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Argentina Travel Restrictions

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Travelling from Canada to Argentina

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Argentina from Canada?

Most visitors from Canada, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Argentina.

Can I travel to Argentina if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Argentina without restrictions.

Can I travel to Argentina without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Argentina without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Argentina?

Visitors from Canada are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Argentina.

Can I travel to Argentina without quarantine?

Travellers from Canada are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Argentina?

Mask usage in Argentina is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Argentina?

Restaurants in Argentina are open. Bars in Argentina are .

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Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Argentina. Includes information about coming to Canada.

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Argentina Reopening to Canadian Travellers: What You Need to Know

Information may change on a day-by-day basis. While we make every effort to keep the information here updated, the responsibility to keep abreast of ever-changing travel restrictions is ultimately your own.

Argentina has reopened to tourism as of  November 1, 2021,  immediately after reaching their goal of 50% of the population being fully vaccinated.

Chile has also removed their quarantine requirement for fully vaccinated, negative-tested arrivals as of November 1, meaning that the entire region of Patagonia is open to us once again.

Now may be a great time to plan a winter getaway to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, which are are ideally hiked in the southern summer when weather is at its warmest.

Argentina Travel Restrictions

Argentina has opened their borders in quite a lax fashion, with no rules for which countries can and cannot visit – everyone can enter based on their personal vaccination and testing status.

How Can Canadians Enter Argentina?

All Canadians are allowed to enter Argentina through all ports of entry, including sea, land, and air. As of October 2021, when departing Canada by air, travellers are required to present proof of vaccination .

All of Argentina’s allowed ports of entry are detailed on the Ministry of Tourism and Sports .

By all methods of entry, travellers must fulfill all  of the following criteria prior to boarding for entry without quarantine:

• Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken 72 hours prior to departure.
• Children who are ineligible for vaccination in their home country are exempt.
• Complete a sworn declaration prior to entry.
• Have health insurance.

There appears to be no dollar requirement for the COVID-19 insurance, as long as the traveller has a plan.

Furthermore, Argentina allows any combination of vaccines that a traveller’s country of origin recognizes.

Testing & Quarantine Upon Arrival

For all foreign arrivals, there is no mandatory test or quarantine.

Testing & Quarantine Upon Return

As of April 1, 2022, a negative test is no longer required prior to travelling back to Canada.

If you need to find a test in in Argentina,  tests in Argentina seem fairly easy to locate; the testing sites Turismocity and Stamboulian are recommended by foreign governments. Prices are all fairly affordable, with PCR tests falling in the range of AR$4,500 (~$52).

Alternatively, consider purchasing a Switch Health RT-LAMP or antigen test kit for an easy remote testing option via telehealth video link.

Current Health Requirements in Argentina

Health and safety requirements across Argentina are quite similar to our own here in Canada.

There are no rules against inter-city travel and most venues, including cultural sites, museums, and restaurants, are open again with full capacity.

That being said, nightclubs will only be open with 50% capacity, and in the capital of Buenos Aires, bars and nightclubs will only be open until 3am.

Furthermore, gatherings and shows of more than 1,000 people will also be limited to a 50% capacity limit.

Masks are required everywhere indoors and on all public transportation. Every jurisdiction can have their own laws about mask requirements, so take note if you’re travelling around the country.

It was only recently that the mask requirement was removed when outdoors, and this could come back if COVID-19 rates increase.

How to Get to Argentina

With Aeroplan points , any routing to Argentina will pass the 4,501-mile mark on the “Between North and South America” chart, making it 60,000 points one-way in business class.

And as much as it pains us to admit this, Air Canada business class will likely be your most luxurious option for the southbound journey. Air Canada flies their comfortable 787 Dreamliner to the capital of Buenos Aires from Toronto, with a stop in Santiago.

If you wanted, you could even spend 5,000 points for a stopover in Santiago before continuing onto Buenos Aires on Air Canada’s fifth-freedom flight .

In addition, United flies their Dreamliner from Houston to Buenos Aires, although award space may be difficult to come by.

You could also take a layover in Panama with Copa Airlines or a layover in Bogotá with Avianca, although you’re likely to find recliner seats and a lower standard of service on both airlines. 

Over in the Oneworld alliance, American Airlines flies to Buenos Aires from New York JFK, Dallas, and Miami.

All of these routes would cost 75,000 British Airways Avios  or 57,500 American AAdvantage miles one-way in business class, with no fuel surcharges.

Deals can be had everywhere these days – the above is an American Airlines Web Special that’s priced below the standard award rate, the only caveat being that no changes are allowed (but free cancellations are).

Argentina is currently open to all Canadian travellers, provided you are fully vaccinated (which you have to be in order to depart from Canada, anyway) and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within the last 72 hours of departure.

Other than masks being required indoors, there are very few COVID-19 limits in Argentina. There are no restrictions on inter-city travel, and you can even hop over to Chile or Brazil afterwards.

As always, you can refer to our  Travel During COVID-19 Resource for Canadians  for the most up-to-date information on travelling in the pandemic era.

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Travel Facts

Us state dept travel advisory.

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Argentina. Some areas have increased risk. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html

Passport/Visa Requirements

For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html

US Embassy/Consulate

[54] (11) 5777-4533; US Embassy in Buenos Aires, Avenida Colombia 4300, (C1425GMN) Buenos Aires, Argentina; https://ar.usembassy.gov/; [email protected]

LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage . Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime , sometimes carrying severe punishment. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html

Telephone Code

Local emergency phone.

Ambulance: 101; Fire: 107; Police: 101

Vaccinations

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Argentina: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19. http://www.who.int/

mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest

Currency (Code)

Pesos (ARS); USD accepted

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

Major Languages

Spanish, Italian, English, German, French, Indigenous (Mapudungun, Quechua)

Major Religions

Roman Catholic, Evangelical

Time Difference

UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Potable Water

Opt for bottled water

International Driving Permit

Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Argentina, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA

Road Driving Side

Tourist destinations.

Buenos Aires; Mar Del Plata; Iguazú Falls; Bariloche (fishing, hiking, and skiing); Mendoza (vineyards, Cerro Aconcagua); Patagonia (includes Perito Moreno Glacier, Cerro Chaltén, Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula; Tierra del Fuego National Park; Qhapaq Nan/Andean Road System

Major Sports

Pato (mix between polo and basketball), soccer, rugby

Cultural Practices

Initial greetings are formal and follow a set protocol of greeting the eldest or most important person first. A standard handshake, with direct eye contact and a welcoming smile will suffice.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is not required, but common for good service. Conventionally, 10% tips are appropriate at restaurants, and leaving the change is normal for taxi cabs. Tip hotel doormen the equivalent of $1 (USD) per bag, and hotel maids the equivalent of $2-3 (USD) a day. A 10-20% tip for tour guides is appropriate.

Leather goods, wine, alpaca wool clothing, mate gourds, gaucho knives/other traditional gaucho gear

Traditional Cuisine

Asado — cuts of beef, pork, chicken, or chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage) that are barbecued on a grill; empanadas; milanesa; matambre arrollado; various deserts with dulce de leche

Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination. World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination. US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens. To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs: American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) How to get help in an emergency?  Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers: from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444 Page last updated: Thursday, March 28, 2024

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Canada Has Issued Travel Advisories For These 9 Countries

Know before you go.

Someone holds a Canadian passport at the airport. Right: Canadian parliament buildings in Ottawa on a winter day.

Before you zip your suitcase and head off to the airport, you might want to take a quick detour through Canada's latest travel advisories . They're like looking both ways before crossing the street but for globe-trotting.

After all, that safari you're planning might share space with safety concerns , your next beach holiday could have you dodging unexpected waves of political unrest, and that view of the Aurora you're dreaming about may be dimmed by disaster warnings .

A quick check of Canada's travel advisories could be the difference between a trip to remember and one to forget. So, here are some of the latest countries that could use a closer look, each with its own set of reminders and warnings to consider before you finalize your plans:

Lava flowing during a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland.

Sigurbjornragnarsson | Dreamstime

Risk level: Take normal security precautions

Why: On January 14, 2024, a volcanic eruption occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula near Grindavík, southwest Iceland, prompting evacuations of the area, including Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon , due to dangerous lava flows. Icelandic authorities have closed all access to the eruption site and are monitoring the potential for volcanic gas clouds to affect Reykjavik's air quality. Those in areas possibly impacted by volcanic gases should keep windows closed, avoid using ventilation systems, and stay away from low-lying areas prone to gas accumulation. Fortunately, Keflavik International Airport remains unaffected, and flights are operating as normal.

More at travel.gc.ca

People shop in the colourful La Boca area of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Diego Grandi | Dreamstime

Why: A nationwide strike scheduled for January 24, 2024, by the General Confederation of Labour Unions is expected to cause significant disruptions across Argentina. Public transportation, public services, and both domestic and international flights may be affected, with potential roadblocks complicating travel.

Travellers to the Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Rosario should exercise a high degree of caution due to heightened risks of petty crime, such as theft and muggings, as well as organized and drug-related crime and violence. Visitors are advised to check their travel plans for January 24, monitor local news for updates on the strike and demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure safety.

Cyclists and pedestrians on a street in Quito facing the Basilica del Voto Nacional.

Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution

Why: Ecuador's government declared a nationwide state of "internal armed conflict" on January 9, 2024, after escalating gang violence, in Guayaquil and Quito. The declaration, following a state of emergency announced on January 8, aimed to empower security forces to tackle the surge in violence, marked by small explosions, attacks on businesses, and car burnings.

A nationwide curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. has also been instituted. During curfew hours, individuals are required to remain indoors, except for travellers heading to or from the airport for scheduled flights. Those caught travelling during curfew hours should be prepared to present ID and flight details to authorities.

The state of emergency grants security forces enhanced powers, including the ability to restrict gatherings, enter homes without warrants, and monitor prisoners' communications. Despite these security concerns, airports remain operational, though some flights have been affected. Travelers should contact their airlines to check for any potential delays or changes to their flights. Bus travel may also face disruptions; thus, verifying itineraries and schedules at bus terminals is advised.

For those currently in Ecuador, expect to see a heightened security presence, particularly near prisons. It's crucial to carry identification at all times and adhere strictly to the directives of local authorities.

Plaza de la Constitucion Constitution Square in Guatemala City.

Why: Following the presidential transition in Guatemala on January 14, 2024, there's a heightened possibility of demonstrations across the country, notably in Zone 1 of Guatemala City. These demonstrations could disrupt travel, affecting access to major roads and possibly leading to safety concerns for travellers. Foreign participants in any demonstrations risk detention, deportation, or being barred from future entry into Guatemala.

Due to very high levels of violent crime, non-essential travel is also discouraged to specific parts of Guatemala City (Zones 3, 18, 19, and 21) and certain municipalities including Amatitlán, Chinautla, Escuintla, San José del Golfo, San Raymundo, and Villa Nueva. The advisory extends to the departments of Chiquimula, Jutiapa, and Zacapa, along with highways RN-7E, CA-11, CA-12, CA-13, and PET-13, where safety concerns are significant.

An Eastleigh street with merchants in Nairobi, Kenya.

Antony Trivet | Dreamstime

Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Why: In Nairobi, travellers should be cautious in neighbourhoods like Eastleigh, Kibera, and Pangani due to high crime rates. Along the coast, areas within 50 km of the Tana River County coast and the coast in Kilifi County pose a heightened risk for kidnapping and attacks.

Counties bordering Somalia, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu, are no-go zones due to the threat of kidnapping and terrorist activities. Likewise, Turkana and Marsabit counties, adjacent to South Sudan and Ethiopia, pose risks of armed banditry and cross-border violence.

For those planning to view wildlife, use a reputable safari service and keep a safe distance from the animals. Kenya's rainy seasons, running typically from late March to mid-June and from October to November, often cause flooding and mudslides, potentially disrupting travel plans and access to essential services.

Boats in the harbour of Moroni on the Island of Comoros.

Presse750 | Dreamstime

Why: After the presidential elections on January 14, 2024, Moroni experienced a series of demonstrations characterized by vandalism, clashes between protesters and police, and disruptions to telecommunications. To manage the unrest, authorities imposed a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting January 17, 2024, with stricter measures in the Moroni area, where the curfew runs from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

It's important to remember that even peaceful demonstrations have the potential to escalate into violence unexpectedly and can disrupt traffic and public transportation. Travellers are advised to steer clear of areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are occurring to ensure their safety.

Cars on Tamarin Road in Saint Paul, Réunion Island.

Zamir Popat | Dreamstime

Why: Tropical Cyclone Belal recently swept through Réunion , causing disruptions to transportation, power, water and food supplies, as well as telecommunications. Travellers heading to the affected area should reach out to their airlines or tour operators to assess how disruptions could impact their plans.

The situation underscores the broader risks associated with the cyclone season, which lasts from November to April in Réunion. During that period, even minor tropical storms can escalate rapidly into major cyclones, posing significant safety risks and potentially affecting essential services.

If you're considering traveling to Réunion during cyclone season, be ready to adjust your travel plans, including possibly cutting your trip short or canceling altogether, based on the latest weather forecasts and local advisories.

South Africa

View of Cape Town from Voetboog Road.

Onlyfabrizio | Dreamstime

Why: Certain areas near Cape Town International Airport have been identified as less secure, with an increased risk of attacks on secondary roads. To mitigate risks, it's recommended travellers stay on highways and main roads, avoid shortcuts, plan trips in advance, verify travel itineraries with trusted local sources, and consider arranging for an airport transfer.

In addition to crime concerns, South Africa is grappling with nationwide power shortages, which occur regularly multiple times a day, often stretching over several hours. The outages are expected to persist into 2024. While the chance of a complete nationwide blackout remains low, the consequences of such an event would be severe. South Africa has already faced blackouts lasting up to 12 hours within a single 24-hour period. With increased power demand during the winter months of June and July, blackouts may become even more prolonged, leading to expectations of a particularly dark and cold season.

Côte d'Ivoire

Footballs fans in Côte d'Ivoire.

Lassina Toure | Dreamstime

Why: With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled from January 13 to February 11, 2024, travellers should be prepared for potential demonstrations. An increased security presence is anticipated during that time. Visitors are encouraged to stay clear of areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are expected.

Travellers are also warned against all travel to areas within 50 km of the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, including the regions of Bagoué, Bounkani (which encompasses Comoé National Park), Folon, and Tchologo, because of the risk of terrorist activity. Similar caution is urged for regions near the Liberian border — Cavally, San Pedro, Guémon, and Tonkpi — where non-essential travel should be avoided due to crime, insecurity, and recurrent inter-community conflicts.

• The Safest Airlines Of 2024 Were Ranked — Here's How Canadian Carriers Stack Up ›
• A New Map Tells Travellers Which Countries To Avoid In 2024 ›
• ​Canadian Travellers Are Picking A City In Southeast Asia ​Over US Destinations​ ›

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Is Argentina Safe to Visit? A Guide to Staying Safe While Travelling in 2024

Planning a trip to Argentina and wondering if it’s safe to visit?

The short answer is YES.

Overall, Argentina is generally considered a safe place to visit.

However, like any other destination, be aware of the potential dangers and take precautions to stay safe.

In this article, I’m sharing some safety basics about travelling to Argentina. There are scams and safety issues you should watch out for and areas of cities to avoid. I’ve got tips for staying safe when you visit.

I share the information in this article from personal experience. I lived in Argentina for two years and in that time, I had only one safety incident. Curious about what happened to me? You’ll have to read on to find out!

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Is Argentina safe: A quick overview

First up, how safe is Argentina?

The good news: experts consider Argentina safe.

The most recent Global Peace Index ranked Argentina 54th in the world. To put that into perspective, the United States ranked 131st – so Argentina is considered more peaceful and safer than the United States.

Governments consider travel to Argentina safe, with the following travel advice and alert levels currently in place (as of January 2024):

• USA : Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
• Australia : Exercise normal safety precautions
• Canada : Take normal security precautions

Hopefully this has put your mind at ease, because there are so many things to do in Argentina that deserve your attention. So, while you should be aware of potential dangers and take precautions, there’s no need to be overly worried about safety in Argentina – focus on having an amazing time instead.

Safety in major cities in Argentina

When it comes to safety in Argentina, the safety situation varies from city to city. Here’s what you need to know about safety in some of the major cities in Argentina that might be on your Argentina itinerary .

Is Buenos Aires safe?

The capital city, Buenos Aires is generally considered to be one of the safest cities in South America.

However, in recent times there has been rising unemployment and poverty, so exercise caution, especially in tourist hotspots.

Pickpocketing and other forms of petty crime can be problems in areas like San Telmo and La Boca, so it’s keep an eye on your belongings when you’re out and about. Stay within the main tourist area of La Boca (Calle Caminito), which is patrolled by police.

Retiro Train Station is known to be a pickpocketing hotspot, so be on guard around here, and avoid the area at night.

Overall, though, Buenos Aires is safe for tourists. Take a common-sense approach at night like you would in any big city.

Is Mendoza safe?

Mendoza, known for its vineyards and mountainous landscapes, generally ranks as a safe destination for tourists in Argentina. Its laid-back atmosphere and smaller city size make it less frenetic and overwhelming than other urban areas.

However, it’s not immune to crimes such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching, especially in crowded public places. Canada’s government has a warning for Mendoza to exercise a high degree of caution due to petty crime and muggings.

Being such a popular tourist destination, there’s a good police presence. The city maintains a good safety record and tourists generally report feeling secure during their visit.

Is Cordoba safe?

Cordoba is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history and fun nightlife.

It’s also generally considered to be a safe city for tourists.

Pickpocketing here can be an issue, so keep an eye on your stuff and be aware of anyone looking suspicious nearby.

Cordoba is a university town with a lively nightlife. If you’re heading out on the town, stick to well-lit areas and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you. It’s a good idea to go out with a group of friends rather than venturing out alone.

Is Rosario safe?

Rosario is the third-largest city in Argentina, and it’s known for its beautiful parks, museums and historic buildings. And as the birthplace of both Che Guevara and Messi!

However, it’s also known for drug trafficking, which is increasingly becoming an issue in the city.

The governments of Australia, Canada and the US warn that crime is a problem in Rosario. This is the only city in Argentina to have such a travel advisory from all three governments.

If you’re planning to visit Rosario, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Stick to well-lit areas, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you and be wary of anyone who approaches you on the street. Obviously, don’t get involved in the drug scene.

Argentina safety issues to be aware of

There are a few common safety concerns to be aware of in Argentina. These mostly apply to major cities and they’re also not that common, so read this just to be aware, not to be scared.

Bag snatching

Bag-snatching does occur in crowded places. This generally happens if people have left their bag on the back of their chair or the ground. It also happens with iPhones left on tables, so never do this. iPhones (and other smart phones) are expensive in Argentina so they’re a popular target for thieves.

Another common bag-snatching method is someone riding past on a motorbike and snatching your bag. Called motochorros , this theft involves two people – one driving the bike, the other snatching bags.

Pickpocketing

Like all major cities, Buenos Aires does have a pickpocketing problem. It usually happens in crowded areas and on public transport.

But it can even occur in quiet areas.

It happened to me!

While I was walking to work one day, listening to a podcast on my phone, someone pickpocketed my phone. My phone was in my rain jacket pocket and I didn’t even feel a thing. These guys are GOOD at pickpocketing. My advice: Avoid using your phone in public places.

Violent crime

Violent crime is rare. But it does happen. There have been a few reports of armed robberies involving tourists.

Another issue is ATM scams. This usually involves someone distracting you while someone else tries to steal your card or cash.

Taxi safety

While taxis are generally safe, there have been reports of taxi drivers taking longer routes to increase fares or even being involved in robberies. On a handful of occasions, I’ve frustratingly had taxi drivers adjust their meters so that the fare goes up quicker. I quickly let them know I wasn’t falling for that!

Argentina is known for its frequent protests and demonstrations. These are generally peaceful but they can sometimes turn violent. The Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires is a popular spot for protests.

Distraction scams

You’ve seen this scam everywhere in the world. Someone sprays something on your clothes while someone else tries to “kindly” wipe the “pigeon poo” off you – only to rob you.

Drink and food spiking

With a reputation for a fun nightlife scene, drink spiking does happen in Argentina.

As I said earlier, don’t let any of this put you off visiting Argentina! These incidents are rare. Almost 4 million people visited Argentina in 2022 without issue.

As I said earlier, Argentina is statistically safer than the United States.

21 safety tips for Argentina

So now that you know some of the safety issues, here are some safety tips to keep in mind.

1. Don’t flash your valuables

Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or carrying expensive items like cameras, laptops or smartphones in public. This will make you a target for thieves.

Keep your valuables in a secure location and only take them out when necessary.

Of course, I know you want to take photos when you visit! So take the photo and then put your camera/phone away in your bag.

2. Keep your bags close

If you’re sitting at an outdoor cafe, make sure your purse or bag is on your lap, away from the street. I always keep my bag on my lap with my arm wrapped through the handle.

When walking along the street, keep your bag away from the road where it could be easily snatched by motochorros .

3. Watch out for people trying to distract you

Someone sitting too close? Someone trying to “help” you? Be extra cautious and move away.

4. Don’t carry too much cash

Argentina makes it tricky to avoid carrying a lot of cash – to buy even a basic meal you’ll need a stack of notes.

But plan out your day and only carry with you what you need.

Also, put money in different spots. Some could go in your wallet, some in another pocket, some in your shoe, some (for the ladies) inside your bra. Consider a money belt or secret scarf (read next tip).

5. Invest in a money belt

As well as putting your money on different parts of your body, get yourself a money belt , a passport scarf of a thief-proof backpack .

While nothing’s foolproof, it will make a thief’s job harder.

• Wear All Day Long, Whatever The Weather fully adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit for men and women up to 56-inch waist. Soft, breathable, mesh material wicks away moisture to stop sweating
• Large Capacity For All Your Travel Essentials ample room to store your currency, credit cards, keys, passports, tickets and other important documents. Fits all phones like an iPhone and smartphone
• Keeps Your Valuables Hidden From Pickpockets keeps cash cards keys and travel documents concealed. The slim lightweight design ensures pouch is discreet and invisible to others when worn under clothes

• Secure and Stylish: Our travel scarf is not just an ordinary accessory; it’s a must-have for female travelers who prioritize style and security. With a hidden zipper pocket cleverly integrated into the infinity scarf design, you can keep your essentials safe, such as your passport, wallet, keys, and more, without sacrificing fashion.
• Peace of Mind While Traveling: No more worrying about pickpockets or misplacing your valuables during your adventures. Our travel scarf provides you with a discreet and secure place to store your passport and other essentials. So whether you’re exploring bustling markets or navigating crowded airports, you can focus on enjoying your journey with peace of mind.

• ANTI-THEFT DESIGN – with Lockable Zippers and Cut Proof Materials (lightweight steel mesh) to prevent theft/ pickpocketing, plus an RFID blocking pocket to keep your credit cards/ IDs safe. Patented in the USA, by Pacsafe, the original anti-theft brand.
• ORGANIZATION & POCKETS – 2* Lockable Zipper Exterior Pockets, 1* Padded & Suspended Interior Laptop Sleeve (Laptop won’t touch bag’s bottom), 2* Side Pockets for Water Bottles (up to 500ml), 2* Zipper Interior Pockets (1* RFIDsafe), 1* Key / Wallet Clip.

6. Try to blend in

Avoid speaking loudly in English or consulting a map in the middle of a busy street. Try to look casual and like you belong.

7. Learn a few words of Spanish

Learn some basic Spanish. You don’t have to be able to hold a conversation, but you do want to know enough so that you can get by in taxis and on public transport.

8. Don’t resist

It’s highly unlikely, but armed robberies do happen. Don’t resist.

Your stuff can be replaced. That’s why you have travel insurance , right?

9. Use licensed taxis

When travelling around Argentina, use licensed taxis. These taxis have official markings and are usually yellow or black with a roof light.

Keep your eye on the meter to make sure it’s not going up too quickly or that the taxi driver adds an extra amount to the fare when you stop.

It’s always a good idea to have an idea of how to get to your destination so you can see if the driver’s going in a roundabout way.

10. Use a ride-hailing app

At night, it can be a good idea to use a ride-hailing app like Uber or Cabify, which are widely available in major cities.

This means you don’t have to worry about paying in cash and you know the fare before you get in.

You can also send your location to someone so they can track your journey.

11. Keep your door locked

When you’re in a taxi or Uber, keep your door locked and your window up.

Thieves often target cars stopped at traffic lights. This happened to one of my colleagues. She was in a taxi stopped at the lights and someone snatched her phone through the open window.

12. Avoid public transport at night

If you’re not familiar with using public transport in Argentina, particularly in the big cities, consider taking a rideshare vehicle instead at night.

At all times of day, be aware of pickpockets and keep your belongings close to you at all times on buses and trains.

13. Be cautious when using ATMs

Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centres, and avoid using them at night or in isolated areas.

Shield your PIN number from view and be aware of anyone standing too close to you.

14. Watch out for counterfeit notes

When exchanging money in Argentina , carefully check the pesos you get. Same goes for the change you receive in shops.

15. Avoid protests and demonstrations

It may be tempting to see what all the fuss is about, but it’s best to avoid getting caught up in protests.

If you do accidentally find yourself in the middle of a protest, leave the area.

16. Watch your drink

Keep an eye on your drink and don’t accept drinks from strangers. Avoid leaving your food or drink unattended.

17. Don’t do drugs

Sure, you can very easily get drugs in Argentina. But don’t do them – it’s illegal. You’ve seen “Banged Up Abroad” and you know how it’ll end!

18. Avoid the villas

Villas are essentially shanty towns and they are in Buenos Aires. You might be surprised that there’s one right next to fancy Recoleta (I could see Villa 31, Buenos Aires’ most famous villa, from my balcony).

It’s unlikely you’ll find yourself in a villa (pronounced vish-a) but if you accidentally do, leave quickly.

Retiro Train Station is right next to Villa 31. This area is a hotspot for pickpockets as they can quickly escape into the villa. This is where I was pickpocketed, so I know how quickly pickpockets can move!

19. Find out which areas to avoid

There are areas in all cities in the world that you just know to avoid. Find out from your hotel or accommodation which areas to stay away from in the city you’re in in Argentina.

In Buenos Aires, for instance, those areas are La Boca (outside of the main tourist area and at night), parts of San Telmo at night and Retiro Train Station. Figure out where to stay in Buenos Aires to avoid the sketchier areas.

20. Stay informed

Stay informed about the current situation in Argentina by checking the news and government travel advisories. Sign up to their updates, if they have them.

Note down your embassy’s contact information and keep it on you.

21. Keep an eye on the ground!

Okay, so this tip isn’t safety-related, but always keep an eye on the footpath. There’s dog poop everywhere ! At times it’s like dodging a minefield!

Argentina travel insurance

You shouldn’t visit Argentina without travel insurance. You can read my full Argentina travel insurance guide , but below I’ve got a few tips and recommendations.

While Argentina has good health and dental services available and it’s affordable – sometimes even free, including for foreigners – travel insurance covers you for more.

Travel insurance protects you against theft, illness, injury and cancellations.

If you get sick or injured while in Argentina, travel insurance will cover your medical expenses .

It may even cover the cost of a medical evacuation back to your home country.

Additionally, if something unexpected happens and you need to cancel your Argentina trip, travel insurance can help reimburse you for any non-refundable expenses.

In short, travel insurance is a must .

I recommend the following three travel insurance providers:

• Travel Insurance Master – a site that aggregates travel insurance products from across various providers
• SafetyWing  – great for digital nomads in Argentina or people travelling for long periods
• World Nomads – simple and flexible travel insurance

You should be able to find what you need for Argentina with one of these providers.

Is Argentina safe to travel alone?

Absolutely!

Of course, you’ll need to take extra precautions with no one else to keep an eye out for you. Follow all the tips listed above, along with:

• Book accommodation  before you go so you know where you’re staying in each of the places in Argentina you’re visiting
• Consider joining some tours so you can explore with a guide – and maybe even make some new friends
• Don’t get wildly drunk
• Let family and friends back home know where you are and where you’re going next
• If your government has the option, register with them that you’re in Argentina

Is Argentina safe for solo female travellers?

It’s also a yes to this question about whether Argentina is safe for solo female travellers. I think the advice above also applies.

You do need to be aware that Argentina has quite the macho culture. As a woman, you’ll likely be the recipient of  piropos , men openly commenting about you. It’s the Buenos Aires version of catcalling and can be off-putting. Ignore them and keep walking.

Don’t walk around alone at night and avoid dark areas without streetlights.

Let someone know where you’re going when you head out for the evening. That could be someone at your accommodation or a text to a friend back home.

Always, always trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, leave the situation. Don’t be afraid to make a scene or ask for help if you feel threatened.

Is Argentina safe to visit? My thoughts

Overall, Argentina is safe.

Millions of people visit Argentina every year and have a great time. I lived here for two years and the only issues I ever had was one pickpocketing incident and some taxi drivers trying to jib the meter.

Follow the safety tips I’ve shared here and be aware of what can go wrong and how to prevent it – but don’t be anxious or scared.

By taking basic safety precautions, you can avoid being the victim of a crime and enjoy all that Argentina has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is argentina safe to visit right now.

The Australian, Canadian and US governments all list Argentina at the lowest risk level. The safety situation in Argentina can change at any time, so it’s always a good idea to check the current safety status before you travel.

What are the current travel restrictions for Argentina?

As of January 2024, there are no significant travel restrictions in place for Argentina. Always check your government’s travel advisories ahead of a trip.

What’s the crime rate like in Argentina?

Argentina does have crime, especially in larger cities like Buenos Aires. However, most visitors to Argentina have a safe and enjoyable trip. In my personal experience, I felt safe living in Argentina for two years and never encountered any major safety issues – other than one pickpocketing incident (and I wasn’t hurt).

Is the United States or Argentina safer?

The 2023 Global Peace Index lists Argentina at 54 and the United States at 131 in terms of safety and peace. You can interpret that as Argentina being safer than the United States.

How do locals feel about tourists in Argentina?

Argentinians are generally friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, as with any country, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid talking about the Malvinas Islands (Falklands) if you’re British. Learning a few words of Spanish can also go a long way.

What’s the level of English proficiency in Argentina?

While many Argentinians speak some English, it does vary depending on where you are in the country. In larger cities like Buenos Aires, you’re more likely to find people who speak English fluently. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to help you get by.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Got any questions about staying safe in Argentina? Drop them in the comments section below.

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these other Argentina travel blogs.

• What to Do in Buenos Aires: 101+ Ideas for Your Itinerary
• Where to Eat in Buenos Aires: 50+ of the Best Restaurants and Bars to Try
• Where to Stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina: A (Former) Local’s Guide
• Navigating Money in Argentina: A Traveller’s Guide to Money Matters
• Argentina Itinerary Ideas: Options for 1-4 Weeks

ARGENTINA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book your flight to Argentina online with Skyscanner . I like how this site allows you to find the cheapest days.
• Find a great hotel in Argentina. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Argentina on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• Keep those bottles of wine you’ll be buying safe in these wine bags .
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Argentina will be handy. Also pick up a Spanish language guidebook to help you navigate your visit.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

PIN IT FOR LATER: IS ARGENTINA SAFE TO VISIT?

Save this guide to safety in Argentina to Pinterest for later.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

2 thoughts on “Is Argentina Safe to Visit? A Guide to Staying Safe While Travelling in 2024”

Well Done-Where are the must hit spots in Argentina?

Hi Mark, I have an article in the Argentina section of my site with what I think are the best places to visit in Argentina. Have a great trip!

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Argentina. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Western Equine Encephalitis Virus in South America March 14, 2024 There are reports of Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV) infections in horses, humans or both, in parts of Argentina and Uruguay. Destination List: Argentina, Uruguay
• Dengue in the Americas February 28, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Argentina.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Argentina. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Argentina.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Argentina is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to Corrientes and Misiones Provinces. Generally not recommended for travel to Formosa Province or to designated areas of Chaco, Jujuy, and Salta Provinces. Not recommended for travel limited to provinces and areas not listed above.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Argentina, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Argentina. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Argentina include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Argentina. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Argentina’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Argentina. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Argentina may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Argentina, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Argentina for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Update April 12, 2024

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Canada Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 17, 2023, canada - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Canada.

If you decide to travel to Canada: 

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Canada.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.  Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Last verified: Saturday, 20. April 2024 at 08:25 AM

Argentina Travel Advisory

• South America
• Argentina Travel Advice

We advise caution when travelling to Argentina

Local situation: 3.2 / 5.

We advise caution when travelling to Argentina. We detected travel advisories from 6 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 3.2 / 5

Argentina shares a land border with 5 neighbouring states. For this region of countries (including Argentina), the Advisory Index is 3.2 (average value over all countries). All countries have some reported advisories: Brazil (3.3), Chile (3.3), Uruguay (3.3), Bolivia with 3.2 and Paraguay with 3 (of 5).

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Argentina

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Argentina. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Argentina.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Argentina

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Argentina.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Argentina from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.2 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: Canada

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/argentina

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

Exercise increased caution in Rosario due to high levels of crime and violence (level 2 of 4).

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/argentina

Advisory issued by: United States

Reissued with updates to crime information. Exercise normal precautions in Argentina. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise increased caution in: City of Rosario (Santa Fe province) due to crime. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Argentina.

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Finland

Iaktta normal försiktighet -

Source: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/AR

Individual rating changes for Argentina

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Argentina. Most recent events first.

Changes from September 28th 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 3.7 to 3.9 . Here are the influencing details:

The Austrian government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 5.0.

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 3.1 to 3.7 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Argentina to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 1.0 (by +4.0).

Changes from March 22nd 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 3.0 to 3.1 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 4.0.

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 2.8 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Argentina to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 15th 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 2.0 to 2.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 4.0.

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Argentina to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 1.0 (by +3.0).

Changes from March 14th 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 1.8 to 2.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Danish government increased their existing warning for Argentina to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 10th 2020

The total rating for Argentina changed from 1.6 to 1.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Danish government increased their existing warning for Argentina to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Argentina changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Danish government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 2.0.

The Finnish government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 2.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 1.0.

The New Zealand government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 2.0.

The United States government issued a new warning for Argentina with a rating of 1.0.

About Argentina

Argentina with its capital Buenos Aires is a country in South America (South America), slightly less than three-tenths the size of the US (2,766,890 km²). The country is located Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile and Uruguay. The climate can be described as mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest. The landscape is rich plains of the Pampas in northern half, flat to rolling plateau of Patagonia in south, rugged Andes along western border. With a population of about 40.68 million citizens.

Argentine flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Argentina is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

• air pollution
• and water pollution note: Argentina is a world leader in setting voluntary greenhouse gas targets
• desertification
• environmental problems (urban and rural) typical of an industrializing economy such as deforestation
• soil degradation

Natural hazzards

• heavy flooding in some areas
• pamperos are violent windstorms that can strike the pampas and northeast
• San Miguel de Tucuman and Mendoza areas in the Andes subject to earthquakes
• volcanic activity in the Andes Mountains along the Chilean border; Copahue (2,997 m) last erupted in 2000; other historically active volcanoes include Llullaillaco, Maipo, Planchon-Peteroa, San Jose, Tromen, Tupungatito, and Viedma

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Argentina. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

• consumer durables
• food processing
• motor vehicles
• petrochemicals

Agriculture products

• sunflower seeds

Argentine Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Argentina.

Export products

• derivatives

Import products

• natural gas
• organic chemicals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for argentina.

Argentina is currently rated at 3,2 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 6 official sources. We advise caution when travelling to Argentina.

Is it safe to travel Argentina in 2024?

Visiting the country Argentina is usually fine. The score is at 3,2 Just keep an eye open, obey local rules and you'll most likely be fine.

How many travel advisories do you know for Argentina?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 6 individual sources for Argentina.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Argentina?

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Argentina. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET). There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Argentina.

What is the size of Argentina?

Argentina has a size of 2,766,890 km² or 1,068,302 mi² which is slightly less than three-tenths the size of the US.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Argentina and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Argentina travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

• Is Argentina safe to travel?
• What's the safety situation in Argentina?
• Are there security warnings for Argentina?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

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Is it safe to visit Mexico? What Canadians must know about the updated 2024 travel advisory

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It might be the third-most-visited destination for Canadians after the United States, but Mexico isn't considered a low-risk country for travellers. 

The Canadian government continues to advise tourists to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Mexico, highlighting the country's "high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping." 

In November 2023, the United Nations stated that over 100,000 people are  currently missing in Mexico , characterizing the mass disappearances as "alarming," according to Reuters.

In December 2023, the Mexican government released the findings of their Disappeared Persons Search Strategy, revealing the scope of missing people in the country. However, the document "ambiguously" categorized roughly 80,000 individuals "due to the lack of sufficient data ," said Amnesty International. 

Other violent crimes, including armed burglaries and physical and sexual assault, are common in many places. Many robberies happen at airports, currency exchange bureaus, or ATMs.

Petty theft, including purse and bag snatching, is also common, particularly in popular tourist areas or during crowded festivals or protests.

Updated Mexico travel advisory for Canada in 2024

Canadian travellers do not require a visa to visit Mexico but their passport must be valid for their stay in the country. It is always a good idea to ensure your passport is valid for six months after you return home from travel. If you become ill or injured while in your destination, you may not be able to travel home. Having a buffer for your travel document before it expires ensures you won't have trouble coming home. 

In 2022, Canada and its neighbours south of the border issued updated  advisories for parts of Mexico  due to violent crime, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. 

There continue to be high rates of these types of crime in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum), and Acapulco. Criminal groups and drug cartels are also present in tourist areas and bystanders can get caught in crossfire.

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur in these popular tourist destinations. Drivers generally don't target tourists but you "be caught up in these incidents and harassed or injured."

In Mexico City, government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B." Other taxis at stands will have their company's logo and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

Buses are relatively safe in the capital city but you should use VIP or executive class transportation when travelling to other cities.

Avoid all travel to the Guerrero State 

Canada continues to advise against any travel to the Guerrero State due to the aftermath of  Hurricane Otis . The area has grappled with increased criminal and gang activity following the natural disaster. 

The cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco are excluded from the advisory. 

Avoid non-essential travel to these areas in Mexico

The Canadian government warns against non-essential travel to the following areas due to high levels of violence of violence and organized crime

• all Chihuahua
• all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• all Durango, except Durango City
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
• the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
• all Michoacán, except the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
• the municipality of Xoxocotla
• the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
• the city of Tepic
• all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
• all Sinaloa, except the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• all Tamaulipas
• all Zacatecas

What happens if you are caught committing a crime in Mexico?

If you are caught committing a crime, even a "minor" one such as smoking outside a public building or public urination, you could be detained. 

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada. Travellers can be held in pre-trial detention for 72 hours before a trial.

Paying a fine may secure an early release from detention but is not guaranteed.

Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. Some places tourists can no longer smoke include beaches, parks, hotels, and restaurants. If you are caught  smoking in public,  you may be fined.

What to do if you need help while you are in Mexico 

In case of an emergency in Mexico, dial 911. 

Contact roadside assistance if you run into an issue on a highway. The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time. 

To contact the Angeles Verdes,  download their App  on your mobile device. In an emergency, dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Canadians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 001-800-514-0129 (toll-free from Mexico only), +1 613 996 8885, by text message at +1 613-686-3658, via WhatsApp at +1 613-909-8881, via Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad or by  e-mail . 

Visit a  travel medical clinic  before you book a ticket from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The healthcare professionals will inform you about what vaccinations you require and what you can expect on your trip. There are risks of contracting several viruses spread by mosquitoes including dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.

Travellers should always check the latest government advisory before booking a ticket from Vancouver to Mexico. They should also purchase a  comprehensive travel insurance policy  when they book their ticket, which will cover the cost of your ticket in case you can't leave due to an unforeseeable medical or other emergency reason. It will also cover incidents such as missed connections, baggage interruption and loss, and more. 

Canadians should always register trips they take  online  before they leave so that the government can contact them in an emergency.

Find more information about exciting destinations in B.C. and across the globe, as well as travel deals and tips, by signing up for  V.I.A.'s weekly travel newsletter The Wanderer . Since travel deals can sell out, find out the day they are posted by signing up for our  daily Travel Deals newsletter.

Want to learn more about a specific destination or have a travel concern or idea you would like V.I.A. to write about? Email us at elana@vancouverisawesome. Send us stories about recent holidays that you've been on, or if you have any tips you think our readers should know about. 

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Antigua and Barbuda travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:07 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, antigua and barbuda - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Antigua and Barbuda

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Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Armed assaults against tourists can also occur.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Do not carry large sums of cash or wear jewellery
• Avoid deserted and unpatrolled beaches after dark
• Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous.

Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Water safety abroad

Road safety 

Main roads are well maintained. However, street lights are uncommon and there is a lack of signage. Wild animals may stray into traffic.

Department of Tourism  – Antigua and Barbuda

Public transportation

Ferry services are available between Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, and Saint Kitts and Nevis. 

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Antigua and Barbuda. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Antigua and Barbuda.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: not required Student permit: required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. 

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Heath care services are adequate in Antigua but extremely limited in Barbuda.

There is no decompression chamber available on the islands to treat diving-related injuries. Cases are referred to Guadeloupe or Saba.

Clinics and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for medical services.

You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Antigua and Barbuda.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Antigua and Barbuda.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Antigua and Barbuda by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Antigua and Barbuda to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Antiguan and Barbudan law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

If planning to marry in Antigua and Barbuda, ensure that you meet all requirements and have all necessary documents before leaving Canada. Most countries require a certificate stating that there are no Canadian impediments to your marriage.

Investments

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Antigua and Barbuda, seek legal advice in Canada and in Antigua and Barbuda. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Camouflage clothing

Civilians may not import camouflage material. It is also an offence for civilians to dress in camouflage clothing or to carry items made of camouflage material.

Traffic drives on the left.

You must have a local driving permit to drive in Antigua and Barbuda. You can buy it at any car rental agency or police station upon presentation of a valid Canadian driver's licence.

The currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the  East Caribbean dollar (XCD).

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Local services

Dial 999 / 911 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Sint Maarten.

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Barbados, in Bridgetown, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.