Not so long ago, Colombia found itself at war. A war that lasted decades as the state faced down paramilitary forces and several drug cartels. Over 200,000 civilians lost their lives, and millions were displaced due to the conflict. If you're reading this, you probably have a morbid curiosity about the war and the rise and fall of Colombia's mega-cartels. And you're definitely interested in taking cocaine in Colombia. So let's cut to the chase. 

Today, Colombia's cocaine problem is a drop in the ocean compared to years ago. Even so, it's easy to score cocaine—cheap too. In Colombia's big cities, dealers hang around hostels, hotels, bars, and clubs, trying to sell cigarettes, booze, marijuana, and cocaine to curious tourists.

But in Colombia, more so than anywhere else, you should abstain. We do not condone the use of drugs. Every line is an insult to the victims of Colombia's bloodied past. It is disrespectful to Colombia's friendly, hospitable people – many of whom lost friends and loved ones during the conflict of the '80s and '90s. Oh, and very literal tolerance for purchasing cocaine is shown by Colombia's police force. 

Many believe drugs aren't what cause societal issues. Rather, the violence associated with trading narcotics is the real issue.

Colombia seems to share this viewpoint, with legislation decriminalizing possession of drugs such as cocaine (up to 1 gram) and marijuana (up to 20 grams).

However, if caught with anything more than the above amounts, penalties are severe, with large fines and jail time on the table. Even if you do have less than the above amounts, police will confiscate it on the spot.

The most severe penalties come from being caught buying drugs, something Colombian police are very vigilant with. If caught buying drugs, you will be prosecuted and face an extended period in a Colombian jail.

Legal penalties aside, there is pretty much a zero-tolerance policy for drugs across Colombia. If a hostel caught you in the act, they'd swiftly kick you out.

Medicinal cannabis is legal in Colombia with a prescription from a doctor – allowing for possession of up to 20 grams or the ability to grow 20 personal use plants. However, the chances of being prescribed medicinal cannabis as a tourist in Colombia are slim.

All in all, it's just not worth the risk.

Given that the drug trade is single-handedly responsible for decades of misery, death, and domestic terrorism, it's a topic Colombians feel pretty strongly about. You'd struggle to find many with a good word to say about the narcotics trade, especially when it comes to cocaine.

Colombia's history of cocaine trafficking has attracted its fair share of tourists. With the success of Netflix's 'Narcos,' interest in the topic has increased, and, sadly, a jump in cocaine consumption has followed. Drug tourism is very offensive to Colombians.

The glorification of the cartels in 'Narcos' has left a bitter taste in the mouth while failing to capture the damage it truly wrought. It also presents a version of Colombia that no longer exists, reinforcing prejudices of societal norms that aren't true today.

The turnaround in Colombia since the downfall of the cartels is incredible. But the wounds of that war are still fresh. It still hurts. To take cocaine or any drug for a quick kick is an insult to the atrocities Colombia's people endured, and they will view it as such.

We get the morbid curiosity about Colombia's troubled past, especially if you're looking for the truth rather than some warped dramatization. But Narcotourism isn't looked upon kindly, especially as there is so much more to Colombia.

In Medellín, in particular, Narcotourism has become a problem. Pablo Escobar is undeniably fascinating to tourists in Medellín. But, Colombians in Medellín would prefer never to hear his name spoken aloud and let his infamy remain firmly in the past.

If you must go on some form of Narcotourism or Pablo Escobar tour, be respectful of local wishes. Don't engage in activities or tours that glorify atrocities. Find a knowledgeable, reputable guide who will tell you the facts.