Is Johannesburg safe for solo female travelers?

Johannesburg, requires extra vigilance for solo female travelers. Although many visitors have enjoyable, incident-free stays, crime is a notable concern, particularly in certain districts after dark. It's vital to be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and use reputable means of transportation. Strive to stay in well-populated areas. As always, researching local customs and regulations can further improve safety.

Safety rating

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How safe is Johannesburg for solo female travelers?

Travel safety index

2.9 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Couple travel

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, 2022
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Solo travel

I 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, 2023
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Solo travel

I 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, 2023
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How safe is Johannesburg for women?

Local safety index

2.3 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Local crime index

3.6 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

It is important to find out about safer neighborhoods. Not all areas are safe in Johannesburg. Don't walk alone at night. If you use Uber and go to populated safer areas, your trip can still be very nice and safe.

Posted: May 10, 2025
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Johannesburg is a complex city. You have to know where and where not to go and hot to behave in this city in order not to be a victim of crime. I have lived here my whole life so I know how to navigate the city and ensure that my friends visiting from overseas are safe.

Posted: May 5, 2025
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Not 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, 2025
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Safety in South Africa

Hospitality Exchange in Johannesburg

Mpho

Mpho

Johannesburg

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I am an avid traveler and aim to one day say I have travelled to every country in the world. I work full time and travel when I get a chance to. I have been to 50+ countries so far

Speaking

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Camille

Camille

Johannesburg

Can host for:

3 days

About me

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 :)

Speaking

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Expats in Johannesburg

Camille

Camille

Johannesburg

About me

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 :)

Speaking

Lisa

Lisa

Johannesburg

About me

Hi!! I'm Lisa, nice to meet you all!! Currently based in Joburg for three months I hope to have the chance to make some friends here :) Feel free to text me

Speaking