Traveling to Argentina is an adventure. It’s known for amazing landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural traditions. But like any trip, staying healthy and safe is key. Whether you’re roaming the streets of Buenos Aires or hiking in Patagonia, it’s important to be prepared.
Health Tips
When visiting Argentina, staying healthy is pretty straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way.
Stay Hydrated
Tap water is safe to drink in most cities like Buenos Aires and Bariloche. Still, if you’re traveling to rural areas or hiking, carry bottled water just to be safe. Sometimes water quality can vary, especially in remote regions.
Be Wary of Altitude Sickness
If you plan to visit places like Salta or the Andes, you may hit high altitudes. Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, or shortness of breath. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and allow your body to adjust. It helps to avoid alcohol for the first couple of days too.
Food Safety
Argentinian food is delicious, especially the famous asado (barbecue). Food hygiene in the cities is generally good. But, it’s still smart to stick to busy restaurants where locals eat. In rural areas, avoid raw vegetables or fruit unless you peel them yourself. If you have a sensitive stomach, steer clear of street food to avoid food poisoning.
Prevent Mosquito Bites
Mosquitoes can be a problem in some parts of Argentina, especially in the northern provinces like Misiones (home to Iguazú Falls). Use a good insect repellent that contains DEET and wear long sleeves in mosquito-prone areas. While malaria risk is low, dengue fever can be present in summer. The best protection is preventing bites altogether.
Vaccinations
There are some recommended vaccinations for Argentina. For most travelers, ensuring you’re up to date on routine vaccines like measles, mumps, rubella, and the seasonal influenza vaccine is enough.
- Hepatitis A: It’s usually recommended because the virus can be spread through contaminated food or water.
- Typhoid: Good if you’re traveling to rural areas or planning to eat street food.
- Yellow Fever: If you’re visiting areas like Iguazú Falls or traveling near the borders of Brazil and Paraguay, a yellow fever vaccine is recommended (and sometimes required for neighboring countries).
An anti-diarrheal like loperamide (Imodium) and rehydration salts can also be helpful in case of minor food-related issues.
Emergency Contacts
Argentina has a solid healthcare system in major cities. In case of any emergencies, it’s good to have key numbers saved on your phone.
- Emergency General Number: 911 (works across Argentina for police, medical emergencies, and fire)
- Medical Emergencies: 107
- Police: 101 (or 911 in most major cities)
- Fire Department: 100
If you need medical care, private hospitals like Hospital Alemán in Buenos Aires offer high-quality care with English-speaking staff. Be sure you have travel insurance, as it may help cover these costs in case of emergency.
Urban Safety Tips
Safety in Argentina varies depending on where you are. In most big cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza, you’ll find the usual big-city crime. But with some street smarts, you’ll likely stay safe.
Watch Your Belongings
Pickpockets are common in busy areas like transport hubs, tourist spots, and markets. Always keep valuables close. Don’t leave bags hanging on chairs at cafes, and always keep an eye on them in public spaces.
Avoid Flashing Valuables
Expensive jewelry, watches, and electronics can make you a target. Keep valuable items out of sight when walking around, especially at night. Use your phone discreetly in crowded places.
Use Reputable Taxis or Ride-Hailing Apps
When in Buenos Aires or other cities, avoid hailing taxis off the street unless you’re sure they’re official. Better yet, use apps like Cabify or Uber. These services are generally reliable, and you can track your journey.
Stay in Well-Lit Areas at Night
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas, particularly in neighborhoods you’re unfamiliar with. If you need to get back to your accommodation late at night, opt for a trusted taxi service or ride-share app.
Rural Safety Tips
When leaving the cities and exploring Argentina’s incredible countryside, the risks are different. But you can still enjoy rural adventures safely.
Monitor the Weather
Argentina’s wild landscapes can mean fast-changing weather. If you’re hiking in Patagonia or the Andes, always check forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes. Carry layers to adapt to the cold or heat and bring waterproof gear if needed.
Hiking Safety
If you’re trekking in national parks, always stick to marked trails. Let someone know your hiking plans, and carry a map or GPS. In some areas, like the Andes, conditions can be tricky, so it’s good to hire a local guide.
Watch for Wildlife
Stay aware of your surroundings in rural areas. Respect animals’ space, as some wildlife, like snakes or pumas, can be dangerous if provoked. Insects like ticks can also present a small risk, so wear long sleeves if trekking through grassier areas.
Take Care When Driving
If you plan to rent a car and drive around rural areas, be cautious. Roads can be bumpy and poorly maintained outside cities. Watch out for livestock or wildlife crossing the road, and always drive slowly, especially on unmarked roads.
Stay Connected
Some rural areas may not have phone signal or Wi-Fi. Make sure to download any maps or information you need before heading into these regions. Consider carrying a second-hand phone as backup in case your primary phone’s signal gets spotty.
Travel Insurance
Before heading out on your trip, make sure you’re covered by travel insurance. It’s a good safeguard for emergencies like lost luggage, canceled flights, or accidents. Argentina is safe, but accidents can happen. Having insurance will help make sure you don’t end up with a big medical bill or lost belongings without help.
At the Airport: Staying Safe
International airports in Argentina like Ezeiza in Buenos Aires are generally safe. But like anywhere, be alert and know where your valuables are. Keep your passport safe and make copies just in case. Be mindful around ATMs and only use those inside the airport terminal.
Final Thoughts
Argentina is an unforgettable destination with rich experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring cities or the wilderness, staying safe and healthy doesn’t have to be hard. Just take precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and enjoy everything this amazing country has to offer. Stay safe and happy travels!
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