Orientation briefing in South Africa

Some of the earliest human remains in the fossil record were found in South Africa. By about A.D. 500, Bantu-speaking groups began settling into what is now northeastern South Africa, displacing Khoisan-speaking groups to the southwest. Dutch traders landed at the southern tip of present-day South Africa in 1652 and established a stopover point on the spice route between the Netherlands and the Far East, founding the city of Cape Town. After the British seized the Cape of Good Hope area in 1806, many settlers of Dutch descent -- known then as "Boers," or farmers, but later called Afrikaners -- trekked north to found their own republics, Transvaal and Orange Free State. In the 1820s, several decades of wars began as the Zulus expanded their territory, moving out of what is today southeastern South Africa and clashing with other indigenous peoples and the growing European settlements. The discovery of diamonds (1867) and gold (1886) spurred mass immigration, predominantly from Europe.

The Zulu kingdom's territory was incorporated into the British Empire after the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879, and the Afrikaner republics were incorporated after their defeat in the Second South African War (1899-1902). Beginning in 1910, the British and the Afrikaners ruled together under the Union of South Africa, which left the British Commonwealth to become a fully self-governing republic in 1961 after a Whites-only referendum. In 1948, the National Party was voted into power and instituted a policy of apartheid -– billed as "separate development" of the races -- which favored the White minority and suppressed the Black majority and other non-White groups. The African National Congress (ANC) led the resistance to apartheid, and many top ANC leaders such as Nelson MANDELA spent decades in South Africa's prisons. Internal protests and insurgency, as well as boycotts from some Western nations and institutions, led to the regime's eventual willingness to unban the ANC and negotiate a peaceful transition to majority rule.

The first multi-racial elections in 1994 ushered in majority rule under an ANC-led government. South Africa has since struggled to address apartheid-era imbalances in wealth, housing, education, and health care under successive administrations. President Cyril RAMAPHOSA, who was reelected as the ANC leader in 2022, has made some progress in reigning in corruption. 

There are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa which can turn violent at short notice. Violence could affect participants and bystanders anywhere in the country. 

There has been an increase in xenophobic and anti-immigration marches and violence, primarily (but not exclusively) targeting African immigrants and those perceived to be African immigrants.

Exercise caution, avoid areas where protests, demonstrations or marches are taking place, especially in city centres and townships. Do not cross protester roadblocks. This could provoke a violent reaction. If you encounter a protest unexpectedly, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Follow the instructions of local authorities and security personnel. Monitor local and social media for updates, including local radio. Where possible stay on main roads. Be aware that GPS navigation may direct you through less secure areas.

Local government elections

Local government elections are scheduled in South Africa on 4 November 2026. There may be an increase in political activity, including rallies and demonstrations, around the election period.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. 

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Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in South Africa

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa.

The main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh, and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and could target public spaces and places visited by foreigners, such as:

• tourist sites
• shopping centres
• high profile events
• crowded places

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Israel and Palestine conflict

The current conflict in Israel and Palestine has led to heightened tensions around the world. Terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaida and Daesh, have called on their supporters to carry out terrorist attacks in response to the conflict. The conflict could also motivate individuals to carry out attacks. Terrorist attacks could target Jewish or Muslim communities, or the interests of Israel and its allies. Attacks could also be indiscriminate and happen without warning.

Political situation

There are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa which can turn violent at short notice. Violence could affect participants and bystanders anywhere in the country. 

There has been an increase in xenophobic and anti-immigration marches and violence, primarily (but not exclusively) targeting African immigrants and those perceived to be African immigrants.

Exercise caution, avoid areas where protests, demonstrations or marches are taking place, especially in city centres and townships. Do not cross protester roadblocks. This could provoke a violent reaction. If you encounter a protest unexpectedly, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Follow the instructions of local authorities and security personnel. Monitor local and social media for updates, including local radio. Where possible stay on main roads. Be aware that GPS navigation may direct you through less secure areas.

Crime

There is a high crime rate in South Africa, with incidents including:  

• violent muggings
• snatching jewellery and valuables
• carjacking
• ‘smash and grab’ attacks on vehicles
• house robbery
• rape and sexual assault
• murder

Crime locations 

Violent crime can take place anywhere, including in tourist destinations and transport hubs. Most violent crimes occur in townships, informal settlements, and other high-density areas, as well as in some city centres and isolated areas. The threat is higher when it is dark. 

There have been violent incidents involving tourists at popular tourist locations. There are usually security personnel in the main tourist areas who can assist tourists. However, policing and security is limited, so always be cautious. 

Avoid isolated beaches, picnic spots and local transport hubs. Do not walk alone in remote areas or on beaches when deserted, especially when it is dark. 

Protecting yourself and your belongings 

To protect your personal safety: 

• do not display valuables or leave them in your car
• take safe and reliable transport – see Public transport
• stay alert and be wary of people who approach you
• do not walk around after dark
• travel with friends if possible and make sure someone knows your plans
• only go to a township with a responsible and reliable tour guide
• consider removing expensive-looking jewellery
• be aware that resisting a robbery can lead to a violent response, including use of weapons, that can result in physical injury

Airport crime

Crime in and around airports includes robbery and theft of baggage and valuables. Criminals have followed people from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to their destinations and then robbed them, often at gunpoint.

You should:

• be careful in and around the airport
• use main roads to and from airports
• go through public areas quickly
• avoid isolated areas
• arrange for your hotel or tour operator to meet you if possible
• go to your connecting flight quickly if in transit
• consider vacuum-wrapping luggage
• keep valuables in your carry-on luggage
• avoid dropping off your rental car at night

Cape Town airport road attacks 

There has been an increase in violent crime and targeted attacks to and from Cape Town airport, including incidents involving visitors driving hired cars. See ‘vehicle crime’.

You should: 

• stay on the M3 and N2 (rather than the R300)
• stay on ‘airport approach road’ (exit 16 on the N2) rather than taking the Borcherd’s Quarry Road leading to Nyanga
• make a journey plan in advance and discuss it with a trusted local contact
• avoid following GPS navigation routes that take you away from main roads

Vehicle crime

Carjacking and robbery are common, particularly after dark and around traffic lights, junctions, petrol stations and driveways.

Thieves often break car windows and take valuables while cars are waiting at junctions.

Criminals sometimes force vehicles, including tourist buses, to stop so that they can rob passengers. Common tactics include throwing spikes (sometimes hidden in plastic bags), stones or glass in front of vehicles. If criminals target your vehicle, drive to a safe place, or as far as possible, if it is safe to do so.

Criminals may pose as police and use ‘blue lights’ on plain (often white) vehicles to stop motorists and steal the vehicle. If you are suspicious, do not stop and continue to a police station, petrol station or other place of safety to call the police.

Do not pick up strangers or stop to help apparently distressed motorists. Continue driving and report the incident to the police.

If you are involved in a carjacking, stay calm and surrender your valuables and your vehicle if asked. Do not resist as this could lead to a violent reaction.

To reduce your risk while driving:

• check your route for any hazards or disruptions before you set off
• use a GPS, but do not follow routes into less secure areas – generally smaller roads
• check whether car rental companies have any safety tips
• stay on main roads and park in well-lit areas
• avoid stopping for long periods
• always lock your car and physically check car doors. Criminals can interfere and block the car’s central locking system using car jamming technology
• keep your windows closed, especially at junctions
• keep valuables out of sight, ideally in the boot
• use ‘smash and grab’ film on windows – ask hire car firms for this
• make sure you can see the tarmac and the tyres of the car in front of you when you stop your vehicle, giving you space to escape if you need to

Criminal kidnap 

The risk of kidnap is increasing throughout South Africa. Criminals generally kidnap people for financial gain.  

In recent years, foreign nationals, including British nationals, have been kidnapped. British nationals can be seen as wealthier than locals and may be at particular risk of kidnap for financial gain. There have also been reports of young children being kidnapped from shops, shopping malls and beaches. Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

Express kidnappings are short-term, opportunistic abductions aimed at extracting cash from the victim. Victims may be held hostage for up to several days while criminals use stolen bank or credit cards. These often take place after dark.

To reduce your risk:

• avoid wearing expensive clothing or jewellery, particularly in public
• be vigilant, especially at night
• avoid predictable routines and isolated areas
• limit sharing personal information online
• use secure transport and keep car doors locked

Solo and women travellers 

Solo and women travellers have received unwanted attention and have been assaulted. Read our advice for ‘Solo and independent travel’ and ‘Advice for women travelling abroad’.

Fraud and scams

Be alert to the risk of scams, including through business or job opportunities, unauthorised taxi drivers, visa services or offers of romance and friendships, including on dating apps. Do not meet up with or send money to someone you do not know or have not met in person.

Card skimming and confidence scams are widespread. There has been an increase in cybercrime and internet scamming, such as online shopping.

If you use a visa agent, be wary of fraud. Always follow the correct visa application process through the Department of Home Affairs. Fraudsters often use embassy or other government details – check they are authentic before responding. Visa scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss.

Criminals may pose as officials for financial or personal gain. If in doubt, ask to see their ID and move into a safe, public and open space. Police officers must carry their appointment certificate. If you have any concerns, call:

• police on 10111
• emergency services on 112 (mobile only)

Nightlife and dating

Criminals use dating apps to rob, rape or sexually assault victims. Be cautious using dating apps and meet in well-lit, public places. Always tell friends or family your plans. 

Be wary when dealing with strangers who offer free drinks, rides or unexpected personal attention. There have been instances of drink spiking involving robbery and sexual assault with both male and female victims. If you think your drink has been spiked, seek immediate medical help and contact the police.

If you have been sexually assaulted, read our advice for survivors of rape and sexual assault in South Africa.

ATMs and money exchanges

Crime around ATMs and money exchanges is common. You should: 

• hide your PIN
• be wary of strangers offering to help or who try to lure you to an ATM
• only change large sums of money in banks or secure shopping malls, not in busy public areas – some people exchanging large amounts of cash have been followed and robbed.

Table Mountain National Park attacks 

There have been recent violent attacks and muggings against hikers and foreign tourists in Table Mountain National Park, including on Lion’s Head and Signal Hill. 

You should: 

• avoid quieter areas of the park, especially during early mornings and evenings
• stay on busy, marked trails
• go on popular days such as weekends
• hike in groups of 4 or more

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in South Africa, see information on driving abroad. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in South Africa for up 12 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, get the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) before you travel, or update to a photocard licence. 

If you become a permanent resident, exchange your UK licence for a South African licence within 12 months of getting your residency. See living in South Africa. 

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age. 

See Crime for advice on travel to and from the airport, vehicle crime and safety at border crossings. 

Air Travel

There have been travel delays and disruptions at airports due to power outages, refuelling disruptions and immigration queues. Allow for adequate time when travelling. Check the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) social media pages for the latest updates or download the app.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps

Scammers target people using taxis and ride-hailing apps in major cities, including at airports.   

Make sure you:   

• plan your journey before you travel and arrange transport in advance   

• use a licensed taxi or established ride-hailing service 

• book ride-hailing services through the official app and do not accept unsolicited offers from drivers who approach you 

• identify a place of safety until the vehicle arrives; do not wait in the street 

• check the vehicle registration and ID matches what is in the app before entering 

• do not display your phone or valuables 

• ask the driver to close rear windows and lock doors if you cannot do so yourself 

• check the e-hailing app for extra security features, and consider using them 

• if you use a taxi that is not booked through a ride-hailing app, use a licensed operator and agree the fare in advance or check the amount carefully before making a payment  

Be wary of unregulated drivers posing as taxi or ride-hailing app drivers, especially at airports. Use designated taxi or ride-hailing pick-up areas where available and avoid people touting for business inside or outside the terminal buildings.

Tensions between e-hailing app and metered taxi drivers have led to armed violence and fatalities, particularly around Gautrain stations and at airports. Strikes and protests by taxi app drivers take place, sometimes with attacks against drivers not seen to be participating. Passengers have also faced harassment or violence. E-hailing apps  generally warn about high-risk areas, but be cautious using these services. During strikes use alternative reliable private transportation. Plan your journey so that you can avoid busy areas such as taxi ranks and transport hubs.

Minibus Taxis follow informal drop off and pick up principles with poor road discipline. These are minimally regulated and standards of vehicle maintenance can vary. Altercations with other road users and erratic driving is common.

Driving rules and standards

Driving standards vary in South Africa. Fatal road accidents are common, particularly around weekends and major public holidays.

Drive cautiously and: 

• obey speed limits
• avoid unfamiliar areas and be extra vigilant at night
• keep fuel levels above half a tank to avoid running out

In most cases, speed limits are 120km/h for highways and 60km/h on major roads.

On highways, drivers overtake or undertake in any lane including the hard shoulder.

On single-lane roads, trucks and slower vehicles sometimes use the hard shoulder to allow faster vehicles to overtake.

At most intersections, including crossroads (4-way stops) and where traffic lights are out of service, the first vehicle to arrive generally has priority. Small roundabouts (called circles) are treated the same as a 4-way stop.

On larger roundabouts, you should give way to the right, although drivers often do not do this.

Road conditions

Road conditions are generally very good but some roads in remote areas are less well maintained and may have potholes.

If you are travelling to a lodge in a remote area, check road conditions with the lodge management as you may need a car with good ground clearance.

If you rent a car, save the emergency roadside assistance numbers. Download an offline map if you do not have access to a GPS.

Pedestrian safety  

Pedestrian deaths account for a high number of road deaths every year in South Africa. Pedestrians often cross or walk on major roads and highways. This can happen anywhere, and the risk is higher if you cross a road away from marked crossings (jaywalking). If possible, cross at a marked crossing when it’s safe to do so. 

Public transport

Transport with a greater risk of theft, violence and unreliable service includes: 

• minibus taxis
• Metrorail train services
• long-distance public train and coach services

Generally safer and more reliable transport includes: 

• Gautrain between Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport
• MyCiTi bus in Cape Town (central business district and Atlantic Seaboard)
• airport shuttle buses through internationally recognised hotels
• internationally recognised e-hailing apps where bookings are confirmed through the app
• researched private hire options

To reduce your risk: 

• do not walk to or from Gautrain stations after dark
• do not travel to townships by MyCiTi bus – there have been violent attacks in Khayelitsha

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Hiking and walking 

Do not take unnecessary risks when participating in outdoor activities and adventure tourism. Health and safety standards vary globally and may not be the same as in the UK.

Check with the local tourism office for safe and licenced operators and consider hiring a registered guide.

Where possible, insist on a receiving a safety briefing.

Table Mountain National Park

Table Mountain trails are strenuous, and mountain rescuers get regular calls to help hikers. Know your limits and research a route that matches  your fitness level. Plan your timing carefully; start early to avoid peak summer heat and finish before dark. Check SANPARKS for the latest guidance including hazards such as wildfires. Always check the availability of the cable car if you are planning to use it.  For emergencies, contact Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) on +27 21 937 0300.

See Crime for information on violent attacks in Table Mountain National Park.  

Kruger National Park

After a violent attack killed a tourist in the Kruger National Park, SANParks advise against using the Numbi gate. There have been protests and violent incidents on the R538 road leading to the gate. In May 2026, 2 local tourists were killed in a rare violent incident within the park and the suspects were arrested.

You can fly directly to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Many people also choose to take a private tour or drive overland themselves.

If you stay outside the park, contact your lodge in advance to find out if any disruptions will affect your trip. See SANParks news.

Addo Elephant Park

South African National Parks advise visitors travelling from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) to Addo Elephant Park to use the N2 via Colchester, rather than the R335 via Motherwell due to crime, including vehicle high jackings. Recommended routes can be found on the South African National Parks Website.

Swimming safety

Beach conditions and local safety measures vary. Every year, many people drown due to strong sea currents. Ask for a life jacket if you participate in water sports.

On beaches with no equipment or warning signs, speak to local people who know the conditions. If in doubt, do not enter the water.

On busier tourist beaches:  

• only swim between the red and yellow flags
• read the warning signs
• follow instructions from lifeguards

The South African National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has information about rip currents. 

In an emergency, call:

• 112 emergency services (mobile only)
• +27 87 094 9774 - NSRI emergency line

Seals and other marine animals can bite. Take care near seals when you are swimming or by the sea where they are found. Rabies has been detected in seals along the Cape Peninsula coastline. If you are bitten seek immediate medical attention and notify the authorities.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.  

Flooding

Heavy rainfall often causes widespread flooding. There is a year-round risk of flooding across South Africa. Always check weather reports and news for hazards before you start your journey. For alerts and forecasts, see the South African Weather Service. 

Wildfires

Wildfires can happen in rural and urban areas during hot and dry weather including Cape Town and in the Table Mountain National Park. Follow evacuation orders if requested. If you see a wildfire, move to a safe place away from vegetation and smoke. If you are inside a building or a car and judge it is safe to stay there, close all vents and windows.

Power cuts

In South Africa there have been local and nationwide power cuts caused by shortages and extreme weather. Whilst there has been a significant reduction in planned power cuts (‘loadshedding’), they can still happen and affect:

• private accommodation, including hotels and airbnbs
• availability of mobile phone networks and wifi
• shops
• banks and ATMs
• public lighting
• traffic lights
• security systems such as alarms and electric fencing
• petrol stations
• water

There may be higher risk of crime where security systems or public lighting do not work.

You should: 

• ask your accommodation provider how they manage planned power cuts
• check for planned cuts on the Eskom website or ‘loadshedding’ apps
• follow the advice of local authorities if there are water restrictions, including bans on drinking tap water

Preparing for power cuts

To prepare for long power cuts:

• write down emergency contact numbers
• plan how you’ll let relatives and friends know where you are
• carry a power bank with extra charging cables
• carry a torch or other portable lighting
• ensure you have enough medicine and first aid supplies
• find nearby safe places that may have back-up power such as hotels, hospitals and police stations, in case you need help
• read our advice If you are affected by a crisis abroad

Water shortages 

Across parts of South Africa, there have been water shortages. Follow the advice of local authorities if there are water restrictions in place.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry a copy of your passport photo page and the page with your visitors permit or residence permit for South Africa. South African officials may ask for ID and proof of residence at any time. Keep your passport in a hotel safe or another secure location. Do not carry it with you unless you need it for official identification.

Illegal drugs and cannabis laws 

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. Whilst the personal consumption of cannabis is considered legal, all other drug possession, use or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport is illegal.  

British nationals have been arrested for attempting to carry illegal drugs, including cocaine, cannabis and khat, to the UK. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.   

Airports in South Africa have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal. It is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. See our advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade any of its parts without a permit. Trading ivory or rhino horn is banned. Anyone caught buying or trafficking banned goods will be prosecuted.

Before you travel check that: 

• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 (from a mobile) or 10177 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

There may be other regional emergency numbers available, check locally.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for South Africa
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in South Africa, including:   

• malaria
• chikungunya
• cholera
• mpox

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of South Africa, including Johannesburg. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

HIV 

HIV is a risk in South Africa. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. There is more information on sexually transmitted infection risk and prevention for travellers on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

If you take regular medication, make sure you can get repeat prescriptions if needed. Most prescription medicines in the UK need a prescription (‘script’) from a doctor in South Africa. The doctor may ask you to get an electronic prescription from your medical practitioner in the UK. There are pharmacies across the country – some have medical practitioners on site who can write prescriptions.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.

Healthcare in South Africa

There is no healthcare agreement between the UK and South Africa.

Public medical care varies across South Africa. Standards of treatment and hygiene may not be the same as in the UK.

South Africa has a very high standard of private medical care. Private healthcare can be expensive, so make sure you have the right travel health insurance and funds to cover the cost of medical treatment abroad and repatriation if needed.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in South Africa.  

Rehabilitation centres for drug or alcohol addiction

Private rehabilitation centres are widely accessible to foreign visitors. You should read available guidance on rehabilitation, recovery and residential treatment in South Africa, if you are considering attending an inpatient treatment programme.

You should also:

• do extensive research beforehand
• choose a reputable facility that is registered with the South African Department of Social Development or the Western Cape’s Substance Use Disorder Service
• get the right visa for your stay
• get the right travel insurance, including medical cover suitable for a rehabilitation stay and your particular circumstances

Make plans in case: 

• you relapse abroad
• treatment is unsuccessful
• you need unplanned repatriation to the UK – this may need to include access to extra funds

TravelHealthPro has information on travelling abroad for treatment. 

International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers has information on the impact of travel and substance use. 

The British High Commission in Pretoria does not usually contact or visit people who have travelled specifically for medical treatment. 

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.