Compare and Buy the Best Travel Insurance for South America

Protect yourself on your South America trip with travel insurance.

Why Should You Get Travel Insurance When Travelling to South America?

Home to some of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders, South America is a continent that beckons adventurers and wanderers alike. From the otherworldly landscapes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil, where rolling dunes meet crystal-clear lagoons, to the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain in Peru, a geological marvel painted by mineral deposits, the continent offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveller.

This vast continent encompasses twelve sovereign states – Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela – each boasting a unique blend of cultures, histories, and landscapes. In addition to these independent nations, South America also includes two dependent territories, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, as well as one internal territory, French Guiana.

For intrepid explorers and holidaymakers to this continent, you should be aware that South America can present unique challenges alongside its many wonders. While the region boasts incredible natural beauty and cultural richness, certain areas may experience elevated crime rates and incidents of political instability. These factors can potentially disrupt travel plans, leading to unexpected expenses or safety concerns.

Crime rates in some parts of the region

Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in tourist hotspots, while more serious crimes like robbery and assault can also occur. Some specific regions or cities may have higher crime rates than others, so it's crucial to research your destinations thoroughly.

Venezuela, for example, has the highest crime index in the world at 82.1. For reference, Singapore’s crime rate is currently at 23.1. Other notable cities on the list include Rio De Janeiro at 77.4, Salvador in Brazil at 76.6, Rosario in Argentina at 75.4, Peru at 67.5, Bolivia at 62.0, and Ecuador at 60.7.

Incidents caused by political instability

While rare, political instability can lead to protests, demonstrations, or even civil unrest in some parts of South America. As recently as February 2024, thousands of Brazilians poured into the streets in support of former president Jair Bolsonaro. Similarly in Argentina in April 2024, tens of thousands protested against cuts to education.

However, it's crucial to remember that these incidents are not the norm and that the vast majority of travellers to South America experience safe and enjoyable trips. The tourist hotspots tend to be safe from violent crime, and destinations like Chile or Uruguay are among the safest in the whole region.

Comparing the Best Travel Insurance Plans for Tourists to South America

Here Are The Best Travel Insurance Plans In South America

Overall Good Value Tiq Travel Entry

A good balance between cost-effectiveness and coverage.

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$200,000 in overseas medical coverage.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: There is an overseas hospitalisation allowance of $5,000
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to $300 for flight cancellation or delay and up to S$3,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$150 coverage for travel document loss and S$2,000 for loss of baggage.
• COVID-19 Coverage: COVID-19 is not covered under this plan.

Best for Budget Travel - FWD Premium

Best travel insurance for travellers on a tight budget or those backpacking to South America.

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$200,000 in overseas medical coverage. 
• Hospitalisation Coverage: The overseas hospitalisation allowance is capped at $5,000
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to S$500 coverage for flight cancellation and up to S$5,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$300 coverage for travel document loss. Baggage delay is covered at $150, while loss of baggage is covered up to $3,000.
• COVID-19 Coverage: COVID-19 is not covered under this plan, although it can be purchased as an optional add-on.

Best for Flight Diversions/Cancellations & Families - Seedly Travel Secure

Ideal travel insurance plan for families with children planning a trip to South America or for those worried about potential travel disruptions.

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$500,000 in overseas medical coverage.
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to S$10,000 coverage for trip cancellation and up to S$10,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$5,000 coverage for travel document loss. As for loss of baggage, you’ll be covered for up to S$10,000.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19 is S$500,000.
• Family-Focused Coverage: Complimentary coverage for up to 4 children is also included.

Best for Overseas Medical Coverage & COVID-19 Coverage - Singlife Travel Prestige

The recommended travel insurance plan to South America for those who want the best overseas medical coverage and COVID-19 coverage.

• Total Medical Coverage: You get unlimited coverage for overseas medical expenses
• Hospitalisation Coverage: There is an overseas hospitalisation allowance of $50,000
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to S$20,000 coverage for trip cancellation and up to S$15,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$5,000 coverage for travel document loss. As for loss of baggage, you’ll be covered for up to S$8,000.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19 is S$200,000 for overseas medical expenses.

Best For Pre-Existing Conditions - MSIG Standard Pre-Ex Plan

Most travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions so if you need coverage, this plan may be recommended. If you are unsure of any details, be sure to contact the insurer directly for confirmation of their policy coverage before you travel to South America.

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$250,000 in overseas medical coverage.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: There is an overseas hospitalisation allowance of up to $20,000.
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to S$5,000 coverage for trip cancellation and up to S$5,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$2,000 coverage for travel document loss. As for loss of baggage, you’ll be covered for up to S$3,000.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19 medical expenses is capped at S$75,000.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Pre-existing conditions are also covered under this plan with a cap of S$175,000. Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation are capped at $100,000 while overseas medical expenses for pre-existing conditions will max out at $50,000 for an adult over 70 or a child.

Best For Travelling With Elderly - MSIG Premier Pre-Ex Plan

This travel insurance plan covers both pre-existing medical conditions and has a total medical coverage of up to $1,000,000. This may be the best option if you are travelling to South America with an elderly person above the age of 70.

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$1,000,000 in overseas medical expenses coverage.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: There is an overseas hospitalisation allowance of up to S$60,000.
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to S$15,000 coverage for trip cancellation and up to S$15,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$5,000 coverage for travel document loss. As for personal belongings, you’ll be covered for up to S$7,500 for loss of baggage.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19 is S$250,000.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Pre-existing conditions are also covered under this plan with a cap of S$350,000. Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation is capped at $200,000 while overseas medical expenses for pre-existing conditions will max out at $100,000 for an adult over 70 or a child.

Best For Adventurous Activities - MSIG Premier Plan

If you are planning on taking part in adventure sports, then this is the best travel insurance plan for you. Be sure to check with the insurer on exactly what is covered before you fly to South America.

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$1 000,000 in overseas medical coverage.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: There is an overseas hospitalisation allowance which maxes out at S$60,000
• Trip Cancellation: You will get up to S$15,000 coverage for trip cancellation and up to S$15,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also covered, with up to S$5,000 coverage for travel document loss. As for personal belongings, you’ll be covered for up to S$7,500 for lost baggage. 
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19 is S$250,000. 
• Adventure Sports: This travel insurance policy to South America covers adventurous activities

Comparing South America Travel Insurance Coverage

When choosing the best travel insurance for South America, it is recommended that you consider the coverage you need for medical expenses, trip disruptions, and the budget you can set aside for the total premium amount. Other special considerations include coverage of pre-existing conditions and protection against injuries caused by extreme sports or adventure activities. 

COVID-19 coverage is another differentiating factor. With the ongoing pandemic, it is always better to be covered as COVID-19 can can still cause expensive disruptions to travel plans. Lastly, it can also be useful to see the value of the items you are bringing overseas to South America and ensure that your travel insurance provides adequate protection against loss of baggage during your trip.

Here’s a table with a comparison of travel insurance providers to South America:

The coverage amounts highlighted above are a snapshot of what each travel insurance provider offers. It's important to remember that each provider has a range of plans, allowing you to select the one that best aligns with your individual travel needs and budget for your trip to South America.

Plan ahead for your South America trip with travel insurance.

Important Travel Insurance Coverage for South America

A well-rounded travel insurance policy for South America should encompass a range of essential coverage areas. This includes protection against the loss or theft of belongings, overseas medical expenses including coverage for COVID-19, insurance for flight delays or cancellations, 24/7 global emergency assistance, and insurance coverage for natural disasters.

Medical Expenses

Given the unique health risks present in South America, comprehensive medical coverage is paramount for any traveller. This includes coverage for hospitalisation, doctor's visits, medication, and emergency medical evacuation.

Certain diseases are more prevalent in South America than in other parts of the world. For example, yellow fever is a risk in some regions of Brazil. Additionally, mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and Zika virus can be a concern, particularly during the rainy season.

A comprehensive travel insurance policy should cover medical expenses related to these and other potential health issues, ensuring you have access to quality care and peace of mind during your travels.

Loss of Belongings

Losing luggage or having it stolen can be a stressful experience, especially when travelling far from home. In South America, where bustling markets and crowded transportation hubs are common, the risk of theft or misplacement of belongings can be higher. 

In countries like Bolivia, Brazil, and Venezuela, petty theft is particularly prevalent in tourist areas. Additionally, the remote nature of Suriname can make it difficult to replace lost items quickly. Travel insurance with coverage for lost or stolen belongings can reimburse you for the value of your lost items, providing financial relief and peace of mind.

COVID-19 Medical Expenses

While COVID-19 may be less of a concern than it once was, the virus can still cause unexpected travel disruptions and medical emergencies. South American countries like Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay have varying healthcare systems and costs, and treatment for COVID-19 could be expensive for uninsured travellers. 

A travel insurance policy with COVID-19 coverage can help alleviate these costs, covering medical expenses, quarantine accommodation, and even trip cancellations due to a positive test. It's crucial to confirm the extent of COVID-19 coverage offered by your chosen provider to ensure you're adequately protected in case of infection during your travels.

Flight Delay or Cancellation

Flight delays and cancellations are a common occurrence in the aviation industry, and South America is no exception. Countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Guyana, with their diverse terrains and varying weather conditions, can experience flight disruptions due to factors like storms, volcanic activity, or even political unrest. 

In such scenarios, travel insurance can provide coverage for additional accommodation, meals, and alternative transportation, ensuring you're not left stranded and out of pocket due to unforeseen circumstances. It's advisable to choose a policy with comprehensive coverage for flight delays and cancellations to ensure a stress-free travel experience.

All-Time Global Emergency Assistance

Many travel insurance policies offer 24/7 global emergency assistance, which can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. This service provides you with a direct line to multilingual support teams who can help you with a variety of issues, regardless of your location. Whether you experience a medical emergency, lose your passport, or face a natural disaster, having access to this type of assistance can provide invaluable peace of mind during your travels in South America or anywhere else in the world.

Flexibility in Changing Travel Plans

South America is a vast continent with diverse landscapes and experiences, and sometimes travel plans need to change. Whether it's a sudden political unrest in a country like French Guiana, or unexpected weather conditions disrupting your trip to the Falkland Islands, having the flexibility to change your itinerary can be a lifesaver. 

Travel insurance policies with trip cancellation or interruption coverage can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses like flights, accommodations, and tours, allowing you to adjust your plans without incurring significant financial losses. This flexibility can be particularly valuable in South America, ensuring you can adapt to any situation and still make the most of your journey.

Natural disasters in South America

South America is prone to a variety of natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. For example, Chile is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences frequent seismic activity. 

Ecuador, home to several active volcanoes like Cotopaxi and Tungurahua, can experience ashfall and lava flows. Meanwhile, the Amazon rainforest in Brazil and Peru is susceptible to seasonal flooding, impacting transportation and infrastructure. In fact as recently as 2024, Brazil experienced heavy flooding in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul which killed 85 people and displaced 150,000.

Travel insurance to South America with natural disaster coverage can be a lifeline in these situations. It can provide compensation for trip cancellations or interruptions, as well as coverage for additional accommodation and travel expenses if you're forced to evacuate or seek shelter.

How to Choose The Best Travel Insurance for Your South America Trip

Evaluate Coverage Level

When choosing travel insurance for South America, it's recommended to assess the coverage level that aligns with your specific needs. Research the potential risks associated with your chosen destinations and activities, considering factors like crime rates and the prevalence of natural disasters.

The duration of your trip should also influence your decision, with longer trips generally requiring more comprehensive coverage. Finally, balance your desired coverage with your budget, comparing various policies to find the best value for your money.

Ensure Coverage for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it's crucial to choose a travel insurance policy for South America that explicitly covers them. Many standard policies exclude pre-existing conditions, but some providers offer optional coverage or waivers for an additional premium. It's essential to disclose your medical history accurately and completely to your insurer to avoid claim denials later on.

Analyse and Compare Different Policy Premiums

Travel insurance premiums to South America can vary significantly depending on the provider, coverage levels, and additional benefits. It's essential to compare quotes from different insurers to find a policy that offers the best value for your money. Consider not only the premium cost but also the coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.

Specialised Activity Coverage

If your South American adventure involves activities beyond sightseeing and leisurely strolls, it's crucial to ensure your travel insurance includes specialised activity coverage. Activities like trekking in the Andes, scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands, or white-water rafting in Patagonia often carry higher risks, and standard policies may not cover injuries or accidents incurred during these pursuits.

Look for policies that explicitly offer coverage for the specific activities you plan to undertake, or consider purchasing additional adventure sports coverage if needed.

Consider Coverage for Trip Interruptions and Belongings

Trip interruptions and lost or stolen belongings are common travel mishaps, and South America is no exception. Whether it's a sudden illness, a natural disaster, or a stolen passport, these events can quickly incur unexpected expenses. 

Having a well-recommended travel insurance plan for South America with coverage for trip interruptions and lost belongings can provide financial reimbursement for non-refundable expenses like flights, accommodations, and even the cost of replacing essential items like passports or medication.

Travel Tips & Safety for South America

Don’t Venture into Dangerous Neighbourhoods

Identify any areas known for high crime rates or safety concerns and avoid venturing into them, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and be cautious when using public transportation. This may be especially important in high-crime areas of Brazil or Argentina. If you're unsure about the safety of a particular area, seek advice from locals or your accommodation staff.

 Don’t Carry Luxury or other Expensive Items Openly

Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, watches, or electronics while exploring South America. These items can attract unwanted attention and increase your risk of becoming a target for theft. If possible, leave valuable items at home or securely locked in your hotel safe. When you do carry essential valuables like your phone or camera, keep them discreetly concealed and be mindful of your surroundings.

Avoid Walking to Your Accommodations at Night

While exploring during the day is generally safe in most areas of countries like Chile and Uruguay, it's advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar neighbourhoods. Opt for taxis or ride-sharing services to reach your accommodations, even if it's a short distance. If you must walk, stick to well-lit and populated streets, and be aware of your surroundings.

Learn Basic Spanish or Portuguese

While English is spoken in some tourist areas of Brazil and Argentina, learning basic Spanish or Portuguese phrases can significantly enhance your travel experience in South America. It enables you to interact with locals, navigate public transportation, and order food more easily. Knowing some basic phrases can also help you in emergencies or when seeking directions.

Be Prepared for Altitude Sickness

Many popular destinations in South America, such as Cusco in Peru and Quito in Ecuador, are located at high altitudes. Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, and fatigue, impacting your enjoyment of the trip. Acclimatise gradually by ascending slowly and staying hydrated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Travelers Heading to South America

Should I still go to South America despite the crime statistics?

Absolutely! While it's important to be aware of the potential risks, South America offers incredible experiences that far outweigh any challenges. With proper research, preparation, and precautions, you can have a safe and unforgettable journey. Remember, millions of tourists visit South America each year and return with wonderful memories.

Which are the must-visit countries in South America?

South America boasts a plethora of diverse and captivating destinations. Some of the must-visit countries include:

• Peru: Home to Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, and vibrant cities like Lima and Cusco.
• Argentina: Known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes like Patagonia, and the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires.
• Brazil: A vast country with diverse offerings, from the Amazon rainforest to the iconic beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the vibrant culture of Salvador.
• Chile: A long, narrow country stretching along the Pacific coast, offering stunning landscapes like the Atacama Desert, the Andes Mountains, and the glaciers of Patagonia.
• Colombia: A country experiencing a renaissance, with vibrant cities like Bogotá and Medellín, stunning Caribbean coastlines, and the coffee region's lush landscapes.

What is the safest South American country to visit?

Chile and Uruguay are often considered the safest countries in South America, with low crime rates and political stability. Argentina also ranks high in terms of safety, while Ecuador and Peru offer relatively safe travel experiences with some precautions.

How long should I spend in South America?

The ideal duration for a South American trip depends on your interests and travel style. Two weeks is a good starting point to explore a couple of countries or regions, while a month or more allows for a more in-depth exploration of multiple destinations.

What is the most beautiful country in South America?

Beauty is subjective, and each South American country has its unique charm. Chile, with its diverse landscapes, ranging from deserts to glaciers, is often considered one of the most beautiful. Argentina's Patagonia region, with its dramatic mountains and turquoise lakes, is also a popular choice. Brazil's Amazon rainforest and vibrant coastal cities offer another kind of beauty, while Peru's ancient ruins and Andean landscapes captivate many travellers.

Are all South American countries dangerous?

No, not all South American countries are dangerous. While some regions experience higher crime rates or political instability, many others are safe and welcoming to tourists. It's essential to research your specific destinations and take necessary precautions, but don't let fear deter you from exploring this incredible continent.