## Is It Safe to Travel to South Africa in 2019?
South Africa is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. However, it is also a country with a high crime rate. This can make travelers wonder if it is safe to visit South Africa.
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. South Africa is a large country with a diverse population. The crime rate varies depending on the area you are visiting.
## Overall Crime Rate
The overall crime rate in South Africa is high. According to the South African Police Service, there were over 1.6 million crimes reported in 2018. This includes over 20,000 murders.
## Violent Crime
Violent crime is a major concern in South Africa. While travelers are unlikely to be the victims of violent crime, it is still important to be aware of the risks.
The most common types of violent crime in South Africa are:
Murder
Robbery
Assault
Carjacking
## Property Crime
Property crime is also a problem in South Africa. This includes:
Theft
Burglary
Vandalism
## Safety Tips for Travelers
There are a number of things that travelers can do to help reduce their risk of becoming a victim of crime in South Africa:
Be aware of your surroundings.
Avoid walking alone at night.
Keep your valuables safe.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash.
Be cautious when using ATMs.
Report any suspicious activity to the police.
## Is It Safe to Travel to South Africa?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to travel to South Africa is a personal one. However, it is important to be aware of the risks involved before making a decision.
If you do decide to travel to South Africa, be sure to take precautions to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.
## Specific Safety Tips
In addition to the general safety tips above, there are some specific things that travelers can do to stay safe in South Africa:
Avoid driving at night.
If you are driving, keep your doors locked and windows up.
Park your car in a well-lit area.
Be aware of the people around you.
Don’t trust strangers who approach you on the street.
Report any harassment or suspicious activity to the police.
## Conclusion
South Africa is a beautiful country with a lot to offer travelers. However, it is important to be aware of the risks involved before making a decision to visit.
If you do decide to travel to South Africa, be sure to take precautions to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.