South Africa has been named the "most dangerous country" in Africa based on crime levels, yet it continues to attract millions of tourists, including thousands from the UK.
According to the latest figures from Statista, South Africa topped the crime index for African nations in 2024 with a score of 74.8.
It was followed by Nigeria (66.7) and Angola (66.1), both of which also experience high crime levels. The ranking is based on overall crime rates, including violent incidents, organised crime, and safety concerns for residents and visitors.
Despite its reputation, South Africa remains a popular destination, welcoming nearly nine million international tourists in 2024. Official data shows that almost half a million of them were British.
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South Africa has high levels of violent crime, including robbery, carjacking, and assaults, and authorities have warned that foreigners can be targeted.
The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) advises caution, especially in major cities and tourist areas, warning that incidents can happen anywhere, including transport hubs, hotels, and even hiking trails.
The travel advice highlights concerns over crime hotspots such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, where visitors are urged to avoid walking alone at night, using unregulated taxi services, or displaying valuables in public.
The FCDO also warns of kidnap risks, particularly for wealthier individuals, and reports of "express kidnappings" - short-term abductions where victims are forced to withdraw money before being released.
There are also warnings about protests, which can turn violent with little notice. Demonstrations over political issues, service delivery, and economic conditions often result in roadblocks, property damage, and clashes with security forces.
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Airports and roads are common targets for criminals. In Johannesburg, some tourists have been followed from OR Tambo International Airport and robbed at their destination, sometimes at gunpoint. The FCDO advises travellers to arrange transport in advance and avoid stopping on quieter roads.
Carjackings are another major concern, with criminals using tactics such as throwing objects onto the road or impersonating police officers to stop vehicles. Visitors are advised to keep their car doors locked, avoid stopping at red lights in quieter areas, and use main roads where possible.
Even Table Mountain National Park, a popular hiking spot, has seen incidents of muggings and violent attacks, prompting authorities to urge tourists to hike in groups and stay on busy trails.
Despite the crime risks, South Africa remains one of the world's most spectacular travel destinations.
Tourists are drawn by its breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and world-class food and wine - all at relatively affordable prices compared to similar destinations.
One of its biggest attractions is its wildlife safaris, with visitors flocking to parks such as Kruger National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve to see the Big Five - lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos.
The country's coastline is another major draw, with beaches in Cape Town, the Garden Route, and KwaZulu-Natal offering golden sands and spectacular scenery.
Cape Town, one of the country’s most-visited cities, is home to Table Mountain, Robben Island, and Boulders Beach, where tourists can see a colony of African penguins.
The Cape Winelands, just a short drive away, offer some of the world's best wine-tasting experiences at a fraction of the price of other famous wine regions.
For those looking for adventure, South Africa has paragliding, hiking, whale watching, shark diving, and world-class golf courses.
It is also one of only two African countries recommended for self-drive holidays, according to travel agents, with scenic routes such as the Garden Route and Panorama Route offering incredible views. The second country is Namibia.
While crime is a serious concern, many visitors enjoy trouble-free trips by taking sensible precautions.
The UK government advises travellers to stay alert, avoid high-risk areas, and follow local safety advice.
For those willing to take the necessary precautions, South Africa remains one of the most stunning and diverse destinations in the world - and millions of tourists clearly believe it’s worth the risk.