New Zealand joins Canada, U.S. and UK in warning citizens about travel to South Africa ahead of Easter holidays

New Zealand has joined Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom in issuing fresh travel warnings to citizens planning trips to South Africa ahead of the Easter holiday period, citing rising concerns over violent crime, scams and broader security risks.

• New Zealand, Canada, the US, and the UK have updated travel warnings for citizens visiting South Africa during the Easter holidays due to increased violent crime, scams, and broader security concerns.
• Canada highlighted frequent occurrences of violent crime, especially in city centers and around airports, and also warned of health concerns like diphtheria outbreaks.
• The UK emphasized risks of scams, cybercrime, and flood hazards in addition to violent crime, warning travelers to be cautious with business deals, visas, and online interactions.
• The US and New Zealand described South Africa's crime level as very high and flagged risks of public unrest, terrorism, and civil disruptions, while advising comprehensive travel insurance.

Canada, United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand have all highlighted violent crime and targeted attacks on foreigners, even as tourism demand continues to rise.

Canada’s advisory, described violent crime as widespread, noting that incidents such as armed robberies, carjackings, assaults and kidnappings occur frequently across the country.

It added that major city centres, townships and isolated areas are particularly affected, especially after dark.

Airport attacks and health concerns flagged by Canada

The advisory also highlighted security risks around Cape Town International Airport, where travellers have reportedly been followed and robbed after arrival.

“Passengers have been followed upon arrival at airports and then robbed either on their way to or once they arrived at their final destination,” it said.

Travellers were advised to use major routes such as the M3 and N2 highways and avoid secondary roads, including Borcherds Quarry Road near Nyanga.

In addition to crime, Canada also flagged health concerns, adding diphtheria to its advisory and warning of an outbreak in several countries, including South Africa.

UK highlights scams and flood risks

The United Kingdom Foreign Office warned of violent crime in South Africa, alongside risks linked to fraud, cybercrime and environmental conditions in its updated travel advice.

It cautioned that “heavy rainfall often causes widespread flooding” and noted there is a year-round risk of disruption, urging travellers to monitor weather conditions, particularly in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

“Be alert to the risk of scams, including through business or job opportunities, visa services or offers of romance and friendships,” the UK advisory said.

U.S. and New Zealand highlight broader risks

The United States described crime levels as “very high” and maintains South Africa at Level 2 in its travel advisory system, urging citizens to “exercise increased caution.”

The advisory, last updated in May 2025, warns of common violent crimes including robbery, rape, carjackings, muggings and “smash-and-grab” attacks on vehicles.

It also referenced a planned demonstration near the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, underscoring the risk of public gatherings.

New Zealand similarly warned of “a very high level of violent crime,” alongside risks linked to carjacking, civil unrest and terrorism threats.

It also cautioned travellers about frequent power outages and advised those visiting or living in South Africa to maintain comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation.

Warnings not new as more countries issue alerts

This is not the first time countries have raised concerns about safety in South Africa.

Late last year, Business Insider Africa reported that Canada, Australia, the United States and China had all updated their advisories in the months and weeks leading into the Christmas and New Year holidays, cautioning travellers about crime and security risks.