## Is it Safe to Travel to South America in 2020?
With its vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history, South America has long been a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. However, in recent years, the region has been plagued by political and economic instability, as well as rising crime rates. This has led many people to wonder whether it is still safe to travel to South America in 2020.
### The Current Situation
The political and economic situation in South America is complex and varies from country to country. In some countries, such as Venezuela and Nicaragua, there is widespread political unrest and economic collapse. In other countries, such as Peru and Colombia, the situation is more stable, but there are still concerns about crime and corruption.
The crime rate in South America is generally higher than in other parts of the world. However, most crimes are non-violent and target tourists. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in tourist areas. Violent crime, such as murder and robbery, is less common, but it does occur.
### Safety Tips
If you are planning to travel to South America, there are a few things you can do to stay safe:
Be aware of your surroundings and be cautious of people who approach you on the street.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables.
Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.
Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
Use a licensed taxi service or Uber instead of hailing a taxi on the street.
Keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place.
### Is it Safe to Travel to South America in 2020?
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your destination, your travel style, and your personal risk tolerance. If you are planning to travel to a country that is experiencing political unrest or economic collapse, you should carefully consider the risks before you go. If you are planning to travel to a more stable country, you should still be aware of the crime rate and take precautions to stay safe.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to travel to South America in 2020 is a personal one. If you are concerned about safety, you may want to consider postponing your trip until the situation in the region improves. However, if you are prepared to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, you can still have a safe and enjoyable trip to South America.
### Specific Country Advice
Here is some specific advice on safety in some of the most popular tourist destinations in South America:
Brazil: Brazil has a high crime rate, especially in major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Argentina: Argentina is a relatively safe country, but there are still some areas of Buenos Aires that should be avoided at night. Be sure to do your research before you go and be aware of the crime rate in your destination.
Peru: Peru is a popular tourist destination, but there are some areas of Lima that should be avoided at night. Be sure to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Colombia: Colombia has made great strides in reducing crime in recent years, but there are still some areas of Bogotá that should be avoided at night. Be sure to do your research before you go and be aware of the crime rate in your destination.
Ecuador: Ecuador is a relatively safe country, but there are some areas of Quito that should be avoided at night. Be sure to do your research before you go and be aware of the crime rate in your destination.
### Conclusion
South America is a beautiful and diverse region with a lot to offer travelers. However, it is important to be aware of the risks before you go. By taking precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, you can still have a safe and enjoyable trip to South America.