Travelers can feel more secure knowing that Latin American countries have established emergency response systems, but staying informed and prepared is key to a safe trip. Before you travel, review your medical insurance policy to understand what emergency services and hospital care are covered abroad. Keep your embassy or consulate contact details handy for serious situations like passport loss or legal issues.
Pharmacies are widely available, especially in major cities, many operating 24/7 or offering designated on-duty services after hours. For urgent medication needs, ask locals or hotel staff to guide you to the nearest emergency pharmacy. Tourist information centers in popular areas also provide multilingual assistance and can help direct you to medical or emergency facilities.
In addition to knowing emergency contacts, it’s vital to follow basic safety rules throughout your journey. Always stay alert, especially in crowded markets, tourist spots, and transport hubs. Keep valuables like jewelry, cameras, and electronics out of sight and use hotel safes when possible. Never leave phones or bags unattended, and avoid using your phone near roads to reduce the risk of theft. Use only trusted transportation such as reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing apps, and avoid unmarked cabs. Respect local laws and customs, travel in groups when possible, particularly at night, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
Carry any essential medications, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from sun exposure, especially in high-altitude regions where weather can change rapidly. Stay informed on weather alerts to avoid unexpected dangers, particularly when hiking or exploring remote areas.
Knowing the emergency numbers for each country is crucial. Save these on your phone or carry a written copy for quick access. Use a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device to ensure reliable communication. When calling emergency services, remain calm and clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency. Operators typically speak Spanish and often English in tourist areas.
Chile: Police – 133, Ambulance – 131
Peru: Police – 105, Ambulance – 116
Argentina: Emergency (police, fire, ambulance) – 911
Brazil: Police – 190, Ambulance – 192, Fire – 193
Keep these numbers easily accessible throughout your trip. For direct assistance from your tour operator or service provider, customer support lines are available at:
+1 (954) 787 5105
+41 55 539 18 88
Providing clear and detailed information during any emergency call ensures responders can act quickly and appropriately.
Safety conditions vary widely across Latin America, so knowing which areas are generally safe and which require extra caution is essential.
Chile:
Tourists find neighborhoods like Bellavista, Providencia, and Santiago’s city center generally safe during the day. Exercise caution after dark in some downtown parts and avoid low-income suburbs like La Pintana and El Bosque at night. Popular tourist spots like Valparaíso are mostly safe but stick to well-traveled routes. Remote hiking areas require guides and careful weather monitoring.
Argentina:
Buenos Aires neighborhoods such as Palermo, San Telmo, and Recoleta are safe by day; after dark, stay on well-lit streets. La Boca is vibrant but can be risky at night. Mendoza offers a safe and relaxed environment. Remote regions like Patagonia and the Andes demand caution due to harsh weather—always check local advice before trekking.
Peru:
Cusco and tourist districts in Lima, including Miraflores and Barranco, are generally safe, though petty theft can occur. Central Lima and other less-touristy parts require vigilance, especially at night. The Amazon and highland regions may need permits and guided tours due to their remoteness. Acclimatize properly before hiking Machu Picchu to prevent altitude sickness.
Brazil:
In major cities, use caution in areas known for higher crime rates and avoid walking alone at night. Stick to well-known neighborhoods and use trusted transport. Tourist areas are generally secure during the day but remain alert.
When calling, clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.
