## Is Colombia a Dangerous Place to Visit?
Colombia has a reputation for being a dangerous country, but is it really? In recent years, the country has made significant progress in reducing crime rates, and it is now much safer than it was just a few decades ago. However, there are still some areas of the country that are best avoided, and it is important to be aware of the risks before traveling to Colombia.
### Overall Safety
According to the 2022 Global Peace Index, Colombia is ranked 143rd out of 163 countries in terms of safety. This is a significant improvement from 2018, when Colombia was ranked 154th. The country has made progress in reducing crime rates in recent years, and it is now much safer than it was just a few decades ago. However, there are still some areas of the country that are best avoided, and it is important to be aware of the risks before traveling to Colombia.
### Crime Rates
Colombia’s crime rates have been declining in recent years. In 2021, the country’s homicide rate was 26.8 per 100,000 people, down from 32.3 per 100,000 people in 2020. Other types of crime, such as robbery and theft, have also declined in recent years.
However, there are still some areas of the country that are more dangerous than others. The Pacific coast region, which includes the cities of Cali and Buenaventura, has a higher crime rate than the rest of the country. The eastern plains region, which borders Venezuela, is also known for its high crime rate.
### Safety Tips for Travelers
If you are planning to travel to Colombia, there are a few things you can do to stay safe:
Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the people and things around you, and be aware of any potential threats.
Avoid walking alone at night. If you are going out at night, try to travel with a friend or group.
Be careful when using ATMs. Use ATMs that are located in well-lit areas, and be aware of anyone who may be watching you.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash. Only carry the cash that you need, and keep it in a safe place.
Be careful when drinking alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can make you more vulnerable to crime.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to leave a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable.
### Conclusion
Colombia is a beautiful country with a lot to offer travelers. However, it is important to be aware of the risks before traveling to Colombia. By following the safety tips above, you can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.
### Additional Resources
[Colombia Travel Advisory](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/colombia-travel-advisory.html)
[Colombia Safety and Crime](https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/south-america/colombia/safety)
[Colombia Safety Guide](https://www.colombia.com/en/colombia-travel-safety-guide/)