In response to growing concerns over regional instability, severe weather events and security risks, UK has increased travel caution to several Latin American countries
Ecuador has now been added to the list of nations with increased caution, joining Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Paraguay.
Heightened regional instabilities, ongoing internal disturbances and severe weather events have promoted the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to advise against all but essential travel to various regions across these countries, urging travelers to stay informed and exercise caution amidst volatile conditions.
The travel advisory highlights the importance of staying informed, having comprehensive travel insurance cover and remaining adaptable to changing conditions.
Ecuador: Severe weather and political instability seem to have promoted the FCDO to advise against all but essential travel to multiple provinces, particularly those along the coast and near the country’s border with Colombia. Persistent, heavy rainfall has led to flooding, landslides and road closures across several provinces. Areas like Azuay, Napo, Sucumbíos, and Chimborazo have been significantly impacted, with damaged road networks affecting travel.
Argentina: The travel advisory update focuses on administrative matters with FCDO clarifying visa and entry requirements for business travelers who are also encouraged to check for any guidance related to areas of higher risk or political unrest, particularly in large cities, where demonstrations and protests may occur unexpectedly.
Brazil: The FCDO has advised against all but essential travel to regions along the Amazonas River, including remote tributaries and parts of the Itaquai, Japura and Reo Negro rivers. Poor infrastructure and challenging environmental conditions increase the safety and logistic risks for travellers.
Bolivia: Bolivia is the midst of a political transition. Its primary tourist destinations remain safe. The FCDO continues to advise increased caution for Chapare region owing to geographical and safety conditions.
Chile: Chile has been removed from tsunami advisories following the earthquake in Kamchatka Peninsula; however, travelers are still advised to urge caution while travelling to areas prone to seismic activity. Rupa Nui (Ester Island), a popular tourist destination is included, with travelers urged to remain aware of potential environmental disruptions.
Colombia: Colombia’s major cities and popular tourist destinations remain safer, however FCDO continues to advise against travel to rural and border areas where security situation remains unpredictable. The travel advisory includes regions near the Venezuela and Ecuador borders (within 5 Km). Departments such as Norte de Santander, Arauca, and parts of Vichada have been flagged due to instability and security concerns owing to local conflicts and presence of armed groups. Colombia’s Pacific Coast departments like Choco Valle del Cauca, and Cauca are high risk-zones. The situation is volatile in regions like Antioquia, Cordoba, and Narino – travelers should exercise extreme caution and avoid travel, if possible.
Paraguay: The travel advisory remains unchanged with FCDO noting the country remains stable. It emphasizes the need to stay informed about potential weather-related disruptions and road closures, especially during rainy season.
Peru: OECD flags The Valley of the Apurimac, Ene, and Montaro Rivers (VRAEM) region aa a high-risk zone due to internal security issues and ongoing disruptions. It advises against all but essential travel to the area. Areas with 20 km south of Peru-Colombia border, including areas of Loreto, continue to be flagged due to safety concerns. Travelers to Amazon region are urged to consider travel via air as some roadways may be inaccessible due to flooding and landslides.
Venezuela: FCDO advises against all travel within 80 km of the Venezuela-Colombia border and within 40 km of the Venezuela-Brazil border. The presence of armed groups and illicit activities along these borders has made travel dangerous. Zulia state faces power cuts, water shortages and local conflicts. Travelers planning to visit Venezuela should proceed with extreme caution, staying up to date on local conditions and adhering to safety recommendations provided by local authorities.
Disclaimer: The article has reference to open sources including FCDO, and TTW.