Is Cape Town Safe? Surprisingly Low Crime Against Tourists

Loaded question. According to our parents, the answer is no because they're instantly afraid we'll be scooped up by criminals the moment we step off the plane. Ask the TripAdvisor or Reddit community, and the answer will usually be the same: if you're street smart, it's just as safe as walking around in your U.S. hometown. So, which is it? Is Cape Town safe or not?

My wife, Sarah, and I spent a week in Cape Town as first-time visitors. We're going to share 1) how we determined if Cape Town felt safe for us and 2) our honest travel experience during our weeklong stay in the Mother City.

I'm guilty. When I first considered Cape Town, my thoughts (just like my parents') immediately went to crime statistics and scenes from action movies set in South Africa. I am human after all, and Cape Town was once known as a dangerous place.

But after seeing recent travelers' positive experiences, we decided it was time to challenge this negative perception. By the way, I'm a middle-aged traveler (yikes, I hate to admit this because in my mind I'm "29" forever, lol!) and have visited 6 continents and 32 countries from Cambodia to Zimbabwe to Chile. My definition of risk in my 20s is much different than now. I offer this background so you understand the person sharing this Cape Town safety perspective.

Alright, let's quickly review the 3 safety factor checklist we used to determine if Cape Town felt safe to visit. Then we'll chat about why you probably landed on this post... firsthand travel experience in the 7 most popular Cape Town neighborhoods.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

If you don't know this already, the U.S. Department of State posts travel advisory ratings on all countries that range from 1-4.

1 = Exercise normal precautions (white)2 = Exercise increased caution (yellow)3 = Reconsider travel (orange)4 = Do not travel (red)

We only travel to destinations labeled 1 or 2. It's important to know that different ratings can exist in the same country. For example, South Africa has ratings of 2 and 3!

Always look at the whole picture to make your decision. Even in my hometown city, there are places I would walk (and not walk) after dark.

Know your 2s and 3s!

If you look at the State Department map, you'll see Cape Town is yellow and labeled a level 2 (exercise increased caution). But if you go to certain areas outside Cape Town, it's labeled a level 3 (reconsider travel).

Stick to the donut hole in the middle.

U.S. Department of State Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

It's always important to understand what's going on in a country financially, socially, and politically to help you determine if you should go or not.

Interestingly, a lot of money is being poured into South Africa from the auto industry. Ford has major operations in the country, and other foreign automakers are following suit. This financial investment could translate into more jobs and improved quality of life, which potentially means more stability. Of course, this is all speculation.

I also look for any news on crime targeting tourists. It's one thing if you hear about incidents between local criminal groups, but it's an entirely different thing if you hear about tourists being targeted in well-known tourist sections.

The latter situation would be a deal-breaker.

For example, we drove all around the Garden Route years ago and loved it! We even went cage diving with great white sharks, which was a major bucket list item for me.

But recently, I heard news about tourists getting caught in the crossfire of criminal activities in some areas. The situation would need to change if we were to consider traveling to certain parts of the country again.

I was surprised then when I found NO recent news of any hard crime against tourists in Cape Town's main areas. There were some reports of petty theft and pickpocketing, but nothing involving violent crime against visitors in popular tourist zones.

Politically, Cape Town has been relatively stable. There are elections coming up though, so it's important to stay updated as things can change.

Current News Check: PASS (with caution)

03 - Community Forums

Recent traveler experiences are invaluable.

Although you can get "fake news" or trolls reporting false information, TripAdvisor Forum and Reddit communities are good sources to check on fellow travelers' personal experiences.

Always check to see if the person posting has other comments and reviews to gauge legitimacy. A one-time poster is always suspicious.

Now usually, you'll get the same answer if you ask if a place is safe in these forums. The common reply is to take all the normal precautions like you do back at home, and you'll be fine.

Occasionally though, you will have a traveler reporting a personal incident.

When I researched Cape Town, I found mostly positive experiences from travelers who had recently visited. Many mentioned feeling safe in tourist areas but advised caution in certain neighborhoods and at night.

One TripAdvisor user, Adventurer592, wrote: "We felt very safe in Cape Town, especially in the V&A Waterfront area. Just use common sense like in any big city."

This sentiment was echoed across multiple forums, giving us confidence in our decision to visit.

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Cape Town

Alright, now the juicy part. We felt we had researched enough to give us a sense that Cape Town was safe with the usual precautions.

Did our research match our experience?

Yes... mostly!

We spent 1 week in Cape Town. Here's our experience as first-time visitors to Cape Town WALKING around (we walked quite a bit!) and as an UBER passenger.

First things first.

Know your neighborhoods. Just like in my hometown, I know where to walk and where not to walk.

If you don't know where the sketchy parts are located, then definitely stick to the tourist sections like we did (minus one uneventful but briefly nerve-racking situation which I'll discuss at the end where I didn't follow this advice).

Here are the 7 neighborhoods we visited in Cape Town:

01 - City Bowl (Central Business District)

The City Bowl is the heart of Cape Town, nestled between Table Mountain and the harbor. It's a vibrant mix of historic buildings, modern offices, and trendy cafes.

My wife and I felt comfortable walking around the City Bowl during the day. We visited:

→ The Company's Garden (a beautiful public park with a rich history)→ Greenmarket Square (great for souvenir shopping)→ Long Street (known for its Victorian architecture and lively atmosphere)

At night, we were more cautious and stuck to well-lit areas. We noticed a visible security presence, which was reassuring.

Is the City Bowl Safe? YES, BUT BE CAUTIOUS AT NIGHT

02 - V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is probably the safest and most tourist-friendly area in Cape Town. It's a buzzing harbor front with shops, restaurants, and attractions.

We felt completely at ease here, both day and night. We enjoyed:

→ The Cape Wheel (great views of the city and Table Mountain)→ Two Oceans Aquarium (impressive marine life exhibits)→ Watershed Market (local crafts and design)

The area is well-patrolled and has 24/7 security. We saw families with children, couples, and solo travelers all enjoying the area without concern.

Is V&A Waterfront Safe? YES, VERY SAFE

03 - Camps Bay and Clifton

These upscale beachfront areas are known for their stunning beaches and trendy restaurants. We spent a day here and felt very safe.

We enjoyed:

→ Sunbathing on Camps Bay Beach→ Lunch at a beachfront restaurant→ A scenic drive along Victoria Road

While the beaches are generally safe during the day, we were advised to be vigilant with our belongings and not to visit after dark.

Are Camps Bay and Clifton Safe? YES, ESPECIALLY DURING THE DAY

04 - Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap is a colorful, historic neighborhood known for its bright houses and Cape Malay culture. We visited during the day and found it to be safe and welcoming.

We explored:

→ The Bo-Kaap Museum→ Took photos of the colorful houses→ Enjoyed a Cape Malay cooking class

While we felt safe during the day, we were advised not to walk around alone at night.

Is Bo-Kaap Safe? YES DURING THE DAY, CAUTION AT NIGHT

05 - Table Mountain National Park

No trip to Cape Town is complete without visiting Table Mountain. We took the cable car up (tip: book your tickets online to avoid long queues) and did some light hiking at the top.

The area felt safe, with plenty of other tourists around. However, we were warned about hiking alone on some of the more isolated trails due to occasional muggings.

Is Table Mountain Safe? YES, BUT STICK TO POPULAR AREAS AND DON'T HIKE ALONE

06 - Woodstock

Woodstock is a trendy area undergoing gentrification. We visited during the day to check out the Old Biscuit Mill market and some art galleries.

While we felt okay during our visit, we were advised to be more cautious here, especially in less developed parts.

Is Woodstock Safe? EXERCISE CAUTION, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT

07 - Khayelitsha

Khayelitsha is one of Cape Town's largest townships. We didn't visit on our own but took a guided tour with a reputable company. It was an eye-opening experience that gave us a deeper understanding of Cape Town's history and current social issues.

While we felt safe with our guide, this is not an area tourists should explore independently.

Is Khayelitsha Safe for Tourists? ONLY VISIT WITH A REPUTABLE GUIDED TOUR

Cape Town by Foot and Uber

Walking around Cape Town was generally a pleasant experience, especially in areas like the V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay. However, we always remained aware of our surroundings and avoided walking at night in less populated areas.

We used Uber extensively in Cape Town and found it to be safe, reliable, and affordable. The drivers were professional, and the app's tracking feature gave us peace of mind.

Here's where we Ubered either because of distance or out of precaution:

→ Cape Town International Airport to/from hotel: DISTANCE→ Hotel to/from Khayelitsha tour meeting point: DISTANCE + PRECAUTION→ Hotel to/from Table Mountain: DISTANCE→ V&A Waterfront to Hotel: PRECAUTION (due to later hour)→ Camps Bay to Hotel: DISTANCE + PRECAUTION (due to later hour)

Otherwise, we walked or used the hop-on-hop-off bus, which is a great way to see the city safely.

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experience, here's a suggested 3-day itinerary that balances popular attractions and safety:

Day 1:

• Morning: V&A Waterfront (breakfast, Cape Wheel, Aquarium)
• Afternoon: City Bowl walking tour
• Evening: Dinner at V&A Waterfront

Day 2:

• Morning: Table Mountain (book first cable car up)
• Afternoon: Camps Bay Beach
• Evening: Sunset drinks in Camps Bay, Uber back to hotel

Day 3:

• Morning: Bo-Kaap walking tour
• Afternoon: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant in your hotel's neighborhood

Remember to book activities in advance when possible and always check current conditions before setting out.

Final Thoughts

So, did we feel safe in Cape Town?

Yes, but with caveats.

Cape Town surprised us with its beauty and warmth. Yes, be street smart, but don't let fear stop you from experiencing this amazing city!

But as first-time visitors...

• We stuck to the tourist areas only (besides that one guided township tour)
• Did not wear flashy clothing or jewelry
• Kept our valuables like our phones well hidden
• Took Uber when we felt we needed to, especially at night
• Accomplished most of our sightseeing during the day
• Were usually back at our hotel by 9/10 pm (hey, we're older-ish)

Always use common sense, and remember to check a destination's current events since things can change.

Here are some additional safety tips:

• Use reputable transportation services, especially at night
• Keep car doors locked and windows up while driving
• Stick to well-populated and tourist-friendly areas
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas
• Use hotel safes for passports and valuable items
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid those in isolated areas
• Keep emergency numbers handy and share your itinerary with someone
• Trust your instincts and leave any situation that feels unsafe

We went to Cape Town for the stunning landscapes, rich history, and amazing food, and it SURPASSED our expectations. If you decide to book that trip, I strongly suggest making the V&A Waterfront area your home base.

Remember, millions of tourists visit Cape Town safely each year. By staying informed, exercising caution, and following local advice, you can minimize risks and fully appreciate the city's stunning beauty and vibrant culture.

I hope this perspective helps as you make your own travel safety decision.

Safe and happy travels!

About Us

We're West and Sarah Parker, a middle-aged couple (though we prefer to think of ourselves as "eternally youthful") from Florida. We've been fortunate enough to visit 6 continents and 32 countries, always with an eye for safety and a stomach for good food.

As remote workers, we've made it our mission to explore the world while helping others travel better and safer. We believe that with the right information and a dash of common sense, everyone can experience the joy of travel - and we're here to help make that happen.

Our articles are all about finding those win-win situations: where you can step out of your comfort zone just enough to have an amazing experience, without compromising on safety. So whether you're a nervous first-time traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, we hope our experiences can help you navigate your next adventure with confidence (and find some great food along the way)!

Safety Statistics and Ratings

Let's dive into some numbers to give you a clearer picture of safety in Cape Town. Remember, statistics don't tell the whole story, but they can help provide context:

1. Cape Town's murder rate decreased by 13% in 2019/2020 compared to the previous year. While this is positive progress, it's important to note that crime rates can fluctuate.
2. The city center of Cape Town has over 300 public surveillance cameras monitored 24/7. This extensive CCTV coverage helps deter crime and assist law enforcement.
3. Cape Town International Airport has been ranked the best airport in Africa for safety measures. This was a relief for us as soon as we landed!
4. Table Mountain National Park employs over 50 rangers to ensure visitor safety on hiking trails. Still, it's crucial to follow park safety guidelines and be cautious of wildlife.
5. The Western Cape government has implemented a dedicated Tourism Safety Response Unit. This specialized unit focuses on visitor safety, which we found reassuring.
6. Cape Town's beaches have a flag system to indicate safe swimming areas and potential hazards. Always look for these flags and follow lifeguard instructions.
7. The city has a dedicated Tourism Safety Officers program to assist visitors in popular areas. We spotted these officers in places like the V&A Waterfront and felt more secure knowing they were around.
8. Cape Town has implemented a "Safe Spaces" initiative for homeless individuals, aiming to reduce street-based crimes. This social program shows the city's efforts to address underlying issues related to crime.
9. The city's public transportation system, MyCiTi, has implemented various safety measures, including CCTV cameras on buses and at stations. While we mainly used Uber, it's good to know public transport is taking safety seriously.
10. Cape Town has a dedicated Sea, Air and Mountain (SAM) Special Operations Rescue team for emergency situations in outdoor areas. This was comforting to know before our Table Mountain adventure!
11. In the Global Peace Index 2021, South Africa ranked 123rd out of 163 countries. While not the best ranking, it's important to remember that Cape Town often fares better than the national average.
12. The World Health Organization ranks South Africa 183rd out of 195 countries for road safety. This reminded us to be extra cautious when crossing streets or considering renting a car.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding local customs and culture can go a long way in ensuring your safety. Here are some insights we gained:

1. South Africa has a complex history of apartheid. While Cape Town is generally welcoming to all, it's important to be sensitive to racial issues and avoid making assumptions or generalizations.
2. Learning a few basic greetings in Afrikaans or Xhosa can help break the ice with locals. We found that a simple "Hallo" (Afrikaans) or "Molo" (Xhosa) often brought smiles to people's faces.
3. Tipping is customary in Cape Town, usually around 10-15% in restaurants. We noticed that treating service staff well generally resulted in friendly, helpful interactions.
4. Be aware that there's still significant economic disparity in Cape Town. Flaunting wealth or expensive items can make you a target for petty theft.
5. Respect wildlife, especially baboons near Table Mountain. These animals can be aggressive if they feel threatened or if they think you have food. We kept our distance and avoided carrying visible snacks.

Safety for Different Traveler Types

Safety considerations can vary depending on who you are and how you travel. Here's what we learned:

Solo Travelers

• Stay in well-reviewed hostels or accommodations where you can meet other travelers.
• Join group tours or activities to explore with others.
• Be extra vigilant about personal safety, especially at night.
• Consider using a money belt to keep valuables secure.

Women Travelers

• Cape Town is generally safe for women, but extra caution is advisable, especially at night.
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or after dark.
• Use reputable transportation services like Uber or registered taxis.
• Trust your instincts – if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave.

Families

• Cape Town has many family-friendly areas and activities, particularly around the V&A Waterfront.
• Keep children close in crowded areas to prevent separation.
• Consider guided tours for safer exploration of areas like Table Mountain or the townships.
• Be cautious with food and water to prevent illness – we stuck to bottled water just to be safe.

LGBTQ+ Visitors

• Cape Town is known as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Africa, especially in tourist areas.
• However, it's still wise to exercise discretion in more conservative neighborhoods.
• Research LGBTQ+-friendly establishments and events before your trip.
• Be aware that attitudes may be less accepting outside of Cape Town's urban areas.

Travelers with Disabilities

• Check the accessibility of accommodations and attractions in advance. We noticed that newer areas like the V&A Waterfront were generally more accessible.
• Use official tourism resources for information on accessible transportation options.
• Be aware that some areas, particularly in the older parts of the city, may have limited accessibility infrastructure.

Safe Nightlife Guide

Cape Town has a vibrant nightlife scene, but it's important to party responsibly. Here's how we navigated the night scene safely:

1. Stick to well-known, popular venues in safe areas like Camps Bay or V&A Waterfront. We enjoyed sundowners at Café Caprice in Camps Bay – great vibe and felt very secure.
2. Use reputable ride-sharing services or taxis for transportation. We never walked back to our hotel after a night out.
3. Keep an eye on your drink and don't accept drinks from strangers. This is just good practice anywhere in the world.
4. Go out in groups and look out for each other. We met some fellow travelers and had a great time exploring the nightlife together.
5. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a place feels sketchy, it probably is.

Scams and Petty Crimes to Watch Out For

While we thankfully didn't experience any issues, we were warned about these common scams:

1. Pickpocketing in crowded areas or on public transportation. We used anti-theft bags and kept valuables close.
2. "Smash and grab" thefts from vehicles at intersections. We always kept car doors locked and windows up.
3. ATM scams - be wary of strangers offering help. We only used ATMs inside banks during business hours.
4. Fake tour guides or accommodation scams. We booked everything through reputable companies or platforms.
5. Overcharging by unlicensed taxis. This is why we stuck to Uber or official taxi services.

Emergency Information

It's always good to be prepared. Here's some essential emergency info:

Emergency Numbers:

• General Emergency: 107 or 021 480 7700
• South African Police Service: 10111
• Ambulance: 10177
• Table Mountain Emergency: 021 480 7700

Reputable Hospitals:

• Groote Schuur Hospital: Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925
• Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital: 25 D.F. Malan St, Cape Town City Centre, 8000

Embassy Contact Details:

• U.S. Consulate General: 2 Reddam Ave, Westlake, Cape Town, 7945
• UK Consulate: 15th Floor, Norton Rose House, 8 Riebeek Street, Cape Town, 8001
• Australian Consulate: 2nd Floor, Mandela Rhodes Building, Corner of Wale and Burg Streets, Cape Town, 8000

Recent Changes Affecting Visitor Safety

It's crucial to stay updated on current events. Here are some recent developments we noted:

1. Weather Concerns: Cape Town has been experiencing wet and windy weather, which could impact visitor safety and outdoor activities. Always check the forecast before planning your day.
2. Load Shedding: Ongoing power outages, known as load shedding, continue to affect Cape Town. This can impact street lighting and security systems, potentially increasing safety risks after dark. We downloaded the EskomSePush app to stay informed about outage schedules.
3. Parliamentary Protests: Isolated protests occurred during South Africa's first parliamentary sitting in 2024. While these were limited, it's good to be aware of potential political demonstrations in the city center.
4. Travel Advisory Updates: Recent updates to travel advisories for South Africa emphasize the need for increased caution due to crime and civil unrest. Always check your country's latest travel advisories before your trip.
5. Enhanced Security Measures: The city has been expanding its surveillance network in tourist areas and implementing stricter penalties for crimes against tourists. This increased focus on visitor safety was evident during our stay.

A Personal Story

I promised to share a brief nerve-wracking experience, so here goes. One afternoon, feeling adventurous, I decided to take a solo walk to a nearby cafe that was just outside our usual "safe" area. I thought, "It's broad daylight, what could go wrong?"

Well, I soon found myself in a neighborhood that felt less welcoming. The streets were quieter, buildings looked run-down, and I noticed a few people eyeing me suspiciously. My heart started racing, and I realized I had made a mistake.

I quickly turned around and headed back to familiar territory, all the while trying to look confident and purposeful. Nothing happened, but those few minutes of uncertainty were enough to remind me of the importance of sticking to well-known areas and trusting my instincts.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson: it's okay to be adventurous, but always within reason. From then on, I made sure to thoroughly research any new areas before exploring and to stick with Sarah or a group when venturing into unfamiliar parts of the city.

Final Thoughts On Cape Town Safety

Looking back on our week in Cape Town, we can confidently say that with proper precautions, it's possible to have a safe and incredibly rewarding visit to this beautiful city. The key is to stay informed, remain aware of your surroundings, and make smart decisions.

Cape Town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. From the stunning views atop Table Mountain to the poignant history of Robben Island, from the vibrant food scene to the warm hospitality of locals, there's so much to discover.

Yes, there are safety concerns, as there are in many major cities around the world. But don't let fear hold you back from experiencing all that Cape Town has to offer. With the right preparation and mindset, you can create memories that will last a lifetime.

Remember, travel is about stepping out of your comfort zone, but not at the expense of your safety. Stay smart, stay safe, and most importantly, enjoy the incredible journey that is Cape Town!

Safe travels, and don't forget to try a Cape Malay curry – it's to die for!