Argentina : Safety by CityTaking into considering the fact that it is one of the most densely inhabited cities in South America and the capital city of Argentina, Buenos Aires is the center of culture, beautiful architecture, unforgettable nightlife and glamorous tango.
Some of the must-see sights of Buenos Aires, among many, are Centro Cultural Kirchner, Parque 3 de Febrero, Santisimo Sacramento Basilica and Manzana de las Luces. The architectural attractions of Buenos Aires were built in the 20th century.
Food and football are also tremendously popular in Buenos Aires, and watching Boca Juniors playing the football match at La Bombonera is the utmost sports experience, especially if it is played against their rivals River Plate.
Warnings & Dangers in Buenos Aires
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpockets are standard occurrence, as in any other vast city, so be careful and pay attention to your belongings. Safety preventive measures are necessary and desirable.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
As in every capital city, there are taxis that have no license, so it is better to call a radio taxi from a place where you are staying at.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpockets are in constant pursue of possible preys, especially when smart phones are concerned. Be ready to defeat various strategies that they are using and look out your personal possessions.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
Rain can be the cause of floods, which is in turn, followed by the transportation issues and difficulties.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
Muggings are very frequent and in the case the victim confronts, muggers even tend to hurt the person using force. Kidnapping is not very often and it usually leads to the victim giving his or her money to the muggers and then is released.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
Terrorist attacks cannot be predicted, so you need to follow the advice given by the tourist guides, police or government.
SCAMS RISK : HIGH
Taxi drivers are very interested in overcharging and touring the city once they realize that tourist is not familiar with the city itself, in order to take as much money as they can. Your bag should always be near you, because of the bag snatching.You should be cautious to avoid being scammed by taxi drivers who usually tend to switch the bills. If you give them real bills, they will change them for fake ones and try to convince you that they are right. You should remain confident and if you happen to mention the police, they will recede.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women should not walk alone at night, due to the fact that they can catch attention of some undesirable people. Women can travel to Buenos Aires without any problems, but they need to be careful when in crowds and rural places.
So... How Safe Is Buenos Aires Really?
Bearing in mind the fact that it is a cosmopolitan city with a huge population and growing development, Buenos Aires is not so dangerous city. The safety index of 60% is the best indicator that tourists do not need to worry too much in case they decide to visit this great place.
As in any other capital, it is always essential to pay attention to your valuables and be wide awake in case you find yourself alone at night or in an isolated area. The Buenos Aires metro area has more than 12 million inhabitants and a huge number of socially vulnerable population, so you need to be vigilant, when your watches, jewelry and mobile phones are in question. Argentina’s justice system is broken, meaning that petty thefts are not prosecuted and the thieves do not go to jail. Thus, they are on the street, making their methods flawless.
However, there is no need for great concern. You only need to be aware that the fact that you are tourist attracts the lawbreakers for any kind of criminal act against you, and this is what you should take care of. Stay in a good neighborhood, do not wear expensive jewelry, although you may get a much better rate, do not exchange money on the grey market and always have in mind the fact that everyone in Argentina believes that Buenos Aires is the most dangerous city in the country.
Useful Information
- Visas - Tourists are not in obligation to have a visa for entering the country. Their passport is a valid documentation. However, visa is compulsory for some counties. Whether you need visa or not, can be found out on the site www.doyouneedvisa.com.
- Currency - The Argentine peso is the official currency in Argentina and ATM and Cash machines are available almost everywhere. Credit cards are also accepted, but you need to take care not to lose them.
- Weather - Buenos Aires climate is moderate which is characterized by cold and dry winters with frosts and hot summers with frequent thunderstorms.
- Airports - The busiest and largest airport is Buenos Aires-Ezeiza International Airport, with 85% of international traffic, and it is a hub for Aerolíneas Argentinas and LATAM Argentina international flights.
- Travel Insurance - Travel insurance is preferable and the insurance against theft is sincerely advised to the travelers. World Nomads is a firm travel insurance company which offers 24-hour emergency assistance for the tourist from 150 countries and their services also include the covering of stolen or damaged baggage.
I wanted to go to Buenos Aires last summer but my brother and mother talked me out of it. They said it was too risky. I want to go this year and once again, they are telling me not to. This time however, I am planning on going with a group of 6 that includes 4 men. I know we need to be aware of the risks but based on my research, if you know what you are doing and don’t travel alone, you will be fine.