South Africa — Living: Safety

Key facts

• Terrorism: There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.
• Political situation: There are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa which can turn violent at short notice.
• Crime: Violent crime can take place anywhere, including in tourist destinations and transport hubs.
• Transport risks: If you are planning to drive in South Africa, see information on driving abroad .
• Outdoor activities and adventure tourism: Do not take unnecessary risks when participating in outdoor activities and adventure tourism.
• Extreme weather and natural disasters: Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .
• Laws and cultural differences: Always carry a copy of your passport photo page and the page with your visitors permit or residence permit for South Africa.

Steps

1. Research neighborhoods — Research the neighborhoods you're considering moving to and talk to locals, expats, or real estate agents to get a sense of the area's safety.
2. Take precautions — Consider hiring a reputable security company, installing security systems, and taking other measures to secure your property and personal safety.

Costs

• Security systems: varies
• Hiring a security company: varies

Timelines

• Processing time for security clearance: varies

Required documents

• Police clearance certificate
• Proof of address

Common mistakes

• Underestimating the risk of crime in urban areas
• Not doing enough research on the neighborhood before moving

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . Terrorism in South Africa: Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa. The main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh, and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could target public spaces and places visited by foreigners, such as: • tourist sites • shopping centres • high profile events • crowded places Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Israel and Palestine conflict: The current conflict in Israel and Palestine has led to heightened tensions around the world. Terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaida and Daesh, have called on their supporters to carry out terrorist attacks in response to the conflict. The conflict could also motivate individuals to carry out attacks. Terrorist attacks could target Jewish or Muslim communities, or the interests of Israel and its allies. Attacks could also be indiscriminate and happen without warning.

Political situation

There are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa which can turn violent at short notice. Violence could affect participants and bystanders anywhere in the country. There has been an increase in xenophobic and anti-immigration marches and violence, primarily (but not exclusively) targeting African immigrants and those perceived to be African immigrants. Exercise caution, avoid areas where protests, demonstrations or marches are taking place, especially in city centres and townships. Do not cross protester roadblocks. This could provoke a violent reaction. If you encounter a protest unexpectedly, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Follow the instructions of local authorities and security personnel. Monitor local and social media for updates, including local radio. Where possible stay on main roads. Be aware that GPS navigation may direct you through less secure areas.

Crime

There is a high crime rate in South Africa, with incidents including: • violent muggings • snatching jewellery and valuables • carjacking • ‘smash and grab’ attacks on vehicles • house robbery • rape and sexual assault • murder Crime locations : Violent crime can take place anywhere, including in tourist destinations and transport hubs. Most violent crimes occur in townships, informal settlements, and other high-density areas, as well as in some city centres and isolated areas. The threat is higher when it is dark. There have been violent incidents involving tourists at popular tourist locations. There are usually security personnel in the main tourist areas who can assist tourists. However, policing and security is limited, so always be cautious. Avoid isolated beaches, picnic spots and local transport hubs. Do not walk alone in remote areas or on beaches when deserted, especially when it is dark. Protecting yourself and your belongings : To protect your personal safety: • do not display valuables or leave them in your car • take safe and reliable transport – see Public transport • stay alert and be wary of people who approach you • do not walk around after dark • travel with friends if possible and make sure someone knows your plans • only go to a township with a responsible and reliable tour guide • consider removing expensive-looking jewellery • be aware that resisting a robbery can lead to a violent response, including use of weapons, that can result in physical injury Airport crime: Crime in and around airports includes robbery and theft of baggage and valuables. Criminals have followed people from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to their destinations and then robbed them, often at gunpoint. You should: • be careful in and around the airport • use main roads to and from airports • go through public areas quickly • avoid isolated areas • arrange for your hotel or tour operator to meet you if possible • go to your connecting flight quickly if in transit • consider vacuum-wrapping luggage • keep valuables in your carry-on luggage • avoid dropping off your rental car at night Cape Town airport road attacks : There has been an increase in violent crime and targeted attacks to and from Cape Town airport, including incidents involving visitors driving hired cars. See ‘vehicle crime’. You should: • stay on the M3 and N2 (rather than the R300) … (continues on the FCDO page)

Transport risks

Road travel: If you are planning to drive in South Africa, see information on driving abroad . You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in South Africa for up 12 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, get the 1968 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) before you travel, or update to a photocard licence . If you become a permanent resident, exchange your UK licence for a South African licence within 12 months of getting your residency. See living in South Africa . Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age. See Crime for advice on travel to and from the airport, vehicle crime and safety at border crossings. Air Travel: There have been travel delays and disruptions at airports due to power outages, refuelling disruptions and immigration queues. Allow for adequate time when travelling. Check the  Airports Company South Africa (ACSA)  social media pages for the latest updates or download the app. E-hailing and taxis: Scammers target people using e-hailing taxi apps in major cities. Make sure you: • use an internationally recognised service • book through the e-hailing app • identify a place of safety until the vehicle arrives; do not wait in the street • check the vehicle registration and ID before entering • do not display your phone or valuables • ask the driver to close rear windows and lock doors if you cannot do so yourself • check the e-hailing app for extra security features, and consider using them Be wary of unregulated drivers posing as Uber or other taxi app drivers, especially at airports. If you book a taxi, wait in a designated taxi pick-up area, if there is one. Tensions between e-hailing app and metered taxi drivers have led to armed violence and fatalities, particularly around Gautrain stations and at airports. Strikes and protests by taxi app drivers take place, sometimes with attacks against drivers not seen to be participating. Passengers have also faced harassment or violence. E-hailing apps  generally warn about high-risk areas, but be cautious using these services. During strikes use alternative reliable private transportation. Plan your journey so that you can avoid busy areas such as taxi ranks and transport hubs. … (continues on the FCDO page)

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Hiking and walking : Do not take unnecessary risks when participating in outdoor activities and adventure tourism. Health and safety standards vary globally and may not be the same as in the UK. Check with the local tourism office for safe and licenced operators and consider hiring a registered guide. Where possible, insist on a receiving a safety briefing. Table Mountain National Park: Table Mountain trails are strenuous, and mountain rescuers get regular calls to help hikers. Know your limits and research a route that matches  your fitness level. Plan your timing carefully; start early to avoid peak summer heat and finish before dark. Check  SANPARKS  for the latest guidance including hazards such as wildfires. Always check the availability of the cable car if you are planning to use it.  For emergencies, contact Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) on +27 21 937 0300. See Crime for information on violent attacks in Table Mountain National Park. Kruger National Park: After a violent attack killed a tourist in the Kruger National Park, SANParks advise against using the Numbi gate. There have been protests and violent incidents on the R538 road leading to the gate. In May 2026, 2 local tourists were killed in a rare violent incident within the park and the suspects were arrested. You can fly directly to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Many people also choose to take a private tour or drive overland themselves. If you stay outside the park, contact your lodge in advance to find out if any disruptions will affect your trip. See  SANParks news . Addo Elephant Park: South African National Parks advise visitors travelling from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) to Addo Elephant Park to use the N2 via Colchester, rather than the R335 via Motherwell due to crime, including vehicle high jackings. Recommended routes can be found on the South African National Parks Website . Swimming safety: Beach conditions and local safety measures vary. Every year, many people drown due to strong sea currents. Ask for a life jacket if you participate in water sports. On beaches with no equipment or warning signs, speak to local people who know the conditions. If in doubt, do not enter the water. On busier tourist beaches: • only swim between the red and yellow flags • read the warning signs • follow instructions from lifeguards The South African National Sea Rescue Institute ( NSRI ) has information about rip currents . In an emergency, call: … (continues on the FCDO page)

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards . Flooding: Heavy rainfall often causes widespread flooding. There is a year-round risk of flooding across South Africa. Always check weather reports and news for hazards before you start your journey. For alerts and forecasts, see the  South African Weather Service . Wildfires: Wildfires can happen in rural and urban areas during hot and dry weather including Cape Town and in the Table Mountain National Park. Follow evacuation orders if requested. If you see a wildfire, move to a safe place away from vegetation and smoke. If you are inside a building or a car and judge it is safe to stay there, close all vents and windows. Power cuts: In South Africa there have been local and nationwide power cuts caused by shortages and extreme weather. Whilst there has been a significant reduction in planned power cuts (‘loadshedding’), they can still happen and affect: • private accommodation, including hotels and airbnbs • availability of mobile phone networks and wifi • shops • banks and ATMs • public lighting • traffic lights • security systems such as alarms and electric fencing • petrol stations • water There may be higher risk of crime where security systems or public lighting do not work. You should: • ask your accommodation provider how they manage planned power cuts • check for planned cuts on the Eskom website  or ‘loadshedding’ apps • follow the advice of local authorities if there are water restrictions, including bans on drinking tap water Preparing for power cuts: To prepare for long power cuts: • write down emergency contact numbers • plan how you’ll let relatives and friends know where you are • carry a power bank with extra charging cables • carry a torch or other portable lighting • ensure you have enough medicine and first aid supplies • find nearby safe places that may have back-up power such as hotels, hospitals and police stations, in case you need help • read our advice If you are affected by a crisis abroad Water shortages : Across parts of South Africa, there have been water shortages. Follow the advice of local authorities if there are water restrictions in place.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID: Always carry a copy of your passport photo page and the page with your visitors permit or residence permit for South Africa. South African officials may ask for ID and proof of residence at any time. Keep your passport in a hotel safe or another secure location. Do not carry it with you unless you need it for official identification. Illegal drugs and cannabis laws : Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. Whilst the personal consumption of cannabis is considered legal, all other drug possession, use or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport is illegal. British nationals have been arrested for attempting to carry illegal drugs, including cocaine, cannabis and khat, to the UK. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport. Airports in South Africa have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers. LGBT+ travellers: Same-sex sexual activity is legal. It is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. See our  advice for LGBT+ travellers . Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs: It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade any of its parts without a permit. Trading ivory or rhino horn is banned. Anyone caught buying or trafficking banned goods will be prosecuted.