Cape Town Safety Tips: Our Personal Experience and What You Need to Know for a Carefree Trip

The first time we went to Cape Town, we were worried about all the stories about safety. Of course, you hear all kinds of things about safety and we were fully prepared for the worst. But you know what? We never really felt unsafe. In fact, we were pleasantly surprised by how friendly and helpful everyone was. In hindsight, we were a bit scared. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't pay attention. We've heard enough stories from people who weren't so lucky, so a little vigilance doesn't hurt.

But just like in any big city, you have to use your common sense. Here are our 10 personal safety tips for a carefree trip to Cape Town (so you don't have to stress like we did).

1. Stay aware of your surroundings

Tourist areas like the V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay feel very safe and usually are. But always be a little bit alert. For example, we never walk down the street with our phone casually in hand or walk around with our expensive AirPods in public. Not because we are paranoid, but simply because it is asking for trouble.

2. Travel Insurance = No Unnecessary Luxury

If you don't have travel insurance yet, get it now. Really. Medical care in South Africa is of great quality, but you don't want to get the bill without insurance. Good insurance is also worth its weight in gold for theft or other unexpected situations. The easiest thing to do is of course to take out continuous travel insurance, then you never have to think about it.

3. Walk in the dark? No.

Cape Town is not a city where you just go for a walk in the evening. Just don't do it. Uber is really cheap, so save yourself the stress and arrange a ride. We take an Uber for a distance that we would normally walk in Europe, simply because it is the smartest choice here.

4. Driving in Cape Town: Keep Everything Locked & Be Alert at Traffic Lights

Renting a car is a great way to explore Cape Town and the surrounding area, but always be alert. Keep your windows rolled up and your doors locked when driving, especially in the city. Don’t pick up hitchhikers, even if you feel sorry for them – unfortunately, carjackings are sometimes staged this way.

You should be extra careful at traffic lights (or robots as they are called here). Robberies from stationary cars, also known as ‘smash-and-grabs’, do occasionally occur. This usually happens when you are waiting with an open window or your bag on the passenger seat. Tip: keep valuables out of sight and if you are driving in a less busy area, leave some extra space between you and the car in front of you so that you can manoeuvre out of the way if necessary.

5. Your Possessions Are Not a Showroom

You don't have to walk around like a walking shop window. Wear a crossbody bag (with a zipper, not an open tote bag) and put your phone and wallet away. Also don't wear (expensive) jewelry or watches. And if you have a rental car: don't leave anything in the car, not even an empty bag. Burglary can happen in a few seconds (see tip 4 above).

6. Know the Areas You Should and Shouldn't Be

There are parts of Cape Town where you simply shouldn’t walk around as a tourist, especially not without a local guide. The townships can be super interesting, but only go with an organized tour. And if you’re not sure if a neighborhood is safe? Just ask a local. People are happy to help you.

7. Watch out for Scams

This is true all over the world, but in Cape Town you also see them: people who offer you ‘help’ at an ATM, or someone who tries to sell you something very pushy. Just say ‘no’ politely but firmly and walk on.

8. Loadshedding: An Unfamiliar Surprise

Oh yeah, power outages are a thing here. Load shedding can mean the power goes out and with it the street lights, which is pretty inconvenient when you’re in an unfamiliar place. We always carry a charged power bank with us and make sure we don’t accidentally get stranded somewhere when everything is dark.

9. Keep in Touch with Family and Friends

Your mother (or your friends) probably like to know that you are still alive every now and then. Share your location via WhatsApp or Google Maps when you are out alone or going on a long hike. Not because your life is in danger, but just in case.

10. Enjoy, But Use Your Common Sense

Go out for a nice meal, visit a wine farm and enjoy the beaches. But just be a little smart. Don't drink too much if you don't know how to get home safely and trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right. Cape Town is a fantastic city and with a little bit of awareness you will 100% have a great time.

Do you have any questions or personal experiences about safety in Cape Town? Let us know! And be sure to check out the rest of Cape Town Essentials for even more handy insider tips.