south america travel safety

Is It Safe in South America?

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South America—home of the famous Machu Picchu , Rio de Janeiro , Buenos Aires , Patagonia , and more—attracts roughly 37 million tourists per year. Naturally, due to the presence of rebel groups and its notoriously violent illegal drug trade, parts of the continent have been deemed unsafe for tourism. But even Colombia , widely avoided as a travel destination until the early aughts, has turned its reputation around in recent years. There are many places to visit in South America if you practice basic safety and stay away from certain areas and activities.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory ("reconsider travel") for all South American countries except Uruguay , which remains a Level 2 ("exercise increased caution"), and Argentina , Brazil , and Venezuela , all under a Level 4 ("do not travel").
• Prior to 2020, all but one were under a Level 2 due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and/or civil unrest. Venezuela has been placed under a Level 4 due to "crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest, and detention of U.S. citizens," the advisory says .

Is South America Dangerous?

While some parts of South America have been deemed dangerous by the U.S. Department of State, much of the continent is perfectly safe to visit. Travelers are advised to avoid the entire country of Venezuela due to ongoing political instability. Parts of Colombia—Arauca, Cauca (except Popayan), Chocó (except Nuquí), Nariño, and Norte de Santander (except Cucuta)—are also under a Level 4 because of crime, terrorism, and kidnapping  . In 2019, the U.S. Department of State warned of "K risks" in 35 countries following the kidnapping of American tourist Kimberly Sue Endicott in Uganda  . Venezuela and Colombia were the only two South American countries on the list.

The safest places in the continent seem to be the stunning beaches of French Guiana, Uruguay, the volcano-laden nation of Chile, Suriname (South America's smallest), Paraguay, and Argentina. Wherever you go, leave your valuables at home and travel with an abundance caution.

Is South America Safe for Solo Travelers?

South America is safe for solo travelers so long as they stick to low-risk areas and remain vigilant. Many of its cities and countries are popular tourist destinations with countless hostels frequented by the backpacker set. Solo travelers should stick to these areas— Bogota, Colombia ; Jijoca de Jericoacoara, Brazil; Santiago de Chile , Chile; Mendoza, Argentina; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for instance—and only travel to more remote or dangerous areas with a licensed tour guide. As with any city, solo travelers should avoid going out alone at night and taking solo taxi rides. Kidnappings happen, so use the buddy system as often as possible.

Is South America Safe for Female Travelers?

Women travel to South America all the time—often in groups, sometimes alone—and many of them return home with only positive experiences. Women's rights are not as progressive in South America as they are in the U.S.   and there are frequent reports of domestic violence in many countries; however, this doesn't generally put female travelers at risk. Because of South America's very macho, chauvinistic culture, women may experience cat calling or other hassle from men. What they should really keep an eye out for, though, is pickpocketing and other non-violent crime. Female travelers are vulnerable, especially when alone, so they should keep their guards up and travel in groups when possible.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Homosexuality is legal in every South American country except Guyana, where it is punishable by life imprisonment (although that rule is rarely enforced). Same-sex marriage is illegal in seven countries: Bolivia, Chile, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. Anti-discrimination laws are in place everywhere except Guyana, Paraguay, and parts of Argentina. Travelers should know the laws of the countries they intend to visit, and try to avoid public displays of affection even where it's legal as violence towards LGBTQ+ individuals and couples still occurs.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Demographics vary by country—for instance, Argentina is 85 percent white whereas Suriname is primarily Black and East Indian  . Bolivia is 55 percent Amerindian while 75 percent of Paraguay's population identifies as mestizo  . South America, as a whole, is a melting pot of races and ethnicities, and the vast majority of it is extremely hospitable and welcoming. That being said, racism is prevalent (as it is throughout the world), and exists in various forms. So long as BIPOC travelers stick to the tourist-centric places where locals are more exposed to diversity and are therefore more accepting, they shouldn't encounter any trouble.

Safety Tips for Travelers

• Colombians have a saying, no dar papaya (don't give papaya), which means "don't be stupid," or—in other words—don't put yourself in a position to be taken advantage of. Travelers should walk with confidence, stay aware, and avoid looking like a target.
• Educate yourself on the current affairs of your destination and avoid demonstrations or any unrest while there.
• Keep in mind that pickpockets often work in pairs or groups. One or more will distract you while another does the stealing.
• Learn and practice basic Spanish or Portuguese in case of an emergency.
• Wear appropriate clothing for the locale and situation. Dress like the locals and conceal any valuable possessions (iPhones, cameras, jewelry, etc.).
• It's always a good idea to register with your embassy or consulate before traveling abroad.

U.S. Department of State. " Uruguay Travel Advisory ." November 23, 2020.

U.S. Department of State. " Argentina Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

U.S. Department of State. " Brazil Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

U.S. Department of State. " Venezuela Travel Advisory ." October 30, 2020.

U.S. Department of State. " Colombia Travel Advisory ." October 30, 2020.

U.S. Department of State. " Introduction of K Risk Indicator ." April 9, 2019.

United Nations. " More women in Latin America are working, but gender gap persists, new UN figures show ." October 28, 2019.

Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades, UAEM. " Composición Étnica de las Tres Áreas Culturales del Continente Americano al Comienzo del Siglo XXI ." 2008.

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8 Safest Countries in South America: Data Ranked (Travel Guide)

Thinking about traveling to South America, but wondering which country to go to? In this article, you’ll see which countries are considered to be the safest according to data, and not the opinions of tourism marketing. You’ll also learn about some interesting places to visit in each country.

The safest countries in South America are Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina. This is according to the Global Peace Index. It compares three factors, which are explained in this post. Other safe countries include Paraguay, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

PLEASE NOTE: The following information on safety is not my personal opinion or from my personal experience. This comes from the 2022 Global Peace Index Report from Vision of Humanity ( Download PDF report ), which ranks 163 countries around the world. Any travel warnings listed below have been found on travel.state.gov .

Safest South American Countries: Ranking System

How are these countries ranked? The lower the number, the safer the country.

You might be wondering how these countries are ranked. The Global Peace Index uses 23 indicators divided into 3 main sections as to how peaceful/violent an area is. These factors are then assigned a number from 1-5 to show how much weight each carries to their score. This can be found on pages 76 and 77 of the GPI.

As a quick summary, here are the 3 main sections that determine each country’s score:

• Ongoing Domestic and Internation Conflict: Duration and intensity of conflicts, number of deaths, and relationship to neighboring countries are some of the factors looked at.
• Societal Safety and Security: Political instability, refugees, terrorism, violent crimes, murders, number of incarcerated, and police are some examples of this section.
• Militarisation: Military expenses, armed services personnel, how much contributed to UN peacekeeping missions, and nuclear and heavy weapons capabilities are some points that contribute here.

The guide is part of an ongoing series covering regions around the world. Learn more about the  safest countries in Africa , Central America , Asia , and Europe .

8 Safest Countries in South America: The List

Here is the list of the safest countries in South America, with some stats on crime and safety.

You’ll also learn about some things to do if you decide to visit. Let’s begin!

• Safety Score: 1.795
• Worldwide Rank: 46
• Population: 3,422,794 (2022)
• Capital City: Montevideo
• Tourists Per Year: 3,000,000 (2019)

Uruguay is considered to be the safest country in South America . In fact, it’s one of the top 50 safest countries in the world for 2022.

For places to visit in Uruguay, the capital city of Montevideo is a popular tourist destination. If resorts are more your speed, then the seaside resort city of Punta del Este might be the place for you. You could also visit the hot springs of Arapey or Daymán.

According to travel.state.gov, Uruguay is at a level 2 advisory, or to exercise increased caution due to crime. Some advice would be not wearing or displaying signs of wealth, and being careful in the dark.

• Safety Score: 1.84
• Worldwide Rank: 55
• Population: 19,450,473 (2022)
• Capital City : Santiago
• Tourists Per Year: 5,000,000 (2019)

Chile is number 2 on this list, and just outside the top 50 in the world. This long and thin country, with a coastline of over 4,000 miles (6,437 km) and only 61 miles (91 km) wide, boasts a variety of tourist spots.

If you’re looking for some nature tourism, Chile might be just for you. From visiting the Andes Mountains to the Atacama Desert (the driest place on Earth), or taking a flight to Easter Island, you won’t be bored in this country.

Some caution is needed when traveling in Chile (Level 2 caution; travel.state.gov). Some civil unrest and demonstrations on a bigger scale can happen in Santiago or other cities. Some advice given by travel.state.gov is to keep a low profile, avoid demonstrations, and obey instructions of the local authorities (including curfews).

Here are some of the most popular Chilean foods , including traditional dishes, drinks, and desserts.

3. Argentina

• Safety Score: 1.911
• Worldwide Rank: 69
• Population: 47,427,407 (2022)
• Capital City : Buenos Aires
• Tourists Per Year: 7,400,000 (2019)

Argentina is number three on our list, and it seems to have it all.

Want to go to the most southern city on Earth? Visit Ushuaia, where you can go skiing, hiking, or take a cruise to Antarctica. Want to see some glaciers? You can visit Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Want something on the warmer side? How about Mar del Plata Beaches, Argentina’s top resort city?

Despite being number three on this list, travel.state.gov has Argentina at Level 1, which is to exercise normal precautions when traveling there. Argentina also has the most amount of tourists per year of the countries on the list.

4. Paraguay

• Safety Score: 1.976
• Worldwide Rank: 77
• Population: 7,311,023 (2022)
• Capital City: Asunción
• Tourists Per Year: 4,370,000 (2019)

Paraguay is number four on our South American safety list, and number three for the number of tourists.

You can visit such natural sites in Paraguay as the Salto Monday waterfalls, the Rio Paraguay, and Ybycuí National Park. Or if engineering is your thing, you can visit the Itaipú Dam, which in 1994 was elected as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Itaipú Dam is on the Parana River, one of the longest rivers in South America .

Travel.state.gov has Paraguay at a Level 1 travel advisory, meaning to exercise normal precautions, with some areas having an increased crime risk (like Amambay, Alto Paraná, Canindeyu, San Pedro, and Concepcion departments).

• Safety Score: 1.988
• Worldwide Rank: 79
• Population: 18,122,279 (2022)
• Capital City: Quito
• Tourists Per Year: 2,000,000 (2019)

The fifth safest South American country, Ecuador has many incredible places to go despite its relatively small size.

You can visit the world-famous Galapagos Islands (and the Galapagos Giant Tortoises), climb Mount Chimborazo, take in some history in Quito , or relax on beautiful beaches like Montañita or Salinas.

You might want to visit some of Ecuador’s famous landmarks , national parks , or volcanoes .

For more information on things to see in Ecuador, check out Best Things to Do in Ecuador (Epic Guide) .

Due to civil unrest and crime, Ecuador is at a Level 2 advisory. At the time of writing, these areas are to be avoided due to crime: Carchi, Sucumbíos, Esmeraldas city (and the northern part of Esmeraldas provinces), and south of Portete de Tarquí Avenue in Guayaquil.

• Safety Score: 1.989
• Worldwide Rank: 80
• Population: 12,224,110 (2022)
• Capital City: Sucre (official, judicial capital); La Paz (de facto, administrative capital)
• Tourists Per Year: 1,240,000 (2019)

Bolivia, the sixth safest country in South America, has many attractions to choose from.

You can visit the Uyuni Salt Flats, the world’s largest salt flat at over 3,900 square miles (over 10,000 square kilometers). There are also 6 UNESCO world heritage sites to choose from, the ruins of Tiwanaku, parts of the Amazon, and Fort Samaipata. Then there’s Lake Titicaca, the highest lake that large ships can navigate.

Bolivia is at a Level 2 advisory due to civil unrest, so keep an eye out for demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks.

Check out these 25 tasty Bolivian foods .

• Safety Score: 2.091
• Worldwide Rank: 101
• Population: 33,697,187 (2022)
• Capital City: Lima
• Tourists Per Year: 5,280,000 (2019)

Peru is the seventh safest country in South America, and the only country in South America I’ve been to, personally traveling there with a good friend in 2013.

The capital, Lima is a cool city with many sites to explore. No doubt, if you’re traveling to Peru, you’re wanting to see Machu Picchu and Cusco, which are definitely worth the trip (though be warned, altitude sickness is a real thing. I was down for three days because of it in Cusco). My friend and I were also able to experience sandboarding on dunes just outside of Lima, a must-try in my opinion.

That being said, at the time of writing, due to increased crime in certain areas, Peru is currently at a Level 3 advisory (reconsider travel). There are warnings to avoid traveling to certain areas altogether.

Have you heard of these delicious Peruvian foods ?

• Safety Score: 2.14
• Worldwide Rank: 107
• Population: 794,304 (2022)
• Capital City: Georgetown
• Tourists Per Year: 315,000 (2019)

Guyana rounds out our list of safest South American countries and is the only country with English as its official language.

Not a lot of people visit Guyana per year, but there are definitely some beautiful places to visit. You can visit the Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall. Other attractions include the Essequibo River, Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, and looking for one of the world’s largest water lilies, the Victoria amazonica.

Guyana is at a Level 3 advisory due to crime, like Peru. It would be wise to follow such advice as not traveling in the dark and not displaying any signs of wealth.

FAQ About Safety in South America

What is the safest country in south america.

The safest country in South America is Uruguay. All of these countries in the top 8 list above rank higher than the United States (129) in the GPI.

What is the safest Spanish-speaking country in South America?

The safest Spanish-speaking country in South America is Uruguay.

See more in our Guide to Spanish Speaking Countries .

What is the most stable country in South America?

Uruguay is the most stable country in South America, having been in the top two in the GPI for South America since 2018 (or 5 GPI reports), and number one in the last three reports.

Argentina has consistently scored similar scores (1.911 to 1.989) in the last 5 reports. On the other hand, Chile, despite being at number two in 2022, has had a wider range of scores, going from its lowest score of 1.634 to 1.84 over the last few reports.

What are the most dangerous countries in South America?

Venezuela (148th worldwide) is considered the most dangerous country in South America, and one of the most dangerous in the world, according to the GPI 2022.

Brazil and Colombia (130 and 144 worldwide respectively) round out the three most dangerous countries.

Why is there a country missing from the list?

The Global Peace Index only covers 163 countries around the world, which includes 99.7 percent of the population. Depending on which estimate or definition of “country” you see, there could be as many as 206 countries in the world, so the GPI doesn’t cover all of these areas, for whatever reason.

So a South American country like Suriname is not listed in the GPI. Another reason is that certain countries may be linked to other areas, like Trinidad and Tobago (Central America) and French Guiana (France)

This is a quick guide to the safest countries in South America. But like with any travel plans (not limited to South America), please do more research and exercise caution, so you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Where do you want to travel in South America? Where have you already gone, and what did you experience there? Is there anything we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments below!

Hello, I'm Joshua Diegor . My love for travel began I was 18 when I went with some friends to New York City. All in all, I've traveled to 6 continents and 14 countries.

I'm a regular contributor to Storyteller Travel .

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Oh, you’re including it in the central America section

Hi, thank you for your post; how come you aren’t including Panama as a safe country please?

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13 Safest Countries in South America (Ranked by Safety Level)

Unfortunately, South America has a bunch of stories about violence and political crimes.

Nevertheless, the situation improves slowly.

Being a popular destination among tourists, this continent still makes people think about the safety of their journey.

Of course, there are places that are really safe and places tourists should avoid so it’s important to learn some safety rules before visiting South America.

After learning the statistics of global safety indexes, peace ratings, and governmental travel advisories, we’ve prepared the rank of the safest countries for traveling in South America.

13. Venezuela

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Venezuela is known as one of the most beautiful countries on the continent.

Also, it has a really warm climate.

Nevertheless, it’s one of the least safe countries for traveling in South America.

The main reason for such a low position is the growth of crippling and corruption.

As a result, there is starvation, extreme and even violent unrest as well as mass exodus among the locals.

As the situation in the country led to desperation among the citizens the number of crimes grows significantly.

According to the  United States Department of State, it’s better to avoid visiting Venezuela under any circumstances.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Venezuela Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: HIGH
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: HIGH
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: HIGH
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

The history of Colombia knows the periods when safety issues were really important throughout the country.

There are still lots of alive witnesses that remember those rebellious periods full of violence and drug trafficking.

Fortunately, during the past years, the situation improved significantly.

Just 25 years ago Medellin was known as the most dangerous place in the world but now it’s a popular tourist spot and a destination for numerous tech companies.

Nevertheless, there is still a bunch of problems such as corruption, distrust in the government, targeted killings, and terrorism.

Taking your trip to Colombia, you should be cautious of petty crimes and learn the areas that should be avoided in any case.

Despite all the listed above, Colombia is among the 40 happiest countries in the world.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Colombia Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Guyana is a northeastern country in South America that is unfortunately not well known among tourists.

There is no certain info about safety issues in Guyana which causes lots of discussions about its place in our list.

Nevertheless, traveling there, you can have a great time exploring its capital city  Georgetown .

As the latest reports show there are not so many cases of pickpocketing, armed robbery, and assault in Guyana.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Guyana Safety Review

• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

The Global Peace Index 2018 named Brazil as the 3rd lowest rated country on the continent placing it above Venezuela and Colombia.

Being a popular tourist destination for a long time, Brazil is a rather safe place with good tourist infrastructure.

Nevertheless, such crimes as “snatch and grabs” and robberies are really widespread especially when it comes to grand events like the famous Carnival.

Most tourists coming to Brazil want to visit low-income districts and are popular among local favelas which just increases the risk of becoming a crime victim.

If you decided to visit Brazil, it’s better to stay at the Rio de Janeiro harbor.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Brazil Safety Review

• MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Suriname is another not-so-popular destination that is pretty safe but still a better choice for experienced travelers.

The capital city Paramaribo is not so big and has a poor tourist infrastructure that requires some extra caution at night.

Visiting this country, it’s more likely that the maximum you can experience is confused stares.

The main thing you should be aware of during your stay in Suriname is mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika, malaria, and yellow fever.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Suriname Safety Review

• SCAMS RISK: LOW

Considering Peru ‘s popularity among tourists, it can be surprising that it’s only in the middle of the list.

Nevertheless, there are such issues as citizen security and areas that should be for sure avoided in Peru.

As there is a lack of police in the eastern Andes, there are cases of such illegal activities as unregulated mining and narco-trafficking.

Of course, it’s easy to avoid these areas but still, you should be aware of mugging that is widely spread in big cities.

Visiting Peru, you need to pay attention to the safety of your belongings especially gadgets and documents.

Being cautious enough, you can have an excellent time in Peru.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Peru Safety Review

• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

French Guiana cannot be considered as a country as it’s more like a French colony.

Nevertheless, safety issues still have a place there.

Despite it having the backing of the European economy, French Guiana can be called a wealthy country.

The capital city Cayenne has only 60K citizens.

Petty crimes such as nighttime robberies are the most widely spread there.

Also, demonstrations are a common thing in French Guiana.

Most of them are rather peaceful but still, they can become confrontational easily.

It’s a common fact that poverty and crimes come together.

Nevertheless, being a really poor country, Bolivia is known as a tourist-friendly destination in South America.

In fact, the only widespread type of crime there is the one related to ATMs.

It means that tourists should be really cautious while taking their money out.

One another point you should remember is the altitude.

The capital  La Paz is situated 11,942 feet above sea level so tourists can feel woozy there.

To make your stay there better, you just need to use some caution during the first days while you get used.

In fact, there are lots of improvements in the country including the famous Yungas Road which is not the scariest road in the world anymore.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Bolivia Safety Review

Speaking of safety in Ecuador , most crimes there aren’t violent.

Visiting such big cities as  Quito , you just need to watch your wallet but not more than while visiting any other city in the world.

Tourists in Ecuador can feel safe as the government established some police forces to help foreigners.

The only safety issue you need to worry about while you stay in Ecuador is your health.

Don’t drink any tap water and be careful with food as poisoning is very common there.

Also, avoid visiting bordering regions especially those which border Colombia.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Ecuador Safety Review

According to the  Global Peace Index, Paraguay is very close to Ecuador.

In fact, there are just a few precautions for travelers.

Considering the fact it’s not so popular among tourists, there aren’t many places where they can be targeted.

There are petty crimes and kidnapping issues but usually, it’s local farmers who can face it.

The only real caution that should be mentioned is about large gatherings especially when it comes to soccer matches as locals are really passionate about it.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Paraguay Safety Review

Being one of the three safest countries in South America, Argentina can offer a high level of safety for tourists.

Buenos Aires , as well as other big cities, have some districts that should be avoided of course.

Visiting northern regions such as Salta make sure you take a bug spray to protect yourself from mosquitos.

Also, you should know that medical services there are of high quality and absolutely free.

Recently there was a rise in political unease due to economic regression but still, it hasn’t caused any problems.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Argentina Safety Review

Uruguay is not only one of the safest countries in South America but also the most “chill” one.

This country is known for its laidback atmosphere, the café culture of Western Europe, and the ability to enjoy the finer things in life.

Also, it’s one of the countries with the highest trust in government as 96% of all Uruguayans vote in voluntary democratic elections.

One other point is that not unlike most countries in South America, Uruguay has a low possibility of natural disasters.

In fact, it’s an excellent destination for those who want to “seek out” as well as for those who look for attractions, beautiful places, and new friends.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Uruguay Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
• MUGGING RISK: LOW

Being one of the safest countries in the region, Chile usually takes 25-30 in the global ranking of the safest countries.

There is an absolutely low crime rate and tourists have a bunch of destinations to choose from.

Prepare a good hiking guide and enjoy your time exploring amazing National Parks, routes in Patagonia, and other wild regions.

Just make sure you won’t get lost!

The only threat you should be aware of is earthquakes but still, there is no need to worry too much about it as it’s not a common thing there.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Chile Safety Review

South America can be great, but it depends on where you go, and in any case, don’t forget to use caution while traveling anywhere.

We’ve made this list into an image if you wish to save or share:

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s a close call here between Chile and Uruguay. Chile scored 79 and Uruguay 77, that is very close and you can say they pretty much tie for the safest country in South America.

There are several good options – Uruguay, Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, and Paraguay.

These five countries are the friendliest to foreigners, from my experience I can say Argentina is where I felt people were the friendliest.

Uruguay has the lowest crime rate.

Crime in South America, per 100,000 on average, is higher than the crime per 100,000 in the United States, meaning, the United States is considered safer than South America.

Take this information as you will, consider that the US and South America are big and it’s a bit of a vague answer, it will be better to narrow it down and compare a state to a country, for example, comparing Florida to Chile, or Costa Rica to California will give you a better answer depending on which country in South America you want to compare with.

The number one place goes to Cuenca, Ecuador.

The second richest city is Sao Paulo, Brazil.

There isn’t a definitive answer to this, but I think Santiago de Chile will take first place.

Other modern cities include Panama City and Montevideo.

Additional Resources

2 Comments on 13 Safest Countries in South America (Ranked by Safety Level)

How is the terrorism risk in Venezuela and Colombia low, but in Japan it is medium? That is delusional, considering that there a constant clashes between FARC dissidents and ELN as well as right-wing paramilitary groups. Especially at the border of Colombia and Venezuela ( Arauca department). Killings and bombings in that area have left hundreds of civilians dead in recent years and it got worse in 2022. There have even been bombings in Bogota carried out by guerilla groups during the last five years.

Great list. Thank you!

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The Big Book of Safety: 32 tips for safe travel in South America

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

Thanks to various reputational blows and scary news headlines, people don’t expect to find safe travel in South America easy. When I first left the UK, my parents’ biggest concern was that I was going to end up coerced into some drugs ring somewhere, not to be seen until I ended up on the 10 o’clock news having been caught for trying to smuggle cocaine through an international airport in my knickers.

LUCKILY, they were just being bloody ridiculous, and across my 19 months in South America (plus a further 7 months in Central America) the most troubling crime I ever encountered was that time that I  was wrongly accused of stealing cash from a girl in my hostel in Rosario . Still bitter.

My parents did have some semblance of a point, though. Crime follows poverty, and there’s no skirting around the fact that South America has an awful lot of poverty. Even the nicest of you would get caught up in a tangle of mishaps if it was the only way to feed your family.

It’s easy to have a burning hatred for criminals, but the more you see what some people call ‘home’ and learn about the institutional and societal forces that completely stunt upwards social mobility in certain communities, you may find yourself taking a softer stance.

Anyway, I’m not here to excuse criminal activity, I’m here to give you lots and lots of helpful tips for safe travel in South America! The below advice (consisting of basic 101s, petty crime, violent crime, financial and transport safety tips) will hopefully greatly reduce your risk of falling foul of common issues in the region.

There’s a huge amount of socioeconomic, cultural and geographic diversity across South America which affects what you need to be looking out for, but it’s easy to adapt as you pick up tips from new people along your journey.

After this guide to safe travel in South America, you may also enjoy reading:

• Top 10 safest Latin American countries to travel to in 2021
• 50+ bits of know-how for backpacking in South America
• Staying safe and comfortable on night buses in South America

This all being said, please don’t let this information scare you. I like to have a ‘pase lo que pase/what happens, happens’ view to stumbling my way around South America, and I know that I wouldn’t enjoy myself half as much if I spent my time constantly worried about all the bad things that  could  occur.

Yes, there are risks, but with each day that you travel, the below tips for safe travel in South America will become more and more engrained in your way of life as second nature, until you don’t even realise you’re employing them. Stick to the safest countries in Latin America , and you’ll have even more chances of keeping secure.

But honestly, chill. You’re gonna be fine!

You can download these 32 tips for safe travel in South America as an e-book to carry around with you if you subscribe to my mailing list, here .

Want to skip to something in particular?

Basic tips for safe travel in South America

If you do nothing else, make sure to master these basic bits of advice for enjoyable and safe travel in South America!

1. Trust your gut

This tip for safe travel in South America HAD to come first. Humans have evolved to subconsciously pick up behavioural micro-cues, so your gut actually tends to be a pretty good indicator of a situation.

I think a lot of us feel obligated to suffer through certain circumstances in order to remain polite, but you should never feel too embarrassed to walk out of an uncomfortable place, sale or conversation when your gut is screaming blue murder at you.

2. Agree on your price beforehand for everything

EEEEVERYTHING. Be very clear about what you’re paying, and for what. Unless you also see locals paying upfront too, don’t pay until you have received the full service.

If you’re feeling uneasy, ask for a receipt ( recibo in both Spanish and Portuguese).

3. Book at least one night of accommodation in a new city

As if long journeys between cities weren’t enough, looking for accommodation around a new destination with all your valuables on your back and clearly no idea where you’re going is not a great start to safe travel in South America.

Always book at least your first night, then you know where to head to from your transport terminal, and you won’t be caught aimlessly wandering the streets of a random neighbourhood. If you love it, stay another few nights, and if it’s grim, you can still be a free-spirited backpacker and play your next move by ear now that you’ve had a chance to see what the city offers.

4. Never let your stuff out of your sight

You’d be surprised how quickly your things can go walkies when you leave them alone out of your view. I’m assuming you’ll be travelling with a larger backpack for clothes (ladies, here’s my review of the Osprey Auro 50L backpack !) and a smaller rucksack for your valuables, like I do. Your larger backpack should be heavy enough to deter most people, but they might still have a fumble for goodies inside.

If you’re trying to ensure safe travel in South America without a well-trusted buddy, your smaller bag needs to accompany you everywhere until you can lock it up somewhere secure.

5. Listen to the locals

Locals have spent their whole lives getting to know their hometown like the back of their hands, so when they tell you not to go down certain streets or behave in certain ways, make sure you listen to them.

Locals are definitely some of the best sources of info for safe travel in South America, and in lots of destinations we came across strangers who were compassionate enough to take time out of their own day to give advice to tourists they’d seen making rookie safety mistakes.

6. Remember that other travellers are just as much of a risk

Going to developing countries, I think a lot of travellers assume that their only threat is poor local people who are desperate or morally void in some way (yes, some people really think that). However, of the crime I’ve heard about or witnessed in South America, a significant proportion has actually been committed by other backpackers – mostly petty theft from empty hostel dorms.

While I don’t want you to spend the entirety of South America trip on-edge, don’t let your guard down when you arrive at your accommodation just because you’re back to being around people who look or sound like you.

7. Healthcare in South America can be cheap, but travel insurance is still a must

Accidents happen, even to the most healthy of backpackers, and you really want to be prepared for any wallops that come your way.

Mine and Andy’s long-term backpacking travel insurance saved us about £1200 in the first year of backpacking in South America alone. We found them very quick and easy to work through a claim with, plus they allowed us to purchase a long-term policy without being in our home country at that time, which surprisingly few travel insurance companies do.

8. A little lingo goes a long way

Knowing just a teeny bit can help you communicate to locals what help you need, and can solidify trust if they see that you’re at least trying to learn their language.

If you want to go further to ensure safe travel in South America, I highly recommend spending some time at a school in one of the best destinations to learn Spanish , or at the very least pick up a Spanish phrases CD or book .

9. Make sure someone out there knows where you’re going

Even if it’s just the girl who sits on the reception desk of your hostel or your grandma on WhatsApp, make sure someone has some clue as to where you’re off to each day, especially if you’re on your own.

They’ll have a lot better idea of when to start looking on the rare occasion that you end up going missing.

Fend off petty crime for safe travel in South America

10. stay alert for safe south america travel.

Keep your wits about you. Ask the hostel in any new destination to let you know of any scams , areas or tour companies to avoid.

Of course, let your hair down, but always know who’s around you, where you are and never ever ever let your stuff out of your sight.

Professional pickpockets are quiiiiiiiick, and you probably won’t even realise you’ve lost anything for a fair while.

11. Know your surroundings

One of the easiest ways to label yourself as a target in destinations known for petty theft is to wander around looking like you don’t have the foggiest idea of where you are or where you’re trying to go.

Know your barrios (there are places you need to avoid in every city in the world, including your own hometown), check maps before you head out, and walk as though you have at least an indication of what you’re doing.

12. Keep your passport in your hostel

I’m not really sure why so many people are adamant on taking their passport out with them day-to-day. I don’t even trust myself to do that in England without losing it immediately.

Well-rated hostels in South America are generally pretty trust-worthy, and you should only be staying in accommodation that provides some form of locker. In some hostels and hotels, they will ask you to put your passport behind the reception desk until you leave. Don’t panic, this is due to local laws and they will keep it in a lockbox.

Bring a drivers license to use as ID, and print some passport copies if you’re worried you may need it out and about (apart from vehicle hire and longer transport journeys, you won’t).

13. Pack a decoy

In certain cities and when travelling by night bus, I got into the habit of taking a small handbag as a decoy, so thieves focused on that instead of the actual valuables in my small rucksack. Andy took a decoy wallet with a few unused cards and coins, and we both had old crappy phones to take on nights out.

We only felt the need to do this in cities where stealing from tourists is rife, like Rio de Janeiro (check out Rio de Janeiro’s safest neighbourhoods here to minimise your risk).

Just make sure the bag or wallet isn’t completely empty if you’re using it as a mugging decoy (i.e. to roam a city at night vs just passing through a bus terminal where the threat is more of pickpockets). You don’t want to put yourself in even more danger if muggers have time to check the contents.

14. Only book hostels that offer lockers

In this day and age, you’d be surprised by how many hostels think they can save a few pesos by not providing a few metal boxes in the corner.

Luckily, Hostelworld and Booking.com will always let you know if lockers are on offer in a given hostel. Also, they should definitely be free.

Even hostels like this with no window panes provide lockers:

15. Bring a heavy duty combination padlock for your hostel

By heavy duty, this doesn’t necessarily mean ‘thick’, as some of the locker loops can be small. But make sure your lock isn’t flimsy, as it doesn’t take much for someone to cut through them. This padlock would be perfect.

Even in private rooms, you should use any locker provided. I learnt this the hard way when we had £100 in cash stolen from a private room in Torotoro, Bolivia .

16. Don’t be flashy

As the Colombians say, ‘no dar papaya’, and as my dad would say, ‘don’t be a flashy git’. In short, if you ‘give papaya’, someone will see your papaya, want your papaya and take your papaya. This can’t happen if they never know your papaya exists. For the purposes of safe travel in South America, papaya is your cash, your watch, your phone, even your nice trainers.

I didn’t want to use my auntie to make a point, but here she is providing an excellent example of giving papaya in San Gil, Colombia that I just can’t let up:

17. Dress to blend in

I get it, some of you are going to stand out just through simple genetics. However, leaving the belt wallet and bumbag at home can take you from looking like an easy target to a well-seasoned travel pro who has their wits about them, therefore making your South America travel safer by a mile.

Look around at how the locals dress and try to mimic it (though obviously don’t step out of the boundaries of what would be culturally appropriate for you – no one needs to see a gaggle of Kiwi dudes in cholita dresses. Or maybe they do. Maybe that is exactly what this world needs?!).

Protect yourself against sticky situations

18. muggings aren’t common, but if it happens just give up everything.

Yes, even your laptop. And your passport. Your life is worth more, and there’s really nothing your embassy and backpacker travel insurance can’t sort out. You’ll have to deal with the administrative hassle and perhaps attack on your ego, but that’s really a much better result than you receiving stitches for a stab wound in an over-packed A&E ward.

The truth is that there are many desperate people in this region, so you never really know the lengths they will go to in order to feed their family or survive life in a brutal gang.

19. Protests are a normal part of South American life, but steer clear

There’s a fair bit of political unrest in various pockets of South America at the moment, so it’s not unusual to find yourself in and amongst a protest or two. These rarely turn violent, but it’s always best to stay away.

As long as you avoid protests, at most you’ll probably just experience a few travel delays as a result. Keep plans flexible when you’re around a city that has had some civil unrest, and keep up-to-date with the local news.

Here’s one of the times our Bolivian bus stopped several miles outside the city and we had to walk the rest of the way. Funsies.

20. Keep an eye on your drinks

Ladies, I’m sure most of you will already be vigilant with watching your drinks in public due to date rape fears anywhere in the world. However, men may not have gotten into such habits due to their much lower risk back home, and therefore get double-whammied when their drink is spiked with scopolamine and they wake up dazed in an empty apartment with their bank accounts wiped.

This drug comes from a plant, and is used mainly (but not exclusively) in Colombia. It’s like a truth serum that turns you into a fully-functioning zombie with complete compliance. This allows thieves (often in the form of stunning women) to ask you all your bank details with no fuss, and to get your help in moving all of your stuff into their car. Be wary!

21. Be super-careful around drugs in South America

If there’s one thing worse than going to prison for 15 years, it’s going to Ecuadorian prison for 15 years. In addition to this, gringos arranging to buy drugs is one of the key ways that criminal gangs know who to target for theft.

Look, I know a huge draw of South America is the high quality and low price of the cocaine, but you need to be cautious in terms of whether you can trust your source, whether you can keep it quiet and whether you’re dosing to allow for the fact that the strength of this stuff will be mind-blowing compared to what’s available at home. You don’t want to be waking up in a hospital bed any more than you do a police cell.

Here’s me, not actually on drugs, but possibly surrounded by them. Sneaky drugs.

How to be financially-smart when you travel

22. carry less cash.

This is all about minimising your damage. If you do get robbed – or even just lose your purse because like me, you’re effing useless – let’s at least make sure you don’t lose your entire life’s savings in one pop.

Only carry as much cash as you need for the day, and use card payments as much as possible.

23. Don’t have everything on one card

Just as you should limit the damage that can be done if your cash gets stolen, you should also limit the damage that can be done if your card gets stolen.

Use a travel card (you’ll see why I recommend a Revolut card below), and load it up by just $150 or so at a time. You don’t want thieves having access to your entire savings if they get their hands on your main bank card.

24. Keep a second wallet

Now, this isn’t a decoy wallet, it’s a savings wallet to keep a safe stash if you’re going to a place that will have poor access to ATMs or is unlikely to accept card payments.

Each morning, you transfer one day’s worth of cash into the wallet you take out, then put your second wallet into your locker.

Again, damage control if stolen, but also a smart measure to take if you’re just very loss-prone (me, basically).

25. Don’t get robbed by bank fees

See what I did there . Using a regular bank card will likely result in long lists of ATM transaction fees, bank admin fees and foreign exchange commissions that RACK UP.

Get yourself a free Revolut card and use my list of ATMs in South America that give free cash withdrawals , and you’ll be laughing.

26. Use shopping centre ATMs where possible

Avoid street ATMs to take out cash as much as you can (though of course sometimes you just don’t have any choice). Where possible, try to instead find a cash point in a place with bright lights and security guards, like a shopping mall.

Alternatively, your next best option is an ATM room which you’ll see outside banks or at random points between shops, but avoid using these alone or at night as people may loiter outside for when you come out.

27. Never let your card out of your sight

If someone claims their card machine is in a different room, insist they bring it out to you, or let you follow them into said room.

Don’t make the same mistake Andy and I made in Argentina when our card got cloned – potentially in a pretty upmarket restaurant.

Ensure safe travel in South America on public transport

28. be careful of unlicensed taxis (and tours).

Unregulated taxis and tours can lead to all sorts of issues – lack of fair pricing, disregard for safety and unaccountability if you need to report something troubling.

This problem is especially prominent with Buenos Aires taxis – aim to get a RadioTaxi instead of hailing a random yellow car.

Most cities have reputable taxi apps where you can pay in-app; Uber is available in the places that haven’t yet managed to outlaw it, but you can also try out Cabify, 99 Easy Taxi or Beat.

29. Keep belongings tied up between your feet on public transport

Did I tell you of the guy who had his entire 30L backpack – plus the shoes he’d taken off – stolen from him while he slept on a bus?! Well, I’m telling you now. Passport, laptop, clothes, all gone.

Obviously, at some point during an over-night journey, you’re going to need to sleep, but ensure first that everything you own is tucked way out of others’ reach (thieves aren’t against squeezing sneaky fingers round the side or underneath your seat), and that bags are tied to you by a strap.

I even had a jacket pulled out from under my seat on what must have been Quito’s rainiest day in goddamn history. Enjoyed losing that.

Although between your feet isn’t perfect, you are far safer putting small bags there than up in the luggage rack above your head. Staying safe and comfortable on night buses in South America will provide some more info for you!

30. Don’t pack valuables in the top of your backpack

You shouldn’t be putting many valuables in your big backpack anyway as you can’t always have it in sight, but for some things – such as your second wallet, where the whole point is to have a back-up if your actual valuables get stolen – it does make sense whilst travelling between destinations.

Make sure these valuables are wrapped up right in the middle of your backpack contents, so a sleight hand will pick up nothing more than a wad of your dirty underwear. ‘at’ll learn ’em.

31. Know when the last bus leaves

And don’t end up like me, stuck in a closing bus station on the wrong side of a large city, unable to flag a taxi or book anything on Booking.com before the next day, realising the only option is to follow a lady holding a cardboard ‘HOSTAL’ sign and pay to sleep in her basement with locks on the outside of my door. That was a fun night.

Moral of the story is, always know when the last bus leaves, and if worried, ask someone to point you to where your bus will be pulling in so you don’t miss it.

32. Don’t arrive too late in a new city

Public transport doesn’t run at all hours, even in lots of the capital cities, so try and plan your night bus or flight to arrive at a time when you’ll be able to get a transfer to your accommodation.

Having to sit around a terminal with all your bags at 5am is not the one, and it’s not the most recommended situation for safe travel in South America.

Now you’ve reached the end of this guide to safe travel in South America, you may also enjoy reading:

• 11 tricks & scams in South America

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Last Updated on 1 April 2023 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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Ranked: 10 Safest Countries in South America [2024 Update]

As a solo female traveler in South America, I know how important it can be to research travel and safety before hitting the road. Especially if you’re headed to South America, you’re bound to hear many outdated and backward misconceptions about safety and security in the region ; make sure to get the facts before you travel!

Using data from the most recent Global Peace Index (GPI) and local data on crime statistics in the countries that made our list, we’ve compiled a safety ranking of countries in South America for travelers. Read on to learn the safest countries in South America – they might surprise you!

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Safest Countries in South America – Ranking Methodology

We start by reminding travelers of these caveats and recognizing the challenge of identifying safe countries in South America, or anywhere for that matter. No matter where you travel, there will be areas you don’t want to visit for safety reasons, situations to avoid, and changing political realities that it’s essential to be aware of.

While it can be challenging to provide an accurate ranking for “safety,” an intangible quality composed of many factors, we’ve chosen the latest Global Peace Index (GPI) and local country-level crime statistics to paint a broad picture of safety in South America.

These statistics include data on all kinds of crimes, including robberies, violent crime, political repression and violence, and more, to create a complete picture of safety in each country.

We’ve weighted these statistics with factors most pertinent to travelers in mind, such as petty crime and robberies , rather than security factors that may weigh more on locals. Read on for these statistics and more, plus a healthy dose of recommendations for travelers and personal anecdotes from our experiences in cities in South America .

The Safest Countries in South America – Ranked!

The safest country in South America is the tiny, laidback country of Uruguay. Wedged between the South American giants Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay has the highest score on the Global Peace Index of any country in South America – 50th out of 163 countries reviewed by the index.

Uruguay is well known for its stable democracy, inclusive social policies, and low crime rate, making it among the safest countries in South America year after year .

My experience as a solo female traveler, traveling to Montevideo and several beach towns throughout the country, was extremely positive. I felt nothing but complete safety the entire time, even when using public transportation, staying in hostels, and walking alone through Montevideo.

Highlights of Uruguay include the hippie beach town of Punta del Diablo, the luxe Punta del Este with its fabulous nightlife, and the tiny colonial city of Colonia del Sacramento, one of the best cities in South America for travelers and just a quick ferry from Buenos Aires .

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 1.80/5.0, Country Rank: 50/163

• 16 Best Cities in South America
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Ranked 58th out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index, Chile is consistently one of the safest countries in South America. With a stable democracy , strong (though unequal) economic development, and low crime statistics, Chile is a very safe destination for travelers.

As you should wherever you travel, make sure to practice common-sense safety when traveling, especially in cities. However, don’t fear. Chile is quite safe overall, and other than occasional pickpocketing, travelers report very few issues.

My personal experience traveling to Chile confirmed everything you’ll read and hear about its safety. As I traveled through Chile with one female friend, we had a great time traveling easily and safely wherever we headed, even when walking around larger cities in the evening. Plenty of traveler friends, male and female alike, have shared similar experiences.

From bustling Santiago and quaint Valparaiso (easily some of the best cities in South America !) to stunning Chilean Patagonia in the south, there is a lot to explore in Chile for travelers. A clear highlight in Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. It is home to some of Patagonia’s most beautiful landscapes with its jagged, snow-capped peaks and clear lakes.

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 1.87/5.0, Country Rank: 58/163

Travel Essential

Don’t head out on your adventure without comprehensive travel insurance! Good travel insurance may cover lost or stolen gear, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, and more.  Check out the policies available from  SafetyWing or compare plans using  Visitors Coverage .

3. Argentina

Consistently ranked among the safest countries to visit in South America, Argentina is a highlight for travelers and a great destination no matter what kind of travel appeals to you. Argentina is ranked 54th out of the world’s nations in safety and is considered a very safe travel destination.

Keep in mind that Argentina actually has a much higher incidence of petty crimes like pickpocketing and robberies than some of the countries that rank lower than it on this list. Data shows that Argentina has the highest rates of robberies in South America, which is why it comes in at number three on this list.

This isn’t to scare you out of coming to Argentina by any means. It is simply meant to inform, demonstrating how challenging it can be to actually rank entire countries based on their safety for travelers.

Make sure you use basic travel safety measures when traveling in Argentina, and you’ll be fine. Try clipping the zippers on your bag shut, keeping your purse in front of you, sticking to safe areas of the cities and regions you’ll be visiting , and not flashing expensive jewelry or technology when possible.

No matter where you choose to travel in Argentina, you’ll love what this massive and diverse country has to offer. From red cliffs and canyons in the north to snow-capped peaks and glaciers in Patagonia, plenty of natural spots are worth checking out and unforgettable things to do in Argentina .

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 1.84/5.0, Country Rank: 54/163

Plan a Trip to Argentina

• Best Things To Do in Buenos Aires
• Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
• 8 Best Beaches in Argentina

4. Paraguay

The little-visited, landlocked country of Paraguay, in the heart of the continent, is one of the safest countries in South America for visitors. Coming in at number 68 on this year’s Global Peace Index, Paraguay is known for having relative stability and fewer crimes like robberies or assaults than you’ll find among some of its neighbors.

In addition to being one of the safest countries in South America for travelers, Paraguay is also quite an affordable travel destination. As one of the most affordable countries to visit in South America , you’ll save tons of money while experiencing incredible destinations that are totally off the beaten path. It’s a hidden gem if there ever was one.

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 1.94/5.0, Country Rank: 68/163

Don’t think about traveling without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, at home or abroad. 

Bolivia is yet another great destination for travel in South America, and is generally quite a safe country in South America for travelers. Ranked 78 out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index, Bolivia shows improved scores in areas like peace, stability, and crimes that most commonly impact travelers.

Despite Bolivia being the poorest country in South America, it ranks lower than many other countries in the region, including Peru, Argentina, and Brazil, in regard to petty crimes like pickpocketing and robbery that could more frequently impact travelers. In my own experience as a backpacker in Bolivia, I felt quite safe.

While Bolivia is a large, diverse country with so much to offer travelers, the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flat is a stand-out favorite with visitors. This otherworldly destination is also known as the world’s largest mirror for how the water-flooded salt flat perfectly reflects the sky during the rainy season. It’s a must-visit destination.

Also home to sections of the Amazon Rainforest, Lake Titicaca , beautiful colonial architecture, and countless Incan ruins, Bolivia is a great, off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers.

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 2.00/5.0, Country Rank: 78/163

Plan a Trip to Bolivia

• Bolivia Salt Flats: Ultimate Guide to Salar de Uyuni
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Ecuador comes in at number six on our list of the safest countries in South America. Ranked 97 of over 160 countries on the Global Peace Index, Ecuador has gotten safer in recent years in many aspects, though a few jarring instances of large protests and political upheaval in the past few years have had locals and some visitors a bit shaken.

Overall, Ecuador is quite a safe destination for travelers. Having lived in Ecuador for over two years and traveling to every corner of the country, I’m glad to report that I didn’t have a single unsafe incident while there; I felt quite safe throughout my time in Ecuador.

When traveling to Ecuador, travelers should take care to avoid pickpockets and petty theft. Keep in mind that Ecuador actually reports far fewer robberies and petty crimes than countries higher on this list (like Chile and Argentina!) report.

Highlights of traveling Ecuador include exploring Old Town Quito , hiking the Quilotoa Loop near this stunning volcanic crater lake, and visiting the Otavalo market . Of course, the Galapagos is a bucket list destination that draws many travelers to Ecuador, and it is a must!

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 2.09/5.0, Country Rank: 97/163

Read More: Is Ecuador Safe? Ultimate Ecuador Safety Guide

Plan a Trip to Ecuador

• 10 Best Cities in Ecuador for Travelers
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• Ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide
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Ranked 103 out of 163 nations on the Global Peace Index, Peru’s Global Peace Index score deteriorated significantly in recent years. With a recent election causing allegations of voter fraud, the country’s political system has been more chaotic than it has been in many years. While this political uncertainty doesn’t have much impact on travelers, crime rates have been on the rise in recent years as well.

Peru might have a hard time stacking up to some of the leaders of this ranking of safest countries in South America, these issues have yet to play a significant role in limited international travel. In 2019, Peru welcomed nearly 5.5 million international visitors, with many headed to its most famous landmark, Machu Picchu.

I wholly recommend travel to Peru to those considering it, though under the condition they visit more of Peru than just Cusco and Machu Picchu . Though this area of the country is exceptional, so many other corners of the country are just as remarkable.

Get off the beaten path and visit historic cities in Peru like Arequipa, fascinating pre-Incan ruins like Chan Chan, and the snowy mountain peaks in Huaraz. You’ll be astonished by just how much Peru has to offer.

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 2.13/5.0, Country Rank: 103/163

Plan a Trip to Peru

• 10 Best Cities in Peru For Travelers
• Best Machu Picchu Tours (For Every Budget!)
• Where to Stay in Cusco, Peru
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8. Colombia

Colombia’s recent past might lead you to believe that Colombia is one of the more dangerous countries to visit in South America, but a lot has changed in just a short time. While Colombia still faces many challenges, it is now significantly safer and more peaceful, and its crime rate has plummeted by 75% since its peak in 1991 . That is almost unheard of.

The Colombia of the 1980s and 1990 has been radically transformed and is moving forward full steam ahead. However, due to a small number of armed insurgents still operating in the country and the insecurity involved with trafficking, Colombia is still considered among the three least safe countries in South America.

As a traveler, it’s important to be aware of these issues while keeping this in mind: despite pockets of insecurity and violence in Colombia, travel and tourism have boomed in recent years, and Colombia is a more popular destination than ever before.

Colombia is an incredibly popular destination for backpackers , digital nomads in Latin America , and its port of Cartagena brings cruise ship travelers almost daily during high season. You’ll find affordable island vacation destinations off the Caribbean coast, impressive trekking spots through desert and jungle, and, of course, the world’s best coffee.

My experience traveling in Colombia and living in Medellin for two months was excellent. I felt safe the entire time as I took easy travel safety measures like using marked taxis, keeping my belongings close, and not wearing flashy clothes or jewelry. I wholeheartedly recommend Colombia as a destination for travelers!

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 2.69/5.0, Country Rank: 140/163

Plan a Trip to Colombia

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Coming in at number 132 out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index, Brazil faces some challenges regarding security and crime, as it has slid backward in GPI rankings, primarily due to crime rates.

While Brazil technically ranks higher on the Global Peace Index than Colombia, Colombia has lower crime stats than Brazil in some important areas that are more likely to impact travelers . Therefore, we’ve dropped Brazil down a spot on this list.

Safety in Brazil can vary drastically from area to area and city to city, so make sure to look for up-to-date, local advice while planning your trip . This is especially true while navigating Brazil’s larger cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, which tend to be more unsafe for travelers in certain areas.

Anecdotally, you’ll find travelers sharing all kinds of stories about travel to Brazil, some saying they felt totally safe and others saying they experienced pickpocketing or insecurity in another way. This is a reminder to take each story with a grain of salt and remember that there are some easy ways to stay safe when traveling , whether you’re in the world’s safest country or one with more insecurity.

Don’t let Brazil’s lower ranking on this guide dissuade you from a visit. Latin America’s giant has countless beautiful and unique cities, stunning beaches, the giant and diverse sections of the Amazon, and more. It’s all well worth traveling to experience.

Global Peace Index | Overall Score: 2.46/5.0, Country Rank: 132/163

10. Venezuela

Last on our ranked list of safest countries in South America for travelers is Venezuela, which has been last on the Global Peace Index’s ranking of South American nations for several years now. With its challenging combination of political uncertainty, inflation, demonstrations, and violent crime, Venezuela faces many issues that make traveling here much more complicated.

The good news is that Venezuela has improved in a few key ways in recent years, and this is reflected in an improved Global Peace Index rating from previous years. However, travelers mostly aren’t traveling here right now due to all the country is going through.

While Venezuela faces many problems, it has a lot to offer travelers, including great beaches, stunning rainforest retreats, and the stunning Angel Falls that make Niagara Falls and Iguazú look tiny in comparison . Hopefully, in the near future, travel to Venezuela will get safer and easier.

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Travel in South America

While statistics point to countries like Uruguay and Chile being among the safest countries in South America, there is much more that goes into travel safety than just statistics.

No matter where you travel – whether in South America or even closer to home! – practicing smart yet simple travel safety can be the difference between having a perfectly uneventful trip and one you might prefer to forget.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Is South America safe? Everything you need to know

Is South America safe? If you are planning your next trip and you’re considering visiting South America, here is a list of 10 travel safety tips to keep safe!

Let’s start with the most common question:

Is South America safe?

Latin America always tends to drop under the “cons” column when making that “where to next” decision regarding safety; and although the Safety weight should always be high when it comes to travelling, violence and danger are generally overrated in certain countries.

We won’t lie or sugar coat, crime levels in Latin American countries are higher than what we’re probably used to, but that should never be an impediment to travel. One should, however, be aware that special safety measures and precautions should be taken.

The people, history, culture and nature in these countries have been some of the most inspiring and soul-filling we’ve been to and we wouldn’t want you to miss out on the opportunity to live this experience out of fear.

We’d even risk guaranteeing your integrity, phone, money and passport will all be safe if you follow these 10 very easy safety tips and recommendations that we’ve strictly followed ourselves when travelling in South America.

Guest post by @teresaribas

South America: 10 Travel Safety Tips

1 – prevention.

Prevent, prevent, prevent. Prevention is the best investment.

You should see prevention as something extra to pack in your backpack, not as a burden. Do your homework, learn how to get from A to B before you go.

Understand the safety measures you so should take in each specific country and write down emergency contacts, just in case. Preventing will always be better than having a bad experience that could ruin your trip.

2 – Avoid walking around at night

“The night is dark and full of terrors”.

Avoid walking around at night, especially in lonely streets and big cities. It’s not like vampires jump out as soon as the sun goes down, but maybe those late night strolls in the park should probably be avoided.

There is another very important thing to keep in mind: always avoid public transport at night, it’s better to spend a couple euros/dollars extra on a taxi (or Uber) than to lose all your belongings and get your trip ruined from one single bad experience.

3 – Always be up to date on local news

Given the majority of these countries are historically politically unstable; geographically located where there is always (even if just a slight) risk of natural disasters and socially restless; you should always pay attention to local news before and during your trip.

Things here can change very quickly and you should always be able to adapt your plan to these unexpected and unpredictable situations when travelling in South America.

4 – Ask the locals

Always ask and follow local recommendations.

This is one of the most important travel safety tips in South America, and also the one that has helped us the most. Ask locals for their opinions on your plans.

Note: Do this only when they have no interest in selling you anything, don’t blindly trust anyone who tries to take you to a bus when you get into a station or show you the way, or give you a “free sample” of something, have criteria and know who to trust.

Some people here live off commissions to attract tourists, so you might get ripped off.

Obviously, that’s not always the case and you’ll meet a lot of locals who earn nothing from your existence, who can help you understand if a neighbourhood should be avoided, if there’s any unsafe region for whatever reasons or if you should get Ubers instead of Taxis or Taxis instead of Ubers.

Strictly follow their recommendations once you ask for their tips, most people here don’t want you as a tourist to be hurt, that would negatively affect business and economy in places that live off visitors.

5 – Keep a low profile

This is not just a Latin America recommendation, and you’ve probably read this off every travel guide, but avoid taking your best jewellery and sneakers out for a walk.

You’ll stand out and that’s something you don’t want, especially if criminals are around, they’ll go for the people who look like they have something valuable (even if they don’t).

Know where to take your fancy camera and/or phone out, understand that sometimes it’s better to lose that story opportunity, instead of losing your phone.

6 – Protect your belongings

At. All. Times.

Keep an eye on them, one tiny distraction and you can lose them all.

Scatter your money, don’t carry it all in one place; don’t put your phone in your pant’s back pocket, or your wallet for that matter.

Grab on to your backpack in crowded places and watch out for your stuff in public transport.

7 – Look confident

Look like you know where you’re going (even if you don’t).

In fact, one of the best ways to avoid problems is to look confident. Don’t walk around looking at your phone or your maps, don’t look lost, people might take advantage of that.

Look for a shop whenever you feel lost, whether it’s a business, a restaurant, and ask for directions.

8 – Follow your gut

Be smart, follow your gut.

Many times, while looking for the museum, the park, the street, you’ll go through some dodgy streets.

Turn around. Always turn around if something feels weird.

Take a different path, walk down a different street, chances are your bad gut feeling is actually real.

Big cities can be tricky, and big cities one is not familiar with can be hell, keep yourself safe and follow your gut every time that one street, that one person, that one taxi, that one bus looks bad.

9 – Learn Spanish basics

You don’t have to be Gabriel Garcia Marquez to travel through Latin America, but knowing some basics can get you out of some frustrating situations.

The English level in some countries is surprisingly low and, although miming sometimes does the trick, it won’t if you need something more complicated like “I need something to help with sandflea bite itching” (which you’ll need.. I’d bet you on that).

Learn the basics, it will help.

10 – Beware of Tinder traps

That’s right, dating.

Something that has become rather common in some countries is trapping tourists through tinder or dating websites. We’ve heard some stories first hand, and they are not pleasant.

Again, be smart, learn who and who not to trust, protect your belongings and follow your gut.

As a conclusion, I’d like to invite you to not obsess over safety in these countries. If you take care, prevent, prepare and take some precautions to avoid finding yourself in a complicated situation, you’ll be able to enjoy an inspiring, enriching and soulful experience.

Just like you would anywhere else, understand you’re a visitor, and you should adapt to the local culture and habits, not the other way around – respect the people around you, be polite and thankful, and don’t do anything a local wouldn’t.

Don’t get yourself in trouble, needless to say, you should avoid getting in the drug or prostitution scenes and accept the cultural differences.

Enjoy, there’s so much to learn & see!

Author Bio:

Native Portuguese, bilingual in English, trilingual in Spanish. I speak Catalan when people promise not to laugh, I’ll understand Italian or French. I still believe I should’ve listened to my mother when she told me to learn Mandarin.

Born in Oporto, Portugal, lived in Italy and England before settling for Barcelona, Spain. Where I lived for the past 9 years before quitting my job as a corporate branding consultant and leaving my house, my life and my friends to follow one of my biggest dreams: to travel the world indefinitely.

Not a blogger, I share all my trips and tips on my travel diary at @teresaribas

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How to Travel Safely in South America (Without Missing Out)

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 6th October 2023

Every year there are headlines querying how safe it is to travel in South America, particularly for solo females.

You might have read about the Yale University student who suffered critical head and lung injuries in a freak rafting accident in Colombia, or the murders of two female backpackers in Ecuador.

The latter story provoked heated criticisms and the Twitter hashtag #viajosola (I travel alone) for the implication that the fact they were women travelling alone was to blame for the deaths.

Given how many people travel each year to South America (millions of solo female travellers included) these awful examples of when travel can go wrong are by no means the norm, but it’s understandable that they can leave potential travellers feeling somewhat concerned about stepping onto South American shores.

So, if you’re questioning is South America a safe place to travel? – whatever parts you might be packing in your pants – then let me put your mind at ease.

While this continent may not be top of many backpackers’ list of where to travel alone, the vast majority of people of both sexes who do, have incredible, safe and life-changing experiences.

Travel safely and adventurously – wherever you are

Of course, there are some basic principles for travelling – wherever in the world – that everyone should follow.

Having spent the past seven years getting to know some of the best places to visit in South America (including some of its more ‘adventurous’ locations) I’ve learned from my own and other travellers’ mistakes about how you can travel safely.

For me, adventurous travel is about having the confidence to jump on a bus to a far-flung destination where not many other visitors go or stopping the night in a tiny, rural community where you know you’ll receive a warm welcome and an incredible sunrise.

It’s about hiking, camping, and discovering the countryside that so few other tourists probably have dared to do.

These are the parts of travel that bring a country alive but which require a certain degree of self-assurance for you to embark on them in the first place. But if you’re inspired to try this style of backpacking, here are my golden rules for travelling adventurously but safely through South America, and which have served me well on my long ramble through this continent.

1. Always do your research and listen to others’ recommendations

This is my #1 travel rule: when you’re backpacking across South American countries, it’s SO important to do you research on the best bus company to go with.

Bus journeys here are long , and a) you’re putting your comfort at risk but b), more importantly, it shouldn’t matter how budget you’re travelling; what’s at stake here could genuinely be your life.

I’ve heard some horror stories about buses, not only in Bolivia but all of the countries in this continent.

My own parents’ experience of being in a bus that skidded and narrowly avoided hurtling into a canyon in Peru only serves to cement how important this rule is for safe travel in South America.

Before buying my ticket, I always ask other travellers and locals about the safety records of the different companies and book accordingly. I’ll admit

I’ve never once followed guide book suggestions to check out the bus before you travel (let’s face it, when you book, there’s no guarantee which of the company’s buses you’ll actually be travelling on), but instead go with recommendations.

In seven years of travel, I’ve only once had a hairy bus experience, for which I am incredibly thankful. Make sure you have as good luck on your travels in South America.

2. Recognise that you get what you pay for in every situation

Along similar lines as above, it quickly becomes apparent in South America that a tour, bus journey or activity that seems insanely cheap is so for a reason.

In some cases, it’s because the company isn’t paying their staff decent enough wages (which is frankly good enough grounds to ditch them on the spot), but often it’ll be because standards of health and safety – that old red tape that we love to hate back in the UK – are lacking.

Having lived in La Paz in Bolivia for six weeks, I heard a lot about the Death Road biking experience and was well aware that at least one tourist died every few months.

Yes, there were freak accidents, but I have no doubt that some of them would have been avoidable if the equipment had been better maintained by the companies.

Freak accidents do happen (as we saw above in Colombia) but it’s so much more advisable to limit the risk from the beginning by paying a decent amount.

Not only will you hopefully avoid accidents, but you’ll also be ensuring that the hard working guides you meet get paid a decent wage.

Now there’s a win/win that I can get behind when it comes to safe travel in South America .

3. Download the best (and free) technology

I’ve written previously about my love of adventure apps for travelling in South America , and I’ve relied on many of these technological pieces of magic throughout my travels.

If you really want to get adventurous when you travel, making sure you’ve got the correct mapping technology (and GPS) to get you out of a hiking tight-spot is essential.

The wonderful Travel Break website have also put together a fantastically useful guide to other apps that will help you travel safely . Although I can’t vouch for their usability in South America, they all sound like excellent ways of staying safe.

(Please share if you’ve had any experience of using them in this continent, as I’d love to know how they worked for you.)

What I personally love about technology for helping you to travel adventurously is how much easier it make situations which could very easily become exceptionally stressful, or downright dangerous.

For example, in Bolivia, I found how complicated it was to ever stick to (or even find) a path when you’re walking in the country, so having an app downloaded to my phone that could give me a hint as to which direction I wanted to be headed was invaluable.

4. Learn some of the lingo

I’m a massive advocate for travelling while learning the local language, mainly because it’s this type of travel that gets you closer to a country and its people.

Even with just the very basics of a language, it’s incredible the moments you can share, whether it’s being told to sopla (blow) the clouds away so that the sun comes out, the hilarity that ensues when you refer to yourself accidentally as loro (parrot), or playing a game of charades so that you can buy some thrush cream .

It’s also exceptionally useful for solo female travellers in South America who need to kill unwarranted advances ( tengo novio – I have a boyfriend can help get rid of “admirers”).

Knowing enough language to understand what is happening around you can also go a long way towards safe travel in South America.

When I was once asked, in Spanish, by a Bolivian woman on a bus if two noisy American passengers were talking about robbing her (they were in fact discussing reasons why the bus smelt like it was about to go up in flames – but that’s another story), I realised how I’d forgotten what it’s like to feel all at sea in another language.

Knowing that you’ve got the capacity to understand when the mood changes in a situation or even just so that you can understand what time you’re being told the bus will leave does wonders for putting you at ease.

And if you’re like me, learning a new language means you can put yourself in ridiculous new situations, like appearing on live Bolivian television .

While apps such as Duolingo might be useful to get you started, staying put for a few weeks to learn the language in a school will always lead to better results.

Thankfully South America has a myriad of excellent (cheap) countries in which to learn. I’ll always vouch for Sucre, Bolivia , but Antigua, Guatemala and Cuenca, Ecuador always seem to appear high on most travellers’ lists as the best places to visit – and learn – in South America.

5. Be aware: a little more aware than you might be at home

I know personally what it’s like to feel yourself getting a little bit too comfortable when travelling.

After five months of living in relative safety in Sucre, Bolivia, I’ll admit I’d gotten a bit lax when it came to personal safety. After quite a number of Jaeger bombs on my birthday (and a trip to Sucre’s favourite – and most unpleasant – club), I took a taxi home from the club and found myself with the driver attempting to put his hand up my skirt. Not cool.

I survived the incident, but it served to remind me that I’d let my guard down far too much.

Although  my experiences of backpacking in Bolivia had generally been empowering and positive , it was a stark warning about getting drunk in a foreign country, and how, as a solo female traveller, it’s never a good idea.

Yes, most of these countries are safer than you might have heard, but as a tourist, you’re often more of a target, whether it’s for sexual advances or for plain, old mugging.

Thanks to my beautiful Halifax Clarity credit card, which doesn’t charge me to withdraw from many cash machines in the countries I’ve visited so far, I’ve never had to carry lots of cash on me.

I also never take my credit card with me anywhere if I’m not planning on withdrawing money (believe me, having to get a replacement card sent from the UK to Peru because someone’s been using yours is not fun), and will certainly not trot around with my beautiful Sony DSLR on display.

On buses, I’m always sure to attach my handbag with my passport and money in it to my person and wedge it between me and the seat so that no one can get it without me noticing.

I’ll also ensure that my bag with laptop and camera are jammed somewhere so that if anyone attempts to move them, I will certainly know about it.

The longer I’ve travelled, the fewer awful stories I seem to hear, but these things do happen and it only takes you to wander down the wrong street, get distracted and have bird shit thrown at you (yup, Buenos Aires), and realise that someone’s stolen £500 from your rucksack. Don’t let it happen to you: be sensible.

Safe travel in South America is easier than you think

I hope I’ve proven how adventurous but safe travel in South America is a real possibility for female backpackers.

If you’re contemplating a solo trip, this list should prepare you for backpacking in South America and the fact that, yes it’ll be an adventurous experience, but ultimately one that will make you realise how courageous, self-reliant and capable of travelling alone you are.

Did you find this article useful? Inspire others by pinning it!

Jessica alba

Wednesday 13th of November 2019

Safety is most important in traveling most travelers use travel guides and route maps before visit any place overall thanks for these great tips.

Saturday 1st of April 2017

Hey Steph, I am a girl looking to travel solo across Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia and Brazil for the next six months. I am an avid photographer and would "ideally" like to take my DSLR. I can obviously use a non-conspicuous bag and wont walk around with it hanging in my neck but would you generally advise taking it? Any other words of caution reg. this.

Gracias por la informacion! (Hablo un poco de espanol aunque no mucho!)

Steph Dyson

Hi Upasna! You're going to have such an incredible trip!

I have my DSLR now, although I will admit I never had it when I was living in Bolivia (and did see some tourists wandering around with thousands of dollars of photography equipment dangling from their neck, something I thought was never a great idea!). I think that yes, you should take is purely because the continent is so incredibly beautiful you will be so annoyed with yourself if you don't!

To minimise the risk of it being stolen, I think having a backpack where you can store it for overnight bus journeys (and where you can basically have that bag on your lap or leaning on it or whatever so that you know if anyone tries to grab it) is essential. I would also have a good padlock for hostels so that you can store it at nighttime.

I have never had any problems travelling with my DSLR but I'm always aware that there is always the chance that it could get stolen. I think making sure you have a back up of your photos so that if worst comes to worst, yes it would be awful if it got stolen, but at least you wouldn't lose all of your pictures, is important.

I've also invested in some insurance which covers me for if it gets stolen from a locked room which at least gives me a bit of peace of mind. It's probably worth looking into that depending on which country you're from and what's on offer, particularly if you'll be travelling with something quite expensive.

I hope that helps; you will have a great time and seriously, the photo opportunities here are incredible! :)

Saturday 4th of February 2017

Great advice here. South America is such a beautiful and unexplored country by many travelers, but it isn't all sunshine as you mentioned. I think much of this advice can successfully applied to any location though! Whenever you go somewhere new, you should always do these for good measure because you never know what might occur. In Korea, girls are sometimes manhandled by drunk Korean guys who just want attention, especially if they're solo; that being said, it would rarely happen if she keeps her wits about her. Glad you got to have quite the opportunity!

Monday 6th of February 2017

It's very true, so much of this advice is common sense and applicable across the world. Like you said, it's important to have your wits about you as this is the best way of avoiding any potentially nasty situations. I'm glad you enjoyed the article :)

Friday 27th of May 2016

OMG the hand/skirt thing is so not cool but your language stories make me lmao!!

Thanks Anne! I probably should do a whole series on them really... I certainly have enough!

Ultimate SOUTH AMERICA Travel Guide

South America  is one of the most diverse places on the planet when it comes to landscapes and cultures. You can find ancient ruins, rich history, the largest rainforest on the planet and even glaciers. This South America guide is here to share our tips and advice for traveling across this continent.

Located south of  North America  and  Central America , South America stretches from  the Caribbean , across the equator and all the way south to the waters off  Antarctica . It is comprised of 12 countries and quite frankly, is massive.

These countries include Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uraguay and Venezuela. Also included are the two dependent territories of the Falkland Islands, along with South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. French Guiana, while located physically in South America, is a territory of the French central state.

We’ve spent just over 2 months traveling to various countries and regions across South America in our travels. We haven’t been to every country, yet, but we will continue to update this guide as explore more of this fascinating continent.

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South america travel: quick tips, don’t visit south america without:.

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Visit the amazon rainforest.

Few things in life will be as stimulating as immersing yourself in the Amazon Rainforest. The  Peruvian Amazon  and  Ecuadorian Amazon  are easily accessible to most travelers. We’re enamored by it and have been five times!

EXPLORE PATAGONIA

Whether you find yourself in Torres del Paine or Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia offers some incredible scenery and adventure opportunities. World-famous for hiking, you’ll want to consider the  Basecamps Trek  in Argentina or the W Trek in Chile.

SAIL THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Cruising the Galapagos Islands  is at the top of many people’s bucket lists and for good reason! Not only can you spend your days observing unique  Galapagos animals  but you can also enjoy the stunning natural scenery and white sand beaches. 

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN SOUTH AMERICA

There is no shortage of amazing things to do in South America during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary. Trust us, we’ve been there!

Each country has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our country guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

FLY TO EASTER ISLAND:   While it’s not widely known,  Easter Island  is actually part of Chile. At least politically anyways. This means that the remote island is accessible from Santiago by air. Once you arrive, you’ll spend your days in the  Rapa Nui National Park  learning about the famous Moai statues and Rapa Nui culture of the island. It’s well worth the time and expense to add this to your South America travel itinerary. Hot tip, plan at least a week (we stayed for 9 days!) as the weather can be unpredictable.

EXPLORE THE ATACAMA DESERT:  One of the most famous places to visit in Chile is the Atacama Desert. Here you can discover towering volcanoes, desolate salt pans, active geysers, vast cactus fields, massive flocks of pink flamingos, to name a few. Not to mention that it’s one of the best places in the world to view the sky. You’ll want to base yourself in  San Pedro de Atacama , a cute tourist town that gives you comfortable access to the entire area.

VISIT THE END OF THE EARTH IN USHUAIA:  The official jumping-off point for trips to  Antarctica , Ushuaia is literally at the end of the world. The town technically sits in a part of Patagonia, but you have to travel north before you get into the mountains. The town is rich in explorer history and you also have direct access to the Tierra del Fuego National Park too.

SEE MACHU PICCHU:   Visiting Machu Picchu  is easily the most visited site in South America and with good reason. It’s not only set in a stunning natural setting but offers you an intimate look into the Inca life and architecture. As a bonus,  Cusco offers plenty of things to do  including the Sacred Valley. This site alone makes  Peru  one of the top destinations to visit on the continent.

DISCOVER BOGOTA:  Despite the bad rap that Colombia often gets in the media, it has some intriguing destinations to discover within its borders including the  capital city of Bogota . The first trip I ever took to South America was to Bogota (I know, that’s weird and unconventional) and I’ll admit I was shocked by the rich culture and beauty of the city and surrounding area.

UNVEIL THE WONDERS OF RIO DE JANEIRO:  The first day we spent in Rio de Janeiro solidified the city on our list of favorite places in the world. Rio is diverse, cultural, historical and naturally stunning. No other city combines these elements in perfect harmony like this one and there are loads of  things to do in Rio de Janeiro  to boot.

SEE IGUAZU FALLS:  The largest waterfall in the world,  Iguazu Falls , can be accessed from both  Brazil  and Argentina. Set within a lush rainforest setting, these falls are stunning to visit. Both sides offer infrastructure to explore and view the falls safely. You’ll need at least 2 days, one for each side, but could easily spend 3 if you wanted to do everything available in the area.

VISIT THE WORLDS LARGEST WETLANDS:  Boasting a land area the size of France, the  Pantanal in Brazil  is a sight to behold. It’s also the best place in the world to view jaguars and with it a whole host of tropical birds. This area is remote and it is best visited by booking an all-inclusive safari package with a lodge that will include all your meals, lodging and wildlife viewing.

STAND IN AWE AT THE PERITO MORENO GLACIER:  The  Perito Moreno Glacier , situated within the Los Glaciares National Park, is Patagonia’s most famous glacier and is regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in Argentina. You can base yourself in El Calafate and then take the bus to explore this massive natural wonder. Be sure to go early and stay all day. There are miles of hiking trails that give you varying vantage points of the glacier, as well as boat tours to get close too.

OVERLAND THE HIGH CHILEAN ALTIPLANO:  If you seek an off-the-beaten path adventure, then overlanding from  Salta to the Atacama Desert  will give you just that. Starting in Salta, Argentina, you’ll make your way west, spending hours each day hiking in the desert and uncovering the history of the area before making your way to luxury infused base camps. You’ll cross over the Andes Mountains, experiencing altitude that will shock you, before descending to San Pedro de Atacama for a luxurious stay at the Explora Atacama property.

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

Each country has its own unique culinary scene, which is one of the reasons that travel to South America is so exciting for foodies.

In Peru, you have to try  Ceviche , a raw seafood salad. In Argentina, it’s all about the enormous  cuts of steak , the  red wine , and the massive meat barbecues.  Feijoada , a hearty black bean stew, is a Brazilian favorite, while in Colombia, you can chow down on  Arepa , a sort of stuffed maize bread.

One staple you will find across the continent is  rice and beans , which makes an appearance in some form in every country in the region. If you’re ever in doubt, just order up a plate of rice and beans!

SOUTH AMERICA FESTIVALS

South America is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking to enjoy local cultural events and plenty of lively carnivals. Every town and city has a carnival, but  Rio’s carnival  is the most famous in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Semana Santa  – or Holy Week – is one of the most important cultural weeks of the year in South America. This takes place during the last week before Easter.

Countries will celebrate their  independence days ; cities will host food festivals, drink festivals, and many more cultural events throughout the year, making South America an exciting prospect whenever you arrive on the continent!

PLAN AN EPIC SOUTH AMERICA ITINERARY!

Popular regions in south america.

The West Coast – or Pacific Coast – of South America, includes Colombia in the north, Ecuador,  Peru , Chile, and, if you head inland, Bolivia.  It is off of this coastline that you can also find the  Galapagos Islands , a place of incredible diversity and wildlife.  Inland, you can climb high into the Andes Mountains to discover Incan history (this is where you’ll find  Machu Picchu ) and beautiful scenery before dropping into the Amazon’s dense forests.

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders and is the world’s largest rainforest. It blankets around 40 percent of the landmass of the South American continent. It stretches into Brazil,  Ecuador , Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, Suriname, Guyana and can be explored from a number of locations. Multi-day expeditions that take you deep into the rainforest are among the best reasons to visit South America. Manaus in Brazil is the classic Amazon destination, a remote city from where you can venture deep into Amazonas. In  Peru , you can visit Iquitos or Puerto Maldanado. In Ecuador, pay a visit to the stunning  Yasuni National Park .

The eastern coastline of South America is long and incredibly diverse, covering  Brazil , Uruguay, and Argentina. You’ll also find hundreds of islands associated with these countries and at the very south of the continent, the Falkland Islands. The tropical rainforest turns into more temperate climes as you travel south. Explore Brazil’s famous coastal cities,  Rio de Janeiro  and São Paulo, and relax on Ilha Grande. Travel to Montevideo, the understated Uruguayan capital, before heading over to visit Buenos Aires, the Argentine capital.

NORTHEAST/CARIBBEAN

The Caribbean touching northeast is one of the most exciting places to visit when you travel to South America. Island hop through Colombia’s happening islands, where you’ll find snorkeling, parties, and laid-back beach vibes. Then head inland to explore  Bogota . Off the coast, you could explore the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Curacao, or Trinidad and Tobago. Tucking back inland, you can get way off the beaten path in exploring Guyana, Suriname, or French Guiana. The truly adventurous could even venture to Venezuela. You’ll find lush rainforest, towering waterfalls, and intriguing cultures throughout these countries. 

Remote  Patagonia  is one of the most isolated yet spectacular places you can explore in South America. Located at the southern tip of the continent, Patagonia spans the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and is divided between Chile and Argentina. El Calafate and El Chalten in Argentina and Torres del Paine in Chile are amazing hubs for hiking in Patagonia. You’ll find endless trails, high mountain peaks, spectacular glaciers, and a landscape and climate more suited to  Greenland  or Scandinavia than anything you might be expecting of South America.

SOUTH AMERICA TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to South America is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within South America. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  On the lower end of the spectrum, you can travel to South America and spend just USD 10 per day on  hostel  accommodation. You can raise this to between USD 30 and USD 50 if you are looking for  private rooms . Upwards of USD 100 per night will give you a nice  luxury hotel .

FOOD:  Food is very inexpensive. To keep costs low during your South America travel trip, you can  eat locally  – brush up on your Spanish or Portuguese so you can order! You can eat out in most countries for no more than USD 5, but expect basic set meals. For between USD 10 and USD 20, you can enjoy  finer dining  experiences.

TRANSPORT:  Long-distance buses are the cheapest way to get around when you travel to South America.  Overnight buses  will cost around USD 50 per person, while local buses and transport are much cheaper for shorter journeys.  Flight  costs vary, but flying internationally can be expensive. A two-hour flight could easily cost hundreds of dollars (as opposed to Europe, where a two-hour flight could cost just USD 20 if booked in advance!).

ACTIVITIES:  There’s so much to plan with your South America travel itinerary, but it’s good to know that activities are very cost-effective. A  multi-day trek to Machu Picchu  will cost around USD 500, and this is the higher-end version.  Day tours  are around USD 30 per person, while a  multi-day Amazon expedition  will be around USD 100 per day.

30-50 USD PER DAY

Will include dorm beds, as well as street food, grocery shopping, overnight buses & plenty of budget day tours. Bring more cash if you want to join multi-day trips, such as Machu Picchu treks.

50-100 USD PER DAY

You will stay in private rooms and guesthouses and enjoy plenty of meals out. You’ll have lots of leftover cash for day trips, expeditions, and tourist buses between cities.

200 USD + PER DAY

Luxury travelers spending more than USD 200 per day will be able to employ private drivers, fly from one city to the next & book fancy hotels in stunning locations. 

WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH AMERICA

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in South America. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN SOUTH AMERICA

When you travel to South America, don’t underestimate how far apart destinations, cities, and countries are. This is a vast continent; it would take weeks to travel overland from Colombia all the way south to Argentina.

There are a few ways to get around South America during a visit, including cruises, ferries and flights. Plan ahead and be flexible to avoid frustration.

CRUISES:  All manner of cruises ply the waters off both coasts of South America and run the length of the continent. This also means you can find a wide range of time lengths and ship sizes. It is also possible to depart on small-ship expeditions to  Antarctica  from Ushuaia, Argentina.

BUS:  Long-distance buses are comfortable and safe, but they take a long time to get from one place to the next. South America has an extensive bus network that connects most of the countries, so bus travel can be a good way to go if you have time and a limited budget or perhaps just want a grand adventure.

FLIGHTS: Flights are the quickest way to get around; however, international routes and airlines aren’t cost-effective, and they certainly aren’t good value.

FERRIES:  Boat trips in some locations are a slow but scenic option (especially in the Amazon, where they are the only option).

CAR RENTAL:  It is possible to rent a car in plenty of cities around South America but is most popular in Argentina and Chile. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TOP SOUTH AMERICA TOURS

End of the earth.

14 Days from Buenos Aires Visits: Patagonia, El Chalten, El Calafate, Torres del Paine, Puerto Natales & Ushuaia

ECUADOR MAINLAND & GALAPAGOS

14 Days from Quito, Ecuador Visits: Quito, Banos, Amazon Rainforest, Papallacta & the central Galapagos Islands

PERU & BOLIVIA – NAT GEO

16 Days Lima to La Paz Visits: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Cusco, Amazon Rainforest, Uyuni, Potosi & Sucre

WHEN TO VISIT SOUTH AMERICA

When you’re planning your South America travel itinerary, don’t forget how vast this continent is. Each region has its own climate; when it’s cold in southern Argentina, it’s going to be hot and humid in Colombia!

The further north you travel , the more tropical the climate is. Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil all have  wet and dry seasons . The best time to plan your South America travel itinerary in the north is during the dry season, which runs from May to October.

This is the best time for hiking to Machu Picchu or experiencing the salt flats of Bolivia. It’s not too hot, and there’s almost no rain.

In the south , things are a lot more  temperate . If you’re looking to travel to South America to explore Uruguay, Chile, or Argentina, you’ll want to head here outside of winter.

Summer  is hot and busy (between November and February), while  spring and fall  can be more pleasant and less crowded. If you’re heading  far south  to Patagonia, you’ll want to visit in  summer  when all the hiking trails are definitely going to be open.

HIKE YOUR WAY AROUND SOUTH AMERICA LIKE A PRO!

Safety in south america.

If you’re planning to travel to South America, you’re probably already aware that the continent doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to crime. Most travelers will have a trouble-free trip, but you do need to be aware of a few things.

Petty theft, muggings, and even express kidnappings can be a problem for tourists. If you’re caught up in something like this, don’t put up a fight. Try not to flaunt cash or valuables when in public, to avoid attention.

When traveling by bus, book tickets on reputable, first-class buses that don’t stop outside designated bus stations. They are safer and much less likely to be held up.

Certain countries do have no-go zones for tourists – parts of Colombia and some areas of Brazilian cities, for instance. Try to keep abreast of political events while you’re in a country, as things can deteriorate without much warning, and governments often crack down hard on protestors.

If you know Spanish, or can learn the basics, you’ll have a much safer and easier time when you travel to South America (in Brazil, the same goes for learning Portuguese).

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

SOUTH AMERICA TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

South america travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to South America and start planning your dream trip.

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Safety in South America in 2024: The 7 Safest Countries for Family Vacations + Advice

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Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by Ariana Svenson

So you are wondering about safety in South America?  If you’re planning a family trip to South America but are hesitant about security, you’ve come to the right place.

Based on U.S. travel advice and the global peace index, here is some great advice on the seven safest countries to visit in South America.  And, for more South America information, read our  South America Tips: 21 Essential Travel Tips [The Family Edition] .

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer .

Is south america safe.

First, if you’re wondering, ‘ Is travelling to South America safe ?” South America is a vast continent and covers not only 12 countries but it encompasses the Andes, the Amazon jungle and the dry coasts of Peru.

South America includes some of the world’s biggest cities; Sao Paolo in Brazil, Buenos Aires in Argentina, Lima in Peru and Bogota, Colombia.  In addition to those massive metropolises, there are many other cities; just like your home city, there are safe parts – and places you won’t want to walk after dark.

South America is an enormous region with much more diversity, people and places,  and different types of weather.  Yes, you might be exposed to situations you are not used to at home.  That is ok as long as you are sensible.

South America is not more dangerous than most parts of the world.  However, anywhere, you must use caution and good common sense.

South America is safe to travel with kids, as long as you use common sense and take some precautions.  I have spent years in South America with my children and find that it’s a kid friendly destination because the people love children.

My Experiences of Safety in South America

I arrived in Chile over 20 years ago; visited Rapa Nui and loved it.  I then headed up to Ecuador, where my travels along the “Gringo Trail’ began.  After spending a week in Quito studying Spanish, and I was considering flying directly to Asia as I just didn’t feel safe.

Thankfully 20 years later, I am still travelling in South America, planning and loving trips.  I’ve spent much time in Peru, where I lived for ten years, but other favorites include Colombia and Bolivia.  I also really adore Chile and Argentina for their more European feel.

I’ve been robbed, pickpocketed, lost in the mountains in bad weather, and suffered dreadfully from frostbite.  That doesn’t make South America unsafe; it means I had some unlucky moments and made terrible decisions.

Safety in South America and Style of Travel

If you backpack around South America, you are more likely to encounter difficult or dangerous situations than if you have a fully escorted tour.  If you stay in the downtowns or central cities these days, they are very safe and clean due to the concerted efforts of municipalities and governments.

Four and 5-star hotels tend to be in good neighborhoods, and if you have an accompanied holiday with guides and private drivers, you should be in very safe hands.

My main advice would be to exercise caution.  Don’t wear expensive jewelry.  Be sensible, research the travel advice for your destination beforehand and familiarize yourself with common scams and dangers such as natural disasters to be prepared.

Measuring Safety in South America

As well as going off personal experiences in South America, this list is ordered based on where each South American country ranks on the global peace index and what the U.S. travel advisories are.  There are so many safe countries in South America!

The Global Peace Index

The Global Peace Index ranks the safety of 163 countries for safety. It’s the world’s leading measure of global peace.  The last index was done in 2022.

Historically, countries like Chile and Uruguay have had higher rankings, reflecting their relatively stable political environment and low crime levels.  However, other countries in the continent have not fared as well.  As of my last update, countries such as Venezuela and Colombia had lower rankings on the Global Peace Index due to factors such as political instability, high crime rates and ongoing internal conflicts,

As you can see from the image above, not all countries are green.  However, if you compare the yellow countries, you can see that countries like the U.S. are orange, meaning the countries in this post are considered safer than the U.S. on the index.

The global peace index is a perfect thing to look at to measure the safety of countries you plan to visit. South America’s top 7 safest countries achieved rankings from 46-79.

U.S. Travel Advisories

If you’re an American citizen, the U.S. travel advisories should be the first place to look when deciding to visit a destination.  The advisory grades countries on a scale from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel) based on various factors, including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, and more.

None of the seven safest countries below has level 3 or 4 advisories across the whole country.  Some countries do have level 3 and 4 warnings in place, so do not travel to these areas.

However, each country is vast, and you should just exercise standard precautions when within the country.  If the entire country were dangerous, there would be a level 3 or 4 warning in place for the whole of the country.

If you are not a U.S. citizen.  The U.S. travel advisory is still one of the best places to look for information, but make sure you read your country’s travel advisory too, such as Gov.UK foreign travel advice for the U.K. or Smarttraveller for Australia.

Safe Countries in South America

If you’re looking for safe places to travel in South America, here’s an overview of the seven safest countries to visit.  This will hopefully help you plan your next South American Family Vacation .

1.  Uruguay

Global Peace Index Ranking : 46/163

Read the Most Recent U.S. Government Advisory for Uruguay Here

Uruguay, a gem tucked away in the southeastern region of South America, stands as the safest country in South America, according to the Global Peace Index.

The beautiful coastline is scattered with pristine beaches such as Punta del Este and Piriapolis.  Don’t miss out on a traditional Uruguayan barbecue at a local ‘parilla’, a must-do for food-loving families!

Another must-do is to see Colonia del Sacramento and explore the cobbled streets which are a UNESCO world heritage site.

Is Uruguay Safe in 2023?

Uruguay’s relatively low crime rates contribute massively to its position on the Peace Index.  Aside from the urban centres, crime rates are meagre.  The atmosphere is very peaceful and perfect for travel with kids.

However, while Uruguay enjoys overall low crime rates, the capital city of Montevideo does present some challenges.  It has seen an uptick in petty crimes like pickpocketing, muggings, and car break-ins.  These are more commonly encountered in urban centres, and increased caution is advised.

Though it’s crucial to note that these incidents don’t necessarily overshadow the country’s safety, they serve as a reminder to be vigilant.  As of June 2023, the U.S. government has a Level 2 advisory for crime in urban areas.

Uruguay also has good economic stability.  It stands as one of South America’s most economically developed countries, boasting a high standard of living and an impressively low level of corruption.

Global Peace Index Ranking : 55/163

Read the Most Recent U.S. Government Advisory for Chile Here

Chile emerges as a reliable choice for experiencing the vibrant cultures of South America.  The country’s landscapes are an alluring blend of extremes, from the Atacama Desert in the north to the labyrinthine fjords and glaciers in the Patagonia region in the south.

You can also visit vibrant cities such as Santiago with its captivating blend of traditional markets, colonial architecture, and contemporary arts set against a mountainous backdrop.

Here’s what you need to know about the safety of Chile

Is Chile Safe in 2023?

Chile has increased the Global Safety Index from 56 to 55 from 2021-2022.  You’ll find an effective healthcare system, modern infrastructure, and a stable political environment when you visit.  Graced with a modern infrastructure, an effective healthcare system, and a stable political environment.

Chile currently has a level 2 warning due to civil unrest and crime.  The demonstrations that marked 2019-2020 have since simmered down, but it’s still advisable to be aware of any potential gatherings in major cities.  Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and carjacking, is prevalent, as is the presence of unofficial taxis, which tourists should avoid for their safety.

Chile also has a risk of natural disasters, especially earthquakes and volcano eruptions, so you should keep up with the latest info before you visit.

3.  Argentina

Global Peace Index Ranking : 69/163

Read the Most Recent U.S. Government Advisory for Argentina Here

Argentina is renowned for its delicious cuisine, exciting culture and breathtaking natural scenery like Iguazu Falls, Patagonia and the plains of the Pampas.

Its capital, Buenos Aires , is arguably one of the world’s most exciting capitals; think a vibrant cafe culture, great architecture and history, amazing tango dancing and a pulsating nightlife.  It is also home so some passionate football teams and a tantalising food scene.

Is Argentina Safe to Travel in 2023?

Argentina has a generally peaceful feeling allowing you to enjoy your adventure without worrying.  Although there are no travel advisories for Argentina, as with any country, taking certain precautions is essential to ensure your safety.

Petty theft, including pickpocketing and muggings, is a concern, particularly in crowded tourist areas.  It’s recommended to be mindful of your belongings and adopt habits such as keeping handbags in your lap at restaurants, not leaving drinks unattended, and avoiding getting phones exposed on tables.  This also applies to you when travelling.  Places like the Retiro bus station in Buenos Aires and the Mendoza bus station are renowned for theft, especially when leaving luggage in the overhead compartment.

If you’re planning trips like hiking or trekking, it’s strongly advised not to venture alone.  Joining larger groups or guided tours can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.  In recent years, there have been unfortunate incidents involving solo hikers and climbers.

Lastly, while Argentina has seen its share of protests, these demonstrations are typically nonviolent.  However, they often lead to blocked streets and highways, potentially affecting travel plans.  For your safety, it’s best to stay informed about local news and avoid demonstrations if possible.

4.  Paraguay

Global Peace Index Ranking : 77/163

Read the Most Recent U.S. Government Advisory for Paraguay Here

Paraguay offers a unique blend of natural beauty and captivating cultural heritage. T he capital city, Asunción, is particularly famous for its vibrant energy, various family-friendly attractions, and hospitable locals, making it a must-visit spot on your itinerary.

Paraguay is not as commonly visited by foreign tourists as much as other countries on this list.  As a result, the people are genuinely delighted to see you!  There is also a rather sleepy backwater feel in much of the country.  That makes it really special to me!

Is Paraguay Safe in 2023?

Paraguay has no travel warning in place (Level 1).  As with any travel destination, some caution is necessary.

In certain areas, like Ciudad del Este on the Brazilian border and the Tri-Border Area of Paraguay, there have been instances of drug trafficking, so it’s wise to stay vigilant and informed about these regions.  While not rampant, city street crimes occur and require the usual travel precautions.

Demonstrations occur in Paraguay, and while they’re primarily peaceful, it’s always safer to avoid large gatherings or events.  As of June 2023, there are no travel advisories in place for Paraguay, which adds to the country’s appeal as a safe destination.  Yet, it’s always a good idea to stay updated on current events and potential disruptions.

Moreover, be mindful of individuals posing as service people.  These could be potential thieves trying to scam unsuspecting tourists.  As a rule, verify credentials and don’t leave your personal belongings unattended.

5.  Ecuador

Global Peace Index Ranking : 79/163

Read the Most Recent U.S. Government Advisory for Ecuador Here

With its diverse landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, beaches, and its famous Galapagos Islands, Ecuador offers a unique travel experience when travelling with kids.

Is Ecuador Safe in 2023?

Ecuador is the fifth safest country in South America.  Ecuador currently has a U.S. Level 2 warning in place, suggesting that you exercise increased caution.  There are many fantastic places for kids in Ecuador, but there are also places that are completely advised against visiting.

In Quito, be careful of neighborhoods such as La Marin, La Tola, La Michelina, San Roque, and others that have been noted for pickpocketing petty theft, and taxi robberies.  Areas such as Carchi, Sucumbíos, and the northern part of Esmeraldas province, including Esmeraldas city, also have high crime rates.

Particular attention is advised in Guayaquil, where the whole area is marked as either reconsider travel or do not travel.  The U.S. government restricts people from visiting these regions without prior permission from the Embassy’s security office.  The U.S. is also limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the area.

Global Peace Index Ranking : 80/163

Read the Most Recent U.S. Government Advisory for Bolivia Here

Bolivia is world renowned for its captivating landscapes like the Salar de Uyuni and the vibrant indigenous culture.  As the 6th safest country in South America, here’s what you need to know.

Is it Safe to Visit Bolivia in 2023?

Bolivia is the sixth safest country in South America.  However, it’s always wise to stay vigilant and heed local advice, especially in bigger cities, as the country is currently under a Level 2 Warning due to civil unrest.  This does not mean you don’t travel, it just means being aware and researching the areas to be wary of.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag thefts can be commonplace, particularly in tourist hotspots and on overnight buses.  Certain areas in Bolivia are known to pose more risks.  For example, Coroico and Carnavi in Yungas have reported incidents of carjackings and robberies committed by organized criminal groups.  As a rule, never leave personal belongings unattended to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Bolivia.

Avoid Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba, adjacent to the main bus terminal.  It is a place where you should exercise caution due to its high crime rate.  If you’re travelling by bus to La Paz, arrive during daylight hours and get your tickets from the bus terminal. However, you can avoid this if you book an organized tour or reputable transfer,

Having lived in Peru for over 10 years and had my first child in Cusco, I am obviously very comfortable travelling to Peru.  In my experience, the Peruvian government recognizes the importance of tourism to the country and economy and has spent vast resources “cleaning up” previously undesirable areas.  Peru’s ranking on this list as 7 th is a sad reflection of the protests that occurred earlier this year, as I find it overall a very safe place to travel in.

Peru is an incredible family-orientated country.  If you plan to travel to Peru with Kids , you’ve picked the perfect destination.  There are many unique Peruvian Foods and ample Places to See in Peru on Your Family Vacation .

You can visit amazing cities like Cusco, explore the Sacred Valley, explore pristine beaches and even climb Machu Picchu with Kids .  You can discover our best Peru Family Holiday Itineraries here .

Global Peace Index: 101/163

View the U.S. Travel Advisory for Peru Here

Is Peru Safe in 2023?

There was significant unrest during December and January, and at that time, the U.S. government – among many others – issued warnings against travel.  These warnings have since been removed.  I am travelling to Peru with my three kids in June 2023, so I am backing my own advice!

On Feb 21, organizers officially announced an end to the road blockades frustrating the free movement of pound goods throughout the country.  The Peruvian government also launched an initiative to restart the tourism industry, including a stimulus package to compensate affected workers, including guides and porters.

Check the U.S. Travel Advisory for Peru to verify what they are saying about safety in the country.  They have downgraded the overall travel advisory to a Level 2 for the entire country, with three distinct areas considered “Level 4 – Do not travel”.

Among these levels, four areas are known as the VRAEM – the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers – an area that has been off-limits to travelers for decades.  It is considered to house the remaining remnants of the Shining Path Terrorist Group active in the 80s and early 90s and continued to engage in drug trafficking.  Luckily, while this region includes a tiny section in the north-west of the Cusco department (which is equivalent to a state), it is nowhere near Cusco city, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu or any other tourist area in the Cusco region.

This is the confusing part: the name “Cusco” refers to the name of the department (state), province (county) and city.  It’s easy to confuse the three!  But rest assured – the Cusco tourist area is not affected by the terrorist activity in the VRAEM, never has been, and is hundreds of miles away.  For additional peace of mind, check out this map which shows the location of the VRAEM about Cusco City.

The Verdict – Final Words on the Safest South American Countries

South America is safe to travel, but you should ensure you travel to safe countries within South America.  Ensure you check U.S. travel advisories and advisories of the government where you are based.

These seven countries rank in the top 77 countries on the Global Peace Index in 2023, so if you’re planning a family trip to South America, these are the best options!

Safety in South America FAQs

Which country in south america is the safest.

As of June 2023. according to the world peace index, the safest country is Uruguay, which ranks 46 out of 163 countries.

Where Not to Go in South America?

Do not go to any places with level 4 travel advisory warnings for the country as a whole by the U.S. government.  If a small part of the country has a level 4 warning, you can still travel to that country, but NOT that specific area.  You should reconsider travelling to that area if there is a level 3 warning.

What Should I be Careful of in South America?

South America covers a vast area, and you should check the U.S. travel advisory for specific areas to be careful of.  However, common issues include theft, demonstrations and natural disaster risks.  Not all areas and countries in South America have these dangers.

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6 Safe South American Countries and Tips for Your Trip

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Buenos Aires, Argentina

For travelers eager to explore the diversity of nature and culture, South America is safe to visit, and we highlight the countries to travel to on vacation and tips to consider for your trip.

From Argentina to the Galapagos Islands, travelers can confidently discover the continent’s diverse regions and cultural hubs with an understanding of what makes it alluring.

In this guide, we discuss some of the safest South American countries for your trip. We also share safety tips and information on how a travel expert can help you discover the continent according to your preferences.

2. Argentina

4. ecuador & the galapagos islands, 6. colombia, safety tips for traveling in south america, discover safely with the help of a south america travel expert.

Santiago, Chile

Ranking as one of the safest countries in South America and the world, Chile remains a favorite travel destination for its epic scenery and cultural diversity.

It is a colorful country full of captivating outdoor activities, cultural cities, and coastal sanctuaries. Breathtaking beaches and glamorous cities line Chile’s Pacific coast, glacial national parks paint Chilean Patagonia’s landscape, and Mars-like mountains rise and fall amongst the sweeping sands of the Atacama Desert.

Natural disasters do occur in Chile from time to time. However, your travel specialist can arrange an itinerary to the safest places in the country during the best time to visit for specific experiences.

Safest Places to Visit in Chile: Santiago • Torres del Paine National Park • Chiloe Island • Pucon • Atacama Desert • Easter Island

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Chile • Chile Travel Guide

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil

Argentina is a popular travel destination and a safe country to visit. Violent crime rates are low, locals are friendly, and remote areas are easily accessible.

Many flock to Argentina to explore the vibrant capital of Buenos Aires. The city is alive with culture and you can visit historic landmarks, tuck into authentic asado , and twirl with tango performers. As Buenos Aires is busy, pickpocketing and petty crime are possible. For this reason, a short stay in the capital is often followed by trips to Mendoza, Cordoba, and other gateways to Argentina’s picturesque countryside and Argentine Patagonia.

Traveling to Argentina’s remote regions and national parks with guides is safe, as these places are tranquil, welcoming, and fit with exquisite accommodations.

Safest Places to Visit in Argentina: Buenos Aires • Glaciers National Park • Iguazu Falls • Mendoza • Córdoba • Ushuaia

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Argentina • Argentina Travel Guide

Machu Picchu, Peru

Spend time immersing yourself in mysterious Peruvian culture on tours to this remarkable and safe destination.

Peru is a magical place to visit, with postcard-perfect landscapes, ancient cultural customs and traditions to uncover, and an adventurous culinary scene to experience. With rare incidents of crime in Peru’s major cities affecting travelers, you can move freely, but with vigilance, during your travels with knowledgeable guides.

You can spend your time exploring Peru’s most magnificent places, such as the Incan marvel of Machu Picchu and the diverse Amazon Rainforest. Traveling with Peruvian experts to warm and welcoming villages, you should experience great hospitality and safety.

Safest Places to Visit in Peru: Machu Picchu • Iquitos • Arequipa • Colca Canyon • Lima • Chachapoyas

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Peru • Peru Travel Guide

Bartolomé Island in the Galapagos, Ecuador

Many parts of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are completely safe. The small but scenic country and its surrounding islands are a dream to discover, with guides who take you on tours to its safest areas.

You should proceed with caution through busy cities as petty crime is possible. However, you will likely spend your vacation in quiet villages full of cultural charm and friendly locals. You will also cross the sparkling seas to lavish multiple-star accommodations overlooking the brilliant blue water. These coastal retreats are exceptionally safe and expert guides lead experiences on breathtaking beaches, in scuba-diving destinations, and magnificent forests.

There are far fewer risks in the southern cities, quiet Ecuador communities, and on the islands, making your experience safe.

Safest Places to Visit in Ecuador & Galapagos Islands: Galapagos Islands • Montañita • Cuenca • Quito • Chocó Cloud Forest • Archidona • Puerto Ayora

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands • Galapagos Islands and Ecuador Travel Guide

Salvador, Brazil

Tourism booms in Brazil and visitors enjoy the best places to visit across the country on tours that are safe.

Brazil’s most popular cities attract visitors from all over, eager to explore landmarks and landscapes, among them the Christ the Redeemer statue and bustling beaches. From contemporary museums in Rio to the Amazon Rainforest, you can experience the best of the country on tours with expert guides. Though petty crime and theft occur in the busier parts of Brazil, you can remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings to keep safe during your travels.

Despite its reputation among some travelers, you can travel to Brazil with confidence when following the guidance of your travel guides and taking basic safety precautions into consideration. This is the best way to experience Brazil’s unending beauty and friendly culture.

Safest Places to Visit in Brazil: Salvador • Aracaju • Vitória da Conquista • Maceió • Feira de Santana • Belem

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Brazil • Brazil Travel Guide

Salento, Colombia

Colombia is a safe country to travel to as tours can take you to modern cities, remote islands, and beautiful countryside, where crime rates are relatively low.

As you explore this exciting country and its many culturally dazzling cityscapes or breathtaking beaches, you can feel comfortable and confident with knowledgeable local guides. With an understanding of the safest places to visit and specific areas to avoid, you can enjoy the pleasures of travel without worrying.

It is advisable to take precautions in busy cities as petty crime, although rare, is possible. However, keeping your personal belongings concealed and your wits about you should help you avoid any risks. Contrary to an outdated reputation, Colombia is far more secure than most travelers perceive.

Safest Places to Visit in Colombia: Salento • Guatape • Cartagena • Palomino • Tayrona National Park • Villa de Leyva • Minca • Medellin

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Colombia • Colombia Travel Guide

Moon Valley in the Atacama Desert, Chile

South America is vast and each country possesses remarkably different terrain and culture for unique experiences that cross regions and borders.

Travelers can stay safe on tours by remaining vigilant, following the guidance of tour guides, and protecting their trip with travel insurance. Below, we discuss some of the most common strategies with which to travel the continent safely.

1. Research Your Chosen Country

Once you have decided on your destination, conduct additional research. You can gain valuable insight into your chosen country by cross-referencing safety information.

This resource highlights the safest countries to visit and the safest places to visit in those countries. Additional research will shed light on the country’s current affairs, economic situation, and political unrest.

Learn more: South America Travel Guide

2. Select Appropriate Transportation

You can enjoy safe trips in South America by selecting appropriate modes of transportation for your adventure. Some options are more reliable than others in terms of safety and logistics. For example, we recommend booking private transfers to remote regions and tours through the cities.

We do not recommend renting a vehicle in South America. It is safer and less stressful to travel with private transfers and guides. Your experienced driver and guide are familiar with the best routes, road conditions, and potential hazards or risks.

3. Be Mindful of Your Personal Belongings

Although rarely affecting visitors, petty crime is possible in busy cities and crowded areas. As with any international vacation, you should remain vigilant and be mindful of your surroundings and belongings while in South America.

You should stow your valuable items safely in a backpack or hidden travel bag attached to your person. You should also follow the guidance of your travel expert in handling your baggage in and out of transfers when applicable. Often, guides will advise that you only bring essentials on tours and do not carry excess money with you.

All of these tips are to keep travelers safe, regardless of crime rates and potential risks. You should adhere to these general recommendations wherever you are in the world.

4. Note Emergency Information Beforehand

You should have a comprehensive list of emergency information before you depart for South America. Ambulance contact information in the areas you visit, contact details for your travel guides, and the nearest public place to your location are important things to know when you travel.

You can research this information before your journey or chat with our Travel Care team for all the relevant emergency information for South America. As you plan your trip, they will provide updated emergency information to give you peace of mind.

5. Carry Travel Documentation with You

You should always carry hard copies and have digital records of your travel documentation when visiting South America. When traveling internationally, situations may arise where government officials, hotel administrators, tour operators, and others require proof of travel documentation.

Having a digital version of necessary documents makes these kinds of checks easy. Having hard copies is beneficial in rural areas without modern technological infrastructure. Possessing a combination of both can greatly reduce the impact of stressful situations when visiting South America.

The types of travel documentation or information you should have copies of include:

• Personal medical information
• Pertinent information regarding any condition(s) from your doctor, especially any medication you are taking
• Emergency contact information
• Visa, if necessary
• Proof of airline tickets and reservations
• Customs forms and documents
• Hotel or accommodation reservations
• Travel and medical insurance

You can stow printed documents in your luggage or a backpack when traveling in and across South America, while keeping digital versions readily available on your mobile device.

6. Cover Your Trip with Travel Insurance

It is paramount that you book travel insurance for the duration of your trip. The best is tailored to your vacation and will protect you in the event of an emergency.

These policies will cover the costs of cancellations, provide financial protection against emergency medical situations, enable booking flexibility during your trip, and mitigate travel risks as a result of global disasters.

Learn more: Zicasso Travel Insurance with Arch RoamRight

Easter Island, Chile

Zicasso travelers visiting South America can have their questions answered by a travel expert. With unmatched knowledge of safety in the region and its safest countries, they can elaborate further on the information in this resource.

Our South America Travel Care team will help you plan a safe journey. Your designated expert is available from the moment you contact our team or submit a trip request, and even after you have arrived home. You can contact them at any time for further information, safety insight, and on-the-fly changes to your itinerary. Find inspiration for where to travel with our South America tours and vacations featured itineraries or explore our best countries to visit in South America .

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Navigating the Safest Cities in South America

Which South American cities could a tourist visit without anxiety? Safety is usually the number one concern among travelers. To inform your travels, this article will give you a run-down of the safest cities in South America.

South America has always been a favored travel destination, renowned for its awe-inspiring natural wonders, diverse ecosystems, and lively urban landscapes. While it may have once held a reputation for being less secure, significant strides have been made to enhance safety across the continent in recent years. 

While no destination can guarantee absolute safety, there has never been a more reasonable and secure time to explore South America’s finest cities.

Before finalizing your itinerary and booking your trip, thoroughly research your destination’s safety and security situation.

 In this article, our attention will be directed toward the safest cities in South America that are popular among tourists.

Table of Contents

Top 14 Safest Cities in South America

Here are the 14 safest South American cities you should visit on your next vacation. 

1. Montevideo, Uruguay

Renowned for its tranquility and easy-going ambiance, Montevideo, Uruguay , stands as one of the safest cities in Latin America, making it a prime choice for travelers seeking a relaxed destination. According to the Global Peace Index , Uruguay proudly holds the top spot for safety in the region.

This ranking makes Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, an ideal starting point for exploration. With a population of 1.3 million, this medium-sized city is gaining popularity among tourists, who are drawn to its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and delightful climate.

As the country’s financial hub, Montevideo welcomes tourists with historic landmarks like Solis Theatre, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Cabildo in Ciudad Vieja. Explore museums like the National Museum of Visual Arts and enjoy Pocitos Beach for water sports and relaxation. As night falls, experience the city’s lively nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Best Things To Do in Montevideo:

• Walk around Plaza Independencia
• Have lunch and dinner at Mercado del Puerto
• Take photos of the historical Salvo Palace

2. Santiago, Chile

Santiago , the bustling capital of Chile, is one of the safest cities in South America . With a population of over seven million, this vibrant metropolis boasts a remarkable blend of modernity and history. Santiago’s commitment to safety is evident through its well-maintained public spaces, efficient public transportation, and proactive law enforcement efforts.

Travelers can explore many cultural attractions, from the iconic Plaza de Armas to the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral and the historic Palacio de La Moneda. The city’s thriving arts scene and numerous museums offer enriching experiences for visitors of all interests.

Best Things To Do in Santiago:

• Visit the Plaza de Armas
• Explore the Cerro San Cristobal
• Visit the Mercado Central

3. Punta Arenas, Chile

Punta Arenas , situated in Chile’s southernmost region of Magallanes and Antartica Chilena, serves as a gateway for exploring Patagonia, attracting travelers to its population of approximately 150,000 people. 

Punta Arenas maintains a relatively secure environment for visitors. Petty theft is the primary concern, and it can be avoided through prudent judgment.

For adventurers seeking to unravel the wonders of Patagonia , Punta Arenas is an excellent destination. The city boasts several landmarks like Plaza Muñoz Gamero, Palacio Sara Braun, and Museo Regional de Magallanes. Travelers can visit the nearby Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and hiking trails, such as the infamous W-Trek in the National Park . 

Punta Arenas is renowned for its delectable seafood, especially the much-loved king crab, a delicacy savored by tourists.

Best Things To Do in Punta Arenas:

• Visit the Nao Victoria Museum
• Walk around Plaza Muñoz Gamero
• Explore the Parque del Estrecho de Magallanes

4. Mendoza, Argentina

Nestled in Argentina’s picturesque wine country and embraced by the majestic Andes Mountains, Mendoza stands out as one of South America’s safest cities. Its tranquil and hospitable ambiance invites travelers to explore its scenic parks, historic plazas, and renowned vineyards without worry. Thanks to a strong focus on community safety, Mendoza maintains a low crime rate, assuring visitors a peaceful and enjoyable experience.

Located in western Argentina, like any city, Mendoza experiences petty crimes such as fraud and burglary. However, the city is notably free from violent crimes like murders and kidnappings, reassuring those planning a trip to this charming destination. By staying vigilant and taking common-sense precautions, travelers can fully embrace Mendoza’s beauty and cultural treasures with a sense of security.

Tourists can indulge in various outdoor activities, from hiking and horseback riding in the Andean foothills to rafting along the Mendoza River. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, lively festivals, and art exhibitions promise an enriching experience for all.

Best Things To Do in Mendoza:

• Take a bike tour of the wineries
• Visit Plaza Independencia and the city center of Mendoza
• Go on a wine tour

5. Arequipa, Peru 

Arequipa , also known as “The White City,” is surrounded by the remote desert of Peru. It is the second-most populous city in the country after Lima. The city is safe and prides itself on its stunning architecture, delicious local cuisines, and amazing views of nature. Start exploring from Plaza de Armas and try as many cuisines as possible.

Although Arequipa is known as one of the safest cities in South America, it is essential to remember common crimes that may occur to prevent being victimized. Petty crimes like pickpocketing are prevalent, particularly in crowded tourist spots, so staying vigilant and keeping valuables in sight is crucial. Another common crime is scamming by fake taxi drivers, who target unsuspecting tourists. 

To avoid this, it is advisable to use only registered taxis or those arranged by your hotel or restaurant for safe transportation.

Best Things To Do in Arequipa:

• Visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina
• Explore the Colca Canyon
• Walk around the Plaza de Armas

6. Florianopolis, Brazil

Florianopolis, Brazil , proudly earns its reputation as one of the safest cities in South America, making it a top destination for travelers seeking a secure and enjoyable experience. Situated on the stunning island of Santa Catarina, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of breathtaking beaches, lush nature, and a thriving urban scene, all within a safe and welcoming environment.

With a strong emphasis on public safety, Florianopolis ensures that visitors can freely explore its pristine beaches , such as Joaquina and Campeche, and indulge in various water sports without concerns. Its well-maintained parks and nature reserves, like the Lagoa do Peri and Costa da Lagoa, offer serene retreats amidst nature’s wonders.

Stay cautious of common crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas, and use registered taxis to avoid scams. While women can feel secure during the daytime, it’s best to be accompanied at night, especially at beaches and bars. Visitors can savor Florianopolis’ beauty by staying vigilant, from its beaches to its delightful Brazilian cuisine.

Best Things To Do in Florianopolis:

• Go surfing with a qualified instructor
• Take a boat ride to Ilha do Campeche
• Go sandboarding at Dunas de Joaquina

7. Cuenca, Ecuador 

Cuenca is a good tourist destination and the safest place for expats to live in South America. The city has only 660,000 residents, which makes it much less crowded for tourists. With a low crime rate and a strong commitment to public safety, visitors can freely wander through its cobblestone streets, marvel at its historic architecture, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Cuenca’s warm and welcoming locals add to its appeal, ensuring a friendly and secure environment for tourists. Whether exploring its numerous museums, admiring the stunning cathedrals, or enjoying the local cuisine at bustling markets, travelers can do so with peace of mind.

While Cuenca is generally safe , it’s best to avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit or isolated areas. Stick to well-lit and populated spots, or use a taxi when necessary. 

Best Things To Do in Cuenca:

• Walking tour through the Historic Center
• Visit the Pumapungo Museum & Ruins
• Explore El Cajas National Park

8. Sucre, Bolivia

Sucre, Bolivia, proudly holds its reputation as one of the safest cities in South America, making it an inviting destination for travelers. Sucre’s lower incidence of petty crime, combined with its manageable size compared to larger urban centers in the country, contributes to its secure environment. While travelers should remain cautious and aware of certain crimes, such as property crimes and occasional assault reports, following general safety tips ensures a pleasant and worry-free experience. 

This historically significant city, known for its rich culture and pleasant climate, continues to attract visitors seeking a safe and enriching adventure in Bolivia.

Best Things To Do in Sucre:

• Visit the Museo del Tesoro
• Admire the view from Recoleta
• Explore Plaza 25 de Mayo

9. Cordoba, Argentina 

Cordoba is Argentina’s second-largest city. It is also one of the safest cities in South America, making it ideal for travelers seeking a secure and enjoyable experience. With a rich history and vibrant cultural scene, Cordoba perfectly blends tradition and modernity in a safe environment. 

Visitors can explore its well-preserved colonial architecture, captivating museums, and picturesque plazas with peace of mind. Cordoba’s friendly locals and proactive safety measures create a welcoming atmosphere for tourists, ensuring a worry-free and memorable stay in this charming Argentine city. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so staying vigilant and keeping belongings secure is advisable to fully enjoy the city’s splendor.

Best Things To Do in Cordoba:

• Cordoba city tour
• Visit the Museo de la Memoria
• Try empanadas and locro

10. Bucaramanga, Colombia 

Bucaramanga is another Colombian city that has drastically improved over the last decade. It boasts remarkably low levels of violent crime, and theft and robbery incidents are notably fewer than in Bogota . When selecting accommodations, opt for the trendy Nuevo Sotomayor district. After nightfall, it is prudent to use taxi or Uber services for transportation, and exercising caution with phones and valuables is always strongly encouraged.

Nestled in the picturesque Andes Mountains, this vibrant city offers a perfect balance of urban amenities and natural wonders in a safe environment. Visitors can explore its charming parks, historic plazas, and cultural attractions with peace of mind. Bucaramanga’s friendly locals and effective safety measures create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a worry-free and memorable stay in this delightful Colombian city.

Best Things To Do in Bucaramanga:

• Visit Parque Nacional de Chicamocha
• Visit La Casa del Libro Total
• A day trip to the Heritage Town of Girón

11. Cusco, Peru

Cusco stands proudly as one of the safest cities in South America, making it an exceptional destination for travelers seeking a secure and unforgettable experience. As the gateway to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, this historic city blends rich culture with stunning landscapes in a safe and welcoming environment. Visitors can explore its well-preserved Inca ruins, cobblestone streets, and vibrant markets with peace of mind. 

Cusco’s warm hospitality and effective safety measures create a friendly atmosphere, ensuring a worry-free and magical stay in this captivating Peruvian city.

While generally safe, be cautious of street crime in certain areas, such as Bélen, Puente Santiago, and the Santiago district. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and stay cautious in tourist-populated spots. Enjoy Cusco’s wonders with vigilance for a worry-free experience.

Best Things To Do in Cusco:

• Explore the San Blas district
• Hike the Inca trail
• Try the Peruvian cooking class

12. Medellin, Colombia

Medellin has transformed itself from a drug city to a tourist destination in the last two decades. However, the crime hasn’t disappeared completely, but to an extent where you can safely enjoy Medellin . 

The city also has a metro cable system, so moving from one place to another is exciting and quite adventurous. The metro cable system is a site on its own, making beautiful pictures of the surrounding areas and getting the birdseye view.

When you’re visiting Medellin, you have to visit the Comuna 13 and try the street food in that area while you are there. If you’re looking for a day trip, I can’t recommend visiting Guatape from Medellin and either climbing the Piedra de Peñol or walking around Guatape and exploring the town.

Best Things To Do in Medellin:

• Visit Comuna 13 and See the Street Art
• Ride The Metrocable
• Visit Museum Pablo Escobar

13. Asunción, Paraguay 

Asunción, Paraguay’s capital, is a secure and inviting city, earning its place among the safest destinations in South America. Nestled along the banks of the Paraguay River, this vibrant metropolis exudes a unique blend of modernity and traditional charm. With a relatively low crime rate compared to other South American cities, Asunción provides residents and visitors with a sense of security and peace of mind.

For your safety, always keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, secure. Also, avoid walking alone after dark and steer clear of isolated or poorly lit areas at night.

Best Things To Do in Asunción:

• Discover birds and enjoy nature
• Embrace history at Casa de la Independencia
• Explore La Costanera

14. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is one of the biggest cities in South America. This capital of Argentina is home to over 15 million people. The city is famous for its exciting nightlife and stunning architecture. Here, you can also find the best food in Argentina . Try asado and parrilla, some of the greatest meat dishes in the world. 

The city is quite safe during the daytime, but the same can’t be said for the nighttime. Violent crimes aren’t much of a concern; however, petty crimes at night are a big issue. Take a taxi to travel at night to avoid walking alone on the streets. This highly depends on where you stay, so research the safest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires before you visit. 

Best Things To Do in Buenos Aires:

• Visit Recoleta Cemetery
• Explore Palermo
• Take a Tango Lesson

Traveling in South America 

Traveling in developed countries such as Argentina , Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay is convenient. The bus services in these countries are top-notch. Some of the best bus services are Cruz del Sur (Peru), Pullman (Chile), Flechabus (Argentina), Util (Brazil), and Andesmar (Argentina).

Traveling by air is pretty expensive, so the next option most tourists go for is renting a car. The roads in South America are pretty well maintained. However, the only difficulty would be accessing the remote areas. 

5 Expert Tips for Safe Travel in South American Cities

Here are six expert tips to travel safely in South American cities.

• Most tourist attractions are filled with pickpockets, so keep your items safe in a backpack. 
• Never agree on the first asking price when shopping at markets or on the streets. Always try to bargain to find the lowest possible price. 
• Stay in crowds and blend in with locals while traveling at night. 
• Don’t fight with muggers if something were to happen. Your life is worth more than anything. 
• Keep only as much cash as you need. 

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing , which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Safest Cities in South America 

What is the safest city in south america.

Montevideo, Uruguay, is widely regarded as the safest place in South America, as mentioned by the Global Peace Index. It offers travelers a delightful blend of beachfront vibes, a thriving food culture, and a mix of colonial and modern architecture in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. 

What Is the Safest Place To Live in South America?

Generally, some South American countries and cities are considered safer than others based on crime rates and political stability. Historically, countries like Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina have been considered safer places to live in South America.

Uruguay has earned a reputation for being one of the safest countries in South America, with low crime rates and a stable political environment. Chile is also known for its relatively safe cities like Santiago and Punta Arenas. Argentina, particularly cities like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, has also seen improvements in safety in recent years.

What Is the Safest Country in South America To Visit?

Uruguay consistently ranks high on the Global Peace Index, making it South America’s safest country to visit. Its reputation for low crime rates, stable democracy, and high standard of living makes it a secure destination.

Is Chile or Argentina Safer?

According to the Global Peace Index, which assesses security and safety in different countries, Chile is ranked 55 out of 163, while Argentina is 69. Nevertheless, Chile and Argentina are considered relatively safe compared to other South American nations.

Conclusion – Safest Cities in South America

Common sense is the best precaution against crimes and other stressful misdemeanors when traveling to a foreign city. Being well-informed and prepared about the safety situation of your destination comes second. Make sure you do your due diligence and bring your street smarts during your South American adventure.

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

Skyscanner is my trusted ally for booking flights, guiding me to the perfect travel options while making the journey planning process a breeze with its user-friendly interface and extensive search capabilities.

12Go Asia is my ultimate travel companion in Asia, offering the best budget service platform for seamless booking of trains, buses, ferries, and flights, ensuring every adventure unfolds smoothly and effortlessly.

Booking.com is my ultimate lodging partner. It offers many accommodations worldwide and simplifies my travel experiences with its user-friendly platform and unbeatable deals.

Get Your Guide is my go-to for personalized travel experiences, enriching my journeys with unique tours and activities curated to my interests, making every adventure unforgettable and tailored to my preferences.

SafetyWing is my peace of mind on the go, offering comprehensive travel medical insurance with affordable plans and hassle-free claims, ensuring I can explore the world worry-free, knowing I’m protected wherever I roam.

LifeStraw Go Bottle is my trusted hydration companion for outdoor adventures, filtering water on-the-go to keep me safe and hydrated, ensuring every hike or travel experience is worry-free and enjoyable.

Related Reads:

• Is Colombia Safe for Tourists? 10 Safest Cities To Travel
• Is Argentina Safe? 3 Safest Places To Travel This Year

Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter

• Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
• Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
• Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.

Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.

The 6 Safest Countries in South America To Visit

The safest countries in South America are Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Colombia and Peru. Check out why these are the best options.

Sarah Rand • Oct 10, 2023

Traveling to South America has plenty of appeal to attract many types of tourists. The continent has at times had a questionable reputation, but continues to be a hub for both travelers and expats . 

Before planning and setting out on your trip to South America, be sure to get to know more about your destination’s safety level for visitors and temporary residents. To help, Travel Noire has put together a list of the safest countries in South America for travelers who want to take a quick trip or plan on embarking on an extended stay. 

Which Countries Are Safest for Tourist Travel?

Safety is an issue that should be taken seriously when traveling abroad. This is particularly true when visiting somewhere new and unfamiliar. The community of a chosen destination can really make or break the entire experience of a trip. While some parts of South America are deemed dangerous, there are also plenty of safe countries that could be perfect for that next travel destination experience. 

Learn more about each of these South American countries that have relatively good Global Peace Index’s (GPI) scores. GPI scores are a quantification produced by the Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP) each year that helps to navigate the safety levels of different countries. Higher scores, on a scale from 1-5, represent a higher level of violence.

Uruguay 

Uruguay’s culture is very calm since it is a relatively small country with a small population. It is known as a very friendly country for foreigners and even has a fairly simple route for obtaining residency. Uruguay is considered one of the safest countries to visit in all of Latin America and has one of the lowest crime rates too. Uruguay’s 2023 GPI score of 1.8 positions the country as the 2nd most peaceful country in the region.

To accommodate travelers, it is common for tours and excursions to include professional tour guides and transportation. Community is incredibly important here, so travelers feel welcome and usually want to make a trip back. Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay and is a great representation of its inviting culture. The capital makes for a great destination spot for first-time visitors who want a feel for this country and its communities.

Argentina is a country in the southern half of South America and is the second largest country in South America (after Brazil). The country is a popular tourist destination for backpackers because of its natural landscapes. Argentina is home to the Andes Mountains, Pampas Grasslands and Iguazu Falls, which attracts tourists from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy taking road trips and indulging in the best Malbec wine in the world (Mendoza, Argentina is the wine capital of the world). Argentina is such a warm and welcoming country that it is considered one of the safest to travel to in Latin America , with its 1.84 GPI score.

Chile 

Chile is a country on the western edge of South America that is filled with natural beauty. In fact, the most popular tourist attraction in Chile is the Torres Del Paine National Park, which has crystal clear lakes, sprawling vineyards and icy glaciers (and many other things to see). To the north is the driest desert in the world, Atacama. Santiago is the capital city of Chile and is a great place to stay for those that want to be around central areas. The vibrant city is a growing metropolitan area, but navigating it is manageable with sensible travel precautions. Since Chile’s GPI score stands at 1.87, it is the fourth safest country in the Latin America overall.

South America’s Safest Countries for Digital Nomads and Expats 

Remote work has been on the rise ever since the COVID-19 pandemic hit and it does not seem to be letting up. The days of rushing out of the house to sit in traffic are over. Now, remote workers and expats can travel all over the world while also making corporate, freelance or entrepreneurial money. Being able to switch your background (not just in zoom meetings) either periodically or on a whim is the new norm. So, it is completely understandable that remote workers have flocked to tropical and diverse countries that offer digital nomad visas with little fuss, like these options in South America.

Paraguay is a subtropical land locked country and is one of the most affordable Latin American countries. The country is not very well known and has a growing economy, but the visit is well worth it for travelers that appreciate less tourist focused destinations. The cultural melting pot and stunning natural landscapes (like Ypacaraí Lake) of Paraguay attracts visitors that want to witness its unique offerings. Due to it being an underrated destination that is less explored than tourist hotspots in South America, expats and travelers can expect less crowds. Expats will enjoy Paraguay for its shopping hubs and affordable cost of living.

Safety in Paraguay is not a serious issue. The country boasts a 1.94 GPI score and is in 6th place among Latin American countries. Since the country has a relatively good score, travelers can exercise regular precautions while in Paraguay. Areas like Encarnación and San Lorenzo are among the safest to visit, although travelers should use their discretion when exploring the country. For travelers, the open spaces and tranquil nature at every turn may trump the occasionally fickle internet service. Digital nomads who require constant internet connection may not be a good fit for Paraguay, since the country experiences some power cuts during storms that last up to a few hours.

Ecuador is a small country with incredible biodiversity and an underrated digital nomad community . It is home to the Andes, a part of the Amazon Rainforest and the famed Galápagos Islands. While there are natural disasters that occur occasionally, like floods and earthquakes, there are safety procedures for emergencies so most travelers need only worry about petty crime when visiting Ecuador. The country has a 2.1 GPI score, which is an improvement from recent years.

Cuenca, the third largest city in Ecuador, is a tourist friendly place with relatively low crime rates, warm community and distinction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . While in major cities, travelers should be sure to take regular precautions since Ecuador is relatively safe, excluding some protests. Expats can expect warm weather through out the year, welcoming locals and a low cost of living in Ecuador. The internet connection in Ecuador is dependable and easy to arrange since there are plenty of plan and price options. Travelers will even find that there are ample cafes, malls and hotels that can provide service if they choose to not depend on mobile data.

Colombia 

Colombia offers metropolitan cities and beautiful beaches, at a fraction of the cost (compared to Western countries). With one of the best healthcare programs in the world, it is no mystery why Colombia is a hotspot for expats . Medellín, Colombia is a great city for remote work and attracts tourists from all over the world with its year round warm weather. For travelers who opt to live and work in areas temporarily, this city is a great option. The country of Colombia is very affordable and has a thriving coffee shop scene, which remote workers will appreciate. There are programs that offer co-working spaces and accommodation that are not hard to come by and the cost of living is low. 

While Colombia does not have the most impressive GPI score, with a 2.69, many expats still appreciate the country. While the GPI score has worsened in recent years, expats still frequent the country. Expats should of course stay vigilant and as locals say, “no dar papaya” which (loosely) translates to “do not make yourself a target” by leaving expensive things unattended or walking alone in poorly lit areas. Safety largely depends on what neighborhood or area travelers are staying in. Smaller cities like Pereira, Colombia offer relatively lower crime rates than big cities (like Medellín).

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Safest Countries in South America

April 8, 2020

Browse 2,000+ tours to South America

It just may surprise you that South America is in a more peaceful state than the US according to the 2019 Global Peace Index report. But, no matter where in the world you’re planning your next adventure, there are some important safety considerations. 

South America is made up of 12 different countries each with its own geopolitical climate: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

The Global Peace Index report names Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, and Uruguay as the most peaceful countries but as of this writing, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution (Level 2) when traveling to Chile, Ecuador, and Uruguay along with several other South American countries because of crime and civil unrest. Venezuela is at Level 4, a “do not travel” advisory so always check before you go. 

One reason to choose a guided tour in South America is because their in-country experience can provide an extra layer of safety. With the exception of Venezuela; however, this doesn’t mean you can’t travel unguided or even solo in South America. Read on for safety tips and more on solo travel. 

Travel Safety Tips in South America 

How to travel safely should be on everyone’s mind not only during trip research and preparation but also during the trip itself.

Here are some safety tips that apply no matter where you’re traveling. It’s important to remember that high levels of poverty, especially in Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela, can create conditions that lead to higher levels of crime, particularly petty theft. 

1. Valuables . Leave valuables locked in a safe in the hotel room. Even better, don’t bring them at all. Don’t wear jewelry. A thin gold chain has more value to some than you may think. It’s amazing how quickly it can disappear even when not distracted.

Unfortunately, distraction scams are all too common in some areas, particularly in larger cities where poverty is more prevalent. Consider keeping minimal cash in more than one place and keep an emergency credit card in the hotel safe. 

2. Places to avoid . Ask your hotel for places you should avoid and if they say not to go during the day, certainly don’t go there at night. 

3. Scams . ATM scams, people posing as fake police asking for your identity as a distraction tactic, and fake taxis (Ecuador and possibly elsewhere) are things to look out for. 

4. Driving in South America . Argentinians, Brazilians, and Bolivians are known for their reckless driving. The rules of the road aren’t often followed or enforced and conditions can be hazardous.

Road signs, if they exist, may definitely not be up to American standards. It’s best to obtain an international driving permit if you plan to drive in South America. Travel.State.Gov provides more information on driving and road safety by destination. 

5. Large bags . Backpacks especially are good targets for thieves as they’re likely loaded with lots of items of potential value and worn behind you, it’s an easier target. Keep whatever you’re carrying to a minimum and keep it close to your body.

A loose bag strap is a perfect snatch and run target. Keep things out of easy reach; for example, avoid laying your purse down on an open-air restaurant tabletop. Consider buying a lock for your bag to deter thieves. 

6. Health . The health infrastructure isn’t what it is in the US. Especially if you have a health condition, have a plan. Of course, make sure you take any medications with you. 

7. Move Like a Local . Dress like the locals whenever possible so as to not draw attention to yourself. This also signals respect for the local culture. Know where you’re going - you’re more likely to walk with confidence which can deter would-be thieves and, you’re less likely to end up in a bad part of town. 

8. Be Prepared . Keep a record of what’s in your wallet including credit card numbers and the credit card customer service numbers in case they’re stolen. Make copies of your passport and International Driver’s Permit. Keep these in a hotel safe. 

9. Cell Phone, Internet and Tracking . Avoid public wi-fi by setting up your own mobile hotspot (you’ll need a SIM card) and password protect, enable tracking, and install wiping software on your phone so you can destroy the data if it’s stolen. Consider not using geotags when posting to social sites so thieves can’t track where you are. 

10. Be Observant . Keep an eye out for things that don’t look right and while it’s better to use your phone’s GPS than a map which screams not being familiar with where you are, try to limit the time you spend with your head buried in your cell phone. Burying your head in your cell phone can be especially tempting to do on a bus or train.

Now that you’ve considered how to be safe when traveling to South America, it’s time to think about where to go and where not to go. 

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Safest Places to Travel in South America 

1.  argentina.

The wild terrain of  Patagonia , European flair of Buenos Aires, and largest waterfalls in the world,  Iguazu Falls , draws millions of tourists to Argentina each year. Their dollars reinforce the industry which means, in general, a higher degree of safety.

Chile isn’t too far behind Argentina when it comes to the number of tourists that flock there each year whether to spend time in the capital of Santiago, the Atacama Desert or explore the mysteries of  Easter Island . Recent civil unrest has led to demonstrations that present risks to personal safety so stay aware. 

3.  Ecuador

Each year, over 2 million tourists travel to Ecuador to experience the  Galapagos Islands , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the still active Cotopaxi Volcano, and Festival of the Sun, Inti Raymi among other attractions. Like Chile, civil unrest and crime do exist as it exists in many other parts of the world. Again, be aware. 

4.  Uruguay

Uruguay, Argentina, Chile and Ecuador all rank high on the Global Peace Index report. Lots of local tourists from adjacent Argentina and Brazil visit Uruguay and for international tourists making their way to Argentina or Brazil, Uruguay is often overlooked. Visit its capital, Montevideo, with its colonial architecture, 15 miles of Atlantic coastline and peaceful vibe.  

5. Paraguay

Paraguay, land locked by  Brazil , Bolivia, and Argentina is geographically isolated. This has likely contributed to tourists numbering under one million each year but those who go are said to cry once when they arrive and again when they leave.

It could be, too, that Paraguay’s wilderness and large population of indegenous people in the western Chaco along with its largely unexplored north filled with marshes, lagoons, and rainforest begets less turbulence.

While Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Uruguay, and Paraguay often make the list when it comes to the safest places to travel in South America, it’s a good idea to do your own research on safety when you’re planning your travel.

Even if a country is at Level 1 where normal precautions are advised by the U.S. Department of State, there could be areas within that country where travelers should exercise increased levels of caution or, where travel is not recommended at all. Read on for more specifics. 

Most Dangerous Places to Travel in South America

Venezuela  is not recommended as it usually tops the list of most dangerous places to travel in South America. The U.S. Department of State details why. From shortages of food, electricity, water, medical supplies, and medicine to homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking among other safety concerns, if safety is a high priority then Venezuela won’t be on your itinerary. 

Other areas to avoid include  the border between Colombia and Peru  in the Loreto region; several departments in both Colombia and Peru; the favelas or unregulated housing areas of Brazil; any areas within 100 miles of Brazil’s borders (not applicable to the Iguacu or Pantanal National Parks); and certain areas of Ecuador. 

If you’re headed to these areas regardless, the State Department does offer suggestions including information specific to traveling in high-risk areas and other advice such as not traveling between Venezuela’s Simon Bolivar International Airport and Caracas at night and not taking unregulated taxis from the airport.

At this point, you might be thinking that a guided tour is the best way to go. Stride has you covered with hundreds of trips to the region! 

Taking Guided Tours in South America 

South America  boasts such a singularity in landscapes, gastronomy, and culture that more and more travelers from Boomers or Millenials are making their way there.

For the savvy traveler, even  Colombia , which has earned itself an especially bad wrap for its drug trafficking and violence, is falling off the list of countries to avoid. With twelve countries to choose from in one of the largest continents in the world,  a guided tour is sure to show you the highlights along with some hidden gems.  

Guided tours manage logistics to the worlds’ longest, driest and highest including  Angel Falls in Venezuela ; the  Atacama Desert in Chile ; the  Amazon river basin  in Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, and the  Andes Mountains   that soar through seven different countries.

A guide will ensure you take the best route with the right gear as you traverse the Andes to the Incan city of  Machu Picchu in Peru . A naturalist can tell you about the marine species in  Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands  that are found nowhere else on Earth.

And how can you beat the comfort of a  small river cruise suite  as you take in the Amazon river basin? Did you see the monkey sleeping in the tree branches from your canoe? You might have missed it if it weren’t for the expert guiding you on your Amazon canoe excursion.  

See all guided tours to South America

Tips for Booking Accommodations 

South America is said to have some of the world’s most unique and luxurious properties that include eco (sustainable and budget), bungalows, farms, and of course, resorts.

If you’re headed to  Brazil , there are hundreds of Airbnbs whether you’re looking for an apartment in Rio, a modern property set above a private beach or anything in between. Expect plenty of options for $50 (and well below) per night, depending on when you book.

There are other Airbnb options in South America where, in Argentina for example, you’ll have plenty of Buenos Aires apartments to choose from in trendy neighborhoods like Palermo. 

If you prefer the services and amenities of an American hotel brand, you’ll find Best Western, Marriott and Hilton properties among others in city centers. And if luxury is more your style, properties like the Four Seasons’ in Bogota, Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo will be sure to pamper and spoil any traveler.

Whether American or a local hotel brand, you’ll find a number of sites on the web that list the top resorts in South America, the best eco-lodges in South America, the best beach resorts in South America, and one of the most popular searches, the best all-inclusive resorts in South America. 

Keep in mind that websites have their own rating systems so while one website may list a property as 4 stars, another might list it as 3 stars. Check each site’s rating system guide so you’ll be able to get a better idea of the hotel and whether it’s up to par with what you’d like to expect while staying there.

For more “people’s choice” awards, traveler’s reviews are generally candid - sometimes too candid - but they can be a good reference for whether other travelers’ expectations were met given the price paid for the services and amenities provided.

Solo Travel Safety in South America

Traveling solo  is a popular travel topic these days as more and more opt for the adventure, but let’s talk safety beyond the aforementioned. 

One aspect of safe travel that bears repeating is to move with confidence. That means knowing where you’re going. This requires some preparation whether via inquiry, consulting guides, GPS or maps, especially if wishing to explore anywhere after dark.

Other things to keep in mind when traveling solo include:

1.   Ask  taxi drivers for fare estimates before you hop in. This is a good practice whether traveling solo or not. 

2.  Explore  areas that are open and frequented by others, locals and tourists alike. Take this precaution especially at night. Avoid off the beaten track destinations unless going with a reputable group and guide. 

3.  Trust  your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it likely isn’t.

4. Accommodations with a desk that is attended to 24 hours a day will ensure that if you arrive late, you will still be able to check-in.

5. Be open to meeting new people but be wary so you can avoid any potential scammers or other unsavory characters.

6. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friend and register with the U.S. Department of State. This is good practice for those not traveling solo as well. 

7. Arrive during the day to get your bearings. It will be less threatening and you’ll also be less likely to find deserted areas, services shut down or an unattended hotel. 

8. Make friends doing things you love to do whether it’s finding a local yoga studio or joining guided group trips for part or all of your stay.

Best Countries in South America for Solo Travel

South America is inhabited by extremely friendly, welcoming and open people which makes it a superb destination for solo travelers.

Beyond considering the safest places to travel discussed above, you’ll find  the countries most often touted for solo travel are those that offer the most diverse range of experiences  whether spotting wildlife that will make your jaw drop, savoring cuisine that will send your taste buds into overdrive or spending the night in accommodations that will leave you wondering whether you could stay for a month.

So, while the countries listed below are often mentioned as top solo travel destinations in South America, they’re for just about anyone.

• Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

For an intimate, shared table dining experience that will give you the opportunity to meet locals while enjoying scrumptious food, check out the  “Puertas Cerradas”  or closed-door restaurants in Argentina. In Chile, they are called  “Cenas Escondidas”  or hidden restaurants. 

Best South American Countries for Female Solo Travel 

Some  additional considerations if you are a female traveling solo  is to tap into your knowledge and experience. Do your research first. This in itself will give you great confidence, no matter your gender.

You might consider exploring unknown areas of your home city, state or country to gain experience and thus confidence before booking your trip to South America. Use your intuition and don’t be paralyzed by the often misguided zeitgeist when it comes to the female traveler who is at peril when she decides to travel alone. You go, girl! 

Check with your insurance company to make sure you are insured for travel abroad and you may wish to inquire about medical evacuation which can be extremely costly. And in general, Medicaid and Medicare do not offer medical costs whilst traveling overseas. The US Department of State, Travel.Sate.Gov, offers additional information. 

If you haven’t heard of Montezuma’s Revenge, AKA traveler’s diarrhea now’s the time to learn about it. It comes from consuming microorganisms present in food or water that your body doesn’t like.

Bolivia is known to use human feces as fertilizer and whether there or in other South American countries, safe food handling and water supply systems may not be up to par. It’s best to follow the “peel it, cook it, boil it or forget it” rule.

Routine vaccinations are recommended along with others; for example, yellow fever depending on your destination. Consult the CDC’s traveler’s health notices by country for the most up to date information.   

Staying Safe While Hiking in South America

Stroll through cities and along the beaches. Trek through rainforests and jungles. Hike across glaciers, deserts, and volcanos. Staying safe depends on where you’re headed.

Weather and trail conditions, altitude, insects, whether it’s a multi-day trip, whether it’s accessible only via an approved tour company and last but not least, your own conditioning. Below are three examples of the different environments you might encounter during your travels.

You’ll get an idea of what you need to consider in order to stay safe.  If headed for the Andes in particular , be sure to research altitude as altitude sickness could put a big damper on your trip and can be downright dangerous. 

1.  Lost City Trek, Colombia  - You might be up for 28 miles over 5 days at altitudes under 5,000 feet but with very little flat terrain, mosquitos buzzing, heat, humidity, and potential downpours, you’ll need to be prepared with the right training, equipment, food, and water. Go with an approved company as it’s the only way you can access La Ciudad Perdida. 

2.  Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil  - Undulating, white, sand dunes sweep across most of the park’s 43 miles on Brazil’s northeastern coast. You can rent quad bikes, ATVs or horses that come with a guide, set out on your own or join a 4x4 tour group.

The environment is harsh so sun protection is a must along with water and a swimsuit to cool off in the crystal clear, rainwater fed lagoons. Winds can be strong especially in October and November and sometimes it’s easier to walk in your socks depending on the type of sand. 

3.  Laguna de Los Tres, Patagonia, Argentina  - This moderately difficult, out and back 13-mile day hike will reward you with magnificent views, the least of which being Mount Fitz Roy, weather permitting.

You’ll gain about 3,000 feet in elevation and speaking of weather, it can change quickly and winds can be strong so be prepared with the right gear. 

Important Things to Know Before You Go

1.  Language

While knowing some Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil) or both depending on where you plan to travel might be helpful, it’s not a requirement by any means. You can still have the trip of a lifetime. 

Currency is different for each South American country although Ecuador uses the US dollar. US currency is the easiest to exchange no matter where you are traveling and avoid large bills wherever possible as you’ll find that some establishments don’t want to return large amounts of change or exchange large bills. 

Call your credit card company and bank to let them know where you’ll be traveling as credit cards are widely accepted (Visa and MasterCard more than American Express) and you don’t want a hold to be placed on your card for suspicious fraud.

ATMs are readily available in large cities; withdraw extra cash if visiting remote areas. You might wish to check your out of network ATM charges as well as exchange rates to make sure you aren’t over-paying. Be especially careful when withdrawing cash from an ATM in Brazil. 

Tipping is not expected by taxi drivers or in bars; restaurants sometimes include a 10% gratuity. Bargaining is an art form in some areas but it is not as common a practice in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay. 

3.  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  

Visit Travel.State.Gov to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so that you can be informed of safety and security alerts for the destinations you are traveling to. 

4.  Visas and Other Documents

Travel.State.Gov can also inform you of visas and documents required depending on your length of stay. Most countries allow tourist stays between 30-180 days. 

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Colombia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 2, 2024, colombia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to the country summary.

Reconsider travel due to  crime  and  terrorism . Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.  

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.

U.S. direct-hire government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• They are not permitted to travel by road between most cities.
• Colombia’s land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized.
• They may not use motorcycles.
• They may not hail street taxis or use public buses.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Colombia.

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Avoid protest areas and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Colombia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in some parts.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.

Colombia - Venezuela Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela.

The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally.

U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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15 South America Tips for Safe and Exciting Travel with Kids

South America is a fantastic continent to explore with kids- from vast mountain ranges to jungles and amazing rivers, this content has it all. After five months of traveling through South America with our kids, here are our best South America tips to help you make the most of your travels. From family-style rooms to tips to keep safe, here’s everything you need to know before starting your journey through South America.

We visited South America as part of our Family Year Out when our kids were 4 and 7. (Need help planning a Family Year Out ?).

We visited Columbia , Peru , Argentina, and Brazil , including visiting two of the “New Wonders of the World” (hello Family Bucket List !), and learned a lot of essential family travel tips along the way.

You can see all our posts about South America in one place.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase.   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. All our recommendations are our own and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of this post, d ownload a free guide: 6 Safety Tips for Traveling with Kids: What You Should Know Before You Travel .

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Is it Safe to Travel in South America with Kids?

Yes, South America is safe to travel with kids, as long as you take normal precautions. We spent five months traveling South America with our kids, from Columbia to Brazil, and never felt unsafe, or had any scary encounters. Of course, we tend to tuck the kids into bed by 8 pm and are not out wandering the street at bizarre hours.

Practice street smarts as you would in any large city, trust your gut instincts, and you should be fine. Most crime against tourists is minor- such as pickpocketing your wallet or stealing your phone.

We wrote a full guide with all of our best safety tips and the strategies we use to keep our kids safe around the world.

Keep in mind that the seasons in South America are reversed- so summer in North America is winter in South America. Don’t count out a visit during this time! There are lots of fun activities in winter, here are a few of our favorites in Argentina in winter .

Tips for Making the Most of Your Family Trip to South America

1. work on your spanish.

South America is a great place for adults and kids to work on their Spanish skills. Our kids take turns asking for the restaurant bill in Spanish and have gotten more confident communicating and playing with other kids who don’t speak English.

Before we traveled to any Spanish-speaking countries, learning Spanish seemed like an abstraction, and the kids weren’t very interested. Once we started traveling through South America, they realized how important it is to their daily interactions, and have been soaking it up ever since.

A few kind words in Spanish, however bad your accent is, will do a lot to garner goodwill from those around you. Locals especially love when they hear kids making an effort to communicate in Spanish. A few phrases go a long way!

2. Family Rooms are Common

Unlike in the US, queen-sized beds are hard to find in most of South America. What you will find, are family rooms with multiple beds.

We’ve often been able to get hotel rooms with one double bed and two (or three) twin beds so the kids can each have their own bed. This has been great for the kids, if not so great for Waker’s 6 foot+ frame!

Take advantage of the plentiful family rooms, and be prepared for hard mattresses! The concept of a soft, flexible mattress seems to have eluded much of South America.

3. Order “Para Compartir”

In many parts of South America, if you order something to share or “para compartir”, they will split it for you in the kitchen at no extra charge. This works really well for things like large lemonades that the kids are sharing.

Take advantage of this and have the kitchen split anything the kids are sharing. We also found that unlike American restaurants that often have “plate charges”, no one seems to care if you order 2 or 3 dishes to share among 4 people. Don’t feel pressured to order more food than you need.

4. Families Get Preferred Treatment

At airports in South America, you’ll often see a “Preferred” line which is usually shorter than the regular line. This line is reserved for the elderly, disabled, pregnant, and any family with kids. In some places, they specify that it applies to kids under 8 years of age.

We’ve also been rushed to the front of the line in restaurants, as people just don’t expect families with kids to wait in line. Enjoy this perk of being a family in South America!

Read Next: The Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List: 100+ Adventures Around the World

5. Kids May Get Extra Attention

If your kids are pale or have light-colored hair they may get a lot of extra attention in South America, from people touching their hair to wanting a picture with them.

This occasionally translates into them getting odd gifts as well. We’ve had several older women fawn over how they look “like dolls”. Overall, everyone is friendly and means well, and the kids don’t seem to mind.

One of our favorite destinations in South America is Cartagena, Colombia – there’s so much energy and art all around the Old Town and Getsemani, plus there are many family-friendly day trips from Cartagena , including the amazing Rosario Islands .

6. Learn About Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness can get serious, quickly. When visiting South American countries with high altitudes, be sure to know the signs of Altitude Sickness, and plan time to acclimate at a lower elevation.

This is particularly common when arriving in Cusco to climb Machu Picchu, but can apply in the mountains of Chile and other South American countries as well. The first signs of minor altitude sickness are shortness of breath and fatigue. Plan time to rest and adjust to your altitude.

For minor cases of Altitude Sickness, rest and hydration can be all that is needed, for more serious cases, you’ll need to get quickly to a lower elevation.

7. Pack Sun Protection

Whether you prefer a sun hat or a baseball hat, we found the sun in many parts of South America stronger than our pale skin could handle, even with sunscreen. Hats keep the sun off of your face and save your skin.

Even on cloudy days, it’s easy to get too much sun in South America, where the sun is intense and can burn you easily.

It’s not just your imagination- because of the hole in the ozone, UV exposure in the Southern Hemisphere is greater than in the North. You need to more actively protect yourself.

8. Watch a Soccer Game

Soccer (futbol) is extremely popular in South America, and it’s a lot of fun for the whole family to soak up the excitement and team spirit. Watching a World Cup qualifying game was one of our favorite things to do in Lima , Peru- the crowd was so loud and passionate, the kids will never forget it!

We weren’t in the actual stadium- but at a local outdoor food court with a huge screen. The crowds were wild, with team gear and air horns going through the game. The kids loved being somewhere they could be as loud as they wanted!

Be aware that the crowds can get out of control- at that particular game, the partying continued on the streets of Lima until after 3 am, and police in riot gear eventually had to clear the streets. Be smart, and be aware as you exit the crowds.

9. Pack for Three Seasons

Whether in Medellin , Columbia or Ollantaytambo, Peru the weather in South America can change quickly, and dramatically. Be prepared for cool evenings in higher locations, and sudden rainstorms in others.

Be sure to carry rain jackets, and light sweaters even in tropical climates.

Because you will be largely in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are reversed from the Northern Hemisphere. So when the United States is entering Summer, much of South America is entering winter. June is Fall in South America, so plan your travel accordingly.

10. Try Lots of Exotic Fruit

One of the best things about South America is all the fruits we had never heard of! From lulo and mamey in Colombia to lucuma in Peru, there are many new fruit flavors to try across South America!

An exotic fruit tour was one of our favorite things to do in Medellin , we also found that an afternoon ice cream break was often a great opportunity to try a new flavor.

Read Next: Things to Do in Medellín with Kids- A Guide to the Best Activities for Families

11. Agree on Prices Beforehand

Ok, so this one seems straightforward for most seasoned travelers, but when you are traveling with kids- sometimes you forget.

My kids still tease me about the time I bought them a virgin pina colada on the street without first asking the price.

Of course, once I passed the giant pineapple-housed concoction to the kids, the price immediately shot up to something absolutely ridiculous. But I was stuck, I hadn’t asked ahead of time!

Whatever you are considering buying, ask the price before you agree to buy it and before the kids loudly exclaim how badly they want it!

12. Distances are Huge and Planes are Inexpensive

We were surprised by how many times it made more sense to fly domestically in South America rather than take the bus. The distances between cities are often surprisingly large, and domestic flights are often inexpensive.

Don’t kill yourself trying to bus your way across this massive continent, take advantage of the inexpensive flights.

13. Use Uber When you Can

Local taxis can be expensive- more so for tourists as you’ll rarely see a working taxi meter. When you can, opt for Uber or other ride-hailing apps such as Cabify. They take the “foreign tax” out of the price, and also eliminates the need to communicate your location directly to your driver.

As a bonus, these apps allow you to pay with credit cards (hello travel points!) instead of trying to have the ride amount of cash in small bills.

In a few countries, we found that Uber took too long to come. In those cases, the Uber app gave us a fair price to aim for when negotiating a fare to our destination. We expect to pay a bit more for a local taxi, but it’s reassuring to know that we haven’t been massively overcharged.

14. Get a Yellow Fever Vaccine

Of course, talk to your doctor, but the Yellow Fever Vaccine is required for some destinations in South America.

This one-time shot comes with a special yellow form, which is good for your lifetime. Other countries may require you to show this form if they see that you have traveled to a country where you may have been exposed to Yellow Fever.

This vaccine is highly recommended for all of South America with the exception of Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay. Check out the CDC Map for details.

15. Don’t Skip Travel Insurance

Don’t skip travel insurance! From lost baggage to sudden trips to the emergency room, travel insurance is super important.

We like SafetyWing – it renews automatically each month until we turn it off, and covers us no matter where we travel (without us updating them on our travel plans). The only countries excluded are Iran, Cuba, and North Korea.

Check Rates: SafetyWing Travel Insurance

FAQ: South America Travel Tips

You protect yourself the same way you would in any other city- be aware of your surroundings, don’t carry more cash than you need, and don’t flash expensive gear. Keep your belongings in sight and stick to well-lit areas at night. Also, be aware of any political unrest and avoid countries or areas that may be unstable. Protests and strikes are common in South America, and nothing to be worried about, but it’s best to keep your distance. During our time in Cusco we experienced a bus strike that involved tires and debris in the road to stop traffic.

South America is a vast, varied continent- the 4th largest to be exact! It contains everything from the Amazon River to the Andes Mountains and a lot of different cultures and languages. From coffee plantations to alpacas and rainforests and glaciers, there’s a ton to explore in South America.

Depending on the distance you are traveling, there are low-cost flights across much of the continent. You can also travel shorter distances by bus. Many buses are quite comfortable with air conditioning and bathrooms on the bus. There are also luxury overnight buses where the seats lay flat. Other families choose to overland using their own vehicle or RV. You can also opt to rent a car in a particular country, though crossing borders with a rental is complicated (and often not allowed). We use DiscoverCars.com and highly recommend them.

Statistically, Uruguay is the safest country in South America, followed by Chile. This is according to the 2021 Global Peace Index.

There You Have It: South America Travel Tips

Our best South America travel tips for exploring this amazing continent with kids! From the beaches of Columbia to the wildlife of Patagonia, there’s more in South America than you can fit into one trip. We hope these essential travel tips will help you enjoy your visit as you travel South America.

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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Solo South America: What Should You Know About Traveling Alone In This Continent

• South America offers stunning natural wonders, balmy temperatures, and plenty of hiking opportunities, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers.
• Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay are among the top countries to visit for solo travel in South America, offering a mix of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and friendly backpacking communities.
• While some countries can be trickier to navigate or require language skills, staying informed, enrolling in travel programs, and connecting with fellow travelers can help ensure a safe and rewarding solo trip in South America.

South America is one of the most fantastic continents in the world, with tons of gorgeous natural wonders , balmy temperatures, and plenty of hiking, especially closer to the South Pole.

This continent is one of the best places to retire and an excellent place to explore independently. Solo travelers can make the most of their South American adventure by considering these top tips. Here's what to know about solo travel in South America.

Solo Travel In South America: Which Countries To Visit (And Which To Avoid)

South America is a continent of extremes, from the dizzying height of the Andes to the balmy Caribbean beaches of Northern Colombia. Understanding where to go is one big piece of the puzzle.

One of the largest countries on the continent, Argentina is famous for its epic hiking, wine, and gorgeous cities. Top destinations include Iguazu Falls, Patagonia, and the Perito Moreno Glacier. It's also very safe, and the big cities offer a great backpacking community, so one can feel comfortable solo traveling there.

• Solo Travel: Enthusiastic yes

Patagonia is a great bucket list destination full of stunning nature, unique animal life, and some of the best hiking in the world. Be prepared for changing temperatures, challenging hikes, and the most Instagrammable landscapes on the planet.

This landlocked country has much to offer, including access to the Amazon, salt flats, and beautiful towns right on Lake Titicaca. Don't miss the Salar de Uyuni, the gorgeous heights of La Paz, or the great hiking near Lake Titicaca, especially the Isla del Sol.

Although there's plenty to see, public transportation can be tricky to navigate and one needs Spanish to get around most places.

• Solo Travel: Possibly if one speaks Spanish and doesn't mind navigating transportation concerns alone

The giant country of Brazil has plenty of things to do, especially if one is looking for a party. The fantastic capital of Rio de Janiero is a must-visit if one wants a big-city vibe, and Iguacu Falls and Copacabana are great places, too. Plus, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a remote vacation in Brazil .

• Solo Travel: Yes if one is looking for a fun party, although one will want a little Portuguese to get around

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most spectacular places on the planet, covering a vast 2,300,000 square miles . Visitors can kayak in the Amazon, enjoy outstanding hiking, and see animals one might never spot anywhere else.

Chile's skinny and scenic country stretches all the way toward Antarctica but also encompasses plenty of other climates. Hugging Argentina, it's a bounty of natural wonders. Santiago, Rapa Nui, and The Colchagua Valley are some hot spots to visit. Santiago is a great place to interact with the local backpacking community.

• Solo Travel: Yes, but be careful hiking solo in the mountains as the landscape can get tricky

Related Link: Top 10 Things To Do In Chile's Lake District

Colombia is an excellent place to enjoy some great coffee, bask on the beaches, and enjoy lovely cities with great climates like Medellin.

Top spots include the stunning Tayrona National Park , Cartagena, and Eje Cafetero. There are tons of friendly hostels in Bogota and Medellin and solo travelers will likely find a backpacking community where they can tag along.

• Solo Travel: Yes, this is one of the top places to meet fellow travelers on the continent

Ecuador is the gateway to the Galápagos, and it's a great place to visit if one is looking for a more tropical vibe. See the unique animals of the Galápagos, or visit Quito, a thriving city. There's also the Cotopaxi National Park if one is looking for some excellent hiking.

• Solo Travel: Yes and no: the cities are great for solo traveling, but the major draws, like the Galápagos, are expensive to do alone

Guyana is a smaller country near Colombia with access to the balmy Atlantic Ocean. There's plenty to explore, including the Kanuku Mountains and the Iwokrama Forest. Georgetown, the capital city, is charming, with excellent hospitality and good food.

• Solo Travel: Experienced solo backpackers will have fun, but it's less developed and tricker to get around especially if one doesn't speak Spanish

Beautiful Paraguay is near Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina, with some of the best architecture and history on the continent. The City of Asuncion is one of the top places to visit, and Cerro Corra National Park will give one a good feel for the natural wonders of this country. There are also plenty of ruins to explore.

• Solo Travel: Yes, Paraguay's cities are very safe, especially for female-identifying travelers

Notable for Machu Picchu but also full of great small towns and tons of hiking , Peru is a rich and beautiful country in the Andes. Hikers will want to check out the Sacred Valley and the historic towns of Cuzco and Arequipa. Go a bit further south and enjoy Lake Titicaca, one of the most famous lakes in the world.

• Solo Travel: Absolutely great for solo travel, especially because one can take bus trips around the country and the cities are full of vibrant hostels

The smallest country in South America, Suriname has a big personality and many things to explore. If one is looking for unspoiled nature, this is the spot to go with the Galibi Nature Reserve, Central Suriname Nature Reserve, and Brownsberg Nature Park.

• Solo Travel: Possibly-- as long as one doesn't mind doing things along and can navigate through nature as Suriname is less developed than other countries with a smaller backpacker community

Staying in hostels throughout South America is a great way to save money, meet other people, and learn about hidden gems and cool new places to visit. They're also an excellent place to book group excursions.

This southeastern country sits near Brazil and Argentina, full of lovely historic cities and towns like Cabo Polonio and Colonia Del Sacramento. Uruguay is an excellent bet if one is looking for something a bit off the beaten path.

• Solo Travel: Yes, Uruguay is a safe country and the cities are full of backpackers, hostels, and things to do

Venezuela encompasses the Amazon Rainforest, the stunning Angel Falls, and parts of the Andes. Caracas, the capital, is a lovely city with plenty of history.

• Solo Travel: Generally yes, but at the moment, no because Venezuela is experiencing political insecurity at the moment

Venezuela is very unstable, and the U.S. State Department strongly advises against going there .

Top Safety Advice For Solo Travel In South America

One of the best ways one can protect oneself is by signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which gives travelers updates on any political or dangerous situations that might be happening in the country.

Enrolling in STEP is especially important for solo travelers because one can let the embassy know where you are staying.

While keeping an eye on whether the water is potable is a good idea no matter what, it's especially important if one is hiking or camping alone because getting sick solo could be dangerous.

Colombians have a phrase, "No Dar Papaya," which means not to put oneself in danger. Keeping vigilant about what's happening is the best way to stay safe in South America.

Related Link: 10 Most Beautiful National Parks In Brazil That Should Be On Your Travel Radar

Make The Most Of A Solo Trip Through South America

These tips will help one have the best vacation possible.

• Check which places travelers need a visa before going
• See the best of the country of choice by bus and meet fellow travelers at the same time
• Stay in cities if one wants to meet a community and learn more about the "backpacker trail"
• Join online communities to interact with other travelers on the same path
• Do research ahead of time and enroll in STEP
• Learn a few key Spanish or Portuguese phrases to get by to connect with the local community

Solo travel in South America can be exciting, enriching, and safe, if travelers know what to expect and how to prepare.

When is the 2024 total solar eclipse? Your guide to glasses, forecast, where to watch.

Editor's note: An updated cloud forecast for the April 2024 total solar eclipse is in. Read the latest eclipse forecast and news as of Wednesday, April 3 .

We're less than two weeks away from the astronomical event of the decade: A total eclipse of the sun , which will grace the nation's skies from Texas to Maine on the afternoon of Monday, April 8 .

Millions of people are expected to travel to see the spectacle, which will also attract scientists from across the country to study its unique effects on the Earth and its atmosphere . (Meanwhile, brands such as Burger King, Pizza Hut, Applebee's and Sonic are getting in on the eclipse excitement too.)

The full total solar eclipse experience will plunge people along a narrow path into darkness midday, but people outside the path of totality could still use eclipse glasses to see the moon pass in front of the sun. It's an awesome and confusing sight on the ground and in the sky.

It should go without saying: Don't drive while wearing eclipse glasses

One task to do now is to get yourself a pair of special eclipse glasses (and luckily there's still time to score a free pair of eclipse glasses ). They're important eyewear during an eclipse because they will block out the sun's harmful rays, which could damage your eyes when you're looking at the sun — even if it's partially blocked.

Solar eclipse glasses are still readily available from plenty of vendors across the internet as of Thursday, March 28. But be wary of counterfeit or fake glasses , experts warned.

The other big factor everyone's anxiously awaiting is the weather forecast, which most experts say is still a bit far away for a specific forecast. But more detailed, realistic forecasts will start to roll in over the next few days.

Of particular interest will be the cloud forecast , as a deck of thick, low clouds would likely ruin the entire event. But if the clouds are higher up in the atmosphere, such as thin, wispy cirrus , they'd act to diffuse but not ruin the eclipse.

USA TODAY 10Best: 10 solar eclipse fun facts to share with your friends

There's plenty to know before the big day, which won't happen again for about two decades . Read on for answers for all your eclipse questions, including how to watch the eclipse , understand the eclipse and use eclipse glasses to stay safe .

WATCHING THE APRIL 2024 ECLIPSE

How do i watch the 2024 solar eclipse.

There are a few ways of watching the eclipse:

• Get the full experience in person : If you're in a narrow band of U.S. land that spans from Texas to Maine, you could see the moon block the sun and its shadow cast a night-like darkness over Earth for a few minutes. You'll briefly be able to look up without eye protection and see the moon block the sun.
• Watch from outside the path of totality : Much of the U.S. is set to get a partial view of the eclipse that isn't nearly as impressive as being in the path of totality. Earth won't be plunged into complete darkness and you'll have to wear protective eyewear to see the moon partially block the sun.
• Watch a livestream : Check back on April 8 for a video feed from the path of totality. It's not the same as being there in person, but hey, at least you won't have to sit in traffic .

Totality explained: The real April 2024 total solar eclipse happens inside the path of totality

What time is the solar eclipse on April 8?

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.

You can search by zip code to find the exact time for your location.

Where will the April eclipse be visible?

All of the lower 48 U.S. states will see the moon at least clip the sun, but that sight is a trifle compared to being in the path of totality.

Because the narrow path includes or is near some of the nation's largest cities, expect millions of people to crowd into a band of land a little over 100 miles wide that spans from the Texas/Mexico border to the Maine/Canada border.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Will clouds block the April 2024 eclipse?

It's too soon to say for sure, but history offers some clues.

Chances of cloudy skies are pretty high along much of the eclipse's northern path, and some areas such as Buffalo have about a 1-in-3 chance of clear skies in early April.

Skies are usually more clear to the south. Right along the Texas/Mexico border, chances of a clear sky can be nearly 75%.

However, early forecasts tell a different story — although forecaster caution it's too early for truly accurate forecasts.

Keep in mind that clouds don't always ruin an eclipse . High, wispy clouds won't spoil the show in the same way that low thick clouds would. In that case, you wouldn't be able to see the moon pass in front of the sun, but you would still notice a sudden darkness in the path of totality.

What dangers are associated with the eclipse?

The  eclipse , as exciting and fun as it promises to be, comes with a growing number of safety warnings — both for what will happen in the sky and what will happen on the ground.

In addition to the dangers of looking at the eclipse without proper eyewear, we've heard warnings about potentially dangerous  fake eclipse glasses , the possibility for increased  car  c rashes  around the time of the eclipse — and possible  air travel headaches  due to delayed or cancelled flights.

Where is the best place to watch the eclipse?

In the weeks leading up to the eclipse, Texas was considered the best state for eclipse viewing . Historically, there's a good chance the skies will be clear and its location along the southern path of the eclipse means totality will last a little longer. That could change as the forecast evolves .

A few lucky travelers will also have a front-row seat with unobstructed views — from a plane .

Will traffic be bad?

Most likely, yes — especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then many will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours. Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the study said .

Also worth noting: The eclipse is expected to have impacts for air travel as well.

Cities across the eclipse's path of totality are also bracing for an influx of visitors who are already booking up hotels and short-term vacation rentals , officials have told USA TODAY. "Hotels are almost sold out," said Shalissa Perry, the chief marketing officer for Downtown Dallas.

Why are schools closing for the eclipse?

Primarily out of a concern for students' safety, schools across the country have given students  the day of the eclipse, April 8,  as a day off, a half day or a chance for e-learning. In Tennessee, for example, officials also say it gives students a chance  to experience the eclipse with their family and friends .

What's it like to watch a solar eclipse from space?

Ever wondered what it is like see the  solar eclipse  from space? NASA scientist and veteran astronaut Terry Virts has witnessed the spectacle in space .

"When I was in space in 2015, we saw an eclipse over the North Atlantic," Virts told USA TODAY this week. "It was an eclipse that very few humans saw I think, but it was a really unique experience to look down and just see this big black circle kind of moving across the planet."

"It was unlike anything I've ever seen," Virts adds. "I joke I'm glad they told us there was an eclipse because it would have been unsettling to look down at Earth and see this black spot moving across. It was really cool."

Virts, who is the face of  Sonic's eclipse-themed Blackout Slush Float , said that though he's seen one eclipse from space and many from Earth, he is super excited about the upcoming one on April 8.

UNDERSTANDING THE 2024 ECLIPSE

What is a solar eclipse definition explained..

A total solar eclipse happens when three celestial spheres — the sun, moon and Earth — line up in a specific way in space.

According to NASA, a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. That alignment casts a moving shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun's light in some areas. This leads to a period of partial or full darkness on a narrow stretch of Earth. 

The path is so narrow because of the huge distance and size of the sun — as well as the moon's distance from Earth. That focuses the moon's shadow on an area of land much smaller than the moon itself. The movement of the shadow across the land happens as the Earth's rotation interacts with the orbit of the moon.

A total eclipse only happens occasionally because the moon doesn't orbit in the exact same plane as the sun and Earth do. In addition, a solar eclipse can only happen during a new moon.

What's special about a total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse on April 8  is causing such a stir because the rare event is an astronomical experience like no other that will be unusually accessible to millions of people.

April's total solar eclipse will fall over more places in the U.S. than the total eclipse before and after it. And the broad length of the path of totality – where Americans have the best shot of getting a clear view – is "much wider"  than it was for the eclipse in 2017 , according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

A total solar eclipse is also far more impressive  than a lunar or an annular solar eclipse. During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the Sun but leaves an outside ring some call a "ring of fire" — it darkens the sky instead of plunging Earth into a night-like darkness, which is what happens during a total solar eclipse. And a lunar eclipse – the appearance of a red moon – happens when the moon passes into the Earth's shadow, according to NASA.

Total solar eclipses can have spiritual significance, too . Ancient cultures viewed as a sign of the gods' anger or impending departure. Some religions today are hosting eclipse viewings and services.

Historically, eclipses have left major marks on religious and spiritual civilizations. In Christianity, an eclipse has been associated with the darkness that accompanied Jesus' crucifixion and in Islam, the passing of the Prophet Muhammad's son Ibrahim.

When was the last solar eclipse?

The USA's most recent total solar eclipse was on August 21, 2017, and stretched from Oregon to South Carolina.

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

The  next visible total solar eclipse  to cross over the U.S. after April will come in more than two decades on Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

And that eclipse won't be as accessible as the 2024 one: The path of totality in 2044 will only touch the states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. Another total eclipse  will pass over the U.S. in 2045  that will be more accessible to Americans, including for people who live in California, Florida and Nevada.

ECLIPSE GLASSES AND SAFETY

What are eclipse glasses and why are they needed for the eclipse.

Gazing at the bright rays from the eclipse without  protective eyewear  can seriously damage your eye, so wearing a pair of protective glasses is important.

There's a technical standard for eclipse glasses, which are designed to block out most light and let you safely see the moon pass in front of the sun: It's called ISO 12312-2 after the International Organization of Standardization.

While there's concerns that not all glasses marketed as eclipse glasses live up to that standard, experts say in the past, the shortcomings haven't been significant .

But as the 2024 eclipse approaches, the American Astronomical Society  has warned that there are some counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses being sold from unverified vendors that would be unsafe to use during the eclipse. They recommend buying from a vetted vendor and testing the glasses before the eclipse.

How do I get solar eclipse glasses?

You should buy from a reputable source who can ship the glasses to you in time for April 8. A guide to last-minute eclipse glasses explains more.

Heads up: The online marketplace is flooded with retailers selling solar eclipse glasses they claim have the NASA seal of approval . Consider that a red flag to look elsewhere.

How can you test eclipse glasses?

NASA shared an easy method to check eclipse glasses at home.

Buyers should put on their glasses and look at a bright light, like a flashlight. If the light is "extremely dim," or doesn't appear at all, the glasses are safe, Susannah Darling, of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in an instructional video. Viewers should be able to see the filament of the lightbulb, not the glow surrounding the bulb.

Can you really go blind watching a solar eclipse?

You could severely damage your eyes . Directly staring at the sun before and after the total eclipse, or watching a partial eclipse outside the path of totality without proper eye protection, can result in permanent damage including blurred and altered vision.

While rare, eye damage from watching a partial eclipse happens in part because a person's natural response to squint when looking at sunlight does not get triggered. In the lead-up to the  April 8 solar eclipse ,  doctors and a rare set of eclipse watchers are warning about  watching this planetary event without adequate eclipse glasses or with the naked eye.

It’s hard for experts to know or even estimate how many people experience eye damage from solar eclipses. Since looking at an eclipse does not cause complete blindness, people with permanent damage may not know they have it or report it to a doctor. The 2017 eclipse , which passed from Oregon to South Carolina, is thought to have caused about 100 cases, according to the  American Astronomical Society .

How can I watch the eclipse without glasses?

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses do not use regular sunglasses — You need a more creative solution for safe viewing, like a pinhole projector .

Welding glasses are not recommended for eclipse viewing .

Should I take dogs or cats to see the eclipse? Is it safe for pets?

An eclipse itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets .

Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and anxious people gather, said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” she said.

Another fun way to experience the eclipse: disco balls

Don't just reach for the solar glasses; a disco ball might be a fun and safe way to enhance the total solar eclipse experience .

Inspired by a research paper from European scientists, the Round Rock Public Library in Round Rock, Texas, near Austin, used disco balls during the annular eclipse in October and recommends people do the same for the April 8 eclipse. Officials said the use of a disco ball creates a "party-like atmosphere" to make a solar eclipse event more fun.

The mirrored ball can be placed outside where it can catch the sunlight and reflect it on a shaded wall at least several feet away, or it can be inside near a window to cast reflections of the sun around the room. Youth Services Librarian Andrea Warkentin recommends people get disco balls that have smaller mirrors on them as they will create bigger and better images.

"It's a way to make it really memorable and fun for little kids who may not really understand what's going on in the sky," Warkentin said.

-Fernanda Figueroa, Austin American-Statesman

Contributing: Ramon Padilla, Karina Zaiets and Janet Loehrke

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

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Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital