is medellin safe to travel

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Home » South America » Medellin

Is Medellin Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Medellin, once one of the most dangerous cities in the world, is finally showing the world how you are more than your terrible past. After suffering with drug gangs and violent crime of the worst demeanour for so long, the cartel days are finally behind the city of eternal spring.

Medellin is really special. It’s not just changed its violent past; it’s actively embraced all its ugly parts to make something beautiful. So today, staying safe in Medellin is pretty damn easy.

But like every big city , and especially in Latin America, it’s no stranger to having its own safety problems. So, is Medellin safe for tourists these days?

Well, petty theft, traffic, and scams are all still a concern. And although it’s not something that should bother you as a tourist, of course, gangs will never be eradicated completely.

Of course, ‘narco-tourism’ is in play. And actually, you can see it and contribute towards Medellin’s ever-growing, healthy economy.

Whether you’re a solo female traveller or bringing your family, it is safe in Medellin. But we need to get the safety tips straight. Here’s your guide to staying safe in Medellin.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Medellin Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Medellin.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

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Is it Safe to Visit Medellin Right Now?

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Yes! Medellin is safe to travel to. The city had a recorded 1,400,000 international visitors last 2022. Most of them had a relatively safe experience.

The second largest city in Colombia , visiting Medellin is definitely something I’d highly recommend to all sorts of travellers. Compared to its reputation in the 1980s, when it had one of the highest homicide rates in the world , Medellin is markedly safer these days. 

But you have to be careful while travelling. Street crime still exists, traffic is rather chaotic, and, although violent crime is increasingly uncommon, it’s no stranger to petty crime. 

Oh and then there are the earthquakes (which you’ll experience everywhere while backpacking Colombia ), and the flooding in the rainy season. Both can be pretty bad. Knowing what to do in a disaster situation makes Medellin one of the safest cities in South America.

Just like the safety in Colombia overall, Medellin’s has become a whole new person. In 1993, when Pablo Escobar was out of the picture, safety concerns started to turn around. Crime has pretty much plummeted in general and, in fact, Medellin is safer than many other cities in Latin America.

Alongside Medellin’s drug renaissance in the 80s/90s, there was also a Communist insurgency happening. And while FARC stopped being an armed group in 2017, not everyone on that side was happy. Dissidents are still active.

Gangs still operate in the city. Though there’s absolutely no reason for these to affect you as gang violence is typically inter-gang.

And let’s talk again about those earthquakes…

They’ve been INCREASING over the past few years. Usually, they’re barely a wobble, but researchers are worried that Medellin isn’t sufficiently prepared for a big one. Make sure you know the drill, therefore.

In conclusion, whilst Medellin is safe to visit right now, situations can change. Keep an eye on what’s going on in the city.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Medellin so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where to stay in Medellin, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, I’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Medellin:

• El Poblado – One of Medellin’s main neighbourhoods, with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops; it is known for its lively night scene. There are large shopping malls and a ton of bars and clubs. It’s our top recommendation for where to stay in Medellin for nightlife or as a solo traveller. There’s also a strong police presence during the day and even at night. That means more security guards, more cameras, and less crime – at least on paper. 
• Laureles – Laureles may not be the most famous neighbourhood in Medellin, but it’s our recommendation for the safest place in Medellin. It’s quieter and more pedestrian friendly than other parts of the city while still being within easy reach of the hustle and bustle.
• Envigado – Sleep well in a peaceful and relatively safe place to stay in Medellin, Envigado has everything for comfort. Being more rural, a range of outdoor adventures are right on the doorstep. Look out for pickpocketing during the day but you should be pretty safe from gang related crimes. Just keep in mind, wandering off alone or going off the beaten track.

Places to avoid in Medellin

While the City of Eternal Spring is far from the most dangerous city in South America, it isn’t necessarily known to be the safest place to visit either. Always use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.

Particularly after dark and late at night, nowhere is 100% safe here. When you arrive at your accommodation, ask the staff which areas are best to avoid. These people usually offer the most solid travel safety tips . 

Prado and the most historic district, El Centro (aka La Candelaria), become arguably the most desolate area of Medellin after dark . Commuters and cops leave the area and it becomes decidedly unsafe.

Although some of these places are also cool to visit during the day, these are places to avoid in Medellin for various reasons:

• Comuna 13, Parque Lleras (cool to visit but known for sex tourism)
• Parque de las Luces (NOT recommended after dark)
• Parque San Antonio (pickpockets)
• Prado (nice, but a hotspot for drugs)
• Parque Periodista
• Barrio Trinidad (this is where everyone goes to get drugs)
• and La Sierra

It’s important to know that all of the places can technically be visited. They just have a higher crime rate than others, but those crimes are usually not targeted towards tourists, besides petty theft. So these can become safer areas in Medellin for tourists to visit, too.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Medellin

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Medellin is no longer the crime hotspot in Pablo Escobar times. To its credit, it’s had a miraculous turnaround. From one of the most dangerous cities in the world to a modern and inviting hub, it’s a surprising change of fate.

BUT that doesn’t mean it’s 100% safe all the time. So here are some safety tips to help you stay safe in Medellin.

• Don’t walk around shady areas – Medellin is generally safe, but there are some areas to avoid. Don’t wander around after dark.
• Keep valuables close – and hide your money well – especially on public transport.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Take taxis at night – and make sure they are official taxis. 
• Try to blend in – Don’t flaunt wealth. Look at what the locals are wearing. Weirdly, only tourists wear shorts in Medellin, too. 
• Don’t walk with your phone out – it’s an easy (and valuable) target for thieves.
• Watch out at ATMs – pay attention to your surroundings.
• Be aware of spiking – Always keep an eye on your drinks and food, and never accept cigarettes from strangers. 
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Plan your routes – looking like a lost tourist WILL make you more of a target for thieves.
• Be wary of overfriendly strangers – they’re more than likely trying to scam you .
• If someone wants your stuff, give it to them – It’s not worth it.
• Don’t look for drugs – Hey, I don’t want to be a killjoy, but drugs are the epicentre of Colombia’s dark past.
• Be careful during rainy season – Colombia has two: April-May and October-November.
• Know what to do in an earthquake – and check local news.
• Learn Spanish – at least a bit.
• Remember the national emergency number: 123

Basically, it’s all about travelling smart. Colombia isn’t the violent scourge of Latin America that many perceive it to be, but it’s a safe city for millions of people.

Yes! You can definitely travel to Medellin safely alone. 

But of course, travelling by yourself does put you at risk of being more of a target sometimes. Before you head out on your trip, here are some great tips to help you solo travel Medellin like a boss…

• Read reviews and research for the best hostels in Medellin . Staying somewhere social is good for making friends. Choosing a good, safe area will make getting around easy.
• Speaking some Spanish really is going to enhance your time . This will help with everything from reading bus timetables to getting the best recommendations, and to even…
• Make some travel buddies! There is safety in numbers and it fights the travel blues.
• Keep in touch with people back home . Let them know where you’ll be. At the very least, keep a new travel friend up-to-date.
• Get a SIM card . Maps, emergency contact, last-minute accommodation, etc.
• Don’t push yourself too much. You don’t need to burn yourself out.
• Know your limits – whether it’s drugs, alcohol, or a crazy, spontaneous motorbike adventure , know when to call it a day.

Surprisingly, it’s pretty safe in Medellin for solo travellers. Remember to pay attention to your surroundings, but if you’re not looking for trouble, it doesn’t come looking for you in Medellin.

Yes, Medellin is safe for solo female travellers – and lots of them come here. So the chance to meet cool people in this cool city is high.

Unfortunately, like most places in the world, you’re going to have to think about different safety aspects than many cis-male travellers, for example. And, like other Latin American countries, macho society still needs work in Medellin.

A few tips for travelling safely as a solo female in Medellin can’t hurt. Here we go:

• Check out reputable hostels for women . Get to know other female travellers, and share safety tips and stories. There are female-only dorms if you prefer. 
• Make friends with your hostel staff. They have all the best recommendations for cool (and safe!) places to go. 
• Free walking tours are good to get to know the city’s culture and knowing the dangerous areas to avoid.
• Ignore any catcalling. It’s not the time to break boundaries – walk on and don’t stress yourself out.
• DO NOT walk around by yourself at night time . I’ll say this to all men too – but for solo women, this is a no-no.
• Let me mention spiking again here. Keep an eye on your own drink and DON’T accept anything from strangers .
• Police will help tourists . So if you have a problem, anything from being lost to feeling like you’re being hassled, go and talk to the police.
• Use a body-tight bag – keep your belongings as close as possible.

Although Colombia has a reputation for being a macho society, it has pros and cons… This DOES mean more catcalls and comments. But it ALSO means that men look out for women. 

That said, solo women travellers in Medellin can be safe. It doesn’t mean watching over your shoulder every second, but it means staying aware of your surroundings.

Laureles is one of the safest and expat-friendly neighborhoods in Medellin. While it doesn’t offer that many attractions, it’s a great area to base yourself if you’re worried about security and getting a good nights sleep.

Yep! Medellin is safe to travel for families. In the City of Eternal Spring, the weather is GREAT – not too hot and too cold for your little ones. Perfect.

But yeah, I hear you parents: you need to know a little more than that to have a safe trip to Medellin with the kiddos.

Okay, so the city is not always easy to walk around. The pavements aren’t exactly top-notch. The drains are deep and the curbs are high, so prams or pushchairs are pretty out of the question. 

The metro is generally fine to take children on, but during rush hour things can get pretty hectic, making it not ideal. And, yeah, don’t expect things like child car seats in taxis. 

I don’t think I need to preach to the choir about finding solid, well-reviewed accommodation for the family. Airbnbs in Medellin are fairly priced and ideal for groups.

Aside from these things, Medellin IS safe for children. Your kids will probably be the centre of attention with the locals because Colombian people are all about family. The kids will be a great icebreaker and will allow you to meet even more friendly locals.

Driving is pretty hazardous in Medellin. Traffic gets bad, especially in El Poblado and El Centro. 

Motorbikes, big buses and taxi drivers seem to have little to no consideration for everyone. So, may the odds be ever in your favour. Even as a pedestrian, the roads take no mercy.

Since Medellin’s public transport is very good , I think this is the best option to get around safely. The Medellin Metro is the only one in the WHOLE of Colombia and it is a god-send. 

These have specific routes, and their own dedicated lanes, meaning traffic isn’t that much of a problem. Just watch out for pickpockets and rush hours.

There are public buses but you’ll need to speak Spanish to understand it . I advise caution using the bus at night. It’s probably best just to take a taxi.

Taxis ARE safe in Medellin … but make sure your taxi is legit. The company logo should be there and the license plate number should match up with the sticker in the windscreen. Have your accommodation call one or go to taxi ranks.

When you’re in busy areas of the city, it’s a good idea to lock the doors. And to keep yourself extra safe, call someone while riding in the cab (or pretend to) and give the license plate number – so the taxi driver understands that someone else knows where you are. 

Better yet… Uber is safe in Medellin .

In fact, Uber has a good reputation for being particularly safe in Medellin. There’s none of the usual taxi hassle (i.e. being overcharged) and you won’t have to worry about having the right small bills to pay the driver since you pay in-app.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Medellin without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Medellin.

Is Medellin safe at night?

No, Medellin is not safe at night, especially for solo travellers and females. If possible, stay inside after dark or stick with a large group.

Is Medellin safe for tourists?

Yes, Medellin is safe for tourists as long as they stick to the rules and respect the culture. Being aware of your surroundings is a must in Medellin, no matter where you are. Unless you’re actively looking for trouble, you shouldn’t have a problem in Medellin.

Is it safe to walk around Medellin?

Walking around during the day in Medellin is safe. Stick to the touristy areas and you’ll be perfectly fine unless you wander off alone into small side streets. We wouldn’t recommend walking around at night in Medellin.

What is the safest area to stay in Medellin?

El Poblado is the safest and best area to stay in Medellin. It’s filled with expats, great restaurants, a lively nightlife scene and plenty of affordable accommodation. This doesn’t mean that you can drop all caution. Keep your eyes open no matter where you are and watch your belongings to add another level of safety to your trip.

No dar papaya ( don’t give papaya) is a phrase famous in pretty much all of Colombia. The meaning is basically: “don’t put yourself in a situation where you will be vulnerable.” And that is how I sum up the safety of Medellin.

Medellin has quite literally come up leaps and bounds in the last few years. From being a city practically run by drug lords, to one that’s winning awards. It’s honestly mental.

Gangs and street crime do still exist though. The best way to stay safe in Medellin is to basically not give papaya i.e. put yourself in a dangerous position. Don’t walk around at night in certain areas, don’t get in a taxi with a sketchy-looking driver, don’t talk to that over-friendly stranger, don’t buy drugs; these situations can be easily avoided.

Stick to safe areas, get taxis (or better yet – Ubers) after dark, and make friends with other people exploring this cool city at the same time you are. Keep your wits about you, trust your gut, don’t make yourself vulnerable, and you’re bound to have an AMAZING TIME in this beautiful city.

Looking for more info on traveling to Medellin?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Medellin
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Medellin travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

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Obvious thing not pointed out is that thieves are attracted to money . Where’s the money ? Poblado and Laureles. Most dangerous places ? Poblado and Laureles

If you don’t know Spanish don’t be walking around outside the busy tourist areas at night. Keep your phone in your front pocket. Avg daily wage is $10. The streets of Poblado are overflowing with Venezuelan immigrants without jobs selling crappy cocaine

I have been solo traveling Colombia by motorcycle for 2 years with one year spent in Medellin

Most dangerous places in Colombia for tourists is easily Cartagena and Santa Marta

I’ve visited Medellin five times this year it’s safe unless you’re stupid but if that’s the case United States isn’t safe if you’re stupid

God Bless to whoever is involved with this great website. It truly makes me feel like I’ve been there already. I was nervous about Medellin but after reading this page I feel like I have the confidence of a lion. Great information thank you

What do you mean by “down that beer”?; finish it up? I’m asking because the translation you posted doesn’t make much sense to me. I’m colombian. Otherwise, very good article! Thank you

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Is Medellin Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Colombia : Safety by City

• Barranquilla
• Bucaramanga
• Santa Marta

Medellin is the second biggest and most populous city in Colombia with 3 million people, located in the region of the Andes Mountains in South America.

It is very well known for its festivals that tourists can experience throughout the year if they decide to come to Medellin.

The Festival of the Flowers, the Christmas lighting, the International Poetry Festival, and the Jazz Festival are just some of them.

The must-see sights in Medellin are the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Junin pedestrian street from the Coltejer Building to Bolivar Park, Museo de Antioquia, and Parque Berrío.

This beautiful city has many things to offer in terms of culture, architecture, and entertainment.

• Warnings & Dangers in Medellin

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

The overall risk in Medellin is at the medium level since it is a city where both petty and violent crime acts can sometimes happen against tourists. To remain safe here and minimize the risk of trouble, you should perform activities during the daytime, avoid walking alone, call taxis by phone and do not show electronic devices, credit cards or money in public.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

The best advice in terms of taxis is to call them from your accommodation and always ask the driver to turn on the taxi meter. Driving in Medellin is horrific, so avoid driving your car. If you are a pedestrian, do not rely on traffic signs, since they are not respected. Remain very watchful when crossing the street, even on the marked pedestrian crossings.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Even though Medellin is considered a safe city for tourism, the crime rate does not support that fact. Petty crime is a serious problem and the theft of wallets, electronic gadgets and passports are increasing. Tourist sites are full of the police, so you can feel safe there, but try to avoid parks El Poblado and Laureles.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Flooding, landslides, and earthquakes are common natural disasters in Medellin. In case you happen to be there during any of these disasters, follow the advice of the local authorities.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Violent crime against tourists is not very common in Medellin, but it is important to avoid Comuna 13, Parque Lleras, Parque de las Luces, Parque San Antonio, Parque Periodista, Prado, Barrio Trinidad, and La Sierra especially after dark. Mugging strategies are at a high level and the process lasts a few seconds. It happens everywhere, at any hour, and if you happen to be the victim, just give them what they want. There is no point in arguing or defeating since that can make you more trouble.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Recent reports show that organized crime, related to the Medellín Cartel, a highly organized drug cartel in Colombia, has occurred repeatedly as a consequence of the fight against them. Tourists are not the direct targets but may be victims in case they find themselves at the place of the attack.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

The possible problems travelers can encounter here is the counterfeit money, so they should always exchange it at the airport or in a bank. Do not exchange money on the street even if they offer you a better rate. As in any other huge city, taxi drivers take advantage of tourists, thieves transform themselves into police officers and credit card skimming is frequent.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Since many women who visited Medellin had no issues, it is considered a quite safe city. Verbal harassment, like cat-calling or whistling, is frequent, but women just need to remain polite if this happens. They should be careful when on bus stations and in taxis, especially at night.

• So... How Safe Is Medellin Really?

This city is the economic and business center and a place full of shopping malls and skyscrapers.

Tourists are attracted by its culture, museums, and architecture.

While exploring the city’s landmarks, they need to be aware that the huge wandering population decreases after dark, and leaves dangerous streets susceptible to thieves and lawbreakers.

In case you are a vigilant and watchful person, who manifests self-esteem, there is no reason to worry about your well-being and you can enjoy your holiday in Medellin.

• How Does Medellin Compare?
• Useful Information

For most nationalities, a visa is not necessary when coming to Colombia, as a tourist and stay less than 90 days. On the other hand, there are countries whose citizens need to acquire a visa before they enter Colombia. Your passport must be valid during your stay here.

The local currency is the Colombian Peso and it is advisable to exchange your money since US dollars and Euros are rarely accepted. Credit cards are used here, but not to that extent as in other more developed countries. In case you need to use an ATM, those found in a shopping mall or large superstores are more secure than those on the street because there is a risk that somebody will rob you.

The 'City of everlasting spring' is the nickname for Medellin due to its climate. The weather is quite mild with an average temperature that ranges from 15 to 30 degrees C. Humidity is comfortable and cool air comes from the mountains surrounding Medellin. This provides Medellin with the perfect climate.

José María Córdova International Airport located in Rionegro is the airport that is used when coming to Medellin. Other airports which can be used as an alternative if you decide to come to Colombia are El Dorado International Airport, José María Córdova International Airport, and Rafael Núñez International Airport with non-stop flights to many places.

Travel Insurance

Colombia is a country where accidents can happen, in terms of luggage lost or theft, so what you need to have when coming here is travel insurance that will cover not only medical problems but any kind of loss of personal belongings.

Medellin Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Colombia - Safety by City

Explore medellin.

• Top 5 Medellin Neighborhoods for Travelers
• Where to Next?

6 Reviews on Medellin

Columbia correctly spelled is Colombia…

Wonderful trip!

I got a chance to see all of the must-see sights found in Medellin like Parque Berrío, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Museo de Antioquia, the Junin pedestrian street from the Coltejer Building to Bolivar Park. Everything was exceptional and we are already planning another trip in Colombia, in Medellin and other cities as well.

Fun place for young people

I wanted a vacation really badly so I booked a two-week stay in Medellin because it was dirt cheap, had warm weather and I can speak Spanish rather well.

Colombia gets a bad rep if you spend more than a few days in their country and watch local news you will see why. However, most of the incidents are gang-related, gruesome, but gang-related.

All of the locals I interacted with were happy to give me directions or simply to chitchat, don’t believe the naysayers, these people are not out to get you. Yes, they have pickpockets. Yes, they have scammers that will bump you in the street trying to sell random stuff because ‘gran descuento’. Yes, they might overcharge your cab ride – I always ask for an estimate beforehand. What country doesn’t have these flaws?

They excel when it comes to nightlife, you wont run out of clubs and they’re quite inclusive, if you’re gay you will have zero problems blending in. Plus, you will have your pick of gay bars and clubs.

Colombia as a country has a huge problem with pollution so if you’re asthmatic or have any other allergies you might find it rather hard to pace your breath. I can’t remember the last time I used my inhaler more than I did during my two-week stay there.

I was not a fan of the food, though… Local cuisine is not my cup of tea, if you’re a vegetarian you’ll have trouble finding decent salads that are something other than a couple of green leaves sprinkled with some oil.

So, watch your cash, phone, camera, avoid sketchy neighborhoods – believe me, you know it the second you see it. Walking around mindlessly with your eyes glued to the phone is simply asking for trouble, regardless if you’re in Medellin or NYC.

Dont let down your guard

i visited with my girlfriend and got mugged at Cerro el volador. it happened very fast, they were armed and Took all our stuff. maybe it was our mistake for going into a park with few visitors. we talked to some locals and they told us muggings like these do happen very often and more violent crimes are also not rare. on average 20 tourist get killed in medellin every year, most of them in Connection with prostitution or if they try to play the hero when getting mugged. Check colombian newspapers if you dont believe me. i dont want to spoil anyones fun or spread horror stories, i Just want to warn you: be careful! yes, Medellin is not as dangerous as it was 30 years ago, but it is still in no way a city in which you can be carefree. only take with you the valuables you really need, dont wave them around in public, take a copy of your Passport, leave the original in your Hotel. only take registered Taxis or uber. Metro felt safe too. dont walk around at night. avoid empty streets, even in broad daylight. ask your Hotel staff about Security risks and unsafe areas. and most inportantely: listen to your gut Feeling. If an area seems sketchy to you, it possibly is and should be avoided. even the centro around the big Museums can be seedy and doubles as a red light district. dont take unecessary risks, dont let Strangers into your Hotel room/ Airbnb. There are a Lot of muggings connected to tinder dates in the last years. dont leave your drink unprotected (this applies to men too!) and dont think that i am exaggerating because you know some people who had no problems at all – i definitively believe that the majority of tourists never encounter any serious crime, but some do and it can spoil your holidays or even worse – it is a serious Problem and not as rare as you might think. colombia is a beautiful country with charming people, but dont forget that it is also a very poor country compared to almost every western one. this means desperation and also crime. you will be a target for some. stay Safe!

Not heading in the right direction

Things have been going downhill in Medellin since 2023. Lots of guys getting killed meeting women down there. If not drugged, then kidnapped and stabbed or shot. Also, spontaneous robberies seem to be on the rise. There are still some relatively safer areas, such as Envigado and the graffiti area of San Javier, but these are more outliers. Even then, you still have to get from the airport to these areas, and then transportation back and forth. El Poblado is becoming more dangerous.

I had a good time when I went in October, but I also knew people there before I even arrived, and these were people I knew well enough to trust. If you don’t have any contacts down there, it’s more risky. If you go, don’t display your phone on the street, dress like a local, and never hail a taxi from the road. Also, if you are meeting a chica down there, it had better be someone you know exceptionally well.

2.5 stars. Wonderful place BUT in Dec 2020 as a single young female I was nearly kidnapped/robbed on arrival! My Uber (correct plates) set me up and stopped on the highway 10 mins in with the doors unlocked and windows down, didn’t explain why (he knew I spoke Spanish) and started texting someone long messages for close to 10 mins. I got out of it by yelling at him to drive but when I got to my Airbnb I could barely walk… Felt like I was moving through quicksand and had the worst headache of my life! Took 5 mins to cross the street. I stayed in the whole day but the rest of the trip was awesome! I really want to visit Bogota and Ctg but am afraid after that. I have extensive solo travel and this is the only place besides Rio during Carnival I ever felt fearful (nothing hpnd in Rio bc I look Brazilian, learned the language, and dressed like locals). The next time I booked a flight to Colombia there were massive demonstrations that left hundreds dead and blocked travel btwn cities. Luckily I canceled the flight same day! A friend visited that year and said some paramilitary or something blocked exits where she was and had machine guns and they were stuck maybe 2 days? I’m putting Colombia dead last in places to return to. Sad bc outside of crime it has so much to offer!

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Article Contents

• Medellin : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Is Medellin Safe for Travel in 2024? (From Our Experience)

Updated on April 26th, 2024

Are you wondering if Medellin is a safe travel destination? Find my safety tips, best areas to stay in and common scams in this safety guide.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in Colombia

Table of contents

• Is Medellin safe for traveling?
• Is there crime in Medellin?
• What are the safest parts of Medellin?
• Which dangerous parts of Medellin should you avoid?
• General safety tips for visitors to Medellin
• Popular scams in Medellin to watch out for
• Safety items to bring to Medellin
• Safest ways to get around Medellin
• Food and water safety in Medellin
• Safest types of places to stay in Medellin
• Is Medellin safe for family travel?
• Is Medellin safe for solo female travelers?

Tell anyone you’re going to Medellin, Colombia, and they may ask, “Really? Is it safe there?”

If I had only read about Medellin’s troubled past in books and in the news, I’d have the same question. But luckily, this South American city is a great place to visit, and it’s not as dangerous as it may seem.

As we have both stayed in Medellin as well as spent some time living there as expats, we’ll help you find out if Medellin is safe for a vacation, in this guide.

Here’s what you’ll be learning about safety in Medellin:

• Learn some of the best safety tips and precautions for travel in Medellin.
• Get familiar with several common Colombian travel scams you may find in Medellin.
• Discover the safest ways to get around Medellin, as well as what to know about food and water safety in Medellin.
• Take note of which areas in Medellin are safest, and how to avoid dangerous neighborhoods.

Is Medellin safe for traveling?

From our experience and with multiple trips to Medellin as American travelers, we have never experienced crime nor threats in Medellin. Of course, we have been vigilant and cautious, and in this way, we have avoided theft and crime.

Medellin is safe as a vibrant and special travel destination if you act smart. It’s why we’ve spent a month there, twice. We also have good friends ( Alex and Ryan ) who live there as expats.

To see more about what you can do in Medellin, check out our Medellin travel guide .

Is there crime in Medellin?

In general, yes: there is crime in Medellin. Remember, though: there is also crime in US cities like Chicago, St. Louis and Detroit. Many people find traveling in Medellin even safer than a lot of major US cities (if you’re sticking to the safe parts of Medellin).

Anyone (really, anyone ) can be a target for petty theft like iPhone mugging in Medellin. The best thing to do is use my suggestions below of how to avoid it! Regarding avoiding crime in general, stick to the city’s safe neighborhoods, and go to other areas with a local guide or reputable tour operator, if you have concerns.

What are the safest parts of Medellin?

The safest parts of Medellin, especially for being a foreign traveler, are Laureles, El Poblado, Envigado and Sabaneta. Other neighborhoods like Belen also safe; you may just feel the presence of fewer foreigners and less English may be available.

You can see examples of these places in our photos of Medellin gallery.

Which dangerous parts of Medellin should you avoid?

Medellin has a lot to see, from the Botero sculptures and museums in Centro, to a tour of Comuna 13 . There are places, though, that I’d never go to alone or without a guide.

For anyone who wants to see the best of the city, taking a free Medellin city guided walking tour is ideal. Your local guide will only take you to safe areas to see the top sights.

For areas to avoid, foreigners should stay away from the areas of Centro and Comuna 13 at night , as you will be a target for theft or crime. Areas outside the proven “safe areas” will also be more dangerous, especially for visitors who are not familiar with the lay of the land.

The better way to answer this question is likely, “Go to popular tourist sites during daytime only, and stick to the safe neighborhoods for accommodation, dining and entertainment.” For any other areas of Medellin, it’s best to go with a tour operator or with a local expert, as we have done for tours like the City Transformation Tour .

General safety tips for visitors to Medellin

Here are the tips that’ve helped us stay clear of crime while in Medellin.

Be careful with your phone

As the first thing that comes to mind, watch your phone. While Dan and I have never had our phones stolen in Medellin, we know a handful of foreigners who have.

Thievery for iPhones and smartphones is, not surprisingly, widespread in Medellin. Muggers want phones because they’re easy to grab and they have good resale value.

To protest against this, we have a few tips that have helped us avoid phone theft:

• Carry your phone in a zippered belt bag, money belt or hidden pocket.
• Never keep your phone in your jeans pocket.
• If walking alone at night, only use your phone in well-lit locations where others are around.
• Read and bookmark our list of how to avoid pickpockets while traveling .

Try not to look like a target

This is really challenging, especially if you are lost or using your phone to find your way. If you seem lost and vulnerable, scammers and muggers are more likely to approach you and distract you.

Know where you’re staying and how to get there

On our first weekend out in Medellin with Remote Year , we had a friend who had his apartment address written in his phone, and his phone died. You bet he was alone and couldn’t find his way back, for hours.

Take this as a story of what not to do! Always carry the card of your hotel or have your address written on a piece of paper, rather than only in a phone.

Popular scams in Medellin to watch out for

Much like in any big city (even NYC has scams !), travelers going to Medellin should be familiar with a few common Colombian scams in order to stay clear of them!

Unmarked menus and “foreigner prices”

Luckily, I have never been scammed in Medellin; however, I was the target of a scam in Cartagena , which I detailed in this article about classic travel scams from The Professional Hobo blog .

To sum it up, a friend and I were charged $100 USD to eat a simple meal on a beach where we were the only foreign travelers, and the owner didn’t let us leave until we negotiated and paid at least some of it. Scary.

Menus with no prices or ordering something from a server/owner of a restaurant without discussing a price should always be avoided, but there may be establishments that are experts at tricking you into this. While this may seem like it would happen at eateries geared toward foreign travelers, it’s equally dangerous at places that cater to locals and where you may be the only foreigner singled out to scam.

At any of the best restaurants in Medellin , you don’t have to worry about scams or being ripped off.

Dating scams

Dating scams and Tinder scams are rampant throughout South America, and a friend of ours was “nearly” the target of one in Lima, Peru .

In general, be wary of engaging in long conversations before meeting someone for a date in Medellin, in Colombia, or in South America in general. There are scam artists lurking on dating apps and dating websites who want to meet you, a foreigner, and scam you into “paying for their schooling” or “helping them out with some money.”

You never know who (or which multiple people) are behind a scam, and even going on a date with a “local” anywhere but a very public establishment like a restaurant or bar could lead to being cornered into draining you of your cash. Be smart, and go with your gut when making connections on dating apps in Colombia.

Common taxi scams

Throughout the world, taxi scams are VERY common, and I’ve been the target of one of those, in South Africa. Getting in a taxi in Colombia means potentially being in a cab that has a rigged taxi meter, charging you multiple times what your ride should cost, and leaving you with no way to fight it.

It’s also been rumored among travel communities that taxis in Colombia may drive you in circles or “take the long route” to your intended destination, in order to have you pay up more in total cost, and waste your time.

The way to avoid this is to take a ride service through a verified app, like Uber. This blog post from GoBackpacking.com is helpful in describing transport around Medellin.

Safety items to bring to Medellin

While Medellin is generally safe and your worst enemy will be petty theft, here are a few products to help out!

No matter how big or small, “wearing” your valuables guarded by a zipper and all within your reach and eyesight is best. Check out all the zippered belt bags I recommend in my list of the best fanny packs for travel . I specifically recommend this stylish lightweight one from Canvelle .

We recommend this in our safety guide for Mexico City , where the same type of theft is common. You can use this to make sure your laptop backpack doesn’t get swiped if you’re outside at a cafe, like one of our favorites, Pergamino , or any of the popular cafes in Medellin .

We got AirTags to put on our luggage and checked items when flying! We can track them and see if they made it off the plane or got stranded (hopefully not). You can use AirTags to put in your valuables like a laptop, phone or wallet, and if they become misplaced, they’re traceable via an app on your iPhone.

Safest ways to get around Medellin

There are quite a few ways to get around Medellin, which is cool! We have never experienced safety issues with any of the below and with the proper precautions, we hope it’ll be the same for you.

Medellin Metro, Buses and Metrocable

Taking the Medellin Metro and Metrocable (during daylight hours) can be fun! Make sure you use maps to ensure you’re heading in the correct direction. Avoid having valuables, or anything, in your pockets, as a crowded train means more commotion and more ways to be distracted should someone reach into your pocket to grab your wallet.

Wear a zippered belt bag, avoid flashing your money, and put away your phone, during the trip to avoid theft. Of all the public transit options in Medellin, public buses within the city are probably the least-frequented by foreign travelers.

For leaving Medellin, we’ve taken longer-distance buses quite a few times to Guatape and Santa Fe de Antioquia and that has been safe for us.

Uber has been a safe bet for us as travelers in Medellin. The only thing that may differ from what you’re used to at home when taking Uber or Lyft is that the driver a) may not speak English, so have your Spanish ready and b) may ask you to sit up front so that you look like his/her “friend” due to Uber being semi-maybe-not-so-legal in Colombia.

This blog post from Katie Caf Travel is all about Uber usage in Medellin.

We’ve walked around neighborhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, Centro and the area near the Jardin Botanico, for example. With our wits about us, watching our bags and not wearing anything flashy, we have fared just fine.

At night (the sun sets around 6pm in Medellin year-round), we have stayed close to where we’ve been living or staying, in El Poblado. If we need to walk alone from somewhere, to our accommodation, we try to avoid very dark areas, stick to well-populated streets and maintain close in contact with each other for safety.

Longer-distance bus travel from Medellin

If you are looking at taking any of the best day trips from Medellin and want to ensure safety, I recommend taking a private tour with a van and driver.

Food and water safety in Medellin

Medellin is a place where we have spent time and not had any issues with food! I’ll detail what we did.

Is the food in Medellin safe?

Lucky for me and Dan, we never experienced food poisoning in Medellin, and we were pretty liberal with eating a mix of street food and restaurants! Given, we didn’t eat much meat from the streets (we ate mostly sweets or carbs like breads or vegetarian empanadas).

Eating at restaurants in El Poblado or sit-down restaurants in other parts of the city should fare fine for you. Of course, food poisoning can happen anywhere — even at expensive and nice restaurants.

As for street food, use your judgement (and note that there’s always a chance of getting unlucky). Medellin has plenty of food to buy from small street vendors, especially near metro stations. If something doesn’t look right, or looks old, it’s best to avoid it.

Can you drink the water in Medellin?

This is a valid question, as Medellin (unlike other parts of Colombia ) is a city known for having potable tap water. The only other place in Latin America to which I’ve traveled, where the water is clean, is Costa Rica.

While some foreign travelers and expats are cool with trying water right from a sink, you may want to play it safe with bottled filtered water from a store, especially if your trip is short and you won’t be spending time acclimating to a month or more of the local water.

Please trust your own level of comfort with Medellin’s tap water while drinking it during your stay. No two people’s stomachs are the same, and everyone will have a different level of tolerance. For more ideas on preventing health scares, check out my list of how to avoid getting sick during travel .

Safest types of places to stay in Medellin

If you had the luck we did, you’ll find a great assortment of safe places to stay in Medellin. Also, jump back to the top of this guide for a cheat sheet on some quick vetted recommendations.

Here are our top 3 safe places to stay in Medellin

• Top hotel for safe location: Hotel Dann Carlton
• Top hotel for safety features: Hotel Intercontinental Medellín, an IHG Hotel
• Top backpacker hostel for safety: Viajero Hostel Medellin

Renting an apartment

The two times we have had extended stays in Medellin, we lived in apartments or serviced apartments. Both times, we lived in El Poblado, the international neighborhood known most for catering to travelers and expats.

To rent an apartment in Medellin, you can reaver via Airbnb, or for even better value, try a Casacol apartment like Loma Verde . This is where we stayed with our toddler, and it went great! The building has a 24-hour security guard, a 24-hour front desk staff person and it is located on a quiet residential street.

Casacol is the biggest apartment property manager in the city, and the buildings are new, clean, safe and have amenities like pools and gyms (depending on the property). Check out our Casacol apartment hotel stay review .

Staying at a hotel

With the growth of popularity of Medellin as an international tourism destination, there is no shortage of hotels. Since the pandemic, there are even more hotels to choose from.

My best advice is to read through reviews online, especially as they pertain to safety. You can search through reviews with the word “safety” as a keyword. I also recommend going off of the recommendations of friends, or people in your travel network, if you have one.

A few well-known hotels for having excellent levels of safety come recommended by my friend Alex, and they are the Hotel Dann Carlton and Hotel Intercontinental Medellín .

Staying in a hostel

Dan and I are pro hostelers, as you may be able to tell from my guide to the best tips for booking a hostel .

What I like about hostels is that they’re often in excellent locations and take security into account. In Medellin, this may be 24-hour desk staff, locked front doors, lockers or camera surveillance.

When choosing a hostel, prioritize safety! A few hostels that have exceptional safety reviews are Viajero Medellin Hostel and Los Patios Hostel .

Is Medellin safe for family travel?

The quick answer to this question is, yes! Take it from our friends Alex and Ryan who live in Medellin with their toddler . There is a whole list of family-approved safe things to do in Medellin with kids , and it’s why Medellin has a place in our list of the best family-friendly travel destinations .

Here are just a few safe things families can do with a trip to Medellin:

• Visit the Jardin Botanico to see nature and flowers
• Take part in the Sunday Ciclovía, where you’ll see other families, dog walkers, runners and bikers all in streets closed off to traffic
• Take a chocolate tour! This one comes recommended by Alex, who did it with her family.

Is Medellin safe for solo female travelers?

As a woman traveling in Medellin, I have never had any safety issues because I have tried my best never to walk alone at night and to be very careful with my phone and valuables.

As per all the advice above, women who have traveled solo in Colombia and Medellin rarely face safety concerns; however, it depends on how you choose to carry out your trip. If you travel in groups (like organized day trips ), avoid walking alone past dark, avoid going on dates with strangers and choose to stay in highly-rated safe accommodations, I believe you can be fine.

Of course, Medellin is a big Colombian city. Therefore, solo female travelers should ALWAYS avoid risky neighborhoods or engaging in higher-risk behaviors like drugs and alcohol. To prepare with some helpful safety products as well as female-specific things, check my list of items to pack for solo female travel .

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Is Medellín Safe?

Welcome to our Medellín safety guide.

As one of the most popular cities to visit in Colombia, it is here we can have all kinds of awesome experiences. This includes visiting the infamous barrio of Comuna 13, which is an interesting way to learn about a different side of reality in the city of Medellín .

There’s also plenty of interesting museums, and we can also head on day trips to incredible destinations such as to the giant rock of Piedra del Peñol as well as to the picturesque town of Guatapé.

Medellín Quick Summary:

• 📍 Where is it: Central Colombia
• 🗺 Difficulty Getting There: Very Easy
• ⏱ Time needed: 4-6 Days
• ☀️ Best Time to Visit: December-February, June-August

What's in this guide?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you’ll need to know about Safety in Medellín as a backpacker or traveler .

We’ll look at all the different factors, our top safety tips, other useful information as well as an FAQ section where we answer your key questions.

But first, you must be wondering…

Is Medellín Safe Right Now?

Quick Answer: Medellín has seen a radical (positive) change in its safety standards within the last few decades. This is mostly due to extra police efforts as well as the disbandment of Pablo Escobar and his cartel which used to run the streets here.

As well as this, Medellín has become a very popular tourist destination, as well as a landing point for digital nomads looking to live long-term in Colombia.

This means that certain areas like El Poblado have extra police presence in order to keep it safe (and for more tourism to keep coming in).

Regardless of where you stay and the places that you visit in Medellín, you’ll still want to practice good safety etiquette here. Later in this guide we’ll cover our very best tips for doing so.

We would advise any travelers who are thinking of heading to Medellín to prepare properly before arriving, and to get in touch with us where we can offer more guidance.

Also, read about Dan’s experience with backpacking Medellin over the years for more.

Where to Stay in Medellín

Like is the case with most large Colombian cities, Medellín has all kinds of neighborhoods (both good and bad). Overall, basing yourself in either Laureles or El Poblado is the best choice from a safety point-of-view , where there are a variety of accommodation choices for different budgets.

Travelers that are sticking to a low budget will want to base themselves in Hostal Lleras . Here you’ll have a nice dorm bed at a low cost, as well as being situated close to both the Parque Lleras and the main Parque del Poblado.

If you are looking for a solid mid-range accommodation choice, then the Hotel Zelva Negra is the perfect place for you. Here you’ll be staying in a chic private room just a block from the Parque del Poblado. They also do a great breakfast on-site, where you can also enjoy a variety of drinks at their bar.

Those who are looking for a more deluxe choice will want to stay at the Celestino Boutique Hotel . Here you’ll be able to enjoy their rooftop jacuzzi, bar and on-site spa. You’ll be staying in a luxurious room too, very close to many of the best restaurants and nightlife in El Poblado.

Things to do in Medellín

There’s a good reason that Medellín remains one of the most popular cities for tourists to visit in all of South America, let alone just Colombia.

Firstly we’ll find a ton of culture here , where we can also learn more about the city’s more turbulent recent history. We’ll also find areas such as El Poblado well set-up for tourists, with plenty of parks, tree-lined streets and interesting museums to explore.

From Medellín we can also head on some incredible day trips. The Piedra del Peñol is one of the most memorable, where you can climb this giant rock for unparalleled views over the surrounding Antioquia region. See this guide Dan wrote while in Medellín for more.

You can also visit the charming town of Guatapé , which is known for its cobblestone streets and colorful murals.

Be sure to read this guide on how many days you need in Medellín for ideas on how to plan your itinerary here. For some, more than 3 days here could be overstepping it.

Is Medellín Safe to Visit?

Medellín travel warnings.

Whilst there are no major official major risks right now, there are some things that you’ll want to watch out for.

The main risk to be careful of is armed robbery , which can happen virtually anywhere in the city nowadays and is targeted more towards tourists. Always know your surroundings and stick to safe areas, and also lessen your risk by following advice we’ve outlined in this guide.

Crime in Medellín

Whilst Medellín is far from its crime-stricken days several decades ago, there has been a recent increase in crime within the city (which is similar in many other parts of Colombia ).

This includes armed robberies and attacks on tourists, sometimes using the infamous scopolamine drug . It’s important to mention that whilst we can’t control others’ activities and choices, we always have 100% control over our own. This means making yourself the least attractive target, which almost guarantees you a safe and enjoyable time here.

Good practices to follow include dressing down, keeping your phone in your (front) pocket as well as sticking to popular streets with lots of other people around .

Safety in Medellín during the day

Medellín is generally safe to walk around alone, and especially in the more touristy areas which have heightened police presence. However there’s still a risk of petty crime and armed robbery, so it’s all about making yourself the least attractive target possible .

This includes dressing down, not walking into unknown streets by yourself as well as heading on organized tours into the less safe areas (such is the case when heading to Comuna 13).

You’ll also want to take extra care in places like Candelaria (aka: El Centro). Whilst a popular and safe barrio in Bogotá , this same-named neighborhood in Medellín isn’t the safest around (although there are things to see such as the Plaza Botero). If heading here you’ll want to practice our safety tips that we mention throughout this guide.

Medellín Safety at Night

When the sun goes down, you’ll find that Medellín has some of the best nightlife that you can find in all of Colombia. Here we’ll find a mix of touristy bars and local salsa venues, making it a must-experience during your time here.

Of course crime does increase in these hours, given drunk tourists make for good targets. Incidents usually involve pickpocketing, although armed robbery (and even the use of Scopolamine) have happened too.

Whilst this all sounds very alarming and needs to be taken seriously, these incidents are usually due to tourists being extremely drunk and alone, or wandering off alone in unknown or quiet areas .

Avoid doing those two things alone and your risks drop significantly down. Of course sticking to popular areas is another good piece of advice; just be sure to keep your phone and wallet in your front pockets (and don’t bring anything of high value out with you).

Got Travel Insurance for Medellin?

7 Safety Tips for Medellín

Below we will list 7 of our top safety tips for when heading to Medellín.

1. Be Sure to Dress Down

This is probably the best advice we can give, especially since crime is now targeted more towards those who have money (e.g. wealthy tourists) . Not standing out with designer clothes or big Rolexes is the best way to avoid becoming a target, so be sure to relax what you wear during the day. Of course at night you may want to dress up for dinner or if going clubbing, so in this case take taxis to and from the venue.

2. Be Cautious with the Local Tap Water

It’s important to first mention that Medellín is one of the few rare places in Latin America where drinking tap water is considered safe ( unlike places such as Peru ). Now if it’s your first ever time in the region then we’d instead recommend sticking to bottled water, just because it can still make your stomach upset (as well as tasting stranger).

3. Leave Valuables back in your Accommodation

As always (no matter where you travel in Latin America), it’s always a good idea to leave valuables back at your accommodation. This includes things like your passport, credit cards and anything else that the idea of losing would ruin your trip . You’ll also feel less stressed when walking around too!

4. Only head on tours with Reputable Tour Companies

Here in Medellín we’ll find a number of amazing experiences. Most are safe, however there are some where you’ll want to go with an experienced guide. The classic example is when heading to Comuna 13, which is a deprived barrio that was once the hotspot of Pablo Escobar’s drug activities. We highly recommend heading with this highly-rated tour which includes all transport and a free graffiti tour.

5. Take out Solid Travel Insurance

It’s always a good idea to take out travel insurance before heading-off, regardless of where you’re visiting. Not only will you have a solid policy ready in case something happens, however you’ll also be able to relax knowing that all expenses would be covered. We highly recommend taking out a policy with World Nomads, who is our trusted go-to.

6. Keep Valuables in your Front Pockets

Unfortunately petty theft is rampant around Medellín, and has recently become more targeted in affluent areas like Laureles and El Poblado . Keeping valuables in front pockets makes it a lot harder to get robbed unsuspectedly, and especially so when in busier places such as a nightclub.

7. Avoid Carrying Large amounts of Cash or Credit Cards with You

This is again a solid piece of advice regardless of where you travel. Having a daily budget is important for longer-term travel, and only taking this out with you keeps your long-term plans safe in case something does happen . Bringing credit cards with you is a bad idea too, given this can cause big problems if someone steals them from you.

Medellín Safety FAQ Guide:

What makes medellín so dangerous.

Quite on the contrary, Medellín has really improved its reputation in recent years and is quite safe. Of course there are still areas worth avoiding where crime is more frequent, such as the barrios of Aranjuez, Comuna 10 and Robledo .

Is Medellín safer than Bogota?

Both cities are massive, and of course will have their collection of safe and non-safe areas. Overall we feel that Medellín is safer than Bogotá , given many areas are better built-up for tourists here. You’ll also find that in the capital, various neighborhoods (even the touristy ones) can feel rough around the edges.

Is it safe to drink the water in Medellín?

In the majority of cases in Latin America, you should never drink tap water. However in Medellín (in the more touristy parts), it’s safe to drink the tap water . Many still prefer bottled water due to habits, and also as the taste can be somewhat different if you’re not used to it.

Is Medellín safe for American tourists?

Is medellín safe final words.

And that’s all for our guide on how to stay safe in Medellín.

A must-visit on any itinerary around Colombia, Medellin is often where travelers end up staying the longest (such as is the case with Dan). Here we can enjoy the perfect year-round temperatures, visit many cultural sites and also experience its heated nightlife.

Medellín has definitely improved its safety situation significantly in recent decades, especially when compared to the times under the rule of Pablo Escobar.

There of course are still some barrios worth avoiding, however nowadays there are some safe areas like Laureles and El Poblado which are well set-up for tourists.

In this guide, we’ve explored the current safety situation in Medellín , which includes whether it’s safe to visit, as well as any current travel advisories. As well as looking at the best things to do in Medellin we’ve also included our FAQ which answers your most burning questions.

Are you still wondering if it’s worth heading to Medellín? Then be sure to read this guide on the seven best reasons to visit Medellin over other Colombian cities.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

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