based on 7 experiences from female travelers
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, 2022I 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, 2023I 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, 2023I 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, 2023I 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, 2023I spent 6 weeks in South Africa traveling solo and it was fantastic. Lots of history and great neighborhoods to discover. Also, the craft markets are great. I recommend using the Hop On and Off bus to get oriented. In some areas it's better to walk, and in others I used Uber or Gautrain. Transportation is easy and most places are accessible on foot. As for safety, ask locals for advice on where it's safe to walk alone (sometimes only during the day).
Posted: July 26, 2023I was there in May. I stayed very close to O. R. Tambo International Airport and it was safe. However, we did very few trips outside of Johannesburg, even the locals told us that it is not very safe there. We went to Durban for one day by taxi.
Posted: July 23, 2023Based on 9 local experiences
Based on 9 local experiences
Navs
Depending on the areas you visit c this can be a bit unsafe. If you stay in the tourist areas and near the big cities (besides Johannesburg CBD), you should have a good time! I would even suggest a solo trip to Joburg, but just do your research about where exactly you are going- Joburgers are friendly people at heart!
Posted: March 31, 2025Not 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, 2025Thato
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.
Princess
Hey everyone,👋I’m from South Africa🇿🇦I enjoy travelling and will be doing my first international backpacking trip in September 2025. I love the outdoors and nature, so I’m planning to explore Switzerland Alps and Italy (Dolomites) AV1. Open to engage with travellers who will be doing similar trips this year or those who have done them and would like to share tips.
Princess
Johannesburg
3 days
Hey everyone,👋I’m from South Africa🇿🇦I enjoy travelling and will be doing my first international backpacking trip in September 2025. I love the outdoors and nature, so I’m planning to explore Switzerland Alps and Italy (Dolomites) AV1. Open to engage with travellers who will be doing similar trips this year or those who have done them and would like to share tips.
Camille
Johannesburg
3 days
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 :)