Is Johannesburg Safe to Visit in 2025? Here’s What I Experienced

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When I told people I was going to South Africa, the warnings rolled in fast. And when I mentioned that I’d be spending five days in Johannesburg, Whew. “You’re brave!” “Don’t leave your hotel!” “Isn’t it one of the most dangerous cities in the world?”

Let me just say this upfront: I spent five days in Johannesburg—solo at times, in Ubers, exploring museums, neighborhoods, and restaurants and not once did I feel unsafe.

Now, does that mean Johannesburg is safe? No. Just like any major city, it has areas you don’t want to wander into, especially as a tourist. But to write it off completely? That’s unfair and honestly, uninformed.

South Africa gets a bad reputation in Western media (you can read more about that in my post on whether Africa is safe).

The images we’re fed are always one-sided, focused on poverty, crime, and struggle while ignoring the beauty, culture, progress, and people that make cities like the Jo’burg are worth experiencing.

Yes, Johannesburg has a high crime rate. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Gauteng Province (where Jo’burg is located) reported elevated levels of crime in certain districts in 2024.

But here’s what most headlines leave out: the vast majority of violent crime happens in specific areas that most tourists don’t go to and often involves situations that are not random.

As a traveler, your experience in Jo’burg will largely depend on your decisions—where you stay, how you move around, and how aware you are.

I stayed at the DaVinci Hotel in Sandton for five days, riding around in Ubers, dining out, shopping, and exploring, and not once did I feel unsafe. Still, I also used the same kind of common sense I’d use in New York, LA, or Mexico City.

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And let’s be clear, Johannesburg is not just crime stats and scary stories. It’s history. It’s resilience. It’s where you walk through the Apartheid Museum and feel your soul shift.

It’s where you have dinner in Maboneng or Melville, surrounded by artists, entrepreneurs, and some of South Africa’s best food.

If you read my post about safety in Durban, you already know this trip challenged a lot of what I’d been taught to believe about Africa.

If you’re willing to approach Jo’Burg with openness and respect, it will reward you with depth, culture, and connection.

So, is it safe in Johannesburg? It can be—if you travel smart. I’ll explain how to do that in this post, including the neighborhoods to stay in, how to get around, and what I’d do differently next time.

Fact vs. Fiction Is Johannesburg Safe:

Crime Statistics in South Africa

Population: 59.31 million

Murder Rate per capita: 76.86

Crime Statistics in the U.S.?

It’s difficult to say for certain. The two primary sources of government crime statistics – the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) – both paint an incomplete picture, though efforts at improvement are underway.

The FBI publishes annual data on crimes that have been reported to the police, but not those that haven’t been reported. The FBI also looks mainly at a handful of specific violent and property crimes, but not many other types of crime, such as drug crime.

While the FBI’s data is based on the information it receives from thousands of federal, state, county, city, and other police departments, not all agencies participate every year.

In 2019, the most recent full year available, the FBI received data from around eight in ten agencies.

The overall crime rate of each country is calculated by dividing the total number of reported crimes of any kind by the total population, then multiplying the result by 100,000 (because the crime rate is typically reported as X number of crimes per 100,000 people).

Crime rates vary greatly from country to country and are influenced by many factors.

For example, high poverty levels and unemployment tend to inflate a country’s crime rate. Conversely, strict police enforcement and severe sentences tend to reduce crime rates.

There is also a strong correlation between age and crime, with most crimes, especially violent crimes, being committed by those ages 20-30 years old.

The crime rate in the United States is 47.77, more than 55 countries. Within the United States, crime rates vary between different states.

For example, Tennessee and Alaska have much higher crime rates than those in Vermont and Maine.

As you can see from the chart below, some crimes are higher in South Africa, while others are higher in the United States.

While credit card theft and robbery are predominant crimes in Johannesburg, it is still the financial capital of the country with a rich cultural scene, and I have never seen so many wealthy Black folks in my life! 

Travel Advisory
November, 7 2024

South Africa – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to crime and civil unrest.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and “smash-and-grab” attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services; such events have the potential to turn violent.

Please see our Alerts for up-to-date information.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to South Africa.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined South Africa has a moderate level of COVID-19. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to South Africa:

• Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information.
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
• Avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone familiar with the area.
• Do not display cash or valuables.
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Conserve water and follow local guidance on water use for tourists and Save Like a Local.
• Check the City of Cape Town website for up-to-date information and guidance on how to manage water consumption.
• Refer to Nelson Mandela Bay’s website for updates on water restrictions in effect in the Eastern Cape.
• Monitor water levels at the City of Cape Town’s Water Dashboard.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for South Africa.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Johannesburg vs. Cape Town

I posted on my Facebook that I preferred Jo’burg over Cape Town, and you would have thought I killed someone. 

There is an ongoing debate about Cape Town versus Johannesburg on which city is “better.” Don’t get me wrong, Cape Town was stunning, with its mountain views, wineries, city life, and ocean life. 

Cape Town is more dangerous than Johannesburg. Cape Town ranked #15 on the world’s most dangerous cities list in 2019.

While Johannesburg has a reputation for higher crime rates, it’s essential to evaluate the situation with the help of the Johannesburg travel advisory for 2025.

Johannesburg has made significant efforts to enhance its safety measures, with increased police presence and improved security in popular tourist areas.

On the other hand, Cape Town is often perceived as a safer city, but I personally believe it’s because Cape Town is more white while Johannesburg is Blackity Black.

Ultimately, when comparing Johannesburg and Cape Town in terms of safety, it’s important to recognize that both cities have their own unique challenges and attractions.

Best Neighborhoods in Johannesburg

The best areas to stay in Johannesburg are Rosebank, Melrose, and Sandton, which are some of the safest areas of the city and are very affluent.

These neighborhoods are largely filled with touristy amenities like shops, bars, clubs, restaurants, cafes, and a lot of attractions that are either found in these areas or easily reached by different forms of transport.

1. Rosebank Neighborhood

This vibrant neighborhood is one of the most popular areas in the city to stay in as it provides an abundance of entertainment and tourist facilities in a compact part of the city, making it easy to walk around.

The only thing you really need to worry about is pickpocketing Rosebank, which tends to happen in any busy city. Luckily Rosebank is one of the safest areas in the city as it has undercover police as well as uniformed police and tourist police.

The great thing about Rosebank is that there is something happening, including some of Johannesburg’s most famous art galleries, including Cherie De Villiers gallery, as well as many examples of art deco architecture, which makes for a beautiful stroll.

The main other things to see in the neighborhood include the African Craft Market, where you will find a huge quantity of quality handmade arts and crafts, and the Rooftop Flea Market is regarded by many as one of the best in the country.  

If you prefer visiting upscale shops then you don’t have to walk too far as the Rosebank shopping mall is part of the market and is where you will find a variety of designer shops and brands.

It is only a ten-minute ride to see some of the city’s main attractions like Constitution Hill, The Apartheid Museum, and the South African National Museum.

For eating, drinking, and sleeping the best streets are Jellicoe Avenue, Oxford Road, and Tyrwhitt Avenue and between them, you are sure to find something that will suit you.

2. Melrose Neighborhood

Just next door to Rosebank is the peaceful and beautiful area of Melrose, which is another safe area to stay in and is classed as an up-market part of the city.

It is well connected to other parts of the city and is full of tree-lined streets, parks, traditional architecture as well as new complexes.

The Melrose Wild Bird Sanctuary provides a great day out and is home to over 120 wild bird species and is where you can relax and enjoy a picnic.

There are also world-class restaurants offering a wide range of foods and bars that have beers and wines from all over the world.

3. Sandton Neighborhood

This sophisticated district is the most important financial and business district in the country and is home to the stock exchange, banks, and many other corporate companies, which is a safe neighborhood to stay in.

There are many art galleries, parks, expensive restaurants, brand-new shopping malls, theatres, cinemas, bars, cafes, and hotels with Nelson Mandela Square being at the center of it all.

The Convention Centre is one of the largest in the world and is home to various events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Walking in Jo’burg

Know where you are and which neighborhood you are staying in so that you are aware of your surroundings and that you keep a watchful eye on your things – don’t leave any of your personal belongings unattended in public.

If you are dining out, keep your bag between your legs, not hanging on the back of your chair where you can’t see what is happening.

In crowds, it is easy for pickpockets to go unnoticed. Don’t get too distracted by everything around you and stay aware. Markets, concerts, and busy airports or train stations are typical spaces for petty crimes to take place.

While South Africans are quite friendly and being polite to strangers is part of the culture, it is good to remember that not every stranger has your best interests at heart.

Keep this in mind when engaging with anyone whom you do not know.

Not only will this help you stay safe, but this knowledge will also give you a greater sense of where everything is when you’re lost (and there will be times when you will be).

Tell Someone Where You Are Going 

Always carry a phone and let someone know where you’re going -Carrying your wallet slung on your body, as opposed to dangling from a pocket, will help make theft harder.

Keep your most important cards such as debit and credit cards close by -Don’t use any handbag/wallet chains as they’ll act like a noose around your neck if you get attacked.

Tips for Solo Travelers or Girls’ Trip

Look out for your girlfriends if you are at clubs or restaurants.  As with any destination, do not accept drinks from strangers.  It seems simple enough and you meet a cute guy who is offering to buy cocktails it seems like a good idea at the time but don’t risk it.  

If you’re walking back to your hotel, stay alert and aware of your surroundings, and if you find yourself being followed by a man or anyone else who’s acting suspiciously, cross the street or enter a store.

Stay Safe Driving in Jo’burg

I do not suggest driving in Johannesburg if you are not accustomed to driving on the opposite side of the road. Night driving can be dangerous because people drive erratically and they do not always obey traffic laws.

To stay safe, don’t drive at night if you don’t have to, or if you must drive make sure your lights are on and try to avoid traveling long distances.

You should also focus on the road ahead instead of looking for parking spots. Once you park your car, walk only where it is well-lit and stay with a group until getting back into your car so that there will be witnesses in case anything happens.

Uber in Jo’burg

While most taxi drivers are professional and will take you to your destination without incident, I suggest Considering Uber instead.

While taxis can often be found in designated taxi ranks outside popular destinations like malls and airports, Uber cars can be hailed through the app from anywhere with a wifi signal – including from your own front door!

And considering that Uber prices start at R5 per km versus R10 for minibus taxis, it could end up being cheaper too. #2 Research the driver ahead of time.

Johannesburg Safety Tips

There should not be a question left about the safety of Jo’burg but regardless of where you are traveling, use the safety precautions below to remain safe in Johannesburg: 

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Don’t take your wallet or money out on the street is one of them.
•  Carjacking is one of the biggest issues in South Africa so I don’t even suggest renting a car just use an Uber. 
•  Never leave valuables in sight and do not wear flashy jewelry.  
• Use the hotel safe in the room for your valuables.
• Always, always purchase travel insurance that covers you for lost and stolen items.

Should You Visit Johannesburg?

Resounding YES! I had the absolute best time of my life! Johannesburg was a life-changing and unforgettable experience for me and if you have the opportunity I suggest booking your flight immediately.

Travel Information

• Visas – While U.S. citizens visiting Johannesburg do not need a visa for any stays shorter than ninety days just make sure your passports are valid for at least 30 days past your planned date of return from South Africa. 
• Currency – South African rand is the official currency in Johannesburg but I used my American Express Platinum Card for all of my purchases.
• Weather – Temperatures in Johannesburg are usually mild and pleasant due to the city’s high elevation. The temperatures have an average maximum in January of 25.6 °C dropping to an average maximum of around 16 °C in June.
• Airports – O. R. Tambo International Airport is a major international airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. 
• Travel Insurance – Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Johannesburg, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Absolutely—here’s an updated and personal conclusion for your “Is Johannesburg Safe?” blog post. It mirrors the tone and structure of your Durban conclusion while tying back to your experience and reinforcing smart travel:

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Final Thoughts: So, Is Johannesburg Safe?

Let’s not sugarcoat it—Johannesburg has a reputation. But reputations don’t always tell the whole story. After spending five days in the city as part of my 12-day South Africa trip, I can honestly say this: Johannesburg wasn’t scary, it was eye-opening. It wasn’t unsafe, it was misunderstood.

Did I take precautions? Absolutely. I stayed at the DaVinci Hotel in Sandton, used Ubers, asked locals for advice, and avoided wandering into unfamiliar areas after dark.

But guess what? That’s what I’d do in any major city, whether I’m in Chicago, Rio, or Rome.

Johannesburg taught me to stop letting fear dictate where I travel. It’s a city layered with history, culture, and creativity. It’s where I saw the effects of apartheid up close at the Apartheid Museum, but also witnessed hope, innovation, and Black excellence in real time.

It’s where I felt the rhythm of the city in places like Maboneng and met people who welcomed me with open arms.

So, is Johannesburg safe? It can be—if you’re aware, informed, and respectful. It’s not a place to throw caution to the wind, but it’s also not a place to avoid based on outdated narratives and fear-mongering headlines.

If Johannesburg is on your list—don’t cross it off. Do your homework. Choose where you stay wisely. And go with an open heart and a curious mind.

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💡 Planning a trip to South Africa?
👉 Read: Is Durban Safe? What I Really Experienced
👉 Start with: Is South Africa Safe to Visit? Breaking Down the Myths
👉 Grab my Comprehensive Travel Safety Guide eBook
👉 Shop My Amazon Safety Must-Haves

DO YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

YES! Travel Insurance is important no matter where you are traveling because accidents happen and you should always travel with insurance.

I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic and that was the one time I decided to forego travel insurance I racked up thousands of dollars in medical bills and they wanted their money before I would even be seen by the ER Doctors. 

✈️ Get Travel Insurance NOW! Travelex Is my preferred Insurance

👉 Click here to purchase my Comprehensive Travel Safety Guide eBook – Everything you need to stay ready, not scared.

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Best Romantic Getaways in South Africa

Is Bodrum Turkey Safe

How Safe is Prague 

Have you not visited Johannesburg because of the negative narrative that the media has portrayed South Africa?  Is Johannesburg on your bucket list now and do you still question ‘Is Johannesburg Safe?’

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