Women travellers
Colombia for women travellers
The FCDO's main concern in Colombia is drugging, often with scopolamine in drinks or cigarettes, and sometimes after meeting through a dating app. Victims are then robbed or assaulted. The main tourist cities have no regional warnings.
- No specific FCDO warning
- Warnings of assault or harassment
- Extra care
- Restrictive laws or dress codes
Colombia has become a big solo destination, with hostels full of women doing the classic Bogotá to Cartagena route. Catcalling is common. The serious risk, though, is the drugging and robbery scam, which targets both men and women.
Where it feels different
- Medellín: El Poblado & LaurelesWarnings of assault or harassment
Lively nightlife, and the hotspot for dating-app setups.
- Cartagena old townWarnings of assault or harassment
Expect touts and street sellers. Busy at night.
- Salento & the Coffee RegionNo specific FCDO warning
Relaxed and popular with solo hikers.
Getting around safely
- Use ride apps rather than hailing taxis on the street, especially at night.
- Take daytime buses for long journeys.
- Keep your phone out of sight in busy streets.
- Share your plans with someone at your hostel or at home.
Dating apps
Meet in busy, public places and tell a friend where you're going. Don't go back to someone's flat on a first meeting, and arrange your own transport. The FCDO has warned about criminals using dating apps to lure people into robberies.
Before you go
- Never leave a drink unattended, and don't accept cigarettes or flyers from strangers.
- Meet dates in busy public places.
- Emergency: 123.
Official advice: FCDO travel advice for Colombia
Stay and do
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