Argentina Safety Tips: Scams, Areas & Emergency Numbers

How safe is Argentina?

Argentina is one of South America's more comfortable destinations for travelers. Most trips to Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Bariloche or Iguazu pass without incident. The main risk is petty theft and street scams, not violent crime. Use normal big-city caution and you will be fine.

Common scams to know

• The mustard or ketchup trick in Buenos Aires: someone "accidentally" sprays you, a helpful stranger offers to clean it, and your bag or wallet disappears. Keep walking and do not let strangers touch you.
• Counterfeit pesos: fake 1,000 and 2,000 peso notes circulate. Learn the security strip and check change from taxis and street stalls.
• Taxi overcharging: insist on the meter (reloj) or use the Cabify or Uber/DiDi apps. From Ezeiza airport, use the official Tienda Leon or a booked remis.
• The "blue dollar": changing money on the street (cuevas) gets a better rate than banks, but carries a risk of fake notes. Many travelers now use Western Union pickups or pay by card for safer rates.

Areas to be careful

• In Buenos Aires, avoid La Boca outside the few tourist blocks of Caminito, especially after dark, and steer clear of Retiro's villa 31 and Constitucion late at night.
• Once and parts of Flores can feel sketchy after hours.
• In Rosario, gang-related violence affects specific outer neighborhoods, not the riverfront tourist core, but stay alert.
• Keep phones out of sight on the subte (metro) and crowded buses.

Practical habits

• Carry a photocopy of your passport; leave the original in your accommodation.
• Split cash and cards between pockets and bag.
• Use a money belt for the blue-dollar wad if you change a lot at once.
• At cafes and restaurants, loop your bag strap around your leg or chair.

Emergency numbers

• 911 is the general emergency line in Buenos Aires and most provinces.
• 107 for ambulance (SAME), 100 for fire.
• Tourist Police (Comisaria del Turista) in Buenos Aires: 0800-999-5000, English-speaking.

Stay connected in Argentina

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