Work and travel opportunities across South America
South America is a continent of contrasts. It comprises vibrant cities, ancient cultures, lush rainforests, and snow-capped peaks. From digital nomads working remotely in Colombia’s coffee country to volunteers in the Amazon or English teachers in Buenos Aires, South America offers an incredible mix of work and travel opportunities for the adventurous soul.
Explore South American Countries
What to Know About South America
| Continent Size | ~17.84 million km² |
| Neighboring Regions | Central America, Caribbean |
| Number of Countries | 12 recognized sovereign nations |
| Estimated Population | Over 430 million (as of 2024) |
| Popular Cities | São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Lima, Santiago, Medellín, Quito, Rio de Janeiro |
| Time Zones | UTC -5 to UTC -3 (varies by country) |
| Major Languages | Spanish, Portuguese, Quechua, Aymara, English (in some regions) |
| Top Industries | Tourism, Agriculture, Energy, Mining, Education, Digital Services, Healthcare, Construction |
What are North America’s regions?
| Region | Includes |
|---|---|
| Andean | Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia |
| Southern Cone | Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay |
| Amazonian | Brazil, parts of Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia |
| Atlantic | Brazil, Uruguay, Guyana, Suriname |
| Caribbean South America | Venezuela, northern Colombia |
What’s the climate like in South America?
South America’s geography includes tropical jungles, mountain highlands, temperate coastlines, and arid deserts. Here’s a snapshot:
| Terrain | Climate |
|---|---|
| Amazon Rainforest | Hot, humid, with heavy rainfall year-round |
| Andes Mountains | Cool to cold with high elevation; seasonal variation |
| Southern Patagonia | Cold, windy, with long winters |
| Coastal regions (Peru, Chile, Brazil) | Mild to warm, often dry |
| Northern tropics (Colombia, Venezuela) | Hot and wet with defined rainy seasons |
| Southern Cone cities | Four seasons, with warm summers and cold winters |
Is South America safe to live, work, and travel?
South America is generally safe for travelers and expats, especially in urban and well-traveled areas. That said, safety varies by location. Cities like Santiago, Montevideo, and Medellín are known for being expat-friendly. Some rural or border areas may require extra caution. To find out which countries are the safest, consider checking the Global Peace Index.
Tips for staying safe:
- Research safety conditions in specific regions or cities.
- Use trusted transportation options and avoid traveling at night in rural areas.
- Keep copies of your passport and documents in secure places.
- Learn a few local phrases in Spanish or Portuguese (it helps).
- Stay connected with expat groups and local networks.
What are the Leading South American Industries?
South America has a growing mix of traditional and modern industries, ideal for remote workers, volunteers, educators, and skilled trades.
Digital work and freelancing
Cities like Buenos Aires, Medellín, and Santiago offer strong internet, co-working spaces, and affordable lifestyles for remote workers.
Tourism and hospitality
From Patagonia to Machu Picchu to Brazil’s beaches, there’s seasonal and long-term work in hotels, hostels, tour companies, and eco-lodges.
Agriculture and sustainable farming
South America is rich in organic farming and permaculture opportunities, especially in Argentina, Ecuador, and Brazil. Work exchanges are common.
Education and English teaching
Language schools in Colombia, Chile, and Peru often hire native speakers to teach English. Many positions don’t require certification.
Volunteering and NGO work
Conservation, health, and community development projects exist across the Amazon, Andes, and coastal regions. Some programs offer room and board.
Construction and skilled trades
Rapid urban growth creates opportunities in construction, plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work in cities like Lima, São Paulo, and Quito.
Energy and natural resources
Oil, gas, and mining are major employers in Bolivia, Brazil, and Venezuela, while renewable energy is growing in Chile and Argentina.
Healthcare and social work
Remote clinics, urban hospitals, and mobile outreach programs need support. Spanish proficiency is often required, but rewarding roles exist for travelers with medical or social service backgrounds.
Creative services and media
South America’s arts scenes are thriving. From film in Argentina to music in Brazil, creatives can find inspiration and gigs in digital content, photography, design, and writing.