Safest South American Countries for Solo Female Travel

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There I was, 2 AM, standing alone at a bus station in Santiago, Chile, with nothing but a backpack, a dying phone, and just enough Spanish to order coffee – barely. My mom’s voice echoed in my head: “It’s too dangerous!“. Well, a few years and 12 countries later, I’m here to blow your mind about the safest South American countries for solo female travel.

Statistical reality check: South America isn’t the danger zone media claims. Some countries here are safer for solo female travelers than many so-called “safe” destinations.

Is South America Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Short answer: yes, South America can be safe for solo female travelers, but the experience depends on where you go and how prepared you are. Let’s break this down with hard facts:

• According to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI), the safest countries in South America are:
  • Argentina: GPI score of 1.86, ranking 47th globally.
  • Uruguay: GPI score of 1.89, ranking 52nd globally.
  • Chile: GPI score of 1.98, ranking 64th globally.

For comparison, the United Kingdom has a GPI score of 1.70, ranking 34th, while the United States scores 2.62, placing it at 132nd. Kind of surprising, right?

Bottom line: some places feel way safer than others.

Countries like Argentina and Uruguay are pretty chill. But I’ll be honest – I’ve definitely had moments in parts of Chile and Bolivia where I was like, “Mmm, not feeling super comfortable right now.“

Here’s the deal: weird people exist everywhere. Literally everywhere. New York, Lima, Tokyo – doesn’t matter. The key is staying smart, trusting your gut, and not letting fear stop you from an awesome trip.

Do your research, stay aware, and you’ll be fine. Promise.

The 5 Safest South American Countries for Solo Female Travelers

1, Argentina: Cultural Safety with Attitude

Why It’s Safe: Argentina’s touristy areas are well-policed, and the locals are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. It’s vibrant, exciting, and relatively safe if you stay aware.

Argentina Travel Advisory: Level 1: “Exercise Normal Precautions”

Key Safety Features

• Crime Rates: Pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas; take standard precautions.
• Public Transportation: Buenos Aires’ Subte is safe during the day. At night, stick to Uber or Cabify.
• Healthcare: Excellent facilities, with English-speaking doctors available in cities.
• Friendly Locals: Engaging and warm, especially in tourist hubs.
• Emergency Services: Tourist police are approachable and proactive.
• Emergency Numbers:
  • Police: 101
  • Ambulance: 107

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Argentina

• Buenos Aires’ electric energy
• World-class wine and culinary experiences
• Passionate locals with incredible stories
• Diverse landscapes from Patagonia to wine regions
• Rich artistic and cultural heritage
• Tango culture that’ll steal your heart
• Affordable luxury experiences

Must-Experience in Argentina

• Buenos Aires’ vibrant neighborhoods
• Mendoza wine country
• Patagonia’s jaw-dropping landscapes
• Iguazu Falls
• Córdoba’s historic charm
• Bariloche’s stunning lakes
• Perito Moreno Glacier
• Ushuaia (world’s southernmost city)

Ready to dive deeper into planning your trip? Check out my ultimate guide to solo female travel in South America – it has everything you need to know to explore this continent like a pro.

Virtual Tour of Iguazu Falls
Take in the incredible views of Iguazu Falls. You can look around and enjoy the stunning waterfalls and lush jungle.

2, Uruguay: The Unexpected Safety Haven

Why It’s Safe: Uruguay is consistently ranked as one of South America’s safest countries. The crime rates are low, the people are super laid-back, and everything feels organized. It’s perfect if this is your first solo trip.

Uruguay Travel Advisory: Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution”

Key Safety Features

• Crime Rates: Minimal violent crime, with occasional pickpocketing in crowded places.
• Public Transportation: Reliable and safe, plus Uber is affordable and widely used.
• Healthcare: High-quality public and private healthcare, especially in Montevideo.
• Friendly Locals: Uruguayans are famously chill and welcoming.
• Emergency Services: Quick and dependable.
• Emergency Numbers:
  • Police: 911
  • Ambulance: 105

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Uruguay

• Beaches that look like postcards
• Most progressive country in South America
• Incredibly friendly locals
• Small enough to feel comfortable, diverse enough to be exciting
• LGBTQ+ friendly environment
• Amazing food and wine culture
• Rich cultural heritage
• Laid-back lifestyle that’ll make you want to stay forever

Must-Experience in Uruguay

• Montevideo’s historic center
• Punta del Este beaches
• Colonia del Sacramento (UNESCO site)
• Cabo Polonio National Park
• Lavalleja’s stunning landscapes
• José Ignacio village
• Wine regions of Canelones

Virtual Tour of Montevideo’s Historic Center
Explore Plaza Independencia, the heart of Montevideo’s history and culture. Use the arrows to look around and take in landmarks like the iconic Palacio Salvo, the Artigas Mausoleum, and the gateway to Ciudad Vieja.

3, Chile: Your Ultimate Safety Playground

Why It’s Safe: Chile has low crime rates and one of the most organized tourist infrastructures in South America. It’s stable, modern, and feels super safe for solo travelers.

Chile Travel Advisory: Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution”

Key Safety Features

• Crime Rates: Pickpocketing happens in crowded markets, but violent crime is rare.
• Public Transportation: Santiago’s metro is clean, efficient, and safe. Uber is also an excellent option.
• Healthcare: Top-notch facilities, particularly in major cities.
• Friendly Locals: Respectful and welcoming, Chileans make solo travelers feel at home.
• Emergency Services: Visible police presence in tourist areas.
• Emergency Numbers:
  • Police: 133
  • Ambulance: 131

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Chile

• Landscapes that range from desert to glaciers
• Mind-blowing cuisine that’ll make your taste buds dance
• Incredibly progressive social culture
• People so warm, you’ll want to move here permanently
• Adventure opportunities around every corner
• World-class wine regions
• Diverse ecosystems from coast to mountains

Must-Experience in Chile

• Torres del Paine National Park
• Atacama Desert
• Santiago’s vibrant neighborhoods
• Valparaíso’s colorful street art scene
• Wine regions of Casablanca Valley
• Chiloé Island
• Patagonian fjords

Virtual Tour of Mirador Base Torres, Torres del Paine
Look around and take in the views of Patagonia’s most famous landmark – the Torres peaks with the turquoise lake below.

4, Peru: Ancient Wonders, Modern Safety

Why It’s Safe: Peru invests heavily in keeping its tourist hubs safe. With visible tourist police and reliable infrastructure, it’s an easy country to explore solo.

Peru Travel Advisory: Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution”

Key Safety Features

• Crime Rates: Petty theft is the main concern, but violent crime is rare in touristy areas.
• Public Transportation: Trusted companies like Cruz del Sur are great for intercity travel.
• Healthcare: Excellent clinics in Cusco and Lima cater to travelers.
• Friendly Locals: Warm and proud of their heritage, Peruvians are happy to help visitors.
• Emergency Services: Tourist police are present in high-traffic areas like Machu Picchu.
• Emergency Numbers:
  • Police: 105
  • Ambulance: 117

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Peru

• Machu Picchu’s breathtaking beauty
• Incredible indigenous culture
• Diverse culinary experiences
• Stunning landscapes from mountains to rainforest
• Rich historical heritage
• Vibrant textile traditions
• Warm and welcoming local communities
• Affordable travel experiences

Must-Experience in Peru

• Machu Picchu (for a virtual tour of Machu Picchu, visit this post.)
• Cusco’s historic center
• Lima’s incredible food scene
• Sacred Valley
• Arequipa’s colonial charm
• Rainbow Mountain
• Lake Titicaca
• Amazon rainforest experiences
• Nazca Lines
• Colca Canyon

Want to see how Peru fits into a full South America trip? Check out my best South America itinerary for a perfectly planned route!

Virtual Tour of Rainbow Mountain
Take a look around and soak in the colors of Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Use the arrows to explore and get a feel for the altitude – it’s as stunning as it gets!

5, Ecuador: Compact and Safe

Why It’s Safe: Ecuador’s main attractions are well-policed, and the Galápagos Islands are among the safest places for solo travelers anywhere.

Ecuador Travel Advisory: Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution”

Key Safety Features

• Crime Rates: Pickpocketing in Quito’s crowded areas; violent crime is rare in Cuenca and the Galápagos.
• Public Transportation: Safe buses in Cuenca; use pre-arranged taxis in Quito.
• Healthcare: Modern facilities in cities; excellent clinics on the Galápagos Islands.
• Local Attitudes: Warm and welcoming locals.
• Emergency Services: Reliable police presence in tourist areas.
• Emergency Numbers:
  • Police: 101
  • Ambulance: 911

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Ecuador

• Galápagos Islands’ unique wildlife
• Incredibly diverse landscapes
• Rich indigenous culture
• Warm and welcoming locals
• Affordable travel experiences
• Incredible biodiversity
• Compact geography making travel easy
• Vibrant market experiences

Must-Experience in Ecuador

• Quito’s historic center
• Galápagos Islands
• Cuenca’s colonial beauty
• Otavalo markets
• Cotopaxi National Park
• Amazon rainforest experiences
• Mindo Cloud Forest
• Devil’s Nose Train Route
• Quilotoa Crater Lake
• Mitad del Mundo (Equator monument)

Virtual Tour of the Amazon Rainforest
Take in the view of the Amazon Rainforest from above. This virtual tour gives you a bird’s-eye perspective of the endless greenery and winding rivers in Yasuni National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.

Solo Female Travel in South America: Your Survival Guide

The Dos: How to Actually Stay Safe

Real talk. Here’s how to rock your South American adventure:

Before You Jet Off

• Learn some Spanish (seriously, even just the basics)
• Get travel insurance – non-negotiable. If you need something good and affordable, check out SafetyWing.
• Copy your important documents
• Tell your friends or family your rough travel plan (and share your location if you’re comfortable)
• Download offline maps and translation apps

While You’re There

• Trust your gut. If something feels weird, bail
• Stick to well-reviewed hostels
• Use legit ride-sharing apps
• Join group tours. it’s a great way to meet other solo travelers
• Keep your stuff close
• Don’t flash fancy gear
• Dress like a local, not a tourist

The Don’ts: What NOT to Do

These are the real deal breakers:

Absolute No-Nos

• Don’t walk alone at night
• Never accept drinks from strangers
• Avoid getting drunk
• No hitchhiking (seriously, just don’t)
• Don’t wear headphones that block everything out
• Never keep all your cash in one place

Social Media Smarts

• Don’t broadcast your solo travel status
• Don’t share your exact location online
• Keep your travel plans low-key

Emergency Prep: Just in Case

Keep this handy

• Emergency contact list
• Local emergency numbers
• Portable charger
• Backup cash
• Translation app
• Travel insurance info

What to Pack

• Portable door lock
• Personal safety alarm.
• Hidden money belt
• Multiple passport copies
• International SIM card
• Backup credit cards
• Comprehensive first-aid kit

Pro Tip: Your safety is about being smart, not scared. You’ve got this!

Quiz: Which South American Country Is Perfect for You?

1, How do you prefer to explore a destination?
A) Walking or biking through trendy neighborhoods.
B) Sitting by the beach with a mate in hand.
C) Hiking epic trails and chasing sunrises.
D) Immersing yourself in local traditions and history.
E) Snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and island-hopping.
2, What’s your travel must-have?
A) World-class food and an energetic city vibe.
B) Calm beaches, friendly locals, and a slower pace.
C) A solid pair of hiking boots and a thermos of tea.
D) A guidebook to explore historical sites and ruins.
E) A camera to capture once-in-a-lifetime wildlife moments.
3, What’s your travel mantra?
A) “Live for the energy.”
B) “Less stress, more sunsets.”
C) “Push limits, chase adventures.”
D) “Discover the past, embrace the present.”
E) “Explore the wild, protect what’s rare.”

Results

• Mostly A’s: Argentina: You love the energy of a big city. Buenos Aires’ tango, food, and culture make it perfect for you.
• Mostly B’s: Uruguay: Relaxation is your thing. Uruguay’s beaches and calm vibe are exactly what you need.
• Mostly C’s: Chile: You’re all about adventure. Torres del Paine and Chile’s landscapes are waiting for you.
• Mostly D’s: Peru: You’re into history and culture. Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are the ultimate experience for you.
• Mostly E’s: Ecuador: Wildlife and nature are your priorities. The Galápagos Islands are perfect for your kind of travel.

So, Is South America for You?

Okay, here’s the deal. These countries aren’t just some spots on a map – they’re gonna change your life.

I’m not kidding. The moment you land in South America, everything shifts. That bus ride in Santiago? The street market in Peru? The random conversation with a local in Uruguay? Those are the stories you’ll be telling forever.

Here’s the truth:

• You’re way more badass than you think
• Safety is about being smart, not scared
• Trust your gut
• Don’t overthink it

The good stuff happens when:

• You stop making excuses
• You say “yes” to the crazy opportunity
• You realize you can handle way more than you thought

This isn’t just a trip. This is you proving to yourself that you can do anything. So pack your bag. Grab your passport. And get ready to crush this. Let’s get lost together!