Areas to Avoid in Cape Town
South Africa
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Cape Town. Which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Certain parts of the CBD at night
While the city center is vibrant during the day, some areas can become desolate and unsafe after dark, with a higher risk of petty crime and muggings.
Areas surrounding townships without a guide
Townships offer unique cultural insights, but exploring them independently can be risky due to socio-economic disparities and potential for crime; always opt for organized, reputable tours.
General Safety Tips for Cape Town
At Night
Stick to busy, well-lit areas like the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay promenade, or popular streets in Gardens. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas. Use ride-sharing services.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid displaying valuables. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Emergency Number
10111
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Cape Town
- 1The 'shortcut' scam: locals offering to guide you through a 'shortcut' which leads to a mugging.
- 2The 'broken taxi meter' scam: taxi drivers claiming their meter is broken and demanding an inflated fare.
- 3Pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded tourist areas.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
V&A Waterfront
A bustling, upscale harbor district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Extremely safe during the day and night due to high security presence.
Camps Bay
Chic beachfront suburb with a lively promenade, upscale restaurants, and stunning ocean views.
Generally safe, especially along the promenade during the day and early evening; be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone on deserted stretches at night.
Gardens
Trendy and bohemian area known for its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and vibrant street art.
Generally safe during the day, but exercise caution at night, especially on quieter streets; stick to well-lit, busy areas and be aware of your surroundings.
Bo-Kaap
Historic and colorful neighborhood known for its distinct Cape Malay culture and brightly painted houses.
Relatively safe during the day for exploring the main tourist paths; be mindful of your belongings and avoid venturing into less populated side streets, especially after dark.
Safety in Cape Town
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid displaying valuables. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to busy, well-lit areas like the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay promenade, or popular streets in Gardens. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas. Use ride-sharing services.
Emergency
10111
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'shortcut' scam: locals offering to guide you through a 'shortcut' which leads to a mugging.
- 2The 'broken taxi meter' scam: taxi drivers claiming their meter is broken and demanding an inflated fare.
- 3Pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded tourist areas.