The most common question about Medellín: "Is it safe?" The answer is nuanced. Yes, Medellín has transformed dramatically from its cartel-era violence. No, it's not crime-free. Visitors who take reasonable precautions generally have safe, enjoyable experiences. But understanding the real risks—and avoiding outdated stereotypes—matters for making informed decisions.
The Real Safety Picture
Medellín's homicide rate has fallen from 381 per 100,000 in 1991 to around 25 per 100,000 today. That's still higher than most European cities but comparable to some US cities (St. Louis: 64; Baltimore: 51). More importantly for visitors, the violence that occurs is largely concentrated in specific areas and involves organized crime—not random attacks on tourists.
The most common crimes affecting visitors are petty theft (pickpocketing, phone snatching) and scams. Violent crime against tourists is rare but does occur, usually when people venture into risky situations involving drugs or prostitution, or walk alone at night in isolated areas.
✅ Generally Safe
- Poblado neighborhood, particularly during daylight
- Laureles, Envigado, and other middle-class areas
- Tourist areas like Comuna 13 (during tours)
- Metro system at all hours
- Shopping malls and commercial districts
- Guatapé and other popular day trips
⚠️ Exercise Caution
- Downtown/El Centro—busy during day, avoid at night
- Parque Lleras late at night (drunk tourists = easy targets)
- Anywhere flashing expensive items (phones, watches, cameras)
- Taxis hailed on street (use apps instead)
- ATMs on the street (use machines inside malls/banks)
❌ Avoid
- Drug use with strangers—scopolamine (devil's breath) drugging is real
- Walking alone at night, especially intoxicated
- Flashing wealth in any context
- Engaging with prostitution scene (robbery risk is high)
- Venturing into comunas without a guide or invitation
- Resisting during a robbery—material things aren't worth injury
Scopolamine: The Real Danger
The scariest risk in Colombia is scopolamine, a drug that renders victims compliant and erases short-term memory. Criminals use it to rob people of everything—walking them to ATMs, emptying bank accounts, taking possessions. Victims often have no memory of what happened.
The drug is typically administered through spiked drinks or even blown in faces. Protection is simple: don't accept drinks, cigarettes, or food from strangers; keep your hand over your drink; be wary of overly friendly strangers (especially attractive ones targeting tourists); and never leave drinks unattended.
Practical Safety Tips
- Phone: Use a decoy phone or keep yours hidden. Carry a cheap backup for maps.
- Money: Carry only what you need. Use a money belt for extras.
- Transport: Use Uber/InDriver exclusively. Avoid street taxis.
- ATMs: Use machines inside malls or banks, not on the street.
- Drinking: Watch your drink, don't get wasted, stick with friends.
- Night: Take Ubers door-to-door. Don't walk, even short distances.
- If robbed: Comply immediately. Nothing is worth your safety.
The Bottom Line
Millions of tourists visit Medellín annually, and the vast majority leave with only positive stories. The city's reputation for danger is largely outdated. With reasonable precautions—the same you'd take in any large city—your visit will likely be safe and memorable for all the right reasons.
Don't let fear prevent you from experiencing this remarkable city. But don't be naive either. Respect that crime exists, take precautions, and you'll discover why so many people fall in love with Medellín.