UK Foreign Office warns Brits about popular holiday destination in latest update

It advised to ‘stay aware of your surroundings’

When heading abroad, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides travel advice about the risks you may face.

As it discussed the latest in South Africa, which welcomes around 400,000 people a year, the FCDO shares that there is “new information about e-hailing and taxis and updated information about the political situation, crime locations and Kruger National Park.”

It says on the official security and safety page that there is a “high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets”, as it added to “stay aware of your surroundings at all times."

While it warned that “terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa”, it noted that the “main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh, and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks.”

Visitors have been urged: “Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”

Where crimes can occur and which places to avoid

The FCDO notes that violent crime can happen anywhere, including tourist areas and transport hubs.

However, it added that it is most common in townships, informal settlements, crowded areas, some city centres, and isolated places, with the risk higher at night.

“There have been violent incidents involving tourists at popular tourist locations. There are usually security personnel in the main tourist areas who can assist tourists. However, policing and security is limited, so always be cautious”, it added.

“Avoid isolated beaches, picnic spots and local transport hubs. Do not walk alone in remote areas or on beaches when deserted, especially when it is dark.”

It also warns: “Be wary of unregulated drivers posing as Uber or other taxi app drivers, especially at airports. If you book a taxi, wait in a designated taxi pick-up area, if there is one.”

Further, it explains: “Tensions between e-hailing app and metered taxi drivers have led to armed violence and fatalities, particularly around Gautrain stations and at airports. Strikes and protests by taxi app drivers take place, sometimes with attacks against drivers not seen to be participating.”

“Passengers have also faced harassment or violence. E-hailing apps generally warn about high-risk areas, but be cautious using these services. During strikes, use alternative reliable private transportation. Plan your journey so that you can avoid busy areas such as taxi ranks and transport hubs.”

To keep up-to-date with travel advice, here is where you can check the Foreign Office's A-Z list.