Is South Africa Safe to travel to? Essential Travel Safety Tips
Introduction to Safety in South Africa
You might be asking yourself, ‘Is South Africa safe to travel to, and who is this person offering advice?’ As a solo female traveler who’s made South Africa my base for the better part of the last two years, I can offer some firsthand insights.
My experiences here, spanning more than twenty years of self-driven adventures, have equipped me with valuable insights into navigating this diverse and vast country safely.
In this article, I’ll share essential safety tips and insights that have guided me through my own travels. You’ll learn about the safer havens as well as local intricacies that every traveler should know.
Safety in South Africa as a Tourist
You might wonder if South Africa is really safe to visit as a tourist, considering it ranks third highest on the list of countries with a high crime rate.
The high crime rate in South Africa is mainly driven by factors such as poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, and inequality. Even though the stats look worrying, the truth is, traveling in South Africa isn’t as risky for tourists as many people think.
Like anywhere else in the world, most incidents involving tourists are petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse snatching, or phone theft, especially in crowded locations.
Along with the usual safety steps you’d take anywhere, I’ve got some personal tips for staying safe in South Africa down below. They’ve helped me keep my travels trouble-free for over 20 years.
Transportation Safety in South Africa
Renting a Car
Renting a car is my top choice for traveling around South Africa. With limited reliable public transport options, a car offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, from the Garden Route to hidden gems.
Just remember to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and conditions. South Africa drives on the left, and road conditions can vary. Also, watch out for pedestrians, wildlife and livestock on the roads!
Safety Tips for Driving in South Africa
While most journeys are trouble-free, it’s common sense to take some safety precautions when driving. I typically rent a car only when leaving the city. In the city, using Uber or a taxi is easier. It avoids parking hassles, lets me enjoy a drink with meals, and prevents accidentally driving into unsafe areas.
These are my top tips when it comes to safety while driving in South Africa:
- Steer clear of night driving: you might encounter pedestrians, livestock, and wildlife on the roads, often too late to see them clearly. Plus, many secondary roads have potholes that could lead to blowouts or accidents. Also, be aware that drunk driving increases, especially in December, making nighttime roads riskier.
- Be cautious of the ‘flat tire’ scam: I’ve heard stories about people flagging down tourists for a supposed flat tire or car issue, only to rob them once they stop. If you suspect a tire issue or any car problem, it’s safer to continue to a petrol station or another public, safe spot to check. It’s better to risk damage to the car than to risk a mugging. I once had an Uber driver in Cape Town that did the same, driving on a flat tire to reach a safe spot.
- Windows and Doors: Your rental car will probably lock its doors automatically once you start driving. If it doesn’t, make sure to lock them yourself. When driving through city areas, it’s wise to keep your windows rolled up and store any valuables out of sight and reach
- Urban areas and traffic stops: be extra vigilant in urban areas, because snatching phones or other valuables from the car while waiting at a traffic stop does happen.
- Offline Maps and Route Planning: Download maps before your trip to stay guided without network access. Be extra cautious near Johannesburg and Cape Town airports to avoid unsafe neighborhoods.
- Dealing with Police Stops: Corruption among traffic officers is rising. I faced this three years ago when an officer falsely accused me of speeding and demanded an immediate ‘fine.’ I refused and suggested settling at the Traffic Department. Traffic officers can’t legally ask for on-the-spot fines.
- Overtaking: On two-way roads, it’s common for drivers wanting to overtake to be given space by the car in front moving onto the shoulder. The overtaking driver typically acknowledges this courtesy by flashing their hazard lights. If you choose to follow this practice, always check the shoulder first for any pedestrians, parked cars, or livestock.
- Car guards: a lot of places have (un)official guards looking after the parked cars and helping you with groceries. Give them a tip (10 rands should be okay) afterwards.
- Don’t leave valuables in the car: this speaks for itself and is the same as back home. Just don’t leave anything visible in your car when you park it somewhere, even if it might not be all that valuable.
- Don’t pick up hitch-hikers: Many people in South Africa have no choice but to rely on unreliable public transport or hitchhike. While it’s tough to pass by someone in need of a ride, for safety reasons, it’s generally advised not to pick up hitchhikers.
- Avoid entering Kruger Park through Numbi gate: this seems to be a favorite spot for corrupt traffic officers and criminals. Use one of the following gates to enter the Southern part of the Kruger Park instead: Malelane, Crocodile bridge or Orpen.
- Pay Directly at Toll Gates: Be wary of scams where people try to sell toll badges or tickets at petrol stations. Your rental car will probably already have a toll badge. If it doesn’t, you can easily pay with cash, debit, or credit card right at the toll gate.
- Protests and Unrest: Always ask your accommodation about road conditions and potential protests before heading to your next stop. This way, you can take a different route if necessary
- Manually Lock Your Car: With the increasing use of car signal jammers worldwide, it’s safer to lock your car manually when possible. If your car only locks automatically, always double-check the door handles to ensure it’s actually locked.
With these precautions in mind, self-driving is the best way to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and diversity of South Africa.
Public Transportation Insights
Public transport safety and reliability varies a lot. The following transportation services are generally safe to use:
- Long distance buses like Greyhound, Intercape and Translux
- Gautrain
- Baz Bus
- Hop-on Hop-off bus
- Uber
- Luxury trains like Rovos Rail and The Blue Train
What to avoid:
- Minibus taxis, as they frequently aren’t in the best condition and their drivers often have a risky driving style.
- Taxis that are offered at the airport, use the taxi-desk instead.
- Uber rides that you didn’t personally order.
- Inter-city trains.
- Leaving your luggage unattended in the train.
Private Transport
If you don’t want to drive or take public transport, you could always use a private shuttle service like Sable Tours or Swift Kruger Shuttles to get to your destination, which are safe to use.
Accommodation Guide: Safe and Risky Areas
In South Africa, you’re spoiled for choice with accommodations, ranging from stunning beachside Airbnbs to luxurious safari lodges.
Generally, the places you’ll find online are safe. However, in urban areas, there are some neighborhoods best avoided. To ensure a stress-free stay, always check out reviews from other travelers before booking
What are the Safe Neighborhoods in Cape Town?
For a safe stay in Cape Town, top picks are V&A Waterfront, Bakoven, Camps Bay, Clifton, and Fresnaye. These areas are known for their general safety.
Or, for something different, try Kalk Bay. It’s a charming suburb about 30 minutes from the city center, famed for its natural beauty, quirky shops, great dining options, and breathtaking views.T
You can read about safety about safety in the Mother City in the article Is it Safe in Cape Town? A Fearless Traveler’s Fact Check.
What are the Safe Neighborhoods in Johannesburg?
When you’re picking a place to stay in Johannesburg, consider Rosebank, Melrose, Braamfontein or Sandton. These are among the city’s safest neighborhoods.
Areas to Avoid When Traveling Alone in South Africa
For independent travelers, it’s best to avoid these areas:
- The route leading to Numbi Gate at Kruger Park.
- Any regions experiencing unrest or protests (check with your accommodation for updates).
- Beaches during nighttime.
- Around Cape Town: Avoid Cape Flats, Kraaifontein, Langa, and Nyanga.
- Around Johannesburg: Avoid Hillbrow, Yeoville, Berea, Alexandra, and the Central Business District.
To get a glimpse of life in a township in South Africa, consider touring with a local guide. This approach not only offers a more authentic view of daily life but also helps support the local community financially.
No Power at your Hotel? It might be Loadshedding
First time in South Africa? Expect ‘loadshedding’ – scheduled power cuts due to energy shortages, lasting a few hours to half a day. Many hotels have backup generators, but double-check with your stay about power plans. Knowing the loadshedding schedule helps you plan. Tip: Bringing a headlight is handy, just in case.
Hiking Safety
South Africa is a hiker’s paradise with its breathtaking mountain trails and scenic landscapes. From the lush paths of the Garden Route, to the rugged terrains of the Drakensberg Mountains, or the amazing views at the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, there’s a trail for every kind of adventurer.
But let’s talk safety, because that’s key. Generally, hiking in South Africa is safe, especially if you stick to well-known and marked trails. However, like any outdoor activity, it does come with its set of precautions.
Some tips for safe hiking in South Africa:
- Buddy Up: Hike with a group familiar with the area, or hire a guide.
- Share Your Plans: Tell someone your expected return time so they can alert others if you’re late.
- Phone Essentials: Pack a fully charged phone and a power bank.
- Emergency Contacts: Save the emergency numbers from this article in your phone.
- Hydration is Key: Take double the water you think you’ll need – at least 1 liter for every 2 hours of hiking.
- Follow the Trails: Stick to marked paths to avoid getting lost.
- Dress in Layers: Weather can shift fast, particularly around Cape Town, so be prepared with layered clothing
Venomous Snakes, Scorpions and Spiders in South Africa
South Africa’s got its share of scary animals, like black mambas, scorpions, and button spiders. But in my 20 years of travels there, I’ve only bumped into these guys a handful of times. So, chances are, you won’t run into any trouble with them either.
Some tips to avoid nasty encounters:
- Rock Caution: Avoid lifting rocks or logs. You might find scorpions or snakes chilling underneath.
- Tall Grass Alert: Watch out in tall grass or piles of leaves. Some snakes are great at playing hide-and-seek.
- Scorpion Tip: If a scorpion has tiny pincers but a big tail, be extra careful. That’s the danger sign.
- Active Critters: Remember, snakes and scorpions love the South African summer (November to April) and are most active at night.
- Nighttime Necessity: Carry a torch at night so you don’t accidentally step on any unwelcome guests.
- Shoe Advice: Always wear closed shoes at night or while hiking.
- Snake Encounter: Spot a snake? Keep a 5-meter distance, unless you’re 100% sure it’s harmless.
- Bite or Sting Action: Got bitten or stung? Stay calm (or try to) and get medical help if you think it might have been venomous.
General Tips for a Safe Trip in South Africa
- Decoy Wallet: Carry a “fake” wallet with an expired card and small amount of cash as a distraction and keep your valuables elsewhere, like under your clothes.
- Hotel Safe is Your Friend: Leave any non-essential valuables in your hotel safe.
- Card Strategy: Take two different debit/credit cards and stash one in the hotel safe in case you lose your wallet.
- Jewelry: Less is More: Skip wearing any (expensive) jewelry.
- Keep Flashy Items Low-Key: Don’t show off expensive gear.
- Smart Valuables Storage: Keep valuables on you in a snatch-proof way.
- Don’t be a hero: If you are ever faced with a mugger, just hand over your stuff. No resistance or fighting back.
- Nighttime Travel: Avoid walking around at night; opt for an Uber instead.
- Dine Smart: When eating out, keep your phone and bag out of easy reach for snatchers.
- See the light: carry a torch at night so you don’t accidentally step on any snakes or scorpions. A torch also comes in handy when there is loadshedding.
Emergency Numbers
Save the following emergency numbers to your contacts:
Emergency number: 112
South African Police department: 10111
Fire Department +27 21 535 1100
Mountain Rescue Cape Town: +27 21 948 9900
South Africa's History and Its Current Socio-Economic Conditions
South Africa’s history is rich and complex. Indigenous groups like the San, Khoikhoi, and Bantu-speaking peoples first inhabited it.
The 17th century saw Dutch and British settlers arrive, leading to land conflicts and colonization. The discovery of diamonds and gold in the 19th century made South Africa an economic hub but also increased exploitation.
Apartheid started in 1948, enforcing racial segregation and impacting the socio-economic fabric, particularly for non-white people.
The mid-20th century anti-apartheid movement, led by figures like Nelson Mandela, culminated in its abolishment and the 1994 democratic elections. Yet, the legacy of these times is still felt in ongoing economic inequalities.
Impact of Socio-Economic Conditions on Safety
Present-day South Africa, a democratic and culturally diverse nation, still deals with the legacies of its past, including economic inequality and social divisions.
These historical factors have resulted in a contrast between affluent and impoverished areas, particularly visible in urban and rural settings.
Affluent neighborhoods generally enjoy better safety, resources, and policing, while impoverished townships face challenges like high unemployment and limited resources, contributing to higher crime rates.
Despite this, the majority of township residents are friendly law-abiding people; it’s pockets of crime related to socio-economic hardship that affect safety perceptions.
Conclusion: is South Africa Safe to Travel to as a Tourist?
So there you have it! For the most part, South Africa is a safe destination for tourists.
It’s true that you might need to be more vigilant and aware of your surroundings compared to other countries. However, with the safety tips mentioned in this article and using common sense, you’re all set for an incredible adventure in South Africa.
To help you plan your trip, explore ‘South Africa Through the Seasons: Monthly Travel Highlights.’ This comprehensive guide offers insights into the varied experiences each month brings, to help you find the best time for your South African adventure.
And if you still have time after your trip through South Africa, consider venturing into eSwatini and Lesotho, two intriguing countries within the South African borders. Or for a more lazy experience, unwind on the beach at Tofo Beach in Mozambique.
FAQs Tourist Safety in South Africa
Is South Africa safe to travel to for solo female travelers?
By staying aware and taking basic precautions, you can enjoy a worry-free adventure in this beautiful country.
Most incidents of crime against women tend to happen in economically disadvantaged and underserved communities, such as townships.
I’ve been traveling to South Africa for over 20 years as a solo female traveler, and keeping the tips above in mind, I’ve never encountered any problems.
For more safety tips for women traveling alone, read the solo female traveler’s safety guide.
Is South Africa safe to visit for Tourists?
While it’s true that South Africa has a notable crime rate, it’s important to understand that most of these incidents involve people who know each other. For travelers, this means that visiting South Africa is generally safe, provided you stick to some fundamental safety guidelines.
Just keep your wits about you and follow some the simple safety tips, and you’re all set for an amazing and safe trip in this awesome country.
Is it safe to do a self-drive safari in South-Africa?
Absolutely, embarking on a self-drive safari in renowned parks like Kruger Park or Addo Elephant Park is generally safe.
It’s important to remember that in these natural habitats, you are a guest in the animals’ home. Always give animals the right of way and maintain a respectful distance, especially with larger creatures like elephants.
For those keen on observing the majestic wildlife up close, Kruger Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. To get familiar with the varied and fascinating animals you might encounter and learn tips on how to spot them, check out our detailed article: “Animals of Kruger National Park: South Africa’s Pride“. This guide is a fantastic resource to enhance your safari experience with knowledge about the park’s wildlife.
Moreover, timing your safari can significantly impact your experience. To discover the best seasons for wildlife viewing in South Africa, don’t miss our guide, “Best Time for a Safari in South Africa: A Seasonal Guide“. This article will help you plan your trip to coincide with the most favorable conditions for spotting South Africa’s magnificent wildlife.
How safe is Johannesburg for tourists?
Johannesburg has areas that are perfectly safe for tourists, especially during the day and in tourist-centric parts. It’s advisable to stay in well-known tourist areas, use reputable transportation services, and avoid walking alone at night. Some of the neighborhoods that are known for safety are: Rosebank, Sandton, Melville, Parkhurst and Fourways.
What is the safest place in South Africa?
Areas like Cape Town, Kruger Park, the Garden Route, and certain parts of the Western Cape are often cited as some of the safest for tourists. However, safety can vary, so it’s best to research specific locations.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in South Africa?
Some areas in South Africa have found cholera in water resevoirs, which affects the tap water quality. So, unless your hotel uses safe borehole water, rather use bottled water. The tap water in Cape town is generally safe to drink.
What is the safest way to travel around South Africa?
Traveling by car (either rental or with a reliable driver), using reputable taxi services, and domestic flights are generally considered the safest ways to travel around South Africa.
What are South Africa travel requirements?
Travel requirements to South Africa typically include a valid passport, appropriate visa if required, and adherence to any health regulations like vaccinations. As of now, there are no mandatory vaccinations, except for travelers from yellow fever endemic countries. Yellow fever vaccination is also mandatory for those who have transited through a yellow fever risk country.
It’s best to consult the official South African government or embassy websites for the latest information.
What are the safety tips for tourists in South Africa?
- Stay informed about the areas you plan to visit.
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- Use reputable transportation services.
- Avoid walking in isolated areas, especially at night.
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations.
What documents do I need to travel to South Africa?
Required documents include a valid passport, possibly a visa depending on your nationality, and any health documentation like a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travelers from yellow fever endemic countries, as per current guidelines.
What are the travel guidelines for South Africa?
Travel guidelines include having the necessary travel documents, following health and safety protocols, and being aware of local laws and customs. Always check the latest guidelines from reliable sources before traveling.
Written by Stefanie
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