How Expats End Up Dead in Colombia: A Serious Issue

One of the most delicate topics to address is how some expats—often called “Gringos”—end up dead in Colombia. This is not a lighthearted matter; it’s a serious issue that demands attention, far from the idyllic images of sunshine, arepas, and jeep willys commonly associated with the country. Understanding the risks and realities of life in Colombia is essential for anyone considering a move or extended stay.

How To Avoid Winding Up Dead in Colombia

The Tragic Reality of Expats and Bribery in Colombia: A Case in Cartago

While it’s a dark and difficult topic to discuss, we recently learned about a foreign resident in Colombia who may have been shot for failing to pay a bribe. This information came to us from one of our followers via a news report in Cartago, Valle del Cauca.

Based on a brief investigation by a trusted friend, we believe the individual may have found themselves in the wrong situation by pursuing the legal route without addressing a “cola de paja,” or “straw tail”—a term referring to an issue that can easily be exploited.

We’ve lost sleep over this, wondering how we can help prevent such tragedies from happening again. It’s crucial for expats to understand the importance of navigating the local legal and social landscape carefully to avoid dangerous situations.

Choosing the Right Pueblo: Navigating Safety and Violence in Colombia

Unfortunately, some areas in Colombia are more prone to violence than others. I still remember the first time I heard gunshots—it felt surreal, and I honestly thought it was just a car backfiring. But in reality, it was five shots to the body of a man who, tragically, seemed to have been marked for death.

While Colombia boasts many beautiful pueblos (small towns), some carry a dark past and face ongoing struggles. Towns like Cartago, Valle, and Chinchina, Caldas, continue to grapple with serious issues, though these are just two examples of many. We hesitate to name too many places, as it could lead to unnecessary risk or stereotyping.

This is why it’s essential to consult with someone who truly knows the area before deciding where to settle. Seek advice from a local family member, tourism authority, or an experienced expat consultant who is actively engaged with the community—not just someone sitting behind a desk. Remember, not all pueblos are created equal, and some are safer than others.

Getting Involved with Too Many People: A Cautionary Approach

In Colombia, gaining popularity can be relatively easy, especially if you have a little more money than the average person. In rural pueblos, where the average daily wage is only around $10 USD, money is not as abundant as it may seem at first glance.

There’s a phrase here: Tan metida, which translates to “so involved.” Coming from a social desert like the US or Canada, it’s tempting to connect with everyone you meet, but this can have its consequences. The more people you interact with, the more likely it is that your business will be known. Sharing too much with the wrong person could lead to unwanted problems.

While it’s important to be friendly with everyone, it’s also wise to be selective about how much time and personal information you share. If you happen to connect with a good family or a trusted group of locals, keep them close. They can offer valuable guidance, especially if you’re living in a pueblo. Without this support network, it can be difficult to tell friend from foe.

Tierra Caliente: Hot Earth

“Tierra Caliente” carries a double meaning—both the climate and the security situation. Hotter climates are often preferred by those involved in illicit activities, as they provide cover and convenience. This means it’s essential to wear a good sunhat and stay aware of local customs and practices.

While the 84.5% statistic about narco-traffickers is purely fictional, the point remains: warmer climates often attract “hot” situations. When choosing where to settle, prioritize areas with good security and fewer criminal influences.

Know What to Look For

How can you tell if you’ve stumbled into an area dominated by mafia or cartel activity?

One sign to watch for is the “pinta,” a distinctive look often seen in certain areas, especially in pueblos with warmer climates where some individuals may feel invincible to crime. The “pinta” includes men sporting gold chains, multiple gold rings, and a button-up shirt that’s unbuttoned just enough to be noticeable—usually stopping short of the sternum.

Women who fit this “pinta” often display bold, curvaceous features with a sculpted waist, often enhanced by cosmetic procedures. Expect to see large, botox-enhanced lips, glamorous outfits, fake eyelashes, and long, dramatic nails. If you see this style becoming prevalent in a neighborhood, it could be a red flag.

Failure to Pay La Vacuna Can Be Deadly in Colombia

In Colombia, “La Vacuna” (protection money) is a reality for many. Choosing not to pay or opting for the legal route can place you in a dangerous situation—unless you can afford professional security. Failure to protect yourself or comply with these demands could literally be a matter of life or death.

This is not a place for heroics. In Colombia, heroes often meet tragic ends—not in a fair fight, but at the hands of those who control these areas. As mentioned earlier, unless you’re prepared with the resources to hire proper security, your best options are to either pay the protection money or leave the area entirely.

Dead Men Tell No Tales: A Word of Caution

There’s an old pirate saying: “Dead men tell no tales.” Unfortunately, this saying still holds true in places with serious issues, like Colombia. If you happen to witness something dangerous, it might be wise to take a step back, reconsider your surroundings, or even take a break from the area.

This is why Colombians often say, “Ver, oír y callar”—see, hear, and stay silent. Unless you’re equipped with the resources to hire a personal bodyguard until things settle down, it’s best to keep your observations to yourself.

We’re not suggesting you interfere with investigations or withhold information in the face of a crime. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of what you say and who you share it with. If you’ve accidentally witnessed something unsettling, discretion is your best course of action.

Remember, dead men tell no tales—even the foreign ones who end up dead in Colombia.

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Conclusion

Are these the ramblings of an adventurer or the sage advice of someone who knows? At the time of writing, our lead journalist has been in Colombia for nearly 10 years. With countless experiences in various places, let’s just say we’ve learned a lot—even at the expense of some danger and mayhem.

This is how gringos end up dead in Colombia, and unfortunately, it’s a trend on the rise. In our investigations, we consistently find that those who meet untimely ends are often violating one or more of the pieces of advice we’ve shared above.

The obvious issue here is the role of drugs and cheap sex. The danger in those situations is clear, but rather than focus on the obvious, we’ve chosen to address the other contributing factors.

We love Colombia—its people and the biodiversity that makes our photos so special. But we’re also seeing newcomers heading to risky places without proper guidance.

If you want assistance navigating Colombia safely, we offer consulting services to help you avoid trouble and find better opportunities. If you have someone you trust, listen carefully to their advice and prioritize your safety.

For consulting inquiries, contact Erin at CoffeeAxisTravel@gmail.com to learn how we can help you find a safe and fulfilling lifestyle in the right places.

If you’re in a difficult situation and need private security, reach out to us. We have trusted contacts, including lawyers and bodyguards, who can help ensure your safety and keep you from becoming another tragic statistic in Colombia.

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