Despite its relatively small population and its wealth of natural resources, much of South America is burdened by economic, social, and environmental problems. But with the majestic Andean mountain chain, the mighty Amazon River, and the most extensive rain forest on Earth, South America has incredible potential.

According to a 2007 study by Baez, Sztajnkrycer, Zane and Giraldez, the political history of South America probably can be described best as tumultuous, with multiple revolutions and military dictatorships. The 1980s saw a wave of democratization through the continent, yet allegations of corruption and political conflicts still remain.

The UK Government issues the following travel advice:-

• Argentina
• Ascension Island (British Overseas Territory)
• Bolivia
• Brazil
• British Antarctic Territory
  
• Chile
• Colombia
• Ecuador
• Falkland Islands (British Overseas Territory)
• French Guiana
• Guyana
• Paraguay
• Peru
• South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands (British Overseas Territory)
• St Helena (British Overseas Territory)
• Suriname
• Tristan da Cunha (British Overseas Territory)
• Uruguay
• Venezuela