Travel health tips for Argentina

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Argentina might feel like Europe with better steak – but don’t let the cosmopolitan vibe fool you. Whether you’re sipping Malbec in Mendoza, trekking in Patagonia, or catching tango fever in Buenos Aires, your trip can take a hard turn if you come down with altitude sickness, a stomach bug, or worse, dengue. The country’s vast size means climate, infrastructure, and healthcare access vary wildly. The upside? A little know-how and prep will keep you dancing through your itinerary. These Argentina travel health tips will help you stay well while you explore glaciers, grill meat, and maybe even attempt a few tango steps.

Essential vaccines for traveling to Argentina

Before you dive into a juicy steak in Buenos Aires or hike your way through Patagonia, make sure your vaccinations are sorted. Some are no-brainers, others depend on how wild you're planning to get in the Andes or the jungle. One of the smarter Argentina travel tips is to visit a travel clinic before your trip, especially if you’re heading off the beaten path or spending time in rural areas.

Which vaccines do you need?

You probably had a few jabs as a kid, but don’t assume you’re covered. Check with your doctor or a travel clinic well ahead of your flight.

Mandatory vaccines

Yellow fever – Only required if you're coming from a country where yellow fever is present. But if you're heading to Argentina’s far north (think Iguazú Falls or the Misiones jungle), it’s also recommended.

Recommended vaccines

  • Tetanus and diphtheria – If your last booster was over 10 years ago, it’s time for another.
  • Hepatitis A – Spread via food and water. You might be fine in the capital, but that roadside empanada stall near Salta? Best to play it safe.
  • Typhoid – Especially worth it if you’re eating at markets or spending time in rural areas.
  • Hepatitis B – Transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. If you’re planning to get a tattoo, need medical care, or will be staying a while, this one’s smart.
  • Rabies – There’s a risk in rural and semi-rural areas. Stray dogs, bats, and even foxes can be carriers. If you're hiking, biking, or just the kind of person who always pets the dog, consider it.

Pre-travel health checklist

Before you’re scaling Andean peaks or sipping mate in the pampas, take a few minutes to plan. Argentina’s healthcare is good in the cities but patchy in remote areas. A bit of prep now saves headaches later – and these Argentina travel health tips can help you stay ahead of any surprises.

Packing for a healthy trip

No need to bring a suitcase full of meds – but these essentials can help you avoid a pharmacy dash in the middle of nowhere.

  • Mosquito repellent: Look for one with DEET or picaridin, especially in the subtropical north. Dengue is an issue in summer (especially from November to May).
  • Sunscreen: High-altitude sun in places like Mendoza or Bariloche can catch you off guard. Go SPF 50+.
  • Oral rehydration salts: Great for stomach bugs or a hot day in the Andes.
  • Basic first-aid kit: Think plasters, antiseptic, painkillers, antihistamines.
  • Hand sanitizer: For long-distance bus rides and dodgy rest stops.
  • Prescription meds: Bring enough for your whole trip, plus a copy of your prescription – pharmacies won’t always stock your brand. 

Travel clinics

Book a visit to a travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before you fly. Some vaccines need time to work or come in multiple doses. Bonus: they’ll also give you the most up-to-date info if outbreaks are happening in certain regions.

How to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses in Argentina

You might not picture mosquitoes when you think of tango, glaciers, or gauchos – but don’t get complacent. Dengue fever is on the rise, especially in the humid northern provinces. Malaria? That’s a non-issue here. But dengue, chikungunya, and Zika? Still worth planning for – especially if you're heading north.

Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya

These are spread by Aedes mosquitoes, the kind that bite during the day. Dengue outbreaks happen every summer, particularly from November to May, in provinces like Misiones, Corrientes, Chaco, and Formosa. Even Buenos Aires has reported cases in hot, wet months.

Tips to avoid getting bitten:

  • Use repellent during the day, not just at night. Look for DEET (30% or higher) or picaridin (20%).
  • Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Choose accommodation with screens or air-con – or bring a mosquito net if you're staying somewhere rustic.
  • Avoid standing water – mosquitoes breed fast in puddles, flower pots, and water tanks.

If you feel unwell with fever, pain behind your eyes, and a rash, it could be dengue. Avoid ibuprofen or aspirin – they can make symptoms worse. Use paracetamol and get medical help.

Staying healthy in Argentina

Once you’ve got mosquito precautions sorted, there are a few other Argentina travel health tips worth knowing before you dive into a bottle of Malbec or a hike through Tierra del Fuego.

Rabies risk

Rabies exists in Argentina, though it's not common in urban areas. Bats are the main carriers, especially in rural or wilderness zones. Stray dogs are less of a problem here, but they’re still around.

If you’re scratched or bitten:

  • Wash the wound immediately with soap and clean water.
  • Disinfect with alcohol or iodine if you’ve got it.
  • Seek medical help quickly – even if you’ve been vaccinated, you’ll likely need post-exposure shots.

Planning long hikes, bikepacking, or time in remote areas? Consider getting vaccinated before you go.

Food and water safety

Argentinian food is generally safe – this isn’t a high-risk destination for stomach bugs. Still, it’s smart to take some basic precautions, especially in smaller towns.

  • Eat at busy parrillas (grill restaurants) and skip anything that’s been sitting out.
  • Avoid undercooked meat – tempting as that rare steak might be.
  • Tap water is generally safe in major cities, but stick to bottled or filtered water in rural areas or if you have a sensitive stomach.
  • If you’re camping or going off-grid, bring water purification tablets or a filter.

What to do if you get traveler’s tummy

Even with good food hygiene, things can go wrong – especially if you're not used to the rich meat-heavy diet or local water.

  • Rehydrate fast using oral rehydration salts.
  • Stick to the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast.
  • Avoid anti-diarrheal meds unless you really need them – let your body do its thing.
  • If symptoms last more than 48 hours, or you have a fever or blood in your stool, see a doctor.

Coping with heat, altitude, and pollution

Heat waves in Buenos Aires or the north can be intense in summer (December to February). Combine that with air pollution and it’s not ideal, especially for anyone with respiratory conditions.

  • Stay indoors from noon to 4 pm when it’s hottest.
  • Drink more water than you think you need.
  • Use an N95 mask if you’re sensitive to smog, especially in big cities or during bushfire season.

And if you're heading to high-altitude spots like Salta, Jujuy, or Mendoza:

  • Ascend gradually to give your body time to adjust.
  • Avoid alcohol and heavy meals for the first day or two.
  • Stay hydrated and rest if you feel lightheaded or out of breath.

Why travel insurance is a must

Healthcare in Argentina swings from excellent to barebones, depending on where you are. In Buenos Aires, Mendoza, or Córdoba, you’ll find modern private clinics with top-tier care. But twist your ankle hiking in Patagonia, crash a bike in the Andes, or get food poisoning in a backcountry town, and things get complicated fast. Medical bills add up quickly, and evacuation from remote areas is pricey. Solid travel insurance isn’t just a smart idea – it’s essential. Here’s what you need to know before choosing a policy.

What to look for in a policy

Not all travel insurance is created equal. Before you buy, check that your policy covers:

  • Medical coverage – You’ll want at least $100,000 for hospital stays, treatment, and prescriptions.
  • Emergency evacuation – Helicopter rides out of Patagonia or flights home after an accident can run into five figures.
  • Adventure sports – Planning to go hiking, skiing in Bariloche, or horseback riding in Salta? Make sure it’s included.
  • Trip cancellations and delays – Flights in Argentina can be delayed or canceled, especially during strikes or weather disruptions.
  • Lost or stolen belongings – Petty theft can happen, especially in big cities. Coverage for phones, laptops, and cameras is a must.

Trusted providers

These travel insurance companies are popular among travelers heading to South America – and they offer strong coverage for Argentina:

  • World Nomads – Good for adventure sports and active trips.
  • SafetyWing – A solid choice for digital nomads and long-term travelers.
  • Allianz Travel – Known for strong customer support and comprehensive medical coverage.
  • IMG Global – Includes evacuation, medical, and trip disruption plans.

Always read the fine print. Some policies exclude injuries from skiing, motorbikes, or high-altitude trekking unless you pay extra.

Hospital costs in Argentina

Argentina has public hospitals that offer free emergency care to foreigners, but don’t expect much comfort – or speed. In rural areas, public healthcare can be basic and overstretched. Private hospitals offer faster, more reliable care, but you’ll pay for it.

Here’s a rough guide to costs without insurance:

  • Doctor’s visit: $30-$100
  • Emergency room visit: $100-$300
  • Private hospital room: $200-$500 per night
  • Minor surgery: From $1,000 and up
  • Evacuation to another city or country: $10,000-$25,000+

Even a minor injury could derail your trip – and your bank account – without coverage. Don’t risk it.

Emergency help: what to do if you get sick

Even with careful planning, things can go off-script – think food poisoning in Mendoza, a twisted ankle in El Chaltén, or a bad fever in Iguazú. Here's how to get help quickly if your trip takes a turn in Argentina.

Emergency numbers

  • Medical emergency (ambulance): 107
  • General emergencies Buenos Aires City and Province: 911
  • Police: 101
  • Fire: 100
  • Civil Defense (natural disasters): 103

Tip: Save these numbers before you go, especially if you’re heading outside major cities, where response times can vary.

Best hospitals and clinics

Argentina’s public hospitals are free, even for foreigners, but quality and comfort vary. For faster service, go private, especially in cities – you’ll pay out of pocket, but the care is usually excellent and some staff speak English.

In remote areas, clinics may be basic, with limited supplies or staffing. If it’s serious, get to the nearest major city.

Pharmacies and minor issues

Pharmacies (farmacias) are everywhere – including small towns. Most are open late, and many rotate 24-hour service. Look for green neon crosses or ask locals where to find the farmacia de turno (on-duty pharmacy).

Pharmacists are trained and helpful, and you can usually buy basic meds without a prescription, including antibiotics, allergy relief, painkillers, and cold remedies.