Travel Advisory
Please check your government's official travel advisory before departure. Situations can change rapidly.
Safety Level
Official risk level and travel advisories
Argentina is a rewarding and welcoming destination, but use normal caution. Petty theft and distraction scams occur in large cities such as Buenos Aires, especially in crowded tourist areas.
- Overall
- Generally safe and friendly for travellers
- Main risks
- Pickpocketing, bag snatching and scams
- Language
- Spanish is the main language
- Most visits to Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Iguazú and Mendoza are trouble-free, but stay alert in crowded areas and keep valuables secure.
- Take extra care with belongings on public transport and in busy districts, and check local guidance before travelling.
Danger Zones & Areas to Avoid
Regions with poor security or restricted access
There are no widespread no-go areas for tourists. Take extra care in some outer neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires and at night. Popular regions like Patagonia and Iguazú are generally calm.
- City edges
- Some outer Buenos Aires areas need care
- At night
- Avoid quiet or poorly lit streets
- Tourist regions
- Patagonia and Mendoza generally calm
- Stick to well-travelled routes in Buenos Aires and use registered taxis or ride apps after dark.
- Rural and natural areas such as Patagonia and Bariloche are generally safe, but plan ahead for remote stretches.
Natural Disaster Risks
Earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and other hazards
Argentina spans many climates. Patagonia is known for strong winds and sharp temperature swings, while the high Andes near Mendoza can bring altitude sickness. Some areas see flooding or wildfires.
- Patagonia
- Strong winds and big temperature swings
- Andes
- Altitude sickness at high elevations
- Seasonal
- Flooding and wildfire risk in places
- In Patagonia and Bariloche, pack warm, windproof layers and check mountain forecasts before hiking.
- When crossing the Andes or ascending near Mendoza, allow time to acclimatise and watch for altitude symptoms.
Health & Disease Risks
Endemic diseases and hygiene concerns
Healthcare in major cities like Buenos Aires is good. Tap water in urban areas is generally considered safe to drink, but choose bottled water if you are unsure or in remote areas.
- City healthcare
- Good private hospitals in Buenos Aires
- Tap water
- Usually fine in cities; bottled if unsure
- Altitude
- Take care in the high Andes
- Carry travel health insurance that covers hospital treatment, as private care can be expensive.
- In high-altitude areas near Mendoza and the Andes, ascend gradually and stay hydrated.
Crime & Scam Trends
Common crimes and scams targeting tourists
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the main risks, especially in busy parts of Buenos Aires. Distraction scams, such as spilling something on you then grabbing your bag, are reported.
- Most common
- Pickpocketing and bag snatching
- Scams
- Distraction tricks in crowded spots
- Money
- Be discreet with cash and cards
- Keep bags closed and in front of you on public transport and in markets, and avoid displaying phones or jewellery.
- Use official exchange points and ATMs in secure locations, and check current local advice on money.
Political Situation & Protests
Political instability and potential demonstrations
Argentina is politically stable, but occasional protests and strikes occur, mainly in Buenos Aires. Inflation and exchange rates can shift quickly, so check current guidance before you travel.
- Stability
- Broadly stable democracy
- Protests
- Occasional, mainly in Buenos Aires
- Economy
- Inflation and exchange rates can change
- Demonstrations and transport strikes can disrupt travel, so allow extra time and avoid large gatherings.
- Prices and money exchange can change fast due to inflation; see the currency section and check the latest local advice.
Local Laws & Prohibitions
Important local laws and penalties for travelers
Spanish is the main language. Tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary. Respect local rules and carry ID; check current entry and customs requirements before you travel.
- Language
- Spanish
- Tipping
- About 10% in restaurants
- ID
- Carry identification when asked
- A tip of roughly 10% is common in restaurants and cafes, and small change is appreciated for services.
- Rules on entry, currency and customs can change, so confirm the latest requirements with official sources before travelling.
Emergency Contacts
Police, ambulance, and fire department numbers
In an emergency, dial 911 for the unified service in most cities. You can also call 101 for police, 107 for an ambulance and 100 for the fire service. Save these before you travel.
- Unified
- 911
- Police / Ambulance
- 101 / 107
- Fire
- 100
- The 911 number works in Buenos Aires and many other cities; 101, 107 and 100 reach police, ambulance and fire directly.
- Keep a note of your accommodation address and your embassy contact for emergencies.
Embassy & Consulate Info
Location and contact details of your embassy
No embassy or consulate information is available for your selected nationality in this country.
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage and tips for choosing a policy
Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and activities. Private care in Buenos Aires can be good but costly, and Patagonia adventures may need extra cover.
- Medical
- Cover hospital treatment
- Activities
- Check trekking and high altitude
- Documents
- Carry your policy details
- Private clinics in Buenos Aires are good but can be expensive, so make sure your policy covers hospital treatment.
- Check the conditions for adventure activities, as standard policies may exclude trekking or high-altitude excursions in the Andes.