The U.S. State Department issued a stark warning for travelers to Colombia this week, elevating security concerns in several regions of the South American nation. Although maintaining a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory for the country the agency designated four departments as “Do Not Travel” zones due to escalating risks of crime, terrorism and kidnapping. The move underscores a complex security landscape in peripheral areas of Colombia, where illegal armed groups and illicit economies are increasingly destabilizing public order.
The updated travel advisory, released on March 31, 2026, aims to protect U.S. Citizens abroad, but also highlights the challenges facing the Colombian government in extending security and governance to all parts of the country. The decision comes as the Petro administration seeks to boost tourism and foreign investment, a goal complicated by ongoing security concerns in key regions. The State Department’s assessment reflects a growing concern over the activities of various armed groups, including remnants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and other criminal organizations.
Four Departments Under ‘Do Not Travel’ Advisory
The four departments now under the highest level of travel warning are Arauca, Cauca (with the exception of the city of Popayán), Chocó (excluding the municipalities of Nuquí, Bahía Solano, and Capurganá), and Norte de Santander. Each region faces distinct but overlapping security threats.
- Arauca: The State Department cites the strong presence of dissident FARC groups and other guerrillas engaged in constant clashes for territorial control as the primary risk. The full advisory details ongoing confrontations between these groups, impacting civilian safety.
- Cauca (excluding Popayán): The advisory highlights the risk of armed violence and frequent disruptions to public order in rural areas. The department borders areas with significant coca cultivation, contributing to the presence of armed groups vying for control of drug trafficking routes.
- Chocó (excluding Nuquí, Bahía Solano and Capurganá): The State Department warns that common crime and armed groups operate with relative impunity throughout much of the territory. Chocó’s remote and heavily forested terrain makes it demanding for security forces to maintain a consistent presence.
- Norte de Santander: The border region’s proximity to Venezuela and the activities of organized criminal groups have made it a critical insecurity hotspot. The department is a key transit point for illicit goods and migrants, attracting criminal activity.
EE.UU. Recomienda a sus viajeros no ir a la frontera con Venezuela en Colombia. Foto:Andrés Carvajal
Increased Crime and Limited U.S. Government Assistance
The State Department report details a prevalence of violent crimes, including homicide, assault, and kidnapping, in these designated areas. It also warns of the potential for terrorist attacks in public places, government facilities, and tourist sites without prior warning. This assessment reflects a broader trend of increasing violence in certain regions of Colombia, despite ongoing peace negotiations and security initiatives.
A critical component of the advisory is the limited capacity of the U.S. Government to provide emergency services to its citizens in these regions. Embassy personnel face severe restrictions on mobility, hindering consular assistance in cases of arrest, accident, or medical crisis. This limitation underscores the heightened risk for U.S. Travelers venturing into these areas.
Travel Recommendations and Ongoing Concerns
Despite the severity of the “Do Not Travel” advisory for these four departments, the State Department acknowledges that major destinations like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena operate under standard precautionary measures. Still, visitors are still urged to remain vigilant in crowded areas. The agency recommends that anyone traveling to Colombia enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive local alerts and facilitate contact in case of emergency.
For those who choose to travel to Colombia, the State Department recommends avoiding walking alone at night, not displaying signs of wealth, and having a contingency plan in place, keeping family members informed of their location. These precautions are standard travel safety advice, but are particularly crucial given the elevated risks in certain parts of the country.
Riqueza natural en Bahía Solano Foto:JuanM Pesca
The new warning complicates the Petro government’s efforts to attract foreign travelers, highlighting that while major cities have improved, insecurity in various zones remains a critical unresolved challenge. The administration has been working to implement peace talks with remaining armed groups and strengthen security forces, but progress has been uneven. The State Department’s advisory serves as a reminder of the ongoing security risks and the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of violence in Colombia.
The State Department is expected to provide an updated assessment of the security situation in Colombia in three months, following a review of ongoing security operations and peace negotiations. Travelers are encouraged to consult the State Department’s website for the latest information and advisories before planning any trips to Colombia.
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