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.
- 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.
- 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.