Traveling as a solo female traveler can be the most empowering and life-altering experience. Not only does it bring independence and freedom, but it also allows for deep immersion in native cultures. That being said, safety should be a top priority, particularly for new continents. South America had for years been shunned due to fears surrounding crime and instability. Now it is proving to be an incredible destination for solo female travelers to visit.
With the proper knowledge, you can travel safely through South America’s stunning landscapes, friendly cultures, and lively cities. In this guide, we identify the safest 10 South American cities for solo female travelers in 2025 according to new crime statistics, traveler reviews, safety infrastructure, and friendliness of the population.
What makes a city safe for solo female travelers?
Before we get into the list, we need to know what we mean by “safe.” In this article, we mean:
Low crime levels, particularly violent crime and sexual harassment.
Low-cost public transportation and accessible ride-hailing.
Safe, walkable communities with well-lit streets and police patrols.
Affirmative traveler testimonials from solo female travelers.
More respectful neighborhood culture and fewer cases of catcalling and harassment.
Health care and emergency service access.
Secure Wi-Fi and internet connectivity, enabling women to remain in touch.
Let’s take a peek at where in South America in 2025, you can travel alone without looking back.
Montevideo, Uruguay
Why is it safe?
Montevideo leads the pack as the safest capital in South America. Uruguay ranks as one of the most peaceful and stable countries on the continent, on a consistent basis, and has low crime rates and an open-minded society.
Wikipedia
Stripped-back beach ambiance on the Rambla de Montevideo.
Colorful street paintings in Ciudad Vieja.
Local life at Feria Tristán Narvaja, the Sunday street market.
Safety Tips:
Stay in well-lit locations at nighttime and do not go to beaches late at night. Utilize ride-hailing services such as Uber for extra protection.
Santiago, Chile
Why is it safe?
The economy of Chile is among the most developed and stable in all of South America. Santiago has clean streets and organized neighborhoods, along with modern infrastructure.
Riding the cable car across Cerro San Cristóbal.
Museums and colonial sites of Lastarria and Bellavista.
Wine tasting in the nearby Maipo Valley.
Safe Places to Stay:
Las Condes and Providencia are safe and upscale neighborhoods with plenty of coworking establishments and cafes.
Safety Tips:
Always keep your senses on high alert in busy locations such as subway stations to evade being robbed.
Colombia’s Medel
Why is it Safe?
Once notorious for its troubled history, today’s Medellín is a beacon of urban renewal. Backpackers and solo female travelers love it as much as remote workers and the paisas, the friendly locals.
Vibrant murals in Comuna 13
Panoramic Metrocable journey through the mountains.
Greenery of Jardín Botánico in luxur
Where to Stay:
El Poblado is the neighborhood of choice for solo female travelers, safe to walk around, with plenty of hostels, cafes, and restaurants.
Safety Tips:
Avoid the outskirts at night and always use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps.
Cuenca, Ecuado
Why it is safe
Cuenca is both a favorite city of expats and a UNESCO-listed city. It has a tranquil environment, friendly residents, and high walkability.
Colonial architecture in Parque Calderón.
Walking the Tomebamba Riverwalk.
Touring Museo Pumapungo for knowledge of indigenous history
First-time single travelers who desire less hustle and more time for cultural immersion.
Safety Tip:
Extremely low crime levels, but steer clear of empty back streets at dusk.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Why It is Safe:
Buenos Aires is cosmopolitan and lively and is regularly referred to as the “Paris of South America.” Petty theft does occur, but violent crime is uncommon in tourist destinations.
Historical elegance in San Telmo.
Café culture in Palermo Soho.
Tango performances and lively street life.
Best Areas:
Stay in Palermo, Recoleta, or Belgrano for security and convenience.
Safety TipKeep valuables out of sight, do not display your phone on busy streets, and be careful of tourist scams.
Peru’s Arequipa
Why It is Safe:
Too frequently eclipsed by Cusco or Lima, Arequipa is one of Peru’s cleanest and safest cities.
Arequipa also has friendly inhabitants as well as beautiful architecture.
The historic center’s white volcanic-stone houses.
Panoramas of El Misti Volcano.
Day trips to Colca Canyon to visit condors
Independent travelers who are interested in culture and history.
Safety Tips:
The city center is extremely safe; however, use organized tours for outings.
Florianópolis, Brazil
Why is it safe?
Dubbed “Magic Island,” Florianópolis is one of Brazil’s safest cities.
In contrast to Rio or São Paulo, it’s relaxed and low in serious crime. Surfing at Praia Mole
Sunset at Lagoa da Conceição.
Trekking Lagoinha do L
Where to Stay:
Lagoa da Conceição or Barra da Lagoa, both of these locations are lively and women-friendly.
Safety Tips: Do not leave things behind on the beach, and do not hike remote routes by yourselves.
Sucre, Bolivia
Why is it safe?
Sucre is Bolivia’s constitutional capital and one of its most pleasant and tranquil cities. Sucre has a student population due to the presence of universities and is ideally suited for learning Spanish.
Colonial-style architecture in the 25 de Mayo Plaza.
Climbing Recoleta Hill for Scenic Views.
Touring the Taraburo Market for indigenous handicrafts
Ideal For:
Budget-conscious tourists who want to take it slow and learn the language.
Safety Tips:
Sucre is safe, but take care with street food hygiene.
Bogotá (Specific Zones), Colombia
Why is it safe (with caution):
Although it
Although some of Bogotá is run-down, neighborhoods such as Chapinero, Zona Rosa, and La Candelaria are well-patrolled and tourist-friendly. Bogotá also boasts one of the best police-for-tourists programs for solo female travelers.
However,
Museo del Oro (Gold Museum).
Historic Stroll through La Candelaria.
Views from Monserrate Hill.
Where to Stay:
Chapinero Alto or the Zona G is safe, fashionable, and teeming with cafés and coworking offices.
Safety Tips:
Do not venture from tourist routes in the evening and phone for a taxi instead of hailing one from the sidewalk.
Lima (Barranco & Miraflores)
Why is it safe?
Lima’s districts of Barranco and Miraflores are trendy, seaside neighborhoods that are well-secured and perfect for solo female travelers.
Breathtaking cliff-side promenades in Mir
Bohemian feel in Barranco’s artsy
Fresh seafood and delicious local food.
Ideal For:
For solo female travelers craving both beach and city life and world-class dining.
Safety Tips:
Stay in safe neighborhoods and do not take public transportation at night.
Bonus: South America’s safest nature escapes for solo female travelers
If you prefer nature over cities, these spots are ideal for solo female travelers:
Valle de Cocora, Colombia
Home of the giant wax palm trees, ideal for safe horseback riding and hiking.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Exceptionally safe with guided tours and ecotourism lodges.
Patagonia (Argentina Remote but safe for women who enjoy hiking and being alone. Intelligent Tips for Solo Female Travelers in South America: Utilize the local ride-hailing services (DiDi, Uber, Cabify) rather than street taxis.
Join guided tours of hikes or the backcountry. Eschew public display of bling or gadgets. Remain in touch through a local SIM card or travel Wi-Fi. Let someone at home know your travel schedule. Opt for women-friendly guesthouses, reviewed hostels, or verified female hosts on Airbnb.
Best Travel Times for solo female travelers in South America Safely: Summer (December to February) for southern nations such as Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay. The dry season is from May to September in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador.
Skip major holiday periods such as Carnival in Brazil if not in a group, too massive and more difficult to get around on your own.
Closing Remarks: South America is full of color, culture, and diversity, and it is getting safer all the time for women on their own.
Whether you want to drink coffee in Santiago, dance in Buenos Aires, or hike through verdant valleys in Colombia, there’s something here for all types of solo female travelers. With careful planning and attention to awareness, you can venture forth into this fantastic continent with confidence.
The world awaits, and South America stands ready to receive you with safety and open arms. It is The safest country in South America for solo female travelers is Chile.
FAQ:
Q: What is the safest country in South America for solo female travelers?
A: Uruguay stands out as being the safest overall, then Chile and Ecuador.
Q: Is it okay to travel alone as a woman in Colombia?
A: Traveling alone as a solo female traveler in Colombia is not necessarily uncomfortable. Be careful and stick to safe areas.
Q: Should I be concerned about language barriers?
A: Spanish is the main language spoken, but simple phrases and translation apps can get you far. Locals tend to be helpful and patient.
Q: What’s better for safety, hostels or hotels?
A: Hostels with positive solo female traveler reviews and single-sex dorms can be particularly helpful. Be certain to read reviews and select verified accommodations.