Johannesburg Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Johannesburg.
Healthcare System
South Africa has a two-tiered healthcare system: a public sector that serves the majority of the population and a private sector that offers world-class medical care comparable to developed nations. Tourists typically use private healthcare facilities.
Hospitals
Top private hospitals include Netcare Milpark Hospital, Morningside Mediclinic, Sandton Mediclinic, and Life Fourways Hospital. These facilities accept international patients and most have 24-hour emergency departments. Costs are high but comparable to US healthcare prices.
Pharmacies
Clicks and Dis-Chem are major pharmacy chains with locations throughout the city, many open extended hours. Some branches operate 24 hours. Most common medications are available, though prescriptions from overseas may not be honored—consult a local doctor if needed. Bring adequate supplies of prescription medications.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is absolutely essential. Private healthcare is expensive, and you will be required to pay upfront or provide insurance guarantee before treatment. Ensure your policy includes emergency evacuation coverage.
Healthcare Tips
- Always carry your travel insurance details and emergency contact numbers
- Private hospitals may require payment guarantee before treatment; have a credit card with sufficient limit
- Bring copies of prescriptions and generic names of medications in case you need refills
- Consider registering with the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT) for access to vetted doctors
- Tap water in Johannesburg is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if preferred
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Armed robberies, muggings, and carjackings occur throughout Johannesburg, including in affluent areas. Criminals may be armed and can be violent. Smash-and-grab attacks on vehicles at traffic lights are common.
Carjackings are a serious concern in Johannesburg, often occurring at driveways, traffic lights, or when drivers are distracted. Criminals may use various tactics including bumping vehicles or posing as officials.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft of unattended items are common in crowded areas, markets, and tourist attractions. Thieves often work in groups to distract victims.
Criminals may follow victims from banks or ATMs and rob them, or in rare cases, force them to withdraw money from multiple ATMs. Some incidents involve following tourists from the airport.
Smash-and-grab thefts from vehicles are extremely common, even in affluent areas and at traffic lights. Thieves break windows to grab bags, phones, or visible items.
Break-ins at accommodations can occur, particularly at less secure properties. Criminals may target holiday rentals or hotels with inadequate security.
Incidents of drinks being spiked with sedatives have been reported in bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, leading to robbery or assault.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Criminals posing as police officers stop tourists, claim to need to check wallets or bags for counterfeit money or drugs, and then steal cash or valuables. They may show fake badges or wear partial uniforms.
Unlicensed taxi drivers at OR Tambo International Airport approach tourists offering cheap rides but may overcharge dramatically, take indirect routes to inflate fares, or in worst cases, drive to secluded areas for robbery.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions, pointing out 'bird droppings' on your clothes) while an accomplice steals your bag, phone, or wallet.
Unofficial 'car guards' may aggressively demand payment for 'watching' your car, sometimes implying damage could occur if you don't pay. Some may claim they helped you park when they didn't.
Scammers approach with clipboards asking for donations to fake charities or signatures on petitions, using the interaction to distract while accomplices pickpocket or to pressure for money.
Criminals obtain your personal information and convince your mobile provider to transfer your number to a new SIM card, allowing them to intercept banking verification codes and access accounts.
Fake listings on booking websites or social media offer attractive accommodations at low prices. After payment, the property doesn't exist or is already booked.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation Safety
- Use registered ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt) or hotel-arranged transportation rather than street taxis or public transport
- Avoid the Gautrain's less secure stations; use major stations like Sandton, Rosebank, and OR Tambo Airport
- If renting a car, choose a reputable company and ensure comprehensive insurance including theft coverage
- Never pick up hitchhikers or stop for strangers on the road
- Plan routes in advance and use GPS navigation to avoid getting lost in unfamiliar areas
- Keep car doors locked and windows up at all times while driving
- Be extremely cautious at traffic lights, especially after dark—some locals run red lights in high-crime areas
- If you suspect you're being followed, drive to the nearest police station or busy public area
Accommodation Safety
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods like Sandton, Rosebank, Melrose Arch, or Fourways
- Verify that accommodations have proper security: perimeter walls, electric fencing, security guards, and armed response
- Don't advertise your room number or accommodation details publicly
- Use hotel safes for valuables, passports, and excess cash
- Keep balcony doors and windows locked, even on upper floors
- Know emergency exits and evacuation procedures
- Verify identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening your door
Money and Valuables
- Divide cash and cards—don't keep everything in one place
- Carry a 'dummy wallet' with small amount of cash in case of robbery
- Use credit cards where possible rather than carrying large amounts of cash
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks
- Keep emergency cash separate from daily money
- Don't wear expensive jewelry or watches; leave them at home
- Store photocopies of important documents separately from originals
- Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for passport and backup cards
Personal Safety
- Project confidence and awareness; criminals target those who appear lost or distracted
- Avoid walking, especially alone or after dark—even short distances
- Stay in groups when possible, particularly at night
- Don't use your phone while walking on the street—you become an easy target
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times; avoid headphones in public
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, leave the area
- Learn basic emergency phrases and keep emergency numbers readily accessible
- Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications
Technology Safety
- Don't display expensive phones, cameras, or tablets in public
- Enable tracking features on all devices before travel
- Use VPNs when connecting to public Wi-Fi
- Keep devices password-protected with biometric locks where possible
- Back up important data before traveling
- Be cautious about what you post on social media—don't advertise your location in real-time
- Consider using a cheap local phone for day-to-day activities
Dining and Nightlife
- Choose restaurants and bars in secure areas with parking security
- Stick to reputable, well-reviewed establishments
- Arrange transportation before going out—don't walk to find a taxi late at night
- Go out in groups rather than alone
- Moderate alcohol consumption to maintain awareness
- Don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended
- Leave before venues close to avoid crowds and ensure transportation availability
- Keep your phone charged for emergency calls and ride-sharing apps
Tourist Attractions
- Book tours with reputable, established companies with good security records
- Visit attractions during daylight hours when possible
- For township tours (like Soweto), use only established tour operators with experienced guides
- Keep valuables minimal when visiting attractions
- Stay with your group and follow guide instructions
- Be respectful when photographing people—always ask permission
- Research attractions beforehand to understand access and safety considerations
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers should exercise heightened caution in Johannesburg. While many women visit safely, South Africa has high rates of gender-based violence and sexual assault. Solo women travelers are more vulnerable to harassment and crime. Taking extra precautions is essential, and joining group tours or traveling with companions is strongly recommended.
- Avoid traveling alone, especially after dark—join group tours or travel with companions
- Stay in accommodations with excellent security reviews and 24-hour reception
- Use registered ride-sharing apps or hotel transportation exclusively; never use public transport or unmarked taxis
- Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention, though note that clothing does not cause assault
- Don't wear expensive jewelry or carry designer bags that attract attention
- Keep your phone charged and accessible for emergency calls
- Share your itinerary and check in regularly with someone back home
- Be extremely cautious about accepting drinks from strangers or in bars/clubs
- Trust your instincts—if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave immediately
- Consider carrying a personal safety alarm or whistle
- Book accommodations in safe neighborhoods like Sandton, Rosebank, or Melrose Arch
- Avoid walking anywhere, even short distances in daylight—use transportation
- Be aware that harassment may occur; respond firmly but avoid confrontation
- Join women-focused travel groups or tours for added security and community
- Have emergency contacts readily accessible, including your embassy and local emergency services
- If staying in private accommodations, ensure host has verified reviews from other women travelers
LGBTQ+ Travelers
South Africa has the most progressive LGBTQ+ rights in Africa, with same-sex marriage legal since 2006 and constitutional protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation. Johannesburg is generally the most LGBTQ+-friendly city in Africa.
- Johannesburg has an active LGBTQ+ scene with bars, clubs, and events, particularly in areas like Melville and Parkhurst
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection outside of LGBTQ+-friendly venues and neighborhoods
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and venues in advance
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations or online communities for current advice and recommendations
- Be aware that attitudes vary significantly between urban areas and townships or rural areas
- Despite legal protections, hate crimes do occur; remain vigilant and trust your instincts
- Johannesburg Pride is held annually (usually October) and is a major event
- Popular LGBTQ+ venues include The Chill_Out in Melville and various events in Parkhurst
- Consider joining LGBTQ+ travel groups or tours for community and safety
- While discrimination is illegal, enforcement can be inconsistent; know your rights
- Transgender travelers should carry identification matching their presentation to avoid complications
- Healthcare providers in private hospitals are generally professional and non-discriminatory
- Be cautious about using dating apps; meet in public places and tell someone your plans
- The Triangle Project and OUT LGBT Well-being are local organizations that can provide support and resources
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for Johannesburg due to high crime rates, potential for medical emergencies, and expensive private healthcare. Without insurance, a medical emergency could cost tens of thousands of dollars. Insurance also provides crucial support for theft, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation. Do not travel to Johannesburg without comprehensive travel insurance.
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