San Andrés Island’s world-class beaches shimmer like a Caribbean dream – but whispers of danger aren’t far away. Residents report skyrocketing crime (one blogger described it as “through the roof”) and a 2022 survey found 62% of islanders sensed rising violence and 40% feared becoming a victim. Yet official advisories strike a nuanced tone: Canada advises travelers to “take normal security precautions” in San Andrés, while the UK warns of pickpocketing on the Caribbean coast. In practice, San Andrés rewards visitors who stay alert and prepared – it’s paradise, with street smarts.

The Reality: Crime vs. Tourist Experience

Government advisories. Both tourists and locals note Colombia’s high crime reputation. The U.S. State Department urges caution nationwide (and even forbids employees from using street-hail taxis). Canada’s government says San Andrés’ downtown is generally safe if you follow normal precautions. The UK travel advice similarly flags the Caribbean coast for petty crime: “pickpocketing, mugging and armed robbery are a problem” there. In short, advisories stress vigilance, not panic – San Andrés has no unique terrorism threat, and is far safer than Colombia’s conflict zones.

Local threats. On the ground, theft dominates the risk picture. Small gangs on motorcycles target pedestrians and beachgoers: mobile phones and cameras are especially tempting for snatch-and-run thieves. In one high-profile robbery, two hostel guests were held at knife-point near Playa Norte and only lost cash and backpacks, since they had wisely left passports locked in their room. Pickpocketing is common at crowded spots, and locals warn that Carrera 8 (a road near the airport) and its adjacent barrios are “most dangerous” areas to avoid. By contrast, violent crime is lower than on the mainland, and the islands carry no special terrorism warnings. With care, most visitors go unharmed – the trick is knowing what precautions to take.

8 Safety Essentials for San Andrés, Colombia

1. Never walk alone after dark. Local police really mean it. One traveler was stopped by officers at 11pm and essentially escorted (on a moped!) back to his hostel for his own safety. British advisories also advise extra caution on city streets after sunset.
2. Use only licensed taxis or ride apps. Always book through your hotel or a reputable app. The U.S. government explicitly bans street-hail cabs for employees, warning of express kidnappings when scammers pose as taxi drivers.
3. Store passports and spare cash securely. Keep your passport locked in the hotel safe or a hostel locker. In a recent mugging, thieves only grabbed cash and phones because passports had been left secured in a locker. Carry only the IDs and funds you need for the day.
4. Don’t flaunt valuables. Cell phones, cameras and jewelry are constant targets. Keep phones out of sight, and consider an anti-theft bag. On beaches and buses especially, never leave bags unattended. (Drive-by phone-snatches by motorcyclists have become routine.)
5. Avoid street taxis at night. If you must take a cab, summon it via phone or app, or ask staff to help. Fraudulent taxi drivers sometimes abduct lone passengers for “express” robberies. When using legitimate taxis, verify the driver and only ride in front seats if you’re alone.
6. Stick to well-trafficked routes. Don’t wander into isolated alleys or beachfronts after dark. Local advice is to avoid Carrera 8 and its barrios entirely. In practice, that means staying within the main town (Playa Norte and Concordia areas) after sundown. Always let someone know your plans and which taxi you took.
7. Beware of common scams. Criminals sometimes drug victims (with scopolamine spiked into drinks) to rob them. At restaurants and bars, watch your drinks and refuse anything handed by strangers. Never leave personal items with people you just met.
8. Trust your instincts and stay informed. If a situation feels off, leave. Read local news and ask hotel staff which neighborhoods to steer clear of. Carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original locked away. Having travel insurance and noting local emergency numbers (#123 police) are also wise precautions.

Safe Zones vs. No-Go Areas

Local Voices: What Residents Wish You Knew

San Andrés’ residents face challenges behind the postcard scenery. Unemployment and poverty are high – the 2020 hurricanes and pandemic pushed the island’s jobless rate to ~25%. A local guide told one visitor the $35 tourist-card fee (required on arrival) “doesn’t benefit the locals” as much as it should. In fact, many islanders rely directly on tourist spending. Travelers can help by supporting family-run eateries, boat tours and eco-activities, and by tipping generously. Even a small tip at places like the Ecofiwi mangrove tours or a local fonda (open-air restaurant) goes a long way. In short, give back to the community whenever you can – it’s one of the best ways to ensure your money helps the island’s people.

So, Is San Andrés Island, Colombia Safe?

Yes – with street smarts. San Andrés is generally safer than the headlines imply, but you must stay alert. Most visits are trouble-free if you follow local advice: stay in well-populated areas after dark, secure your valuables, and use only licensed transport. In return, this Caribbean treasure rewards the cautious with world-class diving, bright reefs and relaxed beaches. Pack your sense of adventure – and awareness – and San Andrés’ turquoise waters and coconut-rice sunsets await.