Latin America is increasingly appearing on lists of desirable travel destinations — and not only thanks to its natural landscapes and vibrant culture, but also due to the improved security situation in some countries. Find out which countries in the region were ranked the safest in 2026, how the Global Peace Index is formed, and what tourists should pay attention to when planning a trip

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Intrepid travelers head to Latin America to enjoy its diverse culture, unique history, and incredible cuisine. From Mexico to Peru, the continent offers a fantastic array of experiences.

While some tourists avoid visiting major destinations due to safety concerns, many of these are simply unfounded stereotypes.

We’ve compiled a list of the safest countries in South America in 2026. Ready to travel?

Are you planning not only a trip but also a move to one of the Latin American countries? To legally reside abroad, you need to obtain a residence permit, and later citizenship. Each country has its own requirements, deadlines, and procedures.

Visit World’s “Immigration Guide” will help you navigate all the nuances and prepare for your move without unnecessary risks.

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Which countries are in Latin America?

Latin America is made up of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries in Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Thus, the region includes the following countries:

- North America: Mexico.

- Central America: Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama.

- South America: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil.

- Caribbean: Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico.

How is the safest country in Latin America analyzed?

The easiest way to measure the level of safety is to use the Global Peace Index (GPI). It uses 23 indicators, ranging from the impact of terrorism, violent crime, and political instability to funding for UN peacekeeping and military spending. The lower the score, the safer the country.

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Top 10 safest countries in Latin America in 2026

1st place – Argentina

- World ranking: 46.

- Global Peace Index: 1.768.

Argentina significantly strengthened its position in the ranking of the safest countries in Latin America in 2026. Compared to the previous report, the state rose five places, topping the list and ahead of Uruguay and Costa Rica. In addition, the country's peacefulness index increased by 3.8%.

In addition, Argentina is a more popular tourist destination in Latin America than its neighbor, thanks to its natural landscapes, which include the Andes Mountains, the Pampas grasslands and the Iguazu Falls.

Among the minuses – the country is experiencing political instability, and political demonstrations, although not very frequent, can still occur.

Fortunately, Argentina can still offer travelers from Uzbekistan, Albania, Germany, and other countries a reasonable level of safety, with petty crime and theft being the biggest risks for tourists. In addition, these crimes are concentrated around popular urban tourist areas such as Buenos Aires and Rosario.

2nd place – Uruguay

- World ranking: 48.

- Global Peace Index: 1.784.

Uruguay often ranks high in the rankings of the safest countries in Latin America. Its reputation as a politically stable country attracts tourists from the Philippines, Uzbekistan, China, and other countries, who can enjoy visiting cities and cultural centers without worrying about political demonstrations or violent events.

Uruguay also boasts the highest GDP per capita among South American countries, indicating a high level of prosperity. This creates less incentive for petty crime and theft.

Nevertheless, caution is always important. Although Uruguay is ranked in the top 10 safest countries in Latin America according to the Global Peace Index, tourists should exercise personal caution to protect their valuables. With a wealth of cultural attractions in Montevideo and natural beauty, Uruguay creates a safe and peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy the uniqueness of Latin America.

3rd place – Costa Rica

- World ranking: 54.

- Global Peace Index: 1.843.

Costa Rica, long considered a safe haven for travelers looking to explore Latin America without the added risk, continues to be one of the region’s most secure destinations. However, the country has slipped four places in the global safety ranking since last year. The likely reason for this decline was an increase in robberies in the southern regions, as well as an additional burden on state resources due to the many years of refugees from Nicaragua.

For tourists from Hong Kong, Ukraine and the Philippines, Costa Rica not only guarantees a high level of safety, but is also famous for its incredible natural beauty: tropical forests, clean beaches, volcanic hot springs and rich cultural communities. Despite the high level of security, as in any country, there is a threat of theft. So, despite the safety, tourists are advised to be careful and take care of their valuables, especially in crowded tourist areas. Costa Rica remains an ideal destination for those looking for not only adventure but also a high level of safety in Latin America.

4th place – Chile

- World ranking: 62.

- Global Peace Index: 1.899.

Chile, once considered the safest country in Latin America, suffered a slight deterioration in its Global Peace Index due to some inconsistent police reforms in 2019. However, compared to other South American countries, Chile remains a relatively safe destination for tourists from most countries in the world, including Uzbekistan, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, especially outside of urban centers.

The most serious threats relate to civil unrest in densely populated urban areas. Political protests and demonstrations are the main source of security risk. However, the vast majority of Chile's tourist attractions, including the rural areas, remain relatively peaceful and maintain the country's security.

Petty theft is concentrated mainly in large cities such as Santiago. It should be noted that the most attractive tourist destinations, such as Torres del Paine National Park, the Atacama Desert and Easter Island, remain in rural areas, providing peace and security for tourists who want to enjoy Chile's natural beauty.

5th place - Paraguay

- World ranking: 75.

- Global Peace Index: 1.981.

Although Paraguay is not as popular as its neighboring countries in Latin America, the state attracts travelers from Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Hong Kong and other countries with the lack of tourist crowds, unique attractions and a fairly high level of security. Thanks to the affordable cost of travel, everyone can enjoy authentic adventures.

However, it is important to be careful about possible petty theft, especially in big cities. By keeping valuables safe, you can avoid trouble. It is noted that traffic standards can be a challenge for those who are not used to dangerous driving tactics. In such a case, it is better to refrain from renting a car or motorbike, relying on efficient and safe public transport.

6th place – Bolivia

- World ranking: 83.

- Global Peace Index: 2.005.

Arguably the cheapest country in South America to visit, popular with tourists from Guatemala, Haiti, Singapore and elsewhere, Bolivia is ranked sixth in the 2026 ranking of the safest countries in Latin America. Although the country has experienced civil unrest, most of Bolivia’s attractions are centered around natural areas, free from the political demonstrations that can occur in more urbanized areas.

However, as with any country, there are areas in Bolivia that are best avoided, primarily the large cities of El Alto and La Paz. Like most large cities, these areas are known for their petty crime and pickpocketing, so you should be extra careful when visiting. However, when visiting less urbanized areas such as the Uyuni Salt Flats or the regions surrounding the Amazon rainforest, you shouldn’t worry too much about these crimes.

Another thing to be aware of when visiting Bolivia is the country’s militarization. While this doesn’t affect tourists, it does create a sense of insecurity and requires you to plan your routes more carefully to avoid roadblocks.

7th place – Panama

- World ranking: 84.

- Global Peace Index: 2,006. 

Panama, despite a decline in security due to civil unrest, remains a beautiful and safe destination to travel. Most political protests tend to take place in Panama City, while other tourist centers in the country remain calm. We recommend that tourists from Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and other countries travel to regions that are less prone to political turbulence, especially the San Blas Islands. There is a sense of political isolation here, creating ideal conditions for a safe and enjoyable vacation.

8th place – Peru

- World ranking: 96.

- Global Peace Index: 2.073.

In 2026, Peru showed the most noticeable progress in the ranking of the safest countries in Latin America, rising by 14 positions at once. Such dynamics are a positive signal for travelers seeking to discover the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.

The improvement in safety indicators is associated with the absence of large-scale anti-government protests, a gradual economic recovery and an intensification of the fight against drug cartels. The combination of these factors has contributed to the stabilization of the internal situation in the country.

Although the state is not yet in the top part of the rating, tourists can relatively calmly plan a trip to iconic locations such as Machu Picchu, Cusco and Paracas. At the same time, experts advise to familiarize yourself with the safer areas of the cities in advance and to follow basic rules of personal safety – as when traveling to any country in the world.

9th place – El Salvador

- Place in the world ranking: 104.

- Global Peace Index: 2.136.

El Salvador has long had a difficult reputation in the field of safety – similar to neighboring Honduras. The main reasons for this were the high level of violent crimes, in particular femicide, as well as the activity of criminal groups.

However, in recent years the situation has shown positive dynamics. In 2026, the country rose one more position in the regional safety rating. Among tourists from the Dominican Republic, Panama, Kazakhstan and other countries visiting the Pacific coast of the state, El Salvador is increasingly perceived as a relatively calm destination for recreation. According to the Global Peace Index, only 11% of citizens surveyed in 2025 said they felt unsafe in their country.

The statistics on the decrease in the murder rate are particularly telling. While in 2015 this figure was 108 cases per 100,000 population, in 2024 it decreased to 2.5 - indicating a significant improvement in the security situation.

At the same time, it is worth noting that the tough state policy to combat crime has led to a record high level of imprisonment - about 1% of the country's population is in custody. It is these radical measures that many experts consider to be a key factor in the sharp drop in the level of violent crime.

10th place – Guatemala

- World ranking: 108.

- Global Peace Index: 2.174.

Guatemala has relatively recently appeared on the list of the 10 safest countries in Latin America, but in recent years it has managed not only to consolidate its position in the ranking, but also to maintain its position after the next update of the Global Peace Index.

The positive dynamics are especially noticeable in the murder statistics: since 2009, a steady trend towards a decrease in this indicator has been recorded. At the same time, the country still faces the problem of femicides, which most often occur within the framework of family or domestic conflicts.

For travelers, this means the need to remain vigilant, especially in large cities and tourist-active areas. However, outside the megacities, the atmosphere is usually calmer, and most tourists do not experience excessive tension during their trip.

What dangers in Latin American countries scare foreigners?

Latin America is much safer than most tourists think. Traveling here does not mean that a few minutes after arriving at the Mexican airport you will fall into the hands of the fearsome cartels. However, certain threats still exist:

- Violence is a problem in some regions. However, such situations usually occur in separate areas and often between locals who are involved in criminal activities. Tourists are rarely victims of violence.

- Robbery. The biggest threat to tourists in Latin American countries. However, if you follow general safety measures, the risk is minimal.

- Political instability. Another important danger to be aware of. This is a region where things can change quickly without warning. Therefore, it is better to avoid traveling here during election periods.

- Wildlife. A threat not only to tourists, but also to local residents. Mosquitoes are probably the biggest danger, considering the diseases they carry and how widespread they are. There are many dangerous creatures, such as jaguars, crocodiles, snakes, poisonous frogs and deadly spiders. On the positive side, they are extremely rare.

How to stay safe when traveling in Latin America?

Latin America is a region that requires a little more precautions than, for example, traveling in Europe. Here are some tips to protect yourself from some of the main threats in this wonderful part of the world:

- Don’t go out alone at night.

- Use Uber or similar apps instead of street taxis.

- Don’t take your phone out of your pocket on the street at any time of the day.

- If you need to use your phone in a big city, go to the nearest store, cafe or restaurant.

- Drug use is strictly prohibited, and you should also be careful with alcohol.

- Wear long clothes, use special sprays and sleep under a mosquito net to avoid mosquito bites.

- Avoid contact with fresh water sources, it is better to swim in the sea or a chlorinated pool.

- Inform your loved ones about your location and plans.

Latin America is a truly fantastic region that will give you many pleasant experiences, so be sure to visit these countries, but follow all safety rules.

If, after getting acquainted with the safest countries in Latin America, you are thinking not only about traveling, but also about moving to Argentina, Uruguay or Costa Rica, it is important to study the immigration rules in advance. Each country has its own requirements for applicants, a list of documents, processing times and financial conditions for obtaining a residence permit or citizenship.

Visit World’s “Immigration Guide” includes step-by-step instructions on how to apply for temporary and permanent residence, a full list of documents, current costs of procedures, requirements for applicants, rules for filling out questionnaires, and even practical advice for comfortable adaptation in a new country. All information is sent in a convenient PDF format to your email.

Plan your future with confidence – choose a country and order the “Immigration Guide” now.

Reminder! In 2026, travel safety will become one of the main criteria for choosing a destination for travelers. We have already told you where it is safe to travel in different regions of the world.

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