Buenos Aires is the vibrant and culturally packed capital of Argentina. Known for its sensual tango, breathtaking architecture, and picturesque scenery, the city is any traveler’s dream. Its mouth-watering street food and colorful nightlife make Buenos Aires a must-visit destination. This may leave you wondering, “is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?”
You’ll uncover all that and more, right here. But first, here’s a bit of a background. Buenos Aires is also the country’s hub for politics, culture, business, and economic prosperity. Plus, it hosts a variety of people from neighboring countries. As a result, the city is a melting pot of different nationalities, and this is reflected in its diverse society.
Now, you’re probably thinking about how safe you’ll be on your trip to Buenos Aires. This guide has all you need for a safe and fabulous trip. Who knows, you may even find a great coworking space in Buenos Aires.
Why Visit Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is often called the Paris of Latin America for its beautiful palaces and bustling city centre. You can explore the pristine buildings and take in the history when visiting the city.
When hunger strikes, you’ll have numerous options to choose from. If you want to be spoiled for choice, then the Central Market is the place to go. With multiple food options, you’re sure to be satisfied.
For more artistic and historic adventures, Buenos Aires has over 100 museums. Some are focused more on Latin American art, while others are focused on world-famous icons such as the Beatles. If you still want your fix of art and an Instagram-able experience, visit the Floralis Generica. It’s a stainless steel flower that opens its flowers daily and closes them at night.
Is It Dangerous
Though a few places would be rated as dangerous, overall, it’s a safe country. Buenos Aires is one of the safest cities to visit in South America, ranking 3rd. It’s also classed as safer than some U.S. cities.
That said, there are numerous scams that people run on tourists in the hopes of gaining something. This is something to be aware of when you visit. Buenos Aires has several scams and schemes that have become the norm, however, none of these makes it a dangerous place.
You’ll just have to be aware of these so you can be on full alert when traveling there. The street vendors may also attempt to run a scam on you that will result in you missing some items. They may ask you for help or attempt to offer theirs while someone else subtly takes your things.
You should avoid using your phone when waiting for public transport and in public vehicles, as it may be snatched by pickpockets. Your back pockets are also a cause for concern. Avoid putting anything in them if you wish to hold onto your belongings.
In addition, women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community should be advised that there is a risk of verbal harassment, particularly at night. To avoid this, try going out with other people. If traveling alone, be wary of the areas you frequent in the evenings. However, you will unlikely find yourself in a dangerous situation unless you’re in a particularly dangerous place.
It’s also advisable that you’re constantly with someone or a group if you don’t know your way around. It’s safe for solo travelers, but more attention is drawn to you when you’re alone. This may make you a target for muggers.
Dangerous Areas In Buenos Aires
Villa Rodrigo Bueno
One of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods is Villa Rodrigo Bueno in the city’s southern district. Located on the outskirts, Villa Rodrigo Bueno is in the poorer parts of the country and is often ranked as unfit for tourists due to its unpredictability. We suggest you avoid going to this area entirely, especially by yourself or at night.
In fact, all of the Villas are to be avoided, as a trip there may result in an unsavory experience. There isn’t a lot of law being enforced in these areas, so the police will only prove ineffective should something happen.
Barracas
Barracas is also located in the southern district and is mildly safer than the Villas. However, its surrounding areas are what make it such a concern for safety. Barracas is surrounded by freeways, and this is said to make it dangerous during the nighttime.
These make it easier for thieves to operate in the dark and catch people off guard, especially people in vehicles. Despite this, it’s still a good place to go as a tourist. Just ensure you go during the day and don’t draw any extra attention to yourself.
Is It Safe To Live In Buenos Aires
The city offers several neighborhoods for you to live in and enjoy the Latin American lifestyle. The northern section of Buenos Aires is typically where many good-paying jobs are and this is where people tend to live. As a result, your safety as a resident won’t be brought into question.
With all new places, you’ll need to learn how things work and the minor things to look out for. Overall, it is safe to live in Buenos Aires. There are numerous areas that are safe and highly enjoyable, making it an excellent choice.
Public transport is also safe to use. In fact, you’d be in the minority if you were to get a car. And driving in the city is truly only for those who can handle its fast-paced and sporadic nature. Aside from the pickpockets, the public transport system is reliable and safe. There are also ride-sharing apps to make use of.
The streets of Buenos Aires are filled with coffee shops and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for future residents. Depending on which neighborhood you pick, the neighboring ones will also be perfectly safe to explore and enjoy.
Safe Areas in Buenos Aires
Palermo
Palermo is in the northern region of Buenos Aires. It’s on the larger side and is broken down into two large areas, Palermo Hollywood and Palermo Soho. These two regions are quite literally night and day. Hollywood has more of a nightlife-vibe to it, as it’s brimming with bars and cafes that come alive at night. And Soho has more restaurants, boutiques, and cafes that are active during the day and quieter in the evenings.
Hollywood borders Soho, making either of them a good choice. As a result of its duality, Palermo is great for living and vacationing, making it the ideal neighborhood.
Read more: Check out Argentina’s best places to live.
Recoleta
Also located in the northern district, Recoleta is the wealthiest neighborhood in the city, with members of government and Argentinian aristocracy residing there. This region is home to countless luxury hotels, eateries, and high-end stores. There are also a host of national monuments in this neighborhood, making it easier for you to go and explore.
One of the city’s most famous attractions, the Recoleta Cemetery, is also there. It’s a picture of ancient Latin American architecture, and many people flock to the cemetery to take in its beauty and saunter through the maze of columns and graves.
Centro
Centro is a neighborhood in the north made up of many others, mainly Montserrat and San Nicolas. San Nicolas is the business center and is very busy during the week, making it quieter on the weekends. The Avenida 9 de Julio, known as the street that never sleeps, is filled with theatres and buzzing with the city, and it is quite a sight in the evening.
Due to it being such a city center, it has numerous hotels and hostels to choose from. All of these accommodations are rich with the city lifestyle and conveniently located for your comfort and convenience.
Warnings & Dangers in Buenos Aires
There are many pickpockets, and petty theft is likely, so you would do well to guard your belongings. It’s easy to fall prey to these crimes because of the swiftness in which they happen. So be on alert.
The city is also known to have thieves who are on motorcycles grab bags and phones from people while riding past. They will likely be at intersections and crowded areas waiting for an opportunity. Also, be careful at ATMs, and be swift and discrete.
Argentina is known for having political demonstrations that have turned violent in the past. These are not something that can be timed, although some prior research on the current state of affairs will help you avoid this.
Overall Travel Risk: 4/10
With the threat of being pickpocketed and scammed, we would rate Buenos Aires as a medium travel risk. The city isn’t rife with crime, nor is it a hub for danger. Like any place, it has its pockets of trouble, but overall it’s nothing to be concerned about. If you stay in areas where crime is less likely and remain vigilant, you should have a stress-free trip.
Risk of Mugging
A mugging is only likely to get violent if you’re being confronted by a criminal and you choose to resist them. They don’t happen often in Buenos Aires, although there are areas in the city where it is more likely to happen.
Stay alert, and should you be confronted, remain calm and comply. We know the last thing you want to do is go somewhere and have your belongings taken, however, rather that than you gambling with your life.
Violent Crime
It is improbable that you’ll be met with any violence while in the city. If you steer clear of the more dangerous neighborhoods, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. If you find yourself in the more dangerous parts of the city, ensure you are with other people and don’t draw too much attention to yourself.
You won’t be met with these threats in the safer parts of the city. You’ll be dealing with more lower-level crimes like pickpocketing, which is a nuisance but one that can be handled.
Traveling While Female
Females are at risk of being catcalled and, in some instances, followed. If you plan on traveling alone, this is something to take heed to. Although the city is safe for solo female travelers, it has its faults.
The men of Buenos Aires won’t hesitate to make a pass at you if you’re a woman. The flirting style in Argentina involves a lot of machismo from the men, so, they tend to assert their manliness, and may take your disinterest as flirting. Be firm and direct but still respectful when turning them down.
Tips for Staying Safe in Buenos Aires
As a traveler, we recommend familiarizing yourself with areas you’ll frequent and being aware of your surroundings. Be especially on alert when you’re doing something that would distract you, like clubbing.
This can make you vulnerable, especially when drinking. We know it’s not easy to be on alert constantly, but treat it the way you would any new place you’re becoming acquainted with. To help you, here are five safety tips for visiting Buenos Aires:
- Don’t be flashy. Try not to wear any flashy clothing or jewelry. Avoid things that will make you stand out and draw any unnecessary attention to you.
- Try not to be too loud. By speaking loudly, you can draw unwanted attention to yourself and alert people of what you’re discussing or that you’re a foreigner.
- Don’t broadcast your confusion. Don’t make others aware that you’re lost or confused when on the street. If you can, enter a store and ask someone in there for assistance.
- Leave valuables in your room. Don’t go out with your passport. Leave it in your room and have a scanned copy on your phone.
- Have fun, but not too much fun. It’s best to keep your wits about you so that you don’t become a target. So have fun and drink, just don’t do it to the point of being unable to function.
Is Buenos Aires Safe│Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel with children?
Yes. Buenos Aires is very safe for children and is filled with many activities for them to do. To put your mind at ease about traveling with a child, stay in the designated safe areas.
Are taxis safe to take?
Taxis are somewhat of a gamble as you may not know if your driver is licensed. You can run the risk and go with a cab because you won’t get fined if they get found without a license. They are typically safe. Just be prepared to pay more and take a more scenic route as a foreigner.
Are there any cultural practices you need to be aware of?
No. There aren’t any cultural practices that you need to be aware of or even practice. Buenos Aires is filled with diverse groups of people due to immigration, so it doesn’t hold any expectations on visitors.
When is the best time to go to Buenos Aires?
The best time to visit Buenos Aires would be the warmer months or during spring, around September to November. You’ll be able to do more and see more. March to May is also a good time to go, the weather is typically mild.