Colombia has emerged from its turbulent past to become one of South America’s Safest Places in Colombia most vibrant and culturally rich destinations. With its warm people, breathtaking landscapes, and colorful cities, Colombia offers unforgettable experiences for travelers. But for many first-time visitors, safety is a top concern.
Thankfully, Colombia today is safer than it’s been in decades—especially if you know where to go. This guide covers the 10 safest places in Colombia to visit in 2025, where travelers can explore comfortably, whether solo, in a couple, or with family.
1. Medellín – The City of Eternal Spring
Safest Places in Colombia Once infamous, Medellín has transformed into one of Latin America’s safest and most innovative cities. Set in a valley and surrounded by lush green hills, it offers year-round spring weather, a modern metro system, and plenty of cultural attractions.
Why it’s safe: Improved infrastructure, tourism police, and community-led safety initiatives
Top attractions: Comuna 13 street art tour, cable cars, Botanical Garden
Where to stay: El Poblado – popular with tourists and well-patrolled
Safest Places in Colombia Medellín is ideal for digital nomads, solo travelers, and culture seekers looking for an exciting but safe city to explore.
2. Salento – Tranquility in the Coffee Triangle
Salento is a small town nestled in Colombia’s Coffee Region, known for its lush hills and welcoming atmosphere. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and ideal for escaping the hustle of city life.
Why it’s safe: Low crime rates, strong local community, high tourism awareness
Top attractions: Valle de Cocora, coffee farm tours, horseback riding
Where to stay: Family-run guesthouses and eco-lodges in or near the town center
Safest Places in Colombia If you’re a nature lover or coffee enthusiast, Salento is one of the safest and most relaxing places to visit in Colombia.
3. Cartagena – Colonial Beauty with Caribbean Charm
Cartagena is Colombia’s jewel on the Caribbean coast. Its walled Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and cultural festivals.
Why it’s safe: Tourist-friendly, well-policed, especially in the historic district
Top attractions: Castillo San Felipe, Getsemaní neighborhood, Rosario Islands
Where to stay: Centro Histórico or Bocagrande for easy access and high safety
Safest Places in Colombia While petty theft exists (as in any touristy area), the city remains one of Colombia’s most secure for travelers.
4. Barichara – The Most Beautiful Village in Colombia
Often referred to as the most beautiful town in the country, Barichara is a peaceful destination filled with whitewashed buildings, terracotta roofs, and cobblestone streets.
Why it’s safe: Quiet rural setting, friendly locals, very low crime rates
Top attractions: Camino Real trail, local art shops, colonial churches
Where to stay: Boutique hotels and cozy B\&Bs in the town center
Barichara offers a romantic and artistic vibe, ideal for couples and photography lovers.
5. Villa de Leyva – Time Travel to Colonial Colombia
Safest Places in Colombia Villa de Leyva is a charming colonial town located northeast of Bogotá. With its expansive cobbled plaza and preserved architecture, it feels like stepping back in time.
Why it’s safe: Calm environment, popular weekend escape for Bogotá residents
Top attractions: Fossil museum, El Infiernito ruins, Pozos Azules
Where to stay: Colonial-style inns within walking distance of the main square
Perfect for history buffs and families, Villa de Leyva is both peaceful and culturally enriching.
6. Santa Marta – Gateway to Natural Wonders
Safest Places in Colombia Santa Marta may not be as well-known as Cartagena, but it’s a laid-back coastal city offering a mix of urban convenience and nature access.
Why it’s safe: Increasing tourist infrastructure, stable neighborhoods like El Rodadero
Top attractions: Tayrona National Park, Ciudad Perdida trek, Taganga diving
Where to stay: El Rodadero or the historic center for convenience and safety
Santa Marta is your ideal base for adventure while maintaining a relaxed, secure vibe.
7. Palomino – Beach Bliss on a Budget
Located just a few hours from Santa Marta, Palomino is a beach village beloved by backpackers and eco-tourists. It’s known for its bohemian spirit and natural beauty.
Why it’s safe: Small community, low crime, focused on sustainable tourism
Top attractions: River tubing, yoga retreats, beach bonfires
Where to stay: Beachfront hostels or eco-lodges inland
Palomino is great for travelers looking for serenity, especially solo wanderers and nature lovers.
8. Guatapé – The Most Colorful Town in Colombia
Safest Places in Colombia Famous for its rainbow-painted buildings and giant granite rock, Guatapé is one of Colombia’s most Instagrammable spots.
Why it’s safe: High tourist presence, small town atmosphere, low crime
Top attractions: El Peñol rock climb, lake boat rides, zócalo-filled streets
Where to stay: Town center or lakeside cabins
Only two hours from Medellín, Guatapé is a perfect and safe day trip or overnight getaway.
9. Bogotá (North Districts) – Culture, Museums, and Safe Zones
Though Bogotá gets mixed reviews for safety, many areas—especially in the north—are quite secure and worth visiting. It’s the capital and cultural heart of Colombia.
Why it’s safe (selectively): Districts like Usaquén and Chapinero are well-patrolled
Top attractions: Gold Museum, Monserrate cable car, La Candelaria
Where to stay: Chapinero Alto or Zona G for safety and access to great food
Stick to the right neighborhoods and avoid walking alone late at night, and you’ll discover why Bogotá is beloved by many.
10. Leticia – Peace in the Heart of the Amazon
For a different kind of trip, head to Leticia, a serene town on the edge of the Amazon rainforest. It’s where Colombia meets Brazil and Peru and is ideal for eco-tourism.
Why it’s safe: Isolated, eco-focused, strong local community tourism
Top attractions: Amazon river tours, monkey island, indigenous communities
Where to stay: Eco-lodges and jungle resorts
Leticia is for the adventurous at heart—but it’s also surprisingly calm and safe.
Conclusion: Discover the Safer Side of Colombia
Colombia is no longer the no-go zone it once was. Thanks to years of transformation, it now offers travelers a variety of safe, vibrant, and affordable destinations that cater to every kind of traveler—from beach lovers and coffee drinkers to art aficionados and digital nomads.
By choosing the right locations, staying in tourist-friendly zones, and practicing basic safety, your trip to Colombia in 2025 can be just as smooth and enjoyable as travel in any other part of the world.
So go ahead—embrace Colombia’s beauty, energy, and diversity, and start planning your journey to one of the most exciting destinations in Latin America.
FAQs About the Safest Places in Colombia
1. Is Colombia safe for tourists in 2025?
Yes, especially in areas like Medellín, Cartagena, Salento, and Guatapé. While some rural regions still experience unrest, tourist areas are heavily patrolled and increasingly secure.
2. What areas should tourists avoid in Colombia?
Travelers should avoid isolated border areas, regions with active conflict, and certain districts in big cities after dark. Always consult travel advisories before visiting.
3. Is it safe to take public transportation in Colombia?
Yes, particularly in cities like Medellín (metro) and Bogotá (TransMilenio), though petty theft can occur. Keep your belongings close and travel during daylight hours when possible.
4. Are Colombian people welcoming to tourists?
Extremely! Colombians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Many are proud of their country’s improvements and are eager to help visitors have a positive experience.
5. What safety tips should I follow while in Colombia?
Stick to well-reviewed accommodations, avoid flashing valuables, don’t walk alone late at night, and use rideshare apps or official taxis for travel at night.