Is South Africa safe to travel to? - 12 Tips for staying safe when you visit SA
If you’re planning a trip to South Africa, or if you’re in South Africa right now, but have some concerns about your safety while you travel, this one’s for you!
In this episode I share my 12 tips on how to stay safe and enjoy your time in South Africa, PLUS my bonus tour guide tip on using Live Location.
For those who are Marvel fans, you know what's coming at the end. ;-)
You can download the national South African and local emergency numbers here: www.helloadventure.co.za/sout...
Join me every month as I share my latest adventures, travel tips and favourite things to do and see along the Garden Route and the rest of South Africa.
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Disclaimer:
- I was not paid to promote any brand or business in this video.
- The tips and advice in this video are my own opinions and based on my own experience. I accept no responsibility or liability for any consequences that may occur from using or ignoring these tips.
- Nothing in this video is intended to offend anyone.
Thank you to the kind Mossel Bay locals who gave up their time to help me film this:
Kim Kritzinger (camera assistance, art direction and graphic design)
Daniel Krone (aka Tour Guide Dan) - Insta: / daniel_krone_
Caroline Pinto (from Caroline Pinto Photography) - / carolinepintophotography
Lo-Jeanne Siebert (from Aruvali Designs who also provided the designer handbags that the ladies are wearing while walking around) - www.aruvalidesigns.co.za
Amy Markus (The Legend Herself) - / amy.markus30
Anna (from Cork&Plunger) - Insta: / annamax._
Rick (aka Rick The Man from Cork&Plunger)
Thank you to The Cork and Plunger (corkandplunger.co.za) in Mossel Bay for allowing us to film at your location.
#safety #travel #southafrica #satourism #traveltips
I made this video to encourage you to visit this beautiful country that I call home. The aim is also to promote safety awareness for when you travel - anywhere in the world. So what are some of your travel safety tips for when you travel? :-)
Too bad your country is racist and unsafe for travel.
Nick VT awesome video thanks Nic!! Thousands of people travel in SA very happily and safe.
Hello no one can buy a sim card without an ID and proof of residents
My guests buy sim cards when they arrive in SA. The RICA rules are for South Africans.
@@cosmicerror2682 Racist? You wrong
Now I’m on second week in SA Cape Town solo. Most beautiful country, beaches. It’s like normal big city. Travelled thousands miles with rented car, not a single incident. Think about own country, would you go in odd poor places, no. Would you walk alone where no people in odd places also no. If you feel uncomfortable just turn around and don’t continue walking on same direction.
Hey Viktoras, I'm stoked that you are having a good time in South Africa.👌 Thanks for commenting and sharing your views and adventure. I wish you many more safe travels and I'm looking forward to seeing a video of your South African experience. ;-) Have an awesome day bru.
Thank you very much.. I guess you spotted all the key points for being safe & having fun @ the same time.. Thanks for sharing.
Thoroughly enjoyed this video. We are planning a visit to SA in 2022 from NZ and this necessary advice. It is a stunningly beautiful country!
Thanks you so much for your great guides tours about how to travels to South Africa in 2021!
I went to South Africa twice in the 1990s, driving around in rental cars often without booking accomodation ahead. Whenever possible, I tried to find the night's accomodation before sunset to avoid driving slowly and leaving the car in unknown areas after dark. Sunset is pretty brisk by European standards, so I usually tried to get it done by 5 pm.
I love the details. How you acknowledged male and female lifeguards. Most of your tips are just smart for any travelers. However it is reassuring to hear your perspective as a local. Thank you for your help. The music audio got a bit weird early on. As an aspiring KZheadr, I don't always hear the final product and rely on others to help.
Thank you for a great video which was as entertaining as it was informative!
I'm a foreigner who moved to South Africa and these are really great tips!
Hi
@@aishaumardatti3354 fine medam how about you medam?
Hi
Hi
Hw are you
I'm leaving next month to relocate to Johannesburg! Couldn't have found this at a better time! Thanks man🤙
Thanks for this video buddy. God bless you .. See you some day #travellingmantra
As a South African I agree with theses tips. Good job! :)
Thanks got the support Tristan and for watching.
And leave to Europe
THANKS 4 THIS. IT WAS NICE AND YOUR FOOTAGE IS GREAT.. I SUBSCRIBE
Thanks Shatimar!
Hi Nick, thanks for your video. I've got one question: is it also dangerous to go for a hike in the Garden Route National Parks like De Hoop, Robberg or Tsitsikama? I guess it will be much more difficult to find a group there.
Hi Daniel :-) Thanks for your question about hiking in the Garden Route National Parks. Those parks are generally considered safe for hiking, especially during the day and on well-maintained trails. You likely won't find it too difficult to find other hikers on popular routes, particularly in Tsitsikamma. Here are some tips for a safe and enjoyable hike: Let someone know your plans: Tell a friend or park ranger where you're going and when you expect to be back. Stick to marked trails: This helps you avoid getting lost and potential dangers. Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for wildlife, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions. Consider going with a group: It can be more fun and add an extra layer of safety, especially if you're not familiar with the area.
South Africa is just a remarkable country for tourists to visits many great cities around the country in 2021!
Thank you for the video. Do rental cars offer gps rentals and if so will it take us to Kruger Park from South Africa ? Also do Apple Maps or Google maps work ?
Thanks for useful tips to visit south africa
Supper helpful .. wish I watched this before I went
Thanks sir hoping to come home in Dec
Useful info thank you
Need these tips have been away from home for years
What a beautiful country! I’m quite surprised that SA looks a lot like New Zealand!
Lol, not at all
@@francoiswilliams I think he's mean about how cities look like.
Yep. Especially Western Cape.
That can NOT be further from the truth, I lived in New Zealand, in Roturoa !!!!
@@veronicalake4140 Yeah Rural South Africa is very rural like those of most African Nations out there.
Very nice editing skills 😍🤩
Thank you :) I'm learning as I go
I have been to South Africa 4 times in the last 2 years. I absolutely love SA. You can be safe as long as you know your environment. Yes there is crime but to be honest, I think a lot of the perception is based on rumor and the past. I have never had a problem (maybe it’s because I’m from NYC and we have similar issues and I prepare myself lol). As long as your streetwise, don’t wear expensive jewelry and Uber everywhere (or bolt), you should be fine. Thanks for the video !!
No, don't use bolt 😂
@@pmambongwe8640 well maybe not bolt 😂 Uber for sure!!
No SA is dangerous. Stop virtue signaling
2 ladies were brutally murder using uber in South Africa its not safe
@@Jp-do9ny and you millions of people enjoy life have a good time and live. I’m from NYC and people are hurt, robbed and killed daily. Please stop being a troll and live and let live !!
Great vid👍🏿
Thank you :)
Love these tips
I really want to visit. My gf is originally from cape town , if the local population is anything like her, it will be the most friendly and fun place on earth .
I was in Cape Town for work last year. Such a beautiful country..
Cape Town is a city not a country.
@@salvadordali5793 if the OP was in CPT to work perhaps they did some travelling whilst here and got to know SA as a country.
Very underrated! I live in south africa also lol
You inspired me bro I will soon be in SA NEXT YEAR
Awesome! I'm happy to hear that 😁 give me a shout when you do!
@@nickvt6414 Sure I will Your email please 👌
How was your travel?
hi, we are planning to do a road trip and will be driving from cape town and returning the car in joburg, Would like to get your thoughts if we should get these window curtains to prevent carjacking or will it make no difference?
good points boet, we are heading back to SA in a weeks time after not being able to travel for almost 3 years... Another point is locking your car. Ensure that the car is locked (using the remote) before walking away as there are signal jammers that are used and they then open your car and make off with your valuables. One method of hijacking is hijackers disguised as police, who then pull you over because you think it is the police and then they hijack you. For females, keep your handbag in your lap or at your feet, not hanging behind your chair or next to your chair Also, don't stop at red lights late at night...see if it's safe to drive through before going through the red light, and watch for traffic light cameras. I grew up in hillbrow, highlands north and yeoville, so I am pretty used to keeping an eye out and not advertising valuables
How about the citybuses ? Are they safe? and is there a certain you wouldnt recommend going out anymore in the evening?
Good question.
If possible, can you make a video about how to survive the Northern Cape, since there isn't enough I for about it.
Especially when you are a tourist, Locally or internationally
Call my btother when in upington, he was strongman champion3 years consecutively...
Nice & useful information
Thank very much for video. Plan to come in Feb 2024.
It's only a pleasure! I hope you had an awesome time in South Africa
I have been living here on and off for 5 years, and commute from Europe , and the States all the time... No issues at all!! It is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever seen. Just be "street smart" and you will be fine!!
Thank you Tom, I couldn't agree more!
Coming soon to sa is it corona safe 😁
i'm a foreigner who moved to south Africa and are really great tips
Hello, how should I reply when someone on the street says "Howzit," as they"ll know that I'm a foreigner if I reply with "okay, thanks," or "not bad," as we sometimes do in the UK? I'll be in Cape Town in just over 2 weeks' time.
This is a good video but I must say it scared me even more for some reason. Travelling in Europe you don’t need to worry about things as much unless you’re in touristy spot. Such a shame that such a beautiful place comes with so much stress, I can’t imagine living there. I’m sure you can get used to it but for me it’s hard to comprehend. I always found that all South Africans I met in UK are quite clever and quick thinking. Now I see why. Their brain must have worked overtime most of their lives.
Thanks for your honesty! I can understand how the video might make safety seem like a bigger concern than it really is. South Africa definitely has areas with higher crime rates, but there are also many places where you can relax and enjoy your visit. It's true, being situationally aware is important everywhere, but Europe also has its share of pickpockets and scams in tourist areas. South Africans are known for their resilience and resourcefulness, but hopefully, most of us don't spend all our lives on high alert! There's a lot of joy and beauty to be found here too. If you're ever considering visiting South Africa, do some research on specific destinations and safety tips. There are amazing experiences waiting for you!
I met several South Africans in Ireland when I lived there. One guy in particular, he worked as a waiter in a local hotel. A gentleman.
We’ve discovered that roaming works best
very beautiful place 🥰🥰
I think so too! :)
Is cape town safe?
right!! Seems pretty safe!! 🤨🤨
All great tips. South Africa is an absolutely safe place to travel, and like any other place it has its rules. You can be the tourist and just stick to the safe places or you can be the traveller, learn the rules, get to know the people, costumes and culture. Either way, you will have fun in SA. Of course, if you're easily scared, you can also enjoy the comfort of your sofa, maybe watch a documentary about South Africa on the TV :)
Howzit André, Thanks for the positive comment! And you are absolutely right South Africa is safe to travel and it's one of the best places to explore. I'm glad you had a great time while in South Africa and got to see some awesome places with your own eyes and not from your sofa. ;-) YEHAAAW!!! Lekker Bru!
I loved this video. I recently went to Morocco and absolutely loved it. I can't wait to go explore more of Africa someday! Keep up the good share! kzhead.info/tools/tgxBRtUyqnVk2AxAUZ9byQ.htmlabout
James I don't know any place in the world that's "absolutely safe". But many places are safe to travel to if you stick to the basic tips that I have in this video. You really are missing out if you don't visit SA... I had the same reservations about visiting Chile and Argentina, but I ended up having an amazing time!
@@nickvt6414 Lots of the USA and Europe are "absolutely safe". Let's be honest.
@@jl9480 not just women are getting murdered. tourists and even men. so even if you can protect yourself and aren't a woman it's unsafe
Where are you from dude? Your English is not completely a South African English accent. But I see you know well enough how to introduce South Africa and its risks . Thank you for the video. I liked your tips.😃🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦
thx
Hi! I'll be traveling to Johannesburg this October (God willing) but I'm not able to find a place to change my local currency to ZAR, are USD accepted? Also, how much should a Sim card and data plan cost?
Hello there. Hope you will have a wonderful time in South Africa. No USD is not accepted. You must change your money to Rands and it is strongly advised not to change it at the airport as the rates are very high there. So you will need some money to buy a sim card. Sim cards are very cheap as little as R2 so you just need a few silver coins. It's less than a dollar! And they can help you buy some data for your phone at the Cell shop depending on how much you want or need. But remember do not walk around with wards of money.i am not 100% sure but I think you can use your credit card and such and some places such as National Parks take USD but if you going to go "local" then I suggest you have Rands. I think you can change your money at your own bank in the USA. Perhaps you go to a travel agent and ask for more advise. Because I may be way off. 😁
Also I will recommend you watch "Little grey box" she tells you how to change your money and gives you many excellent tips because she has herself made a trip twice.
I'm going to sa w my school n I already have a sa simcard
Look like a local is a great tip and I live here😂 walk with confidence but don’t be alarmed. It’s not as terrifying as the media makes it seem. People will be always willing to help.
What is your tour guide company name?
Hi Nick. Do you recommend hiring private car service if funds permit over taking an Uber?
Hey Lucy! That's a great question. Uber is a fantastic option for getting around city centers in South Africa like Cape Town. It's convenient and often affordable for short trips. However, if you're looking to explore the outskirts or smaller towns, Uber availability can be limited, and rides might be more expensive. For exploring outside the major cities, renting a car might be a better option. It gives you more flexibility and control over your itinerary, especially in areas with limited public transportation. Here's a quick tip: Consider combining Uber for city rides with car rentals for exploring outlying areas. This can help you balance convenience and cost-effectiveness. Shout if you have anymore questions and have an awesome day!
I have been a week ago in SA and i can say its so beautiful country we went with a tour guide for 16 days. The only time when i did feel save was in cape town while we where in the parc. Allot of strange people walking around you also some where drunk. I would never run alone in cape town specially when ur a woman. For the rest people where nice and friendly.
Can a uk citizen work and travel in South Africa?
Hi am disabled and in a wheelchair and u given good tips which is great but and this is a big but would I be more vulnerable as I do have to carry med with me so would I be an easy target,my husband would be with me but would this be enough,wot areas would u recommend us to go to
Hi Lorraine and thank you for your comment.:-) Most places in South Africa are wheelchair friendly and it's unlikely that you will be targeted. As with anywhere you travel, you should stay aware of whats going on around you, where you are and don't look lost. South Africa is not as bad as everyone thinks it is. :-) I'm sure will have a lot of fun - keep me updated and l'm looking forward to hearing all about your South African Adventure. Plus, if you need any help booking places to stay or activities or just want some travel advise while you are here. Feel free contact me at any time and I'll be happy to help. :-)
@@nickvt6414 I'll be visiting SA in February with my son for a Medical Examination he is to sit .Can I have your contact number please in case I need any help
where did you move to
any safe resort kind of place for a first visit???
Zimbali Coastal Resort in the East coast or Kruger National Park in the north
@@londanintshangase thank you!!
I was there when I was 7 because my dad is from there and nothing bad happened
South Africa is one of the saves place to go
Lekker broer, waar bly jy
For all those saying crime is everywhere, I say, we're at number 3 in the world for most violent crimes. Even Brazil is nowhere near
It's too dangerous for me, basically every month I hear the news of my colleagues being robbed, we only go back and forth between the house and the office, and we don't dare to go anywhere
Which city in South Africa your in ?
@@andrewliang4112 JHB
@@toopylei saw a guy visit JHB on yt-did give me anxious vibes.plus he was very positive about the trip
Wow. Any country on the world has dangerous places and one needs to be street smart. Obviously some people hate SA for other reasons and might have had an incident happen to them.... don’t let the world tell you what to do, come see for yourself.
clean the dump up and then i'll think about it
@@johntallanger4036 yeah the hate from you don't come here ever
@@tfmkhonza5084 Can you at least make it safe for the people living there who dislike violence and crime?
@@johntallanger4036 so your Country is free crime nothing at all, and tell me where you from
@@johntallanger4036 just stay in Europe bro
Hi Nick...
Tip 13b…since your friend/tour guide has your live location, they will be able to direct the police to your dead location. Assuming of course that they don't steal your phone as well.
Love the creepy scetches, where the dude with the hoodie follow one of the girls, of which i really don´t know, how they should make you feel safe
The 3 times in my life I left stuff visible in my car, are the 3 times my windows got smashed. You can never let your guard down.
Sorry to hear that Coenraad. It's definitely not a good idea to leave visible things in your car - I don't do this anywhere in the world though.
I live in SA ,crime is too high 😭
I want to get very drunk in Joburg at night and wander random streets looking to pick fights. What would be my likelihood of survival? ;-)
Depends what skills you have? 🤣
What part of Joburg?
zero
I suggest you to watch john wick and practice before planing
How to stay safe in America
I was born there and now I forgot how South Africa was
Hlala ekhaya wenze u-R500 nsuku zonke bese uhola R5000 njalo ngeviki ngaphandle kokuthumela imali kunoma ngubani ngibuze kanjani
Learne some local language Afrikaans too. Look local brother. Lungile.?
*Very good advice, take it to hart *
Im a guy who travels to have fun not to feel like I'm acting in the movie behind the enemy line every time I decide to go trekking
Solo travailing I Wana meat I wowmn I've been talking to
I want to go to sa, but I'm not street smart ai
I gues for white Europeans and white Americans
Seems like a pretty dangerous place.
These tips making me anxious even more. In a way it says IT IS NOT SAVE here!!
How? He's basically telling you common sense tips.
Zayda Zay I live here. It is safe. As in any strange country, just be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
Woah looks like australia
Lol oh my, NOT ATALL
South Africa is like a developed Western Nation because other African Nations dont have a similar infrastructure like the SA People out there.
thx for the tips. now here are some for you. drink more water. use moisturizer on your face n invest in some chapstick. you'll thank me later.
O
"How should I prepare for my trip to South Africa?" Prepare by buying a ticket to somewhere else instead.
*I think since the natives took over, it has been falling apart.*
The fact that this video even had to be made is what worries me.
Then stay right there...go somewhere safe...like USA...enjoy
Another tip never wear ur bag behind u while u in a line people open ur bag and take stuff
Ik this for a fact cause I'm a citizen
It's a seriously dangerous place homie
Don't work at all in light
😅 funny . I lived here my whole and my only advice would be, rather choose another destination. The problem is not the beautifull landscapes, its the local people. Things just get worse every year. Thats why a lot of south africans choose to leave.
Unlucky 13 say away
Basically, just don't come to our ghetto's and u will be just fine😂💔 (This is a joke guys we really try to make things as easy as possible for u. Just focus on having fun and being respectful❤)
I gotta say it looks like Australia
You're trying to make theft sound cute?! "Finders Keepers? ZA never felt safe for me. I'd be in an OK area and 100m later it was pretty vile with rubbish piled up on the corners. The crime rates are through the roof and nice houses have what they call "burglar bars" and razor wire on them. Be wary of traveling to this country. There are so many other places on the planet where car-jacking does not exist and you won't just feel safe but will be safe.
Hey there, thanks for sharing your experience. South Africa is a country of contrasts, and safety can definitely vary depending on the location. It's understandable that the video you saw might have focused on certain aspects. While there are areas with higher crime rates, there are also many beautiful and safe neighborhoods throughout the country. The 'burglar bars' you mentioned are a reality in some places, but they're not everywhere. South Africa has so much to offer visitors - stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, vibrant culture, and friendly people. If you're ever considering a trip, I recommend doing some research on specific destinations that might be a good fit for you. Of course, safety is a priority when traveling anywhere, so being prepared is always a good idea. There are plenty of resources online with tips for staying safe in South Africa.
Lekker Mosselbaai
Dishonest. No mention of carjackings
Good old South Africa 😂
How to stay safe? Don’t go!
Is this still relevant after COVID?