Keeping yourself Safe in Cape Town, South Africa

Before coming to Cape Town, South Africa to pursue my Master’s Degree, I had a lot of hesitations. My biggest concern was obviously the issue of safety, as I heard and read that South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world.

The mixed reviews about this issue on numerous blogs I read online made me more confused. There were many ideas contradicting each other.

So, is Cape Town safe? Unfortunately, there is no simple yes and no to this question. To be honest, every individual will experience Cape Town differently.

However, I can give some friendly tips as to what you can do to make your experience to travel or live in Cape Town like me as hassle-free as possible.

On The Street

My first days in Cape Town were full of paranoia while walking on the street and looking at strangers as potential criminals. As time passed by, it made me more comfortable to see people acting normal. As cliché as it may sound, you need a few tips to be street-smart to stay safe in Cape Town.

It is perfectly safe to walk on the streets during the day, especially during the rush hour. However, there might be a possibility a crime directed towards your valuables if you are negligent. I always try to avoid putting my wallet and phone in my jean pockets, because they attract a lot of attention, making me vulnerable to pick-pocketing.

By the same logic, I try not to text or call people while walking on the street.

Another issue is the homeless people, especially in the touristy areas such as Long Street. They won’t necessarily ask for money, but they will beg you to buy them food as they are starving.

Although they won’t try to harm you in any way, they can be quite persistent and make you feel uncomfortable. Don’t be aggressive and insulting with them, instead say no gently, but consistently and walk away.

Last but not least don’t walk on the streets on your own at night as you will be exposed to theft and attract unwanted attention.

On The Road

While public transportation is perfectly safe during rush hour, one has to be careful especially while using the trains. Trains have become the most common venue for robbery in recent times.

You should always make sure to sit in the crowded wagons since you will be surrounded by people instead of being helpless in the empty wagons of the trains.

If you are driving, make sure not to stop on the highway for any reason especially at night. Some townships that are far away from the centre are still prominent in gang-related crime, so try not to go to these areas without a local person who knows the place well.

You must also watch out for car-jacking and avoid leaving any valuables in the car at all times.

It is also best to live in an apartment/hotel with its own personal parking spot.

At Home

If you are living on the ground floor, never leave any valuables close to the windows in a visible spot. Anything unattended has a 10 times higher chance of getting stolen.

Trust me. I am speaking from experience.

Hiking

There have been recent reports of robbery incidents on Table Mountain, especially during the peak season. This type of crime usually targets solo hikers or groups of very few people.

So, you will be much better off with a crowded hiking group of at least five people and always hike on the designated trails.

• Related: South Africa – 5 Iconic Hikes on Table Mountain for Nature Lovers
• From the Author: South Korea – Hiking in Seoraksan National Park

Overall, while Cape Town is definitely not the safest city in the world, it’s not so dangerous that you would be trapped in your apartment the whole time.

Follow my guidelines above and I guess you will be fine.

Enjoy Cape Town as I do! And Stay Safe Always!