Tourist Scams in South Africa — Safety Guide 2026
South Africa has 35+ documented tourist scams across 3 cities in our database. Scam activity is rated high. The most common risks are street scams, other scams, taxi & transport.
Overall risk
High
Scams documented
35+
Cities covered
3
High severity
20
All 3 covered cities in South Africa
Most common scam types in South Africa
Street Scams
11 reports
Other Scams
5 reports
Taxi & Transport
4 reports
Tour & Activities
4 reports
South Africa travel safety questions
Is South Africa safe for tourists?
South Africa is visited by millions of tourists every year and is generally safe with preparation. Our database documents 35+ tourist scams across 3 cities in South Africa. Scam activity is rated high overall. The most common risks are street scams, other scams, taxi & transport scams. Reviewing the specific warnings for your destination before you travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in South Africa?
The most frequently documented tourist scams in South Africa are Street Scams, Other Scams, Taxi & Transport, Tour & Activities. Durban has the highest documented scam count with 13 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which city in South Africa has the most tourist scams?
Durban has the highest number of documented tourist scams in South Africa with 13 recorded incidents in our database. Other cities with significant scam activity include Johannesburg and Cape Town.
How can I stay safe from scams in South Africa?
The most effective protection in South Africa is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention from strangers near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each city you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for South Africa are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
Quick stats