Is Buenos Aires Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Buenos Aires, as a bustling city, possesses both safe and unsafe areas. Daytime travel is generally safe in most parts while some neighborhoods require extra caution, especially after dark. Street crime like pickpocketing, purse snatching, petty theft are potential risks, and as a solo female traveler, it's crucial to stay vigilant. Nevertheless, locals are friendly and ready to help. Always trust your intuition and use common sense when you feel uncomfortable about a situation or a place.

Safety rating

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How safe is Buenos Aires?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Buenos Aires has areas that are well-lit and crowded even at night, such as Palermo and Recoleta, where you may feel quite safe. Nonetheless, as a female solo traveler, it is recommended to exercise general caution. Certain parts of the city, like La Boca or San Telmo, should be avoided at night. Always use a reliable taxi service rather than walking alone especially in deserted or less touristy areas. Personal safety varies greatly by neighborhood and time of day.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Buenos Aires, such as buses and the subway system, is generally reliable and used by many local residents. However, as a solo female traveler, it is important to stay alert due to the risk of pickpocketing and unwanted attention, particularly during peak hours. Late at night, it might be better to opt for a taxi or rideshare service. Also, knowing some Spanish will be helpful in navigating the system.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

Buenos Aires is relatively safe for solo female travelers, but like most major cities, there can be incidents of street harassment. The locals are typically warm and welcoming, yet it's not uncommon for women to receive unsolicited attention on the streets in the form of catcalling or persistent compliments. Always stay vigilant, especially at night or in lesser populated areas.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Buenos Aires, like many large cities, has a certain level of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching. Tourists, particularly those who stand out and look lost or distracted, can be targets. However, by being cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded public places and tourist areas, you can significantly reduce the risk of being a victim.
Tap water:

Tap water:Safe

In Buenos Aires, tap water is generally considered safe to drink. The city’s water treatment system is highly regulated and extensive. However, taste and quality may vary depending on the area, and some travelers might take a bit of time to adjust to the mineral content of the water. As comfort and personal tolerance can be subjective, it could be beneficial to have bottled water at hand.

Is Buenos Aires safe to travel?

4.1 /5

Based on 24 experiences

Ana

Ana

Brazil

Solo travel experience

I am Brazilian, I stayed 30 days in Buenos Aires, and I felt safer than I would in the big cities of my country. Public transportation works very well, and the city has good infrastructure with sidewalks, parks, cafés, and pleasant places to walk around (this was my favorite part). Argentine beef and barbecue are incredible! However, I found everyday food to be nothing special. The bars and clubs there open very late at night, the party usually only stars at 1am and goes all the way to 5 or 6 am. And again, I felt safe walking alone at night in the nicer areas of the city. Here are some recommendations: - Feria de Mataderos: Definitely a MUST DO, it's every Sunday, very cultural, with live traditional music and street food. Around the square, there is the Museo Criollo de Los Corrales. Inside, there's an old bar where I found some gentlemen playing guitar; it was very touching. - El Boliche de Roberto: A bar with 130 years of history, with live tango literally every day of the week. The performances are very intimate and beautiful. - Bar El Federal: Great options for snacks, cheap wine, fair prices, beautiful decor, and the bar has over 100 years of history.

Posted: July 6, 2024
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júlia

júlia (22)

Spain

Solo travel experience

Buenos Aires is one of my favourite cities in the world! Full of life and cultural activities, it is the vibrant home of thousands of Argentinians (some of the kindest and most welcoming people I've ever met!). Of course, there are some areas you should avoid, especially at night, and should be aware of your surroundings at all times, but besides it did not feel particularly dangerous as a woman travelling solo! Would defenitely recommend!! (But pro tip: learn some basic Spanish first! ;))

Posted: June 16, 2024Experienced: November, 2023
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Family travel experience

My trip to Buenos Aires was so memorable, food, people, public transportation, were amazing. I didnt have high expectations but Buenos Aires its such a beautiful and safe city and cant wait to be back soon. I loved every second I spent there, pizza, media lunas, asado and milanesas were my favorite thing, going to la boca, la casa rosada, san telmo, recoleta, av 9 de julio, etc. I highly recommend trying the restaurant “petalo” and “el imperio de la pizza”

Posted: December 20, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I come from Argentina and in my opinion, Buenos Aires is safe, just watch out for your belongings in public transportation and in crowded areas. I suggest visiting San Telmo market and its surroundings, Puerto Madero, Recoleta cemetery, Ateneo library, and the Palermo district. Buenos Aires is huge and there are a lot of things to do there.

Posted: September 27, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went to Buenos Aires in December and had a great time. I only know a few words in Spanish, but I managed somehow. I used the "hop on-hop off" tourist bus as an easy way to get to all the main sightseeing spots. I had a safe travel bag that I kept with me at all times, as in any big city, but I didn't have any problems. There are plenty of attractions and things to do, and the food and drink are fantastic!

Posted: September 25, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I was in Buenos Aires alone for a month and I had a really good time there. I stayed in the Recoleta district and walked alone, feeling safe. I highly recommend learning Spanish, especially if you plan to use Uber or a taxi, as I noticed that drivers do not speak English.

Posted: September 11, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I visited Buenos Aires last year in June and I felt safe. The weather was perfect. I stayed near the Obelisk, so everything was within walking distance. I really loved this city, especially the wine and food. I also enjoyed watching tango (my favorite dance).

Posted: July 30, 2023
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Group travel experience

I mostly stayed in Micro Centro, Belgrano, and Palermo so I can only really speak to these areas. Palermo was the most walkable and had many work friendly cafes. Amazing options for restaurants, nightlife. Plaza Serrano and San Telmo have great markets during the weekends. In my experience very safe but as the case with all major cities safe keep an eye on petty crime. A friend of mine had their phone swiped from their hand while navigating late at night.

Posted: June 27, 2023Experienced: May, 2022
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Solo travel experience

I traveled for three months throughout South America, and I spent a week in Buenos Aires - the only place where I felt unsafe. All the taxi drivers were absolute scoundrels and they often exchanged our money for counterfeit.

Posted: April 17, 2023
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Solo travel experience

Buenos Aires is safe for a solo traveler. I spent the month of February there and stayed in Palermo Hollywood. There is a lot to do, great food and bars, it's easy to get around and it's cheap.

Posted: April 13, 2023
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Is Buenos Aires safe for women?

Safety rating

2.9 /5

Based on 7 experiences

Crime rates rating

2 /5

Based on 7 experiences

Its safe in popular zones, but no alone at night. If you take care and avoid dark and heavy zones, you will be ok and safe. Also, don't leave your phone on the table if you are sitting in a bar's table outside.

Posted: July 19, 2024
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It's safer than most cities I've traveled to especially if you stay in touristy neighborhoods. Just be careful about your phone and wallet but usually it's not violent crime. And as a woman I feel safe.

Posted: May 27, 2024
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Is Buenos Aires safe right now?

Before your visit to Buenos Aires, it's essential to check travel advisories for Argentina, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States Government advises exercising normal precautions in Argentina. However, some areas may pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: August 18, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

**The Canadian Government advises to take normal security precautions in Argentina.** Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 15, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

**The Australian government advises exercising normal safety precautions in Argentina.** Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 8, 2024

Is Buenos Aires worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 24 experiences

Solo travel experience

I went on a solo trip to Buenos Aires and had a great time. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, and there were many districts to explore. Places that must be visited include: San Telmo Market, La Boca with a tango show, Palermo and Recoleta.

Posted: April 10, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I liked the different barrios, the variety in food, things to do/see, the atmosphere. Very intersting history and friendly people!

Posted: April 3, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Buenos Aires

Meet local women in Buenos Aires who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Anna

Anna

About Me

Hi there! My name's Anna, I'm a Brazilian currently living in Buenos Aires with my girlfriend for 3 years now. I've graduated in Tourism and work in the area as well. Open to give some travel tips anytime! I'm a Travel Expert at a women-only tourism agency called Viare Travel. Currently spending my free time on a "Game Artist" course, and playing Nintendo Switch!

Speaking

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Val

Val

About Me

Hi! I'm Val, this is my first time traveling and I'd love to meet new people and make friends along my travels! To walk through the city and chat for hours :D

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Stay with locals in Buenos Aires

Stay with local women in Buenos Aires who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Renata

Renata

Buenos Aires

Can host for:

6 days

About me

Hey! My name is Renata, Im a flight attendant and would love to meet different cultures. I like meeting people and I’m super outgoing. Also I love to have fun with things in life but I can also be a serious person if it is necessary. I speak Spanish (native), English (fluent) and French (Intermediate)

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Iara

Iara

Buenos Aires

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Soy una persona curiosa, exploradora y apasionada por la vida, me fascina el conocer gente, culturas, lugares. Soy una fanática de los animales, de la vida lenta, de la naturaleza y del arte.

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Upcoming visitors to Buenos Aires

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Liv

Liv

About Me

Hello, My name is Liv and I live in Oslo

Speaking

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Gabi

Gabi

About Me

Hi! I’m Gabi, originally from Los Angeles but love to travel and would love to make new friends while exploring new places!

Speaking

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Safety in Argentina