Safest South American Countries: Top Safe Destinations Ranked

South America offers cultural depth, natural diversity, and excellent value for travelers. For many travelers, one question comes up early in the planning process: Is South America safe to travel to?

While safety varies significantly by country and region, the short answer is yes, if you choose your destination thoughtfully. According to the Institute for Economics & Peace’s Global Peace Index, Uruguay consistently ranks as the safest country in South America, driven by political stability, low violent crime rates, and strong democratic institutions. It is frequently followed by Chile and Argentina, which combine rich cultural experiences with relatively high levels of security.

Key takeaways

• Uruguay is widely considered one of the safest South American countries, ranking high for political stability, low crime rates, and overall peacefulness.
• Chile and Argentina are among the safest countries in South America for travelers seeking strong infrastructure, cultural attractions, and relatively high personal security.
• Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia are generally safe to visit in major tourist areas, though, as with any destination, safety can vary by region and local conditions.
• Countries with greater safety concerns tend to have stark differences between regions, making destination choice and itinerary planning an important part of the process.

The safest South American countries

The safety levels here are based on the Global Peace Index. This index evaluates factors such as violent crime, political stability, militarization, internal and external conflict, and societal safety. It then ranks countries using a composite score, with lower values indicating higher levels of peace. These are some of the safest South American countries, in no particular order. 

Note: Even if a destination is not on this list, that doesn’t mean it’s not a safe destination to visit. Many countries will have areas catered toward travelers with enhanced safety protocols. Always check local and US travel advisories, and decide what you are comfortable with, before booking the trip. 

Uruguay

Uruguay is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in South America, combining political stability, low violent crime, and a relaxed pace for travelers. It offers an easy, low-stress experience for visitors, with walkable cities, reliable services, and strong democratic institutions that consistently place it at the top of regional safety rankings.

• Safety score/ranking: High regionally (GPI 48 globally)
• Best cities to visit: Montevideo, Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento
• What to watch for: Petty theft in busy areas
• Healthcare quality: High, especially private clinics
• Best for: First-time visitors, solo travelers, relaxed city trips
• Average Going deal: $578 roundtrip

Chile

Chile is one of the safest and most developed countries in South America, known for strong infrastructure and relatively low crime rates. Travelers benefit from modern transportation, clear tourism logistics, and high safety standards, particularly in major cities and popular nature destinations.

• Safety score/ranking: Among top 3 in South America (GPI 62 globally)
• Best cities to visit: Santiago, Valparaíso, Puerto Natales
• What to watch for: Pickpocketing, occasional protests
• Healthcare quality: High in cities, reliable private care
• Best for: Nature lovers, road trips, outdoor adventure
• Average Going deal: $547 roundtrip

Argentina

Argentina offers rich cultural experiences with a generally safe travel environment in relation to other large South American countries. While economic instability exists, tourists typically encounter few serious safety issues when staying in well-known neighborhoods and following basic precautions.

• Safety score/ranking: Top in South America (GPI 46 globally)
• Best cities to visit: Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Bariloche
• What to watch for: Pickpocketing, scams in crowded areas
• Healthcare quality: Very good in major cities
• Best for: Culture, food, wine, urban experiences
• Average Going deal: $625 roundtrip

Peru

Peru is one of South America’s most visited countries and remains safe for travelers, particularly those who stick to established tourist routes. Cities like Cusco and key areas of Lima are well-policed and experienced in handling tourism, making Peru a solid option despite regional safety variation.

• Safety score/ranking: Mid-range regionally (GPI 96 globally)
• Best cities to visit: Cusco, Lima (Miraflores/Barranco), Arequipa
• What to watch for: Pickpocketing, transport scams
• Healthcare quality: Good private care in cities
• Best for: History, bucket-list sights, guided travel
• Average Going deal: $390 roundtrip

Ecuador

Ecuador’s compact size and diverse landscapes make it easy to navigate, with generally safe conditions in major tourist areas. While safety varies by neighborhood, destinations like Quito, Cuenca, and the Galápagos Islands are well-prepared for international visitors.

• Safety score/ranking: Mid-range globally (GPI 129 globally)
• Best cities to visit: Quito, Cuenca, Galápagos Islands
• What to watch for: Neighborhood-level crime variation
• Healthcare quality: Good private options in cities
• Best for: Short trips, nature diversity, island travel
• Average Going deal: $332 roundtrip

Bolivia

Bolivia offers dramatic landscapes and deep cultural experiences, with safety levels that are generally higher than some neighboring countries. Infrastructure is more basic, but travelers who plan carefully and stick to known routes typically experience few serious safety issues.

• Safety score/ranking: Mid-range regionally (GPI 83 globally)
• Best cities to visit: La Paz, Sucre, Uyuni
• What to watch for: Altitude, transport reliability
• Healthcare quality: Limited outside major cities
• Best for: Experienced travelers, cultural immersion, landscapes
• Average Going deal: $540 roundtrip

Safety by travel style: Where should you go?

Safest South American countries for solo female travelers

For solo female travelers, choosing the safest South American countries can make a major difference in comfort and confidence. Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina consistently stand out due to lower violent crime rates, reliable public transportation, and strong tourism infrastructure. Major cities like Montevideo, Santiago, and Buenos Aires offer walkable neighborhoods, visible policing, and well-reviewed accommodations, making them some of the safest places to travel alone in South America.

Best safe destinations for families

Families looking for safe places to travel in South America tend to prioritize healthcare access, infrastructure, and overall stability. Uruguay and Chile are among the safest South American countries for families, offering high-quality medical care, organized attractions, and family-friendly accommodations. Argentina also works well for families, particularly major cities and tourist regions, which provide cultural activities and safe neighborhoods that appeal to travelers with children.

Safest options for first‑time South America visitors

First-time visitors often ask: Is South America safe to travel to? The answer depends largely on destination choice. Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina are widely considered the safest South American countries for first-time travelers due to their familiar travel logistics, strong tourism services, and lower crime rates compared to regional averages. These countries make navigating South America easier and less intimidating for newcomers.

Safe countries for budget backpackers

Budget backpackers can travel safely in South America by focusing on countries with established travel routes and affordable infrastructure. Peru, Ecuador, and Argentina are popular among backpackers and are generally safe in tourist-friendly areas when standard precautions are taken. These destinations combine low daily costs with extensive hostel networks and guided transport options, making them some of the safest South American countries for budget travel.

Safest South American countries for LGBTQ+ travelers

Fun fact: South America is actually the continent with the highest levels of acceptance towards the LGBTQ+ community. According to the Equaldex Equality Index, South America has an equality index of 61 (legal index 73, public opinion index 49). Regarding individual countries, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, and Brazil consistently rank among the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the region, supported by marriage equality laws, strong antidiscrimination protections, and visible LGBTQ+ communities in major cities. 

Safety considerations beyond crime

Before traveling to South America, it’s important to look beyond crime alone. Major cities across South America generally offer reliable private healthcare, and travel insurance is recommended—especially for rural travel or adventure activities where medical access may be limited. This may be available through your existing memberships, such as credit cards, so check what you’re already covered for before opting into additional coverage. 

Natural risks also vary by region. Countries like Chile and Peru experience earthquakes, while seasonal flooding affects other areas at certain times of year. Political demonstrations do occur but are usually localized and announced in advance. Checking the US Department of State Travel Advisories is also a way to stay updated. Overall, travelers who monitor local updates and avoid large gatherings usually encounter minimal disruption.

Overall safety chart

Practical safety tips for South America

Traveling to South America can feel intimidating at first, especially for first-time visitors. While safety varies by country and city, most trips are trouble-free when travelers follow these few simple precautions.

Before you go: safety checklist

• Research neighborhoods carefully before booking accommodations, as safety can vary by city and area
• Share your full itinerary with a trusted contact at home
• Check if any of your existing memberships or payment methods already include travel insurance coverage to avoid wasting money
• If not, look for comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical care and trip disruptions
• Check current travel advisories and local regulations for your destination
• Register with your embassy if traveling long-term or to remote areas

Money and valuables

• Use ATMs inside banks or hotels
• Avoid displaying expensive items
• Carry only what you need for the day

Transportation safety

• Use licensed taxis or ride‑sharing apps
• Avoid overnight buses unless well‑reviewed

Daily precautions

• Stay alert in crowded areas
• Trust your instincts
• Blend in with local dress styles

Communication and connectivity

• Get a local SIM card or international plan
• Save emergency numbers offline

Plan your South American adventure with Going

Finding a safe destination is only half the journey—finding affordable flights makes it possible. Going helps travelers discover cheap international flights, including deals to South America, so you can focus on planning instead of price‑tracking.

If you’re ready to start planning, check out our guides on how to find cheap flights, when to book, and how to spot mistake fares.