Argentina Health and Safety

Don't let anyone tell you otherwise: despite the public's constant dissatisfaction with its government and a lumbering economy that gives rise to occasional crime waves, Argentina remains one of the safest countries in Latin America. Most tourists who visit Buenos Aires leave happy and unscathed. Outside the big cities, serious crime is rare.

In general, the biggest dangers in Argentina are speeding cars and buses: be careful crossing streets, and never assume you have the right of way as a pedestrian. If you're sensitive to cigarette smoke, be aware that Argentines are truly addicted to nicotine: they'll light up in banks, post offices, restaurants, cafes and everywhere else. Other small concerns include air pollution (in big cities), cracked sidewalks, ubiquitous dog turds and the occasional hole in the ground. Stray dogs are common, but usually don't bite.