Colombia welcomed over 6 million international visitors in 2024, while Peru’s Cusco region alone received 3.2 million tourists, yet the U.S. State Department rates both countries at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) with specific warnings about pickpocketing, express kidnapping, and street robbery in major cities. Both countries offer extraordinary travel experiences, and with informed precautions, you can explore them safely.
I have backpacked through both Colombia and Peru extensively, from the graffiti-covered streets of Bogota’s La Candelaria to the altitude-pounding trails above Cusco. The security situation in both countries has improved dramatically, but they still require more awareness than European destinations. This guide covers the real risks and exactly how to manage them.
Bogota, Colombia: Neighborhood-by-Neighborhood Safety
Bogota is a city of extreme contrasts. The affluent northern neighborhoods of Usaquen, Zona Rosa (Zona T), and Chapinero Alto are as safe as any Western European city. The southern and central neighborhoods carry significantly higher risk.
Safe Areas
- Usaquen: Upscale dining, boutique shopping, Sunday flea market. Low crime.
- Zona Rosa / Zona T: Bogota’s main nightlife and shopping district. Well-policed, well-lit.
- Chapinero Alto: Trendy restaurants, craft beer bars, and the Parque de la 93 area.
- La Candelaria (north of Calle 10): Historic center with museums, the Gold Museum, and Botero Museum. Safe during daytime hours.
Areas to Avoid
- Santa Fe and Los Martires: High crime, drug activity. No tourist reason to visit.
- La Candelaria south of Calle 7: Transitions rapidly into unsafe territory, especially after dark.
- Bosa, Ciudad Bolivar, Soacha: Southern periphery with elevated crime. No tourist attractions.
TransMilenio (Bus Rapid Transit)
Bogota’s TransMilenio bus system carries over 2.4 million passengers daily, and the crowded stations and carriages at rush hour are prime pickpocket territory. The Portal del Norte, Calle 72, and Heroes stations see the most reports. Keep your bag in front of you, your phone in a deep pocket, and your cash and passport in a money belt.
Express Kidnapping Awareness
The “paseo millonario” (millionaire’s ride) is a form of express kidnapping where victims are forced to withdraw cash from ATMs over several hours. While this has decreased dramatically and primarily affects locals, the U.S. Embassy still issues periodic warnings. Use ATMs inside bank branches during business hours, use Uber or Didi instead of hailing taxis on the street, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods after dark.
Medellin, Colombia: The Transformation City
Medellin has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now one of Colombia’s most visited cities. The Poblado neighborhood, where most tourists stay, is well-policed and vibrant. The Laureles neighborhood is a popular alternative with a more local feel.
Risks in Medellin center on the downtown core (Centro), particularly around Parque Berrio, Parque de los Deseos, and the Prado neighborhood after dark. Phone snatching by motorbike riders occurs on the streets connecting Poblado to Centro.
Medellin safety tips:
- Stay in Poblado or Laureles for accommodation
- Use the Metro de Medellin (one of the safest in Latin America) but watch for pickpockets on crowded trains
- Do not display expensive phones, watches, or jewelry on the street
- Keep your passport and main cash in a money belt; carry only what you need for the day
Lima, Peru: The Capital’s Two Faces
Lima is a sprawling city of 10 million people. The tourist districts of Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro are safe, well-maintained, and heavily patrolled. The historic center (Centro de Lima) around the Plaza Mayor is safe during the day but deteriorates quickly after dark.
The main risks in Lima:
- Taxi scams: Unlicensed taxis are common. Use Uber, InDriver, or official taxi company apps. Never hail a random cab on the street.
- Combi buses: Lima’s chaotic minibuses (combis) are cheap but prone to pickpocketing. The Metropolitano BRT is safer.
- Callao district: The port neighborhood adjacent to the airport. Do not walk between the airport and the city; take a registered taxi or Uber.
Cusco, Peru: Altitude and Awareness
Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) and the altitude hits hard. While you are adjusting to the thin air and fighting headaches, your situational awareness drops — and pickpockets know it.
The Plaza de Armas is Cusco’s main square and tourist hub. It is generally safe during the day, but theft increases significantly during festivals (especially Inti Raymi in June and Corpus Christi). The San Blas neighborhood, a steep cobblestone area above the Plaza, sees opportunistic theft on its quiet, narrow streets.
The walk to the Sacsayhuaman ruins above the city passes through increasingly isolated areas. Do not walk this route alone, especially in the late afternoon. Muggings have been reported on the trail.
Cusco essentials:
- Use a neck wallet under your layers (you will be wearing layers at this altitude)
- Keep a photocopy of your passport and carry the original in a money belt
- Never walk alone after dark outside the main restaurant/bar areas
- Read our guide on how to keep your money safe while traveling
Essential Gear for South America
- Money belt: Critical for buses, crowded markets, and overnight travel
- Neck wallet: Easier to access than a money belt, ideal for daily use in Cusco and Lima
- RFID sleeves: Protect your cards at ATMs and in crowded transit
Shop all travel security accessories at Alpha Keeper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colombia safe for tourists in 2026?
Colombia has made dramatic safety improvements and welcomes over 6 million visitors annually. Tourist areas in Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena are well-policed. However, petty theft remains common, and certain neighborhoods should be avoided after dark. An Alpha Keeper money belt is essential for carrying cash and documents.
What is express kidnapping in Colombia?
Express kidnapping (paseo millonario) involves forcing a victim to withdraw cash from ATMs over several hours. While rare for tourists, it still occurs in certain Bogota neighborhoods. Use ATMs inside banks during business hours and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Is Cusco safe for backpackers?
Cusco is generally safe for backpackers during the day. The Plaza de Armas, San Blas neighborhood, and the route to Sacsayhuaman are the main areas where theft occurs. Keep valuables in an Alpha Keeper money belt, especially during festivals.
What areas should I avoid in Bogota?
Avoid the neighborhoods of Santa Fe, Los Martires, and parts of La Candelaria south of Calle 7 after dark. The TransMilenio bus system at rush hour is a pickpocket hotspot. Stick to the Zona Rosa, Usaquen, and Chapinero Alto for nightlife.
Is it safe to take buses in Peru?
Reputable bus companies (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, TEPSA) are safe for long-distance travel. Avoid unlicensed budget operators. On city buses in Lima, keep your bag on your lap and your phone in a secure pocket.
Should I carry my passport in Colombia and Peru?
Both countries require foreigners to carry identification. Carry a color photocopy and keep the original locked in your hotel safe or hidden in a money belt under your clothes.