South Africa : Safety by City
South Africa, sitting at the southern tip of the African continent, is a dream destination for many travelers.
It’s known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible wildlife.
In 2023, over 8 million international tourists visited the country.
Whether it’s the beaches, safaris, or vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone.
The country’s history is a mix of indigenous heritage, colonial influence, and the long fight against apartheid.
Since becoming a democracy in 1994, South Africa has grown into a fascinating place where the past and present come together in unique ways.
South Africa is made up of nine provinces, each with its own vibe.
The Western Cape is home to Cape Town and the scenic winelands, while Gauteng is the heart of the country’s economy, with bustling Johannesburg and Pretoria.
If you’re after beaches and cultural diversity, KwaZulu-Natal is a must.
The top three cities tourists flock to are:
- Johannesburg, the country’s largest city, full of history, nightlife, and shopping.
- Cape Town, with its iconic Table Mountain and scenic coastline.
- Durban, known for its warm waters, delicious Indian-influenced cuisine, and relaxed vibe.
The most famous safari destination is Kruger National Park, which spans across Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces.
You’ll see references to the Big Five, which refers to five of Africa’s most iconic and sought-after animals to see on safari: lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo.
While visiting South Africa is a bucket list for many, we have a safety list to share with you to make the most of the experience.
Warnings & Dangers in South Africa
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
South Africa offers incredible experiences, but safety is a concern, especially in major cities. Even some of the most popular national parks have had safety issues, but we're going to help you prepare for any incident throughout this guide. This is a medium risk.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
Public transportation can be unreliable and unsafe, with reports of theft and occasional violent incidents. Minibus taxis are known for reckless driving and overcrowding. Stick to reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Uber, and avoid public transport at night. It's worth investing in a trusted driver per the recommendation of your hotel, since the risk is high.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
This is a high risk, with many reports of pickpocketing and purse snatching that can quickly escalate to muggings. This is especially common in crowded tourist areas. Take the necessary steps to protect your stuff, and don't trust strangers, no matter how friendly they seem.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
South Africa has a relatively low risk of natural disasters. However, wildfires can be a concern during dry seasons, especially in the Western Cape. Occasional flooding and droughts may impact certain regions, but these events are typically localized and don’t pose major threats to travelers.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Muggings are a serious concern, particularly in urban areas like Johannesburg and Cape Town. Criminals often target tourists in isolated or poorly lit areas. Staying in busy, well-lit places, avoiding walking alone at night. Avoid beggars at all costs, and don't even interact with them, or it could turn into a robbery. One friend who visited South Africa recently suggested bringing a fake wallet with a small amount of cash in case you end up in a dangerous situation.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Several government agencies say that terror groups have become more prominent in the area, with the U.S. stating that ISIS is among the groups using the country as a logistics hub. Demonstrations and civil unrest are common. Treat this as a medium risk.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Tourists may encounter scams ranging from fake tour operators to ATM fraud and overpriced services. Be cautious of unsolicited offers, only use reputable companies, and verify credentials before booking tours or services. Always check bills carefully and be wary of distractions when handling money.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women traveling alone in South Africa might get some unwanted attention, especially in certain areas. Sticking to reputable hotels, using reliable transportation, and avoiding walking alone at night can go a long way in staying safe. Joining group tours and dressing more conservatively in some spots can also help keep things hassle-free.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg is generally safe to drink. However, in rural areas, water quality can be inconsistent, and bottled water is recommended. To be cautious, travelers may prefer to stick to bottled or filtered water throughout their trip.
Safest Places to Visit in South Africa
The country’s tourism website can be found at southafrica.net.
I must admit – it’s not the best tourism destination website I’ve seen.
If you’re looking to learn more about Cape Town, I recommend checking out www.capetown.travel instead.
We’ll start our brief overview of South Africa there, one of the top tourist cities.
Visitors can take a cable car up Table Mountain for panoramic views, explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining, and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
The city’s beaches, like Camps Bay and Boulders Beach (famous for its penguins), are also major draws.
Wine lovers can explore nearby Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, while adventure seekers can hike in Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, is a vibrant hub of history, culture, and urban energy (and also high crime rates, so be careful!).
Visitors can explore the Apartheid Museum, which offers a deep dive into the country’s past, or visit Constitution Hill, a former prison turned museum.
For shopping and dining, the upscale Sandton City and lively neighborhoods like Maboneng are popular spots.
Nature lovers can visit the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens or take a short drive to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with fascinating fossil discoveries.
South Africa’s national parks offer incredible wildlife and scenic landscapes, making them top spots for visitors.
Kruger National Park is the most famous, offering vast wilderness and the chance to see the Big Five on self-drives or guided safaris.
Addo Elephant National Park, near Port Elizabeth, is known for its large elephant herds and unique coastal terrain.
For dramatic scenery, Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State features stunning sandstone cliffs and hiking trails.
Tsitsikamma National Park, along the Garden Route, offers lush forests, coastal cliffs, and adventure activities like kayaking and canopy tours.
Places to Avoid in South Africa
It’s helpful to read the latest government advisories.
I tend to go right to the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, but you can choose the information from the country that you trust the most.
These advisories will generally list the dangerous parts of the country or a particular city.
I also want to note that Canada is especially descriptive when it comes to safety concerns and areas to avoid.
For example, in the advisory posted as I write this article, the Canadian government (travel.gc.ca/destinations/south-africa) says to avoid the following areas after dark:
- Berea
- Hillbrow and Yeoville in Johannesburg
- Sunnyside in Pretoria
- The beachfront and Victoria Wharf in Durban
- Cape Town downtown hotels to the waterfront
Traveling from South Africa to Mozambique is risky due to significant civil unrest following disputed elections in October 2024.
Widespread protests have led to violence, with over 130 fatalities reported.
The security situation remains volatile, with the potential for sudden escalations, making it unsafe for visitors.
Check your country’s latest travel advice to see if the tension has lifted or if the concerns are still present.
One of the overwhelming themes during my research was avoiding trying to find budget tour guides, hotels, or transportation.
Opt for trusted, vetted, and highly-rated options.
Hotels should have their own security, as that’s quite common for many hotels in tourist areas.
Safety Tips for Traveling to South Africa
- If you need help, dial 10111 for police assistance anywhere in South Africa. For tourist-specific issues, look for dedicated Tourism Police units in major cities and popular attractions. It’s a good idea to save your embassy’s contact info and ask your hotel for local emergency numbers, just in case.
- Stay informed by downloading apps like MySOS SA or following local news sources such as News24. Social media channels, like the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Twitter, often provide updates. It’s also smart to register with your country’s embassy for travel advisories and alerts during your stay.
- South Africa experiences scheduled power outages, known as load shedding, which can happen anywhere but are more frequent in cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. Check the EskomSePush app to track outages and plan ahead. Many hotels and restaurants have backup power. Ask before you book a place to stay.
- Before you travel, make sure your prescription meds are legal in South Africa. Some medications, like strong painkillers or ADHD treatments, may require special documentation. Bring your prescriptions in their original packaging, carry a doctor’s note, and check with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) for any restrictions.
- South Africa has health risks like malaria in parts of the northeast, including Kruger National Park. Get the right vaccines (think Hepatitis A, Typhoid), pack insect repellent, and consider malaria prophylaxis if you’re heading to high-risk areas. Tap water is generally safe in cities but stick to bottled water in rural areas.
- When visiting national parks, stick to designated areas and follow park rules—no getting out of your car during game drives! Keep a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding animals, and be mindful of park-specific guidelines. Rangers are your best source for safety advice, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.
- Wildlife encounters are thrilling but can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Never approach animals, especially elephants, lions, or hippos—they’re fast and unpredictable. When hiking, make noise to avoid surprising animals, and if you’re in snake-prone areas, wear closed shoes and watch where you step.
- If you have respiratory issues, check the daily air quality index in cities like Johanessburg, using apps like IQ Air and carry any necessary medication. Rural areas generally have cleaner air, but dust can be an issue in drier regions.
- Tourists can stand out, making them potential targets for scams or petty theft. Dress casually, avoid flashy jewelry, and keep cameras or valuables discreet. Walk with confidence, stay aware of your surroundings, and be cautious when discussing travel plans with strangers. A little street smarts go a long way.
- South Africa’s beaches are beautiful but can have strong currents, especially along the Atlantic coast. Always swim at lifeguard-patrolled beaches, watch out for warning flags, and be mindful of sharks in some areas—shark nets are in place at popular spots. Stick to designated swimming areas for the safest experience.
So... How Safe Is South Africa Really?
This country has been a bit of a headscratcher during my research.
That’s mostly because the U.S. State Department seems to err on the side of ranking a location more dangerous than it appears to be.
In some instances, representatives from those countries fire back with safety details.
However, for South Africa, The U.S. lists it at Level 2: Exercise Increase Caution.
Canadian authorities follow suit with “Exercise a high degree of caution,” which is also the second of a four-level advisory table.
The U.K.’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) details the risks but doesn’t give an advisory headline.
At the same time, there are plenty of South African articles talking about the safety risks and the need to tighten up security at prime tourist locations.
In December 2023, the government rolled out 2,300 Tourism Monitors across the country to boost security at tourist hotspots.
This is part of a broader National Tourism Safety Strategy that focuses on prevention, response, and support for travelers.
Despite these efforts, crime remains a concern.
The 2023 Global Peace Index ranked South Africa 126th out of 163 countries for safety.
Various Reddit forums have stories of robberies or thefts at night, with an emphasis on how the risk goes up exponentially after dark.
Again, these types of forums generally have people defending crime rates, saying, “It’s not that bad,” or “It’s no worse than New York City or London.”
I also spoke to several friends who have traveled extensively throughout the country over the past five years, and they said they never felt unsafe but also always stayed with a tour group or a guide.
Read the latest advisories before you go, and learn about the safety measures so you can maximize the experience in South Africa.
If any of this information has made you nervous about visiting South Africa, I wanted to share that Mauritius, Botswana, and Ghana were on the GPI list as the top three safest places in Africa.
How Does South Africa Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| South Africa | 48 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Australia | 86 |
| Slovakia | 80 |
| Greece | 73 |
| Norway | 85 |
| Mauritius | 80 |
| Kazakhstan | 72 |
| Germany | 85 |
Useful Information
Visas
Travelers to South Africa may need a visa, depending on their nationality. Many countries, including the U.S. and U.K., can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Applications for longer stays should be made in advance through South African consulates or embassies. Check official guidelines before traveling.
Currency
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR), with banknotes and coins available. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but card skimming and fraud are also common. Use cash whenever possible, especially when paying for parking. Currency exchange services are available at airports and banks.
Weather
South Africa’s climate varies by region. Summers (November to March) bring heat and rain in the northeast, while the Cape experiences dry, warm conditions. Winters (June to August) can be chilly, especially in inland areas, with temperatures dipping near freezing.
Airports
Major international gateways include O.R. Tambo in Johannesburg, Cape Town International, and King Shaka in Durban.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for South Africa. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. Be sure that "medical evacuation" is part of your coverage plan. Those planning a safari or high-risk activities should consider adventure insurance.
South Africa Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 30 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 20 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
| Low °C | 19 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 18 |
| High °F | 86 | 84 | 82 | 79 | 73 | 68 | 68 | 72 | 77 | 81 | 82 | 84 |
| Low °F | 66 | 66 | 63 | 57 | 50 | 45 | 45 | 46 | 52 | 57 | 61 | 64 |
South Africa - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bloemfontein | 33 |
| Boksburg | 33 |
| Cape Town | 43 |
| Durban | 40 |
| Johannesburg | 40 |
| Pietermaritzburg | 43 |
| Port Elizabeth | 65 |
| Pretoria | 19 |
| Randburg | 32 |
Lay Low And Be Cautious
This page is one big exaggeration, south Africa is generally very safe to visit but try and avoid walking in the night, do not show any indication of high wealth. just even handling your money in public can make you a victim of mugging, pick pocketing, and robbery. its not that safe of a place for women, sexual assault and rape is on the rise. visiting south Africa is like a gamble, it could go really well or really bad. south Africa is not a great paradise like many think and theirs actually better places to go in Africa to see the nature or go on a safari. being white in this country is a issue too. police will stop you in the streets and demand money no joke. your seen as a walking ATM machine. so lay low and be cautious. i know it might seem bad after all i said but if you lay low and do everything ive said in this paragraph then you can have a great, safe trip to South Africa
Yet another unsafe African country
“visiting south Africa is like a gamble, it could go really well or really bad”
Sounds like a real dream destination to me. Watching my back constantly? No thanks, I prefer Europe and Asia. If one day I should be tired of life…..I come visit Africa (for assisted suicide).
I have lived in Johannesburg for 49 years. I have been a victim of crime twice.
Both times were caused by my stupidity and lack of awareness.
Reading all these reviews is quite sad because most of them are just made-up nonsense.
The police don’t demand money from you, they will accept bribes though, but you are not forced.
If you are hassled then you’ve probably done something wrong.
I would also love to know about these instances of terrorism?
The only time we hear that word is watching the news and always involving European countries.
Most of the people leaving reviews have probably never even been here. Including the person who wrote the review.
Agreed
This makes more sense because America has more terrorists, murder and crime because of the color of skin not because they did wrong. I would not want to be there it is worst than Cape town 👀👀
SA is Safer than America
Agree. The high risk is way over rated. I have lived in Joburg for 12 years and 25 years in NYC. NYC under Mayor David Dinkin in the 90’s was much worse than Joburg. I have also experienced 1993 World trade centre bombing I worked right across and 9/11/2001I was in Manhattan saw the 2nd plane hit live. I have never experienced that in SA.
No, SA is safer than NYC. NYC is a crap hole, 80% of USA is nothing like NYC, I have lived in America my whole life, and could not be paid to visit NYC. I also lived in Bloemfontein SA and the country is much safer than people who have never been there are reporting.
Well white guy from South Africa who lived with his family in Cape Town, confirmed me high risk of robbery, murder. He was gun pointed 3 times so far. He said South Africa is not safe for the white people.
I agree with you. I’m wealthy from USA and had a great month in SA. We drove and stayed in Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Bloubergstrand, Jeffreys Bay, Margate, East London, Port Elizabeth, Durban, Pretoria, JoBurg, and Hartbeespoort. What an amazing time. No fears. There are scarier places in the US, especially with all our mass shootings.
I love South Africa
I have lived in South Africa all my life, but I have travelled extensively. Honestly the crime here is not that much different to that of London or New York. Yes you do have to be careful in some areas, just like any big city. The coastline is exquisite, the Big 5 breathtaking and the people incredibly friendly. The police are not all out to get you. Yes crime happens, but often because you are not aware eg bag over chair, easy opportunity. Give it a chance, it’s an incredible country.
You’re a clown and a racist and have probably never been on the continent. I am wealthy from the USA and visited South Africa for a month. Our family drove and stayed in so many places from Cape Town to Durban up to JoBurg. It was an amazing, safe trip. We even went into the ghettos. At noo point did we ever feel nervous!
Skip South Africa
Yeah ok rape not that bad. 😳🤷🏻♀️
Follow guidance..skip South Africa..
Choose life.
I will wait
I really wanted to visit this year and then a colleague told me her brother that lives in Joburg recently got robbed because their automatic gate wasn’t working and he left the car to check.
Not looking wealthy and white is probably the best way to stay safe.
All about research
As 70 & 75-Year-old South Africans we still travel extensively around the country – since covid March 2020 probably around 30 000 kilometers of cris crossing the country. Not a single adverse event by sticking to some basic safety rules. The poster above has pointed out a few things and here are some more: Travelling around the country would be a good idea to travel in groups – that ensure that there is help at hand if there are breakdowns. Traveling with a South African is also a good idea, Ask us – we like to travel. We are planning an 8-day flower tour again in August with 8 vehicles ( 18 persons ) and traveling about 3400 kilometers in total. Spend time chatting to South African travel population and you can really have a ball…………………….
The article is exaggerated and so are you a bit. It is not that serious. My family had a wonderful time there last year. We are from USA. My husband makes very good money. We were there for a month and handed out money and all of that with no incidents. We drove around in a beautiful BMW SUV. We never felt in danger. We went to the beach at night during load shedding. It was so much fun. We are looking forward to visiting another month this year.
Be careful and everything will be okay
Thanks for the train tip! We visited South Africa for my colleague’s wedding and now we plan on returning there just the two of us. Johannesburg is a great city, you just have to watch your bags, I’ve seen a lot of suspicious faces around me a lot of times.
Always go with a travel buddy
Whenever I’m travelling alone I do my best to pick safe destinations. Yes, I want to enjoy myself and explore cool places but I also want to make sure I make the flight home safe and well. South Africa sure has its perks but I decided to visit it with my father and it proved to be a very wise decision, he’s way more cautious than me.
I stay in Port Elizabeth, South Africa and just like any other country there are areas to avoid.
All in all, we have a great country, try not to stand out too much and you’ll be fine.
You have to be cautious at all times
I understand that South Africans always get upset when travellers mention they felt unsafe. South Africans naturally behave much more careful than (for instance) Europeans, who are used to live in a safe world and don’t even know what real danger means. If you grew up in South Africa you will never be as careless as a European. Never ever. So they don’t understand what we mean when we say it doesn’t feel safe because if you play by the rules it is considerably safe. I have lived in South Africa for a while and being European I can tell you it is an issue to be white and when you are a foreigner they always try to scam you. It’s just a natural thing. What to me is actually the biggest issue is that you are not free, because you always have to be cautious. Always and everywhere.
As a white person I wouldn’t go to SA as the reported genocide (or rather the lack of deserved coverage for it) is terrifying. First in the world for rape and Joburg is basically a no go zone.
Yikes
I don’t know why you mention “as a white person,” since it sounds really unnecessary. It doesn’t matter in this country. You’re a target no matter what race you are.
Um? really! oh Wow!
You haven’t heard of People like Malema also know as the Black Hitler of our times or Zuma singing kill white people? Zuma was the President of the country while doing such things.
My friend, you need a big wakeup call.
not really. in south africa and the rest of Africa, having a different skin tone means you stand out. White people are seen as walking atm machines and have a very high chance of getting scammed. Theres also a lot of bad history and a lot of racial tension in SA. Genocide is definitely an overstatement but there is a mass murder streak of white farmers in the country, so avoid staying on farms too.
minder
Not a welcoming safe place
Makes sense. Since the Farmers who are white are being attacks and killed to be thrown out of the country there is a political and racial hatred there. Land Appropriation without Compensation and BEE policies by the ANC, the EFF and BLF politics makes white minorities and visitors targets. The Country collapsed back in 2020 with ESKOM the electric grid failing along with many infrastructures failing as well.
Dangerous for whites
My buddy grew up in SA and he said the other day, “I’ll never go back. Anyone who says it’s safe is lying.” This is from a white, English South African whose parents still live there, and who has traveled all over the world.
Well, um, Afrikaans ZAs and English ZAs don’t get on. All South Africans (should) know that. The AZA’s see the EZAs as snobby. Some are to be honest.
As a AZA I know a few EZAs and some (not all) DO think they are to good to learn the language and DO think they are better then the AZAs. But loads of EZAs are nice and willing to try to learn Afrikaans.
Also, I am white, but that’s because my great great someone moved to South Africa from the Netherlands. I have been snubbed, but when I speak Afrikaans they see I’m an AZA and all tension is lost.
So yes, I agree that South Africa isn’t safe for EZAs or white people (unless you are a white AZA like I am) because of Apartheid. But you have to understand why.
Jo’burg, City of Gold
Absolutely untrue. I have lived in Johannesburg for 40 years, and have only felt unsafe in run-down areas in the city centre. As a white woman, I have sat and drawn street life in many suburbs in this beautiful city. Our people are friendly, and you are no more at risk than in any other big city.
I am white and feel safe. I have lived in the UK for 13 years and at a times felt more unsafe there at times as here. I have been back for 6 years and will never go back, I will never love anywhere else than here. J1it is what you make of it. Just be sensible people no matter where you are. There’s no utopia but SA is damn well the closets you will find to it.
South Africa is a great country, with great people. Just be sensible like you would anywhere else.
Depends Where You Go
It’s a huge country with varying degrees of safety. Some cities you’ll feel watched, others you’ll feel like a local. So it really depends on where you’re going. Just like many big countries it’s not just one simple thing. Imagine judging the USA based on LA. So be sensible and you’ll be okay. There are over 10 million tourists each year so it’s really not that bad. The beauty on the other hand will take your breath away
Totally agreed… Couldnt have said it better…
Terrible country!
When I traveled to this country 2 years ago, well, it was horrid. The people are terrible. The police is terrible and scared of the people, therefore no control over them. The food is great. The scams are high. The rape is high. The murder rates are always high. Communicating with anyone is terrible. The hygiene and sanitation is terrible. Petty crime is high. Someone can easily walk into a store and hold you up while others just casually stare at you as if it’s a daily occurrence, without helping you in any way. This country is crappy and it’ll tear itself apart within a few decades if nothing improves. Don’t waste your time coming here. You’ll probably never come back, but, if you do, you’ll be scarred or realize just how awful a country and its people can be. Please, please, PLEASE DO NOT listen to the reviews that say this is even an OKAY country to visit!! It isn’t!
Whites
The problem with most african countries is that white people stand out in a crowd, and are seen as a walking atm. we are more likely to get scammed. Now in south Africa, there’s extreme racial tension, plus the history of apartheid. So you will be treated very poorly.
Very dangerous
After reading reviews here and confirming the accuracy. I’ll never set my foot on this stinkhole called South Africa.
Have you even been to the country?
How can you say that South Africa is very dangerous if you haven’t even set foot in the country?
Wise choice!
I’m Zimbabwean and can confirm that ,yes South Africa isn’t the safest country but its definitely not a ‘stink hole ‘ or as bad as it looks or seems just be mindful and practice precaution and I assure you, you will enjoy your stay. it is a wonderful place to go to and enjoyable.
The supporting looters and lootenants of Jacob Zuma have risen up in mass riots, looting and murder nationwide. This is because of the incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma as of July 2021. The danger level is very high up to level 4. DO NOT come here because the infrastructure is being destroyed. Electricity and other services have been destroyed by the mass terrorist riots.
Would a 63 yo white woman need to be concerned about rape?
You could be 100 year old lady or one month old baby rape is happens no matter the age.
South Africa was my home since birth love the country it have recently emigrated to the UK its very unsafe the racism is rife the energy sucks and you have to live behind security bars and cameras and alarms it’s stressful the poverty is awful no government support nothing works it breaks my heart to see it go this way as it’s such a beautiful country but has no support for the poor as it’s totally unequal
Country is kind of rough right now
People can go their entire life in SA without being the victim of a crime obviously, but that doesn’t change the fact that the homicide rate (36.4/100,000) was literately higher than Pakistan (4), Afghanistan (7), Syria (1), Iraq (10) and the US (5), and Yemen (7) combined in 2020.
I have traveled here three times and spent probably 1/3 or so of my time staying in townships, 1/3 in hotels in cities, and 1/3 doing the usual tourist safari stuff, so have seen a bunch of the country. Generally: some parts are totally safe, but most of the country is fairly safe during the day and a big no-go at night. A lot of bad stuff has happened in SA’s history and the economy hasn’t been in great shape in recent years. There are other amazing countries nearby where you can get off the beaten path and be a lot more free to explore the beauty of the cultures and places- Botswana, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique and others
It Depends on How Much You Know as Well as Where You Go
As someone living in South Africa, and reading the mixed reviews, I do just want to add a little. Is South Africa safe? It entirely depends on where you are, what you are doing, and your understanding of the culture. I often drive in Pretoria, but because of my knowledge, I never go to the CBD or major city areas. I always travel during the day and stay over at night. There will always be a small risk of getting mugged, assaulted etc, but that generally happens to people who are not paying attention, traveling around at night, and not watching their surroundings. Is it exhausting? Yes and no, you get used to it. And here are some top tips if you do want to visit South Africa:
Do not use Taxis, use Uber
Do not have your phone or valuables out in public, or headphones
Go in a group if you can
Never have your phone visible inside your vehicle either
Always check the reviews of the places you are staying
If you can, make connections with trustworthy (hear me now, trustworthy) South Africans in the area, and find out which places to avoid and which places to visit. It’s even better if you can travel with a local friend because they will practice common sense and safety for you. I myself know the top spots which is great to visit and the top spots where I never go
Don’t dress like a tourist. What do I mean by that? Dressing normally will allow you to actually blend in from the crowd. Because South Africa is such a diverse nation, it’s a lot easier to blend in than you think
Understand that South Africans are mixed cultures and races, but as a whole, in shops, malls, and entertainment areas, you will find a lot of South Africans to be very friendly and helpful. There is a whole lot of bias, stereotypes, and myths as well as an exaggeration that does run in the country. Yes, it has its issues and gender-based violence is one of them. Each and every country does have its fair share of problems. But don’t let this stop you from visiting if you want to visit. Just do a little more research, follow the tips and advice from people, and overall you should be fine.
Don't Live in Fear BUT Don't Underestimate Danger
I’ve spent a total of a year of time in the country, spread over a number of trips. I’ve known many locals and have heard their stories. Most of these locals were white and quite well off. I’ve spent in time in all the major cities, and I’ve self-driven most of the country.
The truth is, it is a dangerous place. It is perfectly safe for you… until it is not. It can all change in a moment. It really is just a matter of luck to some extent. I have personally known people robbed at gun point in very upmarket areas, people car-jacked, people suffering home invasions. It is common, it simply is. There are many videos posted online of these types of events. It looks like the wild west in many of them.
As a tourist employing a high degree of common sense and situational awareness, you’re likely to enjoy a few weeks vacation there and return home happy, intact, and with some terrific memories. However, there is no denying the fact that the odds against that, though still relatively low, are much higher than if you spent your vacation in Tokyo.
One personal story… I was last there two years ago, just before the world lost it’s mind. We had the new experience of being stopped by the police one evening. We were returning from dinner in an upmarket area of Cape Town. There were several police officers just standing at the side of the road, waiving SELECTED vehicles over. We met the criteria, and were waived over and told that, due to a very minor infraction, the car would have to be seized and we would have to be taken to the station. It was clear from the theatrics employed that this was simply a ruse to extract a bribe. We held fast and agreed to the proposed legal consequences if that was must happen. Once the 3 officers realized that no cash was coming their way, they simply allowed us to go on our way.
Would I return… likely. It will depend on how much more poor and desperate the average citizen is in the wake of the changes brought by the last 2 years. If tourist infrastructure is permanently lost, it may make the few tourists who do go stand out in an unwelcome fashion.
A nice country to visit
While there are certainly some cities (but especially areas within some cities) that are unsafe, I can’t say that I agree that South Africa, overall, is an unsafe country. Does it have it’s share of crimes, pickpocketing, muggings, rapes and so on? Yes, it does. But you can generally keep on the safe side by just paying attention, avoiding going out at night alone and avoiding particular areas which you should learn about before traveling anywhere, not just SA.
I don’t think this country can be added to HIGH when it comes to terrorism risks. Yes, something bad can happen here as it can happen across the world but adding a HIGH red sign to it doesn’t seem fair. If this country is high then what about other places that have to deal with the threat of terrorism on a daily or weekly basis?
From personal experience and from other people’s experiences I can say that Johanesburg is pretty safe. Yes, the Police can take bribes (I’ve had it happen) but it’s nothing I haven’t seen in other cities I’ve been in Europe, Asia, etc. It can happen all around the world. The Police is made of people and some of them will take bribes. But that doesn’t mean the police are hostile or doesn’t do its job. Overall, they seem to be doing a good job of keeping things safe.
I don’t agree that visiting South Africa can be a gamble. If you learn about the bad places in each town and avoid them, pay attention to your surroundings, don’t go out alone at night and mind your own business, you will be just fine. The South African people are generally friendly, hospitable and welcoming and their culture is wonderful. Just ask around for people that have been in this country and most will have good things to say.
Is it safe travelling with a group of tourists? There will be a local guide. After reading the bad reviews I feel like cancelling the tour.
Overall : safe enough
There are no damn terrorists in south Africa bro… WTF IS WRONG WITH U GUYS
They are racists. SA is amazing!
Been there, it was safe and friendly
SoWeTo and Johannesburg has been very safe and very plessant to visit, and I (if it really matters) are a white person. The most friendly people in the world is in SA, and I would gladly go back anytime.
Visit South Africa.
I am South African and have been in South Africa for 23 years. It breaks my heart that people who haven’t ever been to South Africa warns other people not to visit. Yes South Africa isn’t the savest country to visit, but it also isn’t as unsafe as people make it out to be. We have beautiful beaches, so much culture and some of the best food you will ever have. South Africans are some of the most welcoming and loving people you will ever meet. If you do your research well, visit the right places at the right time (for example not walking alone after dark in an unsafe neighbourhood) travel in a group, being aware of what’s going on around you etc. your chances of getting robbed, or feeling unsafe is very scarce. I have visited other countries and there is not one I will ever exhange for South Africa.
Beautifull but risky country
Both of our tour guides who lived their entire life in SA told us they wouldn’t come here for a visit. They told us that white people are fleeing the country. You see so many “for sale” signs in cape town suburbs, and one guide told us it is because external investors are closing their buisnesses in SA. That says it all. To be honest, we only started feeling very unsafe in Cape Town, but throughout our trip in garden route, you do feel the tension. As someone else said, there are many other places to visit.
I met a white, Afrikaner lady online in 2016. I am a white, American male male, and I moved from Arizona to Bloemfontein SA to be with my lady, where we got married. Whoever these people are, (probably Europeans) dogging this country have no idea what they are talking about. I arrived at airport in Joburg and drove alone in rental car to Bloemfontein. I made 1 stop in Joburg for snacks, and one stop in Kroonstadt for a break. I never once felt unsafe, everyone was very friendly, struck up a conversation at both places with black folks, no issues. I lived in Bloemfontein for 1.5 yrs, but visited Kimberley, Kuruman, Cristiana, Scweizer-Reneke, Vryburg and Bulfontein, never had a problem in these places. We walked at night, we went out at night, the boogie man did not rob us. I would tell everyone, stay out of the high crime districts, shop, work, play and relax in the safe parts of the towns you visit, and you will have my experience. The people of SA are great. We are now (2022) married, living in AZ, but retiring in Upington. That is how bad I think it is. If Europe is so great, stay there!
I have lived in SA my entire life, and believe this summary, as sad as it is, is more accurate than not. Travellers need to practice common sense and never let their guard down. Yes, SA is unsafe, but in most parts of the world, locals will take advantage of people they can see are lost or overly trusting. Make sure you book your tours with reputable companies. Never use a taxi, rather Uber or use Bolt or rent a car. Try to park in designated parking lots. If you do go out at night, make sure you’re travelling in a group. Women should not travel to SA alone. If you wish to explore informal settlements, limit your adventures to Soweto, and again, only through reputable travel agencies. Try to stay out of central business districts in Johannesburg and Pretoria. And never flash cash or use your phone in public.
Great country but be careful
I have visited South Africa over 20 times as my wife is from Durban and myself from the UK. I would say that SA is one of the most beautiful country’s that I have been to. I mostly stay in Durban area as we still have some family there , all others have left due to political restrictions and danger and crime rate. Every member of my family has been a victim of crime from home invasions to mugging and car jacking . I have seen this get worse as the years have gone on. You need to be extremely vigilant when travelling and always keep car doors locked and windows up. Be careful at road junctions and traffic lights. I never walk streets at night and only in groups in day time. I never wear jewellery and only carry essentials with my money on a pre paid debit card. All this being said SA has some fantastic places to vist with breath taking scenery especially the Drakensberg and garden route from Durban to Cape Town . Game parks also a definite recommend . My main advice would be plan routes carefully and use reputable travel companies and you should have a great time.
South Africa is worse than the US on every crime metric. Rapes, robberies, stabbings, shootings, kidnappings, car-jackings, you name it, so I don’t blame people for their caution. You lead the world or are top 5 in most of these statistics.
One of the highest in the world for rape, robbery, murder by gun, murder by knife, murder overall, carjackings, etc.
Avoid at all cost.
From personal experience, avoid at all cost! A sewage farm is a complimentary description. However, if you insist on visiting this “fabulous” country, do so at your own peril!