Canada has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting South Africa, citing persistent violent crime and ongoing personal safety risks.
In the advisory, published earlier this month, Canadian authorities warned that violent crime remains widespread across the country and continues to affect foreign visitors.
The notice highlights threats including armed robberies, home invasions, carjackings, assaults, petty theft, road crime, and airport-related incidents, particularly in major urban centres.
Cape Town International Airport and surrounding areas were singled out as high-risk zones. Travelers were advised to use the N2 and M3 highways and to avoid the R300.
Officials specifically recommended staying on the N2’s Airport Approach Road rather than Borcherds Quarry Road, which passes through Nyanga, an area known for higher crime rates.
The advisory also flagged ongoing thefts at hotels and guesthouses, urging visitors to confirm security arrangements before booking and to avoid leaving valuables unattended.
Travelers were cautioned to comply immediately if confronted by criminals, as resisting could escalate violence.
Limiting movement after dark, avoiding isolated areas and townships, and remaining vigilant in public spaces were also strongly recommended.
Canada further warned of high levels of petty crime in crowded areas such as markets, transport hubs, and tourist attractions.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, and visitors were advised to secure passports and important documents, remain alert at ATMs, and avoid displaying jewelry or electronic devices.
Airport-related crime featured prominently in the warning, with reports of passengers being followed from airports and robbed shortly after arrival. Authorities encouraged travelers to remain cautious during transfers and to avoid predictable travel routines.
Canada’s advisory aligns with similar warnings issued by other countries. In June, the United States issued a Level 2 travel advisory for South Africa, citing risks from violent crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping, particularly in city centers after dark.
The U.S. also noted a rise in kidnappings targeting foreign nationals for cash or banking access.
China raised comparable concerns in May after reporting an increase in violent crimes against its citizens, including kidnappings and a deadly home invasion.
Chinese officials urged heightened vigilance and the use of secure residential and work locations.
The growing number of travel warnings from major economies underscores international concern about South Africa’s security challenges, even as the country seeks to revive tourism and attract foreign investment.
