To avoid pickpockets in Argentina, particularly in Buenos Aires, prioritize situational awareness, keep bags in front of your body or secured, and avoid using smartphones on the street. Key tactics include using front pockets for valuables, ignoring distractions or strangers offering help, and using secure transportation at night.
For those hesitant to visit Argentina due to safety concerns, we firmly believe these worries should not stop you. Argentina is generally a safe country to visit as a tourist. Whilst there are higher risks of theft and petty crime, if you take the proper precautions, you should be completely fine.
Buenos Aires Safety Tips (Must watch before you go!)
Can I brush my teeth with the water in Buenos Aires?
Q: Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Buenos Aires? A: Yes, using tap water for brushing your teeth is generally considered safe in Buenos Aires, as the water is treated for personal hygiene purposes. If you have particularly sensitive digestion, using purified or bottled water is an option for added peace of mind.
Is it safe to walk around Palermo, Buenos Aires at night?
Walking alone at night can feel safe in lively areas such as Palermo Soho, Recoleta, and Puerto Madero, where restaurants and bars stay open late. However, quieter streets and less busy districts should generally be avoided.
Argentina and Chile—the two nations whose territories include Patagonia—are generally quite safe. However, common sense precautions are still important. When you travel away from the urban areas (e.g. Buenos Aires and Santiago) and into Patagonia itself, you will find that crime rates are virtually non-existent.
In Argentina, the 🤌 (pinched fingers) gesture typically means "Are you kidding me?!" or "What the heck?!" expressing disbelief, confusion, or asking "What's wrong with you?". It's a versatile gesture, often used with an upward-pointing cone of fingers moved up and down, to show surprise or frustration, similar to "¿Me estás cargando?" (Are you kidding me?) in Spanish.
Especially avoid cargo shorts – that's a guaranteed way to stamp yourself as a tourist! Secondly, know that singlets (vests), t-shirts and sports shirts are just for around the house. A plain t-shirt is okay, but most people will opt for a starched ironed shirt or polo when roaming about town.
You will feel out of place wearing baggy jeans and flannel. Solid, sober colors and earthtones fit in better than bright flashy prints. The key is to be neat and sleek. Outside of Buenos Aires, stick to jeans, khakis, more casual (but conservative in color and cut) clothing, especially if traveling with women only.
DON'T yawn or eat in public (on the street) – it's considered very rude. DON'T make the “OK” or thumb's up gesture – they are both considered vulgar. DON'T expect social occasions to begin on time – it's actually considered rude to arrive for a party on time.
Italy. Image Credit: Shutterstock. Italy continues to dominate European pickpocketing statistics, maintaining its position as the continent's most problematic destination for tourist theft. In 2024, there were over 2,000 reported robberies in Rome, a 51.3% rise compared to 2019.
Why is it illegal to put salt on the table in Argentina?
The Argentine salt obsession is so widespread (they consume almost 3 times more than the WHO daily recommended) that in 2011 the government actually made it illegal for salt to be put on the table in restaurants. The waiters of Buenos Aires have mostly chosen to ignore this law.
Avoid lower socioeconomic urban areas where crime is more likely to occur. Avoid empty streets, especially after dark. You should exercise a high degree of caution in the city of Rosario due to higher levels of drug-related crime and violence.
Although Argentina has no official language, the most widely spoken in the country is Spanish, which differs slightly from the variety used in Spain. English is also spoken along with more than 20 other languages.
Is it safe to wear an Apple Watch in Buenos Aires?
Do not wear flashy or expensive jewelry and watches or expose cameras, cell phones, or other expensive technology devices. Lock your passport in the hotel safe or your luggage and carry a photocopy of it. Do not carry large amounts of cash, and use ATMs in public places. If confronted, do not resist.
Salads and fruit are fine to eat, even if they have been washed, but only in big cities. In more remote places, avoid anything that could have been washed as the water here isn't drinkable.
Further south along the Argentine coast, you'll find the stunning beach of Mar de las Pampas. This hidden gem is known for its pristine white sands and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Avoid visiting vulnerable neighbourhoods (villa miseria) in major cities, including in Buenos Aires, even if they are in tourist zones. Violence and organized crime are prevalent in these areas and police assistance is very limited.
Pack heavy items at the bottom of your suitcase. Then squeeze your thinner, lightweight items inside and around the bigger ones. Limit your shoes. Choose just one pair for each activity you'll be doing.
The country code for Argentina is +54. International roaming rates can be uneconomical, be sure to check with your local carrier prior to your arrival. Consider downloading WhatsApp, a free internet-based texting and calling service to keep in touch with loved ones.
