How Safe Is Medellin for Travel?

Medellin is the second biggest and most populous city in Colombia with 3 million people, located in the region of the Andes Mountains in South America.

It is very well known for its festivals that tourists can experience throughout the year if they decide to come to Medellin.

The Festival of the Flowers, the Christmas lighting, the International Poetry Festival, and the Jazz Festival are just some of them.

The must-see sights in Medellin are the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Junin pedestrian street from the Coltejer Building to Bolivar Park, Museo de Antioquia, and Parque Berrío.

This beautiful city has many things to offer in terms of culture, architecture, and entertainment.

Warnings & Dangers in Medellin

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

The overall risk in Medellin is at the medium level since it is a city where both petty and violent crime acts can sometimes happen against tourists. To remain safe here and minimize the risk of trouble, you should perform activities during the daytime, avoid walking alone, call taxis by phone and do not show electronic devices, credit cards or money in public.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

The best advice in terms of taxis is to call them from your accommodation and always ask the driver to turn on the taxi meter. Driving in Medellin is horrific, so avoid driving your car. If you are a pedestrian, do not rely on traffic signs, since they are not respected. Remain very watchful when crossing the street, even on the marked pedestrian crossings.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH

Even though Medellin is considered a safe city for tourism, the crime rate does not support that fact. Petty crime is a serious problem and the theft of wallets, electronic gadgets and passports are increasing. Tourist sites are full of the police, so you can feel safe there, but try to avoid parks El Poblado and Laureles.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Flooding, landslides, and earthquakes are common natural disasters in Medellin. In case you happen to be there during any of these disasters, follow the advice of the local authorities.

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Violent crime against tourists is not very common in Medellin, but it is important to avoid Comuna 13, Parque Lleras, Parque de las Luces, Parque San Antonio, Parque Periodista, Prado, Barrio Trinidad, and La Sierra especially after dark. Mugging strategies are at a high level and the process lasts a few seconds. It happens everywhere, at any hour, and if you happen to be the victim, just give them what they want. There is no point in arguing or defeating since that can make you more trouble.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

Recent reports show that organized crime, related to the Medellín Cartel, a highly organized drug cartel in Colombia, has occurred repeatedly as a consequence of the fight against them. Tourists are not the direct targets but may be victims in case they find themselves at the place of the attack.

SCAMS RISK : HIGH

The possible problems travelers can encounter here is the counterfeit money, so they should always exchange it at the airport or in a bank. Do not exchange money on the street even if they offer you a better rate. As in any other huge city, taxi drivers take advantage of tourists, thieves transform themselves into police officers and credit card skimming is frequent.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Since many women who visited Medellin had no issues, it is considered a quite safe city. Verbal harassment, like cat-calling or whistling, is frequent, but women just need to remain polite if this happens. They should be careful when on bus stations and in taxis, especially at night.

So... How Safe Is Medellin Really?

This city is the economic and business center and a place full of shopping malls and skyscrapers.

Tourists are attracted by its culture, museums, and architecture.

While exploring the city’s landmarks, they need to be aware that the huge wandering population decreases after dark, and leaves dangerous streets susceptible to thieves and lawbreakers.

In case you are a vigilant and watchful person, who manifests self-esteem, there is no reason to worry about your well-being and you can enjoy your holiday in Medellin.

How Does Medellin Compare?

Useful Information

• Visas - For most nationalities, a visa is not necessary when coming to Colombia, as a tourist and stay less than 90 days. On the other hand, there are countries whose citizens need to acquire a visa before they enter Colombia. Your passport must be valid during your stay here.
• Currency - The local currency is the Colombian Peso and it is advisable to exchange your money since US dollars and Euros are rarely accepted. Credit cards are used here, but not to that extent as in other more developed countries. In case you need to use an ATM, those found in a shopping mall or large superstores are more secure than those on the street because there is a risk that somebody will rob you.
• Weather - The 'City of everlasting spring' is the nickname for Medellin due to its climate. The weather is quite mild with an average temperature that ranges from 15 to 30 degrees C. Humidity is comfortable and cool air comes from the mountains surrounding Medellin. This provides Medellin with the perfect climate.
• Airports - José María Córdova International Airport located in Rionegro is the airport that is used when coming to Medellin. Other airports which can be used as an alternative if you decide to come to Colombia are El Dorado International Airport, José María Córdova International Airport, and Rafael Núñez International Airport with non-stop flights to many places.
• Travel Insurance - Colombia is a country where accidents can happen, in terms of luggage lost or theft, so what you need to have when coming here is travel insurance that will cover not only medical problems but any kind of loss of personal belongings.

Medellin Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature