The recent 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia has raised safety concerns for travelers. Occurring on August 10, the quake struck western Colombia, centered in Chocó, resulting in at least 289 fatalities and over 26,000 homes destroyed. As reported by The Associated Press, communities in the affected area are undergoing recovery from the extensive damage.

Travelers should be cautious as Colombia holds a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnappings, and natural disasters, according to the U.S. State Department. Some regions are under a more severe Level 4 advisory.

U.S. officials have warned travelers about potential criminal targeting, including schemes that use incapacitating drugs for robberies or assaults. The epicenter of the earthquake was near San José del Palmar, approximately 250 miles west of Bogotá.

Footage from Fox News Digital shows significant damage in Pereira, where furniture and belongings lie scattered. Data from Colombia’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism reveals nearly 1.2 million American travelers visited in 2024.

Popular destinations like Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá often host U.S. visitors. Although these areas were not directly hit, travelers should still assess conditions when planning trips.

Travel expert and journalist Angel Castellanos advises checking with airlines about flights and ensuring travel insurance coverage. Castellanos underscores the importance of travel insurance for expensive travel investments like airfare and hotels.

He also recommends enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which registers trips with the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. Castellanos emphasizes this as a precautionary measure for communication in emergencies.