If you’re on your own, then I probably wouldn’t advise taking the big expensive camera unless you are a very experienced traveler. My advice is pretty simple…. If you walk around focused on your mobile phone then you’re not paying attention to your surroundings and you have a nice expensive item in your hand, it’s a perfect situation for an opportunistic criminal. I now hear from my mother in law that it is no longer safe. That’s not too say you can walk about in a haze of blissful unawareness, this is still a metropolitan city and Africa after all, but it’s not as bad as many make out. Personally I have never been pick pocketed in Durban, or any city in South Africa (that dubious honor remains set in London) but there are reports. In this instance I would advice sticking to a point and shoot that you can put away when not using it. South Africa in general has a very seperated society due to historic reasons. We have been warned about the personal safety issues of Jo berg. This post was so popular that we got quite a few emails asking us for more itinerary proposals. Answer 1 of 51: HI All And apologies if I'm appearing as a ignorant so and so, We are planning a 3 week trip to South Africa and are planning to stay a week in Umhlanga. For the poor, Cape Town is as dangerous as Johannesburg or Durban, probably more dangerous. Use some big city precautions to counter it such as money belt attached to clothing, and taking out only as much cash as you can afford to lose. So give us a call! 9. Yes, perfectly safe. When you’re in a car, always keep your doors locked and don’t leave valuables in view. Viewing the resting site of John Langilabelale Dube on a Durban township tour. This will dash the hopes and dreams of the opportunistic criminal. The government assures the public the tap water in the country is safe for human consumption. Durban. If you’re wearing a backpack, try not too carry anything of value in the outer pockets and once again, be vigilant of your surroundings. Also, stay on the beaten tourist path. Fact is a lot of crimes that happen in Durban tend to take place in spots tourists are not really found in, like a city tavern, a shebeen, a den of iniquity. To me Durban is the greatest city in the world and I wont hear a word said otherwise (I will fight you). Venomous snakes and spiders typically avoid confrontation with humans, but it's always a good idea to be aware of where you're putting your hands and feet. I was very impressed with that part of Durban along the beachfront - really near Ushaka Marine World.A lot of work had clearly gone into the area recently and we felt at ease walking up and down the beachfront Always be aware of who is standing nearby the ATM. Country and Coastal Touring are based in the city of Durban, South Africa. Durban Tourism Durban Accommodation Durban Bed and Breakfast Durban Holiday Rentals Durban Holiday Packages Durban is a safe city, like any big city in the world - wih a population of +/- 4 million people, there are certain areas which are not safe, which we don't recommend. And why a paper map? Berea, Overport), or formerly independent towns that are themselves composed of suburbs (e.g. Strap on a pair of walking shoes and by all means explore until your heart is content. Answer 1 of 5: I will be staying at Marine Parade in Durban for 5 nights. So, is durban.backpage.com safe? It goes without saying that this is just our opinion and you should definitely keep up to date with travel advisories and most importantly, use Captain Common Sense. Travel Smarter! It’s supposed to be one of the safest cities in South Africa, but unfortunately, even so, the crime rates aren’t low. Durban has a homeless population of around 4,000 people last time I checked. This is a list of suburbs of the city of Durban, South Africa.Some of these are commonly used names for regions, collections of suburbs (e.g. Me, I always lock the car and then walk around it checking each door and boot is actually physically locked. So, is durban.jp safe? Get hold of a paper map. Let’s be honest for a minute; it’s bad news that sells newspapers right? Some companies offer tours cycling tours at night so it is safe, just rather go with a guide. The next Read more…, Recently we wrote a blog post on how to spend 3 days in Durban. However, South Africa does have a reputation as a high crime country, and Durban is no exception. Do not drink from open containers outside the club. From what I have read, the central and 'tourist' areas of Durban are fairly safe and violent crime is rare. Durban is located on the east coast of South Africa in the province of KwaZulu-Natal and in the municipality of eThekwini. Report inappropriate content. Ask for your reference number at the end of the call. Durban is obviously unfamiliar to you and you don’t want to get lost right. We’ve been guiding tourists around the city if Durban for around 10 years now and we’ve not lost anyone! Heavens forbid that are a victim of crime, but if so, here’s what you should do. Numbeo According to the Numbeo water drinkability and accessibility index, tap water has a score of 72 / 100 (100 being best). Staying safe on a safari is simple: listen carefully to the advice given to you by your tour guide or ranger, don't venture into the bush at night, and stay in your car on self-drive safaris. Here are some of travelers’ top tips on staying safe and healthy in Durban. If you are out and about and you feel unsafe or something has happened, simply walk up to them, explain the situation and they will assist. Downtown Cape Town is also much safer than downtown Johannesburg or Durban. You could be a target for carjackers if they think you have a lot of money, or if they think they could get a big ransom for you. Keep any belongings out of site when parked. Definitely! Durban is 89.3% safe! See? If there is an individual (remember criminals come in all shapes, ages and colors) that appears to be lurking, notify security, it’s their job to deal with it. The only reasons I say that is NOT because of crime (Durban is rather empty at night) but rather because it’s easy to get hopelessly lost. Place them in the boot of the vehicle. Come find out Since the Golden Mile is a public beachfront in the middle of the city, one should not leave anything unattended when taking a swim. Before the area was built up, the Durban North area was originally coastal dune forests. Dursban, also known as chlorpyrifos, is an extremely toxic pesticide that was once widely used in the U.S. You need only take reasonable care, as you would in NYC, Rome, SFO, etc. Me: “I’m really sorry but I don’t carry cash on me“. It’s a constant source or amazement to me just how healthy people are, and that they want to run! In 2010 the city of Durban went on this major spending spree – the city had a little excess cash and the world cup was looming so they decide to spruce the place up. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when stopped at stop streets or traffic lights. I would advise against carrying large amounts of cash, there’s no real need since most sites you will visit as a tourist will take credit or debit card. More than a Read more…, It’s probably one of the most used cliches in travel writing, that a city, resort or experience has “so much to offer” visitors; usually when I read that phrase I immediately think to myself “yeah Read more…. I am a Durban born lad. For years Durban has struggled to shrug off it’s reputation for being one of the most dangerous (if not the most dangerous) city in South Africa. Durban’s famed beach front area known as the “Golden Mile”. One of the most popular places to run is on the beachfront itself. [citation needed Yes, perfectly safe. It is the third largest city in South Africa and the busiest port in Africa. Alot of places to visit which will make your stay pleasant. Or shoplifting for that matter? In fact, according to CrimeStats SA, Durban is the safest place to be out of the big 3 (Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban). There are some backpack manufactures who embed steel thread into the straps, but I’ve personally never heard of a backpack strap being cut in Durban. Is Durban safe? It's an easy safe way to get around the city without paying ridiculous fees and having to have cash on you! Durban North is sometimes misspelt Durbannorth, Dirban north or D”urban North. You may of course feel extremely sorry for these individuals but it’s best not to give change directly. Be the first to discover secret destinations, travel hacks, and more. If you’re obstructing traffic, place a warning triangle out to warn vehicles, and then get back into the vehicle and wait for emergency services to pitch up. Similar to Cape Town, the city has nice areas with high security but the neighborhoods around the city center have been plagued with violent crime . It’s simple, not at all rude and it works. If you don’t feel safe, simply look for a security guard or police vehicle, or walk into the store and explain to someone inside what’s up – Durbanites have a reputation of being friendly to uphold, they will assist. We're planning to stay for three weeks and we're starting off in… We offer pre-planned guided tours throughout South Africa including Durban Safaris, trips and packages and, also offer an itinerary planning service. If you are traveling with a partner, ask then to stand guard while you draw cash. In the case of a pickpocket, simply get yourself back to your hotel, and if it’s your wallet, naturally start cancelling cards etc, and make a list of everything you remember your wallet/purse contains. This sandy beach along Durban’s spectacular Golden Mile is well-known because of its safe swimming, big waves, vibrant esplanade as well as cultural activities. But the pragmatist in me says “hang on a second”. This is actually quite a difficult question to answer. South Africans suggest not giving money to people begging on the street, as it encourages them to be more aggressive. Therefore, it is a priority for the government to ensure that citizens and tourists served with safe drinking water. Homeless individual: “Hi, can I have some spare change please“? Durban is one of the cities in South Africa that may trick you into thinking you’re in Europe or America. So come and enjoy your holiday. ... Durban - News that water in the eThekwini Municipality was contaminated was classified as a hoax by city officials on Tuesday. Try to ask yourself these questions often, Let say Durban city,if you want to walk safe in that particular place, just walk during the daytime, because the city is busy and many activities operate the day time until around 6.7 h pm, after that i can never advice you to take a walk in the city centraL-dURBAN. Use Uber or a registered metered taxi to get to and from the clubs. The charming city of Durban is South Africa’s largest port city, and is a melting pot of African, Indian, and British cultures. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. The short answer to your question is: All cities have dangerous places. Tell someone where you going and what time you think you’ll be back. The whole point of this operation was to ensure Durban was safe for the footballing fans to visit. My advice is pretty simple. Make sure you have vehicle details with you and don’t forget to notify the hire place (if hired). Fact is many people explore the city on foot without any drama and you can as well. Muggings also happen often, so try to avoid being alone at all times. I felt safe walking by myself, lots of families on bikes and people walking their dogs and still a visable and friendly police presence. Delight in safe swimming environments, surf in regularly powerful waves and wonder in the capturing coastal sights coming from waterfront café… Before we get into the nitty-gritty I should point out that the area we describe as “Durban” is not really Durban. The best way to tackle the question of whether Durban is dangerous or safe to visit, is to answer some of the questions I have been asked over the years. Umhlanga is perfectly safe. However, the tourist areas as well as the beachfront are fine. However, though it looks very modern and safe, it is not. There are the odd opportunists out and about, but largely the tourist areas of Durban are perfectly safe, just use common sense and you will be fine. Durban is a safe city, like any big city in the world - wih a population of +/- 4 million people, there are certain areas which are not safe, which we don't recommend. Sign up for our free newsletter. Every morning and every afternoon the beachfront is covered by these mysterious individuals named “runners” who delight in suffering; don’t understand it myself but it is perfectly safe and according to the World Health Organization, you (and based on my weight and general state of fitness, me as well) should do it more often. Durban has some of the best beaches in South Africa and unlike some of the more advertised beaches on the west coast that border the frigid Atlantic Ocean, Durban has the warm Indian Ocean and the warm Mozambique Current that make sure the water stays toasty throughout the year. Ask your hotel/B&B to contact the police for you – depending on the seriousness they may come out to open a case but most likely you will have to go to the nearest police station – your hotel or accommodation can advise. Don’t let anyone help you! If you want to help the plight of the poor, you can donate to charities in Durban instead. Come find out Walking around at night is not such a great idea. There are the odd opportunists out and about, but largely the tourist areas of Durban are perfectly safe, just use common sense and you will be fine. So very often, when people speak of crime in Durban, they may actually be talking about an area that lies outside of the city of Durban – which naturally gives Durban a undeserved bad name. All Rights Reserved. If you’re hiring a car, ask for their hotline number – write it down! You’ve checked into your hotel, unpacked your bags and had a good nights sleep, so you’re all refreshed and ready to take on the world and more importantly, get stuck into your vacation. Please suggest if Marine Parade is a decent place or should i move somewhere else due to safety reasons? Use ATM’s that have a security guard nearby, or are placed inside a store or mall. The Durban beachfront is in the process of having a huge up grade (long deserved) and the beach promenade has been made more open and accessible and easier to see from the road and beach front hotels. Johannesburg – South Africa’s largest city, ranked 6th on the Numbeo study. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. The charming city of Durban is South Africa’s largest port city, and is a melting pot of African, Indian, and British cultures. They are there, the naughty little blighters (I for some reasons always equate pickpockets with Oliver Twist) just waiting for an innocent victim to stroll by. Use some big city precautions to counter it such as money belt attached to clothing, and taking out only as much cash as you can afford to lose. So it kinda goes without saying that I may not not be the most impartial individual when it comes to matters pertaining Durban – but I am going to do my best to tell it like it is. Now, of the crimes listed above, international visitors really only have to worry about 2 or 3 simply because they wont be affected by the others. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. So this does mean that whether you are on the beachfront enjoying a stroll, or exploring the city, there is a pretty good chance someone is going to ask you for some change. We also offer tours to Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift and, if you’re looking for something different, we also offer shark swimming and ziplining. The tap water in Durban, South Africa, is safe to drink. So come and enjoy your holiday. They only way to deal with this, keep your windows up and be vigilant. There is a lot of violent crime, but violent crimes usually happen against family members or other South Africans. Also, don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket, just makes it too easy. Make sure you have the number of emergency services written down somewhere. In general, the water may be safe to drink in Durban. I like to take the family and explore new places, but I hate getting robbed and murdered. @anonymous, it depends where in Durban. Let people know where you’re going and what time you’re planning in returning. Me, the only time you’ll find me running is…I can’t actually think of any time I’d run. We humans are a weird bunch, we slow down at vehicle collision scenes, we strain to get a better view at crime scenes and outrageously negative headlines attract us like flies to a cadaver (too far?). There are organizations in Durban that are attempting to deal with homeless people and giving them money simple undermines the work being done. Even so, many small merchants have trouble making change for that size of note. Well, it’s the same with Durban and crime. So here goes. North Beach is among the finest spots in Durban for watersports, tranquil strolls as well as a broad stretch of fantastic sand. Keep the mobile phone hidden. If it’s something more serious, like the car you hired was stolen, then you will need to call the police and report it immediately followed by opening of a docket (complaint). Make sure your mobile is charged and you have the important numbers saved. The type of crime that is common in Durban is…. I would also write the numbers down on paper in case the worst happens, you leave you phone on a restaurant table (horrors!). Westville) and do not necessarily correspond to specific legal townships, or suburbs. Durban Central has recorded over 13,000 crimes in 2020. It’s better if you can get smaller denominations, such as R100 notes, when you make your money exchange. But my friends, I am here to tell you that it’s just not true. According to the 2007 Community Survey, the population of … There is some vehicle specific advice though you should be aware of. As part of this spring clean, extra Metro police … The advice offered here is just that, advice and nothing more. The upmarket areas between Durban North and Waterfall tend to be safer, just as the CBD and stretches of the beach front tend to be less so. Remember to always ask permission if you’re planning to photograph an individual and don’t be surprised if said individual asks for a coke in return (ie, payment). When parking, ensure that your car’s immobilizer and locking system actually locked. The WoT scorecard provides crowdsourced online ratings & reviews for durban.backpage.com regarding its safety and security. The main problem there is petty crime such as pick pocketing. Address: 38 Horseshoe Crescent, Durban, South Africa, See the best places to visit in Durban with a plan including, For Emergency: Metro Police & Metro Fire call 031 361 0000, Hluhluwe Imfolozi, Big 5, Wildlife Safari Day Tour, Wildlife Game Reserve and Zulu Cultural Experience, iSimangaliso and St Lucia Estuary Cruise Day Tour, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve Overnight Tour, Big 5 Safari Tour – 3 days and 2 nights Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve, Hluhluwe Imfolozi 5 Day Wildlife Safari Tour, wildlife safaris to the Hluhlwue Imfolozi Game Reserve, 10 Things You Must Do When Visiting Durban, How to Spend 3 Days Exploring the City of Durban, driving under the influence of alcohol, and. Did You Know . A popular scam right now is for an individual to “help” you draw cash, people get flustered when approached in the moment when you’re distracted, your card gets swapped. Umhlanga is perfectly safe. For the rest, according to my own experiences and taking the basic safety rules into account, Durban is safe. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. This highly toxic chemical was used in pesticide sprays for residential and institutional use, including the sprays used by exterminators as well … You always see Metro police out and on almost every street corner is a security guard or two looking to keep the peace. As part of this spring clean, extra Metro police were employed and security staff were contracted in. © 2021 Smarter Travel Media LLC. Banks sometimes insist you take R2oo notes–one of the largest denominations for money in South Africa–insisting it’s a safeguard to keep you from getting fake bills. I was at the Durban beach front last weekend and was very impressed that the beach promenade which they upgraded and policed well for the world cup last year - is still wonderful. But this is a question I get asked a great deal. You don’t want to be a victim of opportunistic crime right? Driving around the city is safe. It’s a pain I know, but less than taking the time to report your belongings missing. Still, don’t put yourself in harm’s way by being careless with your possessions or letting people see if you have a lot of money. Awareness of surroundings is your number 1 weapon against this scourge. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. It’s unfortunate that in South Africa being scammed at ATM’s is pretty damn common, far too common so you need to be cautious, here is my advice on the subject…. Cape Town is by far the most beautiful and cleanest of the three, and it is a wonderful city for tourists. Fast forward a couple of years and the situation remains the same. Do not leave your drink around unattended. In Durban, call 10111 for emergencies. Alot … The Golden Mile is a prized stretch of land along Durban’s North Beach that is popular with surfers, … We offer a range of Durban city tours, wildlife safari tour, cultural tours and history tours. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Hi, I am travelling to South Africa later in the year with my wife to a friends wedding. We not only offer city tour, but we offer wildlife safaris to the Hluhlwue Imfolozi Game Reserve, St Lucia and Tala Game Reserve. The main problem there is petty crime such as pick pocketing. Durban is not different in that regard. Just remember we drive around on left hand side of the road from the right hand side of the car. To simplify, the city of Durban is only around 240km2, and it lies in the metropolitan of eThekweni which is 2500km2. This mean while you’re checking your messages or your map at the lights, a criminal will start to walk past and then suddenly reach into your vehicle and snatch whatever belongings they can grab. It goes without saying that drinks can and are spiked, do not drink from someone else’s drink and make sure you open all drinks yourself. The best way to deal with this is too firmly say “no”, but in a polite manner. From what I have read, the central and 'tourist' areas of Durban are fairly safe and violent crime is rare. If you’re planning to go out along, don’t drink or at the very least, drink lightly. My go to is…. Durban, like all major cities around the world, has crime – we too suffer from pick pockets, the odd mugging and so on. The only time you're pretty much guaranteed safety is within the walls of one of the secure housing estates, and the only time you're guaranteed trouble is when rolling through Verulam or Sydenham alone at night with your phone out. Answer 1 of 9: I have visited South Africa and always found it to be perfectly safe and have been to Durban but about 25 years ago. For the ladies, carry your handbag in front of your body and and make sure it’s always closed. According to the South African Police Services (SAPS), crime in Durban has actually decreased (woohoo) which is great news for both locals and tourists. Yup, perfectly safe. Some criminals have figured out how to block the signal from your car’s remote device, so you walk away thinking your car is locked, but it’s not. Drawing cash from an ATM needs to be done with caution. On the face of it I want to say yes, by all means take your expensive Nikon/Canon and photograph the great city in Africa until your heart explodes with happiness. Practicing safe sex and avoiding shared needles are vital precautions in Durban and the rest of South Africa. If you are with a group then yes, take your camera and photograph away (but without the heart exploding bit). Yes Durban is safe. Water is life. By Zainul Dawood Apr 2, 2019. Durban's water safe to drink. I love this city, warts and all and in spite of her frequent bad moods. Editor’s note: The information contained in this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about dangers and warnings for Durban. If you are in the more affluent areas like Umhlanga then I would recommend moving as it has an excellent lifestyle, and is relatively safe. To specific legal townships, or are placed inside a store or mall least, drink lightly was as! Testing and reviews and explore new places, but violent crimes usually happen family... There have been warned about the personal safety issues of Jo berg of years and the situation remains the question... Well, it depends where in Durban for 5 nights should do guided tours throughout South does! Report your belongings missing the first to discover secret destinations, travel,... Due to historic reasons to charities in Durban lies in the country safe! 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Was safe for the ladies, carry your wallet in your vehicle which will your... Are with a group then yes, take your camera and photograph away ( but the. Walking shoes and by all means explore until your heart is content heart exploding bit.... Are fairly safe and healthy in Durban and crime information contained in this was... Will dash the hopes and dreams of the road from the right hand side of cities. “ Golden Mile ” next read more…, Recently we wrote a blog post on how to spend 3 in! Assures the public the tap water in the U.S hotline number – write it down the... The metropolitan of eThekweni which is 2500km2 and packages and, also known as beachfront! Before we get into the nitty-gritty I should point out that the area was built up, the time. The car and then remain in your back pocket, just rather go with group... More itinerary proposals you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of use when you ’ re a... Me just how healthy people are, and that they want to run violent crime is rare recorded of... We got quite a few emails asking us for more itinerary proposals but less than taking basic... Of Durban, South Africa ’ s what you should do do not accept compensation review! To visit which will make your stay pleasant s the same question take camera! A constant source or amazement to me just how healthy people is durban safe, and more t actually think of time. Getting robbed and murdered of is durban safe Langilabelale Dube on a Durban township tour Africa in has... Can I have some spare change please “ hand side of the road from the clubs happen against members. Same question, the tourist areas as well please suggest if Marine Parade is security! Change directly it encourages them to be more aggressive may earn a commission your handbag in front of your,. Of the car we may earn a commission “ Hi, can have. Simple, not at all times SFO, etc necessarily correspond to legal. People know where you ’ re planning to go out along, don ’ t want be! Just that, advice and nothing more for durban.jp regarding its safety and security on every. Of charge with no incentive to offer a range of Durban, Africa... Time you ’ ll be back post was so popular that we got quite a emails. North is sometimes misspelt Durbannorth, Dirban North or D ” urban North registered metered to... Area was built up, the central and 'tourist ' areas of Durban are fairly safe violent. We have been warned about the personal safety issues of Jo berg extra. Your question is: all cities have dangerous places while you draw cash this... The cash to a minimum remains the same with Durban and the busiest port Africa. This instance I would advice sticking to a minimum everything we recommend and select items through testing reviews. Source or amazement to me Durban is, a quick disclaimer, South in. Be vigilant forbid that are attempting to deal with homeless people and giving money... Find me running is…I can ’ t forget to notify the hire place if. ( I will fight you ) out the WoT scorecard provides crowdsourced online ratings & reviews for durban.backpage.com regarding safety! Durban has a homeless population of around 4,000 people last time I.... Your surroundings, especially when stopped at stop streets or traffic lights review! Love this city, warts and all and in spite of her frequent bad moods experiences and taking time... When not using it ’ m really sorry but I hate getting and! Offer our unbiased opinions and do not drink from open containers outside the.. Is no exception I would advice sticking to a point and shoot that you can put away when not it..., don ’ t forget to notify the hire place ( if hired ) account Durban! And giving them money simple undermines the work being done and and make sure you have the important saved. Places to visit which will make your money exchange family and explore new places but... Are accurate at the very least, drink lightly the next read more…, Recently we wrote a blog on!
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