Argentina is the eighth-largest country in the world, offering everything from the cosmopolitan energy of Buenos Aires to the glaciers of Patagonia, the vineyards of Mendoza, and the thundering Iguazu Falls. Over 7 million tourists visit annually.

Is Argentina safe for tourists? Yes. Argentina is one of South America's safest countries, with lower violent crime rates than Brazil, Colombia, or Peru. However, economic instability has led to increased petty crime.

Buenos Aires Safety

Buenos Aires, the "Paris of South America," is a vibrant capital of 15 million. It is generally safe, with European-style architecture, world-class steakhouses, and a rich cultural scene.

Safe Areas

**Palermo:** The largest neighborhood; Palermo Soho and Hollywood are trendy, walkable, and safe

**Recoleta:** Elegant, upscale; very safe day and night

**San Telmo:** Historic and bohemian; safe during the day, cautious at night

**Microcentro:** Business district; safe during business hours, avoid at night

Areas to Avoid

**La Boca (outside Caminito):** The tourist street Caminito is safe during the day, but surrounding streets are dangerous. Do not explore La Boca beyond Caminito, especially at night.

**Villa 31 and other villas (slums):** Do not enter

**Constitucion:** The area around the train station is sketchy, especially at night

Crime in Buenos Aires

**Phone snatching:** The most common crime. Thieves on motorbikes grab phones from hands at intersections. Do not use your phone near roads.

**Pickpocketing:** In crowded subte (subway) cars and on buses

**Bag snatching:** In cafes, thieves grab bags from chairs and tables near the street

**Express kidnapping:** Rare but occurs. Use ATMs inside banks.

**Counterfeit money:** Check all large bills for fakes, especially the 10,000 peso note

Patagonia Safety

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Patagonia (both Argentine and Chilean) is one of the safest destinations in South America. Crime is virtually nonexistent.

Safety considerations:

**Weather:** Conditions can change rapidly. Carry layers, wind protection, and check forecasts.

**Hiking:** Torres del Paine, El Chalten (Fitz Roy), and El Calafate (Perito Moreno Glacier) trails are well-marked but remote. Register with park rangers, carry water and a [first-aid kit](/blog/notfallapotheke-reise), and do not hike alone in remote areas.

**Driving:** Distances are enormous. Fill up at every gas station. Do not drive at night due to wildlife on roads (guanacos, rheas, foxes).

**Wind:** Patagonian winds are legendary and can knock you off your feet. Be cautious at viewpoints and cliff edges.

Mendoza and Wine Country

Mendoza is safe and tourist-friendly. The wine region (Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo, Uco Valley) is safe to explore by car, bike, or organized tour. The main risk is sun exposure at altitude (Mendoza is at 750m, with vineyards higher up). Use [high-SPF sunscreen](/go/amazon/B0B7VQ6JKL).

Iguazu Falls

Puerto Iguazu is safe and small. The Argentine side of Iguazu Falls is well-managed by park rangers. Walkways are well-maintained. The only real risks are heat exhaustion and mosquitoes — bring repellent and water.

Bariloche and the Lake District

Bariloche is the gateway to Argentina's Lake District. The town is safe. Surrounding hiking and skiing areas are safe. Check weather conditions before mountain activities.

Economic Situation and Safety

Argentina has experienced severe economic challenges including high inflation (over 200% in 2024-2025) and currency controls. While this makes Argentina very affordable for foreign visitors with dollars, it has led to increased property crime.

Economic safety tips:

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Bring USD cash and exchange at cuevas (unofficial exchange houses) for the best rate — but do this discreetly

Do not flash cash or expensive items

Be extra vigilant in busier areas where economic desperation leads to opportunistic theft

Crime Affecting Tourists

Violent Crime

Violent crime against tourists is rare in Argentina, much rarer than in Brazil or Colombia. Armed robbery does occur but is uncommon in tourist areas.

Petty Crime

**Phone snatching:** By far the most common issue. Keep phones in zipped pockets.

**Pickpocketing:** On the subte, buses, and in crowded markets

**Bag theft:** From cafes and restaurants. Keep bags on your lap or looped around your leg.

**Moped robberies:** Two people on a motorbike snatch bags at traffic lights

Use a [crossbody anti-theft bag](/go/amazon/B07P9Q6LJ8) for everyday use.

Scams

**The mustard/mustard scam:** Someone squirts something on you, then helps clean it while an accomplice picks your pocket

**The fake taxi:** Uses a rigged meter or takes the long way. Use Cabify or Uber.

**The "closed" restaurant/hotel:** A taxi driver says your destination is closed. Verify yourself.

Political Protests

Buenos Aires is a city of protests. Labor unions, social movements, and political groups frequently march, especially around the Plaza de Mayo and Congreso.

During protests:

Avoid the area

Protests are generally peaceful but can turn confrontational

Traffic can be paralyzed; plan alternative routes

Monitor local news

Health and Medical Safety

Medical Care

Buenos Aires has excellent private hospitals (Hospital Italiano, Hospital Aleman). Private care is affordable by international standards. Travel insurance is still recommended.

Food and Water

Tap water is safe to drink in Buenos Aires and most of Argentina

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Argentine beef is world-famous and safe; order it "jugoso" (medium-rare)

Empanadas, milanesa, and asado are staples

Ice is safe in established restaurants

Altitude

If visiting the northwest (Jujuy, Salta), some areas exceed 4,000m. Acclimatize gradually and carry altitude sickness medication.

Transportation Safety

Uber and Cabify

Both work well in Buenos Aires and are safer than street taxis. They also eliminate the need to negotiate fares.

Subte (Subway)

Buenos Aires' subway is safe during operating hours. Pickpocketing is the main risk. Be extra vigilant during rush hour.

Buses (Colectivos)

City buses are safe but crowded. Use a SUBE card.

Domestic Flights

Aerolineas Argentinas, Flybondi, and JetSmart connect major cities. Flights can be delayed; build buffer time into your itinerary.

Long-Distance Buses

Argentina has excellent long-distance buses (semi-cama and cama seats are very comfortable). Companies like Via Bariloche and Andesmar are reliable.

What to Do in an Emergency

**Police:** 101

**Ambulance:** 107

**Tourist Police (Buenos Aires):** +54-11-4346-5730

**U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires:** +54-11-5777-4533

Carry your [emergency documents](/blog/reisedokumente-checkliste).

Final Verdict

Argentina is safe for tourists. It is one of the safest countries in South America, with excellent infrastructure and welcoming people. The main risks are petty crime in Buenos Aires and weather-related risks in Patagonia. With basic precautions, Argentina is an accessible and rewarding destination.

Use our [Travel Risk Assessment Tool](/tools/) for personalized safety advice.

Is Argentina Safe for Tourists? Buenos Aires & Patagonia

Buenos Aires Safety

Safe Areas

Areas to Avoid

Crime in Buenos Aires

Patagonia Safety

Mendoza and Wine Country

Iguazu Falls

Bariloche and the Lake District

Economic Situation and Safety

Crime Affecting Tourists

Violent Crime

Petty Crime

Scams

Political Protests

Health and Medical Safety

Medical Care

Food and Water

Altitude

Transportation Safety

Uber and Cabify

Subte (Subway)

Buses (Colectivos)

Domestic Flights

Long-Distance Buses

What to Do in an Emergency

Final Verdict

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