Cape Town is a generally safe place for a holiday or a workation. However, like several cities in South Africa, it has its fair share of crime, especially gang-related activity. Cape Town is also home to the South African parliament, so political demonstrations and rallies are also common.

In 2026, Cape Town remains a top-tier destination that is generally safe for tourists who practice "street-smart" safety. While South Africa as a whole grapples with high crime rates, tourist-heavy zones like the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, and the City Bowl are heavily policed and monitored by private security. Most crime involves "opportunity theft"—such as pickpocketing or smashing car windows for bags—rather than targeted violence against visitors. To stay safe, locals recommend avoiding walking alone in the city center after dark, keeping valuables out of sight, and using verified e-hailing services like Uber rather than public transport. Hiking Table Mountain or Lion’s Head is best done in groups during daylight hours. By sticking to recommended tourist regions and staying aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy Cape Town's world-class dining, wineries, and natural beauty with minimal risk.