Is Colombia safe to visit?
Yes. For the Vamos Colombia guest we have investigated and personally visited all of the places we go, we keep abreast of the current situation in Colombia, accompany our guests throughout the country, and visit only those places we would feel confident sending our own family and friends. Therefore, on our tours, the worst risk, as they say, may be in not wanting to leave.

What about the guerillas and the drug cartels?
As in all places, there are parts of Colombia that are risky, and these parts are avoided. However, with a little knowledge and using the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, a visitor can enjoy a safe trip without problems.

What areas are safe to visit?
Vamos Colombia believes the following areas are currently safe to visit (listed by department):
1.Bogota, D.C.
2.Cundinamarca: north, west and south of Bogota, including Zipaquira, Melgar, and Girardot
3.Boyaca and Santander: the central areas, including Villa de Leyva, through Bucaramunga, Barichara and San Gil.
4.Bolivar, Atlantico, Magdalena: the Caribbean costal parts of these departments, including Cartagena (and Rosario Islands), Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Taganga, and Tayrona Park, but not the mountainous areas or the interior of those departments
5.La Guajira: the coastal areas to Riohacha
6.Antioquia: Medellin and the surrounding cities, including Santa Fe De Antioquia, but not the mountainous areas
7.Qundio, Risaralda, Caldas: The coffee growing region (Zona Cafetera), except for the remote and sparsely populated mountain areas
8.San Andres, Providencia: all areas
9.Amazonas: Leticia area only

Of course one must take the usual precautions regarding personal safety even in these regions, including avoiding remote areas, especially at night, not wearing flashy clothes or jewelry, and being aware of conditions in your immediate surroundings at all times. These basic precautions are discussed in the travel tips section.

Vamos Colombia re-confirms local conditions before visiting, and recommends that those traveling on their own do so as well.

What other concerns might I have in Colombia?
Other concerns can be eliminated or addressed with just a little planning ahead.

Some areas of Colombia exhibit high levels of poverty. While they may not be dangerous, we recommend exercising caution with regard to displays of wealth. In particular, we recommend against display of jewelry, expensive cameras or flashy clothes.

Volcanos have been known to be active in the southern Andes within Colombia, although Vamos Colombia does not visit those areas at this time, and recommends against it.

Insects are prevalent in wet areas such as Tayrona Park, the Santa Marta area and other coastal areas.  Use of repellent is recommended. Vaccinations are not required, but are recommended (for Hepatitis, Yellow Fever and Typhoid)

Most forms of public transportation should be avoided – except for the Transmillenio in Bogota and the metro in Medellin. Buses and busetas can be dangerous.  Taxis obtained either at an official taxi stand or through a phone call ahead (or at hotel) are safe and efficient, but otherwise taxis on the street should not be used to avoid robbery.

Those enjoying the urban nightlife should be careful to avoid being taken advantage by taking the neccessary precautions and using common sense.  In many cities prostitution is common as well, which is not illegal but can be dangerous.  Vamos Colombia endeavors to provide chaperones for those guests wishing to go out for a fun but safe time.  

Altitude sickness can affect those visiting Bogota at 8,000 feet in elevation, especially the first few days. Therefore, exercise care when visiting higher elevations such as Monserrate (at 9,000 feet).

Do I need a visa for Colombia?
Americans and most Europeans do not need a visa for Colombia. Upon entering the country as a tourist, you can stay for a maximum of 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months before departure to Colombia.  

Do I have to carry my passport at all times in Colombia?
In our experience, carrying a copy of one’s foreign passport (for non-Colombians) is sufficient (with an explanation that the original is safely stored at the hotel).