Heavy rain and flooding has led to damage to infrastructure and to some transport links in the city of Durban, as well as other areas in KwaZulu-Natal Province. If you are travelling in the area, you should be aware of the risk of road closures and delays and some disruption to services. Follow the advice of local authorities, listen to local radio and check for any disruptions to your route or destination before starting your journey.

If you’re travelling to South Africa during coronavirus, see the Coronavirus page for more information.

During the COVID-19 pandemic it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check your cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Coronavirus page.

South Africa is currently under level 1 lockdown in response to COVID-19. Some public health restrictions still apply. For the latest information and guidance on COVID-19 in South Africa, see the Coronavirus page . You should ensure you can comply with South Africa’s Entry requirements before planning your travel.

There are regular protest marches, demonstrations, and periodic incidents of public disorder across South Africa, which can become violent. See Protests and demonstrations

Over 430,000 British tourists visited South Africa in 2019. Most visits are trouble-free, but a small number of British people encounter problems. You should take sensible precautions to protect your safety.

There is a high level of crime including rape and murder in South Africa. Most violent crimes tend to occur in townships, isolated areas and away from the normal tourist destinations. However, armed robberies have taken place in other places, for example one leading to the death of a tourist on Table Mountain in Cape Town. See Crime

There are special requirements for travelling to South Africa with children under the age of 18. See Travelling with children

Beach conditions and local safety provisions vary considerably throughout the South African coastline and every year several people drown due to the strong sea currents. See Water safety

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa. See Terrorism

British nationals are increasingly being targeted by scam artists. See Fraud and scams

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.