Is Columbia Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Columbia is the capital and second-largest city of the U.S. state of South Carolina, with a population estimate of 131,674 as of 2019. The city serves as the county seat of Richland County, and a portion of the city extends into neighboring Lexington County.

Warnings & Dangers in Columbia

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Colombia is a medium-security city. However, by taking precautions and avoiding the city's disadvantaged areas, you can safely move around here.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Public transport is reliable and safe. However, pickpocketing on buses is possible. Keep track of your belongings. Taxi is quite safe if you use licensed services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : LOW

Pickpockets are very rare in this city, usually only on crowded public transport during rush hour. Monitor your belongings and your surroundings to avoid this risk.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

There is a significant tornado threat in Colombia. The city has installed a tornado risk alert system. Check the weather conditions before traveling to this city and follow the recommended measures to ensure your safety.

MUGGING RISK : LOW

Serious armed robberies and attacks are rare in Columbia. However, it is better not to run into them once again and avoid the city's dangerous northern areas.

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

There were no terrorist attacks in this city. However, in any case, large gatherings of people and meetings should be avoided.

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

The most common fraud in Columbia is telemarketing when trying to get your information or your credit card information via SMS or email. Do not share this information with scammers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone will feel safe and secure in this city. It is enough to observe the usual precautions and behave in the same way you would in your city.

How Safe Is Columbia for Tourists?

Colombia is a safe city to travel to.

The crime index here is at an average level.

The main problems are associated with petty theft, car theft, and attacks.

However, the city has crime, like everywhere.

Columbia does have gangs, break in’s, car theft, drug problems, and murders.

It is wise to know how to protect yourself, be very aware of your surroundings, and behave in ways that do not invite trouble.

Be friendly but do not offer personal information.

Some parts of town are limited areas, where drugs, prostitution, and alcohol generate crime.

During a tornado, an alert system is triggered in the city, so be sure to listen to the announcements and other alerts.

The city is quite safe for solo travelers.

Just follow the usual precautions and use common sense.

Five Points is a favorite area around the university for late-night bar crawling, and they have also had some problems.

In the season, tornadoes in Colombia can also be unsafe.

You should think over an action plan in advance to ensure your safety if you get to the city at this time.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Columbia?

Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the United States diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt countries or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Columbia?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. It has a sign: $ and a code: USD. Also, it abbreviated US$. One dollar is divided into 100 cents (Symbol: ¢).

How's the Weather like in Columbia?

The summers are hot and muggy here, the winters are cold, and it is wet and partly cloudy year-round. The best times to visit Columbia for ideal weather are mid-March to the end of May.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Columbia?

Columbia Metropolitan Airport is the primary commercial airport for Columbia and the Midlands region of South Carolina. The airport is 8 km southwest of Columbia, in Lexington County, surrounded by the city of Cayce and the towns of Springdale, Pine Ridge, and South Congaree.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Columbia?

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a huge park with animal enclosures and botanical gardens. A diverse collection spanning centuries is on display at the Columbia Museum of Art. Dating to 1823, the Robert Mills House is a mansion and museum surrounded by ornate gardens.

Is the Water in Columbia Safe to Drink?

Tap water in Colombia is not potable. Use bottled tap or boil tap.

Is Uber Safe in Columbia?

There is an Uber taxi in Columbia. The fare will depend on trip length and time of the day. You can call a taxi from the app on a smartphone.