Argentina Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Argentina.

Argentina is generally a safe destination for travelers.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travelers’ Health Notice for Andes virus (Hantavirus) in the region. The risk for most travelers is extremely low. Review the CDC’s Travelers’ Health Notice for more information on Andes virus.

Petty crime occurs at times, especially in popular tourist locations and throughout Buenos Aires. Stay aware of your surroundings. Criminal and drug trafficking groups are active in Rosario (Santa Fe province) resulting in crime and violence.

Review our Travel Guidance for Argentina to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Argentina

Terrorist attacks in Argentina cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Political protests

Political demonstrations and picketing are more common in Argentina than in the UK. Some demonstrations attract large numbers of people, and they can occasionally turn violent. Demonstrations are particularly common near Congress (‘Congreso’) and the Presidential Palace (‘Casa Rosada’).

You should:

• avoid all protests, demonstrations and marches
• exercise normal caution at any large gathering
• be aware of your surroundings
• monitor the local news
• follow the advice of local authorities

There have also been occasional Falklands-related protests, including outside the British Embassy and British-affiliated businesses in Argentina.

Demonstrations

Groups of demonstrators (‘piqueteros’) sometimes block major roads at times of social unrest. These can include the major routes into and out of Buenos Aires City. This can cause significant delays.

When planning to travel:

• monitor the local news
• do not attempt to cross blockades
• follow the advice of local authorities

Risk level

Argentina - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Argentina.

Regional risks

Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in the Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires due to crime, including petty crime and muggings.

Rosario - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Rosario due to an increase in homicides linked to drug-related organized crime.

Enhanced security measures

Following renewed tensions in the Middle East, the Argentine government has raised the national security level. Enhanced security measures are in place for critical infrastructure, sensitive targets and Jewish institutions. This includes schools, clubs, places of worship, and the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA).

You should expect heightened security in public places as well as stricter checks at border crossings and points of entry.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse and cell phone snatching, occurs regularly.

Pickpocketers and bag snatchers work in pairs or in groups and employ a variety of distractions to divert their victim’s attention. In some cases, thieves on foot work with thieves on motorcycles, “motochorros”, to snatch purses, cell phones and backpacks sometimes even from a taxi.

Common theft scams include:

• distracting the victim by asking questions while another person carries out the theft
• spraying a substance on victims and then robbing them while pretending to help clean the stain
• putting merchandise such as dishcloths or socks on top of your phone at restaurants and picking up your phone along with the merchandise
• placing items on your windshield at traffic intersections to get you to roll down your window or to see what’s in your vehicle

Distraction thefts commonly occur in:

• popular tourist areas
• transportation terminals, including: bus terminals train stations cruise and ferry terminals airports subways
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants and bars, including patios

To avoid becoming a victim:

• be suspicious of strangers approaching you, such as street vendors
• avoid showing signs of affluence such flashy jewellery, cell phones, and headphones
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• keep your bag between your feet in public places and in front of you on public transportation
• don’t leave purses or backpacks containing valuables in overhead compartments of long‑distance buses
• always ask restaurants and bars to bring the credit card machine to your table or bring your card to the machine
• avoid packing valuables in checked luggage, because organized groups are known to operate at airports searching for electronics and valuables

Violent crime

Armed robberies and muggings occur. While most victims are not physically injured, criminals may use violence if victims resist.

• If you’re robbed, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance.
• Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in the downtown areas of major cities and parks.

If you’re a victim of a crime, inform the police and get a police report. The emergency number in Argentina is 911.

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