Travel alert: Rethink visiting this tropical country due to its kidnapping risk
American thinking of visiting Colombia should reconsider their travel plans, the U.S. Department of State advised on Thursday . The risk of encountering crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping is high in many parts of the country.
The state department updated its travel advisory guide to advise American not to travel to the Colombia-Venezuela border region for any reason. This region has been the site of violent conflict between rival revolutionary guerrilla fighters in recent months.
The risk of becoming a victim of crime, kidnapping, armed conflict or detention while there is high, according to the state department. Due to these risks, the U.S. government's ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens visiting the region is limited.
The state department also advises Americans not to travel to the Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán) and Norte de Santander departments for any reason due to the high risk of encountering crime and terrorism there.
"Violent crime, like murder, assault, and robbery, is common in many areas in Colombia. In some places, organized crime is rampant. This includes extortion, robbery, and kidnapping," the advisory reads.
Terrorists and criminal organizations in Colombia may attack with little or no warning, according to the state department. They often target U.S. or local government facilities, tourist areas and attractions, transportation centers, shopping malls, markets, military and police facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants and airports, the state department said.
Additionally, political demonstrations are common throughout Colombia, according to the state department. They can shut down roadways without notice, limit access to public transportation, interrupt travel within and between cities and become violent enough to cause injury and death, according to the state department.
If you decide to travel to Colombia:
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Visit the state department's website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
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Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
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Check local media for breaking news
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Be prepared to adjust your travel plans.
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Keep a low profile.
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Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
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Stay aware of your surroundings.
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Travel only during daylight hours.
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Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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Review the Country Security Report for Colombia.
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Make a plan for emergency situations.
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Review the state department's Traveler's Checklist .
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Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel
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Buy travel insurance prior to visiting.
