Tips for Safety in South Africa
Crime
South Africa faces a significant challenge with a high level of crime, and it is the primary security threat to travellers. Violent crimes, including rape and murder, are frequent and have involved foreigners. Muggings, armed assaults, and theft are common, often occurring in tourist-popular areas. Carjackings, robbery, and assault are also prevalent.- Compliance is Key: In the event of a personal assault, immediately comply, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from resisting or antagonizing assailants.
- Minimize Risk After Dark: Crime increases significantly after dark, especially in major city centres and townships. Avoid specific areas during nighttime, including Berea, Hillbrow, Yeoville in Johannesburg, Sunnyside in Pretoria, the Durban beachfront, Victoria Wharf in Cape Town, and the route from downtown hotels to the waterfront.
- Pickpocketing Risk: There is a high risk of pickpocketing. Avoid carrying your wallet in the back pocket and refrain from displaying signs of affluence or carrying valuables openly.
- Beware at Restaurants and Bars: Keep your bag on your lap, secure all bag fasteners, and be cautious of your surroundings. Criminals target distracted individuals.
- Vehicle Safety: Park in well-lit areas, avoid picking up strangers, and keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed.
- Secure Accommodations: Theft from hotel rooms is common. Keep windows and doors locked at all times, even when present. Check security levels before booking and avoid leaving luggage and valuables unattended.
- Verification: If someone claims to be staff, verify with reception before opening the door.
- Vehicle Hijacking and Robbery: In South Africa, vehicle hijacking and robbery are common, particularly after dark and near places like traffic lights and petrol stations. Thieves may break car windows at junctions. Exercise caution at traffic lights, stop signs, yield signs, and highway off-ramps.
- Criminal Tactics: Criminals may use tactics like throwing objects to force vehicles to stop. In such cases, drive to a secure place before stopping. If someone pretending to be the police with 'blue lights' raises suspicion, keep driving to a police station or a safe spot before stopping.
Terrorism
While South Africa has not experienced significant terrorist threats, travellers should stay informed about global events and be aware of their surroundings.
- The most notable terrorism threat is mainly from people inspired by groups like Daesh.
- The big worry is 'lone actor' attacks that can happen in different places, including those popular with foreigners.
- Targets could be government buildings, places of worship, and busy public areas like airports.
- Keep an eye on the news for possible threats, and follow instructions from local authorities.
- If there's a terrorist attack, leave the area quickly if it's safe and don't go back.
Political Situation
South Africa's political landscape has undergone significant changes, and while the country is generally stable, it's wise to stay updated on current events and exercise caution during political demonstrations.
- Avoiding Risky Areas: Stay away from places with ongoing protests, especially in city centres and townships. Don't cross protester roadblocks to prevent violent reactions.
- Staying Informed: Stay updated on local media and authorities, including information on curfews and follow local authorities' instructions.
- Planning Safe Routes: Check for disruptions on your planned route before travelling. Stick to major routes, as GPS services may guide you into less safe areas.
- Caution during Protests: Avoid crossing protester roadblocks and plan for potential disruptions to phone and internet services. Confirm travel arrangements with your airline or tour operator before your journey.
- Photography: Avoid taking photos or videos during demonstrations to prevent potential harm or property damage.
Fraud and Scams
Be careful in South Africa due to the common risk of scams, including job offers, visa assistance, and online relationships.
- Card Skimming and Confidence Scams: Watch out for scams involving card skimming and fake confidence schemes. Don't meet or send money to people you don't know, especially in uncertain situations.
- ATM Safety: Since crime around ATMs is common, take precautions like hiding your PIN, being cautious of strangers offering help, and changing large sums of money in secure places.
- Visa Agent Caution: Be careful when using visa agents and always follow the correct visa application process to avoid falling for fraud.
- Embassy Details Scams: Verify embassy details to avoid falling victim to scams that use this information.
- Impersonation of Officials: If someone claims to be an official and you're unsure, ask to see their ID. Move to a safe place and verify police officers using their Appointment Certificate.
- Reporting Concerns: If you have concerns about fraud, contact the police at 10111 or emergency services at 112.
- Personal Information Protection: Don't give out personal or financial information to anyone due to the frequent attempts at fraud.
Airport Safety
Crime can happen at airports, with criminals robbing people at ATMs, currency exchange places, and tourist accommodations. Some people have been followed from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and robbed, sometimes at gunpoint.
To stay safe:
- Be cautious in and around the airport, especially in public areas.
- Use main roads when driving to and from airports.
- Move quickly through public areas and avoid isolated spots.
- It's a good idea to have your hotel or tour operator meet you upon arrival.
- If you're connecting to another flight, get there quickly.
- If allowed, consider wrapping your luggage.
- Keep valuables in your carry-on bag.
- If you're travelling to or from Cape Town International Airport, stick to the M3 and N2 routes and avoid the R300 and R310 (Baden Powell) between Muizenberg and the N2 intersection.
Border Area Safety
Near the Lembombo border at Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, there are reports of armed robberies and kidnappings, especially after dark. To be safer, think about using a different crossing or approaching the border during daylight.
- Check your route for potential problems before starting your journey.
- Use GPS carefully to avoid going into risky areas.
- Stick to the main roads and park where it's well-lit.
- Be aware of your surroundings and try not to stay still in your car for too long.
- Lock your car when you leave it and keep windows closed, especially at junctions.
- Hide valuables, preferably in your car's trunk.
- If renting a car, ask for one with 'smash and grab' film on the windows.
- Make sure you can see the road and tires of the car in front of you to have space to escape if needed.
Power Cuts in South Africa
South Africa often has power shortages, leading to scheduled outages called 'load shedding.' This affects daily life, including accommodation, shops, banks, and security systems. Areas with power cuts may face a higher risk of crime due to reduced security and lighting. To get ready, check with your accommodation about their plans, stay updated on scheduled outages, and follow local authorities' advice.
In case of prolonged power cuts, be ready by:
- Keeping emergency contacts handy.
- Having a plan for informing friends and family.
- Carrying a power bank and charging cables.
- Having portable lighting available.
- Ensuring an adequate supply of medicine.
- Identifying nearby safe locations with power access.
Laws and Cultural Differences
- Personal ID: Carry a photocopy of your passport and permits, keeping the original securely stored in a safe place, only carrying it when needed for official identification.
- Legal and Illegal Drugs: Cannabis use, buying, and selling in public are prohibited, but private consumption is allowed. CBD oils are legally permitted, while all other drug activities are strictly illegal.
- LGBT Travellers: Homosexuality is legal, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is not allowed.
- Wildlife and Souvenirs: Engaging in the illegal buying, selling, or capturing of protected wild animals is prohibited, as is trading ivory or rhino horn without permits, both being against the law.
- Drugs and Firearms: Drug-related activities, including use, import, or export, carry strict penalties. Permits from the South African Police Service are necessary for importing or possessing firearms.
- Driving: The traffic system operates on the left-hand side of the road. While a valid Canadian provincial driver’s license is accepted, obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, particularly for insurance purposes. Importantly, carrying gasoline in portable containers is deemed illegal.
- Money: Foreigners can enter South Africa with up to ZAR100,000 or US$10,000 or equivalent in other currencies without filling out customs forms, but random checks may occur.
Outdoor Activities and Adventure Tourism
South Africa is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like safari tours and outdoor adventures.
Wildlife Safety in South Africa
- Respect local wildlife laws and maintain a safe distance when observing animals.
- Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators for wildlife excursions.
- Follow park rules and heed the advice of wardens to ensure a secure wildlife experience.
Hiking Safety in South Africa
- When hiking, save emergency numbers and avoid solo hikes; go in groups of 4 or more.
- Stick to busy, marked trails, especially on popular days like weekends.
- Plan your route, carry essential supplies, and inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
- Dress appropriately and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.
- Avoid isolated areas, especially deserted beaches or remote locations, particularly after dark.
Beach Safety in South Africa
- Be aware of varying beach conditions and local safety measures.
- Request a life jacket if participating in water sports.
- Consult local people for information on beaches without warning signs or equipment.
- On tourist beaches, only swim between red and yellow flags, and follow lifeguard instructions.
- Learn about rip currents through resources like the National Sea Rescue Institute’s website.
- In case of emergencies, utilize the emergency services number 112 or contact the NSRI emergency line at +27 87 094 9774.
Health Risks
South Africa presents several health risks that travellers should be aware of:
- Malaria: Malaria is prevalent in certain regions, including Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and northern KwaZulu-Natal. Travelers are advised to take malaria prophylaxis, use mosquito repellent, sleep under mosquito nets, and wear protective clothing.
- HIV/AIDS: The country has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. Travelers should practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles or other sharp objects.
- Waterborne Diseases: Some areas may pose a risk of waterborne diseases like cholera. Travellers are encouraged to drink bottled or boiled water and refrain from consuming raw or undercooked seafood.
- Vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date and consider additional vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and meningitis.
- Food and Water Safety: To prevent foodborne illnesses, travellers should consume thoroughly cooked food, exercise caution with street food in areas with questionable hygiene, and drink bottled or treated water while avoiding ice in drinks.
