Staying Safe While Backpacking South America
Stay safe by keeping your valuables out of sight, using official radio taxis or rideshare apps instead of hailing street cabs, and avoiding walking alone at night in major cities. Always research the specific neighborhood safety levels, as crime is hyper-local and varies block by block.
- Budget
- 40-60 dollars per day (excluding long-distance transport)
- Duration
- 3-6 months recommended for a full loop
- Best Time
- May to September (dry season for the Andes and Amazon)
- Visa Required
- Depends; check individual country entry requirements for your specific citizenship.
Step by step
Use Official Transportation
Never hail a taxi on the street. Use apps like Uber or Cabify, or have your hostel call a 'radio taxi'. When taking inter-city buses, book with reputable companies like Cruz del Sur or Pullman and always keep your main pack in the under-bus storage locked with a sturdy padlock.
Apply the 'No Flash' Rule
Keep your phone in your pocket and your camera in an opaque bag. If you need to check Google Maps, step into a shop or cafe rather than standing on the street corner. Use a money belt or an internal pouch for your passport and emergency cash.
Vet Your Neighborhoods
Before booking, check neighborhood-specific safety guides. In cities like Quito or Bogota, tourist-popular areas can be surrounded by 'no-go' zones. Ask hostel staff daily: 'Which streets should I avoid walking down today?'
Trust Your Gut, Not Your Manners
If someone approaches you with a 'spill' on your clothing or a 'distraction' (the classic mustard scam), keep moving and ignore them. It is not rude to be suspicious; prioritize your safety over social politeness.
Questions people ask
Is it safe to travel solo?
Yes, thousands do it safely every year. Stay in social hostels to find travel buddies for hikes or night outings; there is safety in numbers.
What should I do if I get robbed?
Do not resist. Hand over your belongings immediately. Your gear is replaceable; your life is not. File a police report immediately for insurance claims.
- Safety Related Costs
- Budget $15-$20 extra per day for Ubers/taxis at night to avoid walking in high-risk areas. Plan to spend $50-$100 on a decent travel insurance policy per month that covers theft and emergency medical evacuation.
Packing
- Sturdy luggage padlock for hostel lockers
- Dummy wallet (keep a few small bills and old credit cards in it)
- Anti-theft crossbody bag with locking zippers
- Portable power bank so your phone never dies in a remote area