UK FCDO Updates Colombia Travel Advice: Heightened Security in Santa Marta

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its Colombia travel advice on 23 September 2026, adding information on heightened security measures in Santa Marta following a major operation against armed groups. Public order has deteriorated, with damage to vehicles and local businesses and disruption to transport services; schools and many businesses have closed, and a further deployment of police and military is expected. Risks also exist along Route 90 (Troncal del Caribe), which links Santa Marta with Tayrona National Park, Palomino and Riohacha. The FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to multiple areas, including border zones with Venezuela, Pana…