How to Travel Safely as a Solo Female Traveler in Barranquilla, Colombia

1. Local Police Station

A safe haven for emergency situations. Knowing the location can provide peace of mind.

Emergency Assistance: Offers immediate help in case of trouble.
Language Support: Staff can communicate effectively with travelers, even if language barriers exist.
Neighborhood Watch: Participates in the community's safety initiatives, providing additional security.

Hotels and hostels with good reputations provide a safe place to rest.

Secure Facilities: Includes security measures like 24-hour reception, CCTV, and secure lockers.
Reputation: Reviews from other travelers help gauge the level of safety.
Location: Avoid isolated areas for maximum security. Opt for accommodations in populated, well-lit areas.

Shared taxi service specifically designed for women, offering a safe commuting option.

Safety in Numbers: Traveling with other women reduces the risk of harassment or danger.
Vetted Drivers: All drivers are thoroughly background-checked for safety.
Known Routes: Stick to established, safe routes and avoid traveling alone at night.

Restaurants with good reputations offer a safe dining environment.

Secure Environment: Includes proper lighting, safety measures, and attentive staff.
Reputation: Positive reviews from other travelers help gauge the level of safety.
Location: Avoid isolated areas for maximum security. Opt for restaurants and bars in populated, well-lit areas.

Gyms designed specifically for women offer physical and emotional safety.

Safe Space: Provides a secure, empowering environment.
Self-Defense Skills: Offers self-defense classes to boost your personal safety skills.
Community: Builds a strong community of like-minded women for support and camaraderie.

Participating in cultural events helps integrate with the local community and stay safe.

Safety in Numbers: Traveling with other women reduces the risk of harassment or danger.
Community Integration: Establishes trust and friendship with locals who can provide additional safety.
Cultural Understanding: Gaining a deeper understanding of the local customs and norms ensures you blend in seamlessly.

Download safety apps for quick access to emergency services or advice on staying safe.

Emergency Assistance: Allows instant access to help in case of trouble.
Safety Tips and Advice: Provides tips on how to stay safe in different situations.
Community Support: Connects you with other travelers for advice, support, or emergency assistance.

Finding a reliable and trustworthy traveling companion can make your journey safer.

Shared Responsibility: Sharing the responsibilities of travel can alleviate some stress.
Dual Protection: Two people are better than one in potentially dangerous situations.
Companionship: Traveling with a companion can make the journey more enjoyable and less lonely.

Tours designed specifically for women offer a safe traveling experience.

Safety in Numbers: Traveling with other women reduces the risk of harassment or danger.
Knowledgeable Guide: A local guide offers insights on how to stay safe and navigate the city.
Established Routes: Tours stick to established, safe routes and avoid isolated areas.

Knowing the location of a reputable medical clinic or hospital provides peace of mind.

Quality Care: Offers professional, efficient treatment in case of illness or injury.
Language Support: Staff can communicate effectively with travelers, even if language barriers exist.
Location: Avoid isolated areas for maximum security. Opt for clinics and hospitals in populated, well-lit areas.

Attend self-defense workshops to boost your personal safety skills.

Empowerment: Provides the knowledge and confidence needed to protect oneself.
Hands-on Experience: Offers practical, effective self-defense techniques.
Community Support: Connects you with other women for support and camaraderie.

Exchange currency at trusted money exchange centers to avoid scams.

Secure Environment: Includes security measures like cameras, security guards, and proper lighting.
Fair Exchange Rates: Offers competitive exchange rates compared to street vendors or hotels.
Location: Avoid isolated areas for maximum security. Opt for money exchange centers in populated, well-lit areas.

Knowing the location of a reputable pharmacy provides peace of mind.

Quality Medication: Offers genuine, effective medication.
Language Support: Staff can communicate effectively with travelers, even if language barriers exist.
Location: Avoid isolated areas for maximum security. Opt for pharmacies in populated, well-lit areas.

Renting a bike from a trusted shop allows you to explore the city safely.

Secure Equipment: Offers safe, well-maintained bikes and helmets.
Location: Avoid isolated areas for maximum security. Opt for bike rental shops in populated, well-lit areas.
Safety Advice: Provides advice on safe cycling routes and precautions.

City maps and guides help you navigate Barranquilla safely.

Safe Routes: Offers established, safe routes to avoid isolated areas.
Cultural Understanding: Gaining a deeper understanding of the local customs and norms ensures you blend in seamlessly.
Community Support: Connects you with other travelers for advice, support, or emergency assistance.