Your Safety During Your Vacation:
There is a lot of coverage about safety in South Africa. Poverty in South Africa can be significant, and the gap between the rich and poor is enormous. As a result, crime is a problem, especially in townships. Many private security services support the police.
Here are some important points to consider:
- Never walk or drive into a township without a local guide.
- Do not always follow the shortest route from your GPS/Google Maps — it’s better to take a detour rather than being guided through a township.
- Plan your route before starting your drive and, if necessary, ask your accommodation or destination for a safe driving route.
- Always drive with your car doors locked, especially at night, and stop only at gas stations or farm stalls when necessary.
- Do not leave valuables in the car in plain sight.
- Store passports, travel documents, and valuables in the safe.
- Do not hike or swim alone, and do not go on remote hiking routes without a local guide.
- Keep an eye on your credit/debit card even when paying.
- Do not leave your phone or wallet on the table at a restaurant, especially while sitting outside.
- Do not accept help or distractions at ATMs.
- Withdraw only small amounts— it’s common (and safer) to pay by cheque or credit card almost everywhere.
- Ask your accommodation, tourist information, or locals for behaviour recommendations and information about potentially unsafe areas.
- When visiting Kruger Park, check with your accommodation about which gate is best for you.
- Anyone telling you that you need a “permit” to go somewhere is lying and may try to scam you. Do not go with this person to an ATM to withdraw money for the alleged permit — this is a scam.
- Download the Secura Traveller App for emergencies: https://securatraveller.co.za. This app allows you to get help at the push of a button in emergencies, guaranteed by a nationwide network. Whether it’s a car accident, medical emergency, criminal incident, or something else— help is available. The service costs 49 Rand for 30 days, and we can provide you with a voucher for the app.
Take your phone with you (check with your mobile provider about roaming) or buy an affordable prepaid device. Save the following emergency numbers:
- The general emergency number in South Africa is 10111.
- The Safety Tourism Hotline is 083 318 – 2475.
Current safety advice is also available from the Foreign Office.
Your Financial Security When Booking with Africa Golf & Travel:
Africa Golf & Travel is based in South Africa. In South Africa, there are no travel security certificates that can be issued to customers. Therefore, Africa Golf & Travel is a voluntary member of SATSA (South Africa Tourism Services Association). To become a member, certain requirements must be met, including an annual review of financial stability, proof of liability insurance, and professional risk insurance. Additionally, the service performance of members is checked by SATSA. If it does not meet the high standards, membership is immediately terminated. We do not offer package tours and therefore do not take the risk of making commitments with airlines or accommodations without underlying bookings. There is a joint fund that limits protection for customers of members in case of insolvency. If we make mistakes in bookings or payments, the damage would also be covered by the insurance required by SATSA.
You can read more about our membership and other information on the SATSA website: www.satsa.com
You can view our current membership certificate here: SATSA Certificate 2025
Your trip is important to us – we want you to feel completely comfortable and enjoy your vacation anticipation with a “good feeling.”