Is South America safe for solo female travelers?

Traveling through South America can have varying levels of safety, largely dependent on the specific countries and locations you visit. Urban areas and popular tourist destinations are generally well-policed and safe, though it is still wise to exercise caution, particularly at night. Petty crime and pickpocketing can be common in crowded spaces. In more rural or remote regions, safety conditions can be less predictable and may require extra vigilance. As always, reaching out to local tourist information, staying in touch with your country’s embassy or consulate, and exercising general safety precautions all contribute to maintaining your wellbeing while traveling.

Safety rating

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How safe is South America for solo female travelers?

Travel safety index

4 /5

based on 8 experiences from female travelers

Solo travel

I went alone to Colombia (Bogota, Medellin), Ecuador (Quito, Banos, Cuenca), Peru (Trujillo, Lima, Cusco, Puno, Arequipa), Chile (Iquique, Santiago, Punto Arenas), and Argentina (Ushuaia, Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Mendoza). I booked several flights, but I primarily traveled from place to place by bus. South American long-haul buses are generally very affordable and surprisingly comfortable. In terms of safety, not only did I never have a terrifying experience, but I also had a few amazing experiences when complete strangers, with whom I barely shared a language, were incredibly kind.

Posted: June 19, 2023
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Safety in South America

Hospitality Exchange in South America

@Virguit

@Virguit

Lima

Can host for:

7 days

About me

I’m the kind of girl who smells like saltwater, drives like the wind, and dreams in colors no one has named yet. 🌈✨Practice Inca believe represented by the Inca flag 🏳️‍🌈 🌊 By day, you’ll find me chasing waves or riding my motorbike toward the sunset — wind in my hair, freedom stitched into my soul. ✌️ Some friends call me a hippie — barefoot at heart, always chasing good vibes, starry skies, and spontaneous adventures. 💻 And yes, I’m a digital nomad — working from beaches, cafés, mountaintops, or wherever the Wi-Fi (and my heart) takes me. 💼 But don’t be fooled: behind this sun-kissed smile is a sharp, strategic mind that knows how to close deals, lead meetings, and run a business like a boss. I’m incense and spreadsheets, barefoot and heels, meditation and negotiation. Under the suits? My tattoo tuxedo — a little inked reminder of the wild heart beneath the polished surface. 😉 A walking contradiction? Maybe. A balance of chaos and clarity? Definitely. A woman who lives fully, works fiercely, and wanders boldly? Always. I don’t fit into a box — I paint it, Ride over it, And turn it into art. 🎨

Speaking

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Isabella

Isabella

Antofagasta

Can host for:

3 days

About me

29, lawyer, single, and always looking for new things to do !! I love simplicity, nature, the beach and sharing stories and experiences

Speaking

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