South Africa : Safety by City
- Bloemfontein
- Boksburg
- Cape Town
- Durban
- Johannesburg
- Pietermaritzburg
- Port Elizabeth
- Pretoria
- Randburg
Durban sits on the eastern coast of South Africa, in the province of KwaZulu Natal, facing the warm Indian Ocean.
It is the country’s third largest city and one of its busiest ports.
What makes Durban different from Cape Town or Johannesburg is its subtropical climate, strong Zulu cultural roots, and laid back beach atmosphere.
The Golden Mile stretches along the coastline with palm trees, surfers, joggers, and families enjoying the ocean year round.
At the same time, Durban exists within a country that struggles with high crime rates, economic inequality, and infrastructure challenges.
That contrast often leaves travelers wondering: is it safe to visit?
The short answer is yes, but only if you travel smart.
Durban can be an incredible destination for beaches, wildlife, and culture, but safety awareness is not optional here.
Let’s break it down properly.
Warnings & Dangers in Durban
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Durban carries a medium overall risk for tourists. South Africa has relatively high violent crime rates compared to many Western countries, and Durban is no exception. However, most serious crime occurs in specific neighborhoods and typically affects locals rather than tourists. Visitors who stay in safe areas, use reputable transport, and avoid walking alone at night can significantly reduce their risk.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Public transport in Durban is not tourist friendly. Minibus taxis can be chaotic and sometimes unsafe. Metered taxis have a mixed reputation, and informal drivers should be avoided. Ride hailing services like Uber are widely used and generally safer, though there have been occasional disputes between ride share drivers and local taxi operators. Always confirm your ride in the app before entering the vehicle.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpocketing happens, particularly along the beachfront, busy markets, and transport hubs. It is not at European big city levels, but it is common enough to require vigilance. Keep phones out of sight when not in use, avoid displaying large amounts of cash, and use anti theft bags when walking in crowded areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Durban does not face earthquakes or hurricanes, but it can experience severe storms, flooding, and occasional water infrastructure issues. In recent years, parts of KwaZulu Natal have experienced heavy rainfall that caused flooding and damage. Travelers should monitor weather alerts during the rainy season, which typically runs from November through March.
MUGGING RISK: HIGH
Street muggings are one of the main safety concerns. These incidents are more common after dark and in poorly lit areas. Tourists walking alone at night, especially away from major hotels or beachfront security zones, are at higher risk. Armed robberies do occur, though tourists are not usually specifically targeted. Avoid walking alone after sunset unless you are in a well patrolled area.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There is no consistent pattern of terrorist attacks targeting tourists in Durban. South Africa does not face the same level of international terrorism threat as some other regions. While isolated extremist incidents have occurred in the country over the years, the overall risk remains low for travelers.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Common scams include fake tour guides, overcharging taxi drivers, ATM distractions, and street vendors offering unsolicited assistance. Always use official ATMs inside banks or shopping malls, and politely decline help from strangers. Booking tours through established companies greatly reduces scam risk.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Female travelers can visit Durban safely, but precautions are important. Harassment can happen, particularly in nightlife areas or on less busy streets. Walking alone at night is not advisable. Staying in reputable accommodations and using ride share services instead of walking after dark significantly improves safety.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
Durban’s municipal tap water is generally considered safe to drink, but infrastructure problems have occasionally affected quality in parts of KwaZulu Natal. Many travelers prefer bottled water out of caution. In hotels and reputable establishments, filtered water is typically available.
Safest Places to Visit in Durban
For most travelers, safety improves dramatically when you stay in well known, tourist focused areas.
The Golden Mile is one of the safest parts of the city during the day.
This beachfront stretch includes wide promenades, hotels, and regular police patrols.
It is popular with joggers, families, and surfers.
During daylight hours, it feels lively and generally secure.
uShaka Marine World is another safe and well managed area.
This major marine theme park complex includes an aquarium, water park, restaurants, and shops.
Security presence is strong, and it attracts both locals and tourists.
Umhlanga, located just north of central Durban, is widely considered the safest area for visitors.
It has upscale hotels, shopping centers, clean beaches, and a more controlled environment.
Many business travelers and families choose to stay here.
Florida Road is known for restaurants and nightlife.
While it is safer than many other parts of the city, visitors should still avoid walking alone late at night and use ride share services instead.
Nature lovers heading to nearby game reserves or the Drakensberg Mountains will generally find these areas peaceful and well organized, especially when visiting with reputable tour operators.
Places to Avoid in Durban
Certain neighborhoods in and around Durban have significantly higher crime rates and are not recommended for tourists.
Parts of the Durban Central Business District can feel unsafe after business hours.
Petty theft and muggings are more common here, especially at night.
If you need to visit during the day, remain alert and avoid carrying valuables openly.
Townships such as KwaMashu and Umlazi are culturally rich communities but can experience high crime levels.
Visiting without a local guide is not advisable.
If you want to explore township culture, book a structured tour with a trusted operator.
The harbor area and isolated sections of the beachfront after dark can also pose risks.
What feels lively during the day can become quiet and poorly lit at night.
Some inner city neighborhoods have visible signs of poverty, which can correlate with opportunistic crime.
As a general rule, if an area looks deserted or poorly maintained, leave and head back to a busier zone.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Durban
- Stay in Umhlanga or Well Secured Beachfront Hotels. If safety is your top priority, base yourself in Umhlanga rather than central Durban. This northern suburb has gated hotels, private security patrols, well lit streets, and controlled beach access points. If you stay along the Golden Mile, choose established hotels with visible security presence and 24 hour reception. Avoid very cheap inner city guesthouses that lack proper access control.
- Avoid Walking in the CBD After Business Hours. Durban’s Central Business District can feel busy and normal during the day, but it changes quickly in the late afternoon. Shops close, foot traffic drops, and opportunistic crime becomes more likely. If you need to visit places like Warwick Junction or government offices, go during mid morning or early afternoon and leave before sunset. Do not explore side streets or alleys.
- Use Uber or Bolt Instead of Street Taxis. Minibus taxis are a major part of local transport but are not recommended for visitors unfamiliar with routes and systems. Metered taxis can overcharge tourists. Ride hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are generally safer and more predictable. Always verify the license plate and driver name in the app. Sit in the back seat and avoid sharing rides with strangers.
- Be Extra Alert on the Golden Mile at Dusk. The Golden Mile promenade is lively during the day, with runners, surfers, and families. However, once daylight fades, some stretches become less populated. Petty theft and muggings are more common in poorly lit sections. Enjoy the beach during daylight hours, and once evening comes, head back to your hotel or use transport rather than walking long distances along the promenade.
- Do Not Display Phones or Cameras Near Roads. Phone snatching from pedestrians by criminals in passing vehicles or on foot does occur. When taking photos near busy streets, hold your device firmly and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid standing near the edge of the road while texting. If you need to check directions, step into a shop or stand with your back against a wall.
- Visit Townships Only With Organized Tours. Areas such as Umlazi or KwaMashu have rich cultural heritage, but they also experience higher crime levels. Independent exploration is not recommended. If you want to learn about township life or local history, book a reputable guided tour. A local guide provides context, security awareness, and smoother interactions with residents.
- Use ATMs Inside Malls Like Gateway Theatre of Shopping. ATM related scams are common across South Africa. Criminals may offer fake assistance or attempt distraction techniques. Use machines located inside major malls such as Gateway in Umhlanga or inside banks. Refuse help from strangers and never let anyone stand too close while entering your PIN.
- Lock Car Doors and Avoid Leaving Items Visible. If you rent a car, keep doors locked at all times, even while driving. Smash and grab theft can happen at traffic lights if valuables are visible. Do not leave bags, cameras, or shopping items on seats. Park in guarded parking lots rather than isolated street spaces whenever possible.
- Monitor Weather During Summer Rain Season. Durban’s summer months bring heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. Roads in low lying areas can become waterlogged quickly. Check local weather forecasts daily during the rainy season. Avoid driving through flooded streets, as flash flooding can be stronger than it appears.
- Know Emergency Contacts and Private Hospital Locations. Save South Africa’s emergency number 112 in your phone. Identify the nearest private hospital to your accommodation, as private facilities generally provide faster and higher quality care than public hospitals. If you have travel insurance, keep your policy number accessible so you can quickly authorize treatment if needed.
So... How Safe Is Durban Really?
Durban is not a low risk destination by global standards.
South Africa consistently reports higher crime rates than many European or Asian countries.
According to national crime statistics, robbery and assault remain ongoing issues in urban centers.
However, most serious violent crime is concentrated in specific areas and often involves local disputes rather than tourists.
Millions of visitors travel to KwaZulu Natal every year without incident.
The key difference between a smooth trip and a problematic one often comes down to behavior.
Tourists who stay in secure neighborhoods, avoid walking alone at night, use trusted transport, and remain alert generally report positive experiences.
Durban offers warm beaches, wildlife safaris within driving distance, and vibrant culture.
It demands awareness, but it does not require fear.
With smart planning, the city can be both memorable and manageable.
How Does Durban Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Durban |
38 |
| Johannesburg |
35 |
| Pietermaritzburg |
43 |
| Cape Town |
33 |
| Bloemfontein |
33 |
| Port Elizabeth |
65 |
| Pretoria |
25 |
 Newcastle upon Tyne | 72 |
 Ottumwa | 51 |
| Minden | 82 |
| Hoover | 62 |
| Joliet | 81 |
| St. Augustine | 87 |
Useful Information
Visas
Many travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union can enter South Africa visa free for up to 90 days for tourism. Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date and contain blank pages for entry stamps. Always confirm current requirements before traveling.
Currency
The local currency is the South African Rand. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. ATMs are easy to find in malls. Exchange money only at official banks or exchange offices to avoid scams.
Weather
Durban has a humid subtropical climate. Summers from November to March are hot and humid with afternoon storms. Winters are mild and pleasant. Lightweight clothing works year round, but pack a light jacket for cooler evenings and rain protection during summer.
Airports
King Shaka International Airport serves Durban and is located about 35 kilometers north of the city center. The drive to Umhlanga takes about 15 minutes, while central Durban is around 30 minutes depending on traffic. Ride share services and airport shuttles are available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Private healthcare in South Africa is high quality but can be costly without coverage. Insurance protects you against medical emergencies, theft, and unexpected trip cancellations. It is a small investment for significant peace of mind.
Durban Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 27 |
| Low °C |
21 | 21 | 20 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 19 |
| High °F |
84 | 84 | 82 | 79 | 77 | 73 | 72 | 72 | 73 | 75 | 77 | 81 |
| Low °F |
70 | 70 | 68 | 63 | 57 | 52 | 50 | 52 | 55 | 59 | 63 | 66 |
South Africa - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bloemfontein | 33 |
| Boksburg | 33 |
| Cape Town | 33 |
| Durban | 38 |
| Johannesburg | 35 |
| Pietermaritzburg | 43 |
| Port Elizabeth | 65 |
| Pretoria | 25 |
| Randburg | 32 |
At Ballito beach,most dog owners ignore the two rules, dogs must be on a leash and pickup the mess your dog makes.So visitors watch your step,most dog walkers have no respect for rules or fellow walkers.
Not as bad as your article suggests
Durban does have crime hotspots but is not as risky as this article indicates. If you go to the usual tourist areas you will be fine. Use common sense and take advice from your hotel and you will be fine. Enjoy the city.
Your article is false
The exaggeration of this article is unbelievable,I’m in shock.
This article is 100 % correct. Durban is riddled with criminal element.. If you get robbed in the streets, no one is going help you.
I agree with Hemesh! Been there, and robbed multiple times. 2022 is even worse
And you would think you would have learnt after the first time !
And you would think you would have learnt after the first time !
I am surprised which part of Durban this article refers to. I stay in Durban but I have never heard of criminals stopping tourist busses. Floods, earthquakes, storms and wildfires in South Africa. Sorry I differ with this article in many ways.
Well at the beginning of my 6 weeks travel to Durban I had a few near misses, 1st one was a shooting on the beach, 2nd a robbery on the strip, 3rd someone stole an old white man’s ginger wig, I then myself uncontrollably had the runs and pooed myself whilst in a restaurant, ps I was bared from that perticular joint😁 but I was not happy with the food anyway, finally I got arrested for selling crack, Durban is a great place, I am looking forward to returning soon I may even apply to permantly live there😬😉👌😎
Then you should get more. Let me guess, Umhlanga? Ballito?
Hasn’t there just been devastating floods in Durban??
Shambolic Writing
Absolutely shambolic article. This was clearly written by an individual who has never set foot in Durban. Obviously there are places which tourists shouldnt go but 95% of Durban is completely safe. This writer is a joke.
This is absolutely bullshit. No area is safe. I live in Reservoir Hills, a suburb of Durban, which is upper middle class but hijacking, muggings, home invasions occur almost everyday. This happens in almost all residential areas. The mall in my area has has been robbed many many times and in broad daylight in view of shoppers motorists have been hijacked at gunpoint. Home invasions occur a few times a week and in many occasions owners are severely beaten. With regard to the city centre, stay far away from it. When I moved to Durban in the early seventies, one could move around freely at night doing window shopping and the idea of being robbed would not even cross your mind. Woe betide anyone who dares to go to the city centre at night. Your family will find your body in of the morgues.
Any big city in South Africa is dangerous
I think that this is true, since it is the same information I got from locals during my 3 months stay in Johannesburg. Exactly the same description of crime activities! Unfortunately, it happens. In the complex where I stayed, even if it was surrendered by electrified fences and guarder by armed guardians who constantly walked the streets, it happened that a whole family was robbed and killed one night!
I Agree, Crime Must Be Rampant
I can believe you and everything you said, given there are walls, razor wire, electric fences, iron bars, etc. around almost every home. This clearly communicates “crime is rampant”. Sad but true.
article is gravely misleading
hi im born in Durban, South Africa, has been my home for over 40 years. We have never had earthquakes, or natural disasters like your article suggests. there might have been mild flooding due to heavy rains but no major disasters. thats an exaggeration putting it mildly. as far as safety is concerned, no city in the world is safe especially if you are a tourist. if you follow the basic rules and don’t wander into unsafe zones outside the city you will be fine. a tour guide is recommended for sight seeing. don’t listen to everything you hear. do your own homework and you will enjoy your stay in this beautiful country we call home.
You should travell more!!!
Oh Yes! There are very, very safe citys in the world!
Durban is definitely not safe. You say tourists should do there homework. Well this sight is doing their homework, but guys like you give false information. You just had a major flood in Durban, and ours every 8 or so years. Mugging, kidnapping is all on the rise. Beachfront during the day is probably OK, but venture into the city, not so much. And after dark, beware big time.
RUBBISH NONSENSE!!!
What utter nonsense!! We do not have natural disasters like you have put it and most certainly do not have fake tourist police. Yes there is crime like any city but you will not be attacked at your every move if at all. Be sensible and you will have a great time.
This article is misleading you should be shut down!!
Article garbage it js
I AGREE.
I agree fully this guy who wrote this has probably not even been to Durban
No Natural Disasters
I live in Durban. Natural disasters is not a concern, the article is completely misleading in this regard. As a tourist you need to exercise caution and listen to good advice given at your hotels and by travel guides. You can then have a wonderful holiday in a beautiful country that is very cost effective. The Durban Botanic Gardens is one of my favourite spots and entry is free.
Spent 5 years in Durban way back in the 1940’s with many happy memories. Would love to return for a visit but it’s a long way from our home in Colorado. USA.
utter nonsense
the most false article I have read in my life, whoever wrote this article is utterly false about everything to the natural disasters to the weather.
THIS ARTICLE IS BULLSHIT
I was born here. We have never had any natural distastes or tsunamis! Do NOT propagate false crap. And dont write an article about a city you clearly have no idea about. Get your facts straight before you decide to inform others.
Please be careful!
Sadly, I have lived in Durban for nearly 30 years, it was a beautiful place to live! Sadly ( especially In the past 2 years) but crime is increasing to a very dangerous level (murder, rape, hijacking, etc) despite what the politicians would like you to think.
I have chatted with several people who work in the law courts in Durban and they are astonished at the rise of murder cases. Please do your research eg YouTube etc.
True
Is this a joke?!
Pity. The writer forgot to mention Durban’s only active volcano that erupts every 27s in the city centre.
I went there 2 yrs ago I got mugged at gun point and ass raped
Was it a bad experience?
It happened to me too, but he was sexy, and I was wearing a short skirt, so I’m not surprised.
Moved to Durban in 1988. If life is measured by good times, waves caught, promenade walks, swims, great weather,great food, cheerful people then Durban wins hands down. CNN called Durban the coolest place you never heard of….yes it’s a city so take care and ask locals where and what but join us, you won’t look back, especially if you discover Umhlanga Rocks !!
Article is nonsense.. Since when is a tsunami considered as terrorism?
DURBAN IS BEAUTIFUL
I’M 65 BORN IN DURBAN. DURBAN IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO VISIT.
THE WRITER WROTE ABOUT THE DREAM HE HAD. CRIME IS ALL OVER THE WORLD, AND ONE SHOULD TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES AND BELONGINGS AND WHERE IN THE WORLD.
DURBAN’S GONDEN MILE BEACH FRONT IS SAFE WITH LOTS OF SECURITY VISABILITY.
There is always that comforting story that crime is everywhere. Not true, there are very safe countries and cities all over the world. Come to any Eastern European countries and you’ll be safe, unless you’re really looking for trouble. No armed robberies, no any problems during the night in any part of the city etc. One of the bad sides of western culture is that consideres crime as something normal.
my friend was invaded while living in durban she had luckily escaped the home
Rubbish article. Ban the writer
This is a joke, the biggest load of garbage I’ve seen in my life…. I mean this is a shit sandwich… who wrote this nonsense? Your site is misleading… Terrorism in Durban, natural disasters… the crime exaggeration… look everywhere has crime to a certain degree if you stay clear of doggy areas you should be fine.
Article is false.
I laughed at the end of the article cos it is such a joke!
Bull shit I’m from durban and there nothing safe about it you can’t walk on the road o on the beach alone you will get robbed or you mite just lose your car. Whoever posted this nonsense is just putting up a face to make it look good. There are cops but you should no the story good for a kfc only yes there are sum good cops but the rest are just useless unfit and the list will go on.
I agree
You lying dbn is a wonderful place to be
Durban as such is beautiful, although very unsafe for female tourists. Never wonder of in any back alley. Keep your wallet in your front pocket, dont follow anybody that tries to bullshit you in any story. Dont wonder around at night alone. Dozens of cars are stollen daily. Keep your personal belongings in a safe place. Mugging, rape and and is a norm! The writer is only touching the service of all the dangers lurking in this city.
Durban is a wonderful city
There are no earthquakes; never heard of criminals posing as tourist police. Lived in Durban for over 40 years and have never been mugged. Article is misleading as Durban is a wonderful city; a melting pot of cultural diversity. If common sense precautions are followed, tourists can have a wonderful time here. Fact check first before been misled by exaggerated insinuations.
Officially Confused
So…. these responses on crime and safety couldn’t negate each other more.
I am planning a trip to Durban early next year with the hopes of relocating there next year as well.
I’ve travelled plenty and know how to avoid petty theft and pickpockets, but it sounds like this could be a whole different situation in Durban. Any thoughts would be appreciated!
(P.S. I come from Chicago in the US. We have a really horrible rep when it comes to violence and crime, yet I’ve never been in danger or a victim to a violent crime here in Chicago. So I know what it’s like to simply not be where the violence is. Is that the case for Durban?)
High risk bad. Low risk good.
I left SA in 1999 due to the Crime/Violence. Lived in Scottburgh & Durban the last 10yrs. My business in Scott. was robbed at gunpoint (Ak47 Assault rifles). My home in Durban broken into three times. Nearly Hijacked twice. My Brother & Sister in Law brutally attacked in their home. My Son shot at. All this in a space of three months. It is all about risk that is usually backed up with Stats. & reports from friends & relatives. The last 20 Yrs I lived in London & since travelled to over 50 Countries. My Wife & I have walked, night & day, the streets of Rome, Istanbul, Paris, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Warsaw, Berlin, Budapest, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Vienna, Edinburgh, Lisbon, Egypt, Amsterdam, Havana, Madeira, Malta, Banjul in The Gambia, Brussels, Dubrovnic, Athens, Monaco, Jerusalem, The Canary Islands & others. Not once did I feel nervous, afraid or necessary to be cautious & was never bothered by anyone ever. Why go to SA when the risk is high & not worth taking? It is an advertised/known fact it has a massive problem with violent crime. Check the Stats. Talk to people who have lived there. Go to the Greek Islands. The Caribbean. Spain. France. It is so much better out there with little or no risk.
No there s is no such a thing i’Ve never heard or see this in Durban this writer need us who settle in Dbn to ask her about this does he or she know what they are writing Dbn take action they are disrespecting and embarrassing us in our visitors
Born in Durban. Only natural disaster I remember was flooding In the Umgeniriver that took out most of the bridges. Crime is a problem and the reason I left.
Durban is a beautiful city, but it can be dangerous at night. While others say crime is everywhere, you are more likely to be a victim of crime in Durban especially in the city centre. I was sexually assaulted just outside the city hall at 5pm, and nobody came to my assistance. That said he was very sexy. Before that, someone offered me crack, but the quality was crap. There was an earthquake once, but not very strong. You’re more likely to get your stiletto’s covered in litter and excrement because the streets in the city are not clean.
LOVE UMHLANGA
My greatest fear after reading most of these posts is spelling and grammar 😂
Hard to read so many of you😂😂😂
By the way, I am a Capetonian who would risk a mugging or two for living in the haven that Durban and everything surrounding it is.
I know a Police officer Andrew Holland Who worked for Londons Met police He was demoted and Left Due to Corruption .He now works For Durban Police .Same old story there
If you are lucky, you could enjoy Durban as a tourist but maybe you need a bodyguard if you are elderly and vulnerable.
The last thing you need to worry about are natural disasters in Durban but along the Esplanade and in central Durban, if you are walking about with phones taking pics as tourists do you could be putting yourself at risk. No obvious bag or valuables in sight and if you walk briskly as if you know where you are going, you may be OK. But crime is rampant and it is definitely a no-go area at night. The beachfront and Botanic Gardens should be fine in the morning but no swimming at the moment because of ecoli. Take a taxi to Botanic Gardens as it may not be safe to walk there. It all depends on your vulnerability and who is casing the joint for easy pickings.
optimistic
So having read all these comments, I will put in my review now, so if I don’t make it back… uhhh yeah :/ no news is bad news …..
im sure it will be fine
The Golden Mile with its palm trees and surfers is beautiful, but I still feel uneasy walking there after dark so I keep my phone tucked away.
When you call the Golden Mile laid back, were you really weaving between surfers and palm trees in that warm, salty breeze or is that just how I remember it?