General Security Advice

• Cape Town is a major, modern cosmopolitan South African city. As such, we would advise travelers to exercise the same level of vigilance they would exercise when visiting any major city in the world.

This includes ensuring you follow basic safety tips such as keeping emergency numbers on hand, avoiding carrying large sums of cash and keeping your valuables safe at all times.

Top tips for keeping safe in the city

o   Avoid carrying large sums of cash, don’t carry cameras in plain sight and do not leave belongings unattended.

o   Heed the advice of your hosts, Cape Town Tourism Visitor Centre staff, or locals on where to go after dusk. Avoid walking in deserted and dark places at night. Park in a secure, well-lit area with street guards.

o   Never allow strangers to assist you in any way at ATMs or cash points.

o   Street children and beggars may approach you for a handout. If you wish to help, consider giving food, donating to a registered charity or contact Cape Town Tourism for advice.

o   Keep copies of all valuable documents in a safe place.

o   When exploring Table Mountain National Park, take a map, comfortable walking shoes, a few friends and a charged mobile phone.

Emergency numbers

o   Emergencies from a mobile: 112

o   Emergencies from a landline: 107

o   South African Police Service: 10111

o   Medical & Fire Emergencies: 021 535 1100

o   Table Mountain NP Emergencies: 021 480 7700

o   Sea & Mountain Rescue: 021 948 9900

o   National Sea Rescue Institute: 082 911

o   Baboon Monitors: 071 588 6540

o   Shark Spotters: 078 174 4244

o   Ambulance: 10177

 More security advice is available on the Cape Town Tourism website