Firstly, welcome and enjoy our beautiful city. We don’t walk around stressed or scared. We go out, we eat out, we sit by the ocean, we work, we live, but we are always very aware.

Most visitors arrive with the same questions at the back of their mind. Will I be safe walking around? Will I get scammed? Will I stand out as a tourist? Here are a few helpful tips (disclaimer: local insight shared for general awareness, not official advice.)

We Don’t Assume Anything

Even something as simple as crossing the road.
A zebra crossing doesn’t mean a car will stop.
A green robot (traffic light) doesn’t mean it’s clear.
You look. Then you go and keep looking.

Cell Phones and Mobile Safety

If you walk around holding your phone out in the open, you stand out immediately.

As a local, we:
• Keep phones in pockets or bags (don’t leave on your table at a cafe/ restaurant)
• Take them out when needed
• Stay aware while using them

If you need directions, step inside somewhere or stand still and check your phone. Don’t walk and be distracted.

Bags and Personal Belongings

At restaurants, bags aren’t just placed next to chairs.

They’re:
• Wrapped around arms
• Hooked onto chairs
• Positioned where they can’t be easily taken

At the beach it’s the same. We don’t leave valuables unattended while swimming. We either take turns or keep things out of sight.

Street Interactions and Common Scams

You may get approached.
People asking for money. Asking you to buy something. Telling you a story.
Some are genuine. Some are not.

Most Locals keep it simple:
“No, thank you”, and keep moving.

No long conversations. No engagement that pulls your attention away.
Tourists often feel they need to be polite and stop. You don’t. Keep it moving.

Getting Around and Safety at Night

This is something visitors worry about a lot.

Uber works well in Cape Town and is widely used.
Always check the number plate before getting in and sit in the back.

At night, even in good areas, locals don’t walk far distances. We Uber.

Car Guards Explained

This is something tourists always ask about.
They will help you park and offer to “watch your car”.

They’re called car guards.
Payment is optional.
Most locals tip a small amount.

It’s part of how many people earn a living, and it’s become part of the system.

Don’t Look Lost

If you stand in the street looking unsure with your phone out, you draw attention.
Locals don’t do that.

If you’re unsure, step into a shop or café, figure things out, then move.

Exploring Cape Town Safely

Cape Town has incredible hikes, drives, beaches.
Once again, we are aware.

• We don’t hike alone
• We don’t go into unfamiliar areas without checking
• We ask for recommendations

There’s always someone who knows.

Stay aware, enjoy yourself and have fun.