Street crime, scams & driving hazards in Argentina: what actually happens

Argentina is a genuinely welcoming country to visit, and most trips go smoothly — but street crime, aggressive traffic, and a few scam patterns are common enough that it pays to be alert rather than complacent. The honest picture: petty theft and opportunistic robbery are the main risks, not violence against tourists who take basic precautions.

Is Argentina safe for tourists?

Street crime is a real issue in urban areas including Buenos Aires City and province, Rosario, and Mendoza — pickpockets and muggers work streets, restaurants, hotel lobbies, and public transport. Within Buenos Aires, San Telmo, La Boca, Retiro, and Florida Street see higher crime rates; La Boca has had daytime violent robberies even in its tourist zone, so stick to main streets and use radio taxis. Avoid villas (shanty towns) even if they're near tourist areas. Skip expensive clothing or jewelry to avoid drawing attention. Watch for "motochorros" — pairs on motorcycles where one drives while the other grabs bags, watches, or reaches into cars.

What scams should I watch for?

Drug-facilitated robberies are increasingly reported: thieves have used dating apps to arrange meetups before drugging and robbing victims, and similar incidents have happened at bars with strangers. Be cautious at ATMs too — some victims have been forced to withdraw cash at multiple machines until cards were maxed out. Passport theft is also frequently reported to the U.S. Embassy, so carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp and leave the original in your hotel safe. At bus stations — especially Retiro in Buenos Aires and the Mendoza terminal — keep luggage in sight rather than in overhead compartments, where thefts are common.

What about getting around safely?

Use only officially marked taxis or official public transport; at Buenos Aires's Ministro Pistarini International Airport, use the arrivals-area taxi stand. A SUBE card is required for subways, buses, and trains. On buses or minivans, choose larger, newer vehicles over overcrowded or top-heavy ones. Always wear a seatbelt and sit in the back seat of cars and taxis; wear a helmet on motorbikes or bicycles.

Is driving in Argentina risky?

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for healthy U.S. citizens abroad, and driving here is riskier than in the U.S. — drivers are often aggressive and ignore traffic rules, particularly in Buenos Aires. You'll need an International Driving Permit plus your U.S. license to drive legally. Avoid night driving due to poor lighting, especially rurally, and note that gas stations can be spaced far apart and hard to spot from the road. Never drive after drinking, or ride with someone who has; hiring a licensed local driver is a safer option.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to enter Argentina? U.S. citizens don't need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days, but a valid (not expired or damaged) passport is required — otherwise entry may be denied.

Is there a health risk I should know about? The CDC has a Level 1 notice for Andes virus (Hantavirus) in the region, though risk for most travelers is extremely low.

What if I need medical care outside a city? Emergency care may not be readily available or meet U.S. standards outside urban areas, so medical evacuation insurance is worth considering.

Sources

• Argentina International Travel Information
• Argentina - Traveler view | Travelers' Health | CDC
• Argentina Country Security Report
• Travel advice and advisories for Argentina