No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in South Africa set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the South African High Commission in the UK.
\n\nYour passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 30 days after the date you leave South Africa and have at least 2 blank pages.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nIf you are a South African citizen aged 18 or over, you must use a South African passport to enter and exit South Africa. It is illegal to use another country’s passport. See the South African Department of Home Affairs for further information.
\n\nYou can visit South Africa without a visa for up to 90 days for business or tourism.
\n\nCheck the expiry date of your visa or entry stamp and ensure you do not overstay.
\n\nFor more information on visas, contact the South African High Commission.
\n\nThe Department of Home Affairs also has information on South Africa visas and immigration regulations.
\n\nThere are special requirements for travelling to South Africa with children aged 17 and under, and for unaccompanied children entering South Africa. The South African Department of Home Affairs has more information.
\n\nTo enter South Africa, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s South Africa guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of South Africa. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nFrom 1 July 2026, all travellers entering or leaving South Africa through air, land, sea and rail ports of entry are required to submit an online traveller declaration before travelling.
\n\nWhen you enter South Africa, you must declare cash if you are bringing:
\n\nmore than 25,000 South African rand per person
\nother currencies worth more than 10,000 US dollars combined
\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa.
\nThe main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh, and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks.
\n\nAttacks could be indiscriminate and could target public spaces and places visited by foreigners, such as:
\n\nStay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nThe current conflict in Israel and Palestine has led to heightened tensions around the world. Terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaida and Daesh, have called on their supporters to carry out terrorist attacks in response to the conflict. The conflict could also motivate individuals to carry out attacks. Terrorist attacks could target Jewish or Muslim communities, or the interests of Israel and its allies. Attacks could also be indiscriminate and happen without warning.
\n\nThere are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa which can turn violent at short notice. Violence could affect participants and bystanders anywhere in the country.
\n\nThere has been an increase in xenophobic and anti-immigration marches and violence, primarily (but not exclusively) targeting African immigrants and those perceived to be African immigrants.
\n\nExercise caution, avoid areas where protests, demonstrations or marches are taking place, especially in city centres and townships. Do not cross protester roadblocks. This could provoke a violent reaction. If you encounter a protest unexpectedly, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Follow the instructions of local authorities and security personnel. Monitor local and social media for updates, including local radio. Where possible stay on main roads. Be aware that GPS navigation may direct you through less secure areas.
\n\nThere is a high crime rate in South Africa, with incidents including:
\n\nViolent crime can take place anywhere, including in tourist destinations and transport hubs. Most violent crimes occur in townships, informal settlements, and other high-density areas, as well as in some city centres and isolated areas. The threat is higher when it is dark.
\n\nThere have been violent incidents involving tourists at popular tourist locations. There are usually security personnel in the main tourist areas who can assist tourists. However, policing and security is limited, so always be cautious.
\n\nAvoid isolated beaches, picnic spots and local transport hubs. Do not walk alone in remote areas or on beaches when deserted, especially when it is dark.
\n\nTo protect your personal safety:
\n\nCrime in and around airports includes robbery and theft of baggage and valuables. Criminals have followed people from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to their destinations and then robbed them, often at gunpoint.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nThere has been an increase in violent crime and targeted attacks to and from Cape Town airport, including incidents involving visitors driving hired cars. See ‘vehicle crime’.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nCarjacking and robbery are common, particularly after dark and around traffic lights, junctions, petrol stations and driveways.
\n\nThieves often break car windows and take valuables while cars are waiting at junctions.
\n\nCriminals sometimes force vehicles, including tourist buses, to stop so that they can rob passengers. Common tactics include throwing spikes (sometimes hidden in plastic bags), stones or glass in front of vehicles. If criminals target your vehicle, drive to a safe place, or as far as possible, if it is safe to do so.
\n\nCriminals may pose as police and use ‘blue lights’ on plain (often white) vehicles to stop motorists and steal the vehicle. If you are suspicious, do not stop and continue to a police station, petrol station or other place of safety to call the police.
\n\nDo not pick up strangers or stop to help apparently distressed motorists. Continue driving and report the incident to the police.
\n\nIf you are involved in a carjacking, stay calm and surrender your valuables and your vehicle if asked. Do not resist as this could lead to a violent reaction.
\n\nTo reduce your risk while driving:
\n\nThe risk of kidnap is increasing throughout South Africa. Criminals generally kidnap people for financial gain.
\n\nIn recent years, foreign nationals, including British nationals, have been kidnapped. British nationals can be seen as wealthier than locals and may be at particular risk of kidnap for financial gain. There have also been reports of young children being kidnapped from shops, shopping malls and beaches. Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.
\n\nExpress kidnappings are short-term, opportunistic abductions aimed at extracting cash from the victim. Victims may be held hostage for up to several days while criminals use stolen bank or credit cards. These often take place after dark.
\n\nTo reduce your risk:
\n\nSolo and women travellers have received unwanted attention and have been assaulted. Read our advice for ‘Solo and independent travel’ and ‘Advice for women travelling abroad’.
\n\nBe alert to the risk of scams, including through business or job opportunities, visa services or offers of romance and friendships, including on dating apps. Do not meet up with or send money to someone you do not know or have not met in person.
\n\nCard skimming and confidence scams are widespread. There has been an increase in cybercrime and internet scamming, such as online shopping.
\n\nIf you use a visa agent, be wary of fraud. Always follow the correct visa application process through the Department of Home Affairs. Fraudsters often use embassy or other government details – check they are authentic before responding. Visa scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss.
\n\nCriminals may pose as officials for financial or personal gain. If in doubt, ask to see their ID and move into a safe, public and open space. Police officers must carry their appointment certificate. If you have any concerns, call:
\n\nCriminals use dating apps to rob, rape or sexually assault victims. Be cautious using dating apps and meet in well-lit, public places. Always tell friends or family your plans.
\n\nBe wary when dealing with strangers who offer free drinks, rides or unexpected personal attention. There have been instances of drink spiking involving robbery and sexual assault with both male and female victims. If you think your drink has been spiked, seek immediate medical help and contact the police.
\n\nIf you have been sexually assaulted, read our advice for survivors of rape and sexual assault in South Africa.
\n\nCrime around ATMs and money exchanges is common. You should:
\n\nThere have been recent violent attacks and muggings against hikers and foreign tourists in Table Mountain National Park, including on Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in South Africa, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in South Africa for up 12 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, get the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) before you travel, or update to a photocard licence.
\n\nIf you become a permanent resident, exchange your UK licence for a South African licence within 12 months of getting your residency. See living in South Africa.
\n\nHire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age.
\n\nSee Crime for advice on travel to and from the airport, vehicle crime and safety at border crossings.
\n\nThere have been travel delays and disruptions at airports due to power outages, refuelling disruptions and immigration queues. Allow for adequate time when travelling. Check the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) social media pages for the latest updates or download the app.
\n\nScammers target people using e-hailing taxi apps in major cities.
\n\nMake sure you:
\n\nBe wary of unregulated drivers posing as Uber or other taxi app drivers, especially at airports. If you book a taxi, wait in a designated taxi pick-up area, if there is one.
\n\nTensions between e-hailing app and metered taxi drivers have led to armed violence and fatalities, particularly around Gautrain stations and at airports. Strikes and protests by taxi app drivers take place, sometimes with attacks against drivers not seen to be participating. Passengers have also faced harassment or violence. E-hailing apps generally warn about high-risk areas, but be cautious using these services. During strikes use alternative reliable private transportation. Plan your journey so that you can avoid busy areas such as taxi ranks and transport hubs.
\n\nMinibus Taxis follow informal drop off and pick up principles with poor road discipline. These are minimally regulated and standards of vehicle maintenance can vary. Altercations with other road users and erratic driving is common.
\n\nDriving standards vary in South Africa. Fatal road accidents are common, particularly around weekends and major public holidays.
\n\nDrive cautiously and:
\n\nIn most cases, speed limits are 120km/h for highways and 60km/h on major roads.
\n\nOn highways, drivers overtake or undertake in any lane including the hard shoulder.
\n\nOn single-lane roads, trucks and slower vehicles sometimes use the hard shoulder to allow faster vehicles to overtake.
\n\nAt most intersections, including crossroads (4-way stops) and where traffic lights are out of service, the first vehicle to arrive generally has priority. Small roundabouts (called circles) are treated the same as a 4-way stop.
\n\nOn larger roundabouts, you should give way to the right, although drivers often do not do this.
\n\nRoad conditions are generally very good but some roads in remote areas are less well maintained and may have potholes.
\n\nIf you are travelling to a lodge in a remote area, check road conditions with the lodge management as you may need a car with good ground clearance.
\n\nIf you rent a car, save the emergency roadside assistance numbers. Download an offline map if you do not have access to a GPS.
\n\nPedestrian deaths account for a high number of road deaths every year in South Africa. Pedestrians often cross or walk on major roads and highways. This can happen anywhere, and the risk is higher if you cross a road away from marked crossings (jaywalking). If possible, cross at a marked crossing when it’s safe to do so.
\n\nTransport with a greater risk of theft, violence and unreliable service includes:
\n\nGenerally safer and more reliable transport includes:
\n\nTo reduce your risk:
\n\nDo not take unnecessary risks when participating in outdoor activities and adventure tourism. Health and safety standards vary globally and may not be the same as in the UK.
\n\nCheck with the local tourism office for safe and licenced operators and consider hiring a registered guide.
\n\nWhere possible, insist on a receiving a safety briefing.
\n\nTable Mountain trails are strenuous, and mountain rescuers get regular calls to help hikers. Know your limits and research a route that matches your fitness level. Plan your timing carefully; start early to avoid peak summer heat and finish before dark. Check SANPARKS for the latest guidance including hazards such as wildfires. Always check the availability of the cable car if you are planning to use it. For emergencies, contact Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) on +27 21 937 0300.
\n\nSee Crime for information on violent attacks in Table Mountain National Park.
\n\nAfter a violent attack killed a tourist in the Kruger National Park, SANParks advise against using the Numbi gate. There have been protests and violent incidents on the R538 road leading to the gate. In May 2026, 2 local tourists were killed in a rare violent incident within the park and the suspects were arrested.
\n\nYou can fly directly to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Many people also choose to take a private tour or drive overland themselves.
\n\nIf you stay outside the park, contact your lodge in advance to find out if any disruptions will affect your trip. See SANParks news.
\n\nSouth African National Parks advise visitors travelling from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) to Addo Elephant Park to use the N2 via Colchester, rather than the R335 via Motherwell due to crime, including vehicle high jackings. Recommended routes can be found on the South African National Parks Website.
\n\nBeach conditions and local safety measures vary. Every year, many people drown due to strong sea currents. Ask for a life jacket if you participate in water sports.
\n\nOn beaches with no equipment or warning signs, speak to local people who know the conditions. If in doubt, do not enter the water.
\n\nOn busier tourist beaches:
\n\nThe South African National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has information about rip currents.
\n\nIn an emergency, call:
\n\nSeals and other marine animals can bite. Take care near seals when you are swimming or by the sea where they are found. Rabies has been detected in seals along the Cape Peninsula coastline. If you are bitten seek immediate medical attention and notify the authorities.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nHeavy rainfall often causes widespread flooding. There is a year-round risk of flooding across South Africa. Always check weather reports and news for hazards before you start your journey. For alerts and forecasts, see the South African Weather Service.
\n\nWildfires can happen in rural and urban areas during hot and dry weather including Cape Town and in the Table Mountain National Park. Follow evacuation orders if requested. If you see a wildfire, move to a safe place away from vegetation and smoke. If you are inside a building or a car and judge it is safe to stay there, close all vents and windows.
\n\nIn South Africa there have been local and nationwide power cuts caused by shortages and extreme weather. Whilst there has been a significant reduction in planned power cuts (‘loadshedding’), they can still happen and affect:
\n\nThere may be higher risk of crime where security systems or public lighting do not work.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nTo prepare for long power cuts:
\n\nAcross parts of South Africa, there have been water shortages. Follow the advice of local authorities if there are water restrictions in place.
\n\nAlways carry a copy of your passport photo page and the page with your visitors permit or residence permit for South Africa. South African officials may ask for ID and proof of residence at any time. Keep your passport in a hotel safe or another secure location. Do not carry it with you unless you need it for official identification.
\n\nIllegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. Whilst the personal consumption of cannabis is considered legal, all other drug possession, use or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport is illegal.
\n\nBritish nationals have been arrested for attempting to carry illegal drugs, including cocaine, cannabis and khat, to the UK. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.
\n\nAirports in South Africa have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
\n\nSame-sex sexual activity is legal. It is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. See our advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIt is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade any of its parts without a permit. Trading ivory or rhino horn is banned. Anyone caught buying or trafficking banned goods will be prosecuted.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nDial 112 (from a mobile) or 10177 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nThere may be other regional emergency numbers available, check locally.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in South Africa, including:
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of South Africa, including Johannesburg. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nHIV is a risk in South Africa. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. There is more information on sexually transmitted infection risk and prevention for travellers on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nIf you take regular medication, make sure you can get repeat prescriptions if needed. Most prescription medicines in the UK need a prescription (‘script’) from a doctor in South Africa. The doctor may ask you to get an electronic prescription from your medical practitioner in the UK. There are pharmacies across the country – some have medical practitioners on site who can write prescriptions.
\n\nTravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.
\n\nThere is no healthcare agreement between the UK and South Africa.
\n\nPublic medical care varies across South Africa. Standards of treatment and hygiene may not be the same as in the UK.
\n\nSouth Africa has a very high standard of private medical care. Private healthcare can be expensive, so make sure you have the right travel health insurance and funds to cover the cost of medical treatment abroad and repatriation if needed.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in South Africa.
\n\nPrivate rehabilitation centres are widely accessible to foreign visitors. You should read available guidance on rehabilitation, recovery and residential treatment in South Africa, if you are considering attending an inpatient treatment programme.
\n\nYou should also:
\n\nMake plans in case:
\n\nTravelHealthPro has information on travelling abroad for treatment.
\n\nInternational Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers has information on the impact of travel and substance use.
\n\nThe British High Commission in Pretoria does not usually contact or visit people who have travelled specifically for medical treatment.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nAll emergencies from mobiles: 112
\n\nAmbulance and fire: 10177
\n\nPolice: 10111
\n\nNational Sea and Rescue Institute: 112 or +27 87 094 9774
\n\nWilderness Search and Rescue: +27 21 937 0300
\n\nThere may be other regional emergency numbers available, check locally.
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO provides guidance on how to help yourself stay safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nFind more support for British nationals abroad.
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in South Africa on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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