The U.S. Embassy in Colombia posted a travel warning on September 29 urging U.S. citizens to stay away from the Norte de Santander Department, a northeastern region that borders Venezuela. The advisory cites an “elevated risk of attacks” by illegal armed groups, including the National Liberation Army (ELN), which the United States designates as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
Specific threats highlighted
According to the embassy statement, groups operating in the Catatumbo area have repeatedly employed commercially available drones fitted with explosives, often combined with rifle fire, to strike police substations and military installations. Officials also warned that these groups could launch attacks with little or no warning against police stations, government buildings, military sites and related infrastructure throughout the department.
Travel guidance for Americans
U.S. citizens are instructed to keep a low profile, remain vigilant, and avoid crowds, demonstrations and large gatherings. Travelers should monitor local media for security updates and stay aware of their surroundings at all times, especially near police stations, government facilities, military installations and major roadways. The embassy explicitly advises against confronting armed individuals.
Broader travel considerations for Colombia
The warning comes amid broader State Department guidance that has, in recent months, urged Americans to reconsider travel to all regions of Colombia because of persistent crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. While Colombia is celebrated for its natural landscapes, vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage, the country continues to grapple with violence stemming from illegal armed groups.
Recent context
In August, western Colombia was struck by a deadly 7.4‑magnitude earthquake that claimed at least 289 lives and destroyed more than 26,000 homes. The disaster underscored the nation’s vulnerability to both natural and human‑made crises, reinforcing the importance of staying informed about safety conditions.
What travelers can do
U.S. citizens planning to travel to Colombia should register their trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real‑time alerts. They should also maintain a copy of their passport, keep emergency contact numbers handy, and consider limiting travel to areas not covered by the advisory. For those already in the affected region, the embassy recommends staying in secure accommodations, avoiding travel after dark, and following any instructions from local authorities.
The State Department will continue to monitor the security situation and update its guidance as needed. Travelers are encouraged to review the latest advisories on the official travel.state.gov website before making any decisions.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
