While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Colombian laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Colombia are strict, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and fines. U.S. citizens arrested in Colombia for drug-related offenses may experience several months' detention in jail before their cases are processed.
Prison conditions are sub-standard.
Colombia is an earthquake-prone country.