I'm going to Colombia on a mission trip through my school. Is it safe for me to go? Do you have any tips?

Question

We're going to be in Bogota for a week, in Baranquilla and Girardot for a week, and then along the coast (like Santa Marta) for a week.

I've heard a lot of pretty bad things and also some good things, but I want to get some more opinions.

Answer 1

Bogota, Barranquilla, Santa Marta and Giradot are all safe.. Just dont be stupid. Dont dress flashy. Dont show a lot of cash (Most US ATM cards work there except at servi-banc, which sucks) Dont criticize how hot it is in Giradot.. Instead take a boat ride on the Magdalena.. See the beer company pump its water (Its a nasty gray) into the fabrica. Tons of things to do. Dont be pushy with your religion.

Answer 2

Stay in the cities, and stay out of the roads.  If you need to get from one part of the country to the other, fly, don't drive.  With the recent success of the Colombian army, and given the animosity between the native american population there, and the white controlled government, Colombian kidnappers will likely become worse than before.  Stay out of the highways, and do not listen to the locals who are in denial about the condition of the country, and have been in denial for a long time, too blinded by excessive pride and patriotism.

Answer 3

well....  you have to follow the advise... "no dar papaya" don`t give papaya, that means, don`t carry expensive stuff... that`s it... colombia is an amazing country... you will love it.... also your tour is great...