{ "schema_version": "1.0", "generated_at": "2026-04-30T20:16:06.668369", "generator": { "function": "get_record_to_research", "version": "2026-04-30-v93-fix-meta-desc-regex", "template": "do_not_travel_advisory", "article_tone": "official_advisory", "additional_search": "7", "research_quality": "full" }, "geonameid": "3687925", "name": "Cali", "alternate_names": [ { "name": "칼리", "lang": "ko", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "de", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "en", "isPreferredName": true, "isShortName": true }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "es", "isPreferredName": true, "isShortName": true }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "fi", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "fr", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "hr", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "hu", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "id", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "it", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "nl", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "pl", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "pt", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "qu", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "sv", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cáli", "lang": "pt", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Calium", "lang": "la", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "CLO", "lang": "iata", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "COCLO", "lang": "unlc", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cali", "lang": "link", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Kali", "lang": "az", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Kali", "lang": "lad", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Kali", "lang": "lv", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Kalio", "lang": "eo", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Kalis", "lang": "lt", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Q51103", "lang": "wkdt", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Santiago de Cali", "lang": "en", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Santiago de Cali", "lang": "es", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Santiago de Cali", "lang": "", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Кали", "lang": "bg", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Кали", "lang": "ru", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Кали", "lang": "sr", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Калі", "lang": "be", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Калі", "lang": "uk", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "סנטיאגו דה קאלי", "lang": "he", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "كالي", "lang": "ar", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "کالی", "lang": "fa", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "کالی", "lang": "pnb", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "กาลี", "lang": "th", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false } ], "local_names": [ { "name": "칼리", "lang": "ko", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "de", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "es", "isPreferredName": true, "isShortName": true }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "fi", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "fr", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "hr", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "hu", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "id", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "it", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "nl", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "pl", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false }, { "name": "Cali", "lang": "pt", "isPreferredName": false, "isShortName": false } ], "region": "Valle del Cauca Department", "country": "Colombia", "country_code": "CO", "page_url": "https://worldtownguide.com/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co.html", "json_url": "https://worldtownguide.com/data/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co.json", "same_as": [ "https://www.geonames.org/3687925", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cali" ], "coordinates": { "latitude": 3.43054, "longitude": -76.5199 }, "population": 2392877, "elevation_m": -32768, "timezone": "America/Bogota", "summary": "OFFICIAL TRAVEL ADVISORY AND CURRENT SAFETY CONTEXT\n\nThe UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura, and to the municipality of Jamundí. The US State Department rates Colombia at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Cali itself, the capital of Valle del Cauca, does not appear in official exclusion lists for the department capital, though it is located in a region where targeted restrictions apply to peripheral areas. Travellers should verify current official guidance before departure, as conditions change. Travel insurance policies may be invalidated if travel proceeds against current FCDO advice for restricted areas.\n\nRecent conflict and risk background\n\nBetween 24 and 27 April, several explosive devices were detonated across Cauca, Valle del Cauca, and Nariño departments, including near military bases and police stations. The UK FCDO noted these incidents as part of a current security assessment. Official sources attribute ongoing security concerns in the region to armed group activity and narcotics trafficking. No specific incidents affecting Cali city proper appear in recent official updates, though the wider departmental context warrants awareness. Persons travelling to or within the region should remain alert to their surroundings and maintain contact with their embassy or consulate.\n\nHistorical context\n\nCali was founded on 25 July 1536 by Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Belalcázar, initially established near Vijes and Riofrío before relocation to its present site. The city became a recognized centre of Colombian independence, participating in the declaration of independence on 3 July 1810. In 1928, Cali hosted the First National Games, signalling its emergence as a major urban centre. Over recent decades, the city has undergone substantial urban transformation, including the construction of the Tunnel Mundialista, an urban infrastructure project that reshaped internal mobility and public space.\n\nGeography and settlement setting\n\nCali is the capital and largest city of Valle del Cauca Department in southwest Colombia. The city spans 560.3 square kilometres with an urban core of approximately 120.9 square kilometres. As the third most populous city in Colombia by official estimates, it functions as the primary economic and administrative hub of the southwestern region. The wider Valle del Cauca department is ecologically significant: despite covering only 1.9 percent of Colombia's surface area, it contains 25 to 50 percent of the country's fauna species and 11 percent of flora species, reflecting its position at the intersection of the Andes mountains and the biogeographic Chocó region.\n\nThe nearby Pacific port of Buenaventura, approximately 120 kilometres to the west, serves as Colombia's principal Pacific maritime gateway and is under FCDO restrictions. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport operates between Palmira and Cali, serving as Colombia's fourth-busiest passenger airport and frequently acting as an alternate hub for Bogotá when conditions warrant. The University of Valle, one of Colombia's largest higher education institutions with over 30,000 students, is based primarily in Cali and represents a significant research and teaching presence.\n\nDaily life and local context\n\nCali is widely recognised for salsa music, which forms a central element of the city's cultural identity. La Feria de Cali, an annual fair, and events such as the Festival Petronio Álvarez and Delirio festival are established cultural fixtures. Since 1997, September has been observed as Heritage Month, marking local commitment to preserving traditions and artistic heritage. Urban art and traditional performance are active elements of the city's cultural economy.\n\nThe city is designated as Colombia's sports capital, with established infrastructure for football, basketball, and bullfighting. A Christ the King Monument and the Sendero Verde Ecológico, an ecological and recreational corridor, serve as local landmarks. The historic district has been designated as a tourist attraction, with multiple museums and cultural centres in operation.\n\nSugar cane plantations occupy surrounding agricultural areas. Medical tourism and salsa-related cultural tourism represent documented economic sectors, though the extent of their current operation cannot be confirmed without current local sources.\n\nThe indigenous Calima culture first settled the region around 2000 BC, establishing the area's earliest known human presence.\n\nPractical notes\n\nBefore travelling to Cali or Valle del Cauca Department, consult the current FCDO travel advisory and the US State Department guidance on Colombia. Verify whether restrictions apply to your intended destination and activities. Register with your embassy or high commission if travelling to the region. Maintain contact with local authorities or your consulate throughout your stay. Check that your travel insurance covers the areas you intend to visit and provides protection consistent with official guidance. Explosive devices, armed group activity, and criminal violence remain documented risks in parts of the department; remain alert and avoid restricted peripheral municipalities.", "images": [ { "url": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki4.jpg", "original_url": "", "srcset": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki4-640.jpg 640w, https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki4.jpg 800w", "source": "wikipedia", "title": "Cali", "credit": "Image: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons" }, { "url": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki3.jpg", "original_url": "", "srcset": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki3-640.jpg 640w, https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki3.jpg 800w", "source": "wikipedia", "title": "Cali", "credit": "Image: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons" }, { "url": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki2.jpg", "original_url": "", "srcset": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki2-640.jpg 640w, https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-wiki2.jpg 800w", "source": "wikipedia", "title": "Cali", "credit": "Image: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons" }, { "url": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co.jpg", "original_url": "", "srcset": "https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co-640.jpg 640w, https://worldtownguide.com/images/settlements/cali-valle-del-cauca-department-co.jpg 800w", "source": "wikipedia", "title": "Cali", "credit": "Image: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons" } ], "nearby": [ { "geonameid": "3665657", "name": "Yumbo", "country": "Colombia", "population": 71436, "has_page": true, "page_url": "https://worldtownguide.com/settlements/yumbo-valle-del-cauca-department-co.html" }, { "geonameid": "3680387", "name": "Jamundí", "country": "Colombia", "population": 44833, "has_page": false, "page_url": null }, { "geonameid": "3687644", "name": "Candelaria", "country": "Colombia", "population": 23989, "has_page": false, "page_url": null }, { "geonameid": "3671315", "name": "Puerto Tejada", "country": "Colombia", "population": 46215, "has_page": false, "page_url": null }, { "geonameid": "3679317", "name": "La Cumbre", "country": "Colombia", "population": 0, "has_page": false, "page_url": null }, { "geonameid": "3673164", "name": "Palmira", "country": "Colombia", "population": 312519, "has_page": true, "page_url": "https://worldtownguide.com/settlements/palmira-valle-del-cauca-department-co.html" } ], "weather": { "temp": 27.5, "desc": "Overcast", "icon": "☁️", "wind": 5.8, "humidity": 63 }, "faqs": [ { "question": "Where is Cali?", "answer": "Cali is a city located in Valle del Cauca Department, Colombia. Its coordinates are 3.4305N, -76.5199E." }, { "question": "What is the population of Cali?", "answer": "The population of Cali is approximately 2,392,877." }, { "question": "What timezone is Cali in?", "answer": "Cali is in the America/Bogota timezone." }, { "question": "What cities are near Cali?", "answer": "Cities and towns near Cali include Yumbo, Jamundí, Candelaria and Puerto Tejada." }, { "question": "What is the current weather in Cali?", "answer": "Current conditions in Cali: Overcast, 27.5C, wind 5.8 km/h, humidity 63%." } ], "sources": [ "GeoNames (population, coordinates, elevation, timezone)", "Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons (images, summary context)", "Open-Meteo (current weather)", "OpenStreetMap (map)", "Additional article research sources (linked below)" ], "research_sources": [ { "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cali", "title": "Wikipedia", "type": "wikipedia", "relevance": "" }, { "url": "https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/colombia", "title": "UK FCDO travel advice", "type": "official_advisory", "relevance": "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific..." }, { "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/tsg_aem/us/en/home/international-travel/travel-advisories/destination.col.html", "title": "US State Department travel advisory", "type": "official_advisory", "relevance": "Level 3: Reconsider Travel" }, { "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/colombia-travel-advisory.html", "title": "US State Department country advisory reference", "type": "official_advisory_reference", "relevance": "Colombia has official travel advisory context. Generated pages should cite official advice where relevant and otherwise use neutral historical and geographic context." }, { "url": "https://visitvalle.travel/en/about-valle-del-cauca/", "title": "About Valle del Cauca | Colombia's Tourist Destination", "type": "web_research", "relevance": "Official source confirming Cali as departmental capital and providing ecological/geographic context. Notes Christ the King Monument in Cali." }, { "url": "https://www.orgullodecali.com/category/patrimonio-historico/", "title": "Patrimonio Histórico archivos - Orgullo de Cali", "type": "web_research", "relevance": "Local source emphasizing cultural heritage, urban infrastructure projects, and identity. Provides specific details on recent urban development and ecological corridors." }, { "url": "https://www.dilifeart.com/el-impacto-del-arte-y-la-cultura-en-el-turismo-sostenible/", "title": "El Impacto del Arte y la Cultura en el Turismo Sostenible - CALI 💚", "type": "web_research", "relevance": "Contemporary source on culture-led tourism development and economic impact. Confirms salsa's central role and international events." }, { "url": "https://www.moradaancestral.com/mes-del-patrimonio-en-cali-un-viaje-por-la-memoria-y-la-cultura-de-la-region/", "title": "Mes del patrimonio en Cali: Un viaje por la memoria y la cultura | Morada Ancestral", "type": "web_research", "relevance": "Local cultural perspective confirming founding date and emphasizing heritage preservation traditions. Places Cali's history within national Colombian context." }, { "url": "https://caliescribe.com/2024/11/22/el-patrimonio-historico-y-el-turismo/", "title": "El patrimonio histórico y el turismo | Noticias de Cali, el Valle y Colombia", "type": "web_research", "relevance": "Contemporary commentary on historical significance and tourism development potential. Confirms key historical dates and recognizes cultural attractions." }, { "url": "https://www.cali.gov.co/turismo/calendario/4138/principales-atractivos-turisticos-de-cali-y-su-historia/", "title": "Principales atractivos turísticos de Cali y su historia", "type": "web_research", "relevance": "Official municipal tourism resource confirming visitor attractions exist and are promoted by local government." } ], "travel_advisory": { "country_code": "CO", "country_name": "Colombia", "risk_level": "3", "summary": "Level 3: Reconsider Travel", "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/tsg_aem/us/en/home/international-travel/travel-advisories/destination.col.html", "last_updated": "2026-04-22T13:08:58Z", "fcdo": { "source": "UK FCDO", "title": "Colombia travel advice", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/colombia", "updated_at": "2026-04-28T15:40:42Z", "reviewed_at": "2026-04-28T15:40:42Z", "alert_status": [ "avoid_all_but_essential_travel_to_parts" ], "warning_summary": "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific...", "warning_text": "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department the southern part of Córdoba Department the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department the southern part of Bolívar Department Central Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José del Guaviare Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company. Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department...", "restricted_travel_text": "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department the southern part of Córdoba Department the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department the southern part of Bolívar Department Central Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José del Guaviare Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department the Ariari region of southern Meta, except...", "cause": "official_warning", "has_against_all_travel": true, "has_against_essential_travel": true, "countrywide_warning": false, "parts": [ { "title": "Warnings and insurance", "slug": "warnings-and-insurance", "body": "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department the southern part of Córdoba Department the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department the southern part of Bolívar Department Central Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José del Guaviare Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company. Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department. Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel . Explosive attacks in Cauca, Valle de Cauca and Nariño departments Between 24-27 April, several explosive devices were detonated in Cauca, Valle de Cauca and Nariño departments, including near military bases and police stations. One device exploded on the Pan-American Highway causing several deaths, injuries and significant damage and disruption. Local authorities are investigating. Road closures and further disruption should be expected. Monitor media and follow advice from local authorities. See Safety and security page . Before you travel No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: see general advice for women travellers read our guide on disability and travel abroad see general advice for LGBT+ travellers read about safety for solo and independent travel see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad Travel insurance If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. About FCDO travel advice FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . Get travel advice updates Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. Follow FCDO : travel advice on X travel advice on Facebook Travel Aware on Instagram" }, { "title": "Regional risks", "slug": "regional-risks", "body": "This section has safety advice for regions of Colombia. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) has specific advice. You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice . Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: the Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander Department all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela, except for the city of Cúcuta FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the whale-watching towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and the tourist site of Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department the southern part of Córdoba Department the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department the southern part of Bolívar Department The Pacific coast of Chocó is a popular eco-tourist destination. However, much of Chocó is remote. Illegal armed groups are active and involved in the drugs trade throughout the department and particularly near the border with Panama. If you intend to travel to the whale-watching towns of Bahia Solano and Nuqui, only do so by air and do not travel inland or along the coast out of town. Darien Gap The ‘Darien Gap’ is a dangerous area renowned for the presence of several illegal armed groups, illegal migration and drugs trafficking. There’s no road crossing between Colombia and Panama. Avoid crossing between Panama and Colombia by land. Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department. Central Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José de Guaviare Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company. Ciudad Perdida – ‘Lost City’ If you travel to the ‘Lost City’ in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, only do so as part of an organised tour. San Agustín Archaeological Park The San Agustín Archaeological Park (‘Parque Arqueológico de San Agustín’) is in the department of Huila. Enter and leave the park on the main road through Neiva or Popayán." } ] }, "uk_url": "https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/colombia", "advisory_applies_to_city": "yes", "advisory_cause": "official_warning", "official_advisory_summary": "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific...", "advisory_severity": "do_not_travel", "advisory_reference": { "country_code": "CO", "country_name": "Colombia", "generated_at": "2026-04-30T02:18:02.683616+00:00", "assessment": { "applies_to_city": "unknown", "applicable_rules": [], "regional_restrictions_only": false, "overall": { "uk_level": "regional_restrictions", "us_level": "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution", "primary_risk_categories": [], "neutral_summary": "Colombia has official travel advisory context, but this reference did not extract a countrywide do-not-travel rule or settlement-matching regional rule." }, "article_reference": { "when_advisory_applies": "Official travel advisories identify this area as subject to heightened travel risk. The article should start with the official advice, summarize why the advice applies, and then move to neutral historical and geographic context.", "when_advisory_is_regional_only": "", "neutral_background": "Colombia has official travel advisory context. Generated pages should cite official advice where relevant and otherwise use neutral historical and geographic context.", "official_warning_summary": "Official advisory context is available for Colombia. UK level: regional_restrictions; US level: Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.", "why_warning_applies": "Warnings and insurance Latest update: New information following explosive attacks in Cauca, Valle de Cauca and Nariño departments between 24 - 27 April ('Warnings and insurance' page). Explosive attacks in Cauca, Valle de Cauca and Nariño departments Between 24-27 April, several explosive devices were detonated in Cauca, Valle de Cauca and Nariño departments, including near military bases and police stations. You must be able to show an onward or return ticket valid within the 90-day period. Safety and security Terrorism There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.", "areas_affected": "", "current_security_context": "Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Norte de Santander Department, including Cúcuta. all of Arauca Department, except for the department capital, Arauca the municipality of Puerto Carreño in Vichada Department, except for the department capital, Puerto Carreño within 5km of the rest of the border with Venezuela. FCDO currently advises against all travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia . Pacific coast and Colombia-Panama border FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá the western part of Valle del Cauca Department, including Buenaventura the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca the western part of Cauca Department the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nariño Department the southern part of Córdoba Department the Urabá and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia Department the southern part of Bolívar Department Central Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: all of Guaviare Department, except for the department capital San José del Guaviare Cartagena del Chairá, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montañita in Caquetá Department the Ariari region of southern Meta, except for Caño Cristales If travelling to the tourist site of Caño Cristales, travel by air from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company. Colombia-Ecuador border and southern Colombia FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the border with Ecuador except for: the border crossing on the Pan-American highway at the Puente Internacional de Rumichaca the city of Ipiales in Nariño Department FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Orito, San Miguel, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmán, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo Department. Checks at border control Colombian authorities advise that you can speed up your entry to the country by completing the ‘Check-Mig’ form on Migración Colombia , although this is not mandatory. If the immigration office on the border is closed, go to the nearest office of Migración Colombia (in Spanish)." }, "source_urls": { "uk_fcdo": "https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/colombia", "us_state_advisory": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/colombia-travel-advisory.html", "us_country_info": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Colombia.html" } } }, "advisory_reference_applies_to_city": "unknown" }, "contributions": { "has_approved": false } }