Is South Africa safe for solo female travelers?

South Africa can be a challenging destination for solo female travelers due to concerns around crime. However, it's important to note that many visitors have safe trips. It is advisable to be vigilant, avoid isolated areas, particularly at night, and use secure transportation options. 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.

Safety rating

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How safe is South Africa for solo female travelers?

Travel safety index

3.9 /5

based on 61 experiences from female travelers

Cape Town, Solo travel

The city was really interesting and fun and I enjoyed going to the waterfront and seeing the seals and the penguins at bouldes beach was amazing. Table mountain was an incredible sight to see. I really enjoyed the hike all the way to the top

Posted: January 8, 2026Experienced: December, 2025
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Chiara

Chiara

South Africa

Graaff-Reinet, Family travel

Beautiful, amazing, interesting location with so much to see. A creative, artsy place with so many things to see, full of little details and tiny things to notice. Very friendly people and had a very nice stay.

Posted: January 3, 2026
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South Africa, Solo travel

One of my favorite countries to visit! Capetown is stunning and Johannesburg gives you a full cultural experience. The food was okay overall but the seafood was very fresh. I highly recommend visiting both CT & Jozi

Posted: December 4, 2025
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How safe is South Africa for women?

Local safety index

3 /5

Based on 68 reports

Local crime index

3.3 /5

Based on 68 reports

Jeffreys Bay

Jeffery’s bay is moderately safe in majority of the areas. You can’t and shouldn’t walk around at night much like anywhere in South Africa. You always have to be aware of your surroundings and try to travel in groups

Posted: March 5, 2026
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Pretoria

Pretoria city center is no good. Avoid. But the rest is pretty safe. Watch out for petty crime (theft of phone, wallet). Night driving on freeways on outskirts of Pretoria can be dangerous. Generally a safe place to live.

Posted: February 7, 2026
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Samke

Samke

Cape Town

Atlantic Seaboard is one of the safest areas to stay, offering peace of mind and a relaxed atmosphere. Still, it’s important to remain alert, cautious, and mindful of your surroundings at all times. I hope this helps

Posted: February 4, 2026
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Safety in South Africa

Hospitality Exchange in South Africa

Babedi

Babedi

Ga-Rankuwa

Can host for:

7 days

About me

I'm a shy person until I'm comfortable, I have 2 kids. Love to travel and eat. I am budget savvy. Love to dance and enjoy basking in the sun

Speaking

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Thato

Thato

Sandton

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Just a girl's girl looking to meet new people and show them around. I spend all my time at work, home or the gym. So I'm looking for new friends.

Speaking

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Samke

Samke

La- Mercy

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Grounded and curious, I value meaningful connections that go beyond borders, cultures, and surface-level conversations. I’m drawn to emotionally mature, kind people who lead with empathy and self-awareness. I enjoy travelling not just for the places, but for the shared moments, stories, and perspectives that come with it. I love deep conversations, good food, and laughter that feels natural and unforced.

Speaking

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Nadia

Nadia

Pretoria

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Im an open easy going woman, I'm only weird in a creative way. I enjoy laughing and dancing, hiking and creativity. I have a dog and a bird. A couch and a tiny tattoo studio at my house. I'm a part-time lecturer at TUT teaching theatre arts.

Speaking

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khanyisa

khanyisa

Cape Town

Can host for:

2 days

About me

My name is Khanyisa ☺️ I am 31 years old from Cape Town, South Africa. I love to meet people, travel and making connections. My passion is spirituality and healing ❤️‍🩹 exploring the psychedelic healing space at the moment. Looking forward to making new friends 🤍

Speaking

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Camille

Camille

Johannesburg

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey i’m Camille, im here for 3 months for an internship. Im a frenchie who love to discover the world, si if you want to do this with me just send a text :)

Speaking

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Tayla

Tayla

Cape Town

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey! I’m Tayla. I’m currently living in my dream spot back in my home country after living and travelling abroad for 4 years. I live by the sea with my 2 cats and Turkish partner. I absolutely know the struggle of finding safe places to chill while travelling and hope I can be a safe space for some ladies who need it.

Speaking

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Refentse

Refentse

Germiston

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I am a fun loving, keen traveler. I enjoy seeing new places and meeting new people. I am looking to make friends with other likeminded ladies who are keen to explore South Africa. I am hoping to connect with fellow ladies looking to be hosted in South Africa, Johannesburg and host me in their home country. Solo travelling can be daunting so it’s always nice when you “know” at least one person where you’re going.

Speaking

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Mari

Mari

Kleinsee

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I'm 31 years old and from Hermanus, South Africa. I travel solo. I enjoy meeting up with friends, meeting new people, having new experiences, and exploring.

Speaking

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Jessica

Jessica

Johannesburg

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey I’m Jessi and I’m currently studying in Johannesburg for a semester. I’d love to meet up and find some girl who’d be down to travel around South Africa and nearby countries together☺️

Speaking

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