Do you want to visit Buenos Aires, but have yourself wondering, “is Buenos Aires safe?” Are you daydreaming of eating delicious meat and empanadas, visiting a tango show, and walking down the colorful streets of La Boca, but are afraid of the bad rep Buenos Aires gets for being unsafe? Maybe you’re debating studying abroad in the largest city in South America, but have safety concerns.
You’re in luck! This article will calm your fears about exploring Buenos Aires and give you practical local advice for staying safe in Buenos Aires.
So, is Buenos Aires Safe?
Yes, Buenos Aires is generally safe, but you have to be a bit more cautious than what you may be used to.
Relative to other Latin American countries, crime rates in Argentina are low. Crime in the country mainly consists of petty theft. Violent crime, although it occasionally happens, is not really a concern. This makes Argentina viewed as one of the safest countries in South America. As of October 2022, the United States travel advisory ranks Argentina as level 1, which is the best score you can get.
A lot of tourists I met here in Buenos Aires have told me that they feel perfectly safe in the city. They didn’t understand why Buenos Aires has such a negative image when it came to safety.
But sometimes unwanted things happen in Buenos Aires, and as with many other big cities, you always have to be on the lookout. Porteños (Buenos Aires locals) are always aware of their surroundings, making sure their cell phones aren’t out, and take extra precaution on crowded buses or public transportation. That’s why I compiled a list of the top 10 safety tips that locals here follow, so you can stay safe on your next trip to Buenos Aires.
10 Safety Tips from a Porteño
1. Don’t go outside with your phone in hand
Or anywhere in sight. The best spot for your phone is somewhere hidden in a bag, purse, or fanny pack. Somewhere no one can see it and potentially snatch it from you…
If you do need to check your phone on the streets of Buenos Aires, try to avoid using it in crowded places, and make sure you always check your surroundings for suspicious people before pulling it out. Even better, try to go into a nearby store before using it.
2. Don’t be flashy
To stay safe, you want to blend in as much as possible, and avoid any unwanted attention to yourself and your belongings. Don’t wear expensive jewelry or any other expensive items. I left most of the jewelry I wear everyday at home. I only brought a pair of earrings so my holes don’t close.
3. Only carry essentials with you outside
When going out take only the amount of cash and cards you need. Leave your passport and other valuables somewhere safe where you’re staying. You don’t want to take the risk of them being stolen.
4. Wear your bags in front of you
Especially in crowded places. If you’re wearing a crossbody bag, also keep it in front of you rather than to your side or behind. You’ll see many people doing this, so don’t feel silly when walking around like a pregnant woman. For extra protection you can also use anti-theft bags.
5. Avoid Slums (Villas)
Villas (pronounced vee-shas) are the slums in Argentina, and, as a tourist, you definitely don’t want to find yourself there.
Villas are easily recognizable. They have roofs made from tin, lots of poverty, and narrow streets. Often times, police officers don’t enter these areas, which make them even more dangerous. If you see something like the image on the left, avoid it at all costs.
Villas near tourist spots to avoid:
- 31: near Recoleta, north of Puerto Madero
- Rodrigo Bueno: near Puerto Madero and La Boca
6. Don’t walk alone at night
You have to be extra careful at night in Buenos Aires. I always took an Uber or a taxi in the evening to avoid walking in the streets for an extended period of time, even if I was with my fiance.
If you do walk at night, try to always have someone with you while you’re out and about. Walking with a buddy makes you less of a target. Additionally, stay on well-lit main avenues with other people, and avoid smaller side streets that may be empty.
7. Be cautious when eating at a table outside
If you’re at a restaurant or bar and are sitting outside near the street, the same rules for the street apply. Make sure your bags are on you, always be aware of your surroundings, and never leave your phone on the table.
8. Keep the windows up when in a car
Sometimes robbers may try and snatch something out of your car through the window. To avoid this happening, roll up your windows when driving or being driven. At least so an arm can’t get through and take away your brand new cellphone.
9. Keep an eye out for motorcycles
Motochorros, robbers on motorcycles, are common in Buenos Aires. They use their motorbikes to give them a speed advantage over their victims. They’ll pull up to their prey on the street and snatch their phone, bag, or other targeted item off of them. As I mentioned above, they do this to cars as well.
Not all motorcyclists in Buenos Aires are motochorros, however if you do see a suspicious motorcycle, you want to be extra careful. Stay off the curb or try going into a nearby store. If you’re in a car, roll up your windows and hide your valuables.
Here is an example of a motochorro robbery (watch at your own risk).
10. Be safe and have fun!
Buenos aires is a wonderful city and is definitely worth visiting either on its own or as a starting point to exploring the incredible country of Argentina. Despite the safety issues that come with the current economic crisis, it’s filled with breathtaking architecture, crazy good meat, beautiful parks and so much more. You won’t regret experiencing everything Argentinian culture has to offer in the country’s fun and bustling capital.
Bottom line is: Most likely nothing will happen to you as long as you follow these local-approved safety tips.
Have you ever been to Buenos Aires? If so how did you feel? Let me know in the comments below!
Until next time,
Take a shans (safely!)
