Areas to Avoid in Pretoria
South Africa
|⚠️ ModerateHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Pretoria. Which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Certain parts of the CBD (Central Business District) after dark
Can be unsafe due to poor lighting, limited pedestrian activity, and potential for petty crime. It's advisable to use transport to get around this area at night.
Unfamiliar industrial or very isolated residential areas
These areas often lack tourist amenities and can pose safety risks due to low visibility and fewer people around.
General Safety Tips for Pretoria
At Night
Generally safe in well-lit, popular areas like shopping malls and restaurants in suburbs like Brooklyn. Exercise caution in the CBD and less populated areas; avoid walking alone.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise vigilance, especially when alone and at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, particularly in the CBD. Avoid walking long distances after dark. Use ride-sharing services for nighttime travel.
Emergency Number
10111
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Pretoria
- 1Overcharging by unregistered taxi drivers.
- 2Distraction theft (e.g., someone spilling something on you while an accomplice picks your pocket).
- 3Fake police officials demanding fines on the spot.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Brooklyn
An upscale, leafy suburb known for its high-end shopping, fine dining, and elegant residential areas.
Generally very safe during the day; nighttime is also safe with good lighting and security in commercial areas, but avoid poorly lit side streets.
Waterkloof
An affluent and peaceful residential area, home to many embassies and large, executive homes.
Extremely safe due to high security and affluent nature; nighttime is very secure.
Safety in Pretoria
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise vigilance, especially when alone and at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, particularly in the CBD. Avoid walking long distances after dark. Use ride-sharing services for nighttime travel.
At Night
Generally safe in well-lit, popular areas like shopping malls and restaurants in suburbs like Brooklyn. Exercise caution in the CBD and less populated areas; avoid walking alone.
Emergency
10111
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unregistered taxi drivers.
- 2Distraction theft (e.g., someone spilling something on you while an accomplice picks your pocket).
- 3Fake police officials demanding fines on the spot.