Cities in middle Chile are generally safe but like anywhere, opportunistic theft occurs. Take care of your personal belongings and beware of pickpockets. Viña del Mar and Valparaíso are especially prone to pickpockets in the summer season when the streets are crowded with tourists. Carry your day-bag on your chest. It’s not uncommon for light-fingered thieves to rummage through your bag while you are waiting to cross a road. Women should not walk alone in the cities at night. Avoid the beach town of Cartagena like the plague. It’s full of drunken holidaymakers, often fighting in the streets at night.