With Africa becoming a popular choice among many tourists for its warm weather and stunning landscapes, one city has been found to be the most dangerous, and it’s located in the continent’s richest country.
Pretoria, a city in South Africa, is ranked as the second most dangerous city in the world. The city is dominated by violent crimes, including armed robberies, carjackings, and assaults. Key crime hotspots in Pretoria include Sunnyside and the Central Business District (CBD), where petty offences frequently escalate into violent incidents.
One alarming case in 2023 involved a string of armed robberies targeting university students near Hatfield, sparking concerns about safety in educational areas.
The UK’s Foreign Office has also issued advice to tourists planning their holidays to South Africa.
In the advisory, it said: “There is a high crime rate in South Africa, with incidents including: violent muggings. snatching jewellery and valuables, carjacking, ‘smash and grab’ attacks on vehicles, house robbery, rape and sexual assault and murder.
“Violent crime can take place anywhere, including in tourist destinations and transport hubs. Most violent crimes occur in townships located on the outskirts of major cities, central business districts or in isolated areas. The threat is higher when it is dark.
“There have been violent incidents involving tourists at popular tourist locations. There are usually security personnel in the main tourist areas who can assist tourists. However, policing and security can be limited, so always be cautious. Avoid isolated beaches and picnic spots. Do not walk alone in remote areas or on beaches when deserted, especially when it is dark.”
Pretoria’s crime challenges are closely linked to socio-economic disparities, with unemployment rates exceeding 30 percent, pushing many toward criminal activities.
Law enforcement faces significant hurdles, including limited resources and slow response times, exacerbating security concerns.
Despite Pretoria’s historical importance as South Africa’s administrative capital, ongoing safety issues often overshadow its cultural landmarks and overall appeal.
However, some travellers claimed that the city was safe, contrary to the data that calls it one of the most dangerous. A user on Reddit forum wrote: “I travelled there as an American recently, and it was great! I’d keep your head on a swivel downtown. It’s a bit sketchy. But if you can, head over to the Kruger House Museum. Totally worth that downtown trip.
“Other areas seemed way safer. I loved the university campus, and the museums there. And if you can, go to a rugby game at Loftus Versfeld. Incredible stuff!”
A second user wrote: “It’s generally safe. Only areas I would avoid as a foreigner are Pretoria CBD, Sunnyside, and Arcadia. But overall Pretoria CBD is much safer than Joburg CBD.
“Otherwise it’s pretty safe. You can walk around even at night as long as you’re not alone and in well lit places. (Like the strip is generally safe to walk around) but of course no flashy displays of wealth otherwise you’d be making yourself a target. Don’t walk around holding your phone in your hand at night. Day time is pretty safe.”