Planning a trip to South America makes for a great cultural experience, given the region's eclectic mix of urban and ancient civilizations.

No part of this continent will fail to surprise you. From hiking in the Andes to exploring a quiet, native village, every corner of South America is mesmerizing.

While most parts of the continent are safe, some interior areas are unsafe, steeped in crime. The more remote the area, the more caution needs to be exercised.

Sometimes, even extreme caution does not prevent maladies or injuries from happening. As you plan for your much-awaited trip, make South America travel insurance an integral part of it.

You can't predict or control your future, but you can surely prepare for it. Whether you stagger down a cliff or get punched by a thief, insurance can help you cover the costs.

The risks begin before you even set foot out your own front door. What if your hotel cancels your booking? What if local weather disturbances force the airline to cancel your flight? These types of circumstances totally beyond your control are the reason you should go for trip cancellation insurance.

Whatever losses you might incur from non-refundable bookings will get refunded through South America trip cancellation insurance—if your reason for cancellation is covered in the policy. It's a win-win situation; you either save money, or spend a little extra to buy yourself an anxiety-free trip.

Take out some time during planning your travels to go through multiple travel insurance policies for South America. Look at what they cover, and if they offer medical evacuation. Base your choice on an affordable, comprehensive plan that is like a protective gauze against potential risks.