Is it safe to take yellow taxis off the street?

It is generally safer to use rideshare apps where the route is tracked. If you must use a street taxi, only use those at marked taxi stands or designated hotels.

Do I need to carry my passport everywhere?

No, carry a high-quality photocopy. Keep your original passport in a secure location, like a hotel safe, to avoid losing it.

Getting around Medellín like a local

Use the Metro system and the Metrocable as your primary backbone for travel, supplemented by Uber or Cabify for night trips or cross-city shortcuts. Purchase a Civica card at any major station to tap-in and tap-out of all public transport seamlessly.

Get a Civica card. Go to any major Metro station (like San Antonio or Poblado) with your passport. Request a personal Civica card at the customer service desk. It costs 10,000 COP and allows you to load credit and pay lower fares than buying single-trip tickets.
Master the Metro and Metrocable. The Metro runs North-South. Use the Metrocable lines (K, J, H, M) which are connected to the Metro; your transfer is included in the fare. Do not take photos of the staff or security guards, as this is discouraged.
Use ride-sharing apps at night. Download Uber or Cabify. These are safer and more transparent than street-hailed yellow taxis, especially after 9:00 PM. Always confirm the license plate number matches the app before getting in.
Navigate the bus system. Buses (colectivos) are best for neighborhoods not served by the Metro. Flag them down by waving your hand. Pay the driver directly in cash (small bills preferred). Ask the driver to announce your stop if you are unsure.

Is it safe to take yellow taxis off the street?: It is generally safer to use rideshare apps where the route is tracked. If you must use a street taxi, only use those at marked taxi stands or designated hotels.
Do I need to carry my passport everywhere?: No, carry a high-quality photocopy. Keep your original passport in a secure location, like a hotel safe, to avoid losing it.