## Is South Africa Safe to Travel in 2016?
South Africa is a country that has a lot to offer tourists, with its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. However, the country has also been plagued by high levels of crime in recent years, which has led some travelers to wonder whether or not it is safe to travel to South Africa in 2016.
### Crime in South Africa
South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world, and violent crime is a particular problem. In 2015, there were over 18,000 murders in the country, as well as over 60,000 reported cases of sexual assault. This means that tourists need to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime.
### Safety Tips for Tourists
There are a number of things that tourists can do to stay safe in South Africa. These include:
* **Be aware of your surroundings.** Pay attention to the people and vehicles around you, and be wary of anyone who seems suspicious.
* **Avoid walking alone at night.** If you do have to walk alone at night, stick to well-lit areas and be aware of who is around you.
* **Don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewelry.** This will make you a target for theft.
* **Keep your valuables safe.** Store them in a safe place in your hotel or rental car.
* **Be careful when using ATMs.** Use ATMs that are located in well-lit areas and avoid using them at night.
* **Report any suspicious activity to the police.** If you see something that you think is suspicious, don’t hesitate to report it to the police.
### Is it Safe to Travel to South Africa in 2016?
Despite the high levels of crime, South Africa is still a relatively safe country to travel to. However, tourists need to be aware of the risks and take precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime. By following the safety tips listed above, you can help to ensure that your trip to South Africa is a safe and enjoyable one.
### Additional Tips
In addition to the safety tips listed above, here are a few additional tips to help you stay safe in South Africa:
* **Learn some basic self-defense techniques.** This can help you to protect yourself if you are attacked.
* **Stay informed about current safety conditions.** The South African government provides regular updates on the safety situation in the country. You can find this information on the South African Police Service website.
* **Consider using a tour operator.** This can help you to avoid some of the risks associated with travel in South Africa.
* **Trust your instincts.** If you feel unsafe in a particular situation, don’t hesitate to leave.
### Conclusion
South Africa is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of crime and to take precautions to stay safe. By following the tips listed above, you can help to ensure that your trip to South Africa is a safe and enjoyable one.