If you can’t decide between mountains, rainforests, glaciers, and beaches, why not consider Argentina, which has all of that and more?
This South American country rides the spine of the Andes all the way to the Patagonia tip.
At the same time, the tallest mountain reaches nearly 23,000 feet in the air while the elevation drops to 344 feet below sea level on the way to the South Atlantic shoreline.
The culture is this fascinating mix of European and Indigenous influences spread across eight distinct regions.
Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area: The capital city and its surroundings form a unique urban region, blending cosmopolitan culture with historic charm.
Central Sierras: Centered around Córdoba, this region offers rolling hills, colonial towns, and outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding.
Cuyo: The wine country of Argentina, home to Mendoza, San Juan, and La Rioja.
Famous for vineyards, Malbec wine, and the Andes.
Gran Chaco: A sparsely populated, semi-arid region in the north known for its wildlife and remote landscapes.
Mesopotamia: Located between the Paraná and Uruguay rivers, it features lush wetlands and tropical climates.
Iguazú Falls and the Esteros del Iberá are major attractions.
Northwest (Noroeste): A region of dramatic landscapes, colorful mountains, and ancient indigenous culture.
Highlights include Salta, Jujuy, and the Quebrada de Humahuaca.
Pampas: The agricultural heartland, known for its flat plains, cattle ranches, and gaucho culture.
Buenos Aires and La Pampa are part of this region.
Patagonia: A vast, rugged region in the south known for glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
Key spots include El Calafate, Bariloche, and Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica.
Let’s be honest – there’s probably a decent chance you want to go to Argentina to see the penguins.
I get it.
The Magellanic penguin lives in large colonies in Patagonia and offshore islands.
Visit between September and April to get the best sightings.
If you’ve read the book Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors or seen the movie Alive, you might already know that Argentina is where Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crashed in 1972.
The crash site is now a memorial.
It is located in the Mendoza Province, and it requires a rigorous trek to reach it.
Advertencias y Peligros en Argentina
RIESGO GENERAL: MEDIO
Overall, Argentina is a country where you should mostly feel safe. Follow general rules of precaution and your common sense, and your trip should go smoothly. Argentina's main issue is petty crime on the streets, since its rate is pretty high.
RIESGO EN TAXIS Y TRANSPORTE: MEDIO
Transportation in Argentina is mainly convenient and safe, you can travel by trains, buses, so-called "colectivos" and taxis. Just be careful and pre-order a taxi instead of hailing one down on the street, since you might get overcharged for the ride. 'Radio Taxis' are easily spotted – they are black and yellow in the Capital, and white with blue letters in the Provinces. They are the safest option when it comes to taxis, especially in the capital. Airport taxis in Buenos Aires are white and blue.
RIESGO DE CARTERISTAS: ALTO
As mentioned, pickpockets and purse snatching are very common in Argentina, it is actually a constant risk. Cell phone snatching also happens so you should keep all your valuables out of sight. Avoid wearing purses and keep your money in a hidden place, not easily accessible by pickpockets. Also be wary of people trying to distract you, it might very well be a way to take your money.
RIESGO DE DESASTRES NATURALES: MEDIO
Unfortunately, Argentina is exposed to various natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and storms (pemperos) that can cause enormous flooding (usually hitting the pampas and the northeast). Volcanic activity is also typical for the Andes, near the border with Chile (the Copahue volcano, still active and sometimes causing evacuation of the residents).
RIESGO DE ASALTO: MEDIO
Even though violent crime is not common it does happen. Since muggings are not a rarity, if you do not cooperate when in such situations, the muggers might not hesitate to use force in order to take your valuables. This is why you shouldn't resist if such situation occurs. Hand over everything you own. Also, express kidnapping can occur, where tourists are taken for a few hours and forced to withdraw all their money from an ATM, and then released, usually without being harmed.
RIESGO DE TERRORISMO: BAJO
There haven't been any terrorist attacks in Argentina's recent history, but they shouldn't be ruled out. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
RIESGO DE ESTAFA: ALTO
As in any other tourist destination, scams in Argentina are a regular occurrence. Double check your change, since you might get tricked, negotiate everything in advance to prevent being ripped off, and avoid hailing taxis on the street since you might get overcharged in an unlicensed taxi.
RIESGO PARA MUJERES VIAJERAS: BAJO
For a female solo traveler, Argentina should be generally safe. You should know that in the evenings you might receive some unwanted attention and whistles by men, so you should probably avoid areas near bars and clubs, and go by taxi, not on foot. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit and deserted areas. Other than that, you should encounter no problems.
Lugares más Seguros para Visitar en Argentina
The country’s tourism website is www.argentina.travel.
Keep in mind there are 24 provinces, and there are plenty more tourism sites for specific regions and cities.
As the capital and largest city, Buenos Aires is the political, cultural, and economic heart of Argentina.
Home to about 15 million people in its metropolitan area, it’s known for its European-inspired architecture, vibrant tango culture, and neighborhoods like Palermo, Recoleta, and San Telmo.
The second-largest city, Córdoba, lies in central Argentina and is known for its colonial architecture and proximity to the Sierras de Córdoba mountains.
Located along the Paraná River, Rosario is Argentina’s third-largest city.
It’s famous for being the birthplace of Che Guevara and Lionel Messi.
The city boasts a strong arts scene, riverfront parks, and a thriving port economy.
While smaller in population than others, Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country and the gateway to the Andes.
That means plenty of outdoor activities, like hiking and rafting, and access to Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.
At 22,837 feet, it is about 2,500 feet higher than Alaska’s Denali.
Often called the «Garden of the Republic,» Tucumán is the largest city in the northwest.
It’s steeped in history as the site where Argentina declared independence in 1816.
Many people plan trips around the stunning national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Argentina.
Located in the subtropical rainforest on the border with Brazil, Iguazú National Park is home to the magnificent Iguazú Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular waterfall systems.
The park is rich in biodiversity, featuring rare species like the jaguar and harpy eagle.
Anyone going to Patagonia should put Los Glaciares National Park on their itinerary.
It features stunning glaciers, including the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, along with rugged mountains like Mount Fitz Roy.
Cueva de las Manos is an archaeological site in Santa Cruz Province that showcases ancient rock art created by hunter-gatherers dating back to 9,000 years ago.
Explore the Hill of Seven Colors in Quebrada de Humahuaca’s valley in the Jujuy Province.
Penguin lovers should head to Península Valdés, where Magellanic penguins mix with whale sightings and sea lions.
Lugares a Evitar en Argentina
While the U.S. State Department rates the country as «exercise normal precautions,» that advisory level is raised in two specific cities.
One of those locations is Buenos Aires.
Tourists are warned that specific streets and neighborhoods have higher crime rates.
Those include:
- San Telmo
- La Boca: If you do visit this neighborhood, don’t wander off of Caminito Street.
- Retiro: Watch out for bagged robberies around the bus station.
- Florida Street
- Any shanty town
Mendoza is also a high-crime area, with thefts and violent robberies all too common.
Avoid the area around General San Martín Park if possible.
Use caution at the bus station to protect your belongings from theft.
You don’t need to avoid Iguazu Falls, but the borders between Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina are high-crime areas.
Only visit during the daytime.
Tips de Seguridad para Viajar a Argentina
- Argentina has a federal police department, but you can also call 911 to get connected to the closest emergency services near you. Cities like Buenos Aires have Tourism Police to help with crimes against visitors. Check the police contact for any city you plan to visit.
- Download the app for Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN), Argentina’s National Meteorological Service, and you can check weather information and get real-time alerts.
- US Visitors should sign up for the STEP Program through the State Department, which will help you get alerts and information about disasters or unrest in any community. Always let your country’s embassy know that you’re visiting and what your plans are. Provide contact information in case you get lost or go missing.
- Give your body a day or two to acclimate to higher elevation if you plan to visit the mountains. Altitude sickness can start above 8,000 feet, and the only way to reduce symptoms is to lower your elevation. Check with your doctor before taking any long-term trek through the Andes.
- While the official language of Argentina is Spanish, there are heavy accents with some Italian influences that could make communication even more challenging. I have several friends who are pretty fluent in Spanish, left confused by the pace and articulation of the language during trips to Patagonia.
- If you are struggling with a language barrier, don’t use the «OK» or thumbs-up sign with your hands. In Argentina, those are offensive gestures.
- Avoid planning solo trips to glaciers, as most are off-limits to anyone without a registered tour guide. Due to the vast terrain and risks, a group tour is the safest way to explore these beautiful places.
- Check rental car insurance pricing before opting to drive yourself around the country. Also, be prepared for toll roads that expect cash payments. Your home country’s driver’s license should suffice, but an International Driving Permit is ideal.
- Freshwater fishing requires a license in Argentina, and you should check locally to see the exact rules and regulations. Saltwater fishing generally doesn’t need a permit, but independent tour operators could have different requirements.
- Hikers need to bring a GPS emergency locator with them and check that it works before they start the ascent. Information on local rescue teams is available for Mendoza, Bariloche, and El Chalten. Bring a paper copy of that information with you and store it somewhere safe.
Entonces… ¿Qué tan Seguro es Realmente Argentina?
Argentina is considered relatively safe for travelers, but like any country, it has areas where caution is advisable.
According to the U.S. Department of State, Argentina is rated at Level 1 for travel, meaning standard precautions are sufficient in most places.
However, as noted earlier, cities like Rosario and Buenos Aires are flagged for increased caution due to higher crime rates, particularly violent gang activity.
Crime statistics from 2023 indicate that theft and robbery are the most common crimes, with over 350,000 incidents reported.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are frequent in crowded urban areas like Buenos Aires, especially in tourist-heavy spots such as La Boca and San Telmo.
On the positive side, Argentina’s homicide rate remains low compared to global averages, at 4.62 per 100,000 people in 2021.
The government continues to focus on public safety, and most violent crimes do not target tourists.
Using standard safety precautions, learning Argentinean Spanish phrases, and staying aware of your surroundings are imperative for enjoying your time here.
The other risks are of the natural kind, but you will largely control that risk by being prepared, physically fit enough, and stocked up properly for your adventure.
I have two sets of friends who recently got back from long-term trips to the country, including Patagonia.
The only complaint they had was the language barrier.
¿Cómo se Compara Argentina?
| País | Índice de Seguridad |
|---|---|
| Argentina | 70 |
| Portugal | 57 |
| Afganistán | 14 |
| Albania | 75 |
| Argelia | 44 |
| Angola | 48 |
| Argentina | 70 |
| Buenos Aires | 60 |
| Córdoba | 61 |
Información Útil
Visados
Most countries do not need a visa in order to enter Argentina if the purpose of the visit is tourism. Your passport should be valid during the duration of your stay, so no additional validity is necessary. However, if you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Moneda
Argentine peso is the currency in Argentina. Avoid handling money near ATMs, you might get mugged. ATM's are commonly used and available throughout the country, and credit cards are mostly accepted in big cities as well as bigger hotels, restaurants, etc.
Clima
The climate in Argentina is mostly moderate, with cool, dry winters and humid, hot summers. January and February are the best months to travel to Argentina.
Aeropuertos
Ministro Pistarini International Airport, also known as Ezeiza International Airport (since it is located in the Ezeiza Partido in Greater Buenos Aires) is an international airport, 22 km south-southwest of Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. It is also the country's largest international airport.
Seguro de Viaje
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Argentina, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
Temperaturas medias en Argentina
Temperaturas máximas y mínimas
| Temperatura / mes | enero | feb. | marzo | abr. | mayo | jun. | jul. | agosto | set. | oct. | nov. | dic. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Máx. °C | 29 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 19 | 16 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 22 | 25 | 28 |
| Mín. °C | 21 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 19 |
| Máx. °F | 84 | 82 | 79 | 72 | 66 | 61 | 59 | 63 | 64 | 72 | 77 | 82 |
| Mín. °F | 70 | 68 | 66 | 59 | 54 | 48 | 46 | 50 | 52 | 57 | 63 | 66 |
Recommended !
We had 2 wonderful weeks in Argentina, visiting Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Cordoba and Iguazú.
Friendly people and a trip the cataracts of Iguazú is worth every penny. And the Argentilian beef is out of this world ! Enjoy it with a glass or two of the excellent Medoc wine. If you are a golfer, you should try the Cordoba Golf Club at Vila Allende.
Great month in argentina
I love Argentina, people its so friendly imo its like been in europe. Also i.e. buenos aires is more safe than Paris . Many people speaks english but knowing a bit of spanish could be great. The south of Argentina is amazing specially Tierra del fuego
Ciling
I love him
WARNING FOR WOMEN
DO NOT GO ALONE IF YOU’RE A WOMEN! This information for solo female travelers is extremely misguiding,there are many assaults and rapes towards women in Argentina especially in smaller cities, please be careful.
have you ever been sandy?
Same as small midwestern US towns mate, I don’t think you had ever visited this country.
For people considering moving to Argentina, where would an Argentinian recommend you live if you have a budget of $2000USD a month for an apartment. Also, how much are electric fees, cable TV, phone and internet service?
With 2000 USD you can live pretty much everywhere. I’d look for a nice apartment in recoleta or palermo in Buenos Aires.
84
A person’s success does not depend on his wisdom, but perseverance
Wrong Index
As Argentinian I can tell that a 70% Safe Index is a Lie.
The only place that could cover that rate is Capital Federal. Outside this place you could be killed only because you resisted to give your smartphone.
If you hear a motorcycle coming to you…start running or hide as better as you can.
Dear Friend, if you live in Argentina, clearly you live in Buenos Aires. Step into Patagonia, The Pampas, the North and no one will care about your phone. Just need to watch yourself in big and medium cities, outside those you can relax.
You are talking about the outskirts of Buenos Aires. Indeed, there are some areas in the «conurbano» that is better to avoid… even for us, locals. That being said, why would a tourist go to Lanús or Morón for example? Most tourists go to the City of Buenos Aires and then move on to any other tourist hot spot: Iguazú, Bariloche, El Calafate, Ushuaia, etc. And almost all those places are way safer than Buenos Aires (my beloved city).
My granny used to live in lanus as a child in the 50s and 60s until she moved to the country of her father, and grandparents, which is Britain (where I live and was raised).
Beautiful country, magnificent capital
I had visited all SA countriex except Venezuela and Argentina is not even close to be unsafe. Chile would be the only safer country right now. I got robbed at gun point in Montevideo.
I tought because of the crisis it would be different but Buenos Aires is just magnificent. Very well maintaned and safe city. You will feel like if you were in a western european capital. Way safer than Paris.
It’s basically the opposite to brazilian cities, even tough brazilians always brag about São Paulo and Río those cities are in complete decay, full of homeless (sometimes with tents all over like Skid Row), cables, abandoned buildings everywhere, danger in every corner and with the rich living in bunker towers while the middle class live in 35cm wide streets with no threes, full of graffities and fenced ugly houses.
If you wanna have the whole latin experience visit Brazil, if you like something more sofisticated visit Argentina!
Yo me Gusté Mucho de este país
Agree 100%
Lovely atmosphere
Wonderful and safe destination.
Nice!!!!
After backpacking trough South America I can tell than Argentina was the SAFEST place for us as youg women.
I strongly recommend Argentina as a safest destination for women. It’s way better than most of Latin America specially Urban hell’s like Brazil
Argentina IS NOT SAFE for women!
NOT SAFE, very dangerous
Too unsafe, reviews are fake, i suggest AVOID go there.
Beautiful country with many impressive attractions
I was in Argentina last year and from what I can tell it’s safe overall. Most cities and neighborhoods within cities are safe with some exceptions. Is it safe for women going alone? No, I wouldn’t say so. I wouldn’t recommend a single woman to come here because you will definitely attract the attention of some men that like to whistle or make you feel uncomfortable. And there’s more threats lurking for single women. But, if you come with a male friend or husband things are different.
Argentina has a big problem with pickpockets, especially in the more crowded cities. I think that I saw at least 6-7 pickpockets operating in Buenos Aires, last time I was there. They will target phones, bags, laptops, cars left open or any valuables they can easily and quickly grab and then make a run for it. Usually, if you pay attention you will see or feel them coming and avoid them. But sometimes, if you’re not careful you might lose something valuable. Someone tried to steal my phone but fortunately I was quicker and held my ground and they ran.
Now, let’s talk about some of the things one can visit in Argentina:
1. Iguazu Falls – this place is amazing! It’s breathtaking and you must visit it. Take lots of pictures and make some videos as this will be something you want to remember… This place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason.
2. Tierra del Fuego National Park – 156,000-acre!!! of beautiful nature awaits in this huge park. If you’re a hiker then this is your paradise right here. There are trails for all levels of experience so anyone can go. Or you can choose to see everything from the comfort of the Southern Fuegian Railway train.
3. Mendoza – One of the most beautiful cities from Argentina (and I may say the whole world) this Art Deco filled city will probably surprise you. I always wondered why this city is not more known?
4. Ushuaia: The End of the World – what can I say about this place? It’s a spectacular mix of plains, plateaus and the Andes and it will take your breath away. There’s a lot to see and visit in this area.
There are more but I would start with these 4.
Really Safe
I’ve felt super safe most of my time in Buenos Aires. Obviously. Like in every major city, there are some «tough» neighbors like Retiro or La Boca but if you just avoid them at night you will be fine. Patagonia is even better, nothing to envy about the safety in Canada.