Planning your tour of Latin America? Do you want to see the most beautiful places and monuments in Latin America, but don’t want to pass through the most dangerous countries? It’s true that some countries can be scary. According to the index of the most dangerous countries in South America, Venezuela and Colombia are considered the most dangerous countries for expatriates. We recommend that you take out health insurance for all Latin American countries, as your country’s social security system will certainly not cover all your local medical expenses.
Is Venezuela a risky country?
It is currently the riskiest country in South America for expatriates. The type of risk is violence and delinquency. Be particularly vigilant in the following areas: Cumana (Paria and Araya), the Paraguana peninsula, the entrance to Maracaibo lagoon, Margarita island and Los Testigos island. When traveling in Venezuela, you should also be careful when moving around the western districts and the center of the capital Caracas, by far the most dangerous city in the country. Faced with these challenges, robust international medical coverage is becoming essential, covering not only urgent medical care but also medical repatriation in cases of extreme need.
How safe is Colombia?
Despite its breathtaking scenery, Colombia presents risks linked to violence, crime and even earthquakes. The regions of Bogota East, Medellin North/West, Cali, Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Leticia require increased vigilance. We also advise you to avoid rural areas due to persistent guerrilla activity. Health cover for Colombia offers an extra layer of security, covering unforeseen medical and security issues.
Precautions to take in Brazil
Travelling in Brazil requires specific precautions to avoid theft and assault. It’s advisable not to show any outward signs of wealth, and to limit the amount of money and bank cards you carry. Certain areas, particularly in big cities and favelas, present a higher risk of crime. Tourists need to be on their guard against pickpockets and financial fraud. Nevertheless, by following these safety tips, you’ll be able to enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer in complete peace of mind.
Keep in mind the importance of foresight. Whatever the reason for your stay and however long it lasts, you are exposed to the risk of accidents and illnesses, due to changes in climate and environment. So take out health insurance for Brazil to preserve your well-being and protect your finances.
Is it dangerous to go to the Caribbean?
Generally speaking, many Caribbean countries are perceived as relatively calm and safe for foreigners, with low levels of crime and violence. However, there are exceptions, where certain regions have a high crime rate, often linked to drug trafficking, burglaries and petty and serious organized crime. The distribution of these safety problems can vary significantly from one locality to another. For example, Trinidad and Tobago ranks 93rd out of 161 countries on the 2018 Global Peace Index, illustrating the diversity of security situations within the region itself.
Some areas, particularly in the capital, can be dangerous, with frequent incidents of sexual assault, gang violence and theft in various communities. Avoid the country’s isolated beaches to reduce security risks. And don’t forget to take out international health insurance before you leave!
What risks do foreigners run in Paraguay?
A trip to Paraguay is an exceptional experience, whether to explore its diversity, history, atmosphere or culture. Paraguay has a history of political instability and high crime rates. The big cities are generally safe, with mostly non-violent crime, although violence has increased recently. In the event of assault by armed criminals, resisting is not advisable. Snatching, pickpocketing and jewelry theft are common. To minimize risk, avoid wearing expensive jewelry, carrying a lot of cash or displaying expensive gadgets. To guard against financial fraud, use only recognized exchange offices and avoid high-risk areas such as Asuncion and Salto del Guairá.
Safety risks in Bolivia
Bolivia, famous for its breathtaking landscapes such as Lake Titicaca and its subtropical valleys, presents specific risks for residents and visitors alike. Theft of personal property in public spaces is frequent, as is domestic violence and crime in nightclubs. Be vigilant, especially in densely populated areas, and watch out for credit card theft. La Paz is particularly at risk from political violence and demonstrations. This situation also extends to Santa Cruz and Cochabamba. If you plan to visit these regions, make sure you have medical coverage for Bolivia.
Depending on your country of origin and departure, you may be more or less sensitive to climatic variations. What’s more, travel accidents are not uncommon, and local food may not be suitable for everyone. International health insurance is essential to guarantee protection in all situations.
