CALI SAFETY GUIDE
For first-time visitors, digital nomads, expats, and long-stayers.
Read this guide top to bottom once before arriving, then use sections as quick reference when needed.
Updated Jan 2025 · Most incidents are preventable with the precautions below
Overview
Cali can be incredibly safe if you follow smart precautions. Most expats and digital nomads live here for months or years without incidents. Crime is highly concentrated in specific neighborhoods where tourists rarely go.
The biggest risks are petty theft (phone snatching, pickpocketing) in tourist areas. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. The local saying "No dar papaya" (don't give papaya) means: don't make yourself an easy target.
Read Once, Reference Often
Bookmark this page. Review sections before activities (nightlife, ATM visits, new neighborhoods)
90% Preventable
Most incidents are avoidable with awareness and precautions outlined below
Ask Questions
Use Cali Compass (bottom of page) for specific area/route safety advice
Emergency & Urgent Help
Key Numbers & When to Use Each
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
General Emergency Police, Fire, Ambulance - all emergencies | 123 |
Police Direct For police-only situations | 112 |
Ambulance Direct Red Cross emergency medical | 132 |
Tourist Police English-speaking help for tourists | +57 2 886 5555 |
If You're Robbed
If Medical Emergency
If Passport Lost/Stolen
Consular Help & Embassies
After you are safe and have filed a police report, contact your embassy or consulate for passport replacement, emergency travel documents, and further assistance.
When to Contact Consular Services
- Lost or stolen passport - need emergency travel document
- Arrested or detained - need consular assistance
- Serious accident, injury, or hospitalization
- Death of a family member or serious family emergency
- Victim of serious crime requiring official documentation
What Embassies CAN Do
- Issue emergency passports or travel documents
- Contact family members on your behalf
- Provide lists of local lawyers and doctors
- Visit you if you are detained or arrested
- Help transfer money from family or friends
What Embassies CANNOT Do
- Pay your bills, fines, or legal fees
- Get you out of jail or interfere with legal processes
- Investigate crimes or provide legal advice
- Give you money (except in extreme emergencies)
Embassy & Consulate Contacts
If your country is not listed, search "[Country] embassy Colombia" or check your foreign ministry's website.
Neighborhood Safety Overview
Day & Night Safety
Daytime Walking
- Most areas safe during business hours
- Still keep phone in pocket, not hand
- Tourist areas (San Antonio, Granada) get crowded - watch for pickpockets
- Avoid displaying expensive cameras or jewelry
Evenings in Busy Districts
- Fine until 10-11pm with people around
- Stick to main, well-lit streets
- Use taxis even for short distances after 9pm
- Go out in groups if possible
Late-Night Returns
- Always use Uber/DiDi/Beat - NEVER street taxis
- Pre-book ride before leaving venue
- Share trip details with friend
- Get dropped at your exact door, not street corner
Transport Safety
Taxis & Ride Apps
Do
- Use Uber, DiDi, Beat, Cabify only
- Verify license plate matches app
- Sit in back seat
- Share trip with friend
Don't
- Don't use street taxis at night
- Don't share ride with strangers
- Don't tell driver exact address until close
Bus / MIO System
Do
- Use during daylight hours only
- Keep bags in front, zipped
- Hold phone firmly or keep in zippered pocket
- Stay near driver if possible
Don't
- Don't use MIO after 7pm
- Don't display valuables
- Don't use phone while standing
Money & Belongings
Carrying Cash & Cards
- Carry only what you need for the day
- Split cash between pockets/bags
- Use money belt or hidden pouch for large amounts
- Leave excess cash and backup cards in accommodation safe
Using ATMs Safely
- Use ATMs inside malls or banks during business hours (9am-5pm)
- Withdraw max 300-400k COP (~$75-100 USD) at a time
- Cover keypad when entering PIN
- Don't count cash in public - put directly in pocket/bag
Avoiding Displays of Wealth
- Don't wear expensive watches or flashy jewelry
- Use cheap phone for walking around (save iPhone for accommodation)
- Don't pull out large wads of cash
- Dress to blend in, not to impress
Special Scenarios
Digital Nomads & Remote Work
Where it's normal to work
Granada cafés (Tostao, Juan Valdez), Peñón coworking spaces, mall food courts
Where to be cautious
Centro cafés (keep laptop in bag when not actively using), San Antonio after dark
Seat selection
Back to wall, laptop not visible from street, near staff/other workers
When to leave early
If you notice suspicious people watching you, or café empties out after 7pm
Nightlife & Alcohol
Drink safety
Watch bartender make your drink. Never accept pre-made drinks or drinks from strangers. Cover drink when not looking.
Accepting invitations
Don't go to secondary locations (apartments, "after parties") with people you just met. Meet in public venues.
Transport home
Pre-book Uber before drinking. Share trip with friend. Leave before 2am when crime increases.
Stay with groups
Never leave alone. Buddy system. If someone leaves, entire group leaves together.
Common scams
Drink spiking (Burundanga), "beautiful woman" scam leading to robbery. Trust your instincts.
Housing & Long Stays
Building security
24/7 portero (doorman) or security guard. Controlled entry. Security cameras.
Floor safety
Higher floors (3+) safer. Avoid ground floor facing street.
Handling visitors
Always announce guests to portero. Don't buzz in unknown people.
Ask landlords
Check recent crime in building/block. Neighbor safety reputation.
Safety Questions?
Ask Cali Compass for personalized safety advice on specific areas and routes.