Johannesburg can be safe for a solo woman, but it requires high situational awareness and strict adherence to safety rules due to significant crime risks; focus on secure areas like Sandton or Rosebank, use ride-shares (Uber/Bolt) instead of street taxis, avoid walking alone at night, and don't display valuables, treating the city as a place where vigilance, not vulnerability, is key for an otherwise enriching urban experience.
My advice is just be cautious. Don't go walking around the streets at night. Check your car when you lock it. Definitely do NOT drink and drive. The metro cops here are dodgy as, and always looking for a bribe. If they think you're from out of town they'll essentially try to extort you.
Safety in Johannesburg
The Australian government's Smart Traveller website recommends visitors exercise a high degree of caution in South Africa due to high crime levels. Violent crimes are common in South Africa.
I was told not to walk around at night. Especially in non lighted areas. TO STAY AWAY from city central unless I'm accompanied by a trustworthy person that knows the ropes, and if I need transport, to hire a car. This is far safer.
In South Africa, it's often considered disrespectful to throw away food. Therefore, order or serve only as much as you can eat. It is also impolite to speak disparagingly about local dishes. Even if something doesn't suit your taste, it's better to maintain a positive attitude and stay curious.
White rule in South Africa is a system of colonial settler domination, established and maintained by force.
Economic slowdown remains the primary concern in South Africa, with 78% of respondents having suffered a loss as a result. South Africa's growth has remained subdued in recent years and is only expected to reach around 1% in 2025.
Be aware of your surroundings Although most tourist areas are safe to visit, some neighborhoods in Johannesburg have notoriously high crime rates. To evade any incidents during your trip, avoid displaying cameras, cellphones and other high-value items when in public and travel with a companion or group at all times.
The safest suburbs in Johannesburg—Sandton, Rosebank, Melville, Greenside, and Parktown North—offer secure environments through community vigilance, private security, and strategic location advantages.
As you plan your travel to Sandton or Pretoria from Johannesburg Airport, remember that reliable taxi services offer a convenient and stress-free option. By choosing a reputable provider, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey to your destination.
7 Tips to Protect Your Identity While Traveling
Hillbrow
Hillbrow is one of Johannesburg's most infamous neighborhoods. Once a thriving cosmopolitan hub, the area has become associated with overcrowding, gang activity, and high levels of crime. Petty theft, drug-related crimes, and violent incidents are common here, making it an area to approach cautiously.
From unsafe intersections and broken pavements to poorly lit routes and car-first road design, Johannesburg's walkability crisis is costing lives, limiting economic opportunity and deepening inequality.
Violent crime is common and includes robbery, rape, carjacking and mugging. There are also "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles. Violent crime is more common in the downtown areas of big cities, especially after dark.
Unsurprisingly, most of Johannesburg's most expensive properties are situated in and around Sandton. Gauteng remains the province with the largest economy, contributing 34% to South Africa's GDP, with Sandton positioned as the corporate center of Southern Africa.
Cape Town has a strong tourism presence, with well-patrolled areas and amenities designed for visitor safety.
The formula is simple, pack: 5 tops. 4 bottoms. 3 pairs of shoes.
You'll likely be able to use your card in all larger stores, restaurants and businesses in South Africa. They're commonly used by locals, particularly debit cards. On top of this, the main reason to use cards is safety, since having large amounts of cash on you makes you an easy target for pickpockets.
Crime Rates
In terms of specific crimes, the homicide rate in Australia is around 1 per 100,000 people, while in South Africa, it is around 30 per 100,000 people.
South Africa
The country has suffered a high rate of violent crime, a primary stated reason for emigration. Other causes cited in the Newsweek report include attacks against white farmers, concern about being harmed by affirmative action programs, political instability, and worries about corruption.
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. Monitor local and social media for updates, including local radio.