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

Naty

About Me

I love meeting new people and I'm looking to help girls who need tips or are staying here in the city! It's a little dangerous for outsiders here, but it's beautiful and a lot of fun! I'm an actress in training and I love art as a whole, it's full of it here! I don't speak English fluently, but I'm willing to make new friends even with this obstacle ;)

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Gabriela

About Me

I'm an environmental engeneering student in São Paulo, Brazil. I'm passionate about meeting new people, exploring new places and cultures. Mostly, I'm down for everything, I crave a lot of novelty haha. I love museums, historic sites, partying and hiking.

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Stay with locals in South America

Naty

São Paulo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

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Martu

Buenos Aires

Can host for:

5 days

About me

Hey! My name is Martina Guadalupe Ferrara. I'm 26 years old and I'm Libra with moon and ascent in Leo. I used to study Tourism at the University and I have a aeronautical license as a flight attendant but never worked in the industry. I am also a volunteer in the Red Cross since I study first aids and RCP. I have a nice and shy cat. His name is "Mushu" like the dragon in Mulan. I also have a dog called "Hipolito" but he lives with my parents 4km away. I live alone since I was 20 and work since I was 15, not for necessity, only for choice. I love being outside and in the nature. While I am in vacation, I love trekking, try new foods and get in touch with coultures.

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Upcoming visitors to South America

@Virguit

About Me

Embodying a free-spirited sense of adventure, I am a travel lady always eager for new experiences and authentic connections. I thrive on engaging with new cultures, cherishing every opportunity to share in their traditions and stories. Deeply friendly and spiritually attuned, my passion for the ocean mirrors my inner love for nature’s endless beauty. I lead a lifestyle free from smoking, enjoy drinking only socially, and honor my Inca beliefs through mindful, respectful living. Every journey is a new chapter of discovery, growth, and heartfelt connection. 🏳️‍🌈 #Journalist #TravelGirl #OceanLover #TattooGirl #MotorBikeGirl #Activist #FreeSpirit @ᏉᎥᏒᎶuᎥᏆ

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Franziska

About Me

hiiiii:D i really wanna go to south america or literally anywhere crazy! unfortunately all of my friends are occupied :\ . in fall 24 I tried solo travelling, but it is really not my style. Therefore hope to find the right person here to go on these traveles with me ! :D

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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