Argentina has achieved much over the
last ten years to bolster policing of the main tourist
regions, and as long as you apply good common sense, we
would venture to say that Buenos Aires and its tourist
districts and other tourist destinations in Argentina
are safe. However, poverty and its many social ills, and
narcotics all have their evil envoys beneath the veneer
of the more ‘civilised’ side of society.
Buenos Aires is relatively safe city with isolated gun
crime and violence within the criminal social structures
and local police beat the streets and provide a fine
deterrent. Don not let that nonchalant, podgy, fag-in-mouth
facade fool you. Approximately 80% of crime is petty
opportunism and confidence trickery. Violent crime is
rare, but as most of the world is on the increase and we
get the impression that the ‘heat’ turned up by
paramilitary policing activity in countries further
north is sending the mafia south.
Nevertheless, it is important to remember there are
thieves who spend their on the lookout for those that
have that fresh-off-the-boat-look. Always protect your
valuables and keep your passport and tickets at your
apartment or hotel – do not carry them around with you
guys, and take one credit card, a few bills - dress down,
you are on holiday.
Emergency Guide
In case you do get into any sort of trouble, anything
from loss of passport, to theft, to a medical emergency,
please consult our Emergency Guide. <Click here> and
read our emergency guide and telephone number taken
directly from official sources
Buenos Aires Safety
The Buenos Aires barrio of La Boca has seen a number of
thefts of valuables just a few blocks away from the
famous street Caminito. Take special care when you are
in this area.
Palermo is suffering significant street crime. You
should not give anyone the opportunity to stop you
without good reason and you should you receive a
question in Spanish late at night – head up, stride but
do not run unless approached with speed then run
knocking doors and shouting at the top of your voice. If
approached with menace, you hopefully have taken our
advice, remain calm immediately empty your pockets so
they are visibly empty and handover your one credit card
and a few bills – do not carry a handbag or rucksack at
night if you can avoid it.
Men, avoid the honey-trap – especially when a beauty
wants to throw her arms around your waste for no
apparent reason other than your good looks she is after
more than your crown jewels.
The tourist attractions have their adept conmen – no
violence, just distraction. The bird pooh on your back,
the smiles and close up talking mean that your valuables
are at risk and their colleague is in your pocket or
backpack.
Taxi Travel
You find Taxis all over Buenos Aires. Taxis in Buenos
Aires are yellow, black, and all clearly marked and have
a meter. If they fail to switch on the meter, do not pay.
In general, it is completely safe to travel by taxi in
Buenos Aires, but recently there have been some problems
so late at night ask your hosts for a radio taxi or use
those cabs chosen by nightclub bouncers. If you are at
all concerned, go to the nearest hotel and take a taxi.
Female Travellers
Argentina is a safe country for women to travel. Besides
a few quick come-ons and the old “chamuyo”, by the local
men, women are generally safe. We recommended for women
to leave their jewels at home and not wear
expensive-looking jewellery. Use radio taxis if you are
dressing-up.
Senior-Citizen Travellers
Argentines revere and respect their elders and in
Argentine culture and there is no reason not to travel
to Argentina. Get yourself to Buenos Aires!

