Tips & FAQs

Question

What are the emergency numbers?

Answer

Emergencies from a mobile: 112 Emergencies from a landline: 107 South African Police Service: 10111 Medical & Fire Emergencies: 021 535 1100 Table Mountain NP Emergencies: 021 480 7700 Sea & Mountain Rescue: 021 948 9900 National Sea Rescue Institute: 082 911 Baboon Monitors: 071 588 6540 Shark Spotters: 078 174 4244 Ambulance: 10177

Question

Is Cape Town safe?

Answer

Cape Town is a major, modern cosmopolitan South African city. As such, we would advise travellers 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. For the overwhelming majority of the 1,7 million foreign visitors to the Western Cape in 2018, a visit to Cape Town and the Western Cape was a positive, memorable experience.

Question

Safety Tips

Answer

-Avoid carrying large sums of cash, don’t carry cameras in plain sight and do not leave belongings unattended. -Avoid walking in deserted and dark places at night. Park in a secure, well-lit area with street guards. -Never allow strangers to assist you in any way at ATMs or cash points. -Street children and beggars may approach you. If you wish to help, consider giving food, donating to a registered charity or contact Cape Town Tourism for advice. -Keep copies of all valuable documents in a safe place. -When exploring Table Mountain, take a map, comfortable walking shoes, a few friends and a charged mobile phone. Be prepared for changing weather. Bring along enough water and sunblock, as well as something warm to wear. Head back well before dark and don’t venture away from the demarcated paths. Tell a friend where you are going and when you expect to return. Save Table Mountain emergency number +27(0)861 106 417 into your phone before going on a hike.

Question

Tips for Driving in Cape Town

Answer

-Have your keys ready as you approach your car. -Always lock your doors. u Park in well-lit areas at night. -Keep enough distance between your car and the one in front to enable you to change lanes and drive away in a hurry. -Don’t give lifts to strangers. -Look around before entering your driveway. -Be aware of strangers begging at intersections and avoid giving them money – rather give responsibly by donating to a known charity. -Never open your window when approached by a stranger. -If you think you are being followed drive to a busy place or a police station. -Keep your valuables out of sight – ie Stash it, don’t flash it. -After you’ve parked your car, make sure it is properly locked before you walk away, to ensure you don’t become a victim of thieves who use “remote jamming” devices.