South America- how safe is it for travellers?

Question

Im a single female traveller who likes to adventure abroad each year!!! Ive recently heard some horror stories about severe sexual assualts on women in the Peru/ Ecuador area (where i am travelling!) Are there any strategies i should know of whilst travelling in these countries? I am travelling alone but fortunately have booked a tour during the duration of my stay. Thanks!!!

Answer 1

Brave lady...as always stay with your group and if staying in single rooms make sure security is good.  Take along a door alarm to hang on your door.  Never order room service unless you can see who is on the other side of the door.  I would advise against room service since it give access to your quarters. Before you go out each day make sure you divide your cash so you never show large amounts of  cash and do not show too many credit cards...mostly visa...AMEX means you have money and its not as readily accepted unless checks..  

Locally you can purchase pepper spray...make sure you dispose of it before boarding a plane.  Speaking Spanish is not a deterrent since they are looking more at the individual.  I have recently traveled S. America and even males have to keep on their toes.  #1 Best advice stay close to your group or large groups.  Don't let yourself get isolated.  If you go into a store make sure there are lots of folks also in store again do not find yourself in a one on one.  Wear shoes and clothes that allow you to run quickly if necessary.  Carrying a back pack or purse with long strap can become a means of knocking you off balance...carry a small waist pack.

It is regretful that the world is becoming such a threat to folks who are just there to admire the natural wonders and the culture.  People who believe it can never happen to them are the usual victims--people who take steps to keep it from happening to them come home with good stories about their trip.

Answer 2

I spent 3 months in Ecuador alone and felt pretty safe.

a girl i met got her purse stolen on the "ecovia" which is the tram system in Quito, there are warnings everywhere about wearing ur backpack on ur front while on the tram but she never and they sneaked her purse out.

Make sure taxi's are genuine with a big number on the side as fake taxi drivers are rife and may rob u.

i went to some smaller towns and felt fine going out for dinner alone,walking there in the dark.

I never heard of serious sexual assaults while I was there although ALL girls do get lots of attention in the streets, including grabbing of bottoms by old men

Answer 3

Stay with the tour and do not go out alone at night of course you would do that anywhere now take care you will be OK with the tour and they will look after you have a great time.http://gosouthamerica.about.com/