Is Buenos Aires Safe? A Surprising Look at Its Low Crime Rates

"Is Buenos Aires safe?" It's a loaded question that often sparks debate. Our parents might instantly picture us being whisked away by tango-dancing pickpockets, while seasoned travelers on TripAdvisor forums insist it's as safe as any major U.S. city. So, what's the real story?

My wife Sarah and I just returned from a 10-day adventure in the Paris of South America. As a travel writer and safety expert, I'm here to share how we assessed Buenos Aires' safety and our honest experiences navigating this captivating metropolis.

Let me introduce ourselves: I'm West Parker, a 45-year-old travel writer with a penchant for luxury experiences and a keen eye for safety. My better half, Sarah, is my partner in crime (figuratively speaking, of course) and fellow food enthusiast. We're that middle-aged couple from Florida who've turned our passion for travel into a full-time gig, working remotely and exploring the world one city at a time.

In this article, I'll walk you through our three-step process for evaluating Buenos Aires' safety and share our firsthand experiences in the city's diverse neighborhoods. From my solo wanderings through colorful La Boca to our late-night tango adventures in San Telmo, we'll cover it all. And for my fellow foodies out there, don't worry – I've got plenty of mouthwatering (and safe) recommendations coming your way.

So, grab a mate (that's Argentine tea, not a friend – though feel free to bring one along) and let's dive into the real Buenos Aires!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we set foot in Argentina, we did our homework. Here's our three-step process for assessing Buenos Aires' safety:

01- State Department Travel Advisory

First stop: the U.S. Department of State website. Their travel advisory system uses a scale from 1 (exercise normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). As of July 2024, Argentina, including Buenos Aires, sits at a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

Now, before you cancel your empanada-tasting tour, let's put this in perspective. Many popular European destinations like France and the UK also have a Level 2 rating. The advisory for Buenos Aires mainly warns about petty crime and suggests being extra vigilant in tourist areas and on public transportation.

I'll admit, seeing that yellow "Exercise Increased Caution" banner made me a bit nervous. But after comparing it to other major cities and reading the specifics, I felt reassured. It's all about context, folks!

State Department Check: PASS (with a side of caution)

02- Latest News

Next, we dove into recent news about Buenos Aires. Economic challenges have been a recurring theme, with inflation being a hot topic. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find no recent reports of serious crimes targeting tourists in popular areas.

One piece of news caught our attention: Buenos Aires has deployed an additional 1,500 police officers to high-crime areas in the past year. While this initially raised an eyebrow, we realized it demonstrated the city's commitment to improving safety.

We also learned about an increase in dengue cases, prompting us to pack extra mosquito repellent. Always good to be prepared!

Current News Check: PASS

03- Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the wisdom of the crowds. We scoured TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads for recent traveler experiences. The consensus? Buenos Aires is generally safe for tourists who exercise common sense precautions.

Many travelers shared stories of wonderful experiences, with only a few mentioning minor incidents like attempted pickpocketing. One comment stuck with me: "I felt safer walking around Palermo at night than I do in some parts of New York City."

Of course, we took these opinions with a grain of salt, but the overall positive sentiment was encouraging.

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Buenos Aires

With our research done, we were ready to experience Buenos Aires for ourselves. Here's a neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown of our safety experiences:

Palermo

Ah, Palermo – the neighborhood that stole our hearts (and a good chunk of our pesos). This trendy area is divided into sub-barrios, each with its own unique flair.

We stayed in Palermo Soho, and let me tell you, we felt completely at ease walking around day and night. The tree-lined streets, vibrant street art, and quirky boutiques gave the area a relaxed, bohemian vibe.

One evening, we realized we had absent-mindedly walked 20 blocks back to our hotel after a late dinner, phones in hand, without a care in the world. That's when it hit us – we felt safe here.

Don't miss:

• Grabbing a coffee at Café Registrado
• Exploring the weekend markets at Plaza Serrano
• Indulging in a wine tasting at Pain et Vin

Is Palermo Safe? YES, with normal precautions

Recoleta

Recoleta, with its Parisian-style architecture and upscale boutiques, exudes an air of old-world elegance. We spent a sunny afternoon exploring the famous Recoleta Cemetery (yes, we're those tourists who enjoy wandering around cemeteries).

While the area felt very safe, we did notice more tourists here, which naturally attracts pickpockets. We kept a close eye on our belongings, especially around the cemetery entrance and the weekend artisan fair.

A local tip we received: beware of the "bird poop" scam. Apparently, some crafty individuals will squirt a white substance on you and then offer to help clean it off – all while an accomplice picks your pocket. Luckily, we didn't encounter this, but it's good to be aware.

Don't miss:

• The awe-inspiring Recoleta Cemetery
• A leisurely lunch at Café La Biela
• Art browsing at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

Is Recoleta Safe? YES, but be aware of pickpockets in tourist hotspots

San Telmo

San Telmo, the oldest barrio in Buenos Aires, oozes charm with its cobblestone streets and antique shops. By day, it's a bustling area popular with tourists and locals alike. The famous Sunday market along Defensa Street was a highlight of our trip – though we did keep our belongings close in the crowds.

At night, San Telmo takes on a different character. While we felt comfortable walking along the main streets, some of the narrower, poorly lit alleys gave us pause. We opted for taxis when returning from late-night tango shows, just to be on the safe side.

One evening, we got a bit turned around after leaving a milonga (tango hall). A group of local youngsters noticed our confused faces and not only gave us directions but walked us to the main street to ensure we found our way. It was a heartwarming reminder of the friendliness of porteños (Buenos Aires locals).

Don't miss:

• The Sunday San Telmo Market
• A authentic tango show at El Viejo Almacén
• Mouthwatering parrilla (grilled meats) at La Brigada

Is San Telmo Safe? YES during the day, EXERCISE CAUTION at night

La Boca

La Boca, home to the famous colorful Caminito street, was the one area where we felt we needed to be extra cautious. The main tourist strip is lively and well-policed during the day, but step a few blocks in any direction, and the atmosphere changes quickly.

We visited on a sunny afternoon, sticking to the main areas and following the advice we'd read about not flashing valuable or straying from the tourist path. The vibrant buildings and tango dancers in the street created a festive atmosphere, but we remained alert.

A funny moment: while taking photos, we were approached by a man in a Maradona soccer jersey offering to pose with us. Thinking it was just a friendly local, we agreed – only to be asked for money afterward. Not a scam per se, but a reminder to always clarify expectations!

Don't miss:

• The iconic colorful buildings of Caminito
• Watching a match at La Bombonera stadium (if you're brave!)
• Enjoying traditional Argentine cuisine at El Obrero

Is La Boca Safe? EXERCISE CAUTION, stick to tourist areas and visit during daylight hours

Puerto Madero

Puerto Madero, the modern face of Buenos Aires, felt like stepping into a different city altogether. This former port area, with its sleek high-rises and upscale restaurants, is now one of the safest districts in the city.

We enjoyed a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, marveling at the contrast between the old dockside cranes and the contemporary architecture. Even late at night, the area felt well-lit and secure, with a visible police presence.

The crown jewel of our Puerto Madero experience was crossing the iconic Puente de la Mujer (Women's Bridge) at sunset. The only danger here was almost dropping my phone while trying to capture the perfect Instagram shot!

Don't miss:

• A stroll across the Puente de la Mujer
• Fine dining with a view at Chila
• A visit to the fascinating Fortabat Art Collection

Is Puerto Madero Safe? YES, one of the safest areas in the city

Microcentro

The bustling heart of Buenos Aires, Microcentro is where business, politics, and tourism converge. By day, the streets are a hive of activity, with office workers, shoppers, and tourists mingling in the shadow of historic buildings.

We felt safe exploring the area's landmarks during business hours, though the crowds did keep us on our toes regarding pickpockets. The famous Calle Florida, a pedestrian shopping street, was particularly busy – and a prime spot for purse-snatching, according to warnings we'd read.

After dark, parts of Microcentro become eerily quiet as the office crowd heads home. We found ourselves quickening our pace a bit when walking through these deserted streets, opting for better-lit main roads when possible.

Don't miss:

• The historic Café Tortoni for coffee and people-watching

• A photo op at the Obelisco
• The impressive architecture of the Palacio Barolo

Is Microcentro Safe? YES during the day, EXERCISE CAUTION at night

Buenos Aires by Foot and Uber

One of the joys of Buenos Aires is how walkable many of its neighborhoods are. We found ourselves strolling for hours, taking in the architecture, street art, and café culture. However, we did make some adjustments to ensure our walks were safe and enjoyable.

Tips for safe walking in Buenos Aires:

• Stick to well-lit, busy streets, especially at night
• Keep valuables out of sight – no flashy jewelry or visible expensive cameras
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas
• Use a cross-body bag worn to the front to deter pickpockets
• Trust your instincts – if an area feels unsafe, leave

For longer distances or late-night journeys, we often opted for Uber. The service was reliable, affordable, and felt very safe. All our drivers were professional and used the app's GPS, so there was no worry about being taken on a "scenic route."

We used Uber for:

• Airport transfers
• Late-night returns from tango shows in San Telmo
• Trips to outlying neighborhoods like La Boca
• Rainy day journeys (those sudden downpours are no joke!)

One Uber ride stands out in my memory. Our driver, upon learning we were tourists, gave us a impromptu history lesson about each neighborhood we passed through. It was like having a private tour guide – and a reminder of the warmth of the Argentine people.

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 5-day itinerary that balances must-see sights with safety considerations:

Day 1: Palermo

• Morning: Explore Palermo Soho's street art and boutiques
• Afternoon: Relax in the Bosques de Palermo (Palermo Woods)

• Evening: Dinner at Don Julio, one of the city's best parrillas

Day 2: Recoleta and Retiro

• Morning: Visit Recoleta Cemetery and the nearby museums
• Afternoon: Shop along Avenida Alvear
• Evening: Enjoy a performance at the iconic Teatro Colón

Day 3: San Telmo and La Boca

• Morning: San Telmo Market (if it's Sunday) or antique shopping
• Afternoon: Quick visit to La Boca's Caminito (stick to the main tourist area)
• Evening: Tango show in San Telmo (take an Uber back to your hotel)

Day 4: Microcentro and Puerto Madero

• Morning: Explore Plaza de Mayo and the surrounding historic buildings

• Afternoon: Walk down Calle Florida to Puerto Madero
• Evening: Sunset stroll and dinner in Puerto Madero

Day 5: Day trip to Tigre

• Take a break from the city with a boat tour of the Tigre Delta
• Return to Palermo for a farewell dinner at Proper, a hip spot in an old mechanic's garage

Remember, this itinerary focuses on the safer areas of the city and avoids late-night adventures in less secure neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts

So, is Buenos Aires safe? After our 10-day adventure, our answer is a resounding "yes, but..." Yes, Buenos Aires is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it requires common sense and awareness.

We never felt threatened during our stay, but we also never let our guard down completely. The key is to stay alert without letting safety concerns overshadow the joy of exploring this vibrant city.

Here are our top safety tips for visiting Buenos Aires:

• Use official radio taxis or ride-sharing apps instead of hailing cabs on the street
• Keep valuables in your hotel safe and only carry what you need for the day
• Learn basic Spanish phrases – it goes a long way in building rapport with locals
• Be cautious when using ATMs, preferably use those inside banks during daylight hours
• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safer neighborhoods like Palermo or Recoleta
• Use a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents and extra cash
• Be wary of common scams like the "mustard trick" or bird dropping ploy
• Trust your instincts – if a situation feels off, remove yourself

Remember, the vast majority of visits to Buenos Aires are trouble-free. By taking these precautions, you're free to immerse yourself in the city's rich culture, indulge in its world-class cuisine, and dance the night away to the rhythm of tango.

Buenos Aires captured our hearts with its passionate people, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering steaks. Don't let exaggerated safety concerns keep you from experiencing the magic of this South American gem. Pack your bags, bring your street smarts, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the Paris of South America!

About Us

West Parker, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, has spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this 45-year-old "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about.

My wife Sarah, a culinary enthusiast and fellow safety-conscious traveler, brings her own expertise to our adventures. Together, we've explored six continents and 32 countries, always with an eye for exceptional experiences and a keen awareness of safety considerations.

Our goal is simple: to help everyone travel better and safer. We believe that with the right information and a dash of street smarts, the world becomes your oyster (or in Buenos Aires' case, your grass-fed steak). By reading our articles, you get the win-win of expert insights and real, on-the-ground experiences. We make the mistakes so you don't have to!

Safety in Buenos Aires: A Deeper Dive

Now that we've covered the basics, let's delve into some specific aspects of safety in Buenos Aires that every traveler should know.

Historical Context

Buenos Aires has come a long way in terms of safety. In the early 2000s, following a severe economic crisis, crime rates in the city spiked. However, over the past two decades, the situation has improved significantly.

According to official statistics, the homicide rate in Buenos Aires is approximately 6.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, lower than many U.S. cities. This puts it on par with cities like Brussels or Frankfurt in terms of violent crime.

However, petty crime remains a concern. Numbeo's crime index for Buenos Aires is 57.46, indicating a moderate level of crime. For context, this is similar to Athens or Prague.

Seasonal Variations and Events

We visited Buenos Aires in the spring (October), which is generally considered a good time in terms of safety. The weather is pleasant, allowing for comfortable exploration, and tourist areas are well-populated without being overcrowded.

Summer (December to February) sees an influx of tourists, which can lead to an increase in petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in popular areas. However, it's also when the city is most alive, with numerous outdoor events and festivals.

Winter (June to August) can be quieter, with fewer tourists. While this can mean less petty crime, it's important to be more cautious in less populated areas.

One event to be aware of is the Superclásico, the soccer match between rivals Boca Juniors and River Plate. While it's an incredible spectacle, emotions run high and there can be outbreaks of hooliganism. If you're in town during a match, enjoy the atmosphere but be cautious about wearing team colors or getting caught up in rowdy crowds.

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

Buenos Aires welcomes a diverse range of visitors, and safety considerations can vary depending on your travel style:

Solo Travelers: Buenos Aires can be a great city for solo exploration. Stay in well-reviewed hostels or hotels, join free walking tours to meet people, and be extra cautious at night. Expat.com's Argentina Forum is a great resource for solo travelers looking to connect with others.

Women Travelers: While Buenos Aires is generally safe for women, some female travelers report experiencing street harassment, particularly catcalling. Exercise normal precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and consider using women-only rideshares when available.

LGBTQ+ Visitors: Buenos Aires is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in neighborhoods like Palermo and San Telmo. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Argentina since 2010. However, public displays of affection may attract attention in more conservative areas.

Families: Buenos Aires is generally family-friendly, with plenty of parks, museums, and activities for children. Stick to well-populated areas and be vigilant in crowded tourist spots.

Travelers with Disabilities: While improving, accessibility can be challenging in Buenos Aires. Many older buildings lack ramps, and sidewalks can be uneven. The city's official tourism website provides information on accessible attractions and transportation.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding local customs and culture can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip:

1. Punctuality: Argentines are generally relaxed about time. Arriving 15-30 minutes late to a social engagement is common and acceptable. However, be on time for business meetings and organized tours.
2. Personal Space: Argentines tend to have a smaller personal space bubble than many North Americans or Northern Europeans. Don't be alarmed if people stand closer to you in conversation or in lines.
3. Greetings: The cheek kiss (one kiss on the right cheek) is a common greeting between women and between men and women. Men usually shake hands. Following the local greeting customs can help you blend in.
4. Mate Culture: Mate, a traditional Argentine tea, is often shared communally. If offered, it's polite to accept, but it's okay to decline if you're uncomfortable sharing.
5. Politics and History: Some topics, like the Falklands/Malvinas issue, can be sensitive. It's best to listen rather than offer opinions on controversial subjects.
6. Soccer Passion: Soccer (fútbol) is taken very seriously. Avoid wearing rival team colors, especially on match days.

Emergency Information

Despite our best precautions, emergencies can happen. Here's some crucial information to have on hand:

Emergency Numbers:

• General Emergency: 911
• Police: 101
• Ambulance: 107
• Fire Department: 100
• Tourist Police: +54 11 4346-5748

Reputable Hospitals:

• Hospital Alemán: Av. Pueyrredón 1640
• Hospital Británico: Perdriel 74
• Hospital Italiano: Juan D. Perón 4190

Embassy Contact Details:

• U.S. Embassy: Av. Colombia 4300, (54-11) 5777-4533
• UK Embassy: Dr. Luis Agote 2412, (54-11) 4808-2200
• Canadian Embassy: Tagle 2828, (54-11) 4808-1000

Personal Safety Anecdote

One experience really drove home the importance of being prepared while still keeping an open mind. On our third day in Buenos Aires, Sarah and I decided to explore the San Telmo Sunday market. The streets were packed with locals and tourists alike, browsing antiques and enjoying street performances.

As we stopped to watch a particularly energetic tango demonstration, I felt a slight tug on my back pocket. Thanks to our pre-trip research, I was wearing a dummy wallet with a few low-denomination bills and an expired credit card. My real wallet was safely tucked away in a hidden pocket.

I turned quickly to catch the would-be pickpocket red-handed. Instead of the hardened criminal I half-expected, I found myself face-to-face with a sheepish-looking teenager. Our eyes met, and in that moment of mutual surprise, he mumbled "Lo siento" (I'm sorry) and disappeared into the crowd.

This incident reinforced two things for us:

1. The importance of being prepared and taking precautions.
2. The reality that many petty crimes are crimes of opportunity, often committed by desperate individuals rather than organized criminals.

We continued to enjoy the market, feeling more vigilant but not fearful. This balance, we found, was key to our positive experience in Buenos Aires.

Digital Safety

In our increasingly connected world, digital safety is just as important as physical safety. Buenos Aires has seen a 25% increase in cybercrimes over the past two years. Here are some tips to stay safe online:

1. Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
2. Be cautious about using public computers or charging stations.
3. Enable two-factor authentication on your important accounts.
4. Be wary of ATM skimming devices. Use ATMs inside banks when possible.
5. Keep your software and antivirus programs updated.

Transportation Safety

Getting around Buenos Aires safely is crucial for an enjoyable trip. Here's what we learned:

Subte (Metro): The Buenos Aires Metro is generally safe and efficient, but be aware of pickpockets during rush hours. We found it to be a great way to avoid traffic and cover longer distances quickly.

Buses: The extensive bus network can be confusing for tourists, but it's a cheap way to get around. Use the SUBE card for payment to avoid fumbling with cash. We used the helpful "Cómo Llego" app to navigate the bus system.

Taxis: Look for black and yellow cabs with "Radio Taxi" on the top. Always ensure the meter is running. We had good experiences with taxis, but preferred ride-hailing apps for the added security of GPS tracking and driver ratings.

Ride-hailing Apps: Uber and Cabify are available and generally considered safe. We used these frequently, especially at night or when we were unsure about the safety of an area.

A Note on Currency and Economic Situation

Argentina's economic situation can impact safety in indirect ways. High inflation and a complex currency situation (including an official exchange rate and a parallel "blue dollar" rate) can create confusion for tourists.

We recommend:

1. Bringing USD or EUR to exchange at reputable places for better rates.
2. Being discreet when handling cash, especially large amounts.
3. Being aware that counterfeit bills are a problem – always check your change.
4. Using credit cards where possible, but be prepared for some places to offer discounts for cash payments.

Final Recommendations

After our 10-day adventure, we can confidently say that Buenos Aires is a city that rewards those who come prepared but open-minded. It's a place where tango music spills out of century-old cafes, where soccer is a religion, and where the steak is always perfectly cooked.

Is it perfectly safe? No city is. But with the right precautions and a healthy dose of street smarts, the biggest danger in Buenos Aires is falling so in love with the city that you'll never want to leave.

So pack your sense of adventure (and a secure money belt), brush up on your Spanish, and get ready to explore one of South America's most captivating capitals. From the colorful streets of La Boca to the leafy avenues of Palermo, Buenos Aires is waiting to steal your heart – just don't let it steal your wallet!

Remember, the goal isn't just to stay safe; it's to experience the rich culture, passionate people, and unforgettable moments that make Buenos Aires truly special. Stay alert, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy every moment in this beautiful city.

¡Buen viaje! (Have a good trip!)