Updated September 2025 | Safe Travel in Bogota

In 2013, my backpacking adventure through South America brought me to Colombia, a country bursting with vibrant culture, jaw-dropping landscapes, and a few unexpected challenges. From the wild mountain roads of La Línea to a pickpocketing incident in Bogotá, this journey was a mix of thrills, lessons, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re planning to travel to Colombia or just love a good story, here’s a refreshed take on my experience, woven with practical safety tips to help you explore Bogotá and beyond with confidence.

La Línea: A Wild Ride Through Colombia’s Mountains

My journey began with a hair-raising bus ride through La Línea, a mountain pass that’s as breathtaking as it is nerve-wracking. The drivers here need serious courage (or “huevos,” as the locals say) to navigate the switchback turns, dodging trucks, cars, bicycles, horses, pedestrians, and even the occasional military checkpoint. Yet, the scenery made it all worth it—soaring peaks, plunging valleys, and a canvas of vibrant greenery. Think exotic flowers, towering pines, eucalyptus forests, banana groves, and sprawling coffee fields, all framed by clouds drifting below you. The air was crisp, and soldiers along the route gave friendly thumbs-ups, adding a surprising sense of security.

Safety Tip: When traveling through rural areas like La Línea, stick to reputable bus companies like Expreso Bolivariano or Flota Magdalena for safer, more comfortable rides. Always keep your belongings secure in overhead racks or under your seat, and avoid flashing valuables to deter pickpockets and ensure your safe travel in Bogota and other big cities.

Arriving in Giradot and Onward to Bogotá

After La Línea, I landed in Giradot, a bustling town near Bogotá, where I hopped on the cheapest bus I could find to the capital. Big mistake. The bus stopped for every passerby, turning a quick trip into an eternity. Still, the low cost and stunning views—more lush hills and vibrant markets—kept my spirits high. Pro tip: if you’re on a budget, cheap buses are fine, but for comfort, spend a bit more for a direct route.

In Bogotá, I took a taxi to La Candelaria, the historic heart of the city, and settled into the vibrant backpacker scene. My first stop? A cozy restaurant serving authentic Arabic cuisine called Nefertiti (Calle 12B, # 1-57, La Candelaria). I savored a chicken shish kebab with rice, hummus, pita bread, and a tzatziki-like sauce, paired with a meat roll and a heap of fresh veggies. The flavors were bold, the meat tender, and the spices distinctly Mediterranean—one of the best meals I had in Colombia. The Egyptian owner even helped me find a budget-friendly hostel, Sayta Hostal (Calle 12B # 0-57, La Candelaria), for just $8 a night.

Safety Tip: In Bogotá, use trusted transport like Uber or registered taxis, especially when arriving at bus terminals. Keep your phone and cash in a secure pocket or money belt to avoid theft in busy areas like La Candelaria. These are the keys to safe travel in Bogota.

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Meeting Lolita: The Career Traveler

At the hostel, I met a colorful cast of characters, including an Englishwoman, some local beatnik-hippy types running the place, and an American woman I’ll call Lolita—a true career traveler. Lolita was the embodiment of the free-spirited hippy dream, though time hadn’t been kind to her. With her ragged backpack and weathered look, she was both inspiring and a cautionary tale. She’d lived in Spain, translating Spanish to English, before landing in Argentina, where she befriended Colombians protesting high tuition rates. That cause brought her to Colombia, via Chile and Peru, where a shaman “initiated” her as a “native” sister and gifted her a tiny backpack barely big enough for her few possessions.

Lolita’s stories were captivating, but her exhaustion was palpable. She was a reminder to all free spirits: live boldly, but know when to rest. Her journey was a testament to Colombia’s pull—a place that draws dreamers and adventurers from all walks of life.

Safety Tip: When staying in hostels, use the provided lockers or safes for valuables like passports and electronics. Engage with fellow travelers, but be cautious about sharing personal details or travel plans with strangers. Information privacy is a pillar of safe travel in Bogota.

Robbed in Bogotá: A Lesson Learned

My time in Bogotá wasn’t all smooth sailing. One evening, while chatting with some guys in La Candelaria, I got careless. As I stood to leave, someone bumped me, and my Nokia brick phone hit the ground, battery and cover flying. In the chaos, 50,000 pesos (about $25 USD at the time) vanished from my pocket. The thieves were slick—I’ll give them that.

The experience taught me to stay sharp in big cities. Bogotá’s not inherently dangerous, but like any urban hub, it rewards vigilance. I left Sayta Hostal the next day to stay with a friend, hoping for a calmer end to my trip filled with typical tourist fun—sightseeing, photos, and no more drama.

Safety Tip: In busy areas like La Candelaria or Zona T, avoid flashing phones or cash. Use a crossbody bag or hidden pouch for valuables, stick to well-lit streets at night, and travel with a buddy when possible. Check X posts or local travel blogs for real-time safe travel in Bogota advice from other travelers.

Why Colombia Still Wins

Despite the robbery, Colombia’s magic far outweighed the mishaps. For every crazy moment—like dodging traffic in La Línea or losing my phone in Bogotá—I could list five incredible ones: the warmth of locals, the taste of fresh arepas, the vibrant street art, the misty mountain views, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers. Colombia is a place of contrasts—wild yet welcoming, chaotic yet captivating.

Pro Tip for 2025 Travelers: Safe travel in Bogota, and Colombia’s tourism scene has evolved, with improved safety and infrastructure in cities like Bogotá. Smaller towns like Girardot, or Tunja remain budget-friendly gems. Blend in by dressing modestly, learning basic Spanish, and asking locals for recommendations to avoid tourist traps.

Check out our 11 Tips for Living in Colombia for more helpful advice: https://openmindedtraveler.com/2025/09/01/11-tips-living-safely-in-colombia/

Have you had your own Colombian adventure or a travel tale worth sharing? Drop it in the comments below! For more travel guides and tips, check out OpenMindedTraveler.com.