Travelling in South Africa is a thrilling experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible culinary delights. However, like any destination, it comes with its own set of challenges, and being mindful of safety is essential for making the most of your trip. With the right precautions, travellers can explore with confidence while enjoying everything the country has to offer. Here are some practical safety tips to keep in mind when visiting South Africa.
One of the most important aspects of safe travel is choosing the right accommodation. Opt for well-reviewed hotels, lodges, or guesthouses in reputable areas. In cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, staying in neighbourhoods known for tourism—such as the V&A Waterfront, Sandton, or Umhlanga—provides a safer environment. Many hotels offer secure parking, 24-hour security, and controlled access, which adds an extra layer of safety. Airbnb is also a viable option, but it’s important to check reviews and ensure that the host has a history of positive feedback.
Transport safety is another key factor when exploring South Africa. If hiring a car, it’s advisable to stick to reputable companies such as Avis or Europcar. Be aware that road conditions can vary, and some areas, especially rural roads, may have potholes or poor lighting. Always keep doors locked while driving, avoid stopping in isolated areas, and use GPS navigation to plan routes in advance. When travelling in major cities, the Gautrain in Johannesburg and Pretoria is a safe and efficient way to move around, particularly between OR Tambo International Airport and key locations such as Sandton and Rosebank. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are generally safe but should be used with caution—always check the driver’s details before getting into a vehicle and avoid late-night rides alone.
Public transport, particularly minibus taxis, is best avoided by tourists unless accompanied by a local who understands the system. These taxis are often overcrowded, poorly maintained, and operate without strict schedules. Instead, metered taxis from reputable providers or pre-arranged private shuttles are better alternatives. In Cape Town, the MyCiTi bus system is a reliable and safe public transport option for reaching popular attractions like Table Mountain and Camps Bay.
When out exploring, personal safety should always be a priority. South Africa has a high rate of petty crime, particularly in busy areas, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant. Keep valuables such as phones, wallets, and cameras out of sight and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Consider using a money belt or a crossbody bag with anti-theft features. Be especially cautious at ATMs—use machines located inside banks or shopping malls, and shield your PIN when entering it. If you need cash, withdraw small amounts and avoid doing so at night.
Scams can be an issue in tourist-heavy areas, so be wary of strangers offering unsolicited assistance or deals that seem too good to be true. A common scam involves people posing as police officers asking for on-the-spot fines—if this happens, ask for proper identification and insist on paying fines at a police station. Another frequent scam targets card payments at restaurants or petrol stations, where fraudsters attempt to swap or clone bank cards. Always keep your card in sight and, if possible, request that the transaction be completed in front of you.
Walking around cities, especially after dark, requires extra caution. In places like Johannesburg and Pretoria, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night and instead opt for a taxi or ride-hailing service. Cape Town’s city centre is generally safe during the day, but it’s advisable to stay in well-lit areas and stick to busier streets after sunset. If hiking in the mountains or visiting nature reserves, it’s wise to go in groups, as some trails have reported cases of muggings. Popular hiking spots like Lion’s Head and Table Mountain are best tackled early in the day when there are more people around.
For those visiting South Africa’s stunning beaches, safety should also extend to water activities. Always swim at designated beaches with lifeguards, such as Clifton, Muizenberg, or Durban’s Golden Mile. Pay attention to warning flags indicating strong currents or shark activity. Many beaches in South Africa have shark spotters who provide real-time updates on safety conditions. In addition, avoid leaving belongings unattended on the sand, as opportunistic theft can occur, especially in busy areas.
Dining out is one of the highlights of visiting South Africa, and the country boasts an incredible range of restaurants, from high-end establishments to vibrant street food vendors. When eating out, choose restaurants in well-populated areas and avoid secluded locations at night. In Cape Town, restaurants like The Test Kitchen Fledgelings and Kloof Street House offer fantastic dining experiences in safe environments. In Johannesburg, Marble in Rosebank and DW Eleven-13 in Dunkeld are excellent choices for a secure and high-quality meal. If sampling street food, opt for well-established vendors with high customer turnover, as this often indicates freshness and food safety.
Staying connected is also important for safety, as having access to maps, transport apps, and emergency contacts can be invaluable. Purchase a local SIM card from trusted providers like Vodacom, MTN, or Telkom upon arrival to ensure you always have access to mobile data. Many accommodations and cafés offer free Wi-Fi, but avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking, on public networks.
In case of emergencies, knowing the local emergency numbers can make a difference. The national emergency number in South Africa is 10111 for police assistance and 112 for mobile phone emergencies. Private security services like ADT and Fidelity are widely used and can often respond quicker than local law enforcement in urban areas. If medical help is needed, Netcare and Life Healthcare hospitals provide excellent private healthcare services.
Despite the challenges, South Africa is an incredibly rewarding travel destination. By taking these safety precautions—choosing secure accommodation, being mindful of transport choices, staying alert in public spaces, and using common sense—travellers can enjoy all the beauty, adventure, and delicious food the country has to offer with peace of mind. Whether exploring bustling city streets, scenic coastal roads, or breathtaking safari lodges, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a safe and unforgettable trip.