Canada Sends Urgent Travel Warning for South Africa Amid Alarming Rise in Violent Crime and Terrorism Risks Urging Tourists to Prioritize Safety

Published on December 13, 2025

In response to escalating safety concerns, Canada has issued an urgent travel warning for South Africa, urging citizens to exercise extreme caution due to the alarming rise in violent crime and terrorism risks. The advisory, issued on December 4, highlights the growing prevalence of incidents such as armed robberies, carjackings, kidnappings, and assaults, which have increasingly affected foreign visitors. With these serious threats looming, the Canadian government emphasizes the need for travelers to take proactive measures to protect themselves, especially in high-risk areas after dark, and to be vigilant in both urban centers and popular tourist spots.

Canada Issues Travel Advisory for South Africa Amid Growing Crime Concerns

Canada has issued a stern travel warning for its citizens planning to visit South Africa, citing escalating risks related to violent crime and personal safety. Released on December 4, the advisory urges travellers to exercise heightened caution due to the increasing frequency of criminal incidents, including violent assaults, kidnappings, hijackings, and even terrorism.

The Canadian government has expressed grave concerns about the widespread violent crime affecting both locals and foreign visitors across the country. Canadian authorities have reported a disturbing rise in incidents such as armed robberies, home invasions, carjackings, sexual assaults, and even murders. Foreign nationals have become frequent victims, and the advisory stresses the importance of complying immediately if confronted by criminals. It also advises against making sudden movements, resisting attackers, or making eye contact with assailants, as such actions can escalate the situation.

Travellers are urged to be especially cautious after dark when the risk of crime is heightened, particularly in major city centres and townships. It is recommended that visitors stay in accommodations with adequate security measures, ensuring doors and windows are locked at all times. Additionally, valuables should be kept out of sight to reduce the chances of attracting attention. The advisory highlights the importance of avoiding isolated areas, where the potential for criminal activity is higher.

Beyond violent crime, the warning also addresses the prevalence of petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, which are commonly reported in crowded areas like markets and popular tourist spots. Canada’s travel advisory stresses that visitors should remain vigilant by securing their passports and important documents, avoiding the display of jewellery or electronics, and being cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs or handling bank transactions. Additionally, it is advised not to leave bags unattended in public spaces, including restaurants and bars, where opportunistic thieves often target unsuspecting tourists.

A key portion of the advisory focuses on safety concerns surrounding South Africa’s major airports. There have been numerous reports of passengers being followed after arriving at airports and subsequently robbed. The advisory recommends planning airport trips during daylight hours, sticking to well-known routes, and seeking trusted local advice for safe travel routes. Cape Town International Airport, in particular, is flagged as a high-risk area, with recommendations to avoid certain roads like the R300 and Borcherds Quarry Road. Instead, travellers are urged to use safer alternatives such as the M3 and N2 highways.

Hotel and guesthouse theft remains a persistent issue, with travellers advised to be cautious when booking accommodation. Ensuring that hotels or guesthouses have robust security measures in place before confirming a reservation is recommended. Guests should also take extra care not to leave valuables unattended in their rooms. Simple safety precautions, such as keeping doors and windows locked at all times, are essential. Furthermore, travellers should verify the identity of anyone claiming to be staff before allowing them access to their room.

The threat of terrorism is another key concern in South Africa, with the Canadian government urging vigilance in public spaces. The advisory highlights the possibility of unexpected attacks targeting public areas frequented by foreign visitors. Potential targets for such attacks include government buildings, places of worship, transportation hubs, shopping centres, cultural venues, and tourist attractions. While South African authorities have successfully thwarted planned attacks in the past, the Canadian government continues to emphasize the importance of remaining alert in public spaces.

This warning from Canada follows similar advisories issued earlier in the year by the United States and China. In June, the U.S. government raised concerns over the ongoing risks posed by violent crime, civil unrest, and terrorism, urging its citizens to exercise increased caution while in South Africa. The U.S. advisory specifically noted the continuing threats of robbery, carjackings, and violent crimes, particularly after dark in urban areas. Additionally, the U.S. expressed concerns over the kidnapping of foreign nationals, sometimes for ransom or the extraction of bank details.

Similarly, China issued a travel advisory in May after a series of violent crimes targeting its nationals, including kidnappings and a fatal home invasion. The Chinese embassy in South Africa advised its citizens to avoid high-risk areas and to prioritize accommodations and workplaces with strong security infrastructure.

As South Africa grapples with growing concerns over safety, international governments are intensifying their warnings, urging travellers to take extra precautions when visiting the country. The rising tide of violent crime has led to increased caution among foreign governments, prompting citizens to reconsider travel plans or alter their safety strategies to mitigate the risks associated with the region.

Canada has issued an urgent travel warning for South Africa due to rising violent crime and terrorism risks. The advisory highlights the increasing threats to foreign visitors, urging Canadians to take extra precautions, especially in high-risk areas.

For Canadian travellers, following the guidelines outlined in the advisory is essential to ensure personal safety and reduce the likelihood of falling victim to crime. This advisory serves as a reminder of the importance of being proactive, staying aware of one’s surroundings, and taking preventive measures to stay safe in high-risk environments.