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 67 local experiences

Local crime index

3.3 /5

Based on 67 local experiences

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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Heldervue

Very Safe, quiet neighborhood, not far from Cape Town and close to Stellenbosch Wine Route. 10min Drive to beach. Beautiful sea views. Walking distance from Shopping Mall (Waterstone village) as well as Gym.

Posted: February 1, 2026
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Safety in South Africa

Hospitality Exchange in South Africa

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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Samke

Samke

La- Mercy

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Grounded and curious, I value meaningful connections that go beyond borders, cultures, and surface-level conversations. I’m drawn to emotionally mature, kind people who lead with empathy and self-awareness. I enjoy travelling not just for the places, but for the shared moments, stories, and perspectives that come with it. I love deep conversations, good food, and laughter that feels natural and unforced.

Speaking

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