Is Buenos Aires Safe for Tourists in 2026?

Unlicensed taxis (piratas) operate widely in Buenos Aires. Drivers overcharge tourists, take circuitous routes, or pass counterfeit bills as change. Some tourists have reported robberies in pirate taxis.

How to avoid: Use Cabify or Uber for all rides, or call a licensed remise (minicab) service. Avoid flagging taxis off the street in Buenos Aires.

Where: Throughout Buenos Aires, particularly at Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini International Airport and Jorge Newbery Aeroparque domestic airport; Retiro bus terminal area; outside major hotels in Palermo, Recoleta, and Puerto Madero

Pairs of thieves on motorcycles target pedestrians walking with phones, bags, or cameras visible. One rider operates the bike while the passenger snatches the item as they pass — the entire theft takes under two seconds and the bike disappears into traffic before victims can react. The tactic, known locally as motochorros, is specifically warned against by the US State Department, UK FCDO, and Canadian government. It is most common on wider avenues and quieter side streets, particularly after dark.

How to avoid: Keep your phone in your pocket or bag when walking — never hold it visibly while on the street. Carry bags on the side away from the road, or use a crossbody bag worn in front. Avoid walking on the outer edge of the pavement close to moving traffic, especially on wide avenues.

Where: Avenida Corrientes, Avenida Santa Fe, and the side streets of Palermo and San Telmo; also reported on Defensa Street in San Telmo and around La Boca outside the Caminito tourist zone

Men offering "cambio cambio" (exchange exchange) on Florida Street offer black-market peso rates above the official rate. They shortchange tourists with sleight of hand or give counterfeit peso notes mixed with genuine ones.

How to avoid: Since Argentina has normalized its currency market, the blue dollar rate advantage is smaller than it once was. If you do exchange informally, count every note yourself in a secure location. Official ATMs and exchanges are significantly safer.

Where: Florida Street (Calle Florida) pedestrian zone in downtown Buenos Aires; informal exchange kiosks near Plaza de Mayo and around Microcentro financial district

A substance is squirted on your clothing from behind; a "helpful" bystander immediately moves in to assist with cleaning while an accomplice steals your bag, camera, or phone. This is one of the most reported scams in Buenos Aires.

How to avoid: Immediately grip your bag and step away if anything hits your clothing. Move to a secure area before allowing anyone to touch you or help.

Where: Throughout Buenos Aires tourist areas: Florida Street pedestrian zone in the Microcentro, San Telmo neighborhood around Plaza Dorrego and Defensa Street, La Boca near Caminito, and Recoleta near the cemetery