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

Andrea

Andrea

Bogotá

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Travel isn’t just a passion for me — it’s my lifestyle. I love connecting with people, learning from cultures, sharing stories and music, and exploring unique places. I can host, join trips, or find travel buddies abroad. 🌈 Life’s too short not to wander!

Speaking

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@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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Expats in South America

Canela

Canela

Santiago

About me

Hi! I'm Cane, a Chilean girl who loves traveling and meeting new people. If anyone is in need of host I'm happy to host you here in Santiago, Chile! I'd like to do plans like photo trips, trekkings, backpacking, kitesurfing, skiing, anything in nature. But if you'd like something more in the city I'm happy to guide you too!

Speaking

Maíra

Maíra

Porto Alegre

About me

Hi! I’m Maíra, 31, from Porto Alegre, Brazil. I’m traveling solo and looking to enjoy new experiences. I’ll be in Barcelona from December 22nd to 30th, then heading to Paris before flying back home on January 1st. It’s my first long-distance trip, and I’d love to meet new people and explore new places during this time. If you’re around, it would be amazing to have some company to make the journey even more special! I’m still looking for a place to stay in Barcelona, so if you have any good recommendations (or know someone open to sharing a stay), feel free to let me know!

Speaking