Getting around

• You do not need a permit to walk in any of our streets – do NOT fall victim to scammers seeking payment for entering public areas. 
• Do not walk in deserted or dark areas. Stay in a group and on lit paths/roadways. 
• Use a map to get around. 
• Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back. 
• The use of headphones may distract you from what’s happening around you. 
• Use accredited public transport options like e-hailing services, taxis, cabs or buses.

Personal safety and possessions

• Keep certified copies of all travel and valuable documents in a safe place. 
• Keep your possessions on you and in sight at all times. 
• Do not leave your valuables on restaurant tables. 
• Do not carry large sums of money and avoid counting it in the open. 
• Only use secure ATMs in public areas, like a shopping centre. 
• Do not allow anyone to take you to or help you at an ATM for any reason. 
• Do not leave your drinks unattended.
  

Safety tips for driving

Driving yourself? Remember to:

• Have your keys ready when going to your car. 
• Always lock your doors. 
• Park in well-lit areas at night. 
• Keep enough distance between you and the car in front of you, in case you need to change lanes or drive away in a hurry. 
• Do not give lifts to strangers. 
• Look around before entering your driveway. 
• Never open your window when approached by a stranger. 
• If you think you’re being followed, drive to the nearest police station. 
• Keep your valuables out of sight. 
• After you’ve parked your car, check that it is properly locked so that you don’t become a victim to thieves who use “remote jamming” devices.

Safety when booking online

As with any large city, there are instances of accommodation fraud where visitors are scammed into paying for accommodation online that is not available for rental. 

• Check with Cape Town Tourism if you are unsure if an online listing or website is legitimate. 
• Use our accommodation member listing to contact an accommodation partner directly.

Find out more about being safe when out and about in nature and in our streets.

Cape Town Tourism – visitor safety support

Cape Town Tourism’s Band-Aid team helps visitors who may be in distress during their stay in the city.

Should an incident occur, CTT Band-Aid can assist with:

• Replacement of lost documents. 
• Facilitating victim support counseling. 
  
• Emergency accommodation and transfers. 
• Laying a charge with the South African Police Service (SAPS). 
• Changing itineraries.
  

The 24/7 Band-Aid contact number is 021 487 6552. Visitors can also speak to City staff located at Cape Town International Airport, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and City Hall.

Contact Cape Town Tourism for more information.

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