Safety in Cartagena: Facts vs. Fiction
Discover the truth about safety in Cartagena with data-driven facts that dispel common misconceptions about Colombia's most beautiful coastal city.
Plan Your Safe EventUnderstanding Cartagena's Safety Profile
When planning events abroad, safety is a top concern for event planners and attendees alike. At Coco Cartagena DMC, we believe in transparency and providing accurate information to help you make informed decisions. This page addresses common misconceptions about Cartagena with data-driven facts and reliable sources.
Pickpocketing and Theft: The Reality
Cartagena's theft rate in 2024 was 681 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, which is about 9 times lower than Barcelona, where theft rates have exceeded 6,000 per 100,000 in recent years.
Paris and Rome also report petty theft rates well above Cartagena's, often ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 per 100,000. In the US, San Francisco and New York both regularly report larceny and theft rates over 3,000 per 100,000, meaning Cartagena's rate is less than 25% of those cities.
This significant difference highlights Cartagena as a safer destination for visitors concerned about pickpocketing and theft, especially compared to many popular US and European cities.
681
Theft cases per 100,000 in Cartagena
6,000+
Theft cases per 100,000 in Barcelona
3,000+
Theft cases per 100,000 in San Francisco
9x
Lower theft rate than major European cities
Theft Rates Comparison: Cartagena vs. Major Tourist Cities
1.53
Legal firearms per 100 people in Colombia
120
Firearms per 100 people in the United States
Gun Ownership & Government Control
Colombia enforces some of the strictest gun laws in Latin America: private gun ownership is rare and highly regulated, with only about 1.53 legal firearms per 100 people—dramatically lower than the United States, which has roughly 120 guns per 100 people.
Civilians must be at least 18, pass extensive background checks, and have a valid reason to own a firearm, with all guns registered through the military. Permits are limited, often restricted to two guns per person, and must be renewed regularly.
Since the 2016 peace treaty, a presidential decree generally bans civilians from carrying guns, with exceptions only for special cases like private security or judicial protection. Most violent crime in Colombia is linked to organized criminal groups operating in rural areas, not in major tourist or urban centers like Cartagena.
Sources:
Colombia's Strict Gun Control Measures
Strict Licensing
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Minimum age of 18 years
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Extensive background checks
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Valid reason required
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Military registration
Carrying Restrictions
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General ban on carrying since 2016
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Exceptions only for security personnel
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Special permits required for transport
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Severe penalties for violations
Ownership Limitations
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Limited to two firearms per person
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Regular permit renewal required
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Strict ammunition controls
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Illegal for tourists to bring firearms
The "Narcos" Stigma: Past vs. Present
Colombia's "narcos" era, defined by the violence of Pablo Escobar and the MedellÃn cartel, ended over 30 years ago. Today, the country is recognized for its innovation, tourism, and vibrant culture—not for drug cartels.
MedellÃn, once the epicenter of cartel violence, was named the world's most innovative city in 2013 by the Urban Land Institute, The Wall Street Journal, and Citi, beating out global cities like New York and Tel Aviv for its transformation in public transport, urban renewal, and social innovation.
The city's homicide rate has dropped by 80% since its peak in 1991, and poverty has fallen by over 96%. MedellÃn's story is now studied worldwide as a model for urban transformation and inclusive growth.
Colombia's Transformation: Key Statistics
80%
Reduction in MedellÃn's homicide rate since 1991
96%
Reduction in poverty in MedellÃn
#1
Most innovative city award (2013)
30+
Years since the end of the Escobar era
Colombia: Then vs. Now
80s - Early 90s
Height of cartel violence and international drug trade
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High crime rates and violence
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Limited international tourism
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Negative global perception
1993
Death of Pablo Escobar and beginning of cartel fragmentation
Major turning point in Colombia's history, marking the beginning of the end for large-scale cartel operations
2000s
Period of significant security improvements and economic growth
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Major security reforms implemented
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Tourism begins to grow
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International investment increases
2013
MedellÃn named "Most Innovative City in the World"
International recognition for urban transformation, beating New York and Tel Aviv
2016
Historic peace agreement signed
End of the 52-year conflict with FARC, further improving security nationwide
Today
A thriving tourism and business destination
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Major international events and conferences
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Thriving tourism industry
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Recognized for culture, innovation, and hospitality
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Lower crime rates than many major US and European cities
Modern Colombia: The Reality
Major cities like Cartagena and MedellÃn are now global destinations welcoming millions of visitors each year, with thriving cultural scenes and improved infrastructure.
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Over 4.5 million international visitors annually (pre-pandemic)
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Tourism growing at 8-10% annually
While Netflix dramas like "Narcos" dramatize Colombia's past, they do not reflect the reality of modern Colombia, which is now a center for business and innovation.
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Major international conferences and events
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Growing tech and startup ecosystem
Safety Tips for Visitors to Cartagena
Know the Areas
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Stay in tourist-friendly areas like the Walled City, Bocagrande, and GetsemanÃ
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Use reputable transportation services
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Ask your hotel or event planner for guidance on areas to visit
General Precautions
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Keep valuables secure and minimize flashy jewelry
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Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
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Stay aware of your surroundings (as in any city)
Group Advantages
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Organized group events provide additional security
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Professional DMCs arrange secure transportation
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Local guides provide valuable safety information
How Coco Cartagena Ensures Your Safety
At Coco Cartagena DMC, safety is our top priority. We implement comprehensive security measures for all events and activities to ensure our clients enjoy Cartagena with complete peace of mind.
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Vetted Partners: We work exclusively with trusted vendors and service providers who meet our strict safety standards.
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Secure Transportation: Our transportation services include professional drivers and vehicles that are regularly maintained and monitored.
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Risk Assessment: We conduct thorough risk assessments for all venues and activities to identify and mitigate potential issues.
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24/7 Support: Our team is available around the clock to address any concerns or emergencies that may arise during your event.
Ready to Plan Your Safe Cartagena Event?
Let's discuss how Coco Cartagena DMC can help you create an unforgettable and secure event experience in one of Latin America's most beautiful destinations.
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