What the alert covers in Colombia

The US State Department keeps a Level 4: don't Travel advisory in place for Cauca except Popayán, Valle del Cauca except Cali, Arauca and Norte de Santander because of crime and terrorism. The warning was last updated March 30, 2026 and still cites armed robbery, kidnapping, murder and attacks with IEDs, landmines, car bombs, grenades and drones.

A US Embassy security alert on April 27 repeated the warning after weekend attacks in southwestern Colombia left at least 20 people dead and dozens injured. The embassy said violence in the region includes armed groups tied to narcotrafficking and FARC dissidents.

Who faces the highest risk

Tourists, expats and digital nomads are all exposed if they move through these departments, especially on transport routes such as the Pan-American Highway. US government employees are barred from travel to the Level 4 areas and official assistance is limited there.

Popayán and Cali are excluded from the warning inside their departments, but the advisory still covers the surrounding territory. Colombia has already recorded 47 massacres in 2026, with attacks concentrated in areas where armed groups compete for control.

What travelers should do now

Avoid travel into the listed departments unless your plans are essential and you’ve checked current local conditions. Colombia still requires the free Check-Mig form within 72 hours before flights and dual nationals need to carry both passports.

Anyone affected by crime should contact local police first, then the US Embassy at +57-601-275-2000. Read our full Colombia guide for the complete picture and check nomad news for more updates.