Many countries in South America are considered dangerous. Embassies issue warnings: beware of theft, mugging, and scams. Yet in our experience, this applies to many cities around the world – not just on this continent.
Reading travel advisories certainly makes sense. But if you interpret them too narrowly, you barely dare to venture beyond your familiar surroundings. Still, the reality in many non‑European countries is actually different. We’ve already described how we move around and how we ensure the greatest possible safety for ourselves.
Since we’ve been travelling in Venezuela, our perception of what security truly means has shifted. Politically, we have encountered no major obstacles so far. In most countries, tourists are welcomed. The problems usually occur among criminal groups—and primarily affect the local population. Most of these conflicts can be avoided by steering clear of certain areas and major cities.
Security has many dimensions
Security while travelling consists of several layers. On one hand, there is the immediate threat of crime—from petty theft to mugging or even kidnapping. On the other hand, the state itself can pose a threat: for example, via corrupt security forces or political instability, as in the case of guerrillas or cartels pursuing their goals through abduction or extortion.
Everyday travel: observations and strategies
Personal safety has been most relevant for us in cities like Santa Marta (Colombia) or Puerto Ordaz (Venezuela), as well as at border crossings—we took extra precautions in these areas. Away from urban centres, the atmosphere was generally more relaxed; people were helpful and often surprised to encounter foreigners.
A simple but effective trick: never travel the same route multiple times—this deters targeted ambushes. In Colombia, we passed through a guerrilla zone. At the checkpoints we spoke with locals who assured us it was safe during the day. There were even signs with clear rules: no movement between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., tinted windows and tarpaulins to be left open, faces visible—so they could identify who was passing through.
The guerrilla obviously knew we were tourists. And indeed: they had an interest in letting travellers through—tourism brings money. Unfortunately, they undermine their own efforts by attacking government forces.
Safety through local networks
On the final day of our journey, after a long muddy stretch, we helped pull a small sedan out of a ditch—even though it had a box of ammunition on the passenger seat. That evening we asked a local contact whether it would be safe to drive the last few kilometres in the dark. The answer: “No problem from here on.” Just one day earlier—only 100 km behind us—we had been explicitly warned not to travel after 6 p.m. We had therefore arranged an early stop for the night.
The lovely thing about travelling is that most locals enjoy meeting travellers. Initially some may be sceptical, but that often eases quickly once they realise we aren’t typical tourists. Many then happily share helpful tips.
Coastal Colombia: Little hospitality, much distrust
On the Colombian Caribbean coast we felt the least safe. The local people were often unfriendly, sometimes even hostile. Presumably they’ve seen too many tourists—so they assume there’s always something to gain. Several times they tried to scam us. Fortunately, we had a rough idea of prices and were able to push back.
Colombia was also where we witnessed violence first‑hand: two men attacked each other with machetes on the street. We left the scene quickly. And again, the lesson repeats itself: where many tourists are, there are many looking to capitalise—in an honest way or not.
Police checks, smuggling routes and grey areas
Outside tourist circuits, police officers are often not well‑informed. Many don’t know the rules applying to foreign vehicles—which also makes them less prone to targeted extortion.
In highly conflicted regions, especially border areas with heavy smuggling activity, we try to spend as little time as possible. These towns are seldom pleasant, and the shorter the stay, the lower the risk. Wherever there’s something to gain—be it goods, control, or money—crime rates increase accordingly.
How was Venezuela?
We experienced a very different security situation in Venezuela. Robberies are rare, and kidnappings by gangs have dropped significantly, according to our conversations. This was confirmed to us by police, military, locals, and expatriates living there long‑term. For about five years the situation has noticeably improved—even though there’s a growing sense of decline again.
Despite the countless checkpoints—209 in the last month alone—we were treated properly at every one. Most simply waved us through; occasionally they checked our papers. Once we were offered water, another time even coffee.
We felt uneasy only shortly before the mayoral elections. They were announced just one month prior—a sign of how quickly the political situation can change. At present, foreigners are welcomed because they bring foreign currency. But that could shift at any moment if political incentives change.
Between stereotype and reality
Many warned us about Venezuela and Ecuador. Yet these two countries surprised us in a positive way. Yes, they have its dangers—no sugar-coating there. Life for the local population is often harsh. But we felt safer there than in many other countries—especially compared to Colombia.
We learned a valuable lesson: it’s worth talking with other travellers. Because holidaying, overlanding or living in a country—these are very different experiences.
Disclaimer: This is our experience, it is different for every traveller, and no matter where you go, it’s better to be well prepared beforehand. If in doubt, look for something else you feel safe doing.