Is Argentina Safe to Visit? (2026 Expert Guide)

Is Argentina safe: A quick overview

Violent crime against tourists?	Uncommon
Pickpocketing?	Common in tourist areas
Solo female travel?	Generally safe
Public transport?	Usually safe – keep an eye out for pickpockets
Areas requiring extra caution?	Parts (generally non-touristy) of Buenos Aires and the city of Rosario

First up, how safe is Argentina?

The good news: experts consider Argentina safe.

The most recent Global Peace Index (2025) ranked Argentina 46th in the world. To put that into perspective, the United States ranked 128th – so Argentina is considered more peaceful and safer than the United States.

Governments consider travel to Argentina safe, with the following travel advice and alert levels currently in place (as of June 2026):

• USA: Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
• Australia: Exercise normal safety precautions
• Canada: Take normal security precautions (with regional advisories)

Hopefully this has put your mind at ease, because there are so many things to do in Argentina that make a trip here so worthwhile. So, while you should be aware of potential dangers and take precautions, there’s no need to be overly worried about safety in Argentina – focus on having an amazing time instead.

Safety in major cities in Argentina

When it comes to safety in Argentina, the safety situation varies from city to city. Here’s what you need to know about safety in some of the major cities in Argentina that might be on your Argentina itinerary.

Is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?

The capital city, Buenos Aires is generally considered to be one of the safest cities in South America. You can easily spend three days in Buenos Aires and have no issues at all.

On my most recent trip to Buenos Aires I noticed a marked increase in police presence in the touristy areas. There are also new police booths and stands (which have cameras and you can press a button to call the police) in areas with high foot traffic.

However, in recent years there has been rising unemployment and poverty. And with poverty comes desperation and crime.

Pickpocketing and other forms of petty crime can be problems in areas like San Telmo and La Boca and even Palermo, so keep an eye on your belongings when you’re out and about. Stay within the main tourist area of La Boca (Calle Caminito), which is patrolled by police, and don’t hang around the area at night.

Retiro Train Station is known to be a pickpocketing hotspot, so be on guard around here, and avoid the area at night.

Overall, though, Buenos Aires is safe for tourists. Take a common-sense approach at night like you would in any big city.

→ READ NEXT: The best things to do in Buenos Aires

Is Mendoza safe for tourists?

Mendoza, known for its vineyards and mountainous landscapes, generally ranks as a safe destination for tourists in Argentina. Its laid-back atmosphere and smaller city size make it less frenetic and overwhelming than other urban areas. Three days in Mendoza will have you seriously relaxed!

However, it’s not immune to crimes such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching, especially in crowded public places. This mostly occurs in the downtown areas rather than the winery regions of Mendoza.

Being such a popular tourist destination, there’s a good police presence. The city maintains a good safety record and tourists generally report feeling secure during their visit – I’ve certainly never had an issue when I’ve visited Mendoza.

→ READ NEXT: Where to stay in Mendoza

Is Cordoba safe?

Cordoba is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history and fun nightlife.

It’s also generally considered to be a safe city for tourists.

Like Mendoza, pickpocketing here can be an issue, so keep an eye on your stuff and be aware of anyone looking suspicious nearby.

Cordoba is a university town with a lively nightlife. If you’re heading out on the town, stick to well-lit areas and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you. It’s a good idea to go out with a group of friends rather than venturing out alone.

Is Rosario safe?

Rosario is the third-largest city in Argentina, and it’s known for its beautiful parks, museums and historic buildings. And as the birthplace of both Che Guevara and Messi!

However, it’s also known for drug trafficking, which is increasingly becoming an issue in the city.

The governments of Australia, Canada and the US warn that crime is a problem in Rosario. This is the only city in Argentina to have such a travel advisory from all three governments.

While Rosario isn’t typically a destination for foreign tourists, if you’re planning to visit, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Stick to well-lit areas, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you and be wary of anyone who approaches you on the street. Obviously, don’t get involved in the drug scene.

Argentina safety issues to be aware of

There are a few common safety concerns to be aware of in Argentina. These mostly apply to major cities and they’re also not that common, so read this just to be aware, not to be scared.

Bag snatching

Bag-snatching does occur in crowded places. This generally happens if people have left their bag on the back of their chair or the ground. It also happens with iPhones left on tables, so never do this. iPhones (and other smart phones) are expensive in Argentina so they’re a popular target for thieves.

Similarly, don’t work on a laptop at an outdoor table at a café. Or ask people to mind your stuff while you go to the bathroom.

Another common bag-snatching method is someone riding past on a motorbike and snatching your bag. Called motochorros, this theft involves two people – one driving the bike, the other snatching bags.

Pickpocketing

Like all major cities, Buenos Aires does have a pickpocketing problem. It usually happens in crowded areas and on public transport.

But it can even occur in quiet areas.

It happened to me!

While I was walking to work one day, listening to a podcast on my phone, someone pickpocketed my phone. My phone was in my rain jacket pocket and I didn’t even feel a thing. These guys are GOOD at pickpocketing. My advice: Avoid using your phone in public places. If you do have to pull it out, hold on to it tightly and keep an eye on your surroundings.

Violent crime

Violent crime is rare. But it does happen. There have been a few reports of armed robberies involving tourists.

ATM scams

Another issue is ATM scams. This usually involves someone distracting you while someone else tries to steal your card or cash. It’s rare, but one to be aware of (regardless of which country you’re in). (However, if you’ve read my guide to money in Argentina for travellers, you’ll know not to be using ATMs anyway!)

Taxi safety

While taxis are generally safe, there have been reports of taxi drivers taking longer routes to increase fares or even being involved in robberies. On a handful of occasions, I’ve frustratingly had taxi drivers adjust their meters so that the fare goes up quicker. I quickly let them know I wasn’t falling for that!

Protests

Argentina is known for its frequent protests and demonstrations. These are generally peaceful but they can sometimes turn violent. The Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires is a popular spot for protests. Like anywhere else in the world, stay away from demonstrations.

Distraction scams

You’ve seen this scam everywhere in the world. Someone sprays something on your clothes while someone else tries to “kindly” wipe the “pigeon poo” off you – only to rob you. Or, a friendly person comes to talk to you while another person is busy zipping open your backpack.

Drink and food spiking

With a reputation for a fun nightlife scene, drink spiking does happen in Argentina.

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Don’t let any of this put you off visiting Argentina! These incidents are rare. More than 5.7 million people visited Argentina in 2025 – and, while I don’t have had statistics, I’d bet that most of those visits were without an issue.

As I said earlier, Argentina is statistically safer than the United States!

Safety tips for Argentina

So now that you know some of the issues, here are some safety tips to keep in mind.

1. Don’t flash your valuables

Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or carrying expensive items like cameras, laptops or smartphones in public. This will make you a target for thieves.

Keep your valuables in a secure location and only take them out when necessary.

Of course, I know you want to take photos when you visit! So take the photo and then put your camera/phone away in your bag.

2. Keep your bags close

If you’re sitting at an outdoor cafe, make sure your purse or bag is on your lap, away from the street. I always keep my bag on my lap with my arm wrapped through the handle.

When walking along the street, keep your bag away from the road where it could be easily snatched by motochorros.

3. Don’t carry too much cash

Argentina makes it tricky to avoid carrying a lot of cash – to buy even a basic meal you’ll need a stack of notes.

But plan out your day and only carry with you what you need.

Also, put money in different spots. Some could go in your wallet, some in another pocket, some in your shoe, some (for the ladies) inside your bra. Consider a money belt or secret scarf (read next tip).

4. Invest in a money belt

As well as putting your money on different parts of your body, get yourself a money belt, a passport scarf or a thief-proof backpack. (I don’t love money belts but they can be hidden!)

While nothing’s foolproof, it will make a thief’s job harder.

→ READ NEXT: The ultimate Argentina packing list

5. Lock your phone apps

Lock your apps – banking, social media, anything related to your identity – with Face ID. Thieves are clever and can access your bank accounts and quickly transfer money before you know it. (Ironically, on my most recent trip to Buenos Aires I was talking about this issue with a Kiwi guy in a bar. Turns out, this had happened to him – his phone was unlocked, thieves snatched it and stole thousands of dollars.)

6. Learn a few words of Spanish

Learn some basic Spanish. You don’t have to be able to hold a conversation, but you do want to know enough so that you can get by in taxis and on public transport.

My favourite tool for learning a language is iTalki – it’s all about speaking, which is what you need to be able to do when you visit a country!

7. Don’t resist

It’s highly unlikely, but armed robberies do happen. Don’t resist.

Your stuff can be replaced.

That’s why you have travel insurance, right?

8. Don’t sit by the door on public transport

Snatch and grab robberies can occur as doors are closing on the train or bus. So, avoid sitting or standing close to the doors if you can.

9. Use licensed taxis

When travelling around Argentina, use licensed taxis. These taxis have official markings and are usually yellow or black with a roof light.

Keep your eye on the meter to make sure it’s not going up too quickly or that the taxi driver adds an extra amount to the fare when you stop.

It’s always a good idea to have an idea of how to get to your destination so you can see if the driver’s going in a roundabout way.

10. Use a ride-hailing app

At night, it can be a good idea to use a ride-hailing app like Uber or Cabify, which are widely available in major cities. This means you don’t have to worry about paying in cash and you know the fare before you get in.

You can also send your location to someone so they can track your journey.

→ READ NEXT: How to get around Buenos Aires

11. Keep your door locked

When you’re in a taxi or Uber, keep your door locked and your window up.

Thieves often target cars stopped at traffic lights. This happened to one of my colleagues. She was in a taxi stopped at the lights and someone snatched her phone through the open window.

12. Be cautious when using ATMs

Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centres, and avoid using them at night or in isolated areas.

Shield your PIN number from view and be aware of anyone standing too close to you.

13. Watch out for counterfeit notes

When exchanging money in Argentina, carefully check the pesos you get. Same goes for the change you receive in shops.

14. Watch your drink

Keep an eye on your drink and don’t accept drinks from strangers. Avoid leaving your food or drink unattended.

15. Don’t do drugs

Sure, you can very easily get drugs in Argentina. But don’t do them – it’s illegal. You’ve seen “Banged Up Abroad” and you know how it’ll end!

16. Avoid the villas

Villas are essentially shanty towns and they are in Buenos Aires. You might be surprised that there’s one right next to fancy Recoleta (I could see Villa 31, Buenos Aires’ most infamous villa, from my balcony).

It’s unlikely you’ll find yourself in a villa (pronounced veesh-a) but if you accidentally do, leave quickly.

Retiro Train Station is right next to Villa 31. This area is a hotspot for pickpockets as they can quickly escape into the villa. This is where I was pickpocketed, so I know how quickly pickpockets can move!

17. Find out which areas to avoid

There are areas in all cities in the world that you just know to avoid. Find out from your hotel or accommodation which areas to stay away from in the city you’re in in Argentina.

In Buenos Aires, for instance, those areas are La Boca (outside of the main tourist area and at night), parts of San Telmo at night and Retiro Train Station. Figure out where to stay in Buenos Aires to avoid the sketchier areas.

18. Keep an eye on the ground!

Okay, so this tip isn’t safety-related, but always keep an eye on the footpath. There’s dog poop everywhere! At times it’s like dodging a minefield!

Argentina travel insurance

You shouldn’t visit Argentina without travel insurance. You can read my full Argentina travel insurance guide, but below I’ve got a few tips and recommendations.

The Argentine government requires foreign visitors to have insurance to cover medical emergencies and hospitalisation – but checks of insurance are hit and miss. Either way, you need travel insurance – not just for health reasons.

Travel insurance protects you against theft, illness, injury and cancellations.

If you get sick or injured while in Argentina, travel insurance will cover your medical expenses.

It may even cover the cost of a medical evacuation back to your home country.

Additionally, if something unexpected happens and you need to cancel your Argentina trip, travel insurance can help reimburse you for any non-refundable expenses.

In short, travel insurance is a must.

I recommend the following three travel insurance providers:

• Travel Insurance Master – a site that aggregates travel insurance products from across various providers
• SafetyWing – great for digital nomads in Argentina or people travelling for long periods
• World Nomads – simple and flexible travel insurance

You should be able to find what you need for Argentina with one of these providers.

Is Argentina safe to travel alone?

Absolutely!

Of course, you’ll need to take extra precautions with no one else to keep an eye out for you. Follow all the tips listed above, along with:

• Book accommodation before you go so you know where you’re staying in each of the places in Argentina you’re visiting
• Consider joining some tours so you can explore with a guide – and maybe even make some new friends
• Don’t get wildly drunk
• Let family and friends back home know where you are and where you’re going next
• If your government has the option, register with them that you’re in Argentina

Is Argentina safe for solo female travellers?

It’s also a yes to this question about whether Argentina is safe for solo female travellers. I think the advice above also applies.

You do need to be aware that Argentina has quite the macho culture. As a woman, you’ll likely be the recipient of piropos, men openly commenting about you. It’s the Buenos Aires version of catcalling and can be off-putting. Ignore them and keep walking.

Don’t walk around alone at night and avoid dark areas without streetlights.

Let someone know where you’re going when you head out for the evening. That could be someone at your accommodation or a text to a friend back home.

Always, always trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, leave the situation. Don’t be afraid to make a scene or ask for help if you feel threatened.

My final thoughts: Is Argentina safe to visit?

Overall, Argentina is safe.

Millions of people visit Argentina every year and have a great time. I lived here for two years and the only issues I ever had was one pickpocketing incident and some taxi drivers trying to jib the meter.

Follow the safety tips I’ve shared here and be aware of what can go wrong and how to prevent it – but don’t be anxious or scared.

By taking basic safety precautions, you can avoid being the victim of a crime and enjoy all that Argentina has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Argentina safe to visit right now?

The Australian, Canadian and US governments all list Argentina at the lowest risk level. The safety situation in Argentina can change at any time, so it’s always a good idea to check the current safety status before you travel.

What are the current travel restrictions for Argentina?

As of June 2026, there are no significant travel restrictions in place for Argentina. Always check your government’s travel advisories ahead of a trip.

What’s the crime rate like in Argentina?

Argentina does have crime, especially in larger cities like Buenos Aires. However, most visitors to Argentina have a safe and enjoyable trip. In my personal experience, I felt safe living in Argentina for two years and never encountered any major safety issues – other than one pickpocketing incident (and I wasn’t hurt).

Is the United States or Argentina safer?

The 2025 Global Peace Index lists Argentina at 46 and the United States at 128 in terms of safety and peace. You can interpret that as Argentina being safer than the United States.

Is Argentina safer than Brazil?

Generally, yes. Argentina is usually considered safer for tourists than Brazil, particularly when it comes to violent crime. Australia’s Smartraveller advises travellers to exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina, while Brazil is listed at exercise a high degree of caution due to violent crime.

Is Argentina safer than Mexico?

In general, Argentina is considered safer for travellers than Mexico. Australia’s Smartraveller currently advises travellers to exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina, compared with exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to violent crime, with higher warnings for some Mexican states. This doesn’t mean Argentina is risk-free, but it doesn’t have the violent crime that Mexico does.

Is Buenos Aires safe to walk around?

Buenos Aires is generally safe to walk around in many central and tourist-friendly neighbourhoods during the day, including Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo and parts of the city centre. The main risks are pickpocketing, phone snatching and bag theft, especially in busy areas, on public transport and around major tourist sights. At night, use more caution: stick to well-lit streets, avoid quiet areas you don’t know and take a taxi or rideshare if you’re unsure.

How do locals feel about tourists in Argentina?

Argentinians are generally friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, as with any country, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid talking about the Malvinas Islands (Falklands) if you’re British. Learning a few words of Spanish can also go a long way.

Do people speak English in Argentina?

While many Argentinians speak some English, it does vary depending on where you are in the country. In larger cities like Buenos Aires, you’re more likely to find a lot more people who speak English fluently. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to help you get by. (I recommend using a tool like iTalki to learn how to speak.)

Got any questions about staying safe in Argentina? Drop them in the comments section below.

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Read next

Before you go… you might like these other Argentina travel blogs.

• How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires: The Perfect First-Timer’s Itinerary
• 25 Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires: An Ex-Resident’s Local List
• Where to Eat in Buenos Aires: 35+ of the Best Restaurants and Bars to Try
• Where to Stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina: A (Former) Local’s Guide
• Navigating Money in Argentina: A Traveller’s Guide to Money Matters
• How to Plan a Buenos Aires Travel Budget
• Argentina Itinerary Ideas: Options for 1-4 Weeks

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