South America is on everyone's bucket list. But before you visit make sure you check for any warnings and dramatic weather conditions. The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings for anyone looking to visit Haiti, Colombia, Jamaica, Chile and Peru.
Out of the five countries, Haiti has been receiving the highest level advisory: Do Not Travel with widespread kidnapping, and ransom negotiations.
Jamaica considered sending police and soldiers to Haiti to help the country with the ongoing gang violence. However, ironically Jamaica has its own crime problem with both Colombia and Jamaica have seen violent crimes increase in recent months, with warnings of "reconsider travel" for travellers sent out. Jamaica has also reported a very high homicide rate for several years. The country ranks among the highest.
The other two South American countries Chile and Peru also have level two advisories, which suggest increased caution.
Large-scale demonstrations have been seen in the cities, with national protests in Peru over the resignation of the country's President Pedro Castillo.
The country had to evacuate hundreds of tourists from travel sites and bring them to safety as the country's protesters and police had a big clash.
"The improved travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State is welcome news and a further reminder to the world that Peru is open for business. The upgraded travel alert underscores the safe and stable reality we see on the ground in Peru and should encourage travelers to visit." Ambassador of Peru to the United States Gustavo Meza-Cuadra told media.
The US State Department has urged travellers to adhere to travel warnings and department guidelines on travel to high-risk areas. If you have any plans of visiting the above mentioned countries please enroll in the 'Smart Traveler Enrollment program.'
Let us know if you are planning to visit South America this year, and if yes which countries are on your itinerary. We are always open to suggestions from travellers all over the world, be it for safety information or travel updates.
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