Learn more about navigating safely in Barranquilla as a visitor. Anyone thinking about traveling to Colombia for the first time wonders if it is still a dangerous destination. Despite the efforts of Colombian authorities to improve the country’s security standards in recent years, I would dare to say successfully, its violent past still lingers in the collective memory. But I want to leave you with these safety tips that you may or may not keep in mind when visiting Barranquilla or any other city in Colombia.
Is Barranquilla safe?
Of course it is! As they would say in colloquial terms of the costeñol Aroo!
Barranquilla is a vibrant city, with good beaches nearby, colonial architecture, great nightlife, and a thousand and one possibilities for adventure sports and leisure that make it a very complete destination.
Dare to visit this wonderful city, full of magic, and light and refreshed by a cool breeze that comes from the union of the sea and the river.
You can walk along the avenues, go out for drinks, use public transportation, and go trekking and take cycling routes.
You will realize that it is not a city where you have that feeling of latent danger, but nevertheless, you have to be careful if you leave the tourist routes and go into some of the lower-income neighborhoods, where it is not common to see tourists, much less foreigners.
It is safe to use cabs and buses?
As a first measure avoid taking cabs on the street. As a security measure, it is better to order them by phone so that it is registered or use applications such as Indriver or Uber, and besides, it is more convenient to offer your rate. (For this when you are at the hotel or the place where you are staying, without shame or fear you can ask those responsible for these places, what would be the fair value to pay for the route you are going to travel, they will gladly tell you an approximate), because many times cab drivers take advantage of the naivety or ignorance of tourists and charge higher rates than stipulated.
For night tours it is advisable to make use of the App or otherwise order a cab by phone.
If you prefer, you can make use of the bus routes that are in the city, if you have good fluency in Spanish and have your destination clear, you can ask the bus driver (which in other countries you can not), if the route leaves you at your destination and you can even ask the favor to let you know when your stop.
In Barranquilla and its surroundings, motorcycles (mototaxis) are frequently used as public transportation; we don’t recommend them – many moto drivers are inexperienced and/or reckless.
Safety recommendations
No dar Papaya!
For any normal tourist, Barranquilla is a reasonably safe city. If you are going to tour the city at your leisure, do it by the most common tourist routes. You will not be exposed to more dangers than you would have for example in Europe as long as you take the minimum precautions and use common sense. Follow these recommendations as a guide when moving around this beautiful city:
- Be well informed of which areas are dangerous and avoid them (Barranquilla has lower income neighborhoods, which can become dangerous, in the sense that residents there can hurt you by stealing your belongings).
- At night take extreme precautions if you are going out for drinks or to visit places of entertainment (read the instructions on the use of public transportation).
- Do not flaunt watches, cell phones, or expensive jewelry – as they say colloquially, “no dar papaya” (do not give papaya).
- Try not to carry all your money in your pockets – hotels and lodging places offer a safety box service to keep your valuables safe.
- Don’t carry your passport with you – instead, carry a photocopy.
- Never carry weapons and never carry illicit drugs
- While some Colombian police work undercover, the majority are almost always in uniform, olive or dark green with a yellow reflective vest that clearly says POLICIA.
- IMPORTANT – Police in Colombia have the right to request your identification and search your bags and person without reason. You are required to comply.
What to do if questioned by Police?
If you get caught in a police security checkpoint or if Police approach you..
- Stay calm, it usually only takes a few minutes.
- Have your passport (or a photocopy) at hand to identify yourself.
- Be clear about where you are staying and where you are going (this is usually asked by the police officers).
- Be friendly and answer all questions asked. The police probably have a good reason for speaking with you. Don’t give them any reason to get upset.
- Be smart – your rights in the USA don’t apply in Colombia – here, you are required to submit to searches without probable cause.
What to do if things go bad
If you are found with a weapon (a knife or pepper spray or a tazer), Colombian law empowers the police officer to seize the object, and you may be ordered to pay community service or a fine for the behavior contrary to coexistence. In Colombia, you are not permitted to carry ‘self-defence’ objects.
If you are found with illicit drugs, even in a small amount, the police officer will likely place you under arrest and take you to the processing center. The same applies to firearms, explosives, and ammunition. In this situation, you will be taken in a police vehicle to the facilities of the URI (Immediate Reaction Unit) of the Attorney General’s Office, where you will be presented before a prosecutor, who will be responsible for endorsing the police procedure and presenting you before the corresponding judge (Oral Accusatory Criminal System).
- You have the right to remain silent and you are not obliged to testify against your spouse or relatives (similar to the US 5th Amendment).
- You have the right to appoint and meet with a trusted attorney in the shortest possible time. If you are unable to do so, the national public defender system will provide your defense.
Keep in mind that for the security of the uniformed officers, you will be handcuffed (these elements can be annoying).
Filing a complaint or report
If for any reason you feel that your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Procuraduria (https://www.procuraduria.gov.co/portal/atencion_al_ciudadano.page), then clicking on Denuncias y Quejas.
If you are the victim of a crime or a situation that you feel affects your safety, you can call 123 from any landline or cell phone, which works like 911 in North America. Be aware that response times are often quite slow. You can also file a police report online with the Fiscalia using the following link: https://sicecon.fiscalia.gov.co/denuncia/LlenarFormulario
it’s important to be aware of safety considerations in any new destination, understanding the local context and taking necessary precautions can help ensure a secure and enjoyable experience in this fantastic city. This article serves as a guide to navigating safely in Barranquilla as a visitor, providing insights, tips, and practical advice for visitors.
Understanding the Local Context
Barranquilla, like any other city, has its own unique characteristics and safety considerations. While the city has seen improvements in recent years, it’s essential to stay informed about the local context and take precautions accordingly. Keep in mind the following aspects:
- Neighborhoods: Barranquilla consists of various neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere and safety levels. Research and inquire about the areas you plan to visit, and seek recommendations from locals or trusted sources to understand which areas are generally safe for tourists. Read our article on the best neighborhoods in Barranquilla.
- Street Smarts: Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places or tourist areas. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and stay alert for pickpockets or petty theft in crowded spaces, such as markets or public transportation.
- Transportation: When using public transportation, opt for registered taxis or ride-sharing services rather than hailing taxis from the street. Use reputable transportation apps and ensure that the vehicle and driver information match what you see on your phone. If possible, try to avoid late-night travel alone and consider pre-arranged transportation options for added security.
- Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency contact numbers, such as those for the police (123), ambulance services (125), or tourist police (156). Save these numbers in your phone and keep a note of them in case of emergencies.
Safety Precautions and Tips
To enhance your safety while visiting Barranquilla, consider the following precautions:
- Personal Belongings: Keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Consider using a money belt or a concealed pouch to store your passport, credit cards, and cash.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on local news, weather conditions, and any travel advisories or alerts issued for Barranquilla. Register with your embassy or consulate for travel alerts or emergency notifications.
- Local Guidance: Seek advice from trusted locals, hotel staff, or tour operators regarding safe areas, transportation options, and recommended activities. They can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your itinerary.
- Language and Culture: Learning basic Spanish phrases can be helpful for effective communication and navigating unfamiliar situations. Respect the local customs, traditions, and cultural norms to foster positive interactions with the community.
- Nighttime Safety: Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or unfamiliar areas, especially late at night. If you plan to enjoy the nightlife, stay in groups, and choose reputable establishments. Arrange transportation in advance or use reputable ride-sharing services.
Recent Recognitions
Oxford Economics published its annual Global Cities Index report 2024 and ranked Barranquilla as the third-best city in Colombia. This report ranks 1,000 cities worldwide based on categories such as economic performance, human capital, quality of life, environmental commitment, and governance.
In April 2024, fDi Intelligence ranked Barranquilla third for Latin American and Caribbean cities with the fastest-growing foreign direct investment.
In July 2024, World Travel Awards announced Barranquilla as the winner of South America’s Leading Festival & Event Destination 2024.
AIPH World Green City Awards 2024 awarded Barranquilla with a Certificate of Merit for its BAQ-Cultiva project. BAQ-Cultiva’s aim is in Strengthening Urban Forestry and Implementation of Urban Agriculture.
ProBarranquilla also reported a remarkable 130% increase in foreign direct investment in 2023 by BPOs.
Lastly, in 2023, the WRI Ross Center Prize for Cities awarded Barranquilla a prize for best green initiative.
Conclusion
Barranquilla offers a wealth of experiences and a vibrant cultural landscape for visitors. By understanding the local context, staying informed, and taking necessary precautions, you can enhance your safety and enjoy all that the city has to offer. Embrace the warm hospitality, immerse yourself in the local culture, and make lasting memories while prioritizing your well-being. Remember, a well-prepared and cautious approach will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.