worst countries to visit in south america

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7 Most Dangerous Countries in South America According to 2024 Peace Index

The political and economic situations of a country influence its peacefulness. Countries with political stability tend to attract more tourists and foreign investments. We listed the most dangerous countries in South America and some documentaries that you can watch to understand better the situation.

The Global Peace Index measures the peacefulness of different nations and regions. It is released annually and ranks 172 independent countries.

RELATED: GPI Reveals World’s 7 Most Dangerous Countries In 2023

List of the 7 Most Dangerous Countries in South America (2023 Peace Index)

7. bolivia – 2.001, 6. ecuador – 2.095, 5. peru – 2.130, 4. guyana – 2.134, 3. brazil – 2.134, 2. venezuela – 2.693, 1. colombia – 2.693.

The index was developed by the Institute for Economics & Peace and has been used for more than a decade now. To evaluate the level of peacefulness, GPI conducts investigations to determine the extent to which a country is involved in ongoing domestic and international conflicts. In 2017, 23 indicators were used to determine the index.

Most Dangerous Countries in South America

Bolivia is known for its beautiful country houses and Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake on earth. With subtropical valleys that host a wide variety of plants, the magic plant of the Incas can be found in the eastern part of the Andes Range.

Unfortunately, Bolivia is also known for its level of crime . Travelers should exercise increased caution here because of its long history and present civil unrest.

Property crimes in markets and houses are not uncommon. Neither is theft. Pick-pocketing, purse grabbing, and stolen cell phones have all been reported by tourists and visitors. When visiting Bolivia, staying out of crowded areas is crucial.

Domestic violence is also common in Bolivia. Female travelers from countries such as the United States are often shocked at the prevalence of this type of abuse. Occasional druggings at bars and clubs have also been reported when money, jewelry and purses were stolen. Travelers from wealthier countries should also be aware of credit card theft at restaurants.

Although most of Bolivia’s theft is petty, burglaries, where the residents are home, have been known to occur. Unsecured doors or windows provide easy access to both apartments and houses. Even houses that have secured doors and windows may be at risk if domestic employees allow burglars to enter. Employees may be tricked or bribed depending on the perpetrator.

The location with the highest threat level is La Paz. This is because political violence occurs frequently and is dangerous. Demonstrations, protests and other civil unrest is likely to happen in Santa Cruz and Cochabamba as well. While some of these protests are contained, widespread national protests have occurred for several weeks. Electoral offices were burned in several regions throughout Bolivia.

Political tension continues to be high in Bolivia and is not likely to slow at any point soon. The Overseas Security Advisory Council cautions travelers about protest activity in foreign countries. Bolivia is no exception. Even what may begin as a peaceful protest can quickly turn violent.

The nation was ranked at position 97 on the GPI.

Ecuador is a relatively safe country, and solo female visitors frequently report feeling safe enough to travel throughout the country.

However, due to criminal activity, the U.S. State Department advises against visiting Carchi, Sucumbos, and Esmereldas in the north.

Pickpocketing and other petty crime are a problem in Ecuador, as in many other countries, especially in large cities such as Quito and Guayaquil. Keep your cash and phone in your front pockets and carry your pouch on your front. Robberies do occur on night busses and in unlicensed cabs. Therefore, travel during the day and only with trusted transportation companies.

The nation was ranked at position 103 on the GPI.  It dropped almost 2 positions since the previous year and it will most likely be dropping more due to civil unrest happening across the country in the last few months.

IMPORTANT: – Check out the latest update on travel to Peru during Civil Unrest . – Latest U.S. Travel Advisory

Petty crime in Peru is a major problem that makes the country relatively dangerous, although the situation has improved significantly.

Tourist areas and public transportation are the most common targets for theft and pickpocketing, but violent crimes are also seen on the streets.

The main strategy of pickpockets is to distract visitors, for example, by having an elderly woman pour something over you, fall in front of you, or drop something at your feet.

Then someone will rip open your bag with a razor or just rush in and take your entire bag.

In Peru, there is a considerable risk of being deceived. Avoid anyone who hangs around ATMs or tries to distract you. Cab drivers may try to trick you into paying more for the fare.

The country was placed at position 106 in the GPI and is located in the northern mainland of South America. One of the things that makes it stand out among other South American nations is that English is the official language. Although Guyana is known for its welcoming people, there are many dangers that you should be aware of.

Other than a high number of petty theft cases in the nation, there are many cases of violent crimes. Ensure you have your identification documents with you at all times to avoid arrests and questioning by law enforcement authorities.

Drug trafficking is also prevalent in Guyana. To stay safe, avoid carrying items you did not purchase or pack personally as law enforcers deal with any violations strictly. Additionally, ensure that you take your prescriptions for medication with you to prove that they are not illegal drugs.

There are many types of scams in Guyana. One of the most common issues is counterfeit currency. Usually, criminals offer to exchange foreign currency using favorable rates, but the money received is worthless.

Tourists are recommended to depend on licensed exchange services in Guyana, such as banks and hotels. Although you may pay a higher rate, you’ll not lose your hard-earned money. Just like most countries with many tourist attractions, you’ll find many pickpockets in the country.

The nation was ranked at position 132 on the GPI. One of the easiest to stay safe in the country is to maintain a low profile. Avoid putting on diamond-encrusted or shiny outfits. Most robbers target people who are fond of luxurious items.

Only carry a small amount of money and minimal bank cards with you when moving around. After shopping, take your goods to your apartment before going out for dinner or entertainment joints.

Brazilian authorities have pointed out that the theft of tech gadgets has been increasing over the last decade. Therefore, avoid using your top-of-the-line phone or tech devices when in public places, as this may increase the chances of theft.

Some parts of the country should be avoided as much as possible. There are high crime rates in cities such as Rio, São Paulo, and Salvador during different times of the year. The number of reported crimes goes up during various holidays.

Check how it looks inside Rio’s favelas (quick ducumentary by Vox)

Keeping on the beaten path isn’t always safe for you. Some of the common crimes in the country include street theft and muggings, especially in various tourist attractions sites. Some juveniles may use guns to rob or organize a robbery with older adults.

Pickpocketing is also a major concern in Brazil. The criminals use a myriad of tricks and creative tactics to distract their victims. Some of the tricks used to distract victims include smearing them with mustard, daubing them with paint, and some robbers masquerading as beggars on the streets. Once you have been distracted, they’ll rob you in nanoseconds.

Another reason that makes Brazil one of the most dangerous countries in South America is the high incidences of financial fraud and ATM theft. In the past decade, criminals have developed sophisticated techniques to rob people in ATMs.

You may also be a victim of credit card fraud if you fail to use it in reputable accommodation facilities and shops. If there are many cases of credit card theft in an area, consider using cash for payment of goods and services.

Nevertheless, Brazil is an amazing country and worth visiting, just apply basic safety rules and you will be fine. Check our article on Things to know before you travel to Brazil !

Venezuela is ranked as the second most dangerous country in South America in 2023 because of its political instability, high levels of violence, and increased crime rates.

It’s ranked at position 140 in the GPI. Violence is prevalent both in the country’s capital and some interior regions. According to statistics, Venezuela has one of the top five highest per capita murder rates globally.

Reports of kidnapping have increased significantly over the years, and armed robberies are also common. Some of the areas where there are high rates of kidnappings include residential apartments, hotels, airports, and unauthorized taxis.

Some attraction sites in the country are also crime hot spots. Therefore, research widely before choosing your travel destination. Low-income neighborhoods covering the hills around the capital city are dangerous.

Pickpocketing is also another major insecurity issue in Venezuela. Criminals concentrate in and around bus and railway terminus in Caracas. Most pickpockets in the area are well-dressed to avoid suspicion, especially during the rush hour.

To understand better watch this quick video, “The collapse of Venezuela, explained”

In the past decade, a phenomenon called “express kidnapping” has been on the rise. Criminals abduct people for a short period and demand money from the victims. Usually, the victims are selected randomly.

Colombia is considered the most dangerous country in South America in 2023. The country of beautiful beaches , amazing food, mountains, and salsa dancing was ranked at position 140 on the index. One of the things that makes it one of the most dangerous in the world is the high number of armed robberies.

In Bogota, the risk of crime is considerably high. Some of the common crimes in the country include mugging, assault, and credit card theft. Some of the weapons that criminals use are knives and firearms.

There have been reports of serious injuries and murders due to resistance by victims during robberies. Cases of burning of buses by criminals, terrorists, and demonstrators are also common in Colombia in rural areas far away from tourist spots.

Check out this interesting video, how Murder Capital of the World changed into peaceful neighborhood

Taxi-related crimes usually occur when cabs are hailed from the streets by lone passengers. Once the driver stops, the passengers and criminals enter. The victims are taken to several ATMs until the robbers have extracted the maximum amount of money.

Cyber threats are also major security problems in Colombia. Some of the cyber threats are politically motivated. For example, the country’s president’s email account was breached a few years ago. In the last decade, cases of financially motivated cyber crimes have also been on the rise.

Some criminals use drugs when robbing their victims. Local authorities have reported that scopolamine is the most common drug used by robbers. After the administration of the drugs, a victim can be unconscious for a minimum of 24 hours.

Despite all the above mentioned, Colombia is one of the most visited places in South America. There are many amazing places and safe destinations where you can have an amazing time. Just apply South American safety travel rules!

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Most Dangerous Countries in South America 2024

Taken as a whole, South America is quite safe to visit. North America , Europe (home of many of the world's safest countries ), Oceania , and Asia are statistically safer, but that does not make South America (or even Africa , which includes many war-torn and dangerous countries ) inherently unsafe. However, as happens on every continent, a significant gap exists between South America's safest countries and its most dangerous. Even in less safe countries, tourist resorts often employ extra security, which helps deter criminals.

How Is South America’s Security Ranked?

One highly respected measure of the safety and security of countries worldwide is the Global Peace Index , usually shortened to the GPI. This is a scale that takes into account several factors, such as the relationship of the country with its neighbors, the levels of violent crime, political instability, and access to basic resources. Several countries in South America are incredibly unsafe.

Is Venezuela a Safe Place To Visit?

Venezuela is one of the most dangerous countries in the world. It has a high level of political instability, a high level of violent crime, and a high potential for kidnapping. In particular, Venezuela does not have good relationships with the United States or Canada . It has one of the top five murder rates in the world, and kidnapping has increased significantly during the past few years. It is also not unusual for someone to be kidnapped at an airport, a hotel, or right out of a taxi. Therefore, it is best to avoid Venezuela, particularly in Caracas . Caracas has a tremendous amount of crime, ranging from pickpockets to acts of violence.

Is Colombia a Dangerous Place To Go?

Colombia is another dangerous country. Even though it is known for its salsa dancing, beautiful mountains, picturesque beaches, and amazing food, it also has a very high crime rate. Before booking a hotel or a plane flight to this area, it is critical to ask about security arrangements. Hotel attacks have been rising in Colombia during the past few years, particularly in Bogota . Credit card theft, mugging, and violent assault is also common.

How Safe Is Brazil ?

Brazil has improved its security levels during the past few years. It even recently hosted a World Cup; however, it still has a few dangerous areas. The best way to stay safe in Brazil has to maintain a low profile. A robber is likely to target anyone who looks like they have money. It is also critical to take any goods from shopping trips back to the hotel as quickly as possible, where they will remain safe. There is still a significant amount of crime in Salvador, South Paulo, and Rio. Crime tends to be more common during festivals and holidays.

• The Global Peace Index is a multifaceted analysis that compiles 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to determine the level of overall peace in each of 163 countries. Lower scores indicate greater levels of peace, and higher scores indicate increased danger.
• In 2023, the GPI scores ranged from 1.124 in Iceland , the world's most-peaceful country, to 3.448 in Afghanistan , 2023's least peaceful country.

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Which country in South America is the most dangerous?

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• 8 Most Dangerous Countries In Latin America In 2023, According To GPI Data - Travelling Lifestyle
• Global Peace Index 2023 - Vision of Humanity

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12 most dangerous countries in central and south america.

In this article, we shared our list of the 12 most dangerous countries in Central and South America. You can skip our global safety and peace analysis, and see the 5 Most Dangerous Countries in Central and South America .

Latin America stands as one of the most captivating regions on our planet. Boasting tropical climates and lush rainforests, it serves as a sanctuary for a multitude of awe-inspiring wildlife species. Moreover, its coastlines and remnants of ancient civilizations allure history enthusiasts from all across the globe. In spite of the challenges posed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and global interest rate hikes, Latin America's economies demonstrated resilience, as reported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) . Remarkably, the region experienced a growth rate of nearly 4% in 2022. Moreover, employment witnessed a robust recovery, and the service sector successfully rebounded from setbacks caused by the pandemic.

Despite the previous year's growth surge, Latin America continues to face substantial economic challenges. The region is poised for a slowdown in growth, projected to reach a mere 2%, primarily due to the impact of increasing interest rates and declining commodity prices. As such, growth will also be held back by a slowdown in trading partners, particularly the United States and the euro area. Although it carries substantial potential, a prominent challenge faced by the region is the prevalence of informality within the economies. In fact, the World Economic Forum highlights that approximately 60% of workers in the region are engaged in the informal economy, posing a significant concern to the development of the countries within Central and South America.

See also: 12 Fastest Growing Countries in Latin America

Consequently, poverty remains a pressing issue for this region. Amidst decelerating growth, elevated inflation, and global uncertainties, a considerable number of individuals in the region are expected to experience a decline in their living standards this year. As a result, they are likely to confront heightened concerns and anxieties about their future. Such widespread poverty often push inhabitants of Central and South America to seek alternative means of sustenance, frequently leading to criminal activities. Tragically, Latin America is also susceptible to the cultivation of narcotic-producing plants, exacerbating the already rampant crime rates in the region.

According to the Global Peace Index 2023 (GPI) , peacefulness in Central America declined slightly with an average deterioration in score of 0.71%. The decline in overall peace was primarily influenced by a significant deterioration in political stability, as well as a decline in relations among neighboring countries, which saw a respective decrease of 5.3% and 4.2%. Mexico, the largest and most populous country in Central America, retained its position as the least peaceful nation in the region in 2023. Nevertheless, it showcased a positive development in the 2023 GPI, with a notable improvement of 0.65%. This progress propelled Mexico three places higher in the rankings, reaching an overall position of 136th. On the other hand, South America witnessed a modest increase of 0.33% in its average level of peacefulness over the past year. Among the countries in the region, three experienced positive developments while eight saw a decline in peacefulness.

Fotos593/Shutterstock.com

Our Methodology

For our list of the 12 most dangerous countries in Central and South America, we made use of the Global Peace Index 2023 as our primary metric. The GPI report is an annual publication by the Institute for Economics and Peace, an independent think tank dedicated to establishing frameworks and offering metrics for assessing global peace. The GPI covers 163 countries comprising 99.7% of the world’s population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators, and measures the state of peace across three domains: the level of societal Safety and Security; the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict; and the degree of Militarization.

The countries on our list were ranked relative to their corresponding positions on the GPI.

Global Peace Index Ranking: 99

Cuba, officially the Republic of Cuba, is an island country comprising the island of Cuba, as well as Isla de la Juventud and several minor archipelagos. While Cuba is regarded as a relatively safe Caribbean country, there is no doubt that there are safety issues. Most notably, Cuba suffers from a high incarceration rate, ranking as one of the Caribbean nations with the highest prison population rate as of 2022. According to the latest data available at the time for this past year, there were 510 prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants in this Caribbean island.

Global Peace Index Ranking: 104

Peru is a diverse country located in the western part of South America that shares its borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile. Ranking low on the GPI with a score of 2.13, the U.S. Department of State has rated Peru at a critically high risk level for crime for more than a decade. Roughly 78,514 crime reports were filed January and March 2021, while the city of Lima registered over 500 murders during that same period. According to a survey, 82.3% Peruvians feel that they are at risk of becoming victims to some form of criminal activity.

10. Guatemala

Global Peace Index Ranking: 105

Guatemala, a Central American country south of Mexico, is home to volcanoes, rainforests and ancient Mayan sites. With a population exceeding 17 million and a thriving economy, Guatemala stands as the largest economy in Central America, both in terms of population and economic activity. As of 2021, the country boasted a total GDP of $86 billion and a per capita GDP of $5,025, placing it in the upper-middle-income category. However, Guatemala also suffers from rampant inequality and poverty, which can translate to high criminal activity. However, several measures have been taken these past few years to rein in crime, specifically violent crime, within the country. During the initial quarter of 2023, the National Civil Police documented 675 cases of homicide, indicating a noteworthy decrease of 16.4% compared to the corresponding period in the preceding year. This decline translates to 132 fewer victims of homicide reported during that time frame.

Global Peace Index Ranking: 106

Guyana, a former British colony, is situated between Venezuela and Suriname, distinguishing itself as the sole English-speaking nation in South America. Despite abundant reserves of bauxite, gold, and timber, a significant portion of Guyana's land is enveloped by tropical rainforests. Historically, the country has faced challenges in combating poverty and attracting investments to foster economic growth. However, Guyana's economic landscape has been experiencing a notable shift since the discovery of crude oil in 2015, followed by commercial drilling in 2019. One of the most dangerous countries in Central and South America, the governments of both the United States and Canada advise travelers to avoid traveling to Guyana, and to exercise extreme caution if they do decide to visit. Additionally, the country recorded scores of 4.996 and 4.5 in the Homicide and Violent Crime domains of the GPI, respectively.

8. Honduras

Global Peace Index Ranking: 120

Honduras is a Central American country with Caribbean Sea coastlines to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. In 2012, Honduras reached its highest point of violent crime, witnessing an average of approximately 20 homicides per day, often perpetrated by armed gangs like Barrio 18 or Mara Salvatrucha. Additionally, the country is recognized as a significant drug route to the United States. The presence of inadequate domestic law enforcement has facilitated Honduras becoming a vulnerable gateway for the illicit drug trade. With an overall GPI score of  of 2.26, Honduras ranks as one of the most dangerous countries in Central and South America.

7. El Salvador

Global Peace Index Ranking: 122

El Salvador, officially known as the Republic of El Salvador, is a Central American nation that shares its borders with Honduras to the northeast, Guatemala to the northwest, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. For many years, El Salvador grappled with one of the highest levels of gang-related violence globally. In 2015, the nation recorded a staggering homicide rate of 103 homicides per 100,000 people, resulting in a total of 6,650 registered homicides that year. This statistic positioned El Salvador as the most violent country in the Western Hemisphere during that period. However, the homicide rate has been steadily decreasing over the years. More recently, murders in El Salvador tumbled 56.8% in 2022 amid a widespread crackdown on gang violence, marking a sharp drop in killings in a nation which, for a prolonged period, held one of the highest murder rates globally.

6. Nicaragua

Global Peace Index Ranking: 123

Nicaragua, set between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, is a Central American nation known for its dramatic terrain of lakes, volcanoes and beaches. Coming in at the 123rd position out of the 163 countries examined by the GPI, Nicaragua ranks as one of the most dangerous countries in Central and South America. The U.S State Department advises individuals to reassess their travel arrangements to Nicaragua due to restricted availability of healthcare facilities and the arbitrary enforcement of laws, providing additional evidence of the challenges faced in the country.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Most Dangerous Countries in Central and South America

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Disclosure: None. 12 Most Dangerous Countries in Central and South America  is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Home > News > The 10 Most Dangerous Countries in Latin America

The 10 Most Dangerous Countries in Latin America

Latin America is one of the world’s most fascinating regions. With tropical weather and thick rainforests, the region is home to many of the planet’s most incredible wildlife species. Stunning beaches and relics left by ancient civilizations attract history buffs in their droves, while the region is also home to some of the world’s most spectacular beaches.

For all the region has to offer, Latin America is quite a poor region. High unemployment and poverty levels lead people to look for other ways to support themselves, which often means crime. Unfortunately, Latin America is also a region where conditions are ripe for growing the plants that can be made into narcotics, which adds more fuel to crime in the region.

The result is high crime levels , including homicide. Here’s our list of the most dangerous countries in Latin America.

1. Venezuela

Population: 28.44 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 46

Much of Venezuela is paradise on Earth. With a beautiful tropical coastline and stunning interior, visitors will get to see some truly jaw-dropping sights. Verdant national parks are rich with wildlife, while some Venezuelan tourist destinations are modern and have all you could need.

However, tourists have not been visiting the country in significant numbers for years. The reason for the drop is that social and political instability in the country has seen desperation and crime rates soar. The country has been seeing shortages of essential goods since 2013 and went into a deep economic depression in 2016.

The country’s political and economic issues mean that many people are desperate for work and even food. As a result, violent crimes skyrocketed, and Venezuela now has the highest homicide rate in Latin America, with a homicide rate of 45.6 per 100,000 citizens. The homicide rate is also among the highest on the planet. Tourists are often targeted, sometimes violently. Many governments advise against travelling to Venezuela, but if you still want to visit regardless, you should be very careful.

2.   Honduras

Population: 9.91 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 38

Honduras is a nation that has something to offer visitors from all over the world. Rich in history and stunning natural beauty, tourists can get a glimpse of life in ancient times and get close to some of the planet’s most wondrous creatures. Home to the second-largest barrier reef on the planet, the country is a haven for divers.

Unfortunately, Honduras is rife with gangs and the crime and violence they bring. Violent crime rates are among the highest on the planet, and the country has a homicide rate of 37.6 per 100,000 citizens. Some parts of the country are safer than others, and some 2 million tourists visited the country in 2017. However, many of these tourists came on cruise ships and stuck to relatively safe areas.

Despite all that Honduras has to offer, it’s probably wise to look elsewhere. If you insist on going, you should head to one of the least dangerous parts of the country.

3.   Mexico

Population: 128.9 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 27

Mexico has for years been one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Tropical beaches and stunning blue coastal waters make the country a mecca for sun-seekers, and there’s the country’s vibrant Latino culture that helps to make for an experience that won’t be forgotten.

However, tourists are no longer coming in the same numbers they used to. This is partly down to the US government advising against non-essential travel to the country, and US citizens made up a large bulk of the country’s visitors.

The warnings are largely down to violence caused by the country’s infamous drug cartels. The cartels are responsible for the county’s extremely high crime rates, including crimes like homicide and kidnapping. Such was the extent of the problem that the government attempted to crackdown using military operations, although this only escalated the levels of violence in some cases.

Mexico had a high homicide rate of 27 per 100,000 in 2020, and it’s advised to take extreme precautions if you do visit the country.

Population: 397,261

Murders per 100,000 residents: 24

A wonderful climate, exciting wildlife, and rich history help make Belize the ideal destination for many tourists globally. The government is also making tourism development a priority to help attract more visitors to the country.

However, high crime rates in the country are likely to deter many potential visitors. The crime comes mostly from gangs profiting from the drug trade and trafficking. Gang wars will occasionally spill over into the streets of Belize City, which can be dangerous for anybody in the vicinity at the time. Tourists have also been targeted, including for violent crimes like rape. The country has a homicide rate of 24.3 per 100,000 people.

If you want to visit Belize, it’s recommended to stick to the tourist areas only, but you will need to be careful even here. Crimes like pickpocketing are rife, and you should be extra careful not to stray into darkened alleyways.

5. Colombia

Population: 50.88 million

Columbia is not usually considered a major tourist destination despite its wonderful beaches and rich biodiversity. The tourism industry is relatively small here, although backpackers and other explorers travel to the country for the beautiful natural scenery.

One of the reasons why tourism is low in Colombia is because of the country’s reputation as a global centre of crime. For many, Colombia is synonymous with crime, particularly the drugs trade and the violent crime that’s associated with the industry.

Colombia has since been working hard to shake off its violent image, and vast improvements have been made. However, crime rates remain higher than most other destinations, and anybody visiting the country should take all precautions. Colombia has a crime rate of 24.3 per 100,000 citizens in 2020

Population: 786,559

Murders per 100,000 residents: 20

Although not commonly seen as a tourist destination, Ghana’s rich biodiversity is an attraction for many. Much of the country is relatively untouched and the country aims to use its natural resources to become one of the planet’s leading eco-tourism destinations.

Despite the peace of the vast natural areas, Guyana still has high rates of crime. Potentially violent robberies are a particular problem, and the country has a homicide rate of 20 per 100,000 citizens. The crime levels are not helped by high levels of corruption, with officials turning a blind eye to domestic crimes in particular.

Guyana is still a relatively safe destination, provided you use common sense and avoid certain areas. Take adequate precautions, and you should have no problems in what is a wonderful county that’s simultaneously laid back and vibrant. 

Population: 212.6 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 19

Home to one of the planet’s most famous carnivals, Brazil is a country that attracts visitors in its droves for its vibrant culture. Famous beaches are another attraction, while the verdant amazon rainforest also draws in visitors from far and wide.

However, while visitors get to stay in luxury hotels in modern towns and cities, many of the county’s citizens live in abject poverty. Around Brazil’s cities are favelas; shanty towns where many of the poorer citizens live. Most have come from or originated from other parts of the country and ended up heading to the cities to look for work. With so many unemployed, crime rates are high, including violent crimes, and the country has a homicide rate of 19.3 per 100,000 citizens.

Most visitors are unlikely to experience any problems and the country is quite safe for people who take precautions. Pickpocketing and robbery are crimes that tourists should be mindful of.

8. Guatemala

Population: 16.86 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 15

Guatemala is an emerging tourist destination. There is plenty to explore thanks to ruins from ancient civilizations plus, of course, some truly stunning beaches to relax on. Tourism now makes a considerable contribution to the country’s GDP.

Although the country has seen its economy improve in recent times, there are still high poverty and crime rates, including violent crime. Gangs operate throughout the country, including in major cities and tourist areas. Violence between gangs will occasionally break out, while robberies and pickpocketing are other prevalent threats. Although tourists are not usually targeted, the country still has a homicide rate of 15.4 per 100,000 citizens, so it’s wise to be careful.

For the most part, Guatemala is a safe destination for visitors provided they take due care. Stick to tourist areas, stay in groups, avoid dark alleys, and generally avoid making yourself a target and you should be fine.

9. Paraguay

Population: 7.13 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 7

Located far from the coast, Paraguay lacks many of the typical attractions that would attract tourists. However, the country’s thick forests attract visitors who want to take part in extreme sports such as jungle trekking and zip-lining.

Paraguay is still a destination to be careful in, but it’s violent crime rate has dropped over the past couple of years, from 24.2 murders per 100,000 residents down to just under 7.

Although Paraguay isn’t likely to be on most peoples’ destination list, the country still has plenty to offer to the people who do visit. 

What is the Most Dangerous City in Latin America?

Population: 3.2 million

Murders per 100,000 residents: 130

Caracas has been deemed by many as the most dangerous city in Latin America with a staggering homicide rate.

The city has been plagued by ongoing gang wars and violence that comes from illegal drug trafficking. Arduous political circumstances and a struggling economy have made matters worse with many locals struggling to get by financially.

Time for Personal Protection?

Whenever you are visiting an unsafe area, don’t take any chances. Protect yourself and your family with the most comprehensive personal protection services around.

Whether you have an SUV or sedan that requires protection, Armormax is your go-to option for the most robust coverage.

For more information on dangerous places, see the most dangerous cities in Europe , or Asia .

Armormax Team 205 articles

Frequently Asked Questions

Is south america unsafe.

Many places in South America are safe to visit, but it is important to check on the current situation before you travel anywhere. Two of the most notorious countries for drug trafficking and higher than average homicide rates are Colombia and Venezuela.

Is Mexico or Brazil safer?

Brazil has a higher absolute number of murders than Mexico and nearly 100 million more people living in the country.

Is Medellin safe?

Despite a history steeped in drug trafficking and violent crimes, today's Medellin is much more tourist friendly. It's affordability and warm year-round climate make it a popular destination for many.

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The risk of traveling to every country in South America, according to the US State Department

• Before booking your next South American vacation, it's worth checking which countries are the most dangerous and why.
• The US State Department ranks countries as levels 1 through 4, from least dangerous to most dangerous.
• While Venezuela is the most risky level 4, the rest of the countries in South America are levels 1 or 2. Peru's travel advisory was just upgraded due to crime and the Pan American Games.
• Visit BusinessInsider.com for more stories.

South America may be a perfect destination for your next holiday. But it's worth checking the US State Department advisories for each country to learn more about any risks before you get there.

The State Department uses four levels of travel guidance to offer Americans advice, set boundaries, and describe the risks of each country:

Level 1 - Exercise normal precautions

Level 2 - Exercise increased caution

Level 3 - Reconsider travel

Level 4 - Do not travel

Only one country, Venezuela, is classified as a Level 4, because of the ongoing conflict there. The other countries on the continent are all Level 1 or 2.

Here are the travel advisories for every country in South America, ranked from least to most risky based on the State Department's designation levels.

French Guiana - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the French territory.

Uruguay - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The US State Department doesn't have any alerts for the country, where every house has its own name.

Chile - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for this country, which has 60 active volcanoes .

Suriname - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The US State Department doesn't have any alerts for South America's smallest country.

Paraguay - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The US State Department warns some areas have increased risk, including Amambay, Alto Paraná, Canindeyu, San Pedro, and Concepcion. The agency points out that along Paraguay's northeastern border, the illicit trafficking of arms and narcotics is going on with limited police presence.

Argentina - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Overall, the country is classified as the safest travel advisory. But the US State Department warns American travelers that street crime is a problem in Buenos Aires, Rosario, and Mendoza. Keep an eye out for muggers and pickpockets working the streets, restaurants, and bus and train stations.

Travelers are also warned about violent robberies on side streets after dark in neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. If heading out of the city alone, be wary — sexual assaults have reported against solo hikers and bikers on trails in regions along the border with Chile, according to the State Department.

Bolivia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Bolivia is also classified as the lowest travel advisory. But the US State Department warns protests, strikes, and roadblocks are common. Outside Bolivia's large cities, emergency medical care may be inadequate. The government recommends being prepared when traveling to remote areas and inquiring about contingency plans for medical treatment.

In La Paz , "express kidnappings" are common, where tourists are forced to withdraw money from ATMS and then robbed. 

The government also recommends being vigilant for imposters. Organized criminal groups may pose as police or as criminal victims to rob unsuspecting victims.

Peru - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

In July 2019, Peru's travel advisory was upgraded due to crime and the Pan American Games.

The US State Department warns travelers not to go to the Colombian-Peruvian border in the Loreto Region, because of crime, in particular drug trafficking, or to the Valley of the Rivers Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro, because the area still has active terrorist groups. Both of these areas are rated a Level 4.

Travelers should be vigilant during the Pan American Games, from July 26 to August 11. They're a prime opportunity for thieves and criminals to target tourists, the advisory says. Avoid carrying largest amounts of money or valuables, and secure wallets and phones. The agency also recommends organizing taxis through apps, major hotels, or over the phone.

The State Department recommends Americans don't drive at night outside of cities.

Ecuador - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The US State Department warns increased caution should be taken with increasing crime.

Parts of the country are at a Level 4 advisory, with the agency recommending not traveling to Carchi, Sucumbíos, and the northern part of Esmeraldas provinces, including Esmeraldas city, due to violent crime. In Esmeralda, transnational groups have killed local citizens and carried out targeted bombings on Ecuadorian military and law enforcement.

Brazil - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The US State Department advises that American tourists exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime.

"Violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, is common in urban areas, day and night. Gang activity and organized crime is widespread," the advisory reads.

It warns travelers against going anywhere within 150km of Brazil's land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay. It also warns travelers against visiting "favelas" (housing developments), catching buses in certain areas, or visiting Brazil's satellite cities of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa after sunset.

Guyana - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The US State Department warns violent crime such as armed robbery and murder is common, and recommends increased caution.

If American travelers do visit, the agency recommends being aware of your surroundings, not displaying signs of wealth like expensive watches or jewelry, being extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs, and not resisting any robbery attempts.

Colombia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The   US State Department warns   travelers there is crime, terrorism, and kidnapping throughout Colombia. Terrorists operate in some areas, and violent crime is possible, the agency says.

Parts of the country are a Level 4 advisory, with the agency recommending Americans don't travel to Arauca, Cauca (except Popayan), Chocó (except Nuquí), Nariño, and Norte de Santander (except Cucuta), because of crime and terrorism.

The following areas are a Level 3 advisory, and the State Department recommends Americans reconsider traveling to them: Antioquia north of Medellin, Caquetá, Casanare, Cesar outside Valledupar, Córdoba outside Montería, Guainía, Guaviare, Meta, Putumayo, Valle del Cauca outside the Cali and Palmira area, Vaupes, and Vichada.

Venezuela - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns  of crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, kidnapping, and the arbitrary arrest and detention of US citizens. The agency ordered government employees and their families to leave the country in January 2019.

There are also shortages of food, electricity, water, and medicine.

The agency warns against travelling between Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas at night and not to take unregulated taxis from Simón Bolívar International Airport.

Read more:   Water from sewer pipes, cooking with tiny candles, and a Happy Meal that costs a month's pay: Photos by ordinary Venezuelans show life under an economic meltdown

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• Adventure Travel / Ask RAI / Living Abroad / Solo Travel / South America / Travel tips

Ranked: The Safest Countries in South America 2024 (+ Where To Avoid!)

Published December 19, 2022 · Updated January 27, 2024

The beautiful continent of South America , known for its incredible natural scenery, welcoming people, vibrant cities, historical towns, and ancient mythical stories, makes for a fascinating travel destination . Whether you’re an adventure traveler, an insatiable foodie, an intrepid hiker, a beach fanatic, a cultural enthusiast, a nature lover, or city explorer, there is something for everyone in South America . That said, unfortunately, the continent does have a bad reputation when it comes to safety . So it’s reasonable that you’re doing some research on the safest countries in South America in preparation for an upcoming trip . Today, you get to find out exactly that. I have not only included the safest South American country in 202 4, but a handful of additional options. You will also discover some essential safety tips as a traveler in South America.

All of this ↓↓ Let’s get into it….

Encompassing an area of 6,886,229 square miles, the fourth-largest continent on our planet is divided into 12 independent countries and a handful of non-sovereign entities .

The countries of South America are Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela . The two non-sovereign entities are the Falkland Islands of the U.K. and French Guiana of France.

What is the safest country in South America? Continue reading to find out….

South America — home of Amazonia, Machu Picchu, Galápagos Islands, Patagonia, Easter Island, Christ the Redeemer, and so much more -— attracts more than 37 million annual tourists looking to experience its wonders . Despite its colorful culture and natural wonders, South America is also known for its violent crimes, rebel groups, and drug lords. Parts of the continent have been deemed unsafe for potential travel . Much like any other travel plan, travelers must take precautions before planning a trip to these countries to ensure the right choices are made. 

Although some areas of South America are nests for narcos and drugs, there are many places you can safely visit, explore, and thoroughly enjoy . Even places widely avoided as a travel destination many years ago are turning the tide in recent years. With basic safety practices and an avoidance of certain areas and activities, a good time is almost guaranteed. Here are the safest South American countries in 2024 worth exploring for their heavenly, natural wonders and exciting adventures .

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Before we get into the countries, here are some important…

Safety Tips for Travelers to South America

• Be aware of your surroundings so as not to be placed in a position of vulnerability. 
• Wherever you go, be sure to leave your valuables at home or locked away in a safe place and travel with caution and care.
• Don’t put yourself in a position of being an easy target by acting or looking like one. As they say in Colombia, “no dar papaya” which translates as don’t give papaya and this saying means don’t be stupid .
• Pickpockets and petty thieves often target busy areas such as public transpiration or local markets. Be extra cautious in these areas . Also note that they often work in pairs with one to distract you while the other does the deed.
• It helps to be able to speak Spanish or Portuguese or even a few words in the local language so as to easily communicate during times of need and in the case of an emergency.
• Educate yourself on the current affairs of the country or region in which you are visiting so as to know of an unrest and to avoid demonstrations and instability.
• Dress and act appropriately by wearing clothing that is similar to what the locals wear so as not to stand out as a foreigner. Also conceal any valuables such as cellphones, cameras, watches, and other expensive items.
• It may also be a practical idea to register with your embassy or consulate before travelling internationally.
• Female travelers : women may experience harassment and cat calling due to the macho culture ingrained within South American men. While this is harmless for the most part, care and caution should be taken especially when alone.

Don’t stop traveling. Why? Discover the major benefits of traveling here

The Safest South American Countries in 2024 for the Adventure Traveler

Ok, now let’s really get into it….  What is the safest South American country?

1 | URUGUAY

Uruguay tops this list as the safest South American country in 2024 and 2023 with an overall score of 1.798 on the most recent Global Peace Index. This number also places the South American nation as the 50th safest country in the world and safest Latin American country after Costa Rica. 

Uruguay scores well on both external and internal conflicts fought, displaced people, good neighbouring country relations, low terrorist activity, and low political instability. The country does not fare as well on the civil police force, homicides, and perceived criminality in society.

Described as safe, politically stable, progressive, and culturally rich, Uruguay should be on every adventurers travel-list. 

Reasons to visit Uruguay include its unspoiled coastline that include numerous resorts, waterfront promenades, rolling sand dunes, and boating areas. Its mild climate, friendly locals, good infrastructure, and amazing scenery.

Its capital, Montevideo, is dynamic with a quality of life that is considered the highest in Latin America.

Highlights of a visit to the safest country in South America include:

•  the historic Colonia del Sacramento
• Punta del Este’s “hand sculpture” and Mansa Beach
• Montevideo and its Plaza Independencia, Ciudad Vieja, La Rambla, and Mercado del Puerto.
• the beaches of Punta del Diablo and Santa Teresa National Parl
• trek through Parque  Salto del Penitente that surrounds a 60 m (196 ft) waterfall

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2 | ARGENTINA

Argentina takes the runner up spot on this list of South America safest countries 2024. It scored an average of 1.837 on the 2023 Global Peace Index, placing the nation 54th overall in the world.

Argentina scores well in the categories of deaths from conflict, political terror, and displaced people. It doesn’t fare as well in the areas of the civil police force and perceived criminality in society. Travelers do need to note that most crimes here are in the form of petty theft, pickpocketing, and bag snatching.

As the most visited country in South America to travel to, Argentina is renowned for its beautiful geography and incredible natural wonders from the largest waterfalls to the highest peaks. Its vibrant nightlife, interesting mix of history and Latin American culture, impressive wine and cuisine, and friendly locals attracts travelers from around the world. 

Adventurers and solo travelers enjoy the safe environment provided by this South American nation. However, don’t skip on bringing some insect repellant to avoid any possibility of getting dengue fever. 

The following are Argentina’s wonders that travelers should not miss:

• Buenos Aires is the popular capital city known for its Latin passion, Bohemian neighborhoods, and superb steakhouses.
• Perito Moreno Glacier is an essential visit for those who love nature, flaunting Patagonia’s marvelous natural ice formations. This has long been considered as one of the most amazing natural landmarks on the planet.
• Iguazu Falls feature the most breathtaking waterfalls and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
• Cordoba , with its classic 16th-century architecture, is Argentina’s second main city. The population in this city comprises mainly of students making it an appealing destination for nightlife and culture.
• Patagonia’s Ushuaia is claimed as the city at the end of the world. It is the world’s most southerly city. While here, explore the Beagle Channel which is known for its spectacular marine wildlife.

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Chile is third on this list, having held the position as the safest country in South America in previous years. With a score of 1.874 on the Global Peace Index it is considered one of the safest countries in South America in 2024 and the entire world. 

This elongated country scores well on its low crime rate, UN peacekeeping funding, minimal deaths from conflict, and good neighbouring country relations. Areas of improvement include violent demonstrations and a high perceived criminality rate in society. 

This South America nation consistently claims the top spot as the best country for doing business in Latin America. As one of South America’s most prosperous nation, its strong financial situation is matched with political stability and low level of corruption and poverty. It offers a high standard of living.

Chile is well-known for its landscape features that are attractive to the adventure traveler. It is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers with its diversity that unfolds over a 2,700-mile stretch, comprising deserts, beaches, volcanoes, glaciers, lakes, forests, and vineyards. All of this makes it the most naturally diverse country in the world. In addition to its adventure tourism, other reasons to visit Chile are its ancestral culture, open people, good food, and wine routes.

The nation located along the western seaboard of South America is a hotspot for earthquakes so bear this in mind when planning a visit to explore the challenging wonders of Chile.

The top tourist destinations in Chile and highlights of a visit include:

• Santiago . This sprawling city in Chile is known for its authentic cuisine and various museums showcasing its culture and traditions.
• Valparaiso is one of the towns situated near the ocean and famous for its marvellous firework display during New Year’s Eve.
• Torres del Paine National Park is a one-of-a-kind remote journey as if you have reached the end of the world. You can explore this Patagonian wonder on foot, by boat, or by horseback.
• The Atacama Desert is for those who want to experience being in total wilderness. It is the driest place on earth, and its surreal view is striking and beautiful .
• Easter Island is a real catch for those who are awed by stunning archeological structures and monolithic stone statues. On this island , you can explore the history and traditions of Rapa Nui, the island’s aboriginal people.
• Marble Caves offers unique scenery with a cave system that can be explored by boat across the biggest lake in Chile.

Speaking of Costa Rica, be sure to check out: What it’s like living in Costa Rica -> pros and cons

4 | PARAGUAY

No list of safe countries in South America is complete without including Paraguay. The South American nation, known for its relaxed pace and natural landscapes, has an overall score of 1.942 on the 2023 Global Peace Index. It scores well on domestic and International conflict, but not so well on UN peacekeeping funding.

The country of Paraguay is generally safe, although there are a number of dangers the likes of petty crime, smuggling, violent crime, and corrupt police officers. Rates of street crime are low even more so outside of the capital. As a tourist, basic precautionary measures need to be applied to remain away from harm. 

Reasons to visit this nation, often referred to as the heart of South America include its amazing national parks, natural beauty, affordable shopping, tasty street food, and interesting architecture. 

Some of the best places to visit in Paraguay:

• Asuncion with its grand López Palace, the national Pantheon of Heroes, and the Museo del Barro.
• Cerro Cora National Park , the largest protected area in Paraguay featuring the eco-archaeological reserve of Gasorý and Cerro Muralla.
• La Santisima Trinidad De Parana for some of the best-preserved and accessible examples of Jesuit missions.
• The friendship bridge and Triple Frontier of Ciudad del Este .

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5 | BOLIVIA

Halfway through this list of the safest country in South America in 2024 and we have Bolivia, with a score of 2.001 on the Global Peace Index. This landlocked country located in western-central South America scored high in categories of Domestic & International Conflict, internal organised conflict, and displaced people. The country’s biggest letdown is the level of perceived criminality in society.

In the heart of South America, Bolivia is  home to some of the most dramatic landscapes on the continent . From pristine rainforests and high-altitude salt flats to cities rich with cultural diversity, there’s an incredible amount to see, do and experience here.

The best places to see in Bolivia include:

• El Salar de Uyuni salt flats . Formed by the disappearance of an ocean that once covered most of the Altiplano, the white salt flats of Uyuni are the world’s largest salt flat and biggest tourist attraction in the country.
• Lake Titicaca . The world’s largest high altitude lake and the largest lake in South America.
• Huayna Potosi  is one of the white peaks found in the Bolivian Cordillera Real just 25 km from the city of La Paz.
• Sucre , the first capital of Bolivia, located in the southern part of the Central Highlands highlights some of the best examples of Hispanic colonial architecture and republican historic city centres in South America.
• Sajama National Park . This vast conservation area is home to amazing natural scenery, wildlife, thermal springs, ancient cave paintings, and the indigenous Aymara people. Bolivia’s oldest national park also features the snow-capped Nevado Sajama volcano, the highest point in the country.
• Laguna Colorada , or Red Lagoon is a shallow salt lake in the southwest of the altiplano of Bolivia. This incredible natural wonder is renowned for its striking colors and its pink flamingoes.

6 | ECUADOR

Coming in at number 6 of South American safest countries of 2024 is Ecuador. Its overall score is 1.988 on the Global Peace Index. The country scored well in categories such as military expenditure, weapons imports and exports, and conflicts fought. Areas of concern remain its jailed population and violent demonstrations.

Its low cost of living and mild weather conditions attracts a large number of expats. For the traveller, Ecuador is relatively safe to visit. The country may have a history of violent crime, but things have improved recently. Tourist hotspots and public transportation are places where most pickpocketing and thefts occur. As usual, common sense and proper care is advised. This South American nation is full of incredible landscapes, history, culture, and cuisine. Its bustling capital offers a good mix of old and new while the rest of the country delights with its combination of unique customs and traditions of indigenous practices with European colonial influence. The country is world famous for its ecotourism and adventure travel opportunities. Adventurers will be enticed with the variety of activities on offer from paragliding, skydiving, and mountain biking to kayaking, trekking, and white water rafting.  

Ecuador holds a number of worthy tourist attractions:

• The well preserved old town of Quito , a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The pristine Galápagos National Park that encompasses over 3,000 square miles of unique territory.
• Yasuni Park is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.
• The Andean city of Cuenca with its blue-domed Catedral Nueva and the 16th-century Catedral Vieja.
• The protected Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve , considered one of the largest volcanic craters in the world, for its unique geological and biological finds.

Peru is certainly one of South America’s safest countries 2024, ranking 86th in the world in the 2023 Global Peace Index with an overall score of 2.091.

Located in western South America, the country scored well on military expenditure, politics terror, political instability, and domestic and international conflict. Areas that brought its ranking down include its UN peacekeeping funding and violent demonstrations levels. 

It is worth noting that street crime, muggings, and thefts are a problem in Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, and other major cities, so it is important to be vigilant in public places. Visitors to Peru are seen as wealthy and this can attract a target on one’s back. In addition, due to its location high above sea level, travelers not used to such extreme conditions can be prone to altitude sickness.

Peru is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery, ancient ruins, and outlandish cuisines. The landscapes of Peru are as varied as its food and its people. Find Amazonian swamps and sunny beaches to charming colonial cities and high altitude attractions. Experience some of the most impressive ruins in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu when hiking the Inca Trail.

The reasons why travelers visit this beautiful destination:

• Machu Picchu , set high in the Andes Mountains, is the most famous Peruvian destination and a must visit. The stunning archeological ruins and majestic scenery make it easy to see why it is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
• As one of the main gateways into the Amazon jungle, Iquitos is an incredible place to visit in Peru, and can be reached by boat or plane .
• Arequipa , the White City of Peru, is unarguably the most charming because of its striking architecture. It is also a great stop-off point on the way to Colca Canyon.
• Gocta and Yumbilla Falls , located in the northern part of Peru, is one of the world’s highest waterfalls. Surrounded by jungle landscapes, the region includes a wide variety of plants and animals species.
• Huaraz is characterized by its snow-capped mountains and turquoise waters. It is appealing to hikers and climbers who are eyeing their first 5,000+ mountain ascent.

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Brazil is also included on the list of safe countries in South America 2024 with an overall score of 2.465 on the Global Peace Index.

This South American nation scores well on external conflicts, displaced people, and political instability. However, it does suffer from a number of issues and does not fare as well on violent crime, political terror, and perceived level of criminality in society. 

Brasil is well-known for its rich culture, natural wonders, amazing beach lifestyle, and locals who love to party. There’s no forgetting that it is also the home of samba and soccer. 

Some of the most visited places in Brazil:

• Rio de Janeiro is most visited for its eye-catching beaches and mountains. It is also notorious for its Carnival festival and home to Christ the Redeemer statue.
• Chapada Diamantina National Park , located in the eastern part of Brazil, was created to preserve the diverse ecosystem in the area. With the wide range of mountains, valleys, waterfalls , plants, and animals, this is definitely a nature- lovers haven.
• Bonito is another popular tourist spot with sustainable eco-tourism practices , known for its jagged caves, tropical species, and turquoise water that are ideal for snorkeling.
• São Paulo is a city in Brazil that you should not miss as this sprawling metropolis is a paradise for those who love to eat. This city is packed with numerous food markets as well as large football stadiums and majestic green spaces. This city is well known as a quick escape for city-dwellers and travelers who crave a vibrant nightlife. 

Listed above are the safest countries in South America considered to be generally secure for adventure-seekers . Petty crimes such as thefts are common in major cities, but with vigilance and common sense (like with any kind of travel in general) tourists can be safe in this part of the world . 

In addition, other countries generally considered dangerous in South America such as Venezuela and Colombia are not unsafe to visit in general. Wonders located in far-flung areas such as the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall, the Angels Falls are away from distress, seemingly contained within its own beautiful cosmos.

You may be wondering …

Is South America Dangerous?

While some parts of South America are considered as dangerous, much of the continent is perfectly safe to visit. 

Speaking of danger, before finishing, lets take a look at places in South America where travelers are advised to avoid:

•  Most of Venezuela including Caracas due to political instability.
• Parts of Colombia – Buenaventura, Arauca, Norte de Santander, Nariño, Chocó, and Cauca due to crime, kidnapping, and terrorism threats.
• Parts of Brasil that include Serra, Mossoro, and Natal

How many countries have you been to? Here’s why it doesn’t matter and why you should stop counting

Keep in mind that a thorough planning of your trip is key to enjoy the sceneries and wonders of South America while remaining safe.

What countries would YOU love to visit on the beautiful continent?

Planning a move or a trip to South America and have any other questions? Be sure to let me know and I’ll be happy to help out a fellow explorer.

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What about bolivia? Is unsafe? Dangerous?

This article is completely wrong, I was in guayaquil last week where sicarios are found every where in the city, bodies are found floating in the river, is really dangerous and chile way more dangerous, too de Janeiro is dangerous too, Buenos Aires, be careful where you decided to go

The list is really perfect but if not based on the tourist attractions.

Guyana is safest .

What a place , we need to visit this place

It is funny how we ask, is it safe? But in actuality more than 3,000 people were killed at the Twin Tours, in New York, so was it safe??

Those people were working in the World Trade Center. They were not tourists. Which doesn’t make the loss any less frightening. Just making the point that your argument is not factually valid.

Silly assertion on your part. It was approximately 2000 New Yorkers who were killed on 9-11 and not tourists. What is your agenda?

During the September 11, 2001 attacks, 2,977 people were killed, 19 hijackers committed murder–suicide, and more than 6,000 others were injured. Of the 2,996 total deaths (including the terrorists), 2,763 were in the World Trade Center and the surrounding area, 189 were at the Pentagon, and 44 were in Pennsylvania.

Allan, what exactly is YOUR agenda? Sad that it only takes a few seconds to research something as vastly reported on as the terrorist attacks on Sept 11th, 2001…but instead you let your fingers just start typing without any facts. No need to respond, I will never read it.

You left out a few countries. And South America also contains French, Dutch, and English speaking countries.

Colombia is safer than Ecuador and Brazil. All depends on where and on the neighborhood you visit. Like with any country in the world. Go and visit Colombia. Just use common sense. Don’t go around flashing jewelry or expensive watches. Remember criminals are opportunist. In any country in this planet including the usa.

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The Most Dangerous Countries in South America and How to Prepare for a Trip There

Modified: Sep 23, 2022 by BasicPlanet · This post may contain affiliate links ·

South America is probably on every tourist’s bucket list. Who wouldn’t want to visit Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley or Isla de Sol? Or see at least once the Rio carnival?

Sadly, even though Latin America is a genuinely amazing place, it also has a long history of high criminality rates, especially drug trafficking. If you plan on visiting it any time soon, you’ll surely appreciate a list with the top most dangerous countries in South America .

Let’s get down to business and see those countries in South America that aren’t safe to visit , as well as the reasons why they are unsafe areas. Don’t imagine that all countries in South America are hellish. That would simply be a wrong assertion.

Most dangerous countries in South America  

Mexico has been and still is omnipresent on about every list with red flags for travelers you could ever find on the Internet. If you’re familiar in the least bit with American history, you already know why Mexico is so feared and avoided. Those reasons may have been emphasized by the actual president, Donald Trump, with his threats of building his dividing wall.

Mexico is a thriving nexus of drug traffickers. It’s no secret it’s there the US takes its marijuana, heroin and cocaine from. Drug cartels and the inability of the police forces to deal with so many of them spawn a high rate of homicides, violence and theft.

Sinaloa, Ciudad Juarez, Baja California, Durango, Tijuana and Guerrero are among the most violent cities in Mexico. It seems that all the violence is concentrated in the urban areas, although drug cartels fight in suburban and rural areas as well. Make sure that you’re completely safe if you travel to any of these cities.

The drug war is still in its brunt and there are no signs it’s going to stop all that soon, making Mexico the ultimate threat to a tourist’s security. It’s not surprising at all that Mexico subsequently makes the 1 st position in this list (and in others, too).

Venezuela  

In spite of the fact that Venezuela looks like a rustic piece of heaven from the exterior, things change for the worse pretty quickly once you step foot in the country. The greatest problems Venezuelans are faced with on a daily basis are: theft, carjacking, robberies and kidnappings.

These are produced by the poor economic and social environment. People are underpaid, unsafe and underfed, thus they have to rely on stealing and kidnapping tourists for ransom. A truly nightmarish scenario that unfortunately seems to endure the test of time, since little can be done to decrease the violence rate in the country, despite many efforts of doing so.

The slums (or barrios) are the most hazardous places to take walks in at night. 122 persons for every 100.000 become victims of homicide each year. Many countries have issued warnings for travelers, advising against visiting Venezuela, many of them applicable even in 2017, as the situation in the country is pretty much the same.

El Salvador  

El Salvador is a small country, which makes it even easier to see what’s wrong with it. Sexual assault, carjacking, kidnapping, assault and armed robberies are pretty much a part of everyday life in there.

San Salvador is the city with the highest crime rate, with as many as 13 crimes per day . Gang wars are already routine and account for more than half of a year’s casualties. The most obvious reason why El Salvador has become a place fit for a post-apocalyptic horror flick is the blooming corruption.

El Salvador, subsequently, is one of those places that stop you in your tracks and make you think twice about visiting it.

The most immediate issue one should be concerned when deciding to visit Colombia is kidnapping. Drug trafficking and armed rebels also contributes to the high rate of criminality that makes Colombia a dangerous place.

There have been instances when tourists were stopped by road blocks and kidnapped for ransom or assassinated. The state doesn’t really have a word to say, since the clashes between various armed groups is already too etched in reality to be wiped out easily.

If you do travel to Colombia, don’t travel by car outside the major cities, especially at night, as you can potentially be subjected to assault, robbery and extortion.

Guatemala  

There were 101 killings in Guatemala last year alone. These are echoes of Guatemala’s dark history (a long and bloody civil war), so maybe the notion of “post-war” doesn’t quite apply here. Guatemala is known for incredibly high rates of violence and many tourists stay away from it precisely for that reason.

Human trafficking, street gangs, sexual violence, femicide and drug trafficking comprise the unbelievably high criminality rate in Guatemala. There have been reports of tourists being stopped on the roads by police officers impersonators and subjected to sexual assault, robbery and extortion.

Truly a place you don’t want to visit without thorough preliminary research and safety precautions. It has been said that a crime takes place on the streets every 90 minutes, so be very careful where and with whom you’re going there. Kudos if you still decide to visit a place where a person is killed every 1 hour and a half.  

Corruption is thriving in Brazil, which leads to robberies, kidnapping, carjacking, gang wars, domestic violence and drug trafficking. Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, Porto Alegre and Curitiba are among the cities you might want to stay away from, as they have the highest rates of extortion and kidnapping.

Gang fights are a common norm in Brazil, so it’s no surprise why brutality and crimes have such high rates in the country. The saddest thing, however, is that children are usually involved in drug trafficking as well. They come to hold traffickers in high regards, because they provide a model (a bad model is still a model), unlike their parents.

Peru isn’t as dangerous as the others, but you can still be the victim of pickpocketing and bus robberies. There are thousands of tourists visiting Peru each year, and thieves know how to take advantage of it. But then again, it’s a lot safer than the previous 6 countries, so you won’t have to worry too much about being subjected to violence.

Sacsayhuaman, for instance, is one of those areas where you have to be careful what you’re putting on display, because you could get mugged. In comparison with the other contestants on this list, Peru looks like Disneyland, but there’s no harm in being cautious anyway.

How to prepare for a trip to South America  

First of all, see if there are any tourist travel warnings issued for the country you want to visit. You’ll definitely find out that governments are not keen on people travelling to the 6 above. This is the first logical step and every tourist should respect it.

Second of all, when you reach the destination, never show off your possessions. Refrain from carrying your wallet and credit cards around. If you do, purchase one of those reinforced rucksacks that cannot be cut nor torn. Don’t wear your camera around your neck and don’t wear rings, earrings and necklaces.

Third, don’t go wandering through a city when you don’t know it, especially the ill-lit neighborhoods. Even though it may still be a risk, try to visit only those places where there are a lot of persons. The chances of being targeted may diminish when you’re melting in the crowd.

Finally, read top tips for visiting South America , especially the ones that have been written by people who have been there. You’ll know exactly what to expect, as well as where it’s safe to go and where it’s not. There’s no reason good enough to skip this part.

Is South America safe to visit?  

By now, you should be able to answer this question yourself. There are dangerous places and safe places all around the globe, so South America isn’t the only one that poses threats for tourists. Of course, knowing which areas are dangerous makes it easier to avoid them (if people don’t go there regardless).

Obviously, there are some countries where you’d be in a more immediate danger than in other ones. That’s why you should always look for travel bans or advices from the travelling agency. Sometimes, safety precautions aren’t enough, not even when you’re joined by a touristic guide that knows a city better than he knows what’s in his own pockets.

If possible, never travel alone. There’s power in the pack, undoubtedly. Another valuable source of information are tourist hubs. Those are platforms were tourists share their opinions on certain destinations. Take a look in there and read everything that your eyes fall on. You won’t regret it, quite from the contrary. You’ll know exactly whether your expectancies are realistic or not.

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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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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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• Most Dangerous Cities In South and Central America

In terms of homicide rates, Central and South America may very well be the most dangerous multinational region in the world. There are many ways to quantify what makes the city dangerous, and for the purpose of this list, it is based on murder rate as provided by the Consejo Ciudadano para la Seguridad Public y Justicia Penal A.C .. The murder rate of a given area is usually determined by the rate "per capita", i.e., the number of people murdered in a given year population of 100,000. Although a city may have a larger number of homicides than other, if the population is higher, the murder rate may be lower. This may explain the presence of mid-sized cities on this list.

10. Natal, Brazil (69.56 per 100,000 inhabitants)

With a population of 803,739, Natal is the only Brazilian entry to make the top ten. It is found in the northeastern state of Rio Grande do Norte. However, despite the high rates of crime such as theft, physical and sexual assault, carjackings, and even murder, Natal remains a popular tourist destination as it is surrounded by several sites of natural beauty. Poverty has been pinpointed as a possible reason for the increase in crime in Natal over recent years.

9. Valencia, Venezuela (72.02 per 100,000 inhabitants)

Valencia is the third largest city in Venezuela , and the capital of the state of Carabobo. It counts around 1.8 million people among its population and is found around 172 km away from Caracas. Valencia, like many Venezuelan cities, have seen an increase in crime in recent years due to extreme economic hardship and political instability. Other crimes such as robbery, kidnapped and sexual assault are also said to occur at high rates in Valencia.

8. Ciudad Guayana, Venezuela (83.39 per 100,000)

Ciudad Guayana is a city found in the state of Bolivar in Venezuela. It is home to just over 1 million people. The second - but unfortunately not the last - Venezuelan entry on this list, Guayana has largely fallen victim to large-scale economic hardship and the violence of organized gangs.

7. San Salvador, El Salvador (83.39 per 100,000 inhabitants)

San Salvador is the capital as well as the largest city of El Salvador, and is home to 1.7 million in its metro area. Crime in El Salvador has been of great concern ever since the time of the country's civil war in the 1980s. Since then, the country as a whole has been ravaged by extreme gang violence, and San Salvador is no exception, which unfortunately helps explain this city's placement on the list.

6. Maturin, Venezuela (82.84 per 100,000 inhabitants)

Maturín is the capital of the northeast Venezuelan state of Monagas. It is home to nearly 500,000 people, and is about 530 km away from Caracas. Like many cities in Venezuela, the violence that has been sweeping through it is large brought on by the country's extreme economic crisis. Other complicated factors behind this high rate include food shortages and well as the corruption of officials.

5. Victoria, Mexico (64.67 per 100,000 inhabitants)

Victoria, or Ciudad Victoria, is a city in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, located on the eastern side of the country. It has a population of just over 300,000, making it one of the smaller cities on this list. Unfortunately, the state of Tamaulipas is no stranger to the danger of gang violence, possibly because of its geographic located between possible smuggling routes of the Gulf of Mexico and the US border.

4. Distrito Central, Honduras (85.09 per 100,000 inhabitants)

Distrito Central is actually a term describing the area of Tegucigalpa and Comayagüela, two major twin cities in Honduras who together have a combined population of just over one million. Like many of the entries on this list, these two cities have a serious problem with organized crime, a fact that has been growing stronger over recent years. In Tegucigalpa alone, 91% of crime involves male victims.

3. San Pedro Sula, Honduras (112.09 per 100,000 inhabitants)

San Pedro Sula, population 719,063, is the second largest city in Honduras after its capital of Tegucigalpa. Organized crime is a massive problem across much of Honduras, who has suffered deeply from a cut in banana production as well as extensive damage from a hurricane in 2013. Although San Pedro Sula is an important economic center for the country, murder rates have soared in recent years, and it remains violent and dangerous. This violence involves a large among of organized gang warfare.

2. Acapulco, Mexico (113.24 per 100,000 inhabitants)

Known for its status as a popular resort town, Acapulco may stand out as a surprising entry on this list. However, crime in this vacation destination, which has a permanent population of just under 700,000, has been growing as of late. The reasons behind this explosion of crime have thought to have been born out of various factors such as a decline in tourism revenue and the increasing power of very dangerous drug cartels.

1. Caracas, Venezuela (130.35 per 100,000 inhabitants)

Not only does Caracas top the list of the most dangerous cities in South and Central America, but with 130.35 murders per 100,000 inhabitants, it is also the most dangerous city in the world. Unfortunately, this is a placement that Caracas has held for the past few consecutive years. Like many cities on this list, Caracas suffers from the dominance of gang wars and violence stemming from illegal drug trafficking. According to the United Nations, the poor political and economic climate of Venezuela is also to blame for the violence. Aside from murder, kidnapping and assault are also commonplace in the city of Caracas, which has a population of around 1.9 million and is the capital as well as the largest city in Venezuela.

List of the Cities of Central and South American By Homicide Rate

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10 Most Dangerous Cities in South America

South America is a unique continent in the southern and western hemispheres consisting of 12 countries and 434,254,119 people.

It stretches roughly 4,700 miles from Punta Gallinas and Brazil at its northernmost point down to Cape Horn and southern Chile ‘s Tierra del Fuego archipelago.

South America is home to the ancient Andes mountain range, archeological sites such as the Nazca Lines or Machu Picchu in Peru , and Brazilian rainforests.

Unfortunately, the beautiful and cultured continent has gained a dangerous reputation, with certain countries and cities notorious for political unrest, crime, and violence.

While the World murder/homicide rate for 2020 was 5.61, a 0.74% increase from 2019, South America’s average rate saw over a 4% increase to 22%.

Brazil ranks near the top of the homicide list, with three other countries, Colombia , Venezuela , and Argentina .

Research is essential for traveling to South America, as some cities may require extra caution.

1. Caracas, Venezuela 

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Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, is renowned for its dangerous barrios, including the no-go area of Petare, where assaults, kidnappings, and murders are commonplace.

Politically unstable, Caracas has one of the highest crime rates in the world, with a danger score of 84 or 40.4 homicides per 100,000 people. 

However, the smaller business districts of Altamira and Chacao, the capital’s most cosmopolitan and gentrified areas, are considered safe.

These enclaves hold gleaming high-rise buildings, restaurants, and high-end shopping.

Chacao is also home to an urban park, Parque del Este.

The wildly popular Rio de Janeiro, with a danger score of 77.5, is a surprising inclusion. Its ranking is due to the higher rate of murders, assaults, and theft found in the Favelas and Centro.

The murder rate rose 4% in 2020, reaching 23.6 per 100,000 people.

It is also suggested that new gun ownership laws have played a part in the recent rise in murders and assaults.

There are now nearly 1.3 million guns registered to private owners.

Another ongoing crime issue is robbery.

The beaches of Rio de Janeiro at night are questionable and should be avoided.

The good thing is that there are safe areas in Rio de Janeiro. Ipanema and Botafogo are among the safest.

And with a little common sense, travelers can enjoy the vibrant colors and cultural flare of Rio de Janeiro year round.

Fortaleza, with a resident population of 2.7 million, is the capital of the northeastern Brazilian city-state of Ceará.

This popular tourist destination is valued for its red cliff-lined beaches, palm trees, and lagoons.

Unfortunately, a high crime rate is a factor, including violent crimes like homicides and robberies.

These incidents are fueled by gang violence, murder, assault, and kidnapping.

Fortaleza’s danger score is 77.36, with 22.5 violent crimes per 100,000 people.

Like Rio de Janeiro, the beaches at night are often the most dangerous.

According to World crime data, Praia de Iracema is the safest part of Fortaleza, but be extra cautious at night or when traveling alone.

Natal, a 423-year-old coastal city, has a population of roughly 900,000 residents.

It is s located in the north Brazilian state of Rio Grande Do Norte.

Unfortunately, it is another Brazilian city known for its high crime rate, with a danger score of 77.46.

And World crime data reports 74.67 violent deaths per 100,000 people.

Drug trafficking, robbery, and homicides are prevalent around Santarém and Rocas.

Its name Natal means Nativity  or  Christmas,  and the famous nearby beach town of Pipa is a popular tourist destination.

There is safety in numbers throughout the city, and situational awareness is essential.

If you want to tour Natal, the safest area is Ponta Negra, the city’s business district.

Colombia’s capital has over 7 million people and is one of the most dangerous South American cities, with murder rates hovering around 26.1 per 100,000.

Throughout the area, neighborhood boundaries change quickly, and robberies are pervasive day or night.

Bogota is notorious for drug trafficking and has two no-go zones – Suba and Santa Fe barrios. Another part of the city that is subject to high incidences of crime is the public bus system, TransMilenio.

It is overcrowded and a favorite spot for pickpockets.

If you want to tour Bogota, taxis or hired car services are the safest ways to see the city.

Walking in Bogota is not advised.

There are a few areas safe for tourists.

Upscale shopping and business districts like La Candelaria or Chapinero Alto are economic hubs with hotels, entertainment spaces, and post restaurants.

Another popular attraction is Usaquen, the city’s flea market.  

Guayaquil sits along South America’s Pacific coast along the Rio Guayas.

It is Ecuador’s third-largest city, with 2.7 million people.

It is also the least safe because of pervasive and ongoing gang violence and drug trafficking.

The murder rate in Guayaquil continues to trend upward, with 25.9 homicides per 100,000.

This translates into a danger score of 71.96

But Guayaquil is not all danger.

The northern part of the city holds the country club and the Jardin Botanico, or Botanical Gardens.

Malecón 2000, a central tourist attraction on the riverbanks, sits near the Basílica Menor Católica Nuestra Señora de La Mercedo.

This area is popular with tourists and is home to upscale hotels and cafes.

The Malecon is popular during the day but dangerous at night or if you are alone.

Founded in 1536 and with a population of 2.5 million, Cali is one of the country’s oldest and most dangerous cities in Colombia.

Situated in the south of Bogata in the Valle de Cauca, it is consistently ranked for drug trafficking, homicides, and gang violence.

Because of the influence of the South American drug cartels, murders, and express kidnapping are common in the city’s center, supporting a danger score of 60.35.

And the Siloé and the Aguablanca district are known for robbery and theft.

When traveling to Cali, keep sight of your belongings and minimize what you carry to avoid attention. 

Despite the danger, Cali is a unique city known for salsa dancing and the clubs of Juanchito.

Impressive 18th and 19th-century architecture and cathedrals are popular tourist attractions.

And surprisingly, there are five universities in Cali’s 239 square mile area.

MaraCaibo, founded in the 16th century, is located in western Venezuela, sharing a border with Colombia.

It sits on the straits near Lake  Maracaibo  and the Gulf of  Venezuela .

It is home to roughly 2 million people. But With a danger score of 82.57, tourists rarely visit it.

In fact, Maracaibo is a known hub for drug traffickers, with high rates of kidnappings and homicides, especially in the barrios of Santa Lucía and La Chinita.

One of the safer areas is the central Plaza Bolívar, home to the Cristo Negro (Black Christ) statue. 

Whether visiting in the winter in January or basking in the 87°F heat of August, sightseeing in Maracaibo is enjoyable if you stay in groups and know your surroundings.

It is also a good idea to minimize your belongings. 

Located on the Turbio River in northwestern Venezuela, Barquisimeto sits roughly 360 km west of Caracas.

It is the capital of Lara state and an up-and-comer in crime statistics.

It has a crime index of 71.8, which translates into 28.1 homicides reported per 100,000.

Unfortunately, this modest inland city of 900,000 residents is quickly gaining a reputation for assault, robbery, and theft.

Touring Barquisimeto during the day is relatively safe if you stay on the west side near Pueblo Nuevo and the Metropolis Mall.

The central area holds several essential attractions, including the Barquisimeto Museum, Botanical Garden, and zoo. 

Rosario, a river port in Santa Fe province, is Argentina’s third largest city.

The moderately sized city is located on the east bank of the Parana River in east-central Argentina.

Rosario is home to roughly 1.5 million people, including Argentine footballer Leo Messi.

Rosario is a growing hub for students and artists.

Unfortunately, a criminal element complements the increase in tourists.

Ranking in South America’s top twenty with a crime index of 69.8, the most commonly reported crimes are petty theft and drug trafficking.

The focus on petty tourist-centric crime is supported by one of South America’s lowest homicide rates, 5.4 per 100,000 people.

In the outer areas, gang violence is also common in Rosario.

The modest city is home to several exquisite museums and monuments, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the City Museum.

The National Flag Memorial, a mid-twentieth-century building, sits in the center of Memorial Square.

Whether this is your first or 100th trip to South America, a few simple precautions can prioritize your safety as you explore this amazing continent. 

Here are five safety tips to consider when traveling to South America:

• Avoid ATMs:  Robbery or assault at public ATMs are real risks – day or night. Look for machines located within a bank or secure building.
• Skip the bling:  South America has a high rate of pickpocketing and theft. Separate your money from your purse or wallet. Situational awareness is critical. Keep track of personal items, including backpacks, passports, wallets, and electronics.
• Use trusted transportation:  Public transportation in South America can be unreliable, and taxis are not always safe. If you must use a ride service, use official stands, reputable tour companies, or pre-booked airport transfers.
• Put your phone away:   If you have to use it for directions, step inside a building. This will help you stay alert while you are on the street. It is also a good idea to learn a few essential words in Spanish or Portuguese. At the very least, download a translation app or purchase an inexpensive translator.
• Prepare for emergencies:  Keep digital and paper copies of your passport, travel insurance policies, embassy information, and local emergency numbers – including hotel contact information. It is also advised to carry a basic first aid kit, including sunscreen.

Travel is about new experiences and enjoying your surroundings.

Common sense will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to South America.

Frequently Asked Questions

In general, yes.

But when booking pu

blic transportation anywhere in South America, use trusted companies and sites.

For safety, book taxis and local transport through the hotel.

Refuse any offer of a ride from unknown sources or someone that approaches you off the street.

The northern part of South America is above the Equator.

The global dividing line passes through Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil.

Three-fourths of the backward comma is located in a tropical zone, with the tip of South America just above subantarctic latitudes.

All of the countries in South America are generally safe for solo and female travelers.

However, some areas and activities should be avoided, such as jungle tours or walking alone, day or night.

Some more prevalent crimes throughout the continent are pickpockets, petty theft, and sexual harassment.

Additional Resources

2 Comments on 10 Most Dangerous Cities in South America

South America is a culturally rich and diverse continent, with stunning landscapes and unique experiences to offer.

However, it is essential to do your research and take precautions when traveling to certain areas.

By following these safety tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to South America.

By doing your research and taking necessary precautions while traveling, you can have an amazing experience exploring this unique part of the world.

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When to Go to South America – Best and Worst Times to Visit

South America is a vast continent with roughly 10,000 km separating the icy shores of the far south of Argentina and Chile from the Caribbean coastline of Colombia and Venezuela. Therefore anyone planning a big trip there will have a hard time figuring out the best time to visit South America with large differences in climatic conditions to be found.

Even Ecuador, one of the smallest South American nations has coastal, mountain and jungle regions, all with significant differences in weather conditions so you really need to think hard about what kind of trip you want to have before deciding when to visit.

This page should help you out by breaking down how the weather changes throughout the year in many of the most popular South American travel destinations. We also list some of the best festivals in the region which might be worth considering if you’re hoping to fit at least one of the big fiestas into your trip.

Table of Contents

January & february, march & april, may & june, july & august, september & october, november & december, best time to do the inca trail, worst time to do the inca trail, best time to visit patagonia, worst time to visit patagonia, best time to visit brazil, worst time to visit brazil, south america’s best festivals, backpacking south america – best time to go, south america climate.

The start of the year brings the peak months of the South American summer with January and February the equivalent of July and August in the Northern Hemisphere. There are warm temperatures in most southern regions and longer nights the further south you go. Major cities such as Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Lima and Santiago sizzle in close to 30°C heat most days and the popular beaches of Uruguay and Brazil are at their busiest.

However Andean regions and places nearer to the equator don’t experience anything like the same kind of seasonal variations with January and February not so different from June or July in terms of temperatures. It’s worth remembering that although it is ‘South’ America, seven of its countries have sections that lie north of the equator with the vast majority of Colombia and Venezuela lying in the Northern Hemisphere. The average temperature in the beautiful coastal Colombian city of Cartagena for example (on the northern tip of the continent) is between 30.5 and 32°C throughout the year with January being very marginally the coolest month.

In the Andean and equatorial regions, you want to pay more attention to when the rainy season is rather than how hot it is. January and February tends to be quite wet in parts of the Andes with La Paz and Cusco experiencing their wettest months. Even the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth can experience some minor rainfall at this time of year but any rain is certainly welcome with this being the hottest period of the year across Chile.

Read more – Find out all about the South America cost of travel featuring suggested daily and monthly budgets for all the different countries.

In southern regions, March represents late summer and remains hot (in all regions but the very far south). It’s still warm enough to head to the beach in all of Uruguay and Brazil for example. Autumn only really starts to set in during April in parts of South America that are far south enough to have a more typical ‘four seasons’ climate.

The more northern Andean regions tend to experience something of a rainy season at this point. April is the wettest month of the year in Quito and much of the Ecuadorian Andes while it’s also the wettest part of the first rainy season in most of Colombia. Large swathes of the Amazon are also very wet during this period with heavy rain falling between January and May across most of the Brazilian Amazon, peaking in April.

Head to the Andes in Southern Peru or Bolivia and you should find the rains easing up though, certainly be the end of April.

The Bolivian capital La Paz at 3.6 km above sea level , CC BY-SA 2.0

The nights are really starting to draw in across Patagonia and other southern parts of the continent by this time of year. It’s getting cold too with Ushuaia experiencing its coldest month in June with temperatures dipping below freezing most nights.

That is also the case in many towns and cities that lie at altitude during this time of year. La Paz, the world’s highest capital city , experiences average lows of −4°C in June but the mercury does quickly rise during the day to around 14°C, loosely mirroring daytime temperatures at other times of the year.

June is the start of the winter in Buenos Aires, which ranks among the best cities to live in South America , and central areas of Chile including Santiago and Valparaiso. Daytime temperatures tend to hover around 15°C with relatively sharp drops at night, particularly at altitude.

The rains have eased off along most of the typical ‘gringo trail’ through the Andes from Bolivia to Colombia, although this is the start of the wettest time of the year in much of Venezuela.

Rio de Janeiro and surrounding areas are at their coolest between June and September but with daytime averages of around 25°C, it’s still perfectly nice and this is also the driest period of the year in this part of Brazil. Head south towards Florianopolis, Porto Alegre and certainly into Uruguay and the coastal resorts do experience a more obvious ‘winter’ season which can make it too cool to spend much time on the beach throughout the middle period of the year.

The more commonly visited parts of South America are mostly relatively dry during this period with the rains at their most intense in Venezuela and the Guineas. It’s a pretty good time to travel through the northern parts of the Andes with cities such as Quito, La Paz and Cusco all experiencing hardly any rainfall. There’s a bit more in Colombia but July and August fall in between the two main wet periods in Bogota and Medellin for example.

Uruguayan beach in winter , CC BY-ND 2.0

September is the start of Spring in southern parts of South America. The temperature is starting to rise again in Lima, Buenos Aires, Santiago and Montevideo with all of those cities starting to see daily highs of above 20°C by the end of October. The same goes for southern parts of Brazil with the long beach season about to kick in again.

Further north, it’s getting wet again in much of Colombia. October is the month with the most rainfall in the capital Bogota while it can also rain a lot in Ecuador at the time of year. This period marks the end of the so-called ‘Andean Summer’ in Peru and Bolivia though with destinations such as Huaraz, Lake Titicaca and La Paz remaining relatively dry throughout September and much of October.

The final two months of the year mark the end of spring and, pushing into summer with long nights and generally sunny days across Argentina and Chile. High temperatures are pretty much guaranteed across South America in December with the exception of the southernmost parts of Argentina and Chile as well as anywhere located at real altitude.

The rains are starting to ease off in Colombia by the end of December but this month does mark the start of the rainy season in Andean parts of Peru and Bolivia with an average of 137 mm of rain falling in Cuzco for example during December.

Rio de Janeiro also experiences one of its wettest months with an average of 11 rainy days. That trend isn’t necessarily replicated across Brazil though with December among the driest months in Salvador (roughly 1,500 km north of Rio) and Porto Alegre (roughly 1,500 km south).

That variation is probably a good point to end on and we should say that the information you have just read is only a broad overview. South America is home to everything from the driest of deserts to wet rainforest, savanna and grassland regions, many of which have their own distinct climatic trends. It would take a long time to outline all of these variations so we’ve tried to focus on some of the more typical destinations for independent travellers in South America.

Worst & Best time to Visit South America – Major Destinations

With so many climatic variations and a large amount of ground to cover, anyone on a big trip around South America will find it impossible to visit every destination at the optimum period. Instead of trying to do that, you may be wise to just pick one or two places that you really want to visit and you anticipate will be highlights of your trip and plan around that. Here are some of the biggest draws for travellers in South America and the best and worst times to visit them.

Machu Picchu , CC BY-SA 2.0

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an essential part of many a South American itinerary and the highlight of the whole trip for some travellers. Late May to late August is generally viewed as the best time to do the trip as these are the driest months of the year with dry weather virtually guaranteed in June and July when there is hardly any rainfall.

This is also the busiest time of the year though (arrange your trip in advance) and Machu Picchu is just that little bit less special when you are competing for space with thousands of other camera-wielding tourists trying to find the perfect spot for a selfie. If you want to avoid the peak season, coming in April or early May is the best option with green landscapes but only a little bit of rain lingering at the end of the wet season.

December to March brings heavy rainfall to Cusco and the surrounding hills. This makes it pretty much the worst time to do the Inca Trail with the slopes slippery and a high risk that you will encounter torrential rain and potentially poor visibility at Machu Picchu. If you are not limited by any real time restraints and are in Peru at this time of year, you could potentially set up base in Cusco and wait for the weather forecast to clear but it’s a bit risky as you could end up waiting a week or more for a dry day so it’s probably inadvisable to visit at this time of year.

The Patagonian regions of Argentina and Chile are at their busiest and most expensive during the South American summer but this is certainly the best time to go from a weather perspective. November to March is generally viewed as the window of opportunity when it is warm enough to properly enjoy the stunning natural wonders that Patagonia has to offer. You can expect daily highs of between 12 and 15°C in and around the cities Ushuaia and Punta Arenas in the extreme south with warmer weather the further north you go.

If you want to visit Antarctica, you will have no choice but to come in this period as the sea freezes over outside of the summer months, making it all but impossible to get there.

Wintry weather brings freezing temperatures to large parts of Patagonia from June to August. Roads can become blocked off, attractions close and camping outdoors becomes very challenging indeed. On the positive, the scenery is at its most spectacular with snowfall adding to the already dramatic landscapes of peaks, lakes and glaciers but not many travellers brave the long trip south during these months.

Brazil is enormous so there are some pretty extreme variations. Peak season on most of its coast is really from December until the end of the Carnival (February or March). This is when the weather is at its hottest but you can expect to pay more for accommodation at this time, particularly during Carnival week in Rio or Salvador.

Budget minded travellers may prefer to hit the coast just before or just after this peak period with temperatures still generally around 25°C even in the southern parts of Brazil during the months of March, April, October or November.

May or June is generally seen as the best time to visit the Amazon as it falls between the rainy season and the hottest months of the year which can also be quite unpleasant. However it is easier to get around on foot rather than canoe during the dry season (September to November) when water levels are much reduced, making this the best time for hiking in the Amazon.

June to September is the Brazilian ‘winter’ although it only really feels anything like winter in the far south of the country and some inland locations at altitude. In truth, there isn’t really an outright bad time to visit Brazil and if sightseeing and visiting the Amazon are bigger priorities than hitting the coast, then this isn’t a terrible time to come. If the Brazilian beach-life is a big draw, you may want to avoid June to September though or at least avoid areas south of Rio de Janeiro.

South America is home to all kinds of weird and wonderful festivals. Some travellers opt to just take the weather as it comes and plan around them. It’s certainly a great way to experience the region at its most vibrant and passionate.

January Feria de Cali – The new year starts with a bang in Cali with this festival which celebrates the region’s culture with a marathon of salsa music and dancing.

February Festival de la Candelaria – A festival to honour the Patron Saint of Copacabana which is celebrated on both the Peruvian and Bolivian sides of Lake Titicaca. It’s best experienced in the otherwise sleepy town of Puno which transforms into a huge city-wide fiesta.

February/March Carnaval – The Rio carnival is world famous and a wonderful spectacle but it is very expensive to visit the city and take in the best of the festivities. The Salvador carnival is a great alternative and you may be able to squeeze in a visit to both within the same trip.

March Lollapalooza – This is one of South America’s best international music festivals, taking place in Santiago de Chile each March with top acts, visual arts and great food and drink in the city’s Parque O’Higgins.

June Inti Raymi – On June 24th each year, experience the Inca Festival of the Sun with ancient rituals, processions and street parties in Cusco, Peru.

August Tango Festival – Buenos Aires is the birthplace of Tango and the best dancers in the world flock to the city at this time of year, although there’s plenty of opportunities for amateurs to get involved too. Festival Bananada – This week long festival in Goiana, Brazil is centred around independent music but also features art, cuisine and culture and has plenty of added extras including a skateboarding championship and a collection of Brazil’s best tattoo artists. Flower Fair – Medellin is awash with colour for 10 days each August as huge flower displays take over while there are also folk concerts and parades.

September Rock in Rio – Another of the best music festivals on the continent with past headliners featuring some of the very biggest names from a broad spectrum of different genres, although as the name would suggest, rock is the main focus. Mistura – This is one for the foodies and is basically a celebration of Peruvian cuisine with plenty of opportunities to tuck into the country’s specialities including ceviche, cuy and sanguche de chicharron.

October Señor de los Milagros – Latin America’s largest Catholic procession takes place in Lima.

November Day of the Dead – The Catholic All Saints and All Souls Days meet Halloween with all kinds of rituals to honour the dead. This is celebrated continent-wide but is perhaps most interesting in Bolivia where relatives sometimes dig up the skulls of relatives and decorate them.

December New Year’s Eve – Rio is again a fantastic destination for New Year’s Eve with fireworks across the majestic bay, hot weather and up to two million people cramming onto Copacabana for an amazing beach party that lasts till dawn.

This is just a small selection in truth and there are loads more local and national festivals in South America that we could have mentioned. Therefore even if you can’t time your trip to fit in some of these, you should still be able to find fiestas that do work around your time schedule. Just remember to book accommodation and preferably transport in advance around any major festivals.

If your trip is only going to last anything from a couple of weeks to a couple of months, then you can probably pick and choose your time to go based on the climate at that time of year, perhaps factoring in a major festival if that’s a priority.

For anyone on a bigger backpacking trip around South America , deciding when to go and in what order can be a tricky balancing act and you won’t be able to time it perfectly so the weather is great everywhere you go.

If you have roughly 6 months for example then starting out at some point in August in Colombia might be the optimum time to go about it before taking in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia throughout September, October and into November. That should see you just miss the start of the wet season in the Northern Andean region.

It would enable you to arrive in the south of the continent in late spring or early summer which would allow you to enjoy the start of the Patagonian summer and the long nights that brings if you decide to head to the extreme south. You’d then be able to end your trip by visiting the likes of Buenos Aires, Uruguay and Southern Brazil at the hottest time of year before potentially ending your South American backpacking adventure in style at the Rio Carnival in February.

Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia , CC BY 2.0

That might be the optimum way to plan if you are loosely following the typical South American ‘gringo trail’ but don’t panic if this timescale doesn’t work for you. The advantage of travelling at other times of year is that you should be able to take advantage of better deals on accommodation and transport leading to a cheaper trip.

It’s also worth remembering that Brazil, which takes up a huge portion of the continent, is essentially a year-round destination with only the very far south experiencing anything that even resembles a winter. Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador and most of Peru also have pretty stable temperatures throughout the year due to their proximity to the equator so if you don’t mind a bit of rain, it’s not a massive problem if you travel to South America at other times of year.

This article was published in November 2019.

Comments/thoughts welcome below!

Featured Image of Copacabana , CC BY-ND 2.0

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The Nine Best Countries to Visit in South America in 2023 for Nature, Culture, and Adventure

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 12th December 2023

Why do we travel? This is one of those existential questions best to answer with an example or experience, and the amazing continent of South America is full of them.

Chances are you’ve got a friend who raves about their time in Peru, Brazil, or Chile and you’re itching to get there yourself.

I’m here to give you a leg up on where to go, what to do, and how to do it best. I’ve visited almost all of the countries in South America (I’m just missing Ecuador, Brazil, Venezuela, and French Guiana), so I’m in a pretty unique position to guide you through this continent’s most spectacular places.

From towering mountain ranges to lush rainforests, dynamic cities, and spectacular beaches, South America serves up some of the world’s greatest adventures.

If you’re after unspoiled nature, beautiful landscapes, incomparable ruins, sun, and surf, or world-class food and drink, I’ve got you covered.

So which are the best countries to visit in South America? That’s for you to decide – but here are my suggestions.

Click to navigate this article:

Safety at a glance

It’s never been safer! Security has steadily improved across the continent, and most places in South America are now secure destinations for individuals and families. While petty crimes such as pickpocketing, car break-ins, and muggings can still occur, most trouble can be avoided by observing common sense.

While you should consult with your government travel advisories, we can confidently say that South America is an open and friendly travel destination.

As a general rule, the larger cities and capitals have the most crime, and visitors should avoid walking there late at night. It is advisable to take a taxi or Uber to your destination after dark. Avoid walking around with large amounts of cash, expensive jewelry, or with your phone out to ensure you are not a target.

Of the South American countries, Uruguay is statistically the safest country in South America, and Chile, Argentina, and Guyana rank as the next most secure. Violent crime is quite uncommon in these countries.

Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Colombia are also generally safe for visitors who avoid the worse areas of the largest cities. Brazil has the highest crime rate of the countries covered here, but travelers who avoid flashing their valuables in public rarely run into trouble.

For more information on the current safety situation in South America, read our guide to the safest countries in South America .

All countries in South America are now open for travel. We strongly encourage all travelers to be fully vaccinated before journeying abroad.

At the time of writing, no country requires full vaccination for entry, but some countries require a negative PCR test prior to departure. If fully vaccinated, testing is not necessary.

In addition, proof of travel insurance covering Covid-related illness is required in all South American countries.

1. Peru: food and archaeological heritage

Let’s kick off with an unforgettable destination: Peru. The land of the Inca is one of superlatives, from the topography to the kitchen. A lifetime could be spent exploring this country, and it would be a life well spent.

Everyone who visits raves about Peruvian food . While the ceviche gets the most airtime, the sheer variety of dishes never fails to impress. Its influences range from Inca to Spanish, Japanese, and Chinese. Few countries have incorporated so many ingredients and flavors into such a sumptuous cuisine.

A great choice for ceviche in Lima is La Mar Cevicheria , serving up the daily catch to discerning locals. For a truly special meal in Lima, head to the Michelin star-rated Maido , which specializes in nikkei , a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian foods.

Of special note is the cuisine of Peru’s southern city, Arequipa. For a taste of chupe de camarón (prawns in a rich curry-like soup) and rocoto relleno (spicy pepper stuffed with mince and veggies), try Victoria Picanteria Democrática in the center of Arequipa. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a pisco sour or chicha morada .

Between feasts, Peru has some of the best archaeological sites to explore. While everyone (rightly) praises the mountaintop citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu, this wonder is just the tip of the iceberg. In the Sacred Valley region near Cusco, visitors shouldn’t miss Saqsaywamán , Pisac , and Ollantaytambo .

If ancient mysteries are your thing, check out the expansive Nazca Lines in the desert in the south of the country. In the north just outside Trujillo is the ancient city of Chan Chan , which predates the Incas. Last, one of Peru’s best-kept secrets is Kuélap , built a thousand years before the arrival of the Spanish.

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For more details about visiting Peru, check out my guides to visiting Machu Picchu (and the Inca Trail ), the Sacred Valley , and all things Peru .

2. Chile: Desert, hiking havens, ancient ruins, and wine

Venturing south, Chile is a land of extremes. It is a country with temperate rainforests and Earth’s driest desert, the towering Andes mountains, and bucolic wine country. It seems a world apart from even the neighboring countries, and this isolation has given it its distinct character.

At nearly opposite ends of the country are two of Chile’s biggest draws, the glacier-marked southern region of Patagonia, and the northern Atacama Desert. Both are prime destinations for trekking, camping, and getting away from it all.

Nature lovers will find themselves in heaven further south, though. Chilean Patagonia has an end-of-the-world feel to it, between the wind-swept high plains, glacial lakes, and snow-clad Andean peaks of Torres del Paine National Park .

This massive region, which includes the isolated landscapes of barely-visited Tierra del Fuego, is ripe for exploration, and all four seasons offer a different adventure for visitors, including camping, hiking, wildlife spotting, kayaking, and much more. For details, take a look at my Patagonia itineraries .

The stark beauty of the Atacama Desert draws visitors for its wildlife, salt flats, geysers, and stargazing. San Pedro de Atacama is the central hub for journeys further afield, and travelers can either do a guided tour (mention Worldly Adventurer for a 5% discount) or go it alone with a rented 4X4. For more, read up on my guide to the Atacama .

Across the Pacific Ocean – just 3,686 kilometers (2,290 miles) away! – Chile’s most enigmatic island rises out of the ocean. Dotted with angular stone heads known as moai, Rapa Nui (Easter Island) is a living relic of the Rapanui culture who’ve inhabited this remote island for over 800 years.

Closer to civilization, the fertile lands of central Chile are home to some of the world’s best vineyards. The rich volcanic soil is ideal for many grape varietals, including cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and chardonnay, as well as rarer finds such as carignan, cabernet franc, and carmenere.

Between Santiago and Valparaiso is the Casablanca Valley, home to several award-winning wine producers, including Viña Casas del Bosque . Further south, Viña Montes in the Colchagua Valley specializes in bold cabernet sauvignon and complex carmenere.

For more on Chile, read my other guides and discover how to travel in Chile safely .

3. Argentina: football, barbecue, and vast natural spectacles

Chile’s neighbor across the Andes, Argentina, is a land of passion. The music, the dancing, the sport, and the food are all a reflection of this large, confident, and diverse country.

Much of what Chilean Patagonia offers can be found in southern Argentina, but a lot of the country’s appeal is in its cities and culture. A prime example is football.

Recently crowned World Cup champions for a third time, La Albiceleste are a national obsession bordering on religion.

The cities of Buenos Aires , Rosario, Santa Fe, and Cordoba are home to the most storied of the nation’s football clubs, and visitors are eagerly recruited into their fan bases at the first opportunity.

Arguably the most-storied of these clubs, Boca Juniors, play their home matches at La Bombonera, a temple, and cauldron of footballing passion. For those keen on an unforgettable experience, take a tour of the stadium.

It is very difficult, but possible, to get tickets to a match, but beware: a grudge match between rivals can make a London derby seem like a mild affair. The only way to get tickets is through the broker Landingpadba .

Other clubs in the capital to watch include River Plate, Estudiantes, and San Lorenzo.

Argentines are nearly as passionate about their asado as they are about their football. As the world’s largest producer of beef, asado restaurants can be found everywhere, and almost without exception serve expertly grilled prime cuts.

For some serious steak, head to Don Julio in Palermo District, Buenos Aires. While the focus is rightly on the beef (with optional chimichurri sauce), don’t miss the bife de chorizo sausage and a glass of malbec wine.

Finally, I’d be remiss if I failed to mention some of Argentina’s vast natural landmarks. Iguaza Falls straddles the border with Brazil, and while both sides allow you to appreciate this 80-meter-high (262-foot) cascade of thundering water, Argentina can lay claim to some of the more dazzling viewpoints.

In the far south of the country, Argentina’s other giant natural icon is water but in a colder form. Located close to the Patagonian town of El Calafate, the Perito Moreno Glacier is perhaps the easiest glacier to reach in all of South America, measures 250 square kilometers (96 square miles), and – for added drama – is known for its spectacular calving of ice.

The area’s within striking distance of Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, a city with a dramatic situation upon the Beagle Channel and the hub for cruises to the White Continent, aka Antarctica (read my list of the best books about Antarctica for inspiration and learn when’s the best time to visit !)

Looking to head to the White Continent?  I highly recommend the brilliant Swoop Antarctica. Their staff have extensive, first-hand experience of sailing to Antarctica and, because they sell cruises for all the well-known companies, they can give you handy, impartial advice for choosing the one that best suits you. What’s more, they specialize in small ship expedition cruises, which means you’ll be allowed to get off the boat at every stop on the itinerary (which is not the case for large ships!) and you won’t pay a cent more by booking through them rather than directly with the cruise company themselves.  Ready to be inspired?  Check out their  classic cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula , or their more unusual trips to  wildlife-rich South Georgia and the Falklands , or go further than most on  a cruise to the Antarctic Circle .

For more on Argentina, check out my other guides .

4. Brazil: Beach and carnaval

For decades, the word Brazil has been synonymous with fun. And given Brazilians’ love for music, dancing, and hanging out at the beach, how could it not? The biggest country in South America, Brazil has a culture and vibe all its own. I’m betting its infectious personality rubs off on you.

In Southern Brazil near the city of Florianópolis is the island of Santa Catarina, perhaps Brazil’s top destination for beach-goers. Visitors from all over come for the white sand beaches, swimming, surfing, and all-night parties.

The island has several beaches, from busy and buzzing to secluded and relaxed. These are indeed cool places to travel.

In addition to the coastline on the sea, there are the calmer waters of the lagoon, Lagoa da Conceição, for several types of water sports, including wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, and sailing.

The most popular beach for surfing and hanging out with locals is Praia Mole . There are seafood restaurants, beachside bars, and DJ parties year-round. Go to Barraco da Mole for a cold caipirinha overlooking the beach, and Tropical da Mole next door for a seafood feast.

For gorgeous beaches away from the crowds, try Praia da Lagoinha do Leste in the south of the island. You’ll need to hike a bit to get there, but it’s well worth the effort.

And of course, visitors to Brazil won’t want to miss out on the annual Carnaval, celebrated across the country but best experienced in Rio de Janeiro or Salvador.

The ultra-popular Rio festival is exuberantly celebrated by locals and visitors alike, and everyone is welcome to join the street parties, music, and dancing. The most famous parade is in the Sambadrome . It’s a jaw-dropping spectacle with its riotous floats, costumes, and displays.

Every neighborhood in the city has its own celebration, though. Each bloco (street party) reflects the neighborhood and people who live there. Just put on something yellow and blue and join in!

While Carnaval in Rio gets international plaudits, Salvador’s celebration, in the northern state of Bahia, is no less fun. Carnaval in Salvador reflects the large Afro-Brazilian population and their unique culture. This one sees less foreign tourism and may be a more local experience for travelers.

5. Colombia: Cartagena and national parks

One visit to Colombia and you might get hooked. There’s so much to see and do that it merits repeated visits, and the local people are some of the friendliest you’ll meet anywhere in the world.

Travelers to Colombia are drawn to its well-preserved colonial architecture, warm and welcoming people and its incomparable national parks.

Cartagena , on the Caribbean coast in the north, is one of the most atmospheric colonial cities from the Spanish era. Its brightly-colored buildings crowd the streets, providing shade from the intense heat of the sun. The narrow streets open into leafy plazas with outstanding museums, cathedrals, and monuments.

Travelers should make sure to visit the massive San Felipe de Barajas fortress , Palace of the Inquisition in the Cartagena Museum , and the Santa Catalina de Alejandría Cathedral .

Taking a tour with an indigenous Zenú guide offers the opportunity to peer under the superlatively beautiful skin of the city and learn about the struggles of Colombia’s indigenous people – and how tourism can help them revive their culture.

Just as stunning as the sights is the food. As Cartagena has grown in tourist popularity, its restaurant scene has exploded. Of special note are Restaurante Celele and Doña Lola in the Getsemaní neighborhood.

After dinner, head to Donde Fidel for salsa music and dancing, or Alquímico for DJs and cocktails. Read the full list of the best restaurants in Cartagena for more inspiration.

The astounding range of Colombia’s natural environments never fails to impress. With the Amazon rainforest, sun-drenched beaches, towering mountain ranges, and cloud forests, few countries can match Colombia’s amazing variety of national parks .

Tayrona National Park is an idyllic Caribbean beach retreat with jungle leading right down to the sand. For a slice of deep Amazonian jungle, head to Amacayacu , a remote national park. The high Andes El Cocuy offers prime trekking and camping opportunities, and Los Nevados is famous for its ethereal cloud forest under towering wax palm trees.

However, if you want to combine jungle landscapes with hidden archeological sites, don’t miss Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida, a “lost” city tucked away in the forests of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and only reachable as part of a five-day trek.

For all things Colombia, read my other guides .

6. Ecuador: The Galapágos Islands and Scenic Train Journeys

This relatively small country in South America is packed full of unforgettable experiences. Wedged between Colombia and Peru, it shares characteristics with both, yet has its own distinct culture, cuisine, and vibe.

From the spectacle of the Galápagos to the towering active volcanoes in the country’s center, Ecuador has so much to offer visitors.

The Galápagos Islands are a living laboratory for evolving species, having inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and now drawing tourists for its unique wildlife, including penguins, iguanas, giant Galápagos tortoises, manta rays, whale sharks, and blue-footed boobies.

Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will love exploring the reefs around the different islands and there are ways that you can even explore Galapagos on a budget .

While South America leaves much to be desired in the rail travel department, Ecuador has some scenic rail lines catering to travelers.

Routes include the Quito – El Boliche that passes by Cotopaxi Volcano, the thrilling Devil’s Nose which switchbacks down a steep ridge, and the Ibarra – Salinas line with several tunnels and marvelous bridges over river gorges.

Many of these excursions include food and local guided tours at the destination. For more information about traveling on Ecuador’s railways, check out their website .

7. Bolivia: Lake Titicaca and the Salar de Uyuni

In the middle of the Andes range is a country known for its high altitude and stark natural beauty. Bolivia may not be as touristy as its neighboring countries, but that’s not due to a lack of attractions.

Its most famous destination is the world’s highest lake, Titicaca, which it shares with Peru. Close to its border with Chile is the world’s largest salt flats: the otherworldly Salar de Uyuni.

Lake Titicaca is a natural wonder of the world, a huge expanse filled with glacial meltwater sitting at a dizzying height of 3812 meters (12,507 feet). Travelers shouldn’t miss a visit to Isla del Sol in the middle of the lake, the mythical birthplace of the Incas.

Copacabana, the gateway town to the lake, is easily reachable from the city of La Paz , itself the highest capital city in the world.

On the Peruvian side of Titicaca are the Uros Islands , famous for being constructed out of reeds. Their homes, boats, and furniture are all hand-woven and float on the lake.

In the high desert of western Bolivia, the Salar de Uyuni stretches to the horizon and during the rainy season acts as a perfect mirror of the sky above. In the dry season the salt flat turns paper white, and the terrain is less muddy and easier to traverse.

Also of interest just outside the town of Uyuni is the eerie train graveyard, a remnant of decades past when local mining was big business. In fact, Uyuni will likely gain importance in the years to come as the area is rich in lithium, the key mineral required for producing batteries.

Check out my other guides for a comprehensive list of what to do in Bolivia .

8. Uruguay: Cowboy Ranches and Punta del Este

Sandwiched between Argentina and Brazil, the Spanish-speaking country of Uruguay is influenced by its neighbors but has a distinctly European feel to it.

As in Argentina, this is gaucho (cowboy) country, and cattle and horse ranches are big business. And like Brazil, Uruguay has a legendary beach hotspot, Punta del Este, to call its own.

A major draw of Uruguay is its estancias : working cattle ranches that are often open to tourists. The plains, rolling hills, and marshlands of rural Uruguay are ideal for horseback riding.

Visitors can learn the life of a cattle rancher or go on an extended horse-riding trip at Estancia Aguila Blanca or San Pedro de Timote .

The country’s biggest and buzziest draw is the long, sandy stretch of beach in Punta del Este in the southeast. Surfers, scenesters, and the international jet set have been coming here for decades to bask in the sun and party till dawn.

The best-known symbol of Punta del Este is the striking La Mano , a statue of stone fingers emerging from the sand.

It’s easy to get your own piece of sand, too, as the beautiful beaches stretch for over 20 kilometers on either side of the peninsula. Surfers should head for Playa Brava just east of the point.

Beyond the sand, visitors shouldn’t miss the renowned Ralli and MACA museums. After dark, dine at the outstanding Lo de Tere or Leonardo Etxea . Following dinner, have a drink at Bigote or Moby Dick before dancing at Ovo into the small hours.

The area also attracts visitors for its range of wildlife. Southern right whales are often spotted from June to November, as are dolphins and orcas, while nearby Isla de Lobos has South America’s largest colony of sea lions.

9. Guyana: rainforests and giant wildlife

Mylast destination is far less known than the other countries on this list. However, Guyana will no doubt appeal to the intrepid traveler.

About 80% of the country is covered in rainforest, English is the national language and you’re likely to encounter few if any tour groups.

Because Guyana has retained its large swathes of primary forest, the habitats of its diverse species have remained intact, with many large species resident in this country.

In the national reserves, you may encounter jaguars, huge bird-eating spiders, howler monkeys, and harpy eagles. To see some of these animals and for an unforgettable experience, stay at the ATTA Rainforest Lodge in the Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve.

In the south of Guyana stretch the grasslands of Rupunupi. Visitors to Karanambu Lodge have the opportunity to spot capybaras, caimans, giant anteaters, and giant otters.

For those who dream of seeing the Angel Falls in neighboring Venezuela, Kaieteur Falls are no less spectacular, plummeting 226 meters (741 feet) and officially the longest single-drop waterfall on Earth.

For more on the hidden gem of Guyana, read my guides or contact my recommended tour agency, Wilderness Explorers (and mention Worldly Adventurer for a 5% discount).

Wednesday 15th of March 2023

What about Suriname (former Dutch Guiana) and French Guyane (still French Overseas department)??? A combined package tour of Guyana - Suriname and French Guiana gives you the authenticity of these 3 small countries called The Guianas!

Friday 24th of February 2023

Easter Island is an independent country now and it's not in South America. It is a Polynesian island good try on trying to claim it.

Steph Dyson

Tuesday 28th of February 2023

Nope...Rapa Nui is still part of Chile and thus part of South America.

15 Best Places To Visit in South America According to Travelers

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

South America is a treasure trove of coffee plantations, tropical beaches, delicious food, and natural beauty. It’s no wonder travelers are constantly booking trips back to this continent to explore its many wonders.

1. Patagonia, Chile and Argentina

Patagonia is located between Chile and Argentina and is famous for its treks, reserves, forests, landscapes, native wildlife, and glaciers. It also offers some of the best whale-watching, is home to the largest Magellanic Penguin colony, and has one of the world’s last glaciers still growing.

2. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands inspired Darwin’s evolution theory. They are one of the world’s most volcanically active regions and Ecuador’s first national park, with 97% of the landmass designated as a national park in 1959. These beautiful islands offer history, intrigue, wildlife, and panoramic views, which is why travelers love them.

3. Cuzco, Peru

Cuzco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, as it used to be the capital of the Inca Empire and retains its ancient stone architecture. If this kind of ancient history appeals to you, you’ll be in your element visiting Cuzco.

4. Santiago, Chile

Step into a world of culture when you step into Santiago. The capital city of Chile houses gorgeous art galleries and museums, like the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Fine Arts. If it’s not the culture you’re after, Santiago’s cuisine scene will undoubtedly tickle your taste buds. Tuck into empanadas and asado at one of the many bars and restaurants in the city.

5. Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia

This World Heritage Site is South America’s largest freshwater lake and one of the world’s twenty ancient lakes. While you can swim in the lake, it’s not recommended as it’s so cold. The main attractions are the floating islands of totora reeds that grow in the lake. You can take a boat to the floating islands.

6. Ollantaytambo, Peru

Ollantaytambo was the Incan Emperor Patchacuti’s royal estate. Outside of Machi Picchu, this area has some of the most incredible Incan Ruins and is well worth a visit. If you plan to stay in Ollantaytambo, there are many day trips that you can take to nearby sites that history enthusiasts will love.

7. Bogotá, Colombia

The country of Colombia is a firm favorite amongst travelers who’ve visited South America. It’s most well known for producing delicious Arabica coffee, throwing the most lively parties, and the passionate and friendly people who live there.

8. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni was another suggestion many travelers recommended visiting in South America. As the most extensive salt flat in the world at over 6,574 miles, it’s worth adding to the travel bucket list.

9. Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador

The Quilotoa Loop is Ecuador’s most famous trek for good reason. Hike across dusty paths, deep valleys, small settlements, and green hills. The trail begins or ends (depending on where you start) at the impressive Quilotoa Lake, a crater lake formed after an enormous eruption over 600 years ago.

10. Cuenca, Ecuador

One traveler said that Cuenca was her biggest surprise when visiting Ecuador, as it was a beautiful yet underrated city. Cuenca has incredible scenery, distinct and delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals, all contributing to a fantastic travel experience.

11. San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina

Bariloche is a mountain town located in northern Patagonia. Travelers love this spot because of the expansive amount of activities available, such as skiing at Catedral Alta Patagonia, taking the chairlift to see Lake Nahuel Huapi, and hiking the Cerro Llao Llao or Refugio Frey,

12. Banos, Ecuador

Nature lovers will feel like they’ve arrived in paradise when they visit Banos. The town sits at the base of the active Tungurahua Volcano and has been termed the “Gateway to the Amazon.” From Banos, you can explore impressive volcanoes, abundant wildlife, and national parks.

13. Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is another item on the bucket list for nature enthusiasts. It abounds in incredible wildlife and has some of the most beautiful jungle scenery and views of the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

14. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is known as the Paris of South America, and it has a Latin atmosphere, French architecture, museums, and art galleries. The city has a plethora of things to do, from eating your way through their steakhouses and watching a live Tango performance to walking the tree-lined streets of Palermo and enjoying Carlos Thays Botanic Garden.

15. Ciapata Diamantina National Park, Brazil

Travelers love a trip to this national park in Brazi. The ecosystem varies from the dry Cerrado to the tropical Mata Atlantica, and everywhere, you’ll find beautiful orchids and bromelia, and you may even be lucky enough to spot a jaguatirica or puma. Trek through the park for the scenery and shower beneath Brazil’s highest waterfall while spending time in Ciapata Diamantina National Park.

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