Safety tips to know before visiting Soweto

Although crime is always something to keep in mind, Soweto is not more dangerous than any other place for a tourist to visit.

The crime rate in Soweto is actually fairly low and the people are kind and helpful. You can go on a Soweto tour at night, provided you are aware of your surroundings and follow some common safety tips.

Here are the common safety tips you need to know:

1. Keep your windows closed when driving around Soweto, especially when passing through built-up areas and stopping at traffic lights and intersections. Hire an air-conditioned vehicle to avoid closing the windows on hot days. Make it a habit to lock your car doors as soon as you get in and to keep them locked. This is to keep petty criminals from stealing valuable items at traffic lights by opening one of the car doors.
2. Read up about common tourist scams and be careful where you keep your valuables. Keep them hidden, preferably in the trunk. Don’t leave items like your camera or laptop on the seat while driving, as this makes you a target for a ‘smash and grab.’ Be careful of where you take out your wallet. And, don’t believe all the sad stories the beggars at traffic lights tell you. Carrying large sums of money is not advisable. Credit cards are widely accepted and far more secure.
3. Before starting your Soweto tour, fill up your gas tank. This way, if you miscalculate any distance, you won’t have an empty tank. Don’t risk parking on the side of the road because you’re out of gas.
4. Save important phone numbers that you can call in an emergency, such as a breakdown service or the local police department. Car rental companies should provide you with the names of towing companies that their customers use. If you suspect a mechanical problem with the car you rented, don’t be afraid to contact the car rental company.
5. Keep your destination in mind and be aware of your surroundings. Plan your route ahead of time, hire a car with GPS, or use an app like WAZE to get directions to your destinations. Before leaving your hotel, enter Vilakazi Street into your GPS app and familiarise yourself with the route.
6. Avoid travelling after dark. Plan your day so that you arrive back at your hotel before or shortly after sunset. If you want to go out to eat in Soweto, go to a restaurant on busy and well-lit Vilakazi Street and park in a well-lit area.
7. When exploring on foot and in public areas, stick to well-lit and tourist-friendly areas. Avoid any suspicious-looking areas, empty alleyways and side streets. Know where you are going and don’t aimlessly wander around. Don’t ask strangers on the street for directions if you need them, rather ask for directions at a hotel or shop. If you are unsure about the safety of an area, call a police station for advice and assistance. Also, do not walk around staring at your phone. Keep your phone, purse, and other valuables hidden. Display no valuables or excessive jewellery. Rather than standing out as a wealthy tourist, try to blend in. Never put your bag down and then turn your back on it or walk away from it.
8. Never pick up strangers or hitchhikers and never give money to strangers or hitchhikers. Donate to registered charities instead. Don’t try to fight off robbers or be a hero. Instead, cooperate and prioritise your own safety over worldly possessions. Although thefts and robberies do occur, homicides and violent crimes against tourists are extremely rare. Be wary of people who approach you or try to distract you at traffic lights and when on foot. If you’re feeling uneasy, go into a nearby store. Report any criminal incidents to the police.

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