Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Colombia...
Terrorism
We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Colombia at this time, with the exception of the major cities of Bogot, Medellin, Barranquilla and Cartagena, because of the very high threat of terrorism and criminal activity. Ask yourself whether, given your own personal circumstances, you are comfortable travelling to Colombia at this time knowing that you could be caught up in a terrorist attack or criminal activity. Ask yourself whether travel could be deferred or an alternative destination chosen..
We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Bogot, Medellin, Barranquilla and Cartagena. If you decide to travel to other parts of Colombia, you should exercise extreme caution.
Terrorist, insurgent and paramilitary groups (including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - FARC, and the National Liberation Army - ELN) are active throughout Colombia. Armed clashes between security forces, these groups and drug traffickers occur regularly.
Colombia has one of the highest rates of kidnappings in the world. Most kidnappings are for ransom, and are often perpetrated by groups such as the FARC and ELN in rural areas. A significant and growing number of kidnappings occur in major cities. Foreigners, including children, have been kidnapped and murdered.
Terrorist attacks can occur at any time. Several explosions occurred in the Zona Rosa and Parque 93 areas of Bogot in November 2003. In planning your activities, consider the types of places that are known to be terrorist targets. These include nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, bars and shopping centres as well as infrastructure associated with the government such as public buildings, public transport, airports and sea ports. Commercial interests of multinational companies may also be targeted.
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
The potential for civil disturbance is low, but demonstrations take place from time to time, particularly on the anniversary of the 11 September 1973 coup. You should avoid demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent.
Crime
Violent crime, including robbery, is common. You should take particular care when travelling alone, using automatic teller machines (ATMs), or travelling in or near tugurios (slum areas). Criminals posing as police officers have robbed foreigners.
The number of 'express kidnappings', where victims are abducted and forced to withdraw funds from ATMs before being released, has increased. Victims have been killed or injured while resisting perpetrators.
Foreigners have been robbed and assaulted after accepting 'spiked' food, drinks, cigarettes, or chewing gum.
Travellers have been assaulted and robbed after being sprayed by aerosols containing incapacitating chemicals.
Petty crime, such as pick pocketing and bag-snatching, occurs in Colombia, particularly at the airport in Bogot and near hotels.
Local Travel
There is a risk of kidnapping when travelling by road, including to rural tourist destinations such as Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City). We recommend travel by air between major cities to reduce the risk of kidnapping.
Natural Disasters
Colombia is located in an active seismic zone and is subject to volcanic eruptions. The Galeras Volcano in Narino Department erupted in November 2005. Hikers and trekkers should seek current advice on recent volcanic activity from local authorities.
Coastal areas of Colombia are subject to hurricanes. Flooding and mudslides may result. Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Colombia are severe and include lengthy imprisonment in local jails.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions change regularly. For up-to-date visa information, Australians should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Colombia well in advance of travel.
Colombia is listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as endemic for yellow fever. Airlines require passengers to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate before being allowed to board flights out of the country. If in doubt, check with your airline.
For children travelling alone or with one parent, Colombian law requires a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent(s) authorising travel and a copy of the child's birth certificate. Both documents must be translated into Spanish and notarised and certified by the Colombian Embassy or Consulate in Australia. These documents may be requested by airline staff or immigration officials.
If you have visited Colombia in the last six days prior to your date of return to Australia, Australian Customs officials will ask you to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate on entry into Australia.
If you are travelling to Colombia through the United States of America (USA), including if you are transiting in Honolulu or other USA cities, you will need to meet USA entry/transit requirements. Check your visa needs well in advance of travel with the nearest American Embassy or Consulate. Also check our travel advice for the United States.
Health Issues
Most doctors and hospitals require cash payment prior to providing services, including emergency care. Medical emergencies may require evacuation to a third country, including to the USA, where the cost of medical treatment is very high.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations
and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful
tips for staying healthy while travelling overseas.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
If you're gonna travel abroad, make sure you are prepared... take it from us, travel insurance is an absolute must!
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