ColOmbia is a great place to visit, I have gone there for my reasons, and feel quite safe. Just watch yourself, don't be stupid etc. If on a CO award I would recomend Copa to CLO (Cali) Also Cartagena is supposed to be nice. If you want to go, please do go. And meet lots of beautiful women while you are there. I do not back pack, but I am sure there are plenty of places to backpack. I infact when I have time plan to track from Cartagent to Quito on busses etc...