Are tourists safe in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg is a really fun city to visit, with plenty to entertain tourists. But it does have a particularly high crime rate. There are areas to avoid, like everywhere, and it's best to ask a local guide or hotel staff about specifics and not to go a-wandering.



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Immerse yourself in Joburg's vibrant nightlife. Yes, Johannesburg is relatively safe for tourists. Like any other major city, Joburg has its dangerous areas. But overall, the metropolitan is safe for travellers, as long as you keep your wits about you.

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Johannesburg is a really fun city to visit, with plenty to entertain tourists, but it does have a particularly high crime rate. There are areas to avoid and it's best to ask a local guide or hotel staff about specifics and not to wander.

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Try not to walk at night, but if you must, walk in a group. If you decide to try a bit of al fresco dining (day or night), ensure your valuables are stowed safely under the table or between your feet. Don't hang a bag on the back of your chair, as this is the best way to get pickpocketed.

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Jo'burg's public transit and shuttles – especially those that carry tourists, excluding sightseeing tour buses – are notoriously prone to robberies, while taxis and minibus taxis are known for their confusing hand signals and unlicensed, irresponsible drivers.

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There are safe and unsafe places in the CBD. Johannesburg is a large city. There are many whites people living in Selby and surrounding areas and they appear to be quite safe. And like all cities in the world, you have drunks, drug pushers and prostitutes and gangs loitering in the CBD areas at night.

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Although Cape Town was largely regarded as safe, one can never be entirely sure in South Africa. (It is statistically one of the most violently criminal countries in the world with a homicide rate of 33.5 per 100,000 population compared with, say, the UK's 1.1).

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Johannesburg, requires extra vigilance for solo female travelers. Although many visitors have enjoyable, incident-free stays, crime is a notable concern, particularly in certain districts after dark. It's vital to be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and use reputable means of transportation.

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