| In short : Colombia still drags its old 90s demons, but it has transformed into a vibrant and addictive destination. For a single woman, the trip is not only possible, but extremely gratifying, provided you respect simple local codes: – The golden rule (No Dar Papaya): Literally “don’t give papaya”. This means not exposing unnecessarily to temptation (do not take out your last smartphone or large wads of tickets in the middle of the street). – Night transport: Prefer day or plane buses for long distances. In town, use only the applications (Uber, Cabify) rather than hailing a traditional taxi on the fly in the evening. – Colombian reception: This is the strength of the country. The locals are of a rare and protective benevolence towards solo travelers. Let yourself be guided by their hospitality while remaining attentive. |
“Are you going to Colombia alone? But you are crazy! If you have this project in mind, you must have heard this worry sentence. Between Shadow Descobar and fiction series, Colombia suffers from a tenacious reputation. However, the reality on the ground is light years away from clichés.
On aroundduglobe.fr, we advocate the female solo trip as a great demancipation tool. After surveying the Andes country to the Caribbean coast, we deliver a realistic plan of action, without angelism but without paranoia, to live an unforgettable and totally serene Colombian adventure.
1. Security: the rules of the game in Colombia
security in Colombia is not a matter of luck, it is a question of behavior and attitude.
Understand the concept of “no dar papaya”
This is the national expression you will hear in all corners of the country. In other words: if you hold out a pole to be robbed, someone will grab it. Leave your valuable jewelry at home, carry your backpack in the crowded markets, and do not handle your phone in the middle of a busy sidewalk. Instead, enter a store or cafe to check your route.
Urban travel under control
In large metropolises such as Bogota or Medellín, the neighborhoods change atmosphere from one street to another. In the evening, no random walk. Use the VTC (Uber or Cabify) applications that trace your route. It is the insurance of a fixed price and a secure race. For intercity journeys, prefer official day bus terminals or domestic flights that often cost no more.
2. Feedback: Being a single woman out there
Contrary to popular belief, traveling alone in Colombia offers a major advantage: you trigger an immediate sympathy capital.
The incredible local solidarity
Colombians are aware of the image of their country and do everything to restore it. As a single woman, you will often see mothers, drivers or traders taking you under their wing spontaneously to make sure you are safe. If you are lost, ask for help: the locals will bend over backwards to guide you.
Manage drag and machismo
The piropo (the street compliment) is part of Latin culture. It is rarely aggressive, but can be heavy in the long run. The best technique? Do like the Colombians: ignore royally, keep your sunglasses and trace your route with confidence. A simple “no, gracias” firm is enough to cut short any insistence.
Dinitiate Lastuce: stay in Charming Hostels (Youth Hostels), very developed in Colombia (like the chains Masaya or Viajero). Even if you take a private room for your comfort, the common areas will allow you to instantly meet other solo travelers, share guide fees or exchange fresh road safety information.
Practical table: what is certain vs what is risky
| ABSOLUTELY AVOID ❌ | To favor without hesitation 🏆 | Why does this make the difference? |
| Take an official taxi on the street in Bogota at 11 p.m. | Order an Uber or Cabify from the app. | The journey is geolocated and the identity of the driver is checked in real time. |
| Walk alone in the historic center (Candelaria) after 7 p.m. | Stay in busy areas (Zona T, Usquén or your hostel). | The historic centers are completely empty at night and become the ground for pickpockets. |
| Follow a stranger met in a bar for a private “after”. | Partying in a group with people we met in Lhostel. | Chemical submission (scopolamine) exists. Always stay in control of your glasses. |
| Arrive in a new city by bus at 3am. | Calculate your schedules to arrive before sunset. | Arriving during the day allows you to redirect calmly and avoid deserted bus stations. |
FAQ: Your questions to take the plunge serenely
1. What level of Despagnol do you need to have to travel alone in Colombia?
A basic level is highly recommended. If in the great tourist structures the English passes, Colombia is lived in Spanish. Knowing the courtesy sentences and knowing how to ask for a direction or a price will save you a lot of scams and will allow you to connect with the premises, which remains your best security bulwark.
2. What are the safest areas for a first solo trip?
The traveler’s classic axis is extremely safe: start with Medellin (El Poblado or Laureles districts), continue towards the magnificent Coffee region (Salento, Filandia), then finish with the Caribbean coast (Cartagena of India, Santa Marta and Tayrona Park). Simply avoid remote border areas (Venezuelan border or Darién) and the deep cauca department.
3. What to do in case of aggression or theft?
The absolute rule in Colombia is to Never resist. The material is replaced, not your life. If you are asked for your bag or phone, give it calmly and without sudden gestures. To counter this, always travel with a “fake wallet” containing a little cash and an old outdated card to give first, and keep your real blue card hidden on you.
