1. General Personal Safety & Security

Stay aware, not alarmed – Crime in South Africa is largely opportunistic. Avoid flashing valuables (jewellery, cameras, large amounts of cash).

ATMs – Use those inside shopping malls or banks during daylight hours. Never accept help from strangers at ATMs.

Walking – In cities, stick to busy, well-lit areas. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in quiet suburbs or downtown areas of major cities.

Transport – Use Uber, Bolt, or reputable taxi services (your hotel or Prestige Cape Tours can recommend). Avoid unmarked minibus taxis at night.

Car guards – Informal parking attendants in blue/orange vests are common. A small tip (R5–R20) is customary.

Valuables in vehicles – Never leave anything visible inside a parked car, even for a few minutes.

Hiking & beaches – Only hike well-known trails in groups and tell someone your plans. On popular beaches, don’t leave bags unattended.

3. Driving in South Africa

We drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Seatbelts are compulsory. Using a phone while driving (except hands-free) is illegal.

Speed limits: 60 km/h in urban areas, 100–120 km/h on highways.

Have your driver’s licence (international licence recommended) and car rental documents with you at all times.

4. Health & Sun Protection

African sun is fierce – Even on cloudy days, UV levels are very high. → Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen, reapply every 2 hours. → Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and light long-sleeve clothing, especially 10h00–16h00.

Hydration – Drink plenty of water (tap water is safe in most cities and towns).

Malaria – Low risk in Cape Town, Garden Route, and most of the Western Cape (malaria-free). → Malaria risk exists in Kruger National Park, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, northern KwaZulu-Natal (Oct–May peak). → Take prophylactics if prescribed, use DEET-based insect repellent, sleep under nets or in air-conditioned rooms, and wear long sleeves/pants from dusk.

5. Snakes & Wildlife

Venomous snakes (boomslang, cape cobra, puff adder, etc.) exist but encounters are rare. → Wear closed shoes and long trousers when hiking in bushveld or fynbos. → Never put hands under rocks or into holes. Walk on paths. → If you see a snake – freeze, then slowly back away. Do NOT try to kill it. → In case of bite: Stay calm, immobilise the limb, get to hospital immediately – do NOT apply tourniquets or try to suck venom.

6. Western Cape Weather – “Four Seasons in One Day”

Especially around Cape Town and the Winelands:

Pack layers! Mornings can be cold and windy, midday hot, and evenings chilly again.

A light waterproof/windproof jacket is essential.

Mountain weather changes fast – if hiking Table Mountain or the Cederberg, check forecasts and take warm clothing even in summer.

7. Ocean Safety

Swim only at beaches with lifeguards and between the flags.

Rip currents are common – if caught, swim parallel to the shore, not against the current.

Shark spotters operate on the Cape Peninsula; obey their flags and sirens.

Enjoy every moment of your South African adventure! If you have any concerns or need advice during your stay, Prestige Cape Tours is only a phone call or WhatsApp away.

Safe travels and welcome to Mzansi! 🌍🦒🍷