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

4 /5

Based on 8 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is South America?

Safety at night:Unsafe

South Americalike many destinations, varies greatly in safety from area to area. Urban locations and tourist hotspots are generally safer due to increased policing and surveillance, but remote regions can have less security. Nighttime can heighten safety risks, especially when walking alone, due to limited visibility and fewer people around. It is advisable to stay in well-populated, public areas, avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, and always use reputable transportation services instead of walking.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in South America varies greatly by country and even by city. In well-populated regions, it's generally fairly safe, with metro systems and bus services frequently used by locals and tourists alike. However, theft can occur, especially in crowded conditions where pickpocketing is a hazard. Night bus travel could potentially be riskier due to potential robberies. Always maintain vigilance and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Street harassment:High

While experiences may vary, street harassment can occasionally be an issue for solo female travelers in South America. It is usually manifested in the form of cat-calling or persistent attention. This doesn’t mean it's a dangerous place to travel, and many women have fantastic times in this vibrant continent. However, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings and trust your gut instincts.

Petty crimes:High

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and opportunistic theft, especially in major urban areas and places frequented by tourists, are prevalent in parts of South America. Additionally, scams, taxi fraud, and credit card cloning are not uncommon. It's always important to stay aware of your belongings, not to display luxury items, and avoid unnecessary attention. However, experiences may be different in each country and even each city or region in South America.

Is South America worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 8 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4/5

Food

4.7/5

Budget-friendly

4/5

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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Meet locals in South America

Ana

About Me

Hi, I’m Ana, a 27-year old Brazilian girl who has her heart open to what life has to offer. I’m a Sagittarius moon and sun, so you would expect me to have wheels on my feet, but I’m also a Scorpio rising, which gives me the interest to get to know people deeply. (Yes, I love astrology and would love to read you your birth chart for fun.) I’m interested in getting to know people from around the world, so hit me up if you are in São Paulo, but I’m also going to Europe in July and would love to meet up or even stay with you for a few days ☺️ I’ve done couchsurfing before and always had a wonderful experience, so I hope you feel comfortable to stay with me too!

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Ana

About Me

Hi, I'm Ana! I'm a 19 years old girl from Brazil who likes to travel and get to know new cultures and places. I'm very open to learning and talking about everything. I'm a bit shy, so I prefer to listen at first, but as I get comfortable, I can talk non-stop.

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Stay with locals in South America

Ana

São Paulo

Can host for:

3 days

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Upcoming visitors to South America

Easton

About Me

Hi! My name is Easton. I’m 35 years old and I’m a NYC native. Avid traveler and foodie. I love fitness, sports, fashion and travel. I work in the television industry.

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Safety in South America

Argentina

Peru

Colombia

Brazil

Ecuador

Bolivia

Chile

Uruguay

Paraguay

Venezuela

Suriname

Guyana

Check the safest countries in South America