Cape Town is a modern cosmopolitan city that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. The Mother City is generally safe, however, travellers are urged to exercise basic safety precautions when visiting.
Here are some tips to remember when travelling to the city:
Valuables
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash or devices like cameras in plain sight.
- Never leave your belongings unattended.
- Never allow strangers to assist you at ATMs or cash points.
- Please be mindful of street children and beggars who may approach you for a handout. If you wish to help, consider offering food, donate to a registered charity, or contact Cape Town Tourism for advice.
- Keep copies of all valuable documents in a safe place.
Exploring
- Avoid walking in deserted and dark places at night.
- Park in a secure, well-lit area with street guards.
- Always tell someone where you are going and communicate your whereabouts regularly.
Tour Guides
- The Western Cape has many accredited and well-trained tour guides.
For more information and help in selecting a tour guide, visit https://www.ctga.org.za/.
Hiking
- When exploring Table Mountain National Park and other hiking routes in Cape Town, always take a map, food and water, sunblock, and a charged mobile phone.
- You should always wear comfortable shoes.
- Hike in groups and not solo.
- Prepare for the weather. The weather in Cape Town can change rapidly, even in summer.
Carry something warm like a jacket or sweater. - Never venture on hikes when it’s dark or venture away from the demarcated paths.
Tell a friend or your host where you are going and when you expect to be back. - Load the Table Mountain National Park emergency number +27(0)861 106 417 into your mobile phone before departing on a hike.
Emergency Contact Numbers
Before heading out into the city, save all emergency contact numbers on your mobile phone.
You’ll find a list of all the numbers you may need in an emergency here.
