There’s nothing better for the soul than a solo trip, and South America is the destination of choice for many single adventurers. With dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, exceptional food, and world-class culture, there’s plenty to inspire and explore.
However, the prospect of traveling alone can be daunting, regardless of your experience level. Navigating your way around this vast continent can be tricky, but with a little extra planning and a few of these tips, you’ll get the very best out of your journey. Whether it’s your first time traveling alone or you’re a seasoned lone ranger, here are some top tips for solo travel in South America.
Sociable Solo Dining
Share a table and some conversation with locals and like-minded tourists by attending a supper club. These unique culinary experiences, often featuring food prepared by local cooks in unusual locations, are well worth the effort to track down. In Buenos Aires, for example, look for puertas cerradas – Casa Felix is an excellent place to start.
Food tours provide a sociable and immersive introduction to new dining cultures, often accompanied by a local guide. In Bogotá, the guides from A Chef’s Tour offer thirteen tastings across eight restaurants, showcasing everything from lechona (roasted suckling pig) to local liquor aguardiente.
Moreover, cooking classes allow a hands-on experience of local cuisine alongside fellow food enthusiasts. For instance, Lima is renowned for its food scene, featuring innovative young chefs. For a taste of traditional fare, consider SkyKitchen, where you can learn to prepare classic Peruvian dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of the city.
Make Amigos with Group Activities
Participating in organized activities is a fantastic way to make friends while exploring the local landscape. Join a group of gauchos on a horse trek in Patagonia, traversing the iconic mountains of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and camping in a rural outpost with a traditional Argentine asado. You can book directly with Nibepo Aike.
Continue your usual hobbies like yoga or running while meeting new friends along the way. Some running groups in various cities are free, so check local events on Facebook.
Soak Up the Culture Solo
The solo globe-trotter shouldn’t miss out on the rich cultural experiences available. Look for local theaters, dance houses, and concert halls. From Buenos Aires’ decadent Teatro Colón, which sometimes offers free tickets for rehearsals of major ballet productions, to the bohemian Teatro Pablo Tobón in Medellín, where free orchestra recitals are regularly hosted.
Additionally, live music gigs provide a window into local life, as every city showcases its own scene. Check platforms like Indie Hoy, Songkick, and Vuenoz for listings across the continent.
For downtime, a solo trip to the movies can be a relaxing experience. Cinemas are popular in Colombia, often showcasing foreign films in their original languages with Spanish subtitles. Cine Tonalá in Bogotá is a favorite, featuring a cozy screen, a hip bar, and a Mexican restaurant within a lovingly restored 1930s mansion. Furthermore, the Museo de Arte Moderno in Medellín is a contemporary gem where visitors can enjoy modern art alongside cutting-edge cinema.
Safe Sleeping
Finding a secure place to rest is always a priority, particularly when you’re traveling alone. Hostels are a popular option – they’re budget-friendly and foster a social atmosphere – but they aren’t your only choice. For added privacy, consider renting a room from a family on Airbnb (look for the ‘superhost’ badge for additional peace of mind); this option provides space while letting you benefit from local expertise. Alternatively, consider a homestay, which can include meals and may be arranged through many language schools at an extra cost.
Learn the Language
Getting to know the locals is essential for a solo traveler, and mastering the language is key to meeting new people. Consider organizing some lessons at the beginning of your trip; this approach helps you become more attuned to local accents and establishes an immediate social circle among your classmates. Ailola offers schools across South America, including the UNESCO world-heritage-listed Quito in Ecuador.
Getting Around South America
South America boasts numerous domestic flight connections, although sometimes the ticket prices can be steep. If you’re looking to save money and have the time available, consider booking a bus. Although service can be basic in some Andean countries, buses are surprisingly comfortable in others like Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. Make use of online platforms to book longer trips in advance; opt for the highest tier service, known as coche-cama, or leito in Brazil, which features fully reclining seats for your comfort.
Many of the stunning sights (like the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert) are more accessible with your own vehicle. Renting a car offers flexibility and safety for solo travelers. Chile has robust rental options, with well-known companies operating throughout. Choose a reputable brand, such as europcar.com, which provides 24/7 roadside assistance and a wide selection of pickup and drop-off points. Depending on your nationality and the country you’re visiting, an International Driving Permit may be required in addition to your driving license.
Safety for Solo Travel
While South America is generally safe for solo travelers, it’s crucial for anyone traveling alone to remain vigilant. Booking accommodations in advance, writing down addresses, and researching your route can help you walk purposefully and avoid sticky situations. Moreover, adopting simple precautions in case your belongings get stolen can ease the stress of difficult moments. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, set aside some cash in a separate account, and store the card safely. Furthermore, be aware of the nearest embassy locations; knowing where to seek help can be vital when traveling solo.
