Is South Africa Safe for Women? Crime Rate in South Africa
Safety rating
Women living in South Africa consider the safety level to be moderate, with an overall safety rating of 2.8 out of 5.
Crime rating
Women living in South Africa consider the crime rate to be moderate, with an overall crime rating of 3.4 out of 5.
Violence rating
On average 7% percentage of women in South Africa have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner at some time in their life, according to OECD Data.
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Crime & Safety Statistics
Based on 54 experiences
Safety rating: | 2.8/5 | Moderate |
Safety walking alone after dark: | 1.5/5 | Very Unsafe |
Safety using public transport: | 2.3/5 | Unsafe |
Crime rate: | 3.4/5 | Moderate |
Worries of being sexually harassed: | 2.8/5 | Moderate |
Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped: | 3/5 | Moderate |
Worries of being physically attacked: | 2.7/5 | Moderate |
Worries of home broken and things stolen: | 2.7/5 | Moderate |
Worries of being mugged or robbed: | 3.2/5 | Moderate |
Worries of being kidnapped or murdered: | 2.6/5 | Moderate |
How safe is South Africa?
Maia
Cape Town
Listen is all realness Cape town is so beautiful here but the crime here is like 50/50 in some places its not so bad but please be aware of your surroundings and what your around and who your around, i stay in plattekloof and most people consider it safe but then again ive gotten mugged at the duck pond before, just stay aware ladies always carry something to protect yourselfs💗🤞🏻
Posted: May 7, 2025Johannesburg
Johannesburg is a complex city. You have to know where and where not to go and hot to behave in this city in order not to be a victim of crime. I have lived here my whole life so I know how to navigate the city and ensure that my friends visiting from overseas are safe.
Posted: May 5, 2025Cape Town
Capetown is safe in all tourist destinations, although there are some locations you shouldn't go by yourself but in all my stay ofnore than 8 year living in the southern suburbs of Capetown and exploring the city I've never encountered any robbery of some sort or felt not safe
Posted: May 1, 2025South Africa
South Africa is safe if you know where to go and have someone to show you where to go. However as a tourist and a solo female traveller, I would recommend being with some who is a local to show you where you can and commit go as a tourist so that you can know which areas to avoid.
Posted: March 18, 2025Paarl
Paarl is a scenic, Winelands valley. Generally, it’s safe during the day if you stick to the main parts of town. As with any place, there are dodgy areas: I would steer clear of Paarl East, Mbekwenie and Lady Grey Street. Those are hot spots to get mugged/assaulted. Daytime in Paarl is stunning and the nightlife is also not too shabby restaurant-wise. It’s a growing town, with many beautiful mountainous areas, but if you’re out and about at night, I’d recommend going with at least one other person. Paarl is one of the safer towns in South Africa, especially compared to hubs like Cape Town or Joburg.
Posted: February 14, 2025Johannesburg
Not safe , you have to be extra careful especially travelling to places you’re not familiar with and after dark. Better to do your research before going anywhere and keep your belongings safe at all times.
Posted: February 4, 2025Cape Town
It's safe if you're not stupid. You can't be completely carefree but it will be fine if you keep your belongings attached to you eg don't just have your phone/wallet hanging out of your pocket. Also definitely wouldn't recommend going out alone at night unless it's in a very safe area and even then be careful.
Posted: February 2, 2025
Anja
Stilbaai
Stilbaai is a small village with only 2 exits. There is virtually no crime and is very dafe for solo travelers. It's by the coast and vert safe for anyone wanting to travel here. Very welcoming locals a dnd great weather.
Posted: January 25, 2025Cape Town
Cape Town, like any country has its fair share of problems. It can be seen as a very unsafe place and statistics describe a high amount of crime. However I think that staying out of trouble is fairly easy when taking the right precautions. I think that it is very important to listen to locals and the advice we offer.
Posted: January 19, 2025Johannesburg
Johannesburg is a lively city with a lot to do, however it does have a high crime rate. I would highly suggest staying cautious of your surroundings and keeping your personal belongings safe. Certain areas are obviously much safer than others but always be vigilant and try to stay in public areas.
Posted: January 17, 2025Safety in South Africa
Cape Town
Johannesburg
Tzaneen
Pretoria
Durban
Jeffreys Bay
Knysna
Upington
Paarl
Stellenbosch
Pietermaritzburg
Stilbaai
Frequently asked questions
Is South Africa safe?
Is South Africa safe to walk alone at night?
Is public transport safe in South Africa?
What is the crime rate in South Africa?
What is the risk of being sexually harassed in South Africa?
What is the risk of being sexually assaulted or raped in South Africa?
What is the risk of being physically attacked in South Africa?
What is the risk of burglary in South Africa?
What is the risk of being mugged or robbed in South Africa?
What is the risk of being kidnapped or murdered in South Africa?
