Navigating Business Travel in South America, A Guide for Corporate Travelers

South America is a continent of contrasts, from the bustling financial hubs of São Paulo and Santiago to the rich cultural landscapes of Colombia and Peru. For businesses, the region offers a wealth of opportunities in sectors ranging from technology and agriculture to mining and renewable energy. However, navigating its diverse markets requires a deep appreciation for its varied cultures, an understanding of its logistical complexities, and a smart approach to safety and planning.

This guide provides corporate travelers with the essential knowledge needed for a successful business trip to South America, focusing on key markets like Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Argentina.

The Centrality of Personal Relationships in Business

Across South America, business is deeply personal. Building trust and rapport is not just a formality; it is the foundation upon which all successful commercial relationships are built.

Patience and "El Proceso" (The Process): The pace of business can be slower and more relationship-driven than in North America or Europe. Expect initial meetings to focus on getting to know each other personally. Conversations about family, travel, and football (soccer) are common and are a crucial part of building a connection. Rushing to the business agenda can be seen as aggressive and may be counterproductive. Decisions often involve multiple stakeholders and require consensus, so patience is key.
Hierarchy and Formality: Respect for hierarchy is important. Address people using their formal titles (Señor/Señora, Dr.) and last names until you are invited to use their first name. When entering a meeting, greet the most senior person present first.
Direct vs. Indirect Communication: Communication styles can vary. In countries like Chile, communication tends to be more direct and to the point. In Brazil and Colombia, communication is often more indirect and high-context. It's important to pay attention to non-verbal cues and to understand that a "yes" might mean "I understand" rather than "I agree." A "no" is often phrased diplomatically to avoid causing offense.

Logistical Planning for a Vast Continent

South America is a huge continent, and travel between countries and even within them requires careful planning.

Air Travel is Essential: With vast distances and challenging terrain, flying is the only practical way to travel between major cities. Major airlines like LATAM and Avianca offer extensive networks. Book multi-city trips well in advance. Be aware that domestic flights can sometimes be subject to delays, so build buffer time into your schedule.
Ground Transportation: In major cities, ride-sharing apps are widely available and are generally the safest and most reliable option for getting around. In cities like São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá, traffic can be incredibly congested. Plan your schedule accordingly and allow ample time to get from one to another. Avoid hailing taxis off the street, especially at night.
Visa Requirements: Visa policies vary significantly. Some countries offer visa-free travel for tourists and business visitors from many nations, while others may require a visa obtained in advance. Always check the specific entry requirements for your nationality with the relevant consulate or embassy long before your planned travel dates.
Safety and Security: While most business travel to South America is safe and without incident, it's important to be security-conscious. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in large cities. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, watches, or large amounts of cash. Keep your passport and valuables in your hotel safe. Use trusted transportation methods and be cautious in crowded areas. It's also wise to register your trip with your country's embassy. A robust travel risk management program, which includes real-time traveler tracking, is a must for any company with employees traveling in the region.

Practical Considerations for the Business Traveler

Language: While English is spoken in international business circles, having a basic knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese (for Brazil) is a huge advantage and a sign of respect. At a minimum, learn basic greetings. For important negotiations, hiring a professional interpreter is a wise investment.
Business Attire: The dress code is generally formal and conservative. Men should wear a dark suit and tie for initial meetings. Women should opt for conservative business suits or dresses.
Health: Consult a travel health clinic before your trip. Vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A may be recommended depending on your destination. In some regions, particularly the Amazon basin, malaria and Zika virus are a concern, so take precautions against mosquito bites. Drink only bottled or purified water.

A business trip to South America can be an incredibly rich and rewarding experience. By investing time in building personal relationships, showing respect for the local culture, and planning your logistics carefully, you can navigate the continent with confidence and achieve your business objectives.

Let Routespring help you manage the complexities of travel in South America.