Is Bogota Colombia Safe? Guide To A Safe Travel in 2025

Is Bogota Colombia safe? If you plan to travel to Colombia and consider swinging by this city, this is the one question you would ask. Here are some travel safety tips to remember if you visit one of the cities in a South American country.

If you are fond of arts, history, and culture, your travel itinerary to the Republic of Colombia won’t be complete without a trip to Bogotá. However, the temptation to view the scenic sights or explore the numerous museums and galleries can drown under worries over your safety as a traveler.

Colombia has a notorious past: internal armed conflict, drug trafficking, terrorism, homicides, access to weapons, and violent crimes, but the country has come a long way since then. It has progressed on the socio-political and economic front as the Colombian government has strived to restore peace. Still, its past reputation lingers, so the world remains apprehensive about safety issues. 

Like other tourists, you may be concerned about how safe the Colombian capital is and wondering if visiting the city during your South American trip is the right decision. Continue reading this article to learn how safe Bogotá is and what safety aspects you need to consider when visiting.

Safety in Bogotá Colombia

While Colombia still ranks very low on the Global Peace Index, tourism flourishes. The country is rapidly gaining popularity as the most attractive tourist destination in South America. 

With tourism growing at a phenomenal pace, Bogotá seems to be receiving the biggest share. You may be surprised to know that Bogotá alone accounts for 56% of the tourism in Colombia. The percentage alone is sufficient to establish that the majority perceives Bogotá as a fairly safe city from a tourist point of view. 

At the same time, we cannot say that visitors are not exposed to harm. Although the city has a lower crime rate than Indianapolis, as a foreigner, you must always be careful and alert and take the necessary precautions in all instances. 

Petty crimes like robberies, mugging, or pickpocketing are common, so it is important to safeguard your travel documents and belongings. Put them in a safe place, preferably in your accommodation. Do not go out with your passport; keep a copy with you if necessary. 

Similarly, tricksters often resort to spiking the drinks of naive tourists, increasing the risk of scams and robbery. While the city has its tourist police, you must practice caution as there is always the risk of the police engaging in extortion.

Various areas in the city are not considered secure, so we will be providing detailed travel tips on how you can explore the beautiful city of Bogotá and stay safe.

What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Bogotá, Colombia?

While traveling to another country or city, it is important to research which areas would be safe to stay in. The city is also prone to strikes and protests, which you want to avoid as a tourist. 

Therefore, you need to steer away from such places and be aware of which areas of the city you must avoid and which areas are considered the safest neighborhoods.

Which Areas to Avoid

Generally, Bogotá’s east and north regions are considered safe for tourists. However, as you move towards the south, the area becomes riskier. 

Here are some areas you need to avoid.

Ciudad Bolívar

The Ciudad Bolívar residential area is also located towards the south and is considered to be an unsafe area for tourists. Robbery and petty thefts are common, and the area is also prone to flooding post torrential rains during the rainy season. So, if you want to avoid the risk and inconvenience, stay away from this region.

La Candelaria

Although it is the city center and features most of the city’s tourist attractions, it is also notorious for crimes and pickpocketing. If you are in La Candelaria, be wary of your surroundings and take care of your possessions, especially in crowded places. It is better to leave valuables safely locked where you are staying.

San Cristobal 

San Cristobal is also known for crimes, so if you want to explore the area, move with the company and opt for guided tours when you can.

Calle 9 

It is also advised to avoid the street of Calle 9 as muggers are lurking around, keeping an eye out for naive travelers. Another similar area we recommend avoiding is the southern part of Barrio Egipto.

It is also important to consider that there is safety in numbers, especially when venturing out at night. An area that seems friendly during the day can turn hostile at night, so it is better to move around in groups.

Let’s look at some of the best neighborhoods in Bogotá regarding safety.

Safest Places in Bogotá

Teusaquillo

If you are visiting Bogotá for the first time, Teusaquillo is highly recommended. Not only is it quite safe and tranquil, but it is also centrally located, enabling easy access to the other regions. 

The area is home to a beautiful botanical garden and the biggest public park in Bogotá, Simon Bolívar Park. You can stroll around or spend a peaceful afternoon in the garden, and if you are in the mood to explore, Tuesaquillo serves as the ideal base to explore the rest of the city.

Zona Rosa

The Zona Rosa region in Bogotá is popular for its vibrant and exciting nightlife. Numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs offer great food and drinks with music and dancing. While the region comes alive at night, police are present to ensure the safety of the tourists at all times, and you can party away without any major safety concerns.

You will find most tourists and locals in Zona T, the pedestrian-friendly area of Zona Rosa. The Zona T offers the best options if you want a wild night out and enjoy the nightlife in Colombia. 

Moreover, the area also features two of the biggest malls in Colombia, Atlantis, and Adino. So, if you are in the mood for some shopping, you know where to go.

Chapinero

The next neighborhood we recommend for staying in Bogotá is Chapinero. This centrally located area is diverse, trendy, and safe, and most ex-pats prefer to stay here. You can set your base here and explore other parts of the city. You will find an incredible mix of people moving around Chapinero and feel at home. 

You can get great tourism advice and important insights by seeking the perspective of the ex-pats residing in the area. Chapinero is home to plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants, clubs, and theaters, so you will not be short of options even if you explore the nearby sights. 

Is Bogotá, Colombia Safe for Solo Travelers?

Rest assured, Bogotá is completely safe for solo travelers as long as you’re alert and ready at all times.

Many tourists like to travel alone as they enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with flying solo. You are the manager of your time and can go anywhere you like. You may also enjoy exploring new places, developing your own perspectives, and meeting new people. 

The downside is that you have no one to rely on, so you need to exercise caution. 

Since safety is always an important concern when you visit Colombia, we have provided helpful tips to make your journey easier as a solo traveler. 

• We have mentioned the safest neighborhoods in the previous section. So, before deciding where to stay, do a bit of research to understand the security situation and choose the best possible location from a safety point of view.
• Take care of your personal possessions, particularly your wallet, cell phone, and passports, and stick to safe areas, especially at night. Keep a credit card safely tucked away for emergency purposes.
• Learn your way around the area you are staying in so you know how to get back to your lodgings; otherwise, you can always take a cab. 
• Get information from locals. The people working at the hotels and hostels know exactly how you can explore while staying safe. Be updated on current travel advisories and area alerts, if available.
• Although you are traveling alone, make it a point to interact with the people at your hostel or hotel and socialize when possible so you have a safety net.
• Keep your emergency contacts listed on your phone as priority numbers, so they can be contacted if something happens to you. 

Tips to Stay Safe in Bogotá Colombia

Bogotá has so much to offer regarding tourist attractions, and the associated safety concerns should not deter you from visiting the city. So, if you want to visit Bogotá and explore it while staying safe, here are some useful tips.

• Choose a safe area to stay in and ensure that your hostel offers sufficient security.
• Avoid venturing out into deserted areas or parts considered unsafe for tourists. Always walk in well-lit places.
• Try to blend in and avoid standing out. Do not flaunt your expensive accessories. These items will only make you an easy target.
• Avoid using your smartphone in public. Keep some cash in a wallet in your pocket and keep the rest in a pouch attached to your belt.
• Do not resist and hand over what they ask if you encounter robbers. You never know when they may get violent.
• Keep a colored copy of your passport with you and keep the original one in the locker where you are staying.
• Try to use an ATM only in places like malls and banks. Do not use external ATMs at night.
• Do not leave your food unattended, especially when traveling alone. Someone might take advantage of your absence and try to drug you.
• Learn your way around the city and navigate the routes to avoid getting lost. For your trip, it is always a good idea to learn a little of the local language, in this case, Spanish.
• Avoid getting involved with drugs or other bad activities as they may land you in trouble.

Stay Safe on The Road

Concerned about the possibility of illness, scams, robbery, and cancellations while traveling? It’s crucial to get travel insurance to ensure that if an unfortunate event does occur, you can cover your losses. I always have travel insurance whenever I leave home.

For digital nomads and long-term travelers, SafetyWing provides convenient and cost-effective plans that are tailored to their specific needs. With their budget-friendly monthly plans, excellent customer service, and user-friendly claims process, it’s an ideal solution for individuals on the move.

To get a quote right away, utilize the widget provided below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Is Bogotá Colombia Safe? 

Is It Safe to Visit Bogotá, Colombia?

Bogotá is the safest city in Latin America, and you can visit it while being cautious and taking the required preventive measures.

Which Neighborhood Is the Safest in Bogotá, Colombia?

The regions including Zona Rosa, Chapinero, and Teusaquillo are considered the safest neighborhoods in Bogotá, Colombia.

Is Bogotá Colombia Safe at Night?

It is better to exercise extra caution at night and avoid going out alone as Bogotá becomes relatively less safe at night.

Is Bogotá Colombia Safe For Solo Travelers?

Yes, Bogotá is safe for solo travelers, provided you are careful and take care to adhere to all safety tips provided in the article.

Conclusion – Is Bogotá Colombia Safe? 

Yes, Bogota is fairly safe despite its infamous security history. It is actually considered the safest city on the South American continent.

As traveling goes, it always pays to be cautious and mindful of your surroundings, especially in a foreign country where language can be a barrier and unfamiliar culture can, sometimes, blindside you. Do your research and plan your itinerary sensibly. 

Remember, basic precautions apply, but don’t let safety consciousness take the fun out of your Bogota experience. Have a fun and safe trip!

---

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

Related Reads:

• 30+ Things to Do in Medellin Colombia
• Is Cali Colombia Safe?
• 30+ Things to Do in Cali Colombia