Is South Africa safe to travel to?

South Africa has a practical risk score of 70/100 (High). The government advisory level is "Elevated". Main risk drivers are petty crime and violent incidents.

What are the main travel risks in South Africa?

The primary risk factors for travelers in South Africa are: petty crime, violent incidents, civil unrest. Petty crime is rated 100/100 and violent incidents 100/100.

What is the current travel advisory for South Africa?

The U.S. Department of State advisory for South Africa is "Elevated" (score: 45/100). Level 2: Exercise increased caution

What safety tips should I know before visiting South Africa?

Use app-based rides after dark and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas. Monitor local developments and avoid demonstrations or fast-changing border areas.

South Africa

Africa

Higher risk than 93% of countries. Main concerns: petty crime and violent incidents.

Government Advisory

Elevated

Level 2: Exercise increased caution

Traveler Practical Risk

High

Confidence: high. Main drivers: petty crime, violent incidents, civil unrest.

Risk Profile

Score breakdown across 7 risk dimensions

🔓Petty Crime

Africa avg: 57100

⚠️Violent Incident

Africa avg: 50100

📢Civil Unrest

Africa avg: 7275

🎭Scams

Africa avg: 6658

🚌Transport

Africa avg: 6655

🌊Natural Disaster

Africa avg: 2424

🏥Health

Africa avg: 4318

Practical advice

✓Use app-based rides after dark and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas.
✓Monitor local developments and avoid demonstrations or fast-changing border areas.

Data Sources & Updates · Last updated 5/27/2025

Government Advisory: U.S. Department of State(fetched 3/22/2026)

Indicators: World Bank Governance & Stability Indicators (2024)

Recent update: Updated 2025-05-27 from refreshed advisory and traveler risk indicators.

Frequently Asked Questions — South Africa

Is South Africa safe to travel to?: South Africa has a practical risk score of 70/100 (High). The government advisory level is "Elevated". Main risk drivers are petty crime and violent incidents.
What are the main travel risks in South Africa?: The primary risk factors for travelers in South Africa are: petty crime, violent incidents, civil unrest. Petty crime is rated 100/100 and violent incidents 100/100.
What is the current travel advisory for South Africa?: The U.S. Department of State advisory for South Africa is "Elevated" (score: 45/100). Level 2: Exercise increased caution
What safety tips should I know before visiting South Africa?: Use app-based rides after dark and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas. Monitor local developments and avoid demonstrations or fast-changing border areas.

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