Is Colombia safe for solo female travellers?

Colombia is generally safe for solo female travellers. While it is important to take the same precautions as you would in any other country, Colombia is generally considered to be a safe destination for solo female travellers. The country has a low crime rate and the people are friendly and welcoming. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take the necessary safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Safety reviews from Colombia

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 15 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.9/5

Safety

4.7/5

Food

4.9/5

Budget-friendly

4.6/5

Solo travel experience

Colombia is super safe. Easily one of my favorite countries I’ve ever visited. I’ve been there for a month: carrying a camera, phone, etc, walking around at night. I’m blonde and a don’t speak a whole lot of Spanish. I’ve never had any trouble or felt uncomfortable at all.

Posted: May 26, 2023
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I started in Bogota but flew straight to San Andres to have a beach holiday. Then I flew back to Bogota and took a bus to Neiva to visit the desert. From there I took a bus to Cali, then a bus to the coffee zone. Bus to Medellin. Flight to Cartagena. Bus to Santa Marta and finally flight to Bogota where I spent my last days before flying back to Europe. I was there for around 6 weeks.

Posted: May 23, 2023
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I found solo travelling around Colombia as a woman relatively easy/unstressful, but I do speak at least passable Spanish which I think helped. I also found people generally incredibly helpful, and only Cartagena and Salento (i.e. the most touristy places) seemed to have anyone trying to rip off.

Posted: April 30, 2023
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Safety tips for solo female travellers in Colombia

Colombia can be a safe destination for solo female travelers, but it's important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips for solo female travelers in Colombia:

Stay in well-lit and populated areas

It is important to stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night, to reduce the risk of becoming a target for crime.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Carrying large amounts of cash can make you a target for criminals. It is best to use a credit or debit card when possible.

Be aware of your surroundings

Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of people who may be following you.

Don’t wear flashy jewelry

Wearing flashy jewelry can make you a target for criminals.

Don’t accept rides from strangers

Never accept rides from strangers, as this can be dangerous.

Don’t leave your drink unattended

Leaving your drink unattended can make you vulnerable to being drugged.

Don’t walk alone at night

Walking alone at night can be dangerous, so it is best to travel with a group or take a taxi.

Don’t flash expensive items

Flashing expensive items such as cameras or phones can make you a target for criminals.

Don’t trust people easily

Be wary of people who may be trying to scam you or take advantage of you.

Research the area before you go

Research the area you are visiting before you go to be aware of any potential dangers.

Useful phrases for your trip to Colombia

If you are planning a solo trip to Colombia, learning some basic phrases can be very helpful. Here are some useful phrases to know:

  1. ¡Bienvenido a Colombia! (Welcome to Colombia!)
  2. ¿Cómo puedo ayudarte? (How can I help you?)
  3. ¿Qué te gustaría ver? (What would you like to see?)
  4. ¿Dónde está el mejor lugar para comer? (Where is the best place to eat?)
  5. ¿Qué hay de interesante por aquí? (What's interesting around here?)
  6. ¿Cuáles son los mejores sitios para visitar? (What are the best places to visit?)
  7. ¿Cuáles son los mejores lugares para comprar? (What are the best places to shop?)
  8. ¿Cuáles son los mejores lugares para divertirse? (What are the best places to have fun?)
  9. ¿Cuáles son los mejores lugares para hospedarse? (What are the best places to stay?)
  10. ¿Cuáles son los mejores lugares para hacer turismo? (What are the best places to go sightseeing?)

Safety discussions

Ask locals about safety in Colombia

Mariel

Mariel

I m a senior lady i travel to AMÉRICA I LVE TO KNOW PEOPLE AND TO SHARE EXPERIENCES ABOUT
Jessica

Jessica

Hi! I am a scientist from America and I love seeing new cities.
Andrea

Andrea

I’m really passionate about pets and marketing. I want to get fluent in english to boost my career. I really enjoy traveling and knowing people around the world.

Stay safe with trusted locals in Colombia

Alejandra

Alejandra

Can host for 3 days

Hello! I’m Alejandra Abella. I love theater and music. Currently, I am learning programming. I love animals, I have 5 animals at home. My favorite food is sushi. I love talking with a lot of people. I practice swimming. I work as a ICT teacher. Usually I’m really full with all activities. I love with my parents and brother. I would be pleasure to be in touch with you.
Sara

Sara

Can host for 3 days

hello my name is Sara, I am a medical student and I love traveling and learning about new cultures Now I'm getting to know the European Union
Monica

Monica

Can host for 7 days

Hello! I’m Monica. I live in Medellin, Colombia, a great spot for digital nomads or people who love travelling. I travel a lot to the UK since my fiancé is from England. I love cooking, dancing and learning languages.

Upcoming visitors to Colombia

Yogini_C

Yogini_C

I am French yoga teacher. I have lived 3 years in Asia (backs packing and being a full time yoga instructor in Laos). I love backpacking and meeting fellow sisters in countries around the world. I love that there is an app to empower women now amen help them travel safely !
Nk

Nk

Hey!, My name is Nk and I'm interested in animals, art, books, boozing, culture, dancing, events & social, food & cuisine, games, health, languages, live music, sightseeing, solo travel, sunbathing and swimming
Agus

Agus

I live in Buenos Aires, Argentina I love travel, music, beach, sea, nature, summer, bike

Frequently asked questions

Is Colombia safe to visit?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe to visit. The country has made great strides in recent years to improve security and reduce crime. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to research the areas you plan to visit and take the necessary safety precautions.

Is Colombia safe for LGBTQ?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe for LGBTQ people. In 2016, Colombia became the first country in South America to recognize same-sex marriage. In addition, the country has a number of laws that protect the rights of LGBTQ people, including the right to change one's gender on official documents. However, there are still reports of discrimination and violence against LGBTQ people in Colombia, so it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Is Colombia safe at night?

The safety of Colombia at night depends on the area you are in. Generally, it is best to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and take extra precautions when travelling in unfamiliar areas.

Is Colombia safe for women?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe for women. However, as with any country, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night, and to dress modestly. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs.

Is Colombia safe to travel alone?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe to travel alone. However, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to research the areas you plan to visit and take the necessary safety precautions.

Safe travel in Colombia