South Africa is a beautiful country with so much to offer travelers. From its breathtaking natural landscapes to its rich culture, there’s something for everyone to experience. However, before you travel, it’s important to be well-prepared. South Africa has a high crime rate, so knowing how to protect yourself is essential.
In this article, we share valuable tips for traveling safely in South Africa. We’ll discuss the most dangerous areas, what to do if you get robbed, and how to prevent crime. You’ll also find advice on choosing a safe group tour or traveling safely as a solo traveler.
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The Most Dangerous Areas in South Africa
South Africa ranks 136th out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index 2023. This means that the country experiences relatively high crime levels. The main types of crime in South Africa are violent crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, and theft.
The most dangerous places in South Africa are the major cities, such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. These cities experience high crime rates, especially in poorer neighborhoods. The countryside can also be unsafe, particularly at night.
In general, I’ve rarely heard tourists speak enthusiastically about Johannesburg. We didn’t visit the city ourselves. Even our taxi driver in Cape Town mentioned the poor safety there — that says a lot!
What to Do If You Get Robbed
If you get robbed in South Africa, it’s important to stay calm and not resist. Give the robbers what they want and don’t try to stop them. Once they’re gone, call the police or contact your embassy immediately.
How to Prevent Crime
There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of crime in South Africa:
- Don’t walk alone, especially at night.
- Be cautious in big cities and poorer neighborhoods.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or clothing.
- Never leave your valuables unattended.
- Always stay aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid withdrawing cash in busy areas. Our tour guide mentioned that many robberies happen there!
Smart Tips to Keep Your Belongings Safe
I’ve personally applied most of these tips, and that’s why I’m happy to share them with you!
- Opt for a group tour if you’re unsure. They often know what’s safe to do and where you should avoid going.
- Buy a hidden pouch to wear under your clothes and store your passport or phone there.
- Bring an old phone to keep in your pocket. If you’re robbed, you can hand over that one.
- Don’t both carry your phones if you’re traveling with a companion — that way, you minimize your risks.
- Seriously, leave those jewels and expensive clothes at home.
Tips for Choosing a Safe Group Tour
When booking a group tour to South Africa, it’s important to choose a reliable tour operator. Look for one with experience in South African travel and positive reviews. Make sure the route is safe and the accommodations are well-secured. A good example of a trusted operator is Djoser.
Tips for Safe Solo Travel
If you’re traveling to South Africa alone, extra caution is key. Share your itinerary with someone at home and keep them updated on your location. Be careful when meeting strangers and avoid remote areas by yourself. Use official parking areas and ask hotel staff for local advice — locals usually know best what to do and what areas to avoid.
Create a Backup Plan for Your Mobile Phone
What would you do if you lost your phone right now? How would you block your credit card? How could you log in to important apps like your banking app? Make sure you have a solid backup plan.
- Use a password manager. Not only safer for your passwords, but it also keeps all your credentials in one place.
- Store your data in the cloud. It would be a shame to lose your vacation photos, right?
- Enable partner login access. On Apple devices, for example, you can allow your partner to log in to your account. If one of you loses your phone, you can still access your Apple account quickly.
- Write things down on paper. For instance, note how to block your phone number or how to access your password manager.
South Africa is a stunning country, but it’s crucial to prepare well before you go. By following the tips in this article, you can minimize the risk of crime and enjoy a safe, unforgettable trip.
And most of all, don’t forget to enjoy yourself. There’s so much beauty to discover. Don’t let fear hold you back — thousands of tourists visit every year without issues!
