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

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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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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