Is Pretoria safe for solo female travelers?
Pretoria generally maintains a moderate level of safety for solo female travelers. While South Africa does have high crime rates in certain areas, Pretoria itself is relatively safer, especially in its central and tourist areas where visitors usually stay. However, like every other city worldwide, it has districts that are less safe. Be vigilant, especially at night, avoid walking alone in remote areas, and keep your valuables out of sight. It's advisable to rely on reputable transportation companies or rent a car, rather than use public means, and always keep the doors locked while driving. As a rule of thumb, always follow the local advice on areas to avoid.
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How safe is Pretoria?
Safety at night:Unsafe
Pretoria, the capital city of South Africa, does offer some bustling nightlife activities, but it is generally advisable not to walk alone at night. Crime rates can be high in certain areas and vary based on the area, time of day, and individual circumstances. Use reputable taxi services or rideshares when traveling at night, and always be vigilant of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when possible.
Public transportation:Moderate
Public transportation in Pretoria varies widely in safety. The city's metro rail system and bus lines, such as the Gautrain bus service, are generally reliable and safe during the day. However, some minibuses and taxis can be less secure, especially in less frequented areas and after dark. Some have a reputation for speeding or not following traffic rules. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings, and try to travel with others when possible.
Street harassment:Moderate
As in many bustling cities, Pretoria has its share of street harassment incidents. These can range from verbal comments to unwanted attention and more explicit forms of harassment. However, harassment is not consistent in all areas and at all times. There are neighborhoods where you're likely to feel very comfortable and secure. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated locations, especially at night, and connect with locals or expatriate communities to understand which areas are safe.
Petty crimes:High
In Pretoria, as with many large urban areas, petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles do occur. These crimes are more frequent in bustling areas such as transport hubs, markets, and crowded shopping districts. It's advisable to keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially during the evening and night. However, with general precautions, it should not significantly hinder your travel experience.
Tap water:Moderate
In Pretoria, the tap water is generally safe to drink as it goes through a rigorous quality control process. However, local standards may vary, and there could be occasional water quality issues. Some visitors also report minor illness due to water not matching their home country's standard. Therefore, to stay on the safer side, opt for bottled water especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
Is Pretoria safe to travel?
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Before your visit to Pretoria, it's essential to check travel advisories for South Africa, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution
The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in South Africa due to crime and civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: February 5, 2024
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution
The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in South Africa due to the significant level of serious crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: March 13, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution
The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in South Africa due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: February 21, 2024
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