Solo Female Traveller's Safety Guide
Explore Cape Town Safely: A Solo Female Traveller’s Guide
Travelling to Cape Town as a solo female traveller can be an incredibly rewarding experience, filled with beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable adventures. While the city has its challenges, especially concerning safety, with the right precautions and knowledge, you can navigate Cape Town confidently. Here’s your comprehensive guide to staying safe and making the most of your solo trip to Cape Town.
Choosing Safe Locations to Stay
Cape Town offers a variety of neighbourhoods that are safer and more accommodating for solo female travellers. The City Bowl and its surrounding areas are ideal choices. Here, you’ll find a mix of Airbnb options, backpackers, and hotels, all situated in lively and secure parts of the city. Neighbourhoods like Sea Point, Green Point, Bree Street, Kloof Street, and Camps Bay are particularly recommended. These areas are not only safer but also vibrant, with plenty of nightlife, restaurants, and well-lit streets bustling with activity until late at night. Always ensure your accommodation has good security measures, such as 24-hour front desks or gated entries, to add an extra layer of safety.
Navigating Public Transport and Safe Travel Options
Public transport in Cape Town is limited, but the MyCiTi bus system is a safe and reliable option during the day, especially within the City Bowl and surrounding areas. For evening travel and destinations outside the bus routes, Uber is the safest choice. Despite its reputation, it's crucial to stay vigilant: verify your driver’s details, share your trip with friends or family, and use the CCID security officers in green vests to wait with you for your ride at night. Avoid using local taxis, as they can be less reliable and secure.
Selecting Secure Accommodation
When choosing accommodation in Cape Town, prioritize areas like the City Bowl, Sea Point, Green Point, Bree Street, Kloof Street, and Camps Bay. Whether you opt for an Airbnb, hotel, or backpacker lodge, ensure they have strong security measures. Many accommodations in these areas offer gated entries, security personnel, and check-in desks. For an enhanced experience, consider staying at one of Neighbourgood's secure co-living spaces. These properties provide a safe and friendly atmosphere, perfect for solo female travellers looking for both comfort and security. Additionally, downloading the Buzzer community safety app can provide real-time alerts and immediate assistance if needed.
Enjoying Cape Town's Nightlife Safely
Cape Town's nightlife is vibrant and varied, offering everything from chic bars to lively clubs. Stick to busy areas such as Sea Point, Bree Street, Kloof Street, and Camps Bay, where you’ll find plenty of entertainment options. Always stay aware of your surroundings, particularly when drinking. Order your own drinks and never leave them unattended. When it's time to head home, wait inside the venue for your Uber, rather than standing outside alone.
Exploring the Outdoors with Caution
Cape Town’s natural beauty is one of its biggest attractions, but solo female travellers should take certain precautions. Popular beaches like Saunders, Clifton, Glen Beach, Camps Bay, and Llandudno are generally safe, especially during the day. If you plan to stay until sunset, schedule your Uber in advance. For hiking, stick to well-trafficked paths such as Lion’s Head, the Camps Bay Pipe Track, and Newlands Forest. Joining hiking groups like Tuesday Trails or Chicks Who Hike can provide safety in numbers. Always carry a small canister of mace as a precaution.
Essential Safety Numbers and Tips
Having essential safety information at your fingertips is crucial. Save the numbers for local police stations and medical facilities:
Emergencies from Mobile - 112
South African Police Service - 10111
Medical & Fire - 021 535 1100
Table Mountain NP Emergencies - 021 480 7700
Sea and Mountain Rescue - 021 948 9900
Ambulance - 10177
Additional Safety Tips
Invest in a crossbody sling bag to carry your valuables.
Keep your bag zipped up and in front of you at all times.
Never keep your phone in your back pocket.
Make sure you have a portable charger so you never run out of phone battery.
Don't leave any of your possessions unattended.
Download apps like Uber and Buzzer, and make sure to save safety numbers and locations.
Always ask for the WiFi password when you arrive somewhere so that you can stay connected.
You can carry some cash on you, but cards are safer.
Always carry mace with you.
Don't walk alone in quiet or dark areas.
Trust your gut. If a situation feels off, find the nearest CCID security or use your Buzzer app to get help.
Final Thoughts
Travelling solo as a female in Cape Town requires more caution than some other destinations, but with the right preparations and a vigilant mindset, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By staying aware, choosing safe accommodations, and utilising reliable transport options, you can enjoy all that Cape Town has to offer while maintaining your safety and peace of mind. So pack your bags, trust your gut, and get ready for an empowering adventure in one of the world's most beautiful cities.
