PERSONAL SAFETY

 

Crime continues to be a contentious issue in South Africa but media reports often tend to be overblown. Most tourists who visit South Africa depart after their vacation without any unpleasant occurences. Certain areas witness violent crime as a daily occurrence but this tends to be in places like downtown Johannesburg and certain townships which are the poorer areas.

Tourist venues are pretty safe, especially in places like the Waterfront and central Cape Town which have privately funded police and 24 hour surveillance cameras. The South African authorities have made it a high priority to protect tourists and have deployed special 'tourism police' in the cities and large towns.

As far as your personal safety is concerned, don't be paranoid, let commonsense prevail and take care as one would in most cities around the world.
Avoid deserted places, wearing expensive jewellery, slinging camera and video equipment over your shoulder, carrying lots of cash and leaving valuables in vehicles.

Most safari lodges, hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs have safe facilities for valuables in rooms or with reception.

USEFUL LINKS:

U.K. Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice
U.S. Department of State Travel Advice