Tourist Scams in Colombia — Safety Guide 2026
Colombia has 32+ documented tourist scams across 3 cities in our database. Scam activity is rated high. The most common risks are street scams, other scams, money & atm scams.
Overall risk
High
Scams documented
32+
Cities covered
3
High severity
22
All 3 covered cities in Colombia
Most common scam types in Colombia
Street Scams
11 reports
Other Scams
7 reports
Money & ATM Scams
4 reports
Taxi & Transport
3 reports
Colombia travel safety questions
Is Colombia safe for tourists?
Colombia is visited by millions of tourists every year and is generally safe with preparation. Our database documents 32+ tourist scams across 3 cities in Colombia. Scam activity is rated high overall. The most common risks are street scams, other scams, money & atm scams scams. Reviewing the specific warnings for your destination before you travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in Colombia?
The most frequently documented tourist scams in Colombia are Street Scams, Other Scams, Money & ATM Scams, Taxi & Transport. Bogotá has the highest documented scam count with 11 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which city in Colombia has the most tourist scams?
Bogotá has the highest number of documented tourist scams in Colombia with 11 recorded incidents in our database. Other cities with significant scam activity include Medellín and Cartagena.
How can I stay safe from scams in Colombia?
The most effective protection in Colombia is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention from strangers near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each city you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for Colombia are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
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