of The Festivals in Medellin

In early July, Medellin hosts Colombia’s annual salsa festival. The weekend event is a combination of salsa workshops, competitions, and at night, social dancing.

As the fashion capital of Colombia, Medellin hosts Colombiamoda (fashion week) every July as well. The 3-day event is open to the public during the day (a pass costs about $40), while the runway shows are invite-only.

La Feria de las Flores, the city’s annual flower parade, runs from the last week of July through the first week of August.

The weekends are busy with parades, including La Cabalgata horse parade, an antique car parade, and the flower parade. There are also lots of concerts and special events held during the 10-day celebrations.

9. Check Out Jardin Botanico (Botanical Gardens)

Visiting the Jardin Botanico in Medellin, Colombia is a must-do for anyone looking to explore Latin American culture and nature.

You can take in the lush beauty of the lush vegetation while learning about over 1,000 species of plants from all over the world.

There is also an impressive array of architectural gems, places to sit and relax, and artistic displays to enrich your experience.

The gardens also offer guided tours with their knowledgeable staff who can provide unique insights into local ecology and biodiversity.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or just need to breathe in some nature, the Jardin Botanico is one of the best free things to do in Medellin.

10. Take a Comuna 13 Tour

Comuna 13 has a notorious reputation as the once most dangerous neighborhood in Medellin, and it’s now one of the best places to visit in Medellin to see street art and is one of the city’s top attractions.

The streets are lined with graffiti, and to connect Comuna 13 with other neighborhoods, the city has built a series of open-air escalators to help bridge the divide between communities.

You’ll find that these escalators have also been decorated with colorful graffiti and murals, hoping to change the attitude towards this area and attract more people to visit it.

Of course, it’s still a little unsafe here, so we recommend going with a guided tour group for safety reasons.

11. Take One of the Pablo Escobar Tours

This is one of the biggest reasons why people visit Medellin, so we cannot skip past this top attraction in the city.

One top tourist attraction on the tour is Escobar’s former home, where he hid his family and where enemies tried to take him out with bombs.

Now, the site has been turned into a memorial park for the victims of the drug war.

You also visit “la cathedral”, the jail that Escobar built for himself in an agreement with the government, as well as the soccer field her built and where he gave speeches when trying to get into Colombian politics.

The final stop is the cemetery, where Escobar is buried next to family members and other gang members.

SIDE NOTE: You can see one of the sunken planes from Pablo Escabars drug running in the Exuma Islands on a swimming with pigs tour.

12. Check Out The Pueblito Paisa Model Village

The Pueblito Paisa Model Village was built to recreate the traditional style of architecture and living in the Antioquia region and offers a glimpse into how locals lived over 100 years ago.

Located atop Cerro Nutibara Hill, visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of downtown Medellin while exploring the cobblestone streets, rustic houses, and small shops that make up this unique attraction.

The Pueblito Paisa Model Village features several interesting attractions such as an old-fashioned market filled with souvenirs and regional artisanal crafts, a replica chapel made entirely out of wood, a theater where performances are held regularly, and several museums dedicated to preserving the legacy of local cultures.

For those looking for a truly unique experience in Medellin, visiting the Pueblito Paisa Model Village is a must.

13. Watch a Football Match at Atanasio Girardot Stadium

For those interested in soccer, be sure to check out one of the soccer stadiums in Medellin!

The Atanasio Girardot Stadium is home to the Atlético Nacional football team, one of only three clubs to have played in a first-division tournament.

If you happen to be in the city on game day, watching a soccer match will be a thrilling experience. There is no better atmosphere than in the stands of a match as the crowd sings and cheers on the players.

Top tip: Tickets go on sale to the public three days before each game, and you have to buy tickets from the stadium (window 2), which means you do need to plan ahead to get tickets.

14. See Works of Art at the Museo de Arte Moderno

The Museo de Arte Moderno is world-class with a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art from Colombian artists.

Visitors can explore a wide variety of pieces ranging from painting and sculpture to photographs and interactive works.

Within its world-class collection are pieces by Débora Arango, Manuel Hernández, Beatriz González, Olga de Amaral and Ana Mendieta to name a few.

The Museo de Arte Moderno is also a building of architectural interest. It looks like a concrete block from the outside, but the gallery spaces feel spacious and light, and accentuate each artwork’s beauty while providing a relaxing atmosphere for contemplation.

Top tip: try to arrange your trip on the last Friday of the month between 6pm and 10pm when the entrance is free.

15. Learn About Colombian History at Museo Casa de la Memoria

The Museo Casa de la Memoria is a must-see for travelers looking to learn about the history and culture of Colombia.

This museum provides visitors with a unique window into the struggles and triumphs of Colombia’s past. Through its interactive exhibits, detailed multimedia displays, and an impressive collection of artifacts, the Museo Casa de la Memoria brings to life some of the most important events in Colombian history.

Whether you want to learn about the history of slavery, civil wars, political violence, religious persecution, or Colombia’s indigenous cultures, there is much to learn and explore here.

16. Check Out The Parks

As well as being rich in culture and history, Medellin is also surrounded by natural beauty. Be sure to take some time exploring the parks and outdoor spaces.

Barefoot Park, otherwise known as Parque de los Pies Descalzos, is a large urban park with several spaces designed to allow you to walk barefoot. Whether you want to dip your aching feet in a refreshing pool or walk on the soft grass, there is something therapeutic about wandering around without your shoes on.

Parque Arvi is another great park to visit. It’s located at the end of the cablecar metro and is a great place for a hike. It has several trails which you can run, walk, or bike. You can also do some horseback riding here.

17. Learn About Space at Parque Explora

Parque Explora is one of the top things to do in Medellin with kids. It’s an interactive science museum and a freshwater aquarium, all wrapped up in one package.

It’s famous for its unique architecture, which resembles four large red blocks built in a wavey fashion.

In fact, it’s South America’s largest freshwater aquarium! It has over 4,000 fish and marine life, from 399 different species that are common to Colombia. In its 25 tanks, you can see everything from piranhas to electric eels.

The science museum contains more than 300 exhibits, plus a planetarium and 3D auditorium.

Best Time to Visit Medellin

Summer, or the dry season, runs from December through February, so these are some of the best months to visit.

Every December, Medellin and the surrounding cities like Envigado and Sabaneta, put up millions of Christmas lights and decorations.

The entire valley is transformed, fireworks are lit off every night, and chivas (party buses) take both the locals and tourists around to see the displays. It all makes for a very festive atmosphere.

But Medellin is not called the “City of Eternal Spring” for nothing, it’s known for its year-round good weather, so any time is a good time to visit.

Getting To And Around Medellin

Medellin is well connected to other cities within Colombia by bus and air, and an increasing number of international ones as well. I’m a fan of

I’m a fan of Aires, a discount airline which was recently acquired by LAN Airlines. You can get domestic tickets to major cities like Bogota, Cali, and Cartagena for as little as $75, thus saving you a 10 to the 12-hour bus ride.

If you’re long on time and short on money, stick to the buses. Overnight buses are fairly comfortable, with reclining seats, though you need to dress warmly because the driver always has the air-conditioning on high.

Medellin, and Colombia as a whole, is slowly opening up to more and more international flights between cities such as Quito, Lima, Panama City, and Havana.

When it comes to getting around Medellin, remember it’s a large city, so while you’ll be able to walk around within neighborhoods, you’ll need public transportation to get you around the city.

Medellin has a pretty good public transport system. Bus rides, which can be confusing at first, cost about 65 cents each, while a single ride on the metro will run you 85 cents.

It’s the only city in Colombia with a metro, but it’s very easy to use, clean, and generally safe (there’s security at every station and platform).

Taxis are metered, and you can go from one end of the city to the other for $6-7, but you can also use taxi apps such as Uber as well.

Is Medellin Safe?

I believe Medellin is no more dangerous than any other large, Latin American city. The stereotypes from the days when Pablo Escobar, narcoterrorists, and the FARC used to cause widespread and indiscriminate violence live on, yet anyone who visits the city will see it’s not so scary at all.

Make sure you stay in the well-populated areas and the touristy districts, and don’t go out alone at night. The touristy areas have a high police presence which usually puts petty criminals off.

The best areas to base yourself in for safety are El Poblado, Laureles, Envigado, and Sabaneta.

While Downtown Medellin is the busiest area for attractions, it’s also where a lot of pickpockets happen, so be mindful of your belongings when you’re sightseeing.

Common street crimes such as pickpockets and robberies continue to be a problem, but violent crime against tourists is rare. As long as you use your common sense and are street-wise, you should have a safe trip.

Where to Stay in Medellin

Most visitors stay in El Poblado, the upscale neighborhood in Medellin. And with good reason. It’s pretty, clean, and generally safer than other parts of town. Most of the hostels are centered around Parque Lleras, with bigger hotels situated along Avenida Poblado.

While most of the hostels are party hostels, I like to recommend Casa Kiwi where I stayed when I first arrived in the city. The Art Hotel is a nice place for those with a bigger budget.

Apartments are another good option with over 100 properties throughout the city. To find a room to rent, try CompartoApto, and to find an apartment, just do an internet search and you’ll find a bunch of agencies.

Try finding a place to stay through Couchsurfing, or by renting a short term apartment.

Don’t forget to get more tips in Dave’s travel guide to Medellin!

Popular Tours in Medellin

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Medellin

I love Medellin because I’ve gained so much as a person from living there. The paisas welcomed me with warmth and curiosity. The natural beauty inspired me every morning when I woke up.

The friendly (and good lookin’) women inspired me to learn Spanish. And the Latin music inspired me to learn how to dance.

There’s plenty to see and enjoy here, you won’t ever find yourself having a dull day. Hopefully this guide has given you some inspiration for what to do in Colombia and helped you map our your itinerary.

More Colombia Travel Tips

Are you planning on visiting other parts of Colombia? Then you may find the below resources useful!

• Why Colombia is best for a solo travel adventure
• 11 important things to know before traveling to Colombia
• Horseriding in Cueva del Esplendora, Colombia

But, as with any new place you visit, it’s important to adequately prepare yourself for the upcoming trip.

Travel to Colombia is very different from traveling to Paris. You have to consider things like vaccines, local currency, language barriers and safety – something you don’t really think about when visiting European cities.

Which is exactly why we bring you this guide on Colombia travel tips you should know before your trip.

It’s Colombia, Not Columbia

First thing’s first – before you visit this stunning country in South America, you need to know how it’s properly spelled. And it is Colombia, not Columbia.

Don’t feel bad if you thought it was the latter – it’s a very common mistake.

Colombians are Friendly

If you actually make the effort to learn just enough Spanish to be able to communicate with the locals, you can meet some really incredible people.

This is especially true for people who are guides for the free walking tours, which are very popular in larger Colombian cities.

They are almost always friendly locals, who are eager to introduce you to their cities, and tell you everything about it, including some personal stories.

Is Colombia Safe to Visit?

Even though the days of drug cartels and brutal violence are just a dark spot in Colombia’s history, it’s still far from being one of the safest countries in the world for tourists.

But staying safe in Colombia is not much different than staying safe in big European cities – just use your common sense, and you should be fine.

That means staying away from poor neighborhoods and not venturing far outside tourist centers.

Keep your valuables safe – don’t carry your smartphone and wallet in the back pocket of your jeans. Put them in your jacket or a money belt instead, especially when using public transport.

Don’t wear flashy jewelry, and try not to attract too much attention to yourself. Consider swapping your bulky DSLR for a smaller point and shoot camera or your phone in crowded areas, and carry your backpack kangaroo style (front of body).

Colombia is actually safer than most people think, especially since there is still a lot of police on the city streets. But it is still important to know what to expect, and to take all the necessary precautions to ensure you stay safe while you’re exploring the gorgeous country.

Not a Lot of People Speak English

The native language in Colombia is Spanish, and only about 4% of the population claims they can speak English well.

Which means that you may have a challenging time in the country if you don’t speak any Spanish at all.

So, try to learn at least some useful phrases before your trip. It’s not a difficult language, and the point isn’t to become proficient overnight – just to learn enough that you can communicate with people at restaurants, bars and shops.

This is as simple as taking the DuoLingo Spanish course or watching some TV shows in Spanish to pick up the key phrases.

Recommended Vaccines and Immunization

Keep in mind when planning a trip to Colombia that it has a tropical climate, which is an ideal setting for mosquito-borne diseases to flourish.

Which is why you should do all you can to protect yourself, and ensure you stay healthy throughout your trip.

If you’re only traveling to larger cities that are on a high elevation (above 2,200 meters), you don’t have to worry about mosquito-borne diseases.

But if you want to explore Colombia’s stunning countryside, seaside and the gorgeous national and nature parks, you should at least be vaccinated against yellow fever.

Other vaccines that are recommended for those traveling to Colombia are:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Tetanus
• Diphtheria
• Rabies
• Typhoid

None of these are mandatory for travelers from Europe and North America, but they are highly recommended.

But, if you’re travelling from one of the following countries, or even just had a layover there, you will be required to present yellow fever vaccination certificate:

• Brazil
• Uganda
• Angola
• Democratic Republic of Congo

Mosquitos are Everywhere (almost)

We’ve touched upon this in the previous section, but you need to be properly prepared for the amount of mosquito’s you will encounter when you visit Colombia.

The climate in the country is ideal for them, so the pesky insects really are hard to avoid in some locations.

That is not to say they are everywhere. For example, in the cities and higher lying areas like Salento (the coffee region) they are not a problem at all.

However, if you head to the jungles up north you will likely encounter them.

The best thing you can do to prepare yourself is get non-harmful mosquito repellent. Plus bracelets, candles, lotions, sprays and as many electrical repellents as you can fit in your suitcase.

You should also ask your doctor about anti malaria pills; it’s not something you can be vaccinated against, and it’s a serious issue in western and eastern parts of the country.

Additionally, it is best to wear long sleeve tops and long trousers, especially during and after dusk. If necessary, sleep under a mosquito net to avoid any bites during the night.

Credit Cards are Not Widely Accepted

If you were hoping to just swipe your credit card throughout Colombia, I’m going to disappoint you.

Cash is still king in the country, and you will need to have plenty on hand for restaurants, bars, cafes and even shops.

The major hotels, shops and fancy restaurants do accept cards, especially in larger cities like Bogota, Cartagena and Medellin. But you will need cash for everything else – bus tickets, taxi fares, souvenirs etc.

The currency in Colombian is Colombian Peso, and $1 equals to about 3,281.51 pesos.

And if you’re planning on withdrawing money, there is something you should know beforehand, like the variations in the withdrawal limits.

The withdrawal limit on ATM’s in Colombia depends heavily on the bank. It can be as low as 400,000 COP (Corpabanca), and it doesn’t get higher than 1,200,000 COP (Citibank).

In addition to that, some ATM’s will also charge you a fee, which ranges from $3.2 to $4.5.

Perhaps it’s best to look for a Colpatria bank ATM. They don’t charge a fee, and the withdrawal limit is 900,000 COP, which is about $270.

Of course, you should also consider the maximum daily withdrawal limit from your bank – if it’s $1,000, you can withdraw the maximum amount from an ATM about 3 times in total

Do Not Talk about Pablo Escobar

Most of us got hooked on Netflix’s Narcos show at some point, and were captivated by the world of drug lords in the 80s in Colombia.

However, while the TV show was incredibly interesting for the Western world, Colombians did not like it so much. Our tour guide in Medellin made a point of mentioning it.

Most locals feel that it is not an accurate representation of the troubled times, so definitely avoid mentioning anything about it.

Leave your Narcos t-shirts at home when visiting Colombia, and refrain from mentioning the Medellin or Cali cartels at all – especially if you’re visiting either one of those cities.

One of the main issues with the popular show was that it presented Colombia as a drug country, an image that it is trying hard to move away from.

So, be supportive of that, and don’t reference the dark past unless a friendly local starts talking about it first.

Tipping is Not Expected

In Colombia, it’s not expected to tip your waiter or taxi driver, but we recommend you do it anyway if you were happy with the service.

Even a small tip will be met with gratitude, especially because it’s not a common social custom.

In fancier restaurants in big cities, you will see a service fee on your bill. It’s usually 10% of your order, and that tip is later split equally among all the restaurant staff.

Buses and Taxis Will Get You Anywhere, But Planes Are Much Faster

Getting around Colombia is easy with buses and taxis. They go pretty much anywhere, and they are very inexpensive.

Especially with getting around bigger cities, getting to and from the airports and reaching those smaller places that are outside urban centers.

However, Colombian buses tend to be really slow, so we don’t recommend them if you have to cross hundreds of kilometers in one day.

If you’re trying to get from, let’s say Medellin to Santa Marta, it’s best to take a local flight. One-way tickets are super cheap (around $30 for this exact flight), and planes are a lot faster than the bus.

In this particular case, you can save about 13 hours if you opt to fly.

Be Patient

The concept of time in Colombia is different from that of the Western world. So, while it might be unimaginable that a train in Switzerland is 30-minutes late, in Colombia that would be quite normal.

That’s probably going to be the hardest thing to get used to.

Buses run late, so it’s normal to wait a while for your meal in a restaurant, and nobody is surprised if a flight gets delayed for several hours. At least one of our 10 flights in Colombia was late.

If you get caught in such a situation, try to not act like a Westerner. Don’t panic, and keep your cool – adapt to the situation and socialize with the locals.

Maybe grab a cerveza while you wait, if it helps you stay cool.

More South America tips

• 15 Umissable things to do in Rio De Janeiro
• 20 of the best places to visit in South America
• Would you visit South America with a baby?
• 4 awesome experiences in South America to rave about
• 5 Places to Visit in Bolivia, South America
• A 10 day itinerary of Peru
• Sandboarding in Peru
• 11 Things you need to know before visiting Colombia

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I felt comfortable going to many countries on my own and had traveled solo in the United States, Europe, Southeast Asia, and South America.

So, when the idea of Colombia travel hit my radar as a great destination for a solo trip, I didn’t hesitate to start planning.

Then the questions started coming and my friends and family expressed consistent concern.

“Is Colombia safe?” they asked.

“Of course”, I replied, feeling less and less confident each time I answered the same question about safety and security and got a blank stare in response. After all, who hasn’t seen Narcos on Netflix?

I was told by other travelers who had been there that Colombia is not the place it once was in the 1980s and 1990s.

Online research showed me the same results: Colombia is a developing country that is generally safe for tourism (if you avoid certain areas in the country). Even the U.S. State Departments travel advisory agreed.

But, how far has it truly come since those dark days?

With a growing sense of concern, I booked my trip to visit Colombia knowing that I’d find out the answer to this very question. And hoping that I would like the answer.

Is it Safe to Travel to Colombia?

Visiting Colombia was one of the most amazing trips I have ever taken. Traveling to a developing country may not be for everyone, but I still look back at my pictures and pinch myself thinking how lucky I am that I went.

And how grateful I am that I didn’t decide to go somewhere else due to the concerns my friends and family expressed.

Now when people ask me, “is Colombia safe to travel?” I’m happy to respond with a resounding “Yes!”

That is not to say that you don’t need to be careful when you visit Colombia. It doesn’t mean that bad things don’t sometimes happen, and there are important things to know before visiting Colombia. 

However, I found traveling in Colombia South America as safe as travel in any other developing country that I have visited.

Yes, there are challenges, and places you do not want to go. And there are issues throughout many countries in Latin America.

But, if you are smart about where you go and how you do it, this is one of the great countries to visit in South America.

It is also a great place to travel solo for those with some experience traveling solo. When you travel on your own, you get to see a slice of life you may not when you travel with someone else.

The Fallacy of Safety in Groups

Most people believe we are more at risk when we are traveling alone and I partially agree with that.

We are certainly more approachable when we are traveling on our own and that could make us more of a target.

However, when we travel solo we aren’t distracted by talking with a friend. We don’t have a false sense of security that having another person with us makes us safe.

In fact, when we traveling solo, it’s likely that we are more aware of our surroundings.

In that way, I think we are at less risk while traveling solo than when we travel with others.

Colombia Travel for the Solo Explorer

When I started planning a trip to Colombia, I did a lot of research about safety and security concerns.

Though I felt fairly confident I could safely travel to Colombia, the concerns expressed by those who care about me weighed heavily on my mind.

When they asked me, “Is it safe to travel to Colombia?” I wanted to be absolutely sure of the answer.

The safety cautions I read online were mostly similar to what you see about traveling in Europe: be careful of pickpockets.

My friends and family were so concerned I would be robbed at gunpoint, killed, kidnapped or another violent crime. However, I didn’t read many warnings about those kinds of crimes in the areas I planned to visit.

That is the perception of Colombia, and it’s time to challenge that outdated view.

It’s important for solo travelers to do some homework before traveling and particularly for solo female travelers.

Below is what I learned about Colombia travel before I left and while I was there.

Don’t Zone on Your Phone in Bogotá

One of my top Colombia tips is that safety starts before your Colombia vacation. 

It’s important before you travel anywhere to do some research on safety concerns. You’ll want to gather specifics about the country in general, and also about the areas you plan to visit.

A lot of people post warnings online about the risk of getting your cell phone stolen in Bogotá. This was a significant problem for me: I have absolutely no sense of direction so I rely on my phone for navigation.

In the old days, I would carry a map, but nothing screams “tourist!” like carrying a map around. Well, that and wearing white sneakers.

What did I do?

I used my phone very sparingly, and only when I had clear sight around me that it was safe to do so. I made sure my back was against a wall and no one was close to me.

When I used my phone, I made sure to look up to assess my surroundings to be sure it was still safe to have my phone out. If people approached me, I put it away.

I’m happy to say my phone joined me for the flight home from Colombia.

Get Insight from Locals in Medellín

Another great way to learn about safety is by talking with locals.

When you ask where they recommend you go, also ask if there are places where you should not go.

We often focus on the places we want to visit when we travel, but knowing where not to go is just as important.

Medellín is one of the best places to visit in Colombia and there is a lot to do there. You do need to be careful in certain neighborhoods.

Avoid the El Centro Neighborhood at Night

Walking tours are a great way to orient yourself to a new city. I took a walking tour in Medellín and our guide, Juan, gave us some invaluable advice.

He said that we should not go to the downtown area, La Candelaria (locally known as El Centro), at night and to be very careful during the day as well.

The El Centro neighborhood is the area where many of the attractions are in Medellín, and it’s very popular.

By day, it is filled with businesspeople and it’s reasonably safe, though there are pickpockets around.

It’s a good idea to maintain awareness around you at all times and to be sure to have a firm grasp on your belongings. If you are wearing a bag, wear it across your chest or on your chest (for backpacks).

However, after the commuters go home, the downtown area is unsafe and even the locals steer clear of it.

Juan shared the Colombian saying, “dar papaya,” which loosely translated means “you should not put yourself in a position where people can easily take advantage of you.”

So, if an area is the highest risk like El Centro, or “four papayas,” it’s best to avoid.

Beware in San Antonio Square

San Antonio Square (Parque San Antonio) has some beautiful murals that stand out in a city known for its creative street art.

Also, there are two bird sculptures on display created by local artist Fernando Botero. One is intact and the other was mostly destroyed in 1995 by a guerrilla bomb. It serves as a painful reminder of the violent history of Medellín.

Our guide cautioned us to be wary of gang activity in San Antonio Square even during the day and to avoid the park at night.

It’s best to only visit in groups (like a walking tour group) and to be especially cautious of pickpockets.

Visiting Communa 13

Communa 13 is a great example of a neighborhood that was once the poorest and most violent in Medellín. It is now a place that most tourists visit known for its amazing street art.

I took a walking tour of this area with a local guide who grew up there named Sergio. He told us stories from his childhood that were painful to listen to and shared how the community is remembering its history through art.

Sergio shared a wall of small planters painted with names on them symbolizing the life of the people who disappeared in the 1980s and 1990s.

The Colombian people are very aware of their history. They strive to move past it and to move forward in a positive direction so they can continue to be proud of their country and how far it has come.

When people ask, “is it safe to travel to Colombia,” locals will say a resounding, “yes!” because they are proud to be Colombian and of what their beautiful country is today.

Caution When Using Crosswalks

Another Colombia safety tip I learned from Juan is that “crosswalks are art” in Medellín.

Meaning that drivers don’t often yield the right of way to a pedestrian so be very careful when crossing the street.

I learned this the hard way the next day when I found myself in the middle of the street as a car approached and had to dash for the curb as he went racing past me.

It sure got my heart racing and was a good reminder to be careful.

Right after that incident, a moped rode up on the sidewalk and nearly plowed me down, so caution should also extend to walking on the sidewalk as well.

Keep Your Eyes Open in Cartagena

When you’re traveling, you never know where you might end up.

If you’re like me, you plan for a few things every day but leave time to explore if you see something interesting.

Don’t make yourself a target by clearly not paying attention. Or conversely, it’s not a good idea to appear fearful by frantically looking around. Simply take a look around as you walk.

I liken this to driving a car. When we’re driving around, we’re constantly scanning our surroundings to make sure there is nothing in our path so we know it’s safe to continue driving.

At first, this takes some practice. But in time, we can do it without even thinking about it. As you build your solo-traveling muscle, you will find the same.

Old Town Cartagena and Getsemani

The most popular tourist destinations in Cartagena are the old town area and the Getsemani neighborhood.

Old-town Cartagena is the area within the old city walls and it’s stunning to walk around. There are a lot of tourists in this area and it can get very crowded.

Travel to Cartagena Colombia is generally safe. However, whenever you’re in a crowded area, it’s a good idea to be on the lookout for pickpockets and to hold onto your belongings.

Don’t make yourself an easy target for someone to snatch and grab your bag because you aren’t paying attention. Make sure your bag is zipped and you have a hand on it.

Also, it’s a good idea to not be glued to your phone when you’re walking around. If you have your head down and you’re focused on your screen, you are not paying attention to what is going on around you.

That’s not to say you can’t check your phone or use it for navigation, but you should limit your screen time and employ some of the cautions mentioned above.

I met a man in Cartagena who bought something and put the bag down on the sidewalk while on his phone. When he bent down to grab his bag, it was gone.

Being distracted makes you easy prey for an opportunist.

Traveling Solo Doesn’t Mean Always Being Alone

Just because you aren’t traveling with someone doesn’t mean you are always going to be alone.

A great aspect about traveling solo is that you are more approachable to people. It’s nice to make a personal connection with someone, especially a local.

The people of Colombia are generally very friendly and love tourists.

Since the country isn’t heavily touristed in many areas, people are very curious about travelers and want to say hello.

Make New Friends in Salento

It’s a good idea to not go to remote areas on your own.

I visited Salento, nestled in the mountains in the Coffee Triangle (Eje Cafetero) to hike in Cocora Valley.

It’s an amazingly beautiful hike that starts in the cloud forest (high-elevation rainforest) and ends in an area surrounded by wax palm trees.

They are the tallest palms in the world and have a kind of cartoonish quality as they grow as high as 200 feet (60 meters).

I got lucky and met a great group of people at the hostel I stayed at and we hiked Cocora together. There were lots of hikers and had I not met anyone before starting the hike, I could have easily met others.

As we began the hike, two young women from Argentina asked if they could join us and of course we said yes.

Though in the city I believe solo travelers are as safe, and often safer than people who travel with others, in remote areas I believe traveling in groups is best.

Why You Shouldn’t Uber in Colombia

As a solo female traveler, I do try to limit walking around at night and tend to take a cab or an Uber when I go out.

Uber is technically illegal in Colombia (“technically” because you can find Uber drivers in some of the major cities, like Cartagena, however, you may be harassed by taxi drivers or the police if they are caught).

I prefer Uber over a taxi for a few reasons.

First, because no money changes hands during the ride. I don’t have to figure out how much a ride fare is or think about if the driver turned the meter on.

I can also be reasonably sure a driver is legit. Uber tells me the driver’s name, shares a picture, and the vehicle make and license plate.

However, it’s helpful to know that Uber isn’t legal in Colombia, even though you will find some industrious people still driving with them.

I had no idea when I went there and learned from a local I met while in Cartagena after taking Uber from the airport to my apartment.

Other Colombia Safety Tips

There are many other solo travel safety tips that are helpful anywhere else in the world.

These Colombia travel tips are especially useful whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with others.

Be Careful with Alcohol

It’s important to be especially careful when you’re drinking.

You want to be sure you are aware of your surroundings and paying attention, and you simply aren’t as focused when you are drinking alcohol.

That’s not to say you can’t have a drink with dinner, but it’s just not a good idea to drink a lot when you’re traveling solo.

You don’t always make great decisions.

While you’re in the restaurant or bar, be sure to keep an eye on your drink at all times.

Especially when you’re traveling solo and don’t have someone else looking out for you, it’s a really bad time to learn what it’s like to get a “mickey” in your drink.

Keep an Eye or a Hand on Your Belongings

Pickpocketing is a risk for Colombia travel. Don’t make yourself an opportunity for a crime of chance by not keeping your belongings close to you.

Using a cross-body messenger bag is a smart idea to keep your belongings safe and to keep your hand on the bag.

If you carry a backpack, either carry it on the front or make sure you add a lock to it as it’s easy to grab something out of one when on your back.

Carry a minimum of cash in your bag. Though, keep in mind that Colombia is a cash-based society so credit cards aren’t frequently used.

Another suggestion is to use a money belt to make sure you have access to more cash. There are money belts that fasten around your waist, your neck, or even your bra.

There are also creative ones with a zippered pocket inside a belt or a scarf.

Be especially careful when you pull out money. We often leave our bag open and are not paying attention to it while we are making a purchase.

It’s an easy time for someone to help themselves to the content of your bag.

Why a Trip to Colombia is Best as a Solo Adventure

Colombia is a place you want to take the time to really get to know.

It’s important to be knowledgeable of the country’s history to fall in love with the place it is today. The best way to do that is by getting to know the locals.

Traveling solo affords you the best opportunity to meet Colombians to learn who they really are. They aren’t their shadowed past but people who work hard and are proud to be Colombian.

Visiting Colombia solo means you will be more open to the message of the people to learn their true story.

The people are tired of the violence and corruption and want change. The people who are optimistic for a more positive future. That’s the Colombia I fell in love with.

Now when people ask me, “Is Colombia safe?” I’m happy to give them a big smile and share my amazing adventures from this trip and my plans for my next one.

I hope this Colombia travel guide offered some useful Colombia travel safety tips to keep you informed and make your Colombia vacation as stress free and memorable as possible. 

Tours of Colombia

Still unsure about traveling solo to Colombia? G Adventures offers a range of small group Colombia tours ranging from 8 days – 21 days.

They have a star rating of 4.7/5 with over 300+ reviews. Check them out here. 

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As I turned to hide from the light, I noticed an unfamiliar pain between my legs and a tightness in my stomach muscle. Groaning, I pushed myself up on my elbow and remembered where these pains came from.

Gosh, we’re definitely too old for this.

Yesterday, a 6 hour horse ride to an underground waterfall, called Cueva del Esplendora, sounded like a perfect way to spend the day.

Sounds so perfect that when our guide suggested an option to do the first half of it in a jeep, we scoffed at the idea. Absolutely not! Horses all the way.

And until this morning we never regretted the decision.

The ride up to the waterfall was beautiful and quite possible the highlight of the trip itself – the trail climbed up above Jardín, a pueblo 4 hour south from Medellin, Colombia providing us with a bird’s eye view of the city.

Jardín is located in a valley which is surrounded by low lying mountains dotted with coffee and banana plantations.

Lush mountains, valleys, and forests surrounded us. It was as if we’d donned glassed painted with green.

The trail was steep, rocky and muddy and at any second we expected our horses to slip and stumble. Slip and stumble they did, but somehow we managed to hang on.

We went up, higher and higher traversing along the side of a mountain. Soon we couldn’t see the pueblo anymore. Coffee and banana plantations were replaced by rolling grazing farmlands dotted with occasional farmhouses.

We finally realized this is why people raved so much about Colombia. This was the landscape that we came to see.

It seems that every turn brought us to even a better view.

After a 3 hour of mostly uphill ride, we got off the horses and followed our guide on foot. We went down into a slippery ditch covered with trees and we could already hear the thunderous sound of water before we could see it.

Cueva del Esplendora is a cave, but not just an ordinary cave.

The powerful impact of a waterfall above it has carved a hole on its ceiling through which the waterfall is now streaming through. The water rushes in with such force that the whole cave was filled with tiny water sprays.

The deafening sound of the waterfall echoed around the chamber. The light streaming in from the hole reflected off the water giving the scene an almost surreal experience.

I think the picture would speak for itself.

We quickly got drenched from all the water sprays and it was cold in the cave. So after taking pictures, our guide signaled (it was so loud we couldn’t hear each other) that it was time to head back.

The ride back was slightly worse because our horses were stumbling and sliding even worse than before.

There were times when we were tempted to get off the horses and walk instead. So scared were we of tumbling over and having the horses land on us. Maybe having 4 legs are not necessarily better, eh?

So here we are in the morning after and as I was massaging the tender area on my inner thigh, I heard Jack mutter beside me,

“We’re never going to have kids because of that horse ride, you know?”

Would we recommend a trip to the Cueva del Esplendor then?

Absolutely, but unless you’re an experienced horse rider, or have groins made of steel, we recommend that you take the jeep.

Popular Colombia Tours

Accommodation in Colombia

• Choose from a variety of Colombia accommodation types on Booking.com – hotels, apartments, and hostels, even holiday homes. With Booking.com you get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee.

• Airbnb Rentals in Colombia

Flights to Colombia

• Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees).
• Scott’s Cheap Flights is an awesome resource for finding great flight deals

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Not having travel insurance on a trip is not worth the risk. Travel insurance is designed to cover unexpected medical emergencies and events such as trip cancellation, your personal effects, lost, stolen or damaged luggage by an airline, and other related losses incurred while traveling.

More posts about Columbia

• 11 Things you need to know before visiting Colombia
• 16 Travel Tips for Medellin, Colombia
• Why Colombia is best for a solo adventure (tips for staying safe)
• 20 of the Best Places to visit in South America

Bio:Jack and Jill left their job to travel and are currently working as volunteers in South America. Follow their (mis)adventures around the world on their blog: Jack and Jill Travel The World.

Have you experienced horse riding in beautiful areas like this before? Share your experiences in the comments section below