Is Pietermaritzburg Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Pietermaritzburg maintains a moderate safety level. During the day, usual precautions like avoidance of flaunting valuable possessions and vigilant awareness of your surroundings are generally enough to ensure safety. Potential safety issues related to petty theft and pickpocketing could be encountered, particularly in crowded areas. At night, it is advisable not to walk alone and to opt for reliable transportation and well-lit areas. Emergency services are available and effective but it's always better to be cautious.

Safety rating

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Pietermaritzburg is currently ranked #97 safest place in South Africa for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 2 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Pietermaritzburg?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Walking alone at night in Pietermaritzburg isn't recommended for solo female travelers. While there are safer areas in the city, there are also neighborhoods with higher rates of crime. Public transportation can be unreliable and it's not uncommon for tourists to be targets of petty crime such as bag snatching or pickpocketing, especially at night. It is advisable to avoid isolated or poorly lit areas and always maintain a heightened level of vigilance.

Public transportation:Moderate

The public transportation in Pietermaritzburg is moderately safe. It is regularly used by locals and visitors alike. However, like any other city globally, it has its potential risks, predominantly petty thefts or scams. Always keep a close eye on your belongings, use trusted taxi services or ride-sharing apps and avoid travelling late at night to ensure your safety.

Street harassment:Moderate

Pietermaritzburg, like many other urban areas, experiences some degree of street harassment. It's common to come across unwelcome comments or persistent gazes, particularly in crowded places. It's advisable to stay alert and conscious of your surroundings. However, it's worth noting that many locals and authorities are friendly and helpful. Incidents of street harassment can occur but are not prevalent as such. Therefore, it's relatively safe but precaution is always recommended.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Pietermaritzburg does have instances of petty crime like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and minor scams, primarily in crowded areas such as markets and tourist spots. However, practicing general caution and vigilance, especially in crowded or remote areas, can significantly reduce the chances of petty theft.

Is Pietermaritzburg worth visiting?

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Is Pietermaritzburg safe for women?

Pietermaritzburg is beautiful but unfortunately isn't the city it used to be. It has recently become more and more unsafe especially since there have been so many foreigners moving into the city partaking in illegal activities

Posted: December 29, 2024

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