Is Johannesburg safe for white tourists?

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.



Johannesburg is a city of "extremes" where safety is defined more by location and behavior than by race. While the city has high rates of crime, including "smash-and-grabs" and muggings, thousands of tourists of all backgrounds visit safely every year by adhering to strict local advice. For white tourists (and all visitors), the key is to stay in well-secured northern suburbs like Sandton, Rosebank, and Melrose Arch, which are highly monitored and pedestrian-friendly. Visiting the "CBD" (Central Business District) or townships like Soweto should only be done with a reputable local guide. It is vital to use private transport like Uber or Gautrain rather than walking at night or using informal "minibus taxis." You should avoid displaying "signs of wealth" like expensive jewelry or cameras in public spaces. In 2026, the perception of safety in Jo'burg has improved in certain "precincts" due to private security initiatives, but "situational awareness" remains mandatory. Essentially, if you treat the city with respect, follow the "rules of the road" regarding where to go and when, the risk is manageable, but it is not a city where you can wander aimlessly as you might in London or Tokyo.

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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, 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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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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Yes, South Africa is safe for female travellers. Many female visitors to South Africa leave here having experienced no problems at all. As with all travellers to South Africa, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables out of sight.

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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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Moreover, staying in reputable accommodations and following the advice of local contacts and fellow travelers can seriously enhance your security. Take all the normal precautions you would in any other country. South Africa is currently ranked #86 safest country for solo female travellers.

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Getting around The easiest way to get from OR Tambo International to the major nodes of Johannesburg is via the new rapid rail system, the Gautrain, which links to Rhodesfield, Modderfontein, Sandton, Rosebank and Park Station (CBD) in Johannesburg as well as Midrand, Pretoria, Centurion and Hatfield to the north.

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