Traveling Safely Through Latin America: What You Need to Know

Latin America is one of the most fascinating regions on the planet. From the Amazon jungles of Brazil to the Mayan ruins of Mexico, through the coffee landscapes of Colombia, this region offers a cultural and natural richness that few places can match. However, as a responsible traveler, it is important to learn about the necessary safety measures to enjoy each destination without setbacks.

This guide does not intend to scare anyone but to empower travelers with practical information so that every experience in Latin America is memorable for the right reasons.

Safety in Colombia

Colombia has undergone an extraordinary transformation over the last two decades. Cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Pereira are today vibrant tourist destinations and generally safe for visitors. However, it is important to take certain precautions:

  • Avoid non-recommended areas: Every city has neighborhoods where it is better not to venture, especially at night. Research beforehand on platforms like Encontrable to identify the safest and most recommended areas
  • Use safe transportation: Prefer ride-hailing apps over street taxis, especially in Bogotá and other large cities
  • Do not flaunt valuables: Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or showing expensive electronic devices on the street
  • Stay in known tourist areas: La Candelaria in Bogotá, El Poblado in Medellín, and the Circunvalar area in Pereira are generally safe and well-monitored zones

Safety in Brazil

Brazil is a country of enormous contrasts, and safety varies significantly from one area to another. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are vibrant metropolises where most tourists have positive experiences, but they require extra attention:

  • In Rio de Janeiro: Avoid going up to favelas without a certified local guide. Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are generally safe during the day, but be careful with your belongings
  • In São Paulo: The historic center can be problematic at night. Neighborhoods like Vila Madalena, Jardins, and Itaim Bibi are safer options for accommodation
  • During Carnival: Crowds increase the risk of pickpockets. Carry only the essentials and keep your belongings close to your body

Safety in Mexico

Mexico is an enormous country with very different safety levels depending on the region. Major tourist destinations like Mexico City, Cancún, Oaxaca, and Playa del Carmen have robust tourist infrastructure:

  • Mexico City: The areas of Condesa, Roma, Polanco, and Coyoacán are safe and full of life. Avoid public transportation very late at night
  • Riviera Maya: Cancún and Playa del Carmen are generally safe in the hotel zones. Stay in established tourist areas
  • Oaxaca: One of the safest cities in Mexico and a cultural treasure. Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity

General Safety Tips for the Entire Region

  1. Get comprehensive travel insurance: Do not travel without insurance. Insurance covering medical emergencies, theft, and cancellations is essential. Medical costs without insurance can be devastating
  2. Register your trip with your embassy: Many countries offer online traveler registration. This facilitates consular assistance in case of emergency
  3. Share your itinerary: Keep family or friends informed about where you will be. Share your location in real time using messaging apps
  4. Store money in different places: Do not carry all your cash in one place. Distribute money between your luggage, pockets, and a travel belt
  5. Learn emergency numbers: In Colombia it is 123, in Brazil 190 (police) and 192 (ambulance), in Mexico 911
  6. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun: The tropical climate can be deceiving. Dehydration and sunburn are common problems that ruin trips
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, Latin America received more than 75 million international tourists in 2024, with a security incident rate significantly lower than 0.5% among visitors who followed basic safety recommendations.

Technology at the Service of Your Safety

Technology can be your best ally for traveling safely:

  • Offline map apps: Download maps before leaving so you do not lose orientation if you lose your internet connection
  • Encontrable: Use Encontrable to find verified establishments, recommended areas, and safe experiences at each Latin American destination
  • VPN: Protect your data when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks at airports, hotels, and cafés
  • Digital copies: Photograph all your important documents and store them in the cloud

Health and Vaccines

Before traveling to Latin America, consult with your doctor about recommended vaccines. Yellow fever is recommended for jungle areas of Colombia and Brazil. Dengue and Zika are risks in tropical areas, so bring mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing at dusk.

The Reality: Latin America Awaits You

It is important to put in perspective that millions of travelers tour Latin America every year without any issues. With the right precautions, this region offers some of the most authentic, warm, and enriching experiences in the world. Do not let fear prevent you from discovering the magic of these countries.

For more information on how to plan a safe trip, explore our travel articles and check the guides section where you will find detailed information about each destination. If you want to leverage technology to travel smarter, we also have resources for you.