With its unique blend of cultures, abundant wildlife, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes, South Africa is quickly establishing itself as a sought-after destination in the African tourism industry. Visitors are drawn to the country’s diverse offerings, from awe-inspiring natural wonders to the bustling energy of its urban centres. With so much to see and experience, it’s no surprise that South Africa has captured the hearts of travellers from around the globe.
South Africa, located at the southernmost tip of the African continent, is a country full of surprises. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from lively urban centers to flavorful cuisine.
Regrettably, South Africa’s global reputation is haunted by the prevalence of crime, which deters less adventurous tourists from considering the country as a destination.
The level of crime in the country is alarmingly high, with various forms of criminal activities such as corruption, homicide, sexual assault, and carjacking being prevalent.
It is crucial to have knowledge about the most perilous cities in South Africa before planning a visit.
Continue reading to discover more!
Top 10 Cities in South Africa That Pose a High Risk of Danger
10. Inanda
Ranked at number ten on the list is Inanda, a quaint township situated in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, located about 30 kilometers northwest of Durban.
According to a survey conducted by the Medical Research Council, a staggering 75% of men have confessed to committing acts of violence against women. Shockingly, half of the respondents admitted to having raped a woman multiple times. These findings are a grave reminder of the alarming prevalence of gender-based violence in society. It is our collective responsibility to take action and put an end to this pervasive issue.
According to the statistics, a staggering 73% of the men who committed rape admitted to doing so before the age of 20. This is a concerning trend that highlights the urgent need for education and intervention programs aimed at preventing sexual violence and promoting healthy relationships. It is crucial to address this issue and work towards creating a safe and respectful society for everyone.
In the previous year, the city had the highest number of reported rape cases in the country, with a total of 297.
9. Plessislaer
Over the past year, Plessislaer, which is located near Pietermaritzburg, has experienced an alarming increase in its homicide rate. The number of such cases has surged from 43 to 73, making it a major cause for concern in the area.
It is alarming to note that although the number is lower compared to other cities in South Africa, the fact that it nearly doubled within a year is a cause for concern.
It is a sad reality that incidents of rape and assault are rampant in the city, particularly in the area of Plessislaer. It would be best to steer clear of this area if at all possible.
8. Umlazi
Situated in the southwestern region of Durban, Umlazi holds the position of being the fourth-largest township in South Africa.
If you happen to be a woman, it may be wise to reconsider your plans to visit Umlazi.
Last year, the city had a staggering 293 cases of rape, placing it among the top regions in the nation for this heinous crime.
Furthermore, the city has a reputation for being plagued with corruption and poverty. It is advisable to steer clear of the area unless accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.
In conclusion, Umlazi doesn’t offer a lot of tourist attractions or cultural landmarks worth visiting. Therefore, there isn’t a compelling reason to make a trip to this location solely for sightseeing purposes.
7. Rustenburg
In Rustenburg, political tensions often escalate to the level of violence that spills out onto the streets.
Everyday incidents of car hijackings and kidnappings are becoming more common, and unfortunately, so are homicides, rapes, and assaults.
Visiting Rustenburg requires a high level of caution, as even with the best of intentions, you may still fall prey to a violent crime. Therefore, it’s essential to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety during your stay.
6. Cape Town
Cape Town is undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its stunning vistas of Table Bay and the majestic Table Mountain standing tall in the background. The city’s picturesque setting makes it a feast for the eyes and a joy to explore.
With over three million tourists visiting annually, it’s no surprise that Johannesburg is South Africa’s most popular city and capital.
The urban charm of the city perfectly blends with the mesmerizing natural beauty that surrounds it.
Regrettably, Cape Town is also home to the highest murder rate in South Africa.
According to the statistics, the safety rate in this area is only 26.22, which means that the risk of becoming a victim of a crime cannot be completely ruled out, although it is comparatively lower than other places on the list. The total crime rate stands at 73.78, which should be taken into consideration while making a decision about safety.
Corruption amongst government officials and police is considered the most abhorrent crime in Cape Town.
5. Port Elizabeth
Located on the shores of Algoa Bay, within the Eastern Cape Province, Port Elizabeth is a notable port city renowned for its picturesque beaches.
As visitors stroll through the Old Hill neighbourhood, they are taken on a journey through time with the Donkin Heritage Trail. The charming Victorian landmarks that line the streets are a testament to the rich history of the area, and visitors can’t help but be captivated by the unique architecture and intricate details of these iconic buildings.
Venturing out on coastal boat tours presents a wonderful opportunity to observe majestic whales and rare seabirds in their natural habitat. Additionally, animal reserves offer a chance to witness large game, such as rhinos and elephants, up close and personal.
Regrettably, despite its attractive name, Port Elizabeth is plagued with crime, boasting an alarming overall crime rate of 75.92 and a safety index of 24.08. As a traveler, it is important to exercise caution when visiting this location.
4. Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg, the capital of KwaZulu-Natal province, is renowned as the City of Flowers. This is because of the abundance of rose beds and azaleas that can be found in the National Botanical Gardens and other public areas. Despite being a land-locked city, Pietermaritzburg is a charming destination worth visiting.
Pietermaritzburg is renowned for hosting the Dusi Marathon and Comrades sporting events, which attracts athletes from around the world. Additionally, the city is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Regrettably, the urban landscape is not entirely idyllic and pleasant, primarily due to its high crime index of 79.73 and a safety rating of 20.27.
Pietermaritzburg poses a significant risk of scams, attacks, and muggings for both locals and tourists. The danger extends to both private and public transportation, making it a perilous option for commuting.
3. Johannesburg
Johannesburg, or Jo’burg, started off as a small mining town, but has now transformed into the economic hub of South Africa and a thriving global city.
Has it earned a notorious reputation for its struggles with apartheid and townships, or is it not as unsafe as people tend to believe?
Located in the affluent Gauteng Province, Johannesburg proudly boasts the title of being the largest city in the country.
Despite the fact that the city has numerous downtown slums and pervasive political corruption, it is crucial to remain vigilant when traveling to the area.
According to the latest crime index, Johannesburg has a score of 80.65 and a safety rating of 19.35, making it the third city on the list.
In Johannesburg, there are often instances of political and racial violence, drug-related crimes, and poverty. These issues are prevalent due to the significant gaps in wealth between different parts of the city.
2. Durban
Durban is situated on the eastern coastline of South Africa and boasts one of the largest seaports in the country. Furthermore, the city is experiencing rapid growth in tourism, making it an increasingly popular destination for visitors.
Durban, the third largest city in the country, boasts of the stunning “Golden Mile”, a surfer’s paradise that stretches along the Indian Ocean.
The region is widely recognized for its multifaceted blend of cultures, encompassing the rich Zulu heritage, a vibrant Indian culinary landscape, and a noteworthy colonial past.
Durban may offer a familiar sense of comfort, but safety is a concern in this city.
According to recent statistics, Durban ranks as the second most perilous city in South Africa. The crime index stands at 80.84, while the safety index is a mere 19.16.
Touristy areas may have a heavy police presence, but incidents of robberies, harassment, and petty crime are still prevalent.
1. Pretoria.
At the top of the list for the top 10 most dangerous cities in South Africa is Pretoria, which also happens to be the seat of the executive branch of government.
Located just an hour away from Johannesburg by car, the city serves as a vital hub for both industrial and rail activities.
Even though there are 35% of city residents who fall under the poverty line, this percentage is comparatively low when compared to other African countries. In fact, there are many affluent suburbs within the city as well.
With a safety rating of only 18.06, Pretoria has a staggering crime index of 81.94.
Armed robberies and government corruption are the two most prevalent criminal activities.
Pretoria is ranked as the second most unsafe city globally, after Caracas, Venezuela.
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