Cape Town Safety Tips

I get asked this ALLLL the time — from when I first came as a solo backpacker in 2017 to now that I live here and plan dream trips for my lovely Adventurelust clients. The short answer is… YES, I do feel safe here!!! But there’s a little more to it than that.

After traveling to 55+ countries (most of them solo), I know safety is never guaranteed anywhere. Every place has its risks — especially if you’re not mindful — but that’s NO reason to miss out on a city as epic & magical as Cape Town ✨✨✨

Here’s what I do (and recommend) to minimize risks while living my best Cape Town life:

1. Don’t walk outside at night. Simple as that. When the sun goes down, get indoors.

2. Use Uber, not street taxis. It’s reliable, secure, and available everywhere in the city.

3. Have a local SIM card. Cell C, Vodacom, MTN, or an eSIM like Airalo — that way you can always order an Uber, use maps, or reach someone if needed.

4. Mind your belongings. Do a quick scan before pulling your phone out on the sidewalk. Don’t leave it on café tables within reach of passersby. Keep your bag in front of you, and never leave stuff unattended.

5. Read the vibes. If I’m walking and something feels sus, I cross the street, pop into a shop, or let them pass. Trust your gut.

6. Hike with a buddy. Yes, I’ve hiked Lion’s Head solo, but I stick near other hikers since it’s busy. For safety’s sake, buddy up when possible.

7. Choose your areas wisely. V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, and much of Sea Point are super safe to walk around. I personally wouldn’t walk solo in Woodstock, Long Street, or near the train station. Ask locals (or me!) about where’s safe to explore.

8. Keep valuables secure. Lock car doors even while driving, use well-lit and busy ATMs, and shield your PIN.

9. Solo female travelers: Stick with trusted accommodations, book reputable group tours, and read reviews. This goes a long way toward peace of mind.

10. LGBTQ+ travelers: You’ll feel comfortable in most of Cape Town (and South Africa’s major cities), which are proud supporters of diversity and equality.

At the end of the day, it’s about being smart, prepared, and aware — so you can focus on all the adventure and magic Cape Town has to offer.