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This passage discusses some of the safest countries to visit in Latin America, a region known for its natural beauty and rich history. From stunning beaches to breathtaking landscapes, Latin America offers travelers an abundance of attractions and experiences regardless of their interests.

With its remarkable wildlife and biodiversity,

We have traveled extensively across Latin America, finding some places more appealing than others. Costa Rica consistently ranks among my favorites. It is viewed as the safest country in the region and rightfully so. Costa Rica captivates with its richness in flora and fauna. I also admire Cuba for its historical significance as well as Chile, which amazes with its stark contrasts of glacial landscapes in the south and arid deserts in the north.

While these are some of the safest Latin American nations, you should always keep in mind that unforeseen events, health issues, or incidents like theft can arise anywhere. That’s why I recommend traveling with comprehensive travel coverage. We’ve been utilizing Heymondo travel insurance for years, and they’ve consistently provided excellent support whenever we’ve needed it. If you decide to opt for them too, ensure to use our Heymondo discount code.

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Now, let’s delve deeper into additional safe Latin American nations that offer an enjoyable travel experience. To compile this list, we’ve not only considered our own encounters but also consulted the Vision of Humanity statistics website, which evaluates each country’s safety by taking into account violent criminal offenses in proportion to its population. A lower score on the Vision of Humanity scale signifies a safer destination. So, without further mention, let’s examine which is the safest Latin American country.

1. Costa Rica, the safest country in Latin America

♦ Overall score of 1.73 out of 5

Costa Rica is among the top places to visit in Central America, and understandably so. Costa Rica is not only the safest Latin American nation but also full of attractions.

There are many activities to partake in Costa Rica, initiating with San José, its capital. You can take this complimentary tour that will introduce you to the city’s history and traditions.

However, if you plan on traveling to Costa Rica, you`ll discover many other attractions worth exploring due to its diverse natural wonders. Its volcanoes, particularly the Poás Volcano, represent must-see spots situated near the capital city. I suggest this tour which starts from San José and also includes a visit to the Catataras de la Paz, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. The country also contains incredible national parks, like the Manuel Antonio National Park providing picturesque beaches and biodiversity that are hard to match elsewhere based on my experience. To fully appreciate the hidden wildlife in this tropical rainforest, I recommend exploring it with an expert on this guided tour.

a boat traveling through a forest filled with trees

I also highly recommend exploring the Marino Ballena National Park. Here, you can unwind on striking beaches, immerse yourself in tropical forests, and even join a whale-watching tour.

Costa Rica’s low rate of crime explains its reputation as one of the safest countries in Latin America. As a visitor, I assure you that you will not have any safety concerns here. Nonetheless, I still recommend keeping an eye on your personal belongings, particularly in urban areas.

While the country is one of the safest Latin American nations to travel to, I still advise investing in one of the best travel protection picks for Costa Rica. This way, you’ll have peace of mind in case any unexpected incidents occur during your journey.

To learn more about the safest country in Latin America, check out our guide below:

  • Recommended accommodations:

There are many locations to remain in Costa Rica, but here are my favored hotels:

2. Chile, another one of the safest countries in Latin America to visit

♦ Overall rating of 1.87/5

Chile is renowned for having considered one of the most secure nations in Latin America. This beautiful land boasts landscapes that frequently seem otherworldly. Annually, we coordinate photography trips in Chile, such as an Atacama & Uyuni photo trip, and a Patagonia photo trip. So, you probably can infer how much we adore this country.

When touring Chile, making time to explore Santiago de Chile, the capital city acclaimed as one of the safest in Latin America, is worthwhile. Kick off your trip with this complimentary tour highlighting key attractions like the Plaza de las Armas,Central Post Office of Santiago, and Metropolitan Cathedral, among other landmarks. For a multi-day Santiago experience, consider this excursion into the scenic Cajón de Maipo gorge region.

I also suggest exploring the lively city of Valparaíso, renowned for its abundant culture and history. Join this complimentary tour if you want to discover the main attractions with an erudite guide. Valparaíso is also famous for its wines, so if you want to savor Chile`s finest wines, you can enroll in this excursion. This extensive tour covers Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, also featuring wine tasting at Viña Indómita in the Casablanca Valley.

a mountain range with mountains and mountains

Another destination I suggest exploring is San Pedro de Atacama, renowned for the El Tatio geysers, Piedras Rojas, and the Salar de Atacama. These locales offer some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the country. Consider taking this excursion to tour the Piedras Rojas and the Salar de Atacama. You can also join this tour to witness the geysers at their finest. San Pedro de Atacama is a prime place for tourists thanks to its incredible night skies. So, if our photography tour appears a touch challenging, you can enjoy this night skies tour.

Lastly, a visit to Torres del Paine in the Chilean Patagonia region is essential. Don`t pass up the chance to join this excursion from Puerto Natales and spend a full day exploring one of the country`s most beautiful natural parks, as well as enjoying its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. On our photography tourin this area, we even have a puma tracking day, so be sure to join us if interested.

In my view, Chile stands out not only as one of the safest places to visit in Latin America, but also as one of the safer nations in South America. You will discover countless sights and experiences in Chile, exploring every corner with complete peace of mind thanks to the low crime.

3. Panama, the safest Latin American country with dreamy beaches

♦ Overall score of 1.94 out of 5

Panama, one of the safest places to visit in Latin America, is also considered among the safest countries in Central America. Beyond its famous canal, this nation offers beautiful tropical beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, and abundant natural beauty.

A fascinating destination which ought to be high on one`s list is a visit to the iconic Panama Canal, one of Panama`s most notable landmarks. This 50-mile waterway has considerable historical significance and is surrounded by intriguing stories. One can participate in this tour to delve deeper into the fascinating narratives and legends associated with it. Alternatively, if one wishes to experience transiting through the canal firsthand, one can join this boat cruise and visit landmarks like the Miraflores Locks,Pedro Miguel Locks, and the Bridge of the Americas.

A rain protection item (Matt appreciates his Outdoor Research rain jacket – a Seattle company!), a pair of waterproof hiking footwear (Alysha has these waterproof hiking boots, which are a great first pair of hiking boots), and layers (we like the fleece and puffy jacket combination) will be your best friends in the mountains.

a small boat floating on top of a sandy beach

Another location you surely won`t want to miss is the Barú Volcano, the highest volcano in the nation. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you can hike the Quetzal Trail through Barú Volcano National Park and appreciate lush rainforests and jungles. This trail also connects Cerro Punta with Boquete, two charming towns located in the western highlands of Panama.

Coíba Island is a World Heritage Site, renowned as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the Pacific. And if you enjoy surfing, make sure to visit Santa Catalina.

One highlight of your journey should undoubtedly be the San Blas Islands, a true tropical paradise where you can live an experience reminiscent of the indigenous Kuna people. To arrive here, you can take this excursion, including an exciting tour along the Panama coastline. Here, you’ll find beautiful rustic wooden lodgings by the sea, but there is no electricity, Internet, or running water available. Despite these conditions, the experience is unparalleled. The dramatic difference between Panama City with its tall buildings, museums, restaurants, and shops, and San Blas Islands’ relaxing atmosphere is truly striking.

Panama, in addition to being one of the safer nations in Latin America, is also a natural paradise that deserves a place on your travel wish list.

4. Uruguay, the safest country in Latin America to visit for history

♦ Overall rating of 1.80/5

Uruguay, seen as one of Latin America`s safest places to visit, boasts exceptionally gorgeous scenery as well.

You are able to start your journey through this attractive nation from its capital Montevideo. Here, you’ll gain a lot of knowledge about the country’s history, culture, and tradition through observing its architecture, monuments, squares, and streets. To receive a fantastic introduction to the city and its historic center, I propose starting with this complimentary guided tour. If you’re seeking a more comprehensive exploration, think about booking this half-day tour. From Montevideo, you can also go on an excursion to Punta del Este which is widely known for its idyllic beaches, particularly Playa Mansa, famous for the iconic sculpture of “La Mano” (The Hand) emerging from the sands of Punta del Este.

a tall tower with a clock on top of it

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If you’re seeking a more relaxing experience, be sure to visit Cabo Polonio, a remote village without electricity or Internet access, surrounded by pristine natural surroundings and untamed wildlife. Another option is exploring Punta del Diablo, a small fishing town with an ideal setting for surfing and other water activities. Finally, to re-energize, you can head to some of the country’s renowned natural hot springs, such as the Daymán Hot Springs or the Arapey Hot Springs.

Uruguay is undeniably one of the Latin American nations that is known for its safety, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. With its exceptional natural beauty and low crime statistics, Uruguay is one of the top locations in Latin America to explore.

5. Argentina, one of the most beautiful and safest Latin American countries

♦ Overall rating of 1.84/5

Argentina is recognized as one of the most spectacular and secure nations in Latin America, presenting an ideal option for a trip with friends, family, or as a couple.

With numerous intriguing things to do in Argentina, a minimum of two weeks is required to explore its main attractions.

I also suggest exploring Mendoza, especially if you delight in sampling top wines in a city with a long history of winemaking. You can even embark on this winery tour and taste the finest Argentinian wines in one of the most scenic parts of the nation. I also advise taking a complimentary guided tour to get to know the various attractions of Mendoza. And if you’re seeking a more exciting adventure, think about an excursion to the Andes to witness the majestic Aconcagua mountain.

an aerial view of a hillside with mountains

Another location I am quite fond of is Calafate, one of the most secure places in Latin America. This stunning town is found on the southern border of Lago Argentino and acts as an entry point to Los Glaciares National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier. If you want to make the most of your time here, be certain to book this excursion which permits an optional boat cruise. If you’re an avid hiker, head to El Chaltén, renowned as the national capital of trekking, providing multiple paths amid breathtaking natural scenery. In fact, it is so gorgeous that we were required to feature it in our Patagonia photography tour.

Another destination that deserves a visit is San Carlos de Bariloche. I advise starting your exploration with this guided sightseeingto fully appreciate the scenic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi and learn about the city’s history, which was once a refuge for many people from Germany. An additional excellent choice is booking the scenic tour of the seven lakes, which involves visiting Correntoso,Espejo,Escondido,Villarino,Falkner,Hermoso, and Machónico Lakes. Afterwards, you can freely explore the Arrayanes forest by yourself, head to the majestic Cerro Tronador, and take pleasure in the abundant nature surrounding this charming town. And don’t neglect to refuel with the local favorite—chocolate, a beloved treat in this area.

Relying on your available free time, you can choose to embark on this 5-day itinerary visiting Iguazú Fallsto witness one of the seven natural wonders of the earth. Another choice is Salta, a city surrounded by striking mountain scenery. To explore this place, you could participate in this full-day tourto experience its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic attractions.

Argentina is undeniably one of the best places to explore in South America. As one of the most stable Latin American nations, it offers a remarkable combination of awe-inspiring natural beauty and impressive history. So, I assure you that you’ll have a memorable experience.

6. Cuba, a safe Latin American country with unique attractions

♦ Overall score of 2.10 out of 5

I propose starting your exploration in the heart of Havana. For instance, you can participate in this complimentary guided tour of colonial Havanaas an engaging introduction to the city. If you want something more comprehensive, consider booking this guided tour. Havana is one of the most significant cities in Cuba, where you can find many interesting things to do. Some of the main attractions include the iconic Malecón de La Habana, the Museum of the Revolution, and the magnificent Christ of Havana.

Another choice is to take part in this three-hour Gossip Girl bus tour around the Upper East Side, led by a local actress from NYC. See the Empire Hotel, Constance Billard, St. Jude’s, and the Vera Wang boutique where Blair bought her wedding dress. The tour also incorporates a photo opp at the Met Steps and a stop by the Henri Bendel shop frequented by Blair and Serenaa number of cars parked in front of a building

From there, one is able to head to Varadero to appreciate its magnificent beauty and white sandy beaches. The charming city of Trinidad with its cobblestone streets dating to colonial times can also be visited, or Cienfuegosexplored to learn about its fascinating historic past. I suggest taking a two-day tour of Trinidad and Cienfuegos from Havana to become better acquainted with both locales in more depth.

For more in-depth information on attractions and activities in Cuba, check out our dedicated guide.

While Cuba is among the safest Latin American nations to explore, it’s always prudent to purchase good travel insurance. In fact, I’d advise obtaining travel insurance whenever you investigate any country in Latin America. This way, you will be protected in case any unforeseen circumstance occurs. Feel free to examine our guide on the .

  • Recommended accommodations:
    • Hotel Nacional de Cuba – an iconic 1930s hotel with fantastic views of Havana and its surrounding area.
    • Casas particulares: These are spaces or lodgings for rent in the homes of Cuban families. I’d recommend finding one in each city you plan to visit, like Trinidad and Viñales, to truly experience the authentic Cuban culture firsthand.

Is it safe to travel to Latin America?

These were some of Latin America’s countries with impressively low crime rates. So, when you visit these locations, you can do so without worry because they have exceptionally minimal safety issues. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or your significant other, you won’t encounter major security concerns.

However, one must always apply caution when traveling. it is important to constantly monitor your belongings and valuables, just as you would anywhere else in the world. While most parts of Latin America tend to be risk-free, thefts can potentially occur, and it is better to be prepared. You should also avoid areas that may involve more conflict, especially at nighttime.

We have travelled through Latin America on several events, and I can assure you that we’ve never had any problems. The local people are incredibly friendly and helpful, and we’ve never felt like we were in any form of danger during our travels.

Tips for traveling safely through Latin America

Now that you’re aware of the safest places to travel in Latin America, I’ll leave you some tips to help you enjoy a trouble-free and unforgettable trip:

It’s always wise to have travel coverage. That way, you’ll be protected in case of any unforeseen issues. We’ve been utilizing Heymondotravel insurance for years, and their quick and expert reactions have been a lifesaver for us on several occasions. They even have a medical assistance team to answer your questions. I recall a time in Costa Rica when I got food poisoning, and Heymondo took care of everything right from the start.

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.with all medical bills paid upfront!
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An additional recommendation is to avoid carrying excessive cash. It`s not only a matter of potential theft but also the possibility of accidentally misplacing funds. I suggest obtaining one of the highly-rated no foreign transaction fee credit cards, offering not only security but also savings on currency exchange rates.

Even when you travel to the safest cities in Central America, it’s a good idea to have tracking devices like Airtagson your baggage. This way, you can keep tabs on them, particularly if you decide to leave them in luggage storage for a period of time.

Another vital consideration is staying connected. Having Internet availability during travel enables your loved ones to remain informed about your whereabouts and plans. We use Holafly eSIM cards, which provide endless data for most nations at a reasonable cost. So, to remain linked, I strongly propose Holafly’s eSIMs. And don`t forget to use our code for a savings on Holafly.

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Lastly, utilize your practical judgmentand rely on your intuitive feelings. Do not place yourself in circumstances you deem risky, and steer clear of locations that cause you to feel unsafe.

And now, you’re ready to discover the most stable Latin American countries, so I hope you have a marvelous journey. If you have any questions or want to share your experience traveling to any of the safest places in Latin America, you can leave me a comment below. I will be pleased to hear from you!

Take pleasure in your adventures in Latin America!