Argentina Travel Alerts: Stay Safe and Informed During Your Trip

Argentina, a land of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and passionate people, is a dream destination for many travelers. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking glaciers of Patagonia, Argentina offers a diverse range of experiences. However, like any country, it’s essential to be aware of potential safety and security risks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide provides comprehensive Argentina Travel Alerts and safety information to help you stay informed and prepared.

Understanding Argentina’s Risk Levels

The overall risk level for Argentina is considered to be Take normal security precautions. However, certain areas require increased vigilance.

Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

In the Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, it’s advised to Exercise a high degree of caution due to prevalent crime, including petty theft and muggings. Tourists are often targets, so awareness and preventative measures are crucial.

Rosario: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Rosario requires travelers to Exercise a high degree of caution due to a rise in homicides linked to drug-related organized crime. While tourist areas are generally safer, being vigilant and informed is recommended.

Safety and Security Concerns in Argentina

Argentina is generally a safe country for tourists, but crime, particularly in urban areas, is a concern. Understanding the types of crime and taking precautions can significantly reduce your risk.

Crime: Petty Theft and Scams

Petty crime is the most common safety issue travelers will encounter in Argentina. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and cell phone theft are frequent, especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation.

Common Petty Crime Tactics:

Distraction Techniques: Thieves often work in pairs or groups, using distractions like asking for directions or dropping items to divert your attention while another person steals your belongings.
“Motochorros”: Thieves on motorcycles, known as “motochorros,” are notorious for snatching bags, phones, and backpacks, sometimes even from taxi passengers.
Scams: Be wary of common scams, such as someone spraying a substance on you and then offering to help clean it (while robbing you), or placing items like dishcloths over your phone on a table and then stealing both. Another tactic involves placing items on your windshield at intersections to make you lower your window, creating an opportunity for theft.

High-Risk Locations for Petty Crime:

Tourist Hotspots: Popular tourist areas like Florida Street, La Boca (outside of Caminito Street), Plaza de Mayo, Puerto Madero, and Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires are prime locations for pickpockets.
Transportation Hubs: Bus terminals, train stations, cruise and ferry terminals, airports, and subways are crowded places where thieves operate frequently. The Retiro bus station area in Buenos Aires is particularly known for petty crime.
Public Spaces: Hotel lobbies, restaurants (especially outdoor patios), and bars are also common locations for theft.

Protecting Yourself from Petty Crime:

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to people around you, especially in crowded areas. Be suspicious of strangers who approach you, including street vendors.
Minimize Visible Valuables: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cell phones, or headphones that can attract thieves.
Secure Your Belongings: Keep your bags and valuables secure at all times. Use bags that can be closed securely and wear them across your body. In public places and on public transport, keep your bag in front of you or between your feet.
Don’t Store Valuables in Overhead Bus Compartments: On long-distance buses, keep valuable items with you rather than in overhead compartments.
Credit Card Safety: Always ask restaurant and bar staff to bring the credit card machine to your table or accompany them to the machine when paying to prevent card skimming.
Avoid Checked Luggage for Valuables: Do not pack electronics or valuables in checked luggage when flying, as airport theft by organized groups is known to occur.

Violent Crime: Mugging and Armed Robbery

While less frequent than petty crime, armed robberies and muggings do occur in Argentina, particularly in urban centers. While most incidents do not result in physical injury, criminals may resort to violence if victims resist.

Staying Safe from Violent Crime:

Do Not Resist Robbery: If you are robbed, the safest course of action is to hand over your valuables without resistance. Your safety is more important than your belongings.
Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Refrain from walking alone after dark, especially in downtown areas of major cities and parks. Stick to well-lit and populated streets.
Report Crimes to the Police: If you become a victim of crime, report it to the police immediately and obtain a police report. The emergency number in Argentina is 911.

Vulnerable Neighborhoods: “Villas Miseria”

It is strongly advised to avoid visiting vulnerable neighborhoods, known as “villas miseria,” in major cities like Buenos Aires, even if they are located in tourist zones.

Risks in “Villas Miseria”:

High Crime Rates: These areas experience high levels of violence and organized crime.
Limited Police Assistance: Police presence and assistance are often limited in these neighborhoods, making them unsafe for tourists.

Drug-Related Crime

Drug trafficking and abuse have increased in Argentina, contributing to a rise in violent crime, particularly in Buenos Aires and Rosario.

Drug-Related Violence:

Unpredictable Aggressors: Violence is often perpetrated by individuals under the influence of drugs, making their behavior unpredictable and dangerous.
Increased Risk in Major Cities: Be especially cautious in Buenos Aires and Rosario due to drug-related crime.

City-Specific Safety Advice

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a major tourist destination. While generally safe, certain areas are hotspots for petty crime.

High-Risk Areas in Buenos Aires:

Congreso: The area around the National Congress building.
Constitución: The Constitución neighborhood.
Florida Street: A pedestrianized shopping street known for pickpockets.
La Boca: While Caminito Street is relatively safe during the day, avoid neighboring streets and the area after dark. Violent thefts are common outside of the main tourist drag.
Plaza de Mayo: The main city square.
Puerto Madero: The waterfront area, surprisingly prone to petty theft.
Recoleta Cemetery: The famous cemetery and surrounding Recoleta neighborhood.
Retiro Bus Station Area: Known for high levels of petty crime.
9 de Julio Avenue (around the Obelisk): The area around the iconic Obelisk monument.

Buenos Aires Tourism Prevention QR Code: The City of Buenos Aires offers a Tourism Prevention QR Code (in Spanish) providing safety information and resources.

Mendoza

Mendoza, a popular destination for wine tourism and outdoor activities, also experiences crime.

Safety Concerns in Mendoza:

Petty Crime and Muggings: Common in Mendoza, sometimes involving violence.
General San Martín Park: Be particularly aware of your surroundings in this large urban park.
Unpopulated Areas at Night: Avoid walking in unpopulated areas after dark.

ATMs and Currency Exchange Bureaus

ATMs and currency exchange bureaus (“casa de cambio”) can be risky locations for theft.

ATM and Currency Exchange Safety:

Criminals Targeting Users: Thieves may wait outside ATMs or currency exchange bureaus, or follow individuals after they withdraw or exchange money.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Remain vigilant when using ATMs or currency exchange bureaus.
Avoid ATMs at Night: Refrain from using ATMs after dark.
Use Official Exchange Bureaus: Stick to reputable and official currency exchange bureaus.
Prefer Indoor ATMs: Use ATMs located inside secure locations like hotels or supermarkets.

Theft from Vehicles

Theft from vehicles, especially rental cars, is a widespread problem throughout Argentina.

Vehicle Theft Prevention:

Park in Supervised Parking: Whenever possible, park in supervised parking lots or secure garages.
Don’t Leave Valuables in Cars: Never leave valuables in your car, including the trunk.
Keep Windows and Doors Locked: When driving, keep windows closed and doors locked at all times, especially when stopped at traffic lights, to prevent theft.

Kidnapping

While not a common occurrence, “express kidnappings” targeting tourists have been reported in Argentina.

Express Kidnapping:

Short-Term Abduction: Victims are typically abducted for a few hours and forced to withdraw money from ATMs for their release.
Remain Vigilant: While rare, be aware of this possibility and remain vigilant, especially in urban areas.

Tri-Border Area (Iguazú Falls)

When visiting Iguazú Falls, exercise increased caution when crossing the tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.

Tri-Border Area Risks:

Criminal Activity: This region is known for various criminal activities.
Cross Borders During Daylight: Plan your border crossings to occur during daylight hours and allow sufficient time to avoid rushing.

Demonstrations and Protests

Demonstrations and protests are frequent in Argentina and can sometimes become violent.

Demonstration Safety:

Roadblocks: Demonstrations often involve roadblocks, causing traffic disruptions.
Avoid Demonstrations: Stay away from areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Follow Local Authority Instructions: Comply with instructions from local authorities.
Monitor Local Media: Stay informed about ongoing demonstrations through local news outlets.
Never Cross Blockades: Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended, as this can be dangerous.

Strikes

Strikes are common in Argentina and can disrupt travel plans.

Strike Awareness:

Transportation and Public Service Disruptions: Strikes frequently lead to disruptions in transportation, public services, and both domestic and international flights.
Monitor Local Media: Stay informed about potential strikes that may affect your travel plans by monitoring local media.
Be Flexible with Travel Plans: Be prepared to adjust your travel plans at short notice due to strikes.

Safety for Women Travelers

Women hiking or cycling alone have reported assaults in Argentina.

Advice for Women Travelers:

Increased Vigilance: Women traveling alone should be particularly vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
Harassment: Women traveling alone may experience harassment and verbal abuse.

For more detailed advice, consult resources specifically for women travelers.

Safety for 2SLGBTQI+ Persons

While Argentina has made strides in LGBTQ+ rights, 2SLGBTQI+ persons may still experience discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Considerations for 2SLGBTQI+ Travelers:

Potential Discrimination: Be aware of the possibility of discrimination.
Research Local Attitudes: It’s advisable to research local attitudes and be mindful of public displays of affection in more conservative areas.

Refer to resources for traveling and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics.

Spiked Food and Drinks

Be cautious about accepting food or drinks from strangers.

Spiked Drink Awareness:

Never Leave Drinks Unattended: Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers.
Be Wary of Strangers: Be cautious when accepting snacks, beverages, gum, cigarettes, or anything else from new acquaintances or people on the street, as they could be spiked with drugs to facilitate robbery or sexual assault.

Online Dating Safety

Robberies have occurred after travelers invited new acquaintances met online to their accommodation.

Online Dating Precautions:

Be Aware of Risks: Exercise caution when using online dating apps in Argentina and be aware of potential risks.
Meet in Public Places First: Meet new acquaintances in public, well-lit places for initial meetings.
Don’t Invite Strangers to Your Accommodation Immediately: Avoid inviting people you’ve just met online to your accommodation until you know them better and feel comfortable.

Water Safety: Swimming

Coastal waters in Argentina can be dangerous due to riptides.

Swimming Safety:

Riptides: Be aware of the risk of riptides in coastal areas.
Rescue Services May Vary: Rescue services may not meet international standards in all areas.
Consult Locals and Tour Operators: Seek advice from residents and tour operators about potential hazards and safe swimming areas.
Follow Local Authority Warnings: Heed instructions and warnings from local authorities regarding water safety.

Adventure Tourism Safety

Adventure tourism is popular in Argentina, but safety standards can vary.

Adventure Tourism Advice:

Operator Safety Checks: Many operators may not conduct regular safety checks.
Hire Reputable Guides: If participating in adventure sports, always hire experienced guides from reputable companies. Never go alone.
Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation coverage.
Exercise Extreme Caution: Local authorities may have limited rescue capabilities, particularly in remote and high-altitude areas. Exercise extreme caution.
Update Emergency Information: Update your SOS or GPS emergency locator information and inform a family member or friend of your itinerary.
Physical Condition: Ensure you are physically fit enough for the planned activity and understand the symptoms of altitude sickness if relevant.
Proper Equipment and Information: Ensure you have proper equipment and are well-informed about weather and other potential hazards.
Stick to Marked Trails: Obtain detailed information on trekking routes and do not venture off marked trails.

Mount Aconcagua Climbing

For those planning to climb Mount Aconcagua, specific precautions are necessary.

Aconcagua Climbing Safety:

Contact Mendoza Tourism Agency: Contact the Mendoza Tourism Agency for detailed information before your climb.
Follow Park Itineraries: Adhere to the itineraries provided by the park authorities.

Soccer Game Safety

Attending soccer games in Argentina can be exciting, but sports events can sometimes lead to unrest.

Soccer Game Precautions:

Rowdy Behavior and Violence: Sports events can sometimes result in rowdy behavior and violent incidents.
Exercise Caution: Exercise caution if attending a soccer match. Be aware of your surroundings and potential crowd issues.

Argentina’s Borders with Chile and Bolivia

Winter weather can impact road safety at borders with Chile and Bolivia.

Border Crossing in Winter:

Winter Border Closures: Land border posts with Chile and Bolivia are regularly closed during winter (June–September) due to weather conditions.
Stay Informed on Weather Forecasts: Monitor regional weather forecasts before traveling to border areas.
Plan Accordingly: Adjust your travel plans to account for potential border closures.
Follow Local Authority Instructions: Follow the instructions of local authorities regarding border crossing conditions.

Road Travel Safety

Road conditions and road safety standards vary significantly throughout Argentina.

Road Safety Concerns:

High Traffic Accident Rate: Argentina has a high incidence of traffic accidents.
Driver Behavior: Some drivers may disregard traffic laws, including traffic lights, one-way signs, and speed limits.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Caution: Pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers should all exercise caution on Argentine roads.

Transportation Safety

Airport/City Transfers in Buenos Aires

When arriving at Buenos Aires’ Ministro Pistarini International Airport, use only official taxis for transfers.

Airport Taxi Safety:

Official Taxi Stands: Go to an official taxi stand in the arrivals area to arrange transportation. Avoid unofficial taxi offers.

Taxis in General

Taxis are a common mode of transport.

Taxi Safety Tips:

Hailing Taxis: Hailing black and yellow taxis on the street is common.
Taxi Apps in Buenos Aires: In Buenos Aires, consider using a taxi application for safer booking.
Driver Identification: Note the driver’s name on their picture identification badge.
Avoid Sharing Taxis with Strangers: Do not share taxis with people you don’t know.
Exact Change: Try to pay with exact change, as some taxi drivers may try to give counterfeit bills as change.

Ridesharing Services

Ridesharing services are available in Argentina.

Ridesharing Safety:

Use Trusted Apps: Use reputable ridesharing apps.
Confirm Driver Identity: Before getting in, confirm the driver’s identity and license plate match the app information.
Don’t Share Rides: Avoid sharing your ride with other passengers you don’t know.
Use Security Features: Utilize app security features to share your ride status with a contact.

Subways, Buses, and Trains

Public transportation requires a SUBE card.

Public Transportation Safety:

Pickpocket Awareness: Be especially vigilant against pickpockets on subways, buses, and trains.
Prepare for Work Stoppages and Strikes: Public transportation can be affected by work stoppages and strikes, leading to delays.

Air Travel Safety

There are no specific assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines in Argentina with international safety standards readily available.

Air Travel Considerations:

General Safety: While no specific alerts are mentioned, it’s always wise to be aware of general air travel safety practices.

Entry and Exit Requirements for Argentina

Entry and exit requirements are determined by Argentine authorities and can change.

Passport Validity:

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Argentina.
Check with Transportation Company: Transportation companies may have stricter rules regarding passport validity, so check with them before travel.

Visas:

Tourist Visa: Not required for many nationalities, including Canadians, for tourist stays.
Business Visa: Not required for many nationalities for business visits.
Student Visa: Required for studying in Argentina.

Other Entry Requirements:

Biometric Checks: All passengers, regardless of citizenship, undergo biometric checks (digital fingerprints and photograph) upon entry and exit.
Return/Onward Ticket and Proof of Funds: Customs officials may request to see a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Dual Citizenship:

Canadian-Argentine Dual Citizens: Dual citizens may leave Argentina on their Canadian passport if they entered on it within the previous 180 days. After this period, they must use an Argentine passport to exit.

Children and Travel:

Minors Born/Residing in Argentina: Minors (under 18) born or residing in Argentina need written authorization from non-accompanying parents to leave the country. They also need proof of parentage for the accompanying parent.

Yellow Fever:

Vaccination Not Required for Entry: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is generally not required for entry to Argentina from most countries, unless you are arriving from a yellow fever risk country. However, vaccination may be recommended depending on your itinerary and travel history (see health section below).

Health Information for Travel to Argentina

Consult a health professional or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including:

Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
Diphtheria
Tetanus
Pertussis
Polio
Varicella (chickenpox)
Influenza

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

Discuss the following with your healthcare provider:

Yellow Fever:
- Risk exists in certain parts of Argentina.
- Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary, particularly if traveling to jungle areas or regions bordering countries with yellow fever risk.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Centers are available in Canada.
Hepatitis A:
- Risk is present in Argentina due to potential food and water contamination.
- Vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
- Practice safe food and water precautions.
Hepatitis B:
- Risk exists in every destination.
- Vaccination is recommended for all travelers, especially those potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids (medical procedures, sexual contact, etc.).
- Practice safe sex and avoid unsterile medical or cosmetic procedures.
Measles:
- Highly contagious. Ensure you are protected against measles before traveling internationally.
COVID-19:
- COVID-19 is still a risk.
- Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series before travel, including recommended booster doses.
- Check Argentina’s specific COVID-19 entry/exit requirements before travel.
Influenza (Flu):
- Flu occurs year-round, with seasonal peaks.
- Get a flu shot at least 2 weeks before travel.
Rabies:
- Rabies is present in wildlife, including bats.
- Vaccination may be recommended for travelers working with wildlife or engaging in activities with higher animal contact risk.
- Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched by an animal.

Safe Food and Water Precautions

Prevent illness by following safe food and water practices:

Eat and Drink Safely: Follow the principle: “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!”
Avoid Contaminated Water: Be cautious with tap water, ice, and uncooked foods washed in tap water. Drink bottled or boiled water.
Swimming in Fresh Water: Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater sources, as they may be contaminated.
Travelers’ Diarrhea: Risk is present. Practice strict food and water safety. Carry oral rehydration salts.
Typhoid: Risk exists, particularly in rural areas and for those visiting friends and relatives. Consider typhoid vaccination, especially if traveling to areas with poor sanitation.

Insect Bite Prevention

Protect yourself from insect-borne diseases:

Insect Repellent: Use insect repellent on exposed skin.
Clothing: Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
Minimize Exposure: Reduce exposure to insects, especially during peak biting times (dusk and dawn for mosquitoes).
Mosquito Nets: Use mosquito netting when sleeping in non-air-conditioned or unscreened accommodations.

Specific Insect-Borne Diseases:

Chikungunya: Risk exists. Spread by mosquito bites. Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Dengue: Risk exists throughout Argentina. Spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. No vaccine available. Protect against mosquito bites.
Zika Virus: Risk exists. Spread by mosquito bites and sexually transmitted. Can cause birth defects. Pregnant women should discuss risks with their healthcare provider and consider postponing travel. Prevent mosquito bites and practice safe sex.
American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas Disease): Risk exists, spread by triatomine bugs (“kissing bugs”). Risk is low for most travelers. Use mosquito nets if staying in poorly constructed housing, especially in rural areas.

Animal Precautions

Avoid contact with animals to prevent animal-borne diseases:

Avoid Animal Contact: Do not touch or feed animals, including pets, stray animals, monkeys, bats, etc.
Undercooked Wild Game: Avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Supervise Children: Closely supervise children around animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce the risk of person-to-person infections:

Stay Home if Sick: If you are ill, stay home to avoid spreading infection.
Cough and Sneeze Etiquette: Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette (into a tissue or elbow).
Handwashing: Wash your hands frequently.
Avoid Crowds: Limit time in crowded spaces, especially during flu season.
Avoid Close Contact with Sick People: Maintain distance from people showing symptoms of illness.
Safe Sex Practices: Practice safe sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox.

Medical Services and Facilities

Quality of Care: Good healthcare is available in Buenos Aires, but may be limited elsewhere.
Medication Availability: Certain medications may not be readily available.
Payment: Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment. Ensure you have access to sufficient funds or travel insurance that covers upfront medical costs.
Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and hospitalization.

Laws and Culture in Argentina

Respect local laws and customs.

Drugs

Severe Penalties: Penalties for drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, including jail sentences and heavy fines.

Driving

International Driving Permit: Carry an International Driving Permit in addition to your valid driver’s license.

Dual Citizenship

Recognized: Argentina legally recognizes dual citizenship.
Limited Consular Assistance: Canadian consular assistance may be limited for dual citizens.
Entry/Exit Requirements: Dual citizens may be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Surrogacy

Unregulated: Surrogacy is not legally regulated in Argentina, and arrangements may be considered illegal by local authorities.
Legal Challenges: Parents pursuing surrogacy may face legal and practical difficulties with birth certificates and leaving the country with infants.

International Child Abduction

Hague Convention: The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and Argentina. This convention can assist parents in returning children wrongfully removed or retained in violation of custody rights.

Money

Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS).
Credit and Debit Cards: Accepted in major cities. Ensure your card remains in sight during transactions. Photo ID may be required for credit card payments.
ATM Withdrawals: Cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts at ATMs have low limits per withdrawal and per day. Substantial service charges may apply. Check with your bank before traveling.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations

Climate Change

Impacts: Climate change is affecting Argentina, leading to more frequent extreme weather events that can disrupt travel plans. Monitor local media for updates.

Wildfires

Risk: High temperatures and dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires, particularly during dry seasons.
Transportation Disruptions and Air Quality: Wildfires can cause transportation disruptions and poor air quality due to smoke.
Stay Away from Affected Areas: Avoid wildfire areas, especially if you have respiratory conditions.
Monitor Local Media and Authorities: Stay informed and follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders.

Seismic Activity

Earthquakes: Certain provinces (San Juan, Mendoza, Salta, Jujuy, Tucuman) are in seismic zones and prone to earthquakes. Border crossings may close after earthquakes.
Volcanoes: Volcanoes in the Andes region (border with Chile) can erupt, causing evacuations and air travel disruptions due to ash. Volcanic debris can also cause flooding.
Earthquake/Volcano Safety: Monitor local news and follow instructions from authorities in case of seismic or volcanic activity.

Flooding

Seasonal Flooding: Northern provinces are prone to seasonal flooding, which can disrupt overland travel and essential services. Roads may become impassable.
Flash Floods: Heavy rains can cause flash floods in the province of Buenos Aires.
Stay Informed: Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

By staying informed about these Argentina travel alerts and taking necessary precautions, you can significantly enhance your safety and enjoy a memorable trip to this captivating country. Remember to prioritize your well-being, be aware of your surroundings, and respect local customs and laws.