Medellin: city of Eternal Spring
- Ward B
- Aug 3, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 5, 2024
Medellin has transformed from one of the most dangerous cities to a vibrant and safer destination, though challenges remain. Discover how to navigate this evolving city.
Medellin is a city that has seen significant transformation in the past decades after its Pablo Escobar days. Despite this progress, it’s important to stay vigilant while exploring this dynamic place.
Here’s a practical guide to help you enjoy Medellin safely and make the most of your visit.
Unsafe Areas
The city of Medellin is divided into 16 communes, each with its own characteristics. Each commune is assigned a tax level to which its inhabitants are taxed. The general rule is that the higher the tax level, the safer the area usually is. The more expensive communes are where most accomodations like Airbnb and hotels are located :
El Poblado, is a very touristy zone with nice parks. The only exception is the area around Parque Lleras, which is less safe during the night.
Laureles, upscale neighborhood with clean streets
Envigado
Some areas require more caution:
Commune 13 (San Javier): Visit with caution and preferably with a guide or a small group.
Commune 1 (Popular): Avoid wandering alone, especially at night.
Commune 8 (Villa Hermosa): Higher crime rates and densely populated.
A dynamic map is available in our app.
Petty Theft
Medellin is generally safe, but petty theft such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and public transport.
Use a crossbody bag or a secure backpack, keep it in front of you, and hold onto it in crowded places.
Consider using a money belt for carrying cash and important documents discreetly.
Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry, cameras, and electronics to prevent attracting unwanted attention.
Common Scams
Scams are common in Medellin. Typical scams include:
Fake Tour Guides: Always book tours through reputable companies.
Devil's Breath: A dangerous substance used to render victims unconscious. Be cautious with strangers offering you anything, especially when going out.
ATM Scams: Use ATMs inside banks and shield your PIN.
Distraction Theft: Stay vigilant against spills or questions intended to distract you while your belongings are stolen.
Inflated tourist prices: Check prices before ordering in a bar or restaurant (take a picture) and keep track of your bill to avoid overcharging.
Traffic and Earthquakes
Medellin's traffic can be chaotic. Use designated pedestrian crossings and stay alert when crossing streets.
Recently, Medellin has seen an increase in earthquakes. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and stay informed through local news sources.
Transportation Tips
Medellin's transportation system is reliable:
The metro is safe and efficient. Keep an eye on your belongings during rush hours.
Use caution on crowded buses and keep valuables close. Ride-hailing apps are a convenient alternative.
For safer nighttime travel, opt for official taxi services like Beat, Cabify, or Didi. While Uber is available, it operates in a legal grey area. The driver will often request you to sit next to him, instead of in the back. But despite this, Uber is safe to use in Colombia. However, as always, verify the driver's identity and follow safety precautions.
Safety for Solo Female Travelers
Solo female travelers can enjoy Medellin safely with some precautions:
Colombia has a reputation for being a macho society, it has pros and cons… This DOES mean more catcalls and comments. But it ALSO means that men look out for women. While catcalling can occur, it's usually best to ignore it and continue walking confidently.
Select accommodations in safe zones like El Poblado or Laureles. Consider female-only dorms if preferred.
Prefer taxis or ride-hailing services at night over walking or public transportation.
Keep your drink in sight and avoid accepting drinks from strangers to prevent spiking.
Dress conservatively and try to blend in with locals to avoid unwanted attention.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Areas
Medellin is increasingly LGBTQ+ friendly, with zones like El Poblado and Laureles known for their welcoming atmosphere and LGBTQ+ friendly bars. Carlos E. Restrepo Square is also welcoming to the gay community.
Colombia has legalized same-sex marriage and adoption for same-sex couples. However, be mindful of public displays of affection (PDA) as the country is predominantly Catholic and some areas may not tolerate it.
Nightlife Safety
Parque Lleras is known for its nightlife but also for sex tourism. Stick to well-known bars and clubs and avoid engaging in high-risk behaviors.
Provenza is a safer alternative with many Instagram-worthy restaurants and bars. It's enjoyable without the issues of prostitution.
Be aware of spiking: Always keep an eye on your drinks and food and never accept cigarettes from strangers.
Some establishments may inflate prices for tourists. Check prices before ordering and keep track of your bill to avoid overcharging.
Comments