Is It Safe in Cape Town? A Fearless Traveler’s Fact-Check

Considering Cape Town for your next trip but worried about safety? As a solo female traveler, I understand your concern, but with over 20 years of experience traveling to South Africa, I’m here to put those concerns to rest.

Cape Town is stunning, with Table Mountain, its surrounding vineyards and the penguins at  Boulders Beach’s. However, like any city, it does have its risks. I’ve learned its streets, balancing caution with the desire to see its wonders.

The secret to a safe visit is making smart choices – when to walk, use Uber, or when to relax safely at the Waterfront. It’s about using common sense and a bit of boldness to fully enjoy Cape Town. I’ll share the practical tips that have made my visits safe and memorable.

During the day, Cape Town buzzes with lively markets, the scent of rooibos tea, and vibrant street art begging for a spot on your socials. But come nightfall, the city takes on a different beat. That’s when solo travelers start wondering, “Is it safe in Cape Town?”

Here’s the lowdown: Daytime is playtime in the Mother City.

With a vigilant eye and street wisdom, you can walk Cape Town’s main roads and tourist areas safely during the day. Keep your belongings close, avoid creepy alleyways and keep your expensive tech out of sight. 

Now, when night falls, Cape Town likes to throw a bit of mystery into the mix. My top tip? Don’t play the daring nocturnal nomad. Instead, take a trusty Uber to zip you back to your lodging or to that bar you’ve been eyeing, even if it’s just a short walk.

Even in the touristy areas it’s better to avoid walking alone in the dark. 

The MyCiti buses are safe to use. Before you can ride them, you’ll need to purchase a myconnect card and load it with credit. Myconnect cards can be bought at station kiosks.

Alternatively, consider the Hop on-Hop Off bus. It’s not just a ride; it comes with perks like discounts or free entry to several Cape Town attractions. You can easily buy these tickets online.

Taking the train as a tourist used to be discouraged all together, due to pickpocketing and muggings. The main tourist line (Southern line) has improved its security measures recently, which means it is generally safe to use now.

The southern line is not only relatively safe, but also offers a charming experience. The train goes from Cape Town, through the southern suburbs and along the coast to popular stops like False Bay, Muizenberg, St. James, Kalk Bay and Fish Hoek. Increased security measures mean you can enjoy the scenic journey with a bit more peace of mind. Still, vigilance is key; watch your possessions and steer clear of night-time rides.

Purchase tickets at staffed stations—cash only, as there are no machines or reusable cards. If the ticket office is closed, you can usually buy a ticket from the train conductor. Keep your ticket handy; you’ll need it to enter and exit platforms and it’s frequently checked. Remember, there’s no service on Sundays or Public holidays, so plan accordingly.

For flexibility, get a ticket that allows you to hop on and off. You’ll want to stroll through delightful spots like Kalk Bay or see the colorful beach houses at Muizenberg. 

As for the other lines, they don’t get my stamp of approval for tourists. Stick to the southern line for a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

Yes, it’s generally safe to rent a car, as long as you don’t drive around in the wrong neighborhoods (see which areas to avoid mentioned above). I personally usually only rent a car when I am leaving the city, because for me it just feels more convenient to walk or take an Uber in a city.

If you are renting a car, try to book accommodation that has secure/private parking, so you don’t have to drive around looking for a place to park.

Always keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up, especially at traffic stops. Snatching phones or other valuables from cars that have the windows down is common in South Africa.

When you lock your car, double check the door handles. Car signal jamming does occur in South Africa.  

Obviously don’t leave any valuables (or anything really) in your car, always keep it stored in your hotel room or out of sight.

Uber is a reliable option for navigating the city, provided you use it correctly. Be wary of anyone at the airport or elsewhere claiming to be an Uber driver offering rides. Always book your rides directly through the app. Before entering the vehicle, confirm your name with the driver and double-check the license plate to ensure it matches the one in your app.

The question ‘Is it safe in Cape Town?’ often leads travelers to inquire about the safety of specific neighborhoods within the city. Understanding which areas are safer for tourists and which ones warrant extra caution can significantly enhance your travel experience.

• V&A Waterfront: Known for its high-security presence, the V&A Waterfront is a popular and safe destination for tourists, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
• Camps Bay and Clifton: These affluent suburbs are known for their stunning beaches and upscale lifestyle, attracting tourists seeking a safe and serene coastal experience.
• Constantia and Bishopscourt: Famed for their vineyards and lush landscapes, these areas are well-patrolled and offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city center.
• The City Bowl: This area, including neighborhoods like Gardens, Tamboerskloof, and Oranjezicht, is generally safe, especially during the day, with a vibrant urban atmosphere.

Avoid visiting Khayelitsha, Cape Flats, Kraaifontein, Langa, Nyanga and other townships by yourself. If you want to get a feel what life is like in South Africa’s townships, it’s best to take a tour led by a local guide. Solo exploration isn’t advised. Plus, signing up for a tour contributes financially to the local community.

In summary, when asking the question ‘Is it safe in Cape Town?’, it’s important to note that, like many major cities, Cape Town has neighborhoods that are very safe for tourists as well as areas where you have to be cautious. By staying informed and aware of your surroundings, you can safely enjoy the rich diversity and beauty that Cape Town has to offer.

My top picks for accommodation in Cape Town include the V&A Waterfront, Bakoven, Camps Bay, Clifton, Sea Point, and Fresnaye. These neighborhoods are not only safe for daytime strolls but also offer a delightful stay.

For a quaint, small-town atmosphere, Kalk Bay is a charming choice. This former fishing village, now a Cape Town suburb, invites leisurely coastal walks, seal-watching in the harbor, swimming in tidal pools, and browsing through art galleries and adorable local shops.

While addressing the question ‘Is it safe in Cape Town?’, it’s not just about crime rates and neighborhood safety; health and medical safety are equally crucial factors for travelers.

Understanding health precautions and knowing how to access medical care in Cape Town can greatly influence your overall safety and well-being during your stay.

Before traveling to Cape Town, ensure you’re up to date with routine vaccinations. Depending on your travel plans, vaccines like Hepatitis A and Typhoid are also recommended.

• Medical Facilities: Cape Town boasts an array of high-quality medical facilities. Private hospitals like Groote Schuur Hospital and Mediclinic Cape Town are well-equipped to handle a wide range of medical issues.
• Pharmacies and Prescriptions: Pharmacies are widely available, and many are open after hours. For prescription medications, it’s advisable to bring a sufficient supply, although most common medications are readily available.
• Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, dial 10177 for an ambulance. It’s also wise to have the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate handy.

When considering ‘Is it safe in Cape Town?’ from a health perspective, know that the city is well-prepared with adequate healthcare facilities and services.

When you take the necessary health precautions and are aware of how to access medical care, you can confidently enjoy your visit to this vibrant city.

The beaches at Clifton, Camps Bay, Muizenberg, Boulders Beach, Blouberg, and Fish Hoek are generally safe and great to visit.

However, always check for warning signs about water quality before taking a dip. Issues like failing pump stations and sewage spills regularly lead to pollution in the sea, posing health risks. 

Obviously don’t leave any valuables unattended on the beach while you go for a swim, rather take a waterproof bag with you for your phone and valuables.

Rip Currents

Cape Town’s beautiful coastline is also known for occasional rip currents and significant sea swells. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that can occur at any beach with breaking waves. They are a common and sometimes dangerous feature of Cape Town’s beaches.

What to Do If Caught in a Rip Current:

• Stay Calm: Panicking expends energy and can make the situation worse. Try to stay as calm as possible.
• Do Not Fight the Current: Rip currents are stronger than the strongest swimmers. Rather than swimming against it, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.
• Float or Tread Water: If you can’t swim out of the current, float or tread water. Rip currents are usually narrow, and you might escape their pull by doing this.
• Signal for Help: If you feel that you can’t reach the shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arms and yelling for help.

Awareness and Precautions:

• Check Conditions: Before entering the water, look for warning signs or flags indicating current beach conditions.
• Swim Near Lifeguards: Always choose to swim at beaches where lifeguards are present.
• Educate Yourself: Knowing how to identify rip currents can be lifesaving. They often appear as darker, calmer patches in the ocean, with fewer breaking waves.

Understanding the power of the ocean is essential for a safe beach experience in Cape Town. By being aware of rip currents and knowing what to do if caught in one, you can reduce the risk of danger while enjoying the stunning waters.

Trekking up Lion’s Head is a must-do for hikers in Cape Town. While it’s a popular solo hike, I strongly suggest going in a group for safety. Besides the risk of crime, solo hikers face dangers like injury with no one around to help – even a minor sprain can escalate into a serious issue.

Essential Hiking Safety Tips:

• Group Hiking: It’s safer to hike with a group or hire a guide who knows the area well. To find a group, try the MeetUp app.
• Stay Connected: Carry a fully charged phone and a backup power bank.
• Emergency Numbers: Keep local emergency contacts saved in your phone (refer to this article for numbers).
• Hydration Matters: Pack at least 1 liter of water for every 2 hours of hiking, better more than less.
• Stay on Track: Always stick to marked paths to prevent getting lost.
• Dress Appropriately: The weather in Cape Town can change quickly, so wear layers to adapt easily.
• Inform Others: Always tell someone your hiking plan and estimated return time.

Remember, preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in and around Cape Town.

When in Cape Town, keep an eye out for these common scams:

• Unsolicited Help at the Airport: Ignore offers of help from unofficial sources like taxi drivers, fake Uber representatives, or anyone claiming to be ‘airport agents’ or ‘tourist police’ – there’s no such thing. If you need assistance, head to an official desk.
• Meter-less Taxis: Always ensure the taxi meter is running. If it’s not, you might end up paying quadruple the fair rate.
• Drink Spiking: A sadly increasing issue globally. Never leave your drink unattended and don’t accept drinks from strangers.
• The ‘Friendly Chat’ Pickpocket: Someone might engage you in casual conversation as a distraction to steal from you. I once encountered this myself and was aware of it happening, but having my money securely hidden under my clothes and other valuables in the hotel safe, they left empty-handed.
• Unofficial Guides in National Parks: be cautious of locals posing as official guides. The goal is to lead you to remote areas for their accomplices to rob you, particularly on Table Mountain. Always book guides through licensed tour operators for safety.
• ATM and Credit Card Theft Awareness: at ATMs, don’t accept help from strangers, cover your PIN, and avoid using machines that seem damaged. If an ATM keeps your card, contact your bank to block it immediately. Use ATMs in secure locations like banks or malls and avoid withdrawing large amounts in public.
• Fake hotel shuttle driver: When you arrive at the airport, be cautious about being picked up by the wrong person. Before giving that person any information, ask who whe is supposed to pick up to confirm that the driver knows your name, the hotel or company you booked with, and your destination.

Always stay alert and trust your instincts to avoid falling prey to these scams. Being cautious and aware is the best defense.

• Leave the expensive jewelry at home.
• Only carry the things you need with you, leave the rest in the hotel safe. 
• When you are sitting down at a restaurant, keep your phone and bag out of reach of other people.
• Be cautious if someone approaches you on the street. It might be a homeless person asking for food, and while I sometimes help out, be aware it could also be a scam. It’s best to err on the side of caution. If you ever feel unsafe, head into a nearby shop or restaurant where others are present.
• Baboons are not your friend. Feeding by people has made some baboons aggressive. Keep a safe distance and ensure your car doors are locked when they’re nearby, as they’re known to enter vehicles in search of food.

When traveling in Cape Town, it’s a good idea to have the key emergency contact numbers at your fingertips. Whether you find yourself in an unexpected situation or face a serious emergency, knowing who to call can make all the difference. Here’s a list of important numbers to save in your phone or keep handy during your stay:

• General Emergency Number: 112
• Ambulance: 10177 
• South African Police Department: 10111
• Fire Department: +27 21 535 1100 
• Sea and Mountain Rescue Cape Town: +27 21 948 9900 
• Table Mountain National Park Emergencies: +27 21 480 7700

As we wrap up this guide, the question ‘Is it safe in Cape Town?’ deserves a nuanced answer. Yes, Cape Town, like many major cities around the world, faces its share of safety challenges. However, with precautions and awareness, it is a remarkably safe destination for travelers.

• Awareness is Key: Being street-smart and staying informed about the areas you plan to visit in Cape Town can significantly enhance your safety.
• Leverage Local Knowledge: Engage with local residents and service providers who can offer up-to-date advice and insights about navigating the city safely.
• Health Precautions Matter: Remember, your health is as important as your physical safety. Know how to access medical care if needed.
• Enjoy with Confidence: With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant urban life, Cape Town offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy what the city has to offer, keeping safety in mind but also embracing the adventure.

If you are ready to explore more of the country after your visit to Cape Town, don’t forget to check out the general safety tips for South Africa.

Also consider reading these article for planning your trip to the rainbow nation:

• South Africa through the Season, a Monthly Guide

• Cape Town Kirstenbosch Gardens: A Verdant Escape in the City

• Blyde River Canyon, a Panoramic Paradise

• The Best Time for a Safari in South Africa
• Animals of the Kruger Park in South Africa

For those curious about exploring beyond South Africa, consider delving into the introduction guide to Lesotho and eSwatini, countries in Africa.

Despite load shedding impacting water treatment plants in various parts of South Africa, Cape Town’s tap water remains safe to drink. Regular weekly testing ensures its quality, and you can easily access these test report online for your peace of mind.

There is no malaria risk in Cape Town due to its different climate, which is not conducive to the Anopheles mosquito.

While precautions against mosquito bites are always wise, malaria prophylaxis is not necessary for Cape Town visitors. However, for travel to malaria zones in northeast South Africa, including parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, as well as Kruger National Park, protective measures like antimalarial medication and mosquito repellent are advised. Always seek current medical advice before your trip.

Is Cape Town the safest city in South Africa?

Cape Town is considered one of the safer major cities in South Africa to visit, especially in tourist-frequented areas and certain suburbs. However, like any large city, it has areas that are less safe. Overall safety can vary depending on the specific location within the city.

Is Cape Town safe for solo female travelers?

Solo female travelers generally find Cape Town a safe and welcoming destination, provided they follow standard safety precautions like staying aware of their surroundings, avoiding risky areas, especially at night, and staying in well-reviewed accommodations.

Why is Cape Town considered dangerous?

Cape Town’s reputation for danger largely stems from high crime rates in certain areas, often linked to poverty, inequality, and gang activity. These issues are predominantly in areas that are not common tourist destinations.

Is it safe in Cape Town for tourists?

Yes, Cape Town is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas. The key to safety lies in staying informed, being cautious, and following advice on areas to avoid, especially after dark.

Is Cape Town safe at night?

Safety in Cape Town at night varies by area. Tourist-heavy areas like the V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay are generally safer, but it’s advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to use reputable taxi services.

Is Cape Town city centre safe?

The city centre of Cape Town is generally safe during the day, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. However, like many city centers, it’s wise to be more cautious at night and to stay in well-lit, populated areas.