# Updated Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About Colombia in 2026
If you’re planning a Colombian adventure from Ottawa this spring or summer, there’s important information you need to know. The Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for Colombia on March 9, 2026, maintaining a **Level 2 risk designation — Exercise a High Degree of Caution** for most of the country, with higher-risk warnings for specific border regions.
Colombia remains an incredibly popular destination for Canadian travellers drawn to its vibrant cities, coffee region, Caribbean beaches, and rich cultural heritage. However, understanding the current security landscape and preparing appropriately—including getting the right vaccinations and health advice—can make the difference between a dream vacation and a travel nightmare.
## What’s Changed and What It Means
The latest update specifically addresses health considerations for travellers, alongside ongoing security concerns. The advisory maintains that crime remains the primary concern throughout Colombia, with certain border areas subject to “avoid all travel” warnings due to illegal armed groups and criminal organizations. These high-risk zones include areas near the Venezuelan, Ecuadorian, and Panamanian borders, as well as specific departments like Arauca, most of Chocó, and portions of Norte de Santander.
Popular tourist destinations like Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the coffee region around Salento remain accessible under the standard Level 2 advisory, meaning travellers should exercise heightened awareness but can visit with proper precautions.
## Preparing for Your Colombian Journey
For Ottawa travellers, preparation goes beyond checking the security situation. Colombia presents specific health risks that require advance planning. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for certain regions and recommended for most areas outside major cities. Depending on your itinerary, you may also need protection against typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and potentially malaria prophylaxis if visiting rural or jungle areas.
The high-altitude locations like Bogotá (2,640 meters) can cause acute mountain sickness in unprepared visitors. Dengue fever remains prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions below 2,200 meters elevation. Zika virus is also present, requiring specific counselling for pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy.
## Smart Travel Health Planning
A pre-travel health consultation allows you to address these region-specific risks based on your actual itinerary. Whether you’re trekking to Ciudad Perdida, exploring Amazon regions, or staying in urban centers, your health preparation should match your plans. This consultation is also the perfect time to ensure your routine vaccinations are current and to assemble a travel medical kit with prescription medications for travellers’ diarrhea and altitude sickness if needed.
Don’t wait until the last minute—some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks to provide full protection.
Travelling to Colombia? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.