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Reviewed: 12 January 2009, 11:12 NZDT
Still current at:
08 November 2009
There is extreme risk to your security in the provinces of Norte de Santander (excluding Cucuta), Santander, Putumayo, Nariño (excluding Pasto), Cauca, Valle de Cauca (excluding Cali), Huila, Arauca, Meta, Guaviare and the rural areas of Antioquia due to the presence of illegal armed groups and coca cultivation and we advise against all travel there.
There is a high risk to your security in the towns of Cucuta, Cali and Pasto, and the provinces of Caqueta, Tolima, Chocó, Córdoba, Sucre, the rural areas of Boyacá and Cundinamarca, southern Bolívar, the southern and border areas of Cesar, the border areas of La Guajira and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria in the province of Magdalena. We advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel there.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Colombia, and we advise travellers to exercise a high degree of caution.
There is a risk of terrorism throughout Colombia, as well as a high incidence of kidnapping. This is linked to the strong presence of illegal armed groups and prevalent coca cultivation. If you travel to areas in Colombia against our advice, you should ensure you have taken appropriate, professional security measures.
The risk of terrorist bombings and kidnapping extends to the cities. You should be particularly cautious around government buildings, military establishments, public transport and commercial and entertainment centres, which are potential targets for terrorist attacks.
There are high levels of violent crime linked to theft in the cities, including Bogotá. We recommend you use pre-booked taxis where possible and avoid displaying valuables.
Travellers are advised to avoid crossing the borders into and out of Colombia by land. The incidence of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Colombia is high. Travellers should follow local advice, and also be aware that mine areas can be unmarked.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Colombia should have comprehensive travel or medical insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air. We recommend you contact your insurance provider to ensure you have appropriate cover for Colombia.
New Zealanders are urged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Central and South America
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Contact details are
Street Address El Golf 99, Oficina 703, (Casilla 112), Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Telephone + 56 2 290 9800 Facsimile +56 2 458 0940
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Website New Zealand Embassy Santiago [external link]
Office hours Mon-Thu 0900 – 1300hrs, 1400 – 1700hrs; Fri 0900 – 1330hrs
Contact details are
Telephone +57 1 633 1322
Mobile +57 310 2307795
Facsimile +57 1 274 7135
Email pearsona@cable.net.co
