Is Buenos Aires Safe for Tourists in 2026?

The US Embassy in Buenos Aires issued official security alerts in August 2024 and March 2025 warning of a surge in "Black Widow" incidents — a specific pattern in which women approach men in bars and nightclubs, gain their trust, and then spike their drinks with clonazepam (a powerful sedative). Once the victim is incapacitated, the perpetrator and accomplices steal cash, cards, passport, and electronics. The Buenos Aires Herald reported multiple incidents occurring within single weekends, and the Embassy stated it had seen "a significant increase" requiring mandatory reporting to US citizens. Victims are typically older male tourists who accept drinks or share food with women they have just met in social venues.

How to avoid: Never accept a drink or food from someone you have just met in a bar, even if they seem trustworthy. Order drinks directly from the bar and watch them being prepared. If you feel suddenly and abnormally drowsy after one or two drinks, alert bar staff immediately and call emergency services (911). Do not leave a bar alone with someone you just met. Share your location and plans with a trusted contact before going out.

Where: Bars and nightclubs in Palermo Hollywood, Las Canitas, San Telmo, and Recoleta; also reported at hotel bars in the Microcentro area and Puerto Madero waterfront restaurants

Drivers posing as legitimate remis (private car) operators offer rides near Retiro Bus Terminal, Ezeiza International Airport, and late-night bar districts in Palermo. Once the tourist is inside, accomplices may enter the vehicle and the victim is driven to multiple ATMs and forced to withdraw cash at each one before being released. This crime, known locally as "secuestro express," specifically targets travelers unfamiliar with the city.

How to avoid: Only use officially booked remis services called in advance through a reputable company, or take metered Radio Taxi cabs identified by the illuminated roof light. Never accept rides from individuals who approach you unprompted at transportation hubs or outside bars and clubs. Have your hotel pre-arrange airport transfers.

Where: Retiro Bus Terminal (Av. Antártida Argentina), Ezeiza International Airport arrivals hall, late-night Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood bar districts along Thames, Honduras, and Fitz Roy streets

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers approach tourists on busy streets such as Florida Street, Lavalle, and around Plaza de Mayo, claiming they are conducting anti-counterfeit operations and must inspect your wallet and currency. Once your cash is in their hands, they pocket bills or swap genuine notes for counterfeits before returning the wallet. Victims often only realize what happened after the "officers" have disappeared into the crowd.

How to avoid: Legitimate Argentine police do not stop tourists on the street to inspect cash. If approached, firmly refuse and walk toward the nearest uniformed officer or into a shop. Ask to see official photo ID and a badge number — real officers will not object. Never hand over your wallet.

Where: Florida pedestrian street between Rivadavia and Córdoba, around Plaza de Mayo, and on Lavalle pedestrian street in the Microcentro district

The colourful La Boca neighbourhood is one of Buenos Aires' top tourist spots and also a significant pickpocket zone. Tourists are strongly advised not to venture beyond the immediate Caminito area with valuables.

How to avoid: Stick to the main tourist street in La Boca. Leave valuables at the hotel. Come with a tour group rather than independently.

Where: La Boca neighborhood in Buenos Aires, particularly around the Caminito open-air museum and the side streets branching off the main pedestrian strip near the Riachuelo waterfront