South Africa: Pretoria downplays latest US travel advisory
Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – The government on Friday said it had noted the recent update by the United States Department of State to its travel advisory for South Africa.
This was after the US said violent crime was common, specifically in downtown areas of big cities, especially after dark.
The US warned that kidnapping posed a threat in South Africa, with criminals specifically targeting US citizens and other foreign travellers.
“Though rare, some kidnappings involve demanding ransom from families," the department said.
Pretoria said it respects the sovereign right of all nations to provide guidance to their citizens travelling abroad, “but it is important to offer broader context and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of all visitors to our country”.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said “South Africa remains one of the most sought-after and rewarding travel destinations in the world and is known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and the warm hospitality of its people”.
“While challenges such as crime exist, as they do in many countries globally, the overwhelming majority of international visitors travel safely and leave with positive, enriching experiences. Visitor safety is, and continues to be, a national priority. It is actively addressed through a range of coordinated efforts between government, law enforcement, the tourism sector, and local communities,” de Lille said.
Pretoria said it was worth highlighting that travel demand from the United States remained robust. In 2024, arrivals from the US returned to pre-pandemic levels and the United States surpassed the United Kingdom as South Africa’s largest source market. In the first four months of 2025 alone, South Africa welcomed 111,491 visitors from the USA “reaffirming the destination’s enduring appeal and strong market confidence”.
“We are engaging closely with the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation on this matter and wish to reassure all travellers that South Africa remains open, welcoming, and committed to ensuring a safe and pleasurable journey for all who visit,” de Lille added.
-0- PANA CU/RA 6June2025
