Dangerous and Safe Areas in Medellín
Staying Safe in Medallo
As a rule of thumb:
North: Generally lower-income areas
South: More affluent neighborhoods (esp Southeast): El Poblado, Envigado, Sabaneta
Areas with Higher Risk 🗡️
Comuna 13 (San Javier): While significantly improved, some parts still have gang activity. Stick to guided tours and avoid independent exploration at night.
El Centro (La Candelaria): Higher risk of petty theft and street crime, particularly around Parque Berrío, areas near the river, and at night. Stick to guided tours and you'll be fine.
Northeastern Comunas (Aranjuez, Castilla, Manrique, Moravia): These areas are generally residential, have high crime rates, and limited police presence. Exercise extreme caution or avoid altogether tbh.
Bello: Higher crime rates compared to Medellín. Increased vigilance is needed, especially at night.
Buenos Aires: This comuna is known for its mix of low and middle income neighborhoods, and a higher incidence of crime. The area around the tram line is safe and enjoyable tho.
Doce de Octubre: This comuna is located on a steep hillside and is known for its challenging socioeconomic conditions and security concerns (to put it mildly).
Areas Generally Considered Safer 🟢
El Poblado: This upper class area has a strong police presence and is generally safe, but petty theft can still occur.
Within El Poblado, Provenza and Parque Lleras, while popular for nightlife, can have a higher risk of petty crime and scams.
Laureles-Estadio: A popular area for expats and digital nomads, it has a good balance of safety and affordability. Exercise general caution, especially at night around La Setenta (a nightlife street).
Envigado: A quiet, residential area south of Medellín, considered very safe. Family-friendly atmosphere.
Sabaneta: Similar to Envigado, Sabaneta is a safe and tranquil area.
Llanogrande: This semi-rural area east of Medellín is known for its luxury properties and is generally very safe.
Las Palmas: This scenic mountain road has beautiful views and tons of mansions.
General Emergencies:
123 (This number will connect you to police, fire, and ambulance services.)
Tourist Police: 155 (This line has English-speaking operators and can assist with issues specific to tourists.)
Health Emergencies/Ambulance: 132
Fire Services: 119
Important Notes
English: While the Tourist Police line (155) has English-speaking operators, other emergency lines may not. If you don't speak Spanish, try to have a Spanish-speaking person assist you with the call if possible.
U.S. Embassy: If you're a U.S. citizen and need assistance, you can contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá: (+57 1) 275-2000.
Local Etiquette
Learn basic Spanish (show respect)
Tip doormen if you’re staying at an airbnb or apartment, they’ll have your back in case of any security incident
Respect local customs and traditions
Area Awareness
Research safe areas (El Poblado, El Centro) and avoid sketchy zones
Ask locals about areas to avoid (Aranjuez, Castilla, etc.)
Private Security
Many upscale neighborhoods have private security guards
Most apartment buildings offer 24/7 security
Consider using hotel safes for valuables
Be cautious when approached by individuals claiming to be security personnel
Local Wisdom
Dating and Safety
Avoid Tinder (or any dating app); avoid bringing strangers home
If you do take the risk, opt for buildings with doormen – tip or befriend them for added security.
Nightlife Precautions
Keep your drink in sight (this is how they get you)
Don't venture out alone or into unfamiliar areas
Avoid areas known for drug activity
Street Smarts
Keep jewelry to a minimum (flashy = attractive to thieves)
Use your phone freely in safe areas (see how locals act for reference)
Blend in: ditch the "gringo" attire (no flip flops and shorts at night)
Transportation
Uber > taxis
taxi apps (e.g., Cabify) are a decent alternative
Tourist Traps in Medellín: Avoid These
Parque Lleras overpriced bars and restaurants (try Provenza instead)
Tourist-friendly cafes serving subpar coffee (head to local cafes)
Boring shopping centers (Unicentro, Premium Plaza)
Commercialized "Paisa" experiences (authentic culture in Comuna 13)
El Centro's pushy street vendors (firmly say "no gracias")
Indigenous beggars in El Poblado
Expensive, low-quality tours (research reputable operators)
Tourist Scams in Medellín: Watch Out
"Friendly" locals offering suspiciously cheap accommodations
Overpriced, fake "traditional" crafts
ATMs with card-skimming devices (cover keypad when entering PIN)
Money changers with unfavorable rates or fake currency
"Lost" or "found" item scams (ignore, don't engage)
Fake police or officials asking for bribes (verify ID, report if suspicious)
Online accommodation scams (research, use reputable booking platforms)
Unlicensed taxi services (use Uber, Cabify, or official taxis)