The city of eternal spring, the silver cup, the most innovative city in the world? Are you wondering to which place these attractive descriptions correspond? Indeed, we are talking about Medellín. Nowadays, these titles are the ones that come to mind when mentioning the capital of Antioquia, displacing the shadows of violence that in the past marked its history. And on the other hand, there is the shadow of its history of violence that, during the 80s and 90s, led it to be known as “the most violent city in the world.”.
Today, Medellin has become a dream destination for travelers from all over the world. But is it really safe for tourists? In this article, we will tell you what Medellín is like today and how it has managed to reinvent itself culturally and become a global metropolis.
In addition, we will offer you some tips on how to move around safely. As in any tourist destination that receives millions of visitors every year, it is important to follow certain recommendations to make the most of its urban tours and its excellent nightlife.
Is Medellin Safe in 2024?
Beyond the daily security challenges faced by cities around the world, today it is possible to affirm that Medellín is a safe environment for both residents and tourists. A clear example of this is the city’s effort to guarantee peace of mind and security for everyone by strengthening security policies at strategic points. This has been achieved with the implementation of facial recognition cameras, advanced patrols, surveillance drones, and monitoring helicopters.
The data show that these efforts have been effective. According to the “Medellín Cómo Vamos” quality of life survey, the city’s image of favorability for inbound tourism remains at 62%. In addition, the heart of Medellín, known as “downtown Medellín,” has seen an increase in its favorability, reaching 53%.
Likewise, 52% of Medellín’s citizens believe that the city is on the right track. In terms of security, in 2024, 47% of residents believe that Medellín is a safe city. This figure reflects a progressive increase in the perception of safety in recent years.
Another interesting piece of data from this survey is related to theft crimes. According to “Medellín Cómo Vamos,” the proportion of people who have been victims of crime in the city has decreased. So, if you are still wondering if Medellín is safe for tourists, the answer is clear: of course it is; the city of eternal spring is safe for visitors.
Is Medellin Safe for Women Tourists?
It is no secret that, worldwide, it is essential to implement strategies to make women feel increasingly safe and protected in any environment. In the case of Medellín, in addition to awareness campaigns, specialized measures have been adopted to address cases in which women’s rights are violated, such as hotlines and police patrols specialized in cases related to gender violence.
Although these measures contribute to mitigating insecurity, it is important to take additional precautions when traveling in the city, not only for women but also for men. For example, it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas of the city. Use only reliable transportation services, such as apps like Uber and InDriver, or public transportation, such as the Metro. It is also essential to avoid traveling alone or accepting drinks from strangers. Always remember to pay attention to your surroundings and be cautious about accepting help from strangers.
Overall, there is no cause for alarm. Women visiting Medellin can enjoy all the plans, benefits, and safe spaces offered by the city of the “silver cup,” which works every day to ensure that tourists have an enriching and safe experience during their visit.
Remember that enjoying a safe trip also depends on planning activities with your travel group, taking tours with local guides, and visiting safe places, such as Comuna 13, the Pablo Escobar Tour, and the Coffee Tour Medellín.
Tips for staying safe in Medellin
One of the main attractions of Medellín, for both locals and tourists, is its wide variety of activities that you can enjoy during the day and night. The city offers services and experiences for all tastes, allowing you to make the most of your time, entertain yourself, and live an unforgettable experience in the city of eternal spring.
- During the day, you can opt for quiet activities, such as exploring the local gastronomy by visiting various restaurants. If you are a coffee lover, the coffee tour is an unmissable experience. This tour will guide you through each stage of the process, from cultivation to the cup, connecting you with one of Colombia’s most emblematic traditions.
- If you prefer something more cultural, the Comuna 13 Tour is an excellent option. This tour will allow you to learn, through art and culture, the history of social transformation that this emblematic commune of Medellín has experienced. Other outstanding places to visit include the Botanical Garden, the Explora Park, and the ecological walks that are organized in different areas of the city.
- If you are looking for thrills and adventure, Medellín also has a lot to offer. You can do activities such as paragliding over the Aburrá Valley, enjoying breathtaking views, or venture out on ATV rides or paintball games in the different fields available in the city.
- Given the large tourist offer, many agencies organize tours with packages that include these activities and even offer the option to customize your tours. To make sure you choose a reliable agency, check its reputation on review platforms or ask local residents for recommendations. This will guarantee that you will get the contracted services safely.
- For example, look for agencies that have a professional website, clear contact options, positive reviews, and a social media presence. It’s also a good idea to shop around to make sure you get the best service for your money.
- Even the darkness of the night does not hide the magic of Medellín. The city’s nightlife is as varied as its daytime activities. You can start the evening in themed restaurants with an excellent gastronomic offer. Then dive into the fun with options such as chivas rumberas, discos with different atmospheres and crossover music, or even explore nightclubs designed for adults.
- To fully enjoy these experiences, it is important to consider your safety. As some activities involve handling cash or using your bank cards, you can hire an escort service or private security to feel more at ease during your tours. Although most tourist sites have public and private security, having additional protection can give you greater comfort and confidence when exploring the city.
Stay Extra Safe With Medellin VIP!
Undoubtedly, Medellin offers a wide variety of plans to enjoy, adapted to all tastes. There is no excuse not to make the most of your stay in the capital of Antioquia. Whether you prefer quiet activities or more exciting adventures, daytime or nighttime plans, you will find ideal options for listening to music, chatting, or letting yourself be carried away by the energy of dancing.
The most important thing is that, regardless of the plan you choose, the city has several measures in place to guarantee your safety, allowing you to enjoy your stay with peace of mind and without worrying about possible mishaps. Medellín is waiting for you!
