As a general rule, avoid Cape Town's township areas. These have high crime rates and aren't suitable for tourists. Some neighbourhoods to stay clear of include Cape Flats (southeast of the Central Business District), Langa and Nyanga (the oldest townships in the city) and Kraaifontein (a northern suburb).

While Cape Town is a stunning global destination, safety in 2026 requires avoiding specific areas, particularly after dark. Tourists are generally advised to avoid the Cape Flats and townships like Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, and Nyanga unless part of a reputable, pre-arranged guided tour. Even within the city center (the CBD), certain streets can become deserted and risky at night; it is recommended to stay in well-lit, high-traffic areas like the V&A Waterfront or the Sea Point Promenade. Hiking trails on Table Mountain and Lion's Head should only be tackled in groups, as solo hikers have occasionally been targeted by opportunistic criminals. A general "rule of thumb" for Cape Town is to use ride-sharing services like Uber for even short distances once the sun sets, as walking between bars or restaurants in the CBD or Bo-Kaap at night is discouraged by locals due to the risk of muggings.