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state department travel advisory to colombia

U.S. State Department Reissues Colombia Travel Warning

Cartagena's old town and downtown

Cartagena, Colombia. Photo: Shutterstock.com

The U.S. State Department this week reissued its advisory for travel to Colombia , again telling Americans to “reconsider” travel to the South American country due to crime and terrorism.

The warning, a Level 3 warning that is one step under the highest warning level from the State Department, specifically calls out a few areas of Colombia that travelers should avoid—Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander due to crime and terrorism, along with the Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.

"Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas," the advisory reads.

The State Department is recommending that those who are traveling to Colombia do a few things to keep themselves safe, including avoiding protest areas and crowds, monitoring local media, keeping a low profile, and being aware of their surroundings. It also recommends that travelers enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) that alerts travelers while they are in destination.

Outside of Colombia, the only other update from the State Department in 2024 is in its advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. It is still recommending travelers avoid travel to Gaza and reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank.

Just like in Colombia, travelers should be aware of their surroundings, follow instructions of local officials, avoid demonstrations, and enroll in STEP if they are traveling to Israel or the West Bank.

state department travel advisory to colombia

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Colombia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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Be aware of current health issues in Colombia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

  • Dengue in the Americas February 28, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (influenza)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Colombia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Colombia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Colombia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Colombia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Colombia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Colombia. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Colombia, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

  • Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
  • Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
  • Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Colombia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these countries.

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to the cities of Barranquilla, Cali, Cartagena, or Medellín. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, the archipelago department of San Andrés and Providencia, or the city of Bogotá (the capital).

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

  • Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
  • Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
  • Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
  • Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

  • Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
  • From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
  • Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

  • Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

  • Sand fly bite
  • An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

  • Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
  • Bite from an infected rodent
  • Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
  • Avoid rodents and areas where they live
  • Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

  • Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Colombia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

  • Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
  • Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
  • Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
  • Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Colombia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanone
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Colombia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Colombia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Colombia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Colombia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Colombia may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Colombia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Colombia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Is it safe to go there? The U.S. travel advisory system, explained

If you’re planning an international trip, here’s how to use the State Department’s country-by-country guide to minimize your risk of encountering crime, violence, or civil unrest.

A jet at an airport terminal gate.

On October 19, the U.S. Department of State issued a rare advisory that Americans overseas “exercise increased caution” due to heightened tensions and chances of terrorism around the world, spurred by the Israel-Hamas war. It’s part of a system of travel warnings that’s been around in some form since 1978, designed to help citizens assess how safe a destination might be at a given time.

The current version of the system, which launched in 2018, gives fluid rankings from Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) to Level 4 (do not travel), indicating how risky countries (and in some cases, regions) are for Americans to visit. Rankings are based on factors such as crime rates, civil unrest, and the threat of terrorism. They are meant to give “clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions,” says a State Department spokesperson.  

Not surprisingly, on October 14, the State Department moved Israel and the West Bank to Level 3 (reconsider travel) and Gaza to Level 4.  

Here’s how the advisories work and how to use them.

What is a travel advisory?

The U.S. State Department inaugurated the travel advisory system in 1978, initially aiming warnings at airlines and travel companies. The system was scrutinized after the 1988 bombing of a Pan Am flight from London to New York , which exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland , killing all 259 passengers and crew plus 11 people on the ground.  

Investigations found U.S. authorities had been aware of a credible threat to a Pan Am flight but hadn’t informed the public. In response, the media and consular offices began issuing travel warnings. In 2018 the U.S. introduced its current four-tier advisory system. There are near-identical versions in Canada , Australia , and New Zealand .

To determine rankings, the State Department considers a nation’s political volatility, crime trends, medical care standards, and the threat of kidnappings or terrorism. (Politics also ends up playing an unspoken role.) Some countries, such as Russia , receive a Level 4 ranking partly because the U.S. government may have limited ability to assist citizens there. Others rise to Level 4 due to a crisis, such as the military coup that recently rocked Niger .  

When the travel advisory system relaunched in 2018, it also included state-by-state evaluations for Mexico , which draws more than 11 million American travelers a year. “Some Mexican states are quite safe for U.S. tourists, while others are riskier due to narco-trafficking violence,” says Ryan Larsen , executive director of the Institute for Global Engagement at Western Washington University. Yucatán and Campeche states are currently at Level 1, while six other Mexican states are at Level 4, including Sinaloa.

( Solo female travelers share tips for staying safe on the road .)

Epidemics and natural disasters also can prompt a travel advisory number to rise. Americans may be prompted to reconsider visiting a country recovering from a tsunami or major wildfires, since their presence could hinder rehabilitation efforts. This occurred after the February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey . Such advisories can remain in place for weeks or months.

The strictest-ever advisories came in April 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic , says Larsen, who did a thesis   on U.S. travel warnings. At that time, about 80 percent of the world’s countries were at Level 4.

At press time, about 70 percent of the world’s countries were rated Level 1 or Level 2 by the State Department, indicating they’re relatively safe. There are currently 21 countries at Level 3 and 21 at Level 4.

How to use travel advisories

Before booking an international trip, consult the State Department website to see where your destination ranks. While Level 1 and 2 countries are considered relatively safe, you should still register with the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . This lets Americans overseas use their smartphone to receive travel advisory updates and alerts about emerging dangers in their destination (protests, extreme weather).

Level 3 countries are considered more dangerous for foreign visitors, who should “reconsider travel,” according to the State Department. If you are headed to a Level 3 country, which currently includes Pakistan and Colombia , do wider research on its safety and on the places you’ll visit there, advises Jun Wen , a professor of tourism at Australia’s Edith Cowan University. For instance, while some remote areas in the Colombian Amazon still suffer from drug-related violence, cities such as Cartagena and Medellín are relatively safe. Going on a fully guided group or individual tour can also help you navigate destinations where political unrest or crime might impact your safety.

Travelers should study not only the advisories provided by their own country, but also by the U.S., United Kingdom, and Australia to broaden their understanding of the risks in Level 3 countries, Wen says. As for Level 4 countries, that “Do Not Travel” advice couldn’t be any clearer.

Other countries also issue warnings to their citizens about visiting the U.S. Canada recently informed its LGBTQ travelers they may be affected by laws in certain U.S. states. Australia, meanwhile, cautions its citizens visiting the U.S. to be wary of higher crime rates and gun violence, and even to learn safety strategies for active shooter scenarios.

People who visit countries with Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisories don’t just risk their safety. They also may have travel insurance complications, says Linchi Kwok , tourism management professor at California State Polytechnic University Pomona.

( How travel insurance can—and can’t—help when your plans change .)

They must pay much higher premiums, and their insurance can be invalidated if the advisory for their destination is elevated. “Medical coverage can be minimal, too, particularly if the travel advisory is put up against a disease or an outbreak,” says Kwok. “I encourage Americans to think twice before they travel to Level 3 and especially Level 4 destinations.”

Warnings and their impact on tourism

Travel advisories can be biased, Larsen argues. His research found that, while the U.S. didn’t often overstate the risk of travel to countries with which it had poor relations, it did often understate the danger of visiting nations that were its close allies. Elevating a travel advisory can stoke diplomatic tensions between two countries. Once a country is raised to Level 3 or 4, many tourists will avoid visiting, and many American universities won’t let students join study abroad programs.

The economic ramifications of a level change impact individual businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. For instance, J 2   adventures , a Jewish-focused tour company, saw most of its fall group trips to Israel canceled after the start of the Israel-Hamas war (and the higher advisory level), says cofounder Guy Millo. “This is not just because of the violence on the ground, but because of practical considerations like accessibility of commercial airline flights,” he says. “Most tourists from North America and places around the globe simply couldn’t get here even if they wanted to.”  

Related Topics

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state department travel advisory to colombia

U.S. State Department Issues New Travel Advisory Update For Colombia

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On January 2, 2024, the U.S. State Department renewed its travel advisory for Colombia , advising Americans to reconsider their travel plans to the country. The advisory cites concerns about crime and terrorism as the primary reasons for this caution.

Do not travel to these Areas of Colombia:

  • Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
  • The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.

In Colombia, widespread violent crime, including homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is prevalent, alongside organized criminal activities like extortion and kidnapping. Terrorist groups and criminal organizations operate in the country, posing a threat to various public places and U.S. government facilities with potential attacks. Demonstrations, often disrupting transport and travel, are frequent across Colombia and may escalate into violence, leading to injuries or fatalities., says the advisory.

Safety tips for travelers to Colombia

Colombia Launches One Of The Best Visas For Digital Nomads

Steer clear of areas where protests and large gatherings are happening.

Keep up-to-date with local news for any urgent updates and adjust plans accordingly.

Maintain a discreet presence.

Stay vigilant about your immediate environment.

Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and assistance during emergencies.

Follow updates from the U.S. State Department on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter .

Review Colombia’s Country Security Report.

Have an emergency plan ready and familiarize yourself with the Traveler’s Checklist .

Safe and popular places to visit in Colombia

San Andres, Colombia

Medellín : Once known for its turbulent past, Medellín has transformed into a vibrant, modern city. Ideal for urban explorers and culture enthusiasts, it offers innovative public spaces, art, and festivals.

Bogotá : The capital city, rich in history and culture, is perfect for those interested in museums, architecture, and urban nightlife.

Cartagena : Known for its colonial charm and Caribbean beaches, this city is ideal for history buffs and beachgoers.

Santa Marta : Offering beautiful beaches and proximity to Tayrona National Park, it’s great for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

Coffee Triangle (Pereira, Manizales, Armenia) : The heart of Colombia’s coffee region, it’s a must-visit for coffee lovers and those interested in rural tourism.

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U.S. State Department Issues Warning Against Traveling to These Popular Caribbean and South American Countries

The U.S. Department of State is warning Americans to reconsider traveling to Jamaica and Colombia.

state department travel advisory to colombia

The U.S. Department of State is warning Americans to reconsider traveling to a pair of popular Caribbean and South American countries amid a recent uptick in crime.

The State Department last week re-classified both Colombia and Jamaica as “Level 3,” urging Americans to “reconsider travel” to the countries. The State Department regularly assesses the security and health situations in each country and adjusts the classification accordingly on a scale of one (which indicates travelers should exercise normal precautions) to four (which warns Americans not to travel there).

Getty Images

In Jamaica, the department warned “violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common” and said “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts .” The Department added “local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.”

A do not travel advisory was issued for several areas on the island, including downtown Kingston.

In Colombia , the State Department warned travelers should reconsider their trip “due to crime and terrorism” and should “exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping.” Additionally, the department warned terrorist organizations may carry out attacks on transportation hubs, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, airports, or other public areas.

The department said travelers especially should not visit the Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments, and should not go to the Colombia-Venezuela border region “due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.”

“Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread,” the State Department wrote in its updated advisory. “Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.”

If travelers do go to Colombia , the Department said they should avoid protests and large crowds and keep a low profile.

Travelers who do visit these countries can enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts “and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.”

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State Department’s travel advisory categorizes Colombia as Level Two nation

state department travel advisory to colombia

The U.S State Department has released its global travel advisory list and as of January 12, Colombia has been up-graded as a Level Two country, where U.S nationals must still “exercise increased caution,” but are free to visit large areas of the country, formally ranked as “no-go-to” zones. Colombia joins Brazil, Belgium, Mexico and Dominican Republic in this tourism-friendly category.

While some many regions of Colombia remain off-limits due to “crime and terrorism” others are considered safe enough for U.S. government personnel. The U.S travel advisory states that Arauca, Cauca (except Popayán), Chocó (except Nuquí), and Norte de Santander (except Cucuta) are not safe to visit.

According to Level Two categorization, travelers should “reconsider” visiting the departments of Antioquia (north of Medellín), Caquetá, Casanare, César, Meta, Cordoba, Guainía, Guaviare, Valle del Cauca, Putumayo, Vaupés and Vichada. Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution in Pasto, capital of Nariño.

Four departments along Colombia’s Caribbean coast are considered safe to visit, such as Bolívar, La Guajira, Magdalena and Atlántico.

The advisory states that Highway 90 that unites Cartagena with Barranquilla and Santa Marta is also safe to travel. So, too, most of the interior departments of Cundinamarca, Boyacá, Tolima and Santander. The coffee region’s main highway – Autopista del Café – that connects Armenia in Quindío with Pereira in Risaralda and Manizales in Caldas is also considered a safe transportation corridor.

For Colombia’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, María Lorena Gutiérrez, a Level Two classification “is good news” as Colombia officially leaves a “blacklist of nations the United States recommends not to visit.” For decades Colombia was considered by the State Department as a Level Three nation where travelers were urged to “reconsider” their trip.

Cuba, Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador remain Level Three nations.

As recently as last year, Colombia was a country in which all the territory fell under a travel warning as high risk. “The State Department no longer generalizes all of Colombia as a destination with security risks, but now specifies regions where foreigners are recommended not to visit,” said Gutiérrez.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism (MinCIT), from 2010 to 2016, the influx of U.S citizens grew 40% from 357,460 visitors in 2010 to 498,960 in 2016. As of November 2017, this number grew additional 5.1% with 469,425 U.S citizens entering Colombia for tourism. “We know that there are many security challenges, but the government has not lowered its guard to resolve them and we continue to consolidate the end of the conflict to provide more guarantees to domestic and foreign tourists,” remarked the senior government official.

Colombia was highlighted in a January 10 feature in The New York Times as one of “52 Places to Go in 2018” and second of all possible world-wide destinations. The New York Times’ interactive feature ranked New Orleans and their top global destination. “The New York Times report, as well as many others in the international media, shows how the world is rediscovering Colombia after more than half century of conflict,” reaffirmed Gutierréz.

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Following ‘nationwide state of emergency,’ State Dept. issues travel advisory to South American spot

  • Published: Mar. 25, 2024, 7:51 p.m.

TRAVEL ADVISORY ECUADOR

Soldiers patrol the perimeter of Inca prison during a state of emergency in Quito, Ecuador, Jan. 9, 2024, in the wake of the apparent escape of a powerful gang leader from prison. (Associated Press/Dolores Ochoa) AP

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The U.S. Department of State is urging citizens to avoid traveling to Ecuador and is currently limiting travel for U.S. personnel in the country due to civil unrest, crime and kidnapping.

The level 2 travel advisory follows the March 7 extension of a nationwide state of emergency to continue through April 8.

According to the travel advisory, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared on Jan. 8 that a nationwide state of emergency was in effect for 60 days due to an “internal armed conflict” and military action being taken against organized criminal gangs throughout the country.

The U.S. Embassy in Ecuador points out that violent crimes such as murder, assault, kidnapping and armed robbery are common across the country and that the rate of violent crime is significantly higher in areas where criminal organizations operate.

The embassy also warns that demonstrations frequently take place in the country and that demonstrators often block local roads and major highways.

With some demonstrations lasting weeks, blocked roads may significantly reduce access to public transportation, health services and airports, and travel within and between cities.

The embassy goes on to say that with much of the country’s territory being sparsely populated and isolated, first responders’ and U.S. government officials’ access is extremely limited and can lead to significant delays in assistance to U.S. citizens.

In 2023, there were approximately 44.5 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in Ecuador — almost double the homicide rate of 25.9 reported in 2022.

If you decide to travel to Ecuador, the State Department suggests you:

  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram
  • Review the Country Security Report for Ecuador.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

state department travel advisory to colombia

Places Americans Should Not Travel To in 2024, According To The U.S. State Department

W hile traveling opens one’s mind and heart to new experiences, it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers in some places. The U.S. State Department regularly updates its travel advisories for over 200 countries worldwide according to several risk indicators. These risk factors include crime, social instability, and terrorism. As of January 2024, level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisories are in effect in 19 countries, including the following.

1. Myanmar (Burma)

Most Southeast Asian countries are considered safe and welcoming, but one notable exception is Myanmar, also known as Burma. The government has faced ongoing challenges. Potential wrongful detentions, civil unrest, and limited healthcare resources are among the primary reasons why the U.S. State Department advises against travel to Myanmar. 

According to the U.S. State Department, travelers should exercise caution in some European destinations despite the continent’s reputation as a safe sanctuary. Belarus is one such location. Given Belarus’s tight ties to Russia, the warning is a product of political tensions and the ripple effects of the war between Russia and Ukraine. 

Despite Russia’s continued appeal as a tourist destination, the country is currently off-limits due to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Limited assistance with unlawful detentions, singling out U.S. passport holders, and limited flight alternatives are some of the reasons why the U.S. State Department warns against travel to Russia.

Millions of people go to Mexico every year, and each state gets a different travel advisory level. Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas are the six states out of thirty-two categorized as Level 4. The main risk factors across the nation are kidnapping and crime

5. Venezuela

Along with a political crisis that began in 2014, Venezuela has also been dealing with human rights abuses and a lack of healthcare. The United States Embassy in Caracas had its diplomatic staff removed in 2019. Crime, social instability, abduction, wrongful incarceration, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure are among the dangers that the nation faces.

The U.S. Advises Tourists Not To Travel To Belarus In 2024

U.S. to Spend $50 Million to Cut Visa Wait Times and Passport Backlogs

Dawit Habtemariam

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

March 27th, 2024 at 3:15 PM EDT

The U.S. government is putting more financial resources toward cutting its excessive visa wait times. Let's hope it gets the job done.

Dawit Habtemariam

Congress has set aside $50 million for the U.S. State Department to help “reduce passport backlogs and reduce visa wait times” in a bill signed into law by U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday and praised by the travel industry this week.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Travel Association applauded the passage of the bill, which was part of a package of appropriations to fund select federal agencies through September. The lobbying group said the average wait time for a first-time visitor visa for the U.S.’s top inbound markets is around 400 days.

The law gives the State Department some discretion. It doesn’t specifically restrict the spending for any visa category, such as for business and leisure rather than education. It also doesn’t mention any specific country for which the State Department should cut wait times.

“The State Department must now deploy these resources as quickly as possible to lower wait times and facilitate growth in inbound visitation,” said Tori Emerson Barnes, executive vice president of public affairs and policy for U.S. Travel. 

The State Department expects visitor visa wait times to span hundreds of days in Colombia, Mexico, and India this year because of high demand for travel to the U.S., Julie Stufft, the State Department’s deputy assistant secretary for visa services, told Skift in November .

U.S. Travel Industry Pressures Government

Reducing visa wait times has been one of the travel industry’s most pressing issues, especially as the U.S. prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Last week, over 300 travel industry professionals lobbied their federal lawmakers to take action on the issue.

At the Skift India Summit , U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said Biden specifically asked him to work on reducing the visa backlog .

For the past few years, visa wait times have spanned hundreds of days in embassies in Brazil, Mexico, India and Colombia — top inbound markets for the U.S. Long visa wait times cost the U.S. $12 billion in travel spending in 2023 , according to U.S. Travel.

To cut the backlog, the State Department has taken steps like waiving interviews for low-risk visa applicants, moving staff to countries with large backlogs, and hiring more processing staff. Some embassies in Brazil and India have seen massive drops. The federal agency issued a record 10.4 million visas in 2023.

As long as visa wait times stay long, the U.S. risks losing travelers to other destinations.

“If you are a leisure traveler or a business traveler, you’re likely to say, ‘I’ll go somewhere else,'” said U.S. Travel CEO Geoff Freeman at the Skift Global Forum in September.

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Cruise line stops visits to popular Caribbean resort amid U.S. travel advisory

A major cruise line has suspended ships from going to the Caribbean nation of Haiti because of an increase of violence and unrest in the area.

Royal Caribbean has suspended calls at Labadee “due to the evolving situation in Haiti,” the company said in a prepared statement as reported by Cruiseindustrynews.com.

“We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team,” Royal Caribbean continued. Neither passengers nor crew have faced violence or threats, the company said.

This comes after the State Department urged people to not visit and implemented a Travel Advisory earlier this month. The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince told American tourists to “not travel to Haiti” in a press release issued March 10 .

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the statement continued. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them.”

A do-not-travel alert for Haiti was issued in July 2023 for what the State Department described as “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor health care infrastructure.”

The Travel Advisory for Haiti is now at Level Four, which discourages any travel to the country.

American travelers in Haiti are advised to avoid crowds, avoid being outside after dark, prepare to shelter in place, keep a low profile and be aware of their surroundings, the U.S. Embassy said.

Several Royal Caribbean ships were set to visit Labadee over the next several days. Instead, those stops will be replaced by a day at sea as well as extra time at a previously scheduled stop in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Other ships will visit Nassau, the Bahamas or Perfect Day at CocoCay, another company-owned location.

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More than 33,000 people have fled Haiti’s capital in a span of nearly two weeks as gangs continue to pillage homes and attack state institutions , according to a new report by the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The majority of those displaced have traveled to Haiti’s southern region, which is generally peaceful compared with Port-au-Prince, which has an estimated population of 3 million, and remains largely paralyzed by gang violence . The airport in Port-au-Prince has also been closed because of the violence.

Scores of people have been killed and some 17,000 people overall have been left homeless since the gang attacks began on Feb. 29, with gunmen targeting police stations and the main international airport that remains closed.

They also stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons and released more than 4,000 inmates.

More than 90% of those fleeing did so by bus, forced to go through the community of Martissant, which connects Port-au-Prince with Haiti’s southern region, and is controlled by warring gangs that have killed dozens of civilians in the area.

IOM noted that Haiti’s southern region is already home to another 116,000 people who fled gang violence in previous months, and that rural provinces do not have the infrastructure or resources “to cope with these massive displacement flows coming from the capital.”

The majority of new arrivals have settled in cities like Les Cayes, Jérémie and Léogâne, with more than half of Haitians interviewed saying they chose to relocate to the south because they’re originally from there. Nearly all said they planned to stay with family.

More than 70% of people who fled Port-au-Prince between March 8-20 said gang violence had already left them homeless and that they had been living with relatives or in crowded, makeshift shelters. More people are expected to leave the capital in upcoming days and weeks as gang violence continues unabated.

The Associated Press contributed to the reporting of this story.

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United States Trade Representative

United States and Kenya to Hold Fourth Negotiating Round Under the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership

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March 27, 2024

WASHINGTON – The United States and Kenya will hold a fourth in-person negotiating round under the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) in Washington, DC, from April 2-12, 2024. The United States delegation will be led by Assistant United States Trade Representative Constance Hamilton and will include representatives from several other government agencies. The Kenyan delegation will be led by Principal Secretary for Trade Alfred K’Ombudo.

The negotiators last met in person under the STIP in January 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, and have continued to make progress in deepening mutual understanding and resolving differences. Ambassador Tai also traveled to Nairobi from July 17-19, 2023, where she engaged in productive discussions with President Ruto and senior Kenyan officials on the positive feedback USTR has received from stakeholders on the STIP thus far and on the continued momentum of ongoing negotiations.

This round of negotiations will primarily cover three of the topics under the STIP: (1) agriculture, (2) workers’ rights, and (3) environment. The United States and Kenya will also continue conceptual discussions on customs and trade facilitation and on inclusivity.

These meetings will be closed press.

The United States and Kenya launched the STIP on July 14, 2022 and announced that the two governments would pursue enhanced engagement leading to high standard commitments in a wide range of areas. The goal of the Partnership is to increase investment; promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth; benefit workers, consumers, and businesses (including micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises); and support African regional economic integration. 

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Solar eclipse warnings pile up: Watch out for danger in the sky, on the ground on April 8

state department travel advisory to colombia

The upcoming solar eclipse , as exciting and fun as it promises to be, is also coming with a growing number of safety warnings — both for what will happen in the sky and what will happen on the ground.

In late March, we've heard warnings about potentially dangerous fake eclipse glasses , the possibility for increased car c rashes around the time of the eclipse and possible air travel headaches due to delayed or cancelled flights.

Safety is always a concern around solar eclipses, when millions of people will look to the sky as the moon passes in front of the sun. Looking at the spectacular event requires special glasses to prevent eye damage . Plus, tourists from around the country will be flocking to a narrow band of land from Texas to Maine — the path of totality, where the shadow of the moon will plunge the Earth into darkness.

Warning issued about fake eclipse glasses

"Counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses are polluting the marketplace," the American Astronomical Society announced in a statement in late March.

Using fake eclipse glasses – or no glasses at all – to look at the eclipse is dangerous to your eyes: Overexposure to sunlight "can cause severe eye injury, ranging from temporarily impaired vision to permanent blindness," the AAS said. They recommend buying from a vetted vendor and testing the glasses before the eclipse.

Here's how to tell if your glasses are legit.

It's also worth noting that you may be able to score a free pair of eclipse glasses .

Bad traffic and deadly traffic accidents

Traffic is predicted to be bad and potentially deadly —  especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then most will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

Experts warn the excitement could create dangerous and busy automobile traffic conditions as people pack into the small part of the country with the best view.

Roads could be especially packed at the  center of the eclipse's path  as Americans who  want the best view  crowd into cities, towns and remote areas, many without the infrastructure to handle big crowds.

In Texas, which is expected to bear the brunt of the crowds, the state's Department of Transportation is preparing highway signs that will say, “NO STOPPING ON HIGHWAY TO VIEW ECLIPSE” and “NO PARKING ON SHOULDER, KEEP MOVING.”

Crews in Texas are also pausing some road construction and maintenance work on major corridors in the path of the eclipse April 7-9, based on traffic volumes.

More: The April total solar eclipse could snarl traffic for hours across thousands of miles

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours in some areas.

Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the  study said .

Air travel also impacted

The  Federal Aviation Administration  (FAA) is offering guidance to commercial planes and private aircraft  ahead of the eclipse .

"Due to the high volume of traffic along the eclipse path, (airport) arrivals can expect lengthy delays during peak traffic periods," the FAA said.

Airports in Texas, Vermont, Maine, Canada, New Hampshire, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky and Missouri will be primarily affected by the  eclipse , the FAA said.

"The purpose of this notice is to inform airmen of the possible impacts to air traffic and airports along the eclipse path during the period April 7, 2024, (6 a.m. EST) through April 10, 2024, (midnight EST)," the FAA said.

More: What travelers should know about FAA advisory on total solar eclipse before April 8

Contributing: Jonathan Limehouse and Kayla Jimenez, USA TODAY

IMAGES

  1. U.S. Department of State

    state department travel advisory to colombia

  2. Colombia travel advice

    state department travel advisory to colombia

  3. U.S. State Department Issues Travel Advisory Update For Colombia

    state department travel advisory to colombia

  4. 2022 US state department travel advisory map for central America : MapPorn

    state department travel advisory to colombia

  5. Understanding the State Department’s updated travel advisories

    state department travel advisory to colombia

  6. Safe Travel in Colombia

    state department travel advisory to colombia

COMMENTS

  1. Colombia Travel Advisory

    Do Not Travel to: Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism. The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread.

  2. Travel Advisory: January 2, 2024

    The State Department advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution because of increased tensions around the world and the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests. ... Travel Advisory: January 2, 2024 . ... If you decide to travel to Colombia:

  3. Travel Advisory Update for Colombia

    The Department of State renewed its Travel Advisory for Colombia on October 26, 2021, which remains at Level 3 (Reconsider Travel). Reconsider travel to Colombia due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Colombia due to civil unrest, crime, terrorism and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk.

  4. Colombia

    Since June, 2021 the United States has donated 7,008,000 safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine doses with the people of Colombia. This includes 3,500,000 Moderna and 3,508,000 J&J doses. Of the 7,008,000 vaccine doses, 100% were donated through bilateral agreements. The United States is committed to leading an international and coordinated effort ...

  5. Travel Advisories

    Colombia Travel Advisory : Level 3: Reconsider Travel: January 2, 2024: Costa Rica Travel Advisory : Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution: July 17, 2023: ... You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

  6. Travel Advisory Updates

    Office of the Spokesperson. April 19, 2021. State Department Travel Advisory Updates. In order to provide U.S. travelers detailed and actionable information to make informed travel decisions, the Department of State regularly assesses and updates our Travel Advisories, based primarily on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC ...

  7. Travel to Colombia, Chile, and Peru October 3-7, 2022

    Summary. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken travels to Colombia, Chile, and Peru October 3-7, 2022. October 3-4, in Colombia, Secretary Blinken met with President Gustavo Petro, Vice President Francia Márquez, and Foreign Minister Álvaro Leyva. Secretary Blinken's meetings focused on our shared priorities of supporting strong democratic ...

  8. U.S. State Department Reissues Colombia Travel Warning

    The U.S. State Department this week reissued its advisory for travel to Colombia, again telling Americans to "reconsider" travel to the South American country due to crime and terrorism. The ...

  9. Colombia

    Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home. Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace. While at your ...

  10. Is it safe to go there? The U.S. travel advisory system, explained

    The strictest-ever advisories came in April 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, says Larsen, who did a thesis on U.S. travel warnings. At that time, about 80 percent of the world's countries were ...

  11. U.S. State Department Issues New Travel Advisory Update For Colombia

    Viktor Vincej · January 4, 2024. Safety Updates Travel News. 0 Comments 2 mins read. On January 2, 2024, the U.S. State Department renewed its travel advisory for Colombia, advising Americans to reconsider their travel plans to the country. The advisory cites concerns about crime and terrorism as the primary reasons for this caution.

  12. U.S. State Department Issues Warning Against Traveling to ...

    The State Department last week re-classified both Colombia and Jamaica as "Level 3," urging Americans to "reconsider travel" to the countries. The State Department regularly assesses the ...

  13. State Department: 'Reconsider travel' to Jamaica, Colombia

    0:00. 0:56. The State Department is urging Americans to "reconsider travel" to Jamaica and Colombia due to crime and, in Colombia's case, terrorism. The department regularly assesses risks ...

  14. U.S. State Department Issues Travel Advisory Update For Colombia

    Level 3 - Reconsider Travel to Colombia. As of May 11th, the State Department claims Colombia has seen a strong increase in violent crime throughout the country. So much so they have issued a "Do Not Travel" order to certain areas: Arauca, Cauca. Norte de Santande.

  15. State Department's travel advisory categorizes Colombia as Level Two

    8272. The U.S State Department has released its global travel advisory list and as of January 12, Colombia has been up-graded as a Level Two country, where U.S nationals must still "exercise increased caution," but are free to visit large areas of the country, formally ranked as "no-go-to" zones. Colombia joins Brazil, Belgium, Mexico ...

  16. Travel Advisory Update for Colombia

    COLOMBIA - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Reconsider travel to Colombia due to crime and COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Colombia due to civil unrest, terrorism and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Read the Department of State's COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.

  17. The Most Important Travel Advisories Announced in January

    The State Department began the new year by reissuing a Level 3 travel advisory for Colombia. Officials ask Americans to reconsider travel to the South American country due to crime and terrorism. Visitors are also advised to exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping.

  18. Security Alert: France Elevates Its Security Alert System (25 MAR 2024)

    U.S. Embassy Paris, France +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 [email protected]. U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 [email protected]. U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 [email protected]. State Department - Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444. France Country Specific ...

  19. Following 'nationwide state of emergency,' State Dept. issues travel

    STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The U.S. Department of State is urging citizens to avoid traveling to Ecuador and is currently limiting travel for U.S. personnel in the country due to civil unrest, crime ...

  20. Places Americans Should Not Travel To in 2024, According To The U ...

    The U.S. State Department regularly updates its travel advisories for over 200 countries worldwide according to several risk indicators. These risk factors include crime, social instability, and ...

  21. Congress Sends State Dept. $50 Million to Cut Visa Wait Times

    Long visa wait times cost the U.S. $12 billion in travel spending in 2023, according to U.S. Travel. To cut the backlog, the State Department has taken steps like waiving interviews for low-risk ...

  22. Cruise line stops visits to popular Caribbean resort amid U.S. travel

    This comes after the State Department urged people to not visit and implemented a Travel Advisory earlier this month. The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince told American tourists to "not travel to ...

  23. Travel Advisory: UPDATED: Changes in Inbound Travel Policy and Other

    Review the State Department's guidance on travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Colombia. Assistance U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia Tel. +57-1-275-2000 [email protected] https://co.usembassy.gov/ U.S. Consular Agency, Barranquilla [email protected]

  24. Haiti travel: What airlines, Royal Caribbean are doing amid violence

    The State Department is urging Americans not to travel to Haiti amid fresh gang violence in the country, which declared a state of emergency last week.. While neither the warnings nor violence are ...

  25. United States and Kenya to Hold Fourth Negotiating Round Under the

    Joint Update by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the Department of State, and the Department of Health and Human Services on APEC Regulatory Harmonization Steering Committee of Medical Products; U.S. Trade Representative Tai and HHS Secretary Becerra Commemorate Third Anniversary of Atlanta Spa Murders

  26. France raises terror alert warning to highest level

    A view shows the Eiffel Tower and rooftops of Paris, France, March 16, 2024. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab

  27. Assistant Secretary Noyes Travel to Colombia and Florida

    Office of the Spokesperson. March 3, 2023. Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes will travel to Colombia March 5-9. In Bogota, Medellín, and Necoclí, Assistant Secretary Noyes will meet with government officials, international organization and nongovernmental partners, as well as ...

  28. Solar eclipse warnings say traffic, eyesight at risk on April 8

    Warning issued about fake eclipse glasses "Counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses are polluting the marketplace," the American Astronomical Society announced in a statement in late March.. Using ...

  29. March 20, 2024

    ***THE DAILY PUBLIC SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE*** SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN. Secretary Blinken is on travel to Austria, Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt from March 14-22, 2024. 9:00 p.m. LOCAL Secretary Blinken meets with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (POOLED CAMERA SPRAY AT TOP) 10:35 p.m. LOCAL Secretary Blinken meets ...