Key Tips For Women Taking A Solo Trip To South America

Planning a solo trip to South America as a woman can feel overwhelming.

I get it—I avoided visiting for years because I was afraid.

Afraid of being unsafe, of not knowing where to go, of missing something important.

But eventually, I took the plunge.

And I’m so glad I did.

With the right tips, some smart planning, and a bit of courage, you can experience the magic of South America on your own terms.

Every continent has its charm, and South America is no exception.

Between the Amazon rainforest, the surreal Atacama Desert in Chile, and the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia, the natural beauty is endless.

Add to that mouthwatering cuisine, vibrant music, and rich artistic traditions, and you’ve got a region bursting with life and culture.

Sure, there are challenges, language differences, limited public transportation, and sometimes complex politics but none of these should stop you.

Here’s how to confidently plan your solo trip to South America and make the most of your adventure.

1. Where to Go: Best Countries for a Solo Trip to South America

Choosing the right destination is the first and most important decision when planning your solo travels.

The best countries for a first-time solo trip to South America include:

• Chile and Argentina – A perfect mix of natural wonders, vibrant cities, and welcoming culture.
• Peru – Ideal for foodies, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers.
• Colombia – Bursting with music, color, Caribbean beaches, and friendly locals.

These countries are use to welcoming solo travelers and offer relatively good infrastructure.

They provide great tour options and plenty of opportunities for both exploration and relaxation.

2. Use a Local Travel Agency to Take the Stress Out of Planning

On my solo trip to Argentina, I worked with a local agency called Say Hueque.

I wasn’t looking for a group tour—I just needed help organizing the logistics: routes, accommodations, transport, and recommendations I wouldn’t have found on my own.

They helped tailor my trip to fit my budget and preferences, and even introduced me to new destinations I hadn’t considered.

Best of all, they checked in with me after each transfer or arrival, which gave me peace of mind while traveling solo.

What an unexpected perk!

Their local knowledge made a world of difference to my experience.

3. Consider Organized Tours for Bucket List Experiences

If your trip includes iconic adventures—like hiking the Inca Trail in Peru or exploring the Amazon—an organized tour might be your best bet.

Tours can help with hard-to-get permits and provide structure while still allowing independence.

Many group tours now cater specifically to solo travelers, which can also help reduce costs and combat loneliness.

Look for solo-friendly tours that offer a balance of group activities and personal time.

4. Don’t Leave Transportation to Chance

Transportation in South America can be tricky.

Outside of cities like Santiago and Buenos Aires, public transit is often limited.

I always arrange airport pickups in advance or use official taxi stands.

In Argentina, my local agency booked all my transfers, which was a game-changer.

Around town, I ask hotels, restaurants, or stores to call trusted taxis.

Avoid flagging down taxis on the street, especially at night.

5. Book Day Tours to Explore and Meet People

Day tours are one of my favorite ways to explore while traveling solo in South America.

They allow you to access must-see sights—like Iguazú Falls or penguin reserves—without the stress of planning every detail.

Plus, they’re a great way to meet other travelers and enjoy some company along the way.

If you’re not using a local agency, the front desk at your hotel can be very helpful with coordinating and scheduling a day tour.

6. Choose Accommodations with Care

When traveling in Chile and for my arrival in Buenos Aires I used Booking.com and Airbnb to book hotels and an apartment.

For these occasions I do a lot of research, including:

• Reading lots and lots of reviews.
• I use TripAdvisors Traveler photos to see what the hotel really looks like.
• Use the Airbnb options with trusted hosts.
• Research transportation options and neighborhood safety.
• Prioritize well-lit, walkable areas.

There are now women-only hostels you might want to try—I haven’t used one yet, but they’re becoming more popular among solo female travelers.

7. Stay Healthy and Travel-Ready

No one wants to get sick while traveling—especially alone.

Here’s how I stay prepared:

Vaccinations

Check required and recommended vaccines for each country and region.

For example, Yellow Fever is recommended for the Amazon but not needed in cities like Lima or Cusco.

In the US, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) Traveler’s Health page is a great resource.

Medications and First-aid

I carry a small health kit with aspirin, antidiarrheals, stomach meds, and motion sickness medicine.

I also carry rehydration powders like Pedialyte or Liquid I.V., a lifesaver when I had food poisoning during a recent trip.

Bring prescription meds with original labels, and confirm they’re legal in your destination.

Not medicine, but just as essential: carry a copy of your eyeglass prescription in case of loss or damage.

Feminine hygiene supplies

If you’re staying in major cities, you can find hygiene and personal products easily.

But as you head out to rural areas or if you’re going camping or hiking, bring whatever you’ll need.

If you’re particular about the brands you use, then make sure you bring them from home.

Even familiar brands may be made locally and differ from those you’re used to.

Altitude and Water

In high-altitude regions like Cusco or the Andes, prepare for potential altitude sickness.

Drink lots of water, plan for rest, and if needed, drink the coca tea available in most hotel lobbies.

And always carry water purification tablets if you’ll be in areas where water quality is questionable.

If in doubt drink bottled water only and remember, no ice!

Travel Insurance

Don’t skip it. I never travel without it.

8. Learn the Basics of the Local Language and Culture

Another thing that goes a long way is to know important phrases in the language of the country you will visit.

In South America that is mostly Spanish.

Knowing a few basic Spanish phrases makes a huge difference. Start with:

• “Buenos días” (Good morning)
• “Por favor” (Please)
• “Gracias” (Thank you)
• “¿Habla inglés?” (Do you speak English?)
• “Necesito un taxi” (I need a taxi)

Apps like Google Translate are invaluable, but locals appreciate when you make an effort.

Learning about cultural customs also helps avoid awkward moments and shows respect.

9. Solo Female Travel Safety Tips for South America

While solo travel in South America is rewarding, staying safe is key.

Follow the same basic safety guidelines you would in any other part of the world, and you’ll be just fine.

My top tips:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
• Use hotel safes and avoid flashy jewelry or electronics.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches and where appropriate.
• Share your itinerary with someone at home.
• Use offline maps and confirm your phone plan will work or use a local SIM/eSIM.
• Trust your instincts. Always.

Following these tips has allowed me to travel across South America with confidence and joy.

You’ve Got This!

South America is a continent filled with life, color, and unforgettable experiences.

Yes, it’s different.

Yes, it can be unpredictable.

But it’s also one of the most rewarding places I’ve ever explored.

I used to let fear keep me away.

But with smart planning and the tips I’ve shared here, I’ve traveled solo through South America and felt empowered every step of the way.

And I know you can, too.

Have you taken a solo trip to South America? Or are you planning one soon?

I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or questions—leave a comment below and let’s start a conversation!