Is Cape Town safe?

You have heard all the superlatives surrounding Cape Town and South Africa, but one of the main question we’re often faced with; is it safe? 

As two foreigners who first came to Cape Town well over a decade ago, we feel well placed to discuss safety as a visitor and the negative stigma that unfortunately still often precedes The Rainbow Nation. 

We’re not trying to say that Cape Town is crime free and without it’s problems, but something we do find important is where you get your news from and who’s advice you take on board. 

One of the most frustrating things we have found is people commenting on the danger of Cape Town, who have never even stepped foot in South Africa- vaguely parroting the back end of a conversation they once overheard. 

Of course there are still daily issues that any holidaymaker visiting Cape Town has to be aware of and certain things we recommend you abide by. Like every country in the world, there are a few no go areas and you should always remain vigilant in alien surroundings. But as long as you keep your whits about you and apply a degree of common sense in your everyday activities, then safety won’t be a concern during your time in Cape Town. 

For some reason, negativity always seems to outweigh positivity and they’re usually the headlines people tend to remember. But during our time in South Africa, every single guest, friend or family member who we have shown around has been blown away by this incredible country and nearly all of them have returned in some capacity with safety not being an issue. 

With Conquer Cape Town you will be under the guidance of local experts during your stay in South Africa, who know exactly where to go, where not to go and when to go there. With the years of wisdom they’ve gained over time, all of our guides will gladly share any tips and advice during your trip with us. As well as that, all guests will have access to 24/7 emergency contact where necessary. 

There’s never a 100 percent guarantee with anywhere you go, but when you’ve booked the flight and find yourself strolling along one of Cape Towns famed beaches, with sand between your toes, a blue sky on the horizon and mountains for accompaniment- any safety concerns will be a fleeting memory. 

Top tips!

• Get to know your surroundings- It sounds simple, but familiarising yourself with the area your staying helps you in a number of ways. 
• When its dark, order an Uber- 5 minute Uber or 20 minute walk? Take the Uber. 
• Avoid known areas unless you’re with a tour guide- Long Street, the CBD and any townships should be avoided when alone. 
• Don’t draw attention to yourself- It’s hard not to look like a lost tourist when you first land somewhere new, but this coupled with a fancy watch or deliberating over an iPhone for directions is the equivalent of a wounded animal walking through a jungle. 
• Double check your route- Google maps is notorious for ‘finding a quicker route’ particularly from the airport. Some of these routes lead you through townships and undesirable areas, so always double check your route and if in doubt, stick to the main highways. 
• Don’t get complacent- Once you realise how safe South Africa really is, it’ll be easy to let your guard down, particularly after a drink! Chances are, that’s when you’d make the least informed decisions and be the most vulnerable.