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Embassies of South America
Contact and Safety Information

By Bonnie Hamre, About.com Guide

If you are traveling to and around in South America, you'll need the appropriate documents.

As you travel, keep abreast of local news coverage. If you plan a stay in one place for longer than a few weeks, or, if you are in an area where communications are poor, experiencing civil unrest or some natural disaster, you are encouraged to register with the Department of State. The web page for Americans to register with us is https://travelregistration.state.gov. You can register your entire itinerary on the web site. Or, after you have arrived at your destination, you can register at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Registration takes only a few moments, and it may be invaluable in case of an emergency.

Other useful precautions for all travelers are:

  • Leave a detailed itinerary and the numbers of your passport or other citizenship documents with a friend or relative in your home country.
  • Make sure your passport is up-to-date.
  • Carry your photo identification and the name of a person to contact with you in the event of serious illness or other emergency.
  • Keep photocopies of your airline or other tickets and your list of traveler’s checks with you in a separate location from the originals and leave copies with someone at home.
  • Leave things like unnecessary credit cards and expensive jewelry at home.
  • Bring travelers checks, not cash.
  • Use a money belt or concealed pouch for passport, cash and other valuables.

    Contact information of embassies and US embassies and consulates in these countries:

  • Argentina
  • Bolivia
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Colombia
  • Ecuador
  • Guyana
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Surianme
  • Uruguay
  • Venezuela

    Share your travel plans, questions, comments, concerns and trip reports. Post a message on the South America for Visitor's Forum. If you are not already registered, you'll need to do that, but it's easy and free.

    We're looking forward to hearing from you!

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