Latin America – Holy Week Observances

Holy Week celebrations will be observed throughout South America from April 13 -19, leading up to the Easter holiday on April 20. Millions of people will go on vacation or travel to their hometowns, causing substantial congestion at airports and on roads. Flight delays and other transport disruptions are likely. Hotel rooms will be in high demand. Expect restaurants, tourist attractions, and public transportation to be more crowded than usual. Large crowds might also provide criminals additional opportunities to commit petty theft and pickpocketing. Communities often lead elaborate religious processions down major thoroughfares in urban centers, prompting temporary road closures and traffic delays. Many government offices and commercial establishments may close or operate on limited hours, particularly April 17-20. Some businesses will probably remain closed April 21.