Is it safe to travel to Buenos Aires in 2024?

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Overall Safety Score: 70
ISO: AR

In recent years, the question is Buenos Aires safe, has seen a more positive response as the city has made notable strides in improving safety for residents and tourists alike. Buenos Aires, a city celebrated for its culture and European-inspired architecture, is pulsating with the vibrant rhythms of tango and is becoming increasingly secure. So, how safe is Buenos Aires to travel? Visitors are often reassured by the enhanced security measures and declining crime rates, making it a more inviting destination than in the past. The city’s charm is evident in the historical Teatro Colón and the animated markets of San Telmo, and while safety in any major city is a complex issue, Buenos Aires extends a warm welcome to tourists, with its animated neighborhoods like Palermo and La Boca demonstrating a commitment to visitor safety.

Engaging in the gastronomic pleasures of Argentine asado, delving into the fervent football culture at La Bombonera, and wandering through the lush Bosques de Palermo are experiences made richer by the city’s focus on safety. Despite this, vigilance against petty crimes remains necessary. To understand ‘how safe is Buenos Aires to travel’, one must recognize that, with sensible safety practices, the city’s diverse attractions can be enjoyed confidently.

This guide provides critical insights for securely navigating Buenos Aires, emphasizing high-level safety concerns while allowing travelers to fully engage with the city’s vibrant character. Safety considerations, hand in hand with the pursuit of cultural richness, assure that your visit to Buenos Aires is as safe as it is memorable.

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Travel Risk Levels Buenos Aires


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Overall Risk Buenos Aires: Low

Buenos Aires presents varied risks for travelers, with a need for caution in busy urban areas and standard safety measures in place.

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Transport and Taxi Risk Buenos Aires: Low

In Buenos Aires, unofficial taxis may pose overcharging risks. It’s advisable to use reputable app-based services or verified radio taxis, particularly when traveling from places like Ezeiza Airport.

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Pickpocket Risk Buenos Aires: High

Crowded areas in Buenos Aires, notably Calle Florida and the vicinity of Obelisco, are hotspots for pickpockets. Tourists are often targeted, with distractions commonly used to facilitate theft.

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Physical Crime Risk Buenos Aires: Medium

Certain neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, especially outside the central areas, experience higher rates of mugging and armed robbery, particularly during the night. La Boca is known for such incidents post-tourist hours.

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Natural Disaster Risk Buenos Aires: Low

The risk of natural disasters in Buenos Aires is generally low, though heavy rains can occasionally cause urban flooding, affecting mobility and transportation.

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Terrorism Risk Buenos Aires: Low

Terrorism threat is considered low in Buenos Aires, but staying aware of global and local security updates is recommended.

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Scams Risk Buenos Aires: High

Buenos Aires has reported scams like distraction thefts and counterfeit currency exchanges. Tourists should be wary of unsolicited help or exchange offers in busy areas.

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Women Travelers Risk Buenos Aires: Medium

Women in Buenos Aires might face issues like verbal harassment or unsolicited attention, particularly in crowded public transport or nightlife districts.

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Tap Water Risk Buenos Aires: Low

While tap water in Buenos Aires is generally potable, some visitors prefer bottled water due to taste preferences or mineral content differences.

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Public Behavior Risk Buenos Aires: Low

Respectful public conduct is expected in Buenos Aires, with a general avoidance of excessive noise or disturbances, especially in residential neighborhoods.

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LGBTQ Acceptance Risk Buenos Aires: Low

Buenos Aires has a welcoming stance towards the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in areas like Palermo, but discretion is advised in conservative locales.

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Police and Officials Corruption Risk Buenos Aires: Medium

Reports of small-scale police corruption in Buenos Aires suggest a need for tourists to be cautious of bribery and aware of their legal rights.

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Business Risk Buenos Aires: Low

The business environment in Buenos Aires poses challenges like bureaucratic processes and market volatility, necessitating an understanding of local business practices and regulations.

For further information on Covid-19 or other requirements please visit: https://www.argentina.gob.ar/
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FAQs


Buenos Aires Travel FAQs

Is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?

Buenos Aires is generally safe for tourists, with a vibrant street life and a visible police presence in popular tourist areas. However, tourists should exercise caution with personal belongings and be aware of their surroundings.

Are there any particular areas of Buenos Aires that are considered unsafe?

Some areas of Buenos Aires are less recommended for tourists, especially after dark. Caution is advised in parts of the San Telmo and La Boca neighborhoods away from the main tourist streets.

What are the safest districts to stay in Buenos Aires?

The neighborhoods of Recoleta, Palermo, and Belgrano are considered among the safest for tourists, offering a variety of accommodations and amenities.

Are police officers and emergency services in Buenos Aires responsive?

The police and emergency services in Buenos Aires are generally responsive, and there are tourist police units specialized in assisting tourists. The emergency number in Argentina is 911.

Is there a tourist police service in Buenos Aires or any support service for tourists who experience crime?

Buenos Aires has a tourist police unit known as 'Comisaría del Turista' that offers assistance to tourists in multiple languages.

What medical services are available for tourists in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires has a range of medical services, including public hospitals, private clinics, and pharmacies. Tourists can access health care services, though travel insurance is highly recommended.

Do I need any particular vaccinations before going to Buenos Aires?

No specific vaccinations are required for Buenos Aires, but vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever may be recommended. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider before traveling.

How do I access a pharmacy or a doctor in Buenos Aires if I need one?

Pharmacies are abundant in Buenos Aires, and many are open 24/7. For a doctor, tourists can visit a 'guardia' (emergency room) in hospitals, or contact their hotel concierge for assistance in finding a medical professional.

What should I do if I find myself near a demonstration when in Buenos Aires?

Demonstrations are common in Buenos Aires. If you find yourself near one, it's best to leave the area and return to a safer place. Avoiding confrontation and maintaining a low profile is advised.

How can I ensure my accommodation is in a safe area of Buenos Aires?

To ensure your accommodation is in a safe area, research and select well-reviewed hotels or apartments in reputable neighborhoods, and consult travel forums or advisory services for the latest safety information.

Are nightclubs and late-night venues in Buenos Aires safe?

Most nightclubs and late-night venues in Buenos Aires are safe, but as always, it is important to stay vigilant, keep an eye on your drink, and travel in groups when possible.

Is it safe to walk back to my accommodation at night?

Walking back to your accommodation at night can be safe, particularly in well-lit and busy areas. However, using a reputable taxi service or ride-sharing app is often recommended, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

What facilities are available for children's safety in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires offers various child-friendly parks and recreational areas that are designed with safety in mind. Public spaces like the 'Reserva Ecológica' and 'Parque Tres de Febrero' are popular with families.

Are there any specific areas in Buenos Aires or attractions that are not recommended for children?

Most attractions in Buenos Aires are child-friendly. However, it's advised to avoid bringing children to demonstrations or to areas known for nightlife, such as certain bars or clubs.

Is it safe to cycle around Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires is becoming increasingly bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes ('bicisendas'). However, cyclists should remain cautious in traffic and lock bikes securely when not in use.

Are pedestrian areas well-marked and safe from traffic in Buenos Aires?

Pedestrian areas in Buenos Aires are generally well-marked and safe, with numerous pedestrian-only streets in the city center and traffic signals that are adhered to by most drivers.

Will the language barrier be an issue in emergencies in Buenos Aires?

In an emergency, the language barrier can be an issue. However, emergency services and tourist police will have some English-speaking personnel, and hospitals in more affluent areas are likely to have English-speaking staff.

Are there readily available translation services or apps that I can use in Buenos Aires?

Translation apps like Google Translate can be invaluable for overcoming language barriers. It's also possible to find local translation services through hotels or travel agencies.

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Weather


Annual weather in Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires

Argentina has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The average temperature in Argentina ranges from 7°C (45°F) in July to 25°C (77°F) in January. The wettest months are November to March, when rainfall can average over 200mm (8 inches) per month in some areas. The weather in Argentina can feel warm and sunny during the summer months and cool and crisp during the winter months. It is important to pack for all types of weather when visiting Argentina

Month Avg Temp (°C) Avg Temp (°F) Avg Rain (mm)
January 25.1 77.2 100
February 24.5 76.1 93
March 22.6 72.7 121
April 18.7 65.7 106
May 15.2 59.4 92
June 11.8 53.2 56
July 10.9 51.6 58
August 12.7 54.9 63
September 14.8 58.6 72
October 17.9 64.2 109
November 20.9 69.6 98
December 23.7 74.7 91

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