Southern Colombia Safety

By Lorraine Caputo

The Southern Colombia region has seen much guerrilla and paramilitary activity for more than a decade, especially away from the Pan-American Highway. The jungles to the east and west of the carretera is also affected by the fumigations of Plan Colombia.

Many of the roads are now heavily patrolled by the Colombian military. Checkpoints are common. This includes the roads out to Tumaco, and to San Agustín. Nighttime travel is still not advised by some locals, including between Ipiales, Popayán and Cali. However, many buses do travel at night upon the Pan-American Highway. In some areas, buses do not travel during dark hours.

Travel into the Putumayo is still problematic.

The weeks leading up to elections can also provide adventures beyond the norm; traditionally this has been when activity by and between the armed factions have increased. Consider twice before going off the well-worn Panamericana path at these times.

Review the safety sections of towns we cover for more information. But always seek local advice before heading to your destination.

If going to the Tumaco area, be sure to take precautions against malaria and dengue.