How Secure Is Medellin, Colombia?

When considering a trip to Medellin, Colombia, the first question that comes to mind for many people is: How safe is it? After all, Colombia has had a reputation for being one of the most dangerous countries in the world for a long time. However, in recent years, Medellin has seen a surge in popularity amongst tourists and expats for its culture and hospitality. The answer to the question of security in Medellin isn’t straightforward, as the city has certainly seen an improvement in its security over the past few years. However, it’s important to remember that it’s still considered a risky place and crime is still present. There are still areas of Medellin to be cautious of, especially at night, but there are also areas that are generally considered safe. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know before visiting and evaluating how secure Medellin is.

Crime Rate Right Now in Medellin

The crime rate in Medellin has been decreasing since the 1990s. The crime rate of murder and assaults has dropped by over 95% in the last 35 years, and homicides have dropped by 80%. Currently, the crime rate in Medellin can be broken down into five categories: pickpocketing, home burglaries, commercial robberies, express kidnappings, and car theft. Pickpocketing and home burglaries are the most common crimes in Medellin and are concentrated in areas with high concentrations of tourists and expats. Express kidnappings are also a risk, as criminals target victims in public transportation or taxis. Commercial robberies occur on businesses or ATMs, while car theft is a risk around the city. The best way to evaluate the security of a destination is to get a firsthand look from people from all walks of life who already live there. According to a firsthand survey, most expats in Medellin feel relatively safe in the city. Despite reported crimes in the city, 73% feel “very safe” in the city during the day and 33% say they feel “very safe” during the night.

Areas to Avoid in Medellin

Even though crime has decreased over the years, there are still certain areas to avoid in Medellin. It is generally recommended to stay away from Downtown Medellin and El Centro. These are mostly commercial areas with many tourist attractions so they can attract pickpocketers and opportunists preying on tourists who don’t know better. Avoiding walking through El Centro at night is also recommended. The Comuna 13 slum is an area that should be avoided. Although it has seen an improvement in recent years and has become an attraction for its cultural expression and touristic aspects, it is still considered one of the most dangerous areas in the city. Walking around this area alone at night is highly discouraged. Other areas to avoid include BajoCauca, Ciudad Bolívar, San Cristóbal, La Nuevaurelia, the industrial area of Manrique Jorge Eliézer Gaitán, and La Macarena.

Staying Safe During Your Trip to Medellin

Even though certain areas in Medellin come with certain risks, there are many measures you can take to stay safe during your trip: • Be aware of your environment at all times. Keep your belongings close to you, especially your phone and wallet (preferably inside a money belt). • Avoid carrying large sums of cash and only take enough money for your daily needs. You should also leave important documents (like your passport) back at your hotel or hostel instead of carrying them around. • Dress down and try to blend in as much as you can. Leave flashy jewelry at home and try to be as inconspicuous as possible when exploring the streets of Medellin. • Don’t walk around alone at night and do your best to avoid some of the most dangerous areas mentioned above (especially Comuna 13). If you can, try to travel with someone else. Taking these precautions can help mitigate your chances of becoming a victim of crime in Medellin.

Conclusion

Overall, Medellin has seen an improvement in security over the past few years due to increased police presence and stricter punishments for criminals. The crime rate is nothing close to what it used to be 35 years ago, however tourists and expats should still take caution when visiting or living in Medellin. By being aware of your environment, avoiding dangerous areas, dressing down, and taking security measures like leave valuables behind at accommodations or using a money belt, anyone can enjoy their visit to Medellin without having to worry about safety issues.