Is Medellín Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Medellin, Colombia is considerably safer than it was several years ago, with improvements in security and a keen interest in tourism. That said, as with any big city, it is important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings; avoid deserted areas especially at night. Local people are generally friendly and are happy to provide assistance if needed. Particular caution should be taken when using public transportation and in less touristy areas, where the risk of pickpocketing and petty theft can be higher.

Safety rating

4.1 /5

Based on 23 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.2 /5

Based on 10 experiences from local women

Medellín is currently ranked #2 safest place in Colombia for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.1 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Medellín?

Safety at night:Unsafe

While Medellín has made substantial improvements over the years in terms of safety, it is still advisable to exercise caution, especially during the nighttime. Walking alone at night is not recommended in certain areas, due to localized crime. As a solo female traveler, utilize reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps when moving around the city after dark. Stay in well-lit areas and avoid isolated places. Always trust your instincts and remain aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation consists of the Metro system, MetroCable, buses, trams, and taxis in Medellín. It's relatively safe, especially during the day. However, like in any big city, you should stay vigilant, keep your belongings close to you, and avoid travelling late at night to mitigate potential risks. The Metro and MetroCable are particularly safer and reliable, and they connect various parts of the city. If you opt for taxis, it's better to call for a licensed cab rather than hailing one on the street.

Street harassment:Moderate

While Medellín is generally considered a welcoming and friendly city, street harassment can occasionally occur. Women, particularly solo female travelers may experience catcalling or unwanted attention when walking alone, especially in less touristy areas or after dark. However, most locals are respectful and it's worth noting this does not reflect the attitude of everyone in the city. As a solo female traveler, it's always important to stay alert, aware of your surroundings and dress modestly.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Medellin, Colombia, has undergone significant improvements in terms of safety and crime rates in recent years. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and minor scams occur quite regularly, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Therefore, while traveling, it's advisable to take precautions like not displaying valuables openly and being watchful of belongings, especially in busy areas.

Is Medellín worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 23 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.1/5

Food

4.5/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5

Family travel

Had a beautiful time in Medellin! Mind you if you’re coming from the states, $1 is about $4000 colombian pesos so money does go far! Stayed in a Marriott hotel in Sabaneta. So many different things to do, enjoyed my special bonding time with my little family. Definitely recommend!

Posted: September 30, 2024Experienced: August, 2024

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Offir

United States

Solo travel

Medellin was absolutely beautiful! From the people, to the food, to all of the incredible and inexpensive experiences you can have. I stayed for 6 days at an airbnb in Poblado. Beautiful condo near everything and I walked everywhere. Including the Metro station which is safe and super organized. My biggest advice is to leave your jewelry and expensive stuff at home. Be humble, respectful, polite, and tip every service worker who takes care of you 2000-5000 COP is the norm. Place I would recommend would be the Peñón, Poblado, take the metro and just explore! Food? Please try the typical dish “bandeja paisa” absolutely delicious! And every kind of pastry you can try

Posted: June 26, 2024

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Olivia

United States

Solo travel

I had a wonderful time in this city! I did the free City Tour which helped introduce me to a couple of people and we all had dinner together that night. I walked around a ton on my own and felt very safe. The food and people were all absolutely wonderful

Posted: June 5, 2024Experienced: February, 2023

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Solo travel

I was a bit nervous traveling to Medellin by myself after reading about the safety issues. I have to say that I stayed for a month and didn’t have any issues but I was very careful and listened to the advice I received. I’m a big walker and I did feel frustrated that I couldn’t really walk around at night even in the safe neighborhoods. That was my biggest pet peeve. The other was the food is not great, especially for vegans. But other than that I think it’s a great city. I would definitely go back but probably not alone.

Posted: May 29, 2024

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Chrissy

United States

Solo travel

I go to Colombia every year and fall in love with the country every time. Colombia is literally my second home away from home where I live. I feel super safe in Colombia, the people are very sweet and welcoming, food is amazing, and definitely cheap. This was my second year and it was nice to explore and come back as a solo traveler. Lots of beautiful things to see and do and great to book through the airbnb app for things to do. You can also Uber around and take a taxi which is also cheap. I can’t wait to go back again!

Posted: January 21, 2024

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Solo travel

I loved Medellín. I stayed within walking distance from the metro station in El Poblado, which was nice. It's not the most interesting neighborhood, but I could take a solitary walk in the evenings. The downtown was fine during the day (lots to see), but I was advised to leave when the office workers started heading home. Guatapé is worth one or two days. The graffiti tour was great, and I loved taking the cable car to Parque Arvi. Language was not a problem, Uber was great for shorter distances (to the bus station etc.) and people were very friendly.

Posted: December 2, 2023

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Is Medellín safe for women?

Safety index

3.2 /5

Based on 10 local experiences

Crime index

2.7 /5

Based on 10 local experiences

rossanny

All depends about the place you are. But I live in bello with my son and it’s very safe. Well, I don’t go out at night to much, but I haven’t been robe, or anything bad in almost 8 years living here.

Posted: April 11, 2025

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It is a city with incredible people, you can walk around calmly, people help you with everything when you ask. They really like to welcome foreigners, it is a city that generally captivates you with its warmth.

Posted: January 22, 2025

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