danger in south america?

Question

im thinkin about goin down there, but all i hear is the violence of crimes n things, what do u think of the situation down there

Answer 1

I've spent 5 months in south america on 3 different trips and 7 different countries.
I've never had a problem other than an intoxicated guy trying to get into a fight in Quito, Ecuador.

In general the more 'dangerous' countries tend to be along the andean corridor (Bolivia, parts of Peru, Ecuador and Columbia). In these countries, if you are street savvy (read not paranoid), you should not have a problem. Avoid dark empty streets at night, avoid acting like a lost tourist, dress modestly, and don't flash an expensive camera. If you must carry a video camera, don't carry it in a camera bag. A simple sturdy plastic grocery bag will throw most thugs off.
Never get into a cab with a 'plainsclothes' policeman if he stops you to check your papers or to check for drugs (walk to the station with him), and try map your route before you set out so you can avoid pulling out maps when you are lost. Don't buy drugs from anyone! Try not to get drunk and walk home. If you fall asleep on a bus, keep your valuables on you, and not underneath your seat.

Further South, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Things are usually as safe as most western cities. Sneak theft/pickpocketting is more common than street thuggery, but even these incidents are rare as long you are not careless. You should still excercise caution (not paranoia) no matter where you are.

Brazil is also quite safe provided you are prepared. Rio is reputed for grab and run crime, but again a few precautions and common sense will get you a long way. I've been there twice with no problem.

South America is a wonderfull travel destination with most portions very underpopulated and amazing scenery that is away from it all. Brush up on your Spanish/Portuguese and go enjoy what the land has to offer, and don't worry too much.


In general no place is the world is 100% despite any precautions you may take. Always keep your passports/valuable/credit cards in your hotel safe, but carry enough money to appease you average street thug but that won't break the bank... say $50

Answer 2

I don't know why people outside S.A have this idea that because we are third world countries, the crime and violence are worst but you are wrong.
Most parts in South America are less economically developed countries, that means that we are poor, not that we are violent.

Crime and Violence can be found everywhere, specially in big cities, e.g. Sao Paulo, Lima, New York or even Jefferson County where, The Columbine High School massacre occurred.

I am a proud South American girl, I have been traveling around my country (Peru) since I was 17 year old f to learn more about my culture, and is very safe. I've taken the bus, the train, many walks and all Ive found is wonderful people that had teach me more about life in my country. They taught me how to love this place more than I used to.

Answer 3

Definitely go. People in the U.S. (if that is where you are) are particularly bad about viewing the rest of the world is a backwards deathtrap. I get that all the time.

I'm an American expat living in Peru and have not had one single problem. I have to go to some of the not-so-nice areas of Lima too and never had anyone look at me twice. Obviously, you have to keep your wits about you, as it can be obvious that you are a tourist and that you probably have money. But usually the worst that happens is a snatched wallet, purse or cell phone. And that holds for any big city, even in the U.S.

Answer 4

I have lived 6 years in Argentina, 1 in Brazil and 1 in Mexico and have spent 1 year combined in Venezuela and Colombia. nothing has ever happened, I heard stories of friends of friends. That's about it. I have only met two people that were direct victims of violent crime while I was there.

Answer 5

Just got back!
Guatamala Mexico Argentina Peru ( a must) In fact everywhere is safe except Colombia. If you go there then go with a native. This is the only place that we had any trouble. The rest of S.AM is absolutely wonderful. Just don't miss any of it. Definitely plan for the Atakama desert and Machu Pichu and Lake Titicata

Answer 6

Of course you only hear news about violence and crimes bacause people from your country (whatever it is) is not interested in any other thing from South America.

Answer 7

hell's yeah there is danger in south america its only the northern part that you should be worided about but barzil, Argintina, are a must