Want to know which South American countries are the safest? If you are planning a trip to South America, you are in for an unforgettable travel experience. South America is full of unforgettable attractions, dynamic cities and spectacular landscapes. In fact, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth. Whether you’re dreaming of visiting the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru or dreaming of immersing yourself in the landscapes of Patagonia, you need to know how to stay safe while traveling. Travel always comes with an element of risk, but by knowing the safest countries in South America, you’ll be better informed to plan the trip of a lifetime!
Chile
An epic travel destination, Chile holds the title of one of the safest countries in South America and the world! Here you can discover the richness of South America’s landscapes, from windswept deserts to the glaciers of Patagonia. While the Pacific coast offers beautiful beaches and colorful towns, in the far south lies Torres del Paine National Park, one of Patagonia’s most popular attractions. Far from the mainland, Easter Island awaits the most intrepid travelers. Additionally, Chile is known as the “Land of Poets” and is a paradise for art lovers.
When it comes to security, Chile ranks highly in the Global Peace Index. Of course, it’s always a good idea to be careful with your personal belongings in major cities like Santiago or Valparaiso, but otherwise Chile is a safe place to travel in South America. The biggest risk comes from nature itself, so if you’re heading into the Patagonian wilderness or the Atacama Desert, be sure to pack accordingly.
Argentina
Argentina, the second largest country in South America, is a popular travel destination. Surrounded by an incredible variety of landscapes, Argentina is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can visit attractions as diverse as Iguazu Falls, the Perito Moreno Glacier and the soaring Andes mountain range. Moreover, it is one of the safest countries in South America and much safer than the US in terms of GPI ranking.
If you are traveling to cities in Argentina, use common sense and keep your belongings safe. This is especially important in large cities such as the capital Buenos Aires. Other risks to consider involve mosquitoes, but these are generally limited to the north of the country. Therefore, be sure to take mosquito repellent with you if you plan to visit Iguazu Falls.
Uruguay
Uruguay, located just across the Rio de la Plata from Buenos Aires, is often overlooked as a tourist destination. In fact, it is the safest country in South America in terms of GPI rankings and is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere. The capital Montevideo is famous for its exquisite architecture and beautiful beaches. On the other hand, the vast pampas and rainforests beckon you to explore off the beaten path.
Uruguay, one of the richest and smallest countries in South America, is a safe place to travel. In fact, the country is famous for its liberal policies and open-minded values, so no matter your background, you don’t need to worry about traveling to Uruguay.
Peru
Peru, one of the most popular destinations in South America, is an ideal destination for tourists. There are many attractions here: Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Nazca Lines and the Sacred Valley are just a few of the attractions of Peru. Its major cities include historic Cusco and modern Lima, the coastal capital. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or trying a mouth-watering ceviche in the capital, you’ll be happy to know that Peru is one of the safest countries in South America.
With a GPI rating of 86, it is one of the most peaceful countries in the region. When traveling to Peru, you should consider the altitude. Indeed, much of the country lies at high altitudes, with Cusco and Lake Titicaca among the most popular attractions. However, altitude sickness is rare. The best way to avoid this is to stay within your personal activity level and spend some time acclimatizing once you arrive at altitude.
Ecuador
There is no place on earth like Ecuador. From the Amazon rainforest to the legendary Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is a small country with a lot to offer. Scientists and wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world flock here to discover Ecuador’s rich biodiversity. Seeing marine iguanas or giant tortoises in the wild are just some of the benefits of visiting Ecuador. The capital Quito, located in the heart of the Andes, is another highlight of a trip to Ecuador.
With a GPI score similar to Peru, Ecuador is one of the safest countries in South America. There is very little crime here and petty pickpocketing is the only thing to watch out for when exploring the major cities. On the other hand, Ecuador is located in the so-called “Ring of Fire”, so it periodically suffers from natural disasters. However, a trip to Ecuador is worth it!
Bolivia
Although Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in the region, it is increasingly becoming a tourist destination not to be missed. Home to the magical Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca and the highest capital in the world. Traveling to Bolivia is endlessly rewarding. In recent years, La Paz has undergone a transformation to become one of the most exciting cities in South America. In addition, visitors to Bolivia will want to discover its rich biodiversity and unique mountain landscapes. The huge salt lake of Uyuni and the sparkling waters of Lake Titicaca are among the main attractions.
Bolivia, one of the safest places to visit in South America, has seen a downward trend in crime rates in recent years. In fact, crimes against tourists are rare, although in urban areas it is advisable to keep an eye on your belongings
