Is Cape Town Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Cape Town is a city of contrasts with areas that are safe, especially popular tourist areas like the City Bowl, the Atlantic Seaboard, and the Southern Suburbs. It is common for solo female travelers to visit these areas without issue. However, it is important to be cautious as crime, including muggings and theft, can occur. Always be alert, avoid unlit areas or unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, and use common sense when it comes to personal safety. Utilize transportation options that are known to be secure. Public perception of safety can vary, so always do your research and stay alerted to the conditions around you.

Safety rating

3.8 /5

Based on 33 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.1 /5

Based on 15 experiences from local women

Cape Town is currently ranked #7 safest place in South Africa for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.8 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Cape Town?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Cape Town has a mixed safety record. While it is an enthralling travel destination with great culture and history, caution is advised especially at night. Walking alone isn't recommended due to the risk of petty crimes, like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing. It's best to use trusted cab services or reputable travel companies for night-time traveling. Be sure to stay in well-populated, well-lit areas and always be aware of your surroundings to ensure safety.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Cape Town, has a moderate score in terms of safety. While the MyCiti bus service is typically regarded as safe and reliable, it is advisable to be cautious, particularly at night and in certain areas. Minibus taxis and trains have received mixed reviews on safety, with some incidents of crime, so it's always important to remain alert. It is recommended for solo female travelers to take precautions, stay vigilant and avoid public transportation alone especially at late hours.

Street harassment:Moderate

While Cape Town is a relatively safe city to visit, street harassment does occur, although not to high extents. It is prevalent in specific areas and particularly during certain times, such as late at night in deserted spots. Be mindful of your surroundings, look confident and walk purposefully. Stick to populated and well-lit areas when possible, especially at night.

Petty crimes:High

Cape Town, like many major cities, does experience a notable level of petty crime. These can include pickpocketing, purse snatching, or theft from unguarded belongings especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Always keep an eye on your belongings, avoid displaying expensive items, and stay aware of your surroundings to mitigate this risk.

Is Cape Town worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 33 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.8/5

Safety

3.8/5

Food

4.8/5

Budget-friendly

4.1/5

Family travel

I felt sooo safe as in even after it got dark and well past my normal "get into the house now or else your in danger" time We budgeted around 10k+ including travel n lodging expenses plus food n activites and for transport we used Uber everywhere(extremely expensive) id reccomend renting a car instead since it'll be cheaper in the long run else the traffic is controlled and neat We stayed at ocean vibes inn it was an amazing place and the owners were extremely nice but i wouldn't recommend as its far from most of the activies which are literally in the centre or near VA waterfront which was far from us

Posted: April 26, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Solo travel

Overall I felt safe, because I followed advice from Lokals. Never leave your belongings unwatched. Don't enter Townships and put your phone away while waiting for your Uber. I can really recommend doing a sunrise hike on lions head. But make sure other people will join you for that.

Posted: December 5, 2024Experienced: September, 2024

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Solo travel

I had very good experiences and felt very safe there. You obviously have to be careful where you go, take Ubers (super cheap), book some tours, and enjoy the views, delicious food, and wine. Those were my best holidays, and I will definitely go back there.

Posted: November 14, 2024

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Couple travel

It’s a beautiful experience, the people are friendly the food taste amazing and full of flavor. Service is fairly good. Lots of activities and extremely affordable. You will love the sunsets and exquisite views of nature

Posted: August 24, 2024Experienced: July, 2024

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Annie

United Kingdom

Solo travel

- boulders beach - cutest penguins - incredible restaurants * Fynn * chefs warehouse - wine tours - get the wine tram! - tidal pools - Saunders beach - beautiful hikes * lions head Safety - highly recommend Ubers and only walking where you know is safe/ been recommended by a local

Posted: June 12, 2024Experienced: March, 2024

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Is Cape Town safe for women?

Safety index

2.1 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Crime index

3.5 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Maia

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, 2025

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Meet locals in Cape Town

Yağmur

About Me

I’m Yağmur a warm and friendly soul who loves exploring, creating, and connecting with inspiring women. I believe in living with joy, supporting each other, and sharing real moments. Whether it’s chatting over coffee, walking by the sea, or just being there for one another, I’m here for good energy and honest connections. Let’s lift each other up and enjoy this journey together

Speaking

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Maia

About Me

My name is Maia.💗 Im from the USA, i moved to cape town when i was three. Im a nail tech and im still a student at the moment, im a foodie and a binge watching series girlie and loveeee the winter💗 I love making new friends im also a very humorous person, I love nature and love going on walks im also a gardening girlie ifykyk im open to making new friends and trying new adventures♡

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Stay with locals in Cape Town

Daleen

Cape Town

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! Im 42 year old South African living in Cape Town. I have travelled extensively and lived abroad for over 20 years! I enjoy hiking, running , mountain biking and delishes food! I am a legal secreatry working remotely so the world is your oyster. I have 2 children (age 21 and 19) and been married for over 22 years, yes a very long time 😂

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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.

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Upcoming visitors to Cape Town

Diplomomwife

About Me

I'm a wife, mom of two teenage boys, world traveler, and diplomat. I've lived in seven countries, traveled to 38 countries; and if I haven't been there yet, it's on my list. I'm looking to meet ladies who have similar interests and make new friends in new places.