Police
10111
Ambulance
10177
Tourist Police
10111
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
Airport Pick-up Scam
Scammers impersonate legitimate taxi or shuttle drivers at the airport, often with fake name tags or signs. They approach arriving tourists and offer a ride to their destination, but then overcharge them with exorbitant fares or take them to an unsafe location to be robbed.
Pre-book your airport transfer with a reputable company and confirm the driver's identity and booking details before getting into the vehicle. Do not accept unsolicited offers for rides.
Fake Tourist Police
Criminals pose as 'tourist police' and approach tourists, often at popular attractions or transport hubs. They may demand to see your passport or other documents, and then invent a problem or fine that you must pay on the spot. In some cases, they may try to search your belongings and steal your valuables.
Be aware that there is no official 'tourist police' in South Africa. If approached, ask for official identification and offer to go to the nearest police station to resolve any issues. Do not hand over your documents or money on the street.
ATM Skimming and Robbery
Scammers install card skimming devices and hidden cameras on ATMs to steal your card information and PIN. They may also work in teams, with one person distracting you while another skims your card or robs you after you've withdrawn cash.
Only use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations like inside a bank or a major shopping mall. Shield the keypad when entering your PIN and be aware of your surroundings. If an ATM looks tampered with, do not use it.
The 'Friendly Local' Distraction
A seemingly friendly local strikes up a conversation with you, asking where you're from and offering advice. While you are distracted, an accomplice will pickpocket you or snatch your bag.
Be cautious of overly friendly strangers who approach you in busy areas. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Overcharging Taxi Scam
Taxi drivers, particularly those who are not from reputable companies, may take a longer route to your destination to increase the fare, or they may not use the meter and then demand an inflated price at the end of the ride.
Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt. Always insist on using the meter, or agree on a fare before you start the journey.
Drink Spiking in Bars and Clubs
Perpetrators spike drinks with drugs in bars and nightclubs with the intention of robbing or sexually assaulting the victim once they are incapacitated.
Never leave your drink unattended and do not accept drinks from strangers. Be wary of anyone who seems overly friendly or persistent in offering you a drink.
Fake Accommodation Listings
Scammers create fake online listings for apartments or holiday homes, often with attractive pictures and low prices. They will ask for a deposit or full payment upfront, but the accommodation either doesn't exist or is not as advertised.
Only book accommodation through reputable websites and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Check reviews and use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection.
Roadside 'Bump and Rob'
Criminals will deliberately cause a minor car accident, and when you get out of your car to assess the damage, they will rob you of your valuables.
If you are involved in a minor car accident in a quiet or unsafe area, remain in your car with the doors locked and signal to the other driver to follow you to the nearest police station or a busy public place.
MTN Taxi Rank 'Direction Fee'
At the chaotic MTN Taxi Rank, scammers will demand a 'fee' for giving you directions. This can be an intimidating experience for tourists who are unfamiliar with the area.
Avoid asking for directions at the MTN Taxi Rank. Plan your route in advance or use a reliable navigation app on your phone.
Unofficial 'Guides' at Tourist Sites
Individuals will pose as official guides at tourist attractions and offer to give you a tour. They may then lead you to a secluded area where they or their accomplices will rob you.
Only use official, licensed tour guides. Book tours through reputable companies or the official ticket office of the attraction.
Safe Attractions
Apartheid Museum
Museum illustrating the rise and fall of apartheid.
Gold Reef City
Amusement park and casino located on an old gold mine.
Constitution Hill
Former prison complex, now a museum and home to the Constitutional Court.
Soweto
Township with historic sites like Mandela House.
Lion & Safari Park
Conservation enclosure for lions and other animals.