People have been warned (Image: Getty)
The Foreign Office updated its website on June 11, urging travellers to remain alert. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) offers travel guidance regarding potential risks when heading overseas
Discussing the latest in South Africa, which welcomes around 400,000 people annually, it shares that there is “new information about e-hailing and taxis and updated information about the political situation, crime locations and Kruger National Park.”
On the official security and safety page, it says 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. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
Warning that “terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa”, it notes 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.”
Attacks could be indiscriminate and may target public places frequented by foreigners, including tourist sites, shopping centres, high-profile events, and other crowded areas. It urges visitors: “Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”
It explains that violent crime can occur in any location, including tourist areas and transport hubs. However, it is more frequently reported in townships, informal settlements, busy or crowded areas, certain city centres, and isolated locations, with increased risk during nighttime.
It says: “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.
“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.”
E-hailing and taxis warning
Scammers target people using e-hailing taxi apps in major cities.
- Use an internationally recognised service
- Book through the e-hailing app
- Identify a place of safety until the vehicle arrives; do not wait in the street
- Check the vehicle registration and ID before entering
- Do not display your phone or valuables
- Ask the driver to close the rear windows and lock the doors if you cannot do so yourself
- Check the e-hailing app for extra security features, and consider using them
It 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.”
It further 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.
“Minibus Taxis follow informal drop off and pick up principles with poor road discipline. These are minimally regulated and standards of vehicle maintenance can vary. Altercations with other road users and erratic driving is common.”
Kruger National Park attack
In addition to crime, it also notes that there was a frightening incident in one of its national parks. It writes: “After a violent attack killed a tourist in the Kruger National Park, SANParks advise against using the Numbi gate.
“There have been protests and violent incidents on the R538 road leading to the gate. In May 2026, 2 local tourists were killed in a rare violent incident within the park and the suspects were arrested.
“You can fly directly to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Many people also choose to take a private tour or drive overland themselves. If you stay outside the park, contact your lodge in advance to find out if any disruptions will affect your trip.”
In a statement on the SANParks website, it states: “The management of South African National Park has learned with shock and sadness of the discovery of bodies of two tourists in the Pafuri section (Nxanatseni North Region) of the Kruger National Park on Friday, May 22, 2026.
“A search operation was launched on Thursday, 21 May 2026 evening after camp staff noticed the tourists had not returned to camp. The search continued on Friday, May 22, 2026, leading to the gruesome discovery of two bodies near a river area by other tourists.
“Rangers were alerted and it was also established that the vehicle the tourists had been travelling in was missing from the scene. It is the first time in the history of the Kruger National Park that an incident of this nature has been reported, sadly reacted the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp.” You can read about the incident in full here.
Political situation
In its final update, it cautions that protests in South Africa may occur frequently and can become violent, posing risks to both participants and bystanders.
GOV.UK writes: “There are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa, which can turn violent at short notice. Violence could affect participants and bystanders anywhere in the country.
“There has been an increase in xenophobic and anti-immigration marches and violence, primarily targeting African immigrants and those perceived to be African immigrants. Avoid areas where protests, demonstrations or marches are taking place, especially in city centres and townships. Do not cross protester roadblocks. This could provoke a violent reaction. Monitor local and social media for updates, including local radio. Where possible, stay on main roads. Be aware GPS could lead you to less secure areas.”
You can check the Foreign Office’s A-Z list here to keep up-to-date with travel updates. You can also sign up to its email alerts here.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
