Is Johannesburg safe for solo female travelers?

Johannesburg, requires extra vigilance for solo female travelers. Although many visitors have enjoyable, incident-free stays, crime is a notable concern, particularly in certain districts after dark. It's vital to be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and use reputable means of transportation. Strive to stay in well-populated areas. As always, researching local customs and regulations can further improve safety.

Safety rating

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How safe is Johannesburg for female travelers?

Travel safety index

2.9 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Couple travel

Johannesburg is beautiful and quite safe if you choose the right areas to stay and hang around. A lot of travellers are afraid of traveling to South Africa because of the high crime rate in the city but from my experience it all depends on the areas. I would highly recommend staying Sandton or areas close for safety and general aesthetic. Sandton is relatively more expensive than other areas but it's worth it!

Posted: September 21, 2024Experienced: July, 2022
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Solo travel

I advise against travelling to Johannesburg alone - it's best to get around the city with locals. Ubers are safe, but avoid walking around the city alone.

Posted: November 6, 2023
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Solo travel

I stayed at a hostel where local staff clearly explained where it is safe, where you can go shopping, and where you absolutely should not go. From my own experience, I can recommend the Apartheid Museum and Soweto. In Soweto, there is the Mandela Museum and the street where he lived. Overall, I had a good time, but it's best when there is someone onsite who can tell you what is safe and what is not.

Posted: November 4, 2023
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Solo travel

I was in Johannesburg as a lone traveler for 3 days. I joined two tours with AirBnB Experience (Maboneng and Soweto) and I really enjoyed both of them. I recommend taking an Uber directly from the hotel and not bringing any valuables with you. I stayed in Rosebank and felt safe.

Posted: October 12, 2023
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Solo travel

I traveled alone in Johannesburg, but I stayed in hostels behind gates and hired a local guide to see the city center, and then I took part in a bike tour in Soweto, where the driver picked me up from the hostel and also took me to the Apartheid Museum. I highly recommend a visit to the Kruger Park. I quite liked Johannesburg, but I was very cautious and chose a hostel with a bar and cafe, so I did not have to go out in the evening.

Posted: October 12, 2023
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How safe is Johannesburg for women?

Local safety index

2.3 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Local crime index

3.6 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

It is important to find out about safer neighborhoods. Not all areas are safe in Johannesburg. Don't walk alone at night. If you use Uber and go to populated safer areas, your trip can still be very nice and safe.

Posted: May 10, 2025
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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, 2025
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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, 2025
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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, 2025
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Its is not safe to walk at night without somebody. Home invasions are common, thus, most houses have high walls and an alarm. Phones or bags often get stolen when drinking a coffee at a cafe when people are not paying attention.

Posted: December 30, 2024
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Safety in South Africa