South America gains notoriety in the news with reports of protests and drug traffickers, but United States citizens can travel safely to many of its countries. Every year, the not-for-profit Institute for Economics and Peace compiles a Global Peace Index, ranking countries worldwide based on their relations with neighboring countries, and citizens' levels of education and well-being. Several South American countries score relatively high on the index.


Chile is among the safest countries in South America, according to the Global Peace Index. The U.S. State Department says the country is politically stable with a low threat of terrorist activity. Travelers should be careful of potential small explosives that protesters or anarchists place at ATMs, but the State Department says that as of March 2011 this practice has resulted in "few or no injuries." To stay safe, avoid ATMs and instead exchange money in banks. Sometimes people peacefully demonstrate on Easter Island, but these protests have caused only minor travel disruptions.


The democratic country of Uruguay sits on the eastern edge of South America. It boasts an educated middle class and a burgeoning economy. The State Department reports that people regularly protest in Uruguay, and these protests sometimes involve anti-American sentiments and American citizens are encouraged to either walk the other way or enter a restaurant or store until the demonstration ends. Visitors should take care to avoid mosquito bites because of concerns about dengue fever, a virus that results in a high fever and rash. The fever lasts for roughly one week, and people recover with adequate rest and fluid intake, according to the National Institutes of Health. No treatment is available. Visitors to Uruguay should also consider hepatitis A vaccinations before arrival.


Citizens sometimes demonstrate in Argentina but travelers typically can explore the country safely, although they should remain alert to petty thieves. Demonstrations typically are peaceful but might block streets or otherwise cause delays. The State Department advises tourists to be careful because people tend to drive very fast and ignore traffic laws. Many visitors travel to Argentina to explore its wilderness, but remote areas can make rescue difficult if not impossible. U.S. citizens have died while mountain climbing and skiing. The State Department urges precautions such as checking the local weather before departing, informing park authorities of itineraries and reporting missing or injured travelers as quickly as possible so that authorities can search for them.


Paraguay generally is safe but visitors should take care when traveling in border areas because of issues related to drug trafficking and militant groups. Crime levels have increased over the past few years, the State Department reported in 2010. The department recommends that visitors refrain from wearing expensive jewelry, flashing expensive cameras or carrying a lot of money. Pickpockets frequent cities, so travelers might opt to place valuables in their luggage or strap money to their waist. Crime victims should contact both the U.S. embassy and local police.

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