This city has been voted one of the best to visit in 2024 – but be warned of its dangerously high crime rates.
Cape Town in South Africa has long been a popular spot for Brits wanting to explore the glorious beaches and walking trails, but it is also home to its fair amount of crime.
The UK Foreign Office deem it safe to travel to, but violent crime is high in the city centre.
Mexico’s Citizen Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice even ranks it among the most dangerous cities in the world.
But crime rates differ depending on which area you visit, with parts frequented by tourists having tight security and most find visits generally trouble free.
There have been attacks on hikers in more remote areas, with guides recommended for tourists wanting to take on some of the trails.
In the city centre, there are hotspots for mugging, so its best to avoid these areas when travelling. For solo female travellers, it is considered one of the most dangerous places to visit with horrifying rape and gender-based violence statistics.
And while many women do solo travel around Africa, there are important precautions to take, like staying in hotels with high security and not travelling after dark.
But despite its high crime rates, Cape Town is still widely visited by Brits, with Time Out naming it as the second best city to visit in 2024.
According to Time Out, 100 percent of locals said the city is beautiful and makes them happy, filled with culture and unique experiences for tourists.
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is considered one of the most popular attractions in the city, offering tourists a five minute cable car ride to the top of the mountain.
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is also a popular spot for tourists, with many opting to stay in this area that sees lower crime rates than the rest of the city.
It is also home to markets serving up local cuisine and an array of retail stores, perfect for travellers in search of souveniers to take home.
