Visitors to Colombia are advised that high vigilance should be exercised at all times, especially when using ATMs, traveling by taxi, trail hiking or while walking at night.
Kidnappings for ransom or bargaining, especially of Western tourists, has decreased but is still a concern. Although U.S. residents can expect the support of the U.S. Embassy in almost all safety matters, it is U.S. policy to not make concessions to kidnappers so assistance is limited.
To detect and deter drug smuggling, airport security is quite strict with tourists sometimes requested to undergo a physical search or pat-down, examination of luggage and traveling gear, questioning by security personnel, fingerprinting and even abdominal X-rays.
American tourists are encouraged to register (online) their travel itinerary, accommodations and plans with the U.S. Embassy and U.S. State Department.
All U.S. citizens must show a valid US. .passport. No visa is required for stays of less than 60 days. Visitors may be asked to show proof of return (such as a round-trip ticket). The length of a visitor's stay is determined at time of entry by an immigration officer.
