Do’s & Don’t’s in South America! Solo Female backpacker

Is it safe to travel in South America as a Woman?

So your Solo female and want to travel south America? First some background, South America’s has a bad reputation in terms of safety and not all is unfounded! There is plenty of  terrible stories about violence, although theft scams are more common!

It’s true parts of the continent are dangerous for backpackers. But, the vast majority places you’ll likely visit when you’re traveling around South America is generally safe. Fear of Harassment can be a worry for alot of women. However, if you know the Do’s and Don’ts while your there your trip will be alot more enjoyable and a whole lot safer!

Here is some quick advice and info on an experience from a Blonde Backpacker – (Source LonleyPlanet)

(Jorge Daniel Barchi): 

 “I travelled in Argentina for a month a couple of months ago. I am a cautious traveler, and I had no safety issues and never felt uneasy. The harassment by men on the streets was very low. Most men paid me no attention, only a few comments here and there as I walked by, and no hissing. I was surprised and relieved. “

Here thoughts were harassment can be more prevalent in Peru.

“Women get hassled more in Bolivia and Peru than in Argentina. Ignore it. I cannot say any more than that. You cannot stop it so just pretend you have not heard and keep going. If you are actually face to face with an unwanted conversation, politely but firmly ask the man to go away. If he does not ( he will probably express astonishment that you are offended ) move away yourself, if possible towards a family or older woman. “

Generally, thefts are the big biggest issue, so it helps to know what to Do and what to Don’t do in order to reduce your chances of being targeted! Can having blonde hair cause you to be targeted? Check out this great article to discover if so. Blonde in South America, Am I Safe?

Scams to Avoid in South America.

The Bird Poop Scam. (Ewww indeed!)

That’s correct, there is a scam involving bird “poop”. Here’s how it goes you are backpacking along enjoying your day looking touristy and like a perfect Target. Then suddenly you will feel aload of  bird droppings or even mustard fall on you! Then a “do gooder” shows up offering to help, while his accomplish steals your belongings.

The Cash Find Scam

This involves a pile of cash being ‘found’ on the street, whereby the good samaritan tries to return it to you! Meanwhile during the drama, your actual cash is stolen!

The Plain Clothes officer Scam 

There have even been stories of “Fake” police issuing ‘on-the-spot fines’ . Be especially wary if one or more ‘plainclothes’ cops demand to search your luggage or examine your documents, traveler’s checks or cash. Insist that you will allow this only at an official police station or in the presence of a uniformed officer, and don’t allow anyone to take you anywhere in a taxi or unmarked car. Thieves often work in pairs to distract you while lifting your wallet.  Stay alert, if in doubt attract attention and retreat to nearby public place such as reputable restaurant where you have witnesses and people who can confirm in Spanish.

South America Do’s & Don’ts: Solo Female Guide

1. Don’t – Travel with valuables such as jewellery.

Leave your bracelets, necklaces, expensive earring and watches in a safe place like hotel the safe!

2. Don’t – Photograph locals without permission.

3. Don’t – Be offended if a South American stands too close while talking.

It part of their culture. But still try and keep your personal space without offending. Really be aware of this important one, on our list of Do’s and Don’ts.

4. Don’t  – Accept drinks from strangers. Deny respectfully.

5. Don’t – Take public transport unless absolutely necessary!

Especially buses and train on lonely secluded routes.  These are very common places to  get mugged. Call taxi, if you can through a hotel or nearby restaurant.

5. Don’t – Carry too much cash.

If you are going out for a trip, just carry enough cash to cover daily expenses and your credit card.

6. Don’t – Take unlicensed taxis  

Taxi’s with a red and white taxi sign on the windscreen. Take licensed yellow taxis. If no meter is on, negotiate fares before moving or getting in.

7. Don’t – Feel offended if you are referred as “Gringo”

That is a common phrase for tourists. Dario has a great post on What I learned Solo Traveling. and Solo Travel in your 20s.

8. Don’t – Be nude at beaches or in tourist spots.