Famous for its beautiful beaches, natural and historical attractions, happy people and amazing food, South America is the ultimate bucket list destination.
However, traveling here is not always a party. As many countries are struggling economically, it’s important to be aware that the continent doesn’t always have the best reputation when it comes to safety. As a female traveling solo, saying you’re going to South America usually invokes reactions like “By yourself?” and “Is that safe?”
But the reality reveals a different picture. The backpacker trail through South America is full of solo female travelers, happily making their way through across the continent.
Naturally there are a number of things one does need to take into account as a woman traveling anywhere alone, and South America certainly has its own issues to look out for as a solo female traveller.
Facing Machismo
The biggest hassle you face as a woman traveling in South America is the machista culture. Machismo is unfortunately still going strong in Latin America. Not that it’s not happening elsewhere in the world, but the catcalls and whistles on the Latin streets can be overwhelming, even though the level of harassment varies between countries.
In Argentina, there are the chamuyeros (smooth talkers), whose piropos (flirtatious comments), traditionally were poetic, but their modern forms tend to be more crude. Colombia has unfortunately gained a reputation of harassment on buses in Bogotá, although the city government has been running a number of campaigns to combat this.
There are signs that things are improving though. Peru has recently cracked down on street harassment with a viral campaign and new penalties for anyone found guilty of any kind of sexual harassment.
What can you do? Unfortunately not much. The best approach is to ignore it. Making eye contact is often seen as an invitation.
Going Out Solo
Heading out by yourself to a bar or even a restaurant? While no one would blink an eye at this in your home country, it’s a bit different in South America. Don’t expect liberal attitudes everywhere as there are differing cultural attitudes to a woman going out at night by herself.
In Argentina it is perfectly normal to head out alone as a woman. However, despite the image you might have of Brazil as a sexually free and liberal destination, it is not common to go out alone as a woman in places like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, due to an underlying conservatism.
The other thing you’ll notice while out is the dress code. In Colombia you can show some skin with confidence, as local women dress sexily. Moreover in the clubs of Colombia and Brazil, women tend to dress up. In countries like Chile, Peru and Bolivia, women dress more conservatively, while in Argentina, the dress code is a lot more relaxed.
What can you do? Throw caution to the wind and take yourself out for a meal. But if you’re hitting a club, it’s usually best to go with others. Gather up a group from your hostel to hit up the famous Mariscal nightlife in Quito, Ecuador, or join a nightlife tour like a party bus tour in Cartagena, Colombia.
Attitudes towards Solo Female Travelers
Despite the steady stream of travelers traipsing across the continent, you will still encounter surprise that you’re a woman traveling alone. One reason for this attitude is that it is not as common for South American women to travel by themselves, as it is in places like Europe. So be ready to field questions about your travels.
Listen to your Intuition
Use your gut instincts (and solid research) to stay safe. If you feel an area or situation isn’t quite right, get out of there. Remember that not every city and country is equal. For example, you need to be much more aware of your personal safety in Quito or Rio de Janeiro than in Santiago or Montevideo.
Another great way to stay safe while also gaining a new experience is to book a tour in your destination. A tour can be a good way to visit an area you might not feel comfortable exploring on your own, plus it’s an excellent opportunity to make new friends on your travels.
Most importantly don’t let anyone put you off traveling by yourself as a women in South America. The continent is a great place for savvy independent travelers looking to experience new things.
Written by: Nicole Eberhard, Content Editor for Daytours4u. Daytours4u specialises in memorable travel experiences for independent travelers in Latin America. Destinations include Colombia, Argentina and Rio de Janeiro.