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What To Do To Keep Safe In South Africa When Traveling
I live in South Africa so I am aware of the crime here, it is not great, and it's a big talking point with our friends, but we would not still be living here if we never felt safe and could not go about our daily lives without fear. However your safety when visiting South Africa is important so keep reading.
Most of what I have mentioned below is just common sense of what you should or shouldn't be doing as a traveler to almost any country . I saw a backpacker in New York have her backpack pickpocketed and I've also been accosted by the gypsies in Paris, so the best thing I think is plan your stay - the distances to travel, where you are going out and don't be careless, be vigilant and enjoy your trip in safer areas.
Valuables
Do not leave valuables unattended in cars or hotels, use a safe in the hotel to keep your belongings. Do not leave your handbag / bag under your chair or table, keep it on your lap in restaurants and busy areas. Do not display money and if carrying valuables such as laptops or cameras be vigilant.
I've just seen these very clever travel scarves which you can store your valuables when in busy areas so as not to draw attention to yourself.
Never get distracted or accept help at an ATM, only withdraw cash at very well lit ATM's or in secure banking halls. Pay attention when your cards are being handled by others.
Transport
It is probably better to rent a car then rely on other forms of transport unless you are on a tour group.
Other drivers might not adhere to the road laws so be prepared for unexpected stops, overtaking and even stopping at random times. Just be aware.
Avoid using public transportation, minibuses and unlicensed taxis Avoid bus and train stations - the Gautrain, Blue Train and Rovos Rail are safe for tourists though.
Avoid townships and informal settlements unless on an organized tour. Please check that the route mentioned as the quickest route on google maps does not take you through a township.
Choose transport carefully, do not hail a taxi on the street - ask your hotel to organize one for you.
Park in well lit areas, do not stop to talk to strangers, ensure all door and windows are closed and locked.
Do not pick up hitchhikers. Don't stop at deserted roadside areas on national roads.
Watch out for pedestrians and livestock on the roads especially at night. There can be cows, sheep, goats or wildlife so slow down when you notice them as they will be unpredictable.
If a traffic light is not working it is treated as a four way stop. Avoid townships and informal settlements.
As a pedestrian be wary of approaching vehicles as they may fail to stop for you, even on crosswalks.
Personal Safety
Stay in tourist areas, avoid isolated picnic areas and beaches.
Lock your doors. Be aware of your surroundings and do not walk alone, especially at night. Do not go hiking alone.
Maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife - be aware that monkeys and baboons may come after your food.
Do not leave your food or drink unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, drinks, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances - it may be drugged.
Only swim in designated areas with shark nets and lifesavers on beaches.
Stay Safe
South Africa is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. We have so much to offer from stunning Cape Town - winner of The Telegraph Travel Readers voted as the Best City On Earth, to the barren Karoo and the abundant wildlife of the Kruger area. It is so worth visiting and with the exchange rate at about R19:$1 you can have an amazing holiday at a reasonable price.
If you are worried about the crime, just plan well and you will be completely safe from beginning to end.
We have a new peeve in South Africa - load shedding! (Our electricity is switched off for periods of up to 2 hours at a time). Just be aware that it might be load shedding when in a grocery store and the lights go out - the generator will kick in shortly, or if all the traffic lights are out in the town - treat all of them as four-way-stop's.
Enjoy your stay - your safety when visiting South Africa is very important but visiting South Africa really is worth it.