{"id":8853,"date":"2019-04-22T15:38:00","date_gmt":"2019-04-22T15:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/safety-in-cape-town-is-cape-town-dangerous\/"},"modified":"2026-02-12T13:42:38","modified_gmt":"2026-02-12T13:42:38","slug":"cape-town-safety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/south-africa\/travel-tips\/cape-town-safety\/","title":{"rendered":"Safety in Cape Town: Is the Mother City Dangerous?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-drop-cap\">Wondering whether Cape Town is a safe city? Rest assured, the Mother City is far from intimidating when you explore it with the right approach. With its turquoise-edged beaches, sun-drenched vineyards and the majestic Table Mountain, this radiant city attracts travellers from around the globe. Safety in Cape Town comes down to information, preparation and a touch of common sense. Here are the tips from our South African Travellers experts, creators of tailor-made journeys in <a href=\"\/en\/south-africa\/\">South Africa<\/a>, to help you enjoy your stay with complete peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding the reality of Cape Town<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A historical context worth knowing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa still bears the marks of Apartheid, a past that created deep social inequalities. Certain outlying areas, the townships, today concentrate poverty and the majority of crime statistics. However, these neighbourhoods are far from tourist zones and do not concern well-accompanied travellers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The centre of Cape Town, its residential quarters and seaside resorts stand out for their energy, creativity and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Cape Town is a vibrant, modern and open-minded city where getting around is easy once you know the best practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chapmans-peak-route-panoramique-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Panoramic view of Chapman's Peak in Cape Town\" class=\"wp-image-3383\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chapmans-peak-route-panoramique-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chapmans-peak-route-panoramique-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chapmans-peak-route-panoramique-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chapmans-peak-route-panoramique.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay and walk with confidence<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended neighbourhoods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The neighbourhoods of Green Point, Sea Point, Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Camps Bay and Constantia rank among the most pleasant and safest in the city. The City Bowl blends urban charm with a gentle way of life, featuring designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants and contemporary galleries. For a balanced trip combining ocean and nature, our advisors recommend the <a href=\"\/en\/south-africa\/garden-route-family\/\">Cape Town and Garden Route<\/a> itinerary, ideal for discovering the south of the country in the best conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Areas to approach with caution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As in any large city, some neighbourhoods simply require a little extra attention. Woodstock, Observatory and Bo-Kaap are lively, artistic areas best visited during the day with a guide. Avoid secluded alleyways after dark and opt for Uber rides, which are reliable and affordable. The N2 highway, which connects the airport to the city centre, is perfectly safe to drive along, as long as you do not stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"762\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/agent-securite-ville-du-cap-1024x762.jpg\" alt=\"CCID security officer in the streets of Cape Town\" class=\"wp-image-3384\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/agent-securite-ville-du-cap-1024x762.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/agent-securite-ville-du-cap-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/agent-securite-ville-du-cap-768x572.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/agent-securite-ville-du-cap.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smart habits for a worry-free trip<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Travelling in Cape Town is above all about adopting a few simple habits, just as you would in Paris, Rome or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use Uber or a private transfer in the evening &#8212; convenient and secure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep your valuables out of sight and avoid flashy displays of wealth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lock your car doors and plan your routes before nightfall.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not withdraw cash at night and decline help from strangers at ATMs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hike in a group, especially on Table Mountain or Lion&#8217;s Head.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never set out without a charged phone and a bottle of water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay calm in any unexpected situation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tourist areas benefit from active surveillance by the CCID, municipal security officers recognisable by their yellow vests, who patrol the busiest zones. In case of emergency, dial 112 from a mobile or 107 from a landline &#8212; the official assistance numbers for the Western Cape province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Separating myths from reality<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8220;Uber rides are not safe&#8221;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>False. Uber and Bolt services are regulated and GPS-tracked. They are the most popular transport option among locals and visitors alike, particularly in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8220;It is risky to drive in Cape Town&#8221;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not at all. The main roads in Cape Town are excellent, well-signposted and busy. Simply stick to the main routes and drive calmly, without stopping in isolated areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8220;Cape Town is a dangerous city&#8221;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No more so than any other major international metropolis. Incidents mostly occur in disadvantaged areas, far from tourist circuits. With carefully selected accommodation, local assistance and well-organised planning, a trip to Cape Town is an entirely serene experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/manchot-du-cap-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"African penguin on Boulders Beach in South Africa\" class=\"wp-image-3382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/manchot-du-cap-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/manchot-du-cap-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/manchot-du-cap-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/manchot-du-cap.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our travel designers&#8217; recommendations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Because a successful trip starts with great inspiration, our travel designers share their exclusive recommendations, drawn from their first-hand knowledge of the region. Since 2007, South African Travellers has been crafting tailor-made itineraries for every traveller, combining safety, comfort and authenticity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Among our favourite suggestions, discover our <a href=\"\/en\/south-africa\/south-africa-highlights\/\">South Africa family itinerary<\/a> &#8212; a complete experience blending Cape Town, safaris and vineyards, designed for young and old alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Going further<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Continue your discovery with our travel journals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"\/en\/south-africa\/travel-tips\/things-to-do-in-cape-town\/\">What to do in Cape Town<\/a>, an exclusive guide to the best local experiences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"\/en\/south-africa\/travel-guide\/best-museums-cape-town\/\">Cape Town museums and the memory of Apartheid<\/a>, to better understand the history and soul of this fascinating city.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In conclusion: travelling safely in Cape Town<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cape Town is a city of emotions, contrasts and light, where beauty meets authenticity. With a few basic precautions and a well-informed approach, you will discover a vibrant and inspiring destination. And you will quickly understand why so many travellers choose to return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"\/en\/contact\/\">Contact South African Travellers<\/a> to design your tailor-made itinerary, and experience the magic of Cape Town in complete peace of mind.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wondering whether Cape Town is a safe city? Rest assured, the Mother City is far from intimidating when you explore it with the right approach. With its turquoise-edged beaches, sun-drenched vineyards and the majestic Table Mountain, this radiant city attracts travellers from around the globe. Safety in Cape Town comes down to information, preparation and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16335,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[721],"tags":[38,43,44,45],"post_type_filter":[451],"destination":[707],"thematic":[],"class_list":["post-8853","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health-safety-currency","tag-conseils-aux-voyageurs","tag-le-cap","tag-securite-au-cap","tag-securite-en-afrique-du-sud","post_type_filter-travel-tips","destination-south-africa"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8853","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8853"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8853\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22385,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8853\/revisions\/22385"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16335"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8853"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8853"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8853"},{"taxonomy":"post_type_filter","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_type_filter?post=8853"},{"taxonomy":"destination","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/destination?post=8853"},{"taxonomy":"thematic","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.satravellers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/thematic?post=8853"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}