Safety should be of concern for all travelers, no matter where you’re the destination. Cape Town has been getting a bad rap for being unsafe, not just because of crime, but also because of natural safety and health hazards like heatstroke, local wildlife, hiking accidents and swimming in rough oceans. Keeping these logical health and safety tips in mind, there is no need to worry about visiting Cape Town and enjoying all the good things the Mother City has to offer.

Here is how to stay safe during your travels in Cape Town:

But Before we go there – make sure you like our Facebook Page for more Awesome Cape Town News, views, pics and Videos:

Emergency Numbers To Keep Close:

-Emergency SAPS:  10111 

-Wilderness Search and Rescue:  021 937 0300

-Emergency Services, Cape Town: 021 480 7700 

-Table Mountain National Park Security: 0861 106 417

-General emergency services number: 10177

Safety When Hiking:

Always hike in groups of 3 or more

Wear Proper food gear.

Inform someone where you are hiking and when you will be back. Let them know when you are safely home.

Make sure to choose a trail that matches your fitness level.

Know the route well before heading out. Ideally, hike with someone who knows the trail or/and bring a map with you.

Pack adequate water

Wear sun protection (Sunblock/Cap)

Pack a flashlight and spare batteries

Make sure you’re cell phone is fully charged and all the emergency numbers are saved on the device.

Leave valuables at home.

Pack all your essentials in a backpack to keep your hands free

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide To Cape Town’s Hiking Trails

Safety On The Beach:

Don’t leave your belongings unattended on the beach while you go swimming. Make turns with your friends to watch over your things.

Leave valuables at home or lock it in the boot (trunk) of your car.

Don’t listen to music with earphones or fall asleep while sunbathing, someone can snatch your bag from right under your nose

Make sure there is a lifeguard on duty before entering the water.

Wear sun protection of at least SPF 50 even if it’s overcast and reapply every hour or after swimming.

Don’t swim or surf close to feeding birds or seals, sharks may be close by

If you get caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to the shoreline.

Always swim between the red and yellow flags

Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol

Stay out of the sun from 11 am to 3 pm especially during the summer months

If you are bleeding, get out of the water. Blood attracts sharks.

Look out for shark spotter flags

Also Read: 10+ Awesome Hidden Beaches In Cape Town You Might Not Know Of

General Safety:

Don’t feed the wild animals, especially the baboons!

Never leave belongings unattended.

Always lock your car/ home/ hotel room whether you’re in it or not.

There is safety in numbers, don’t explore the streets alone, especially if you don’t know the neighborhood.

Stear clear of isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well lit, busy streets.

Hitchhiking is not recommended.

Don’t carry large amounts of money on you.

Don’t open your window when someone approaches your car at a stop street/traffic light.

Store valuables in a safety deposit box inside your hotel room or home

Like our Facebook Page for more Awesome Cape Town News, views, pics and Videos: