Pretoria is one of the most populated, vibrant, and significant cities in the country, with tons of things to do and places to visit. Unfortunately, it has a reputation for being one of the more unsafe cities in South Africa. 

Are the claims of danger and crime in the city a cause for concern for tourists and residents? We’re here to find out!

Is Pretoria safe?

While Pretoria has a high crime rate and some unsafe areas, the city is generally safe. 

As one of the most populated cities in South Africa, Pretoria faces similar levels of crime and danger as most urban areas do. However, as long as you’re cautious and avoid isolated areas at night, being in Pretoria will be a wonderful, enriching experience. 

Pretoria’s High Crime Rate and Dangerous Areas

I think it’s important to highlight that reports of heightened danger and crime in Pretoria are slightly exaggerated. Numbeo’s 2025 Global Crime Index ranks Pretoria with a crime index of 82.1 (giving it the 2nd highest crime rate in the world), but note that this statistic isn’t fully reflective of the reality on the ground. 

In truth, while Pretoria does face criminal activity regularly, it’s generally safe for tourists and residents alike. It experiences the same levels of crime and danger as other urban areas around the world. 

The South African Police Service has noted that the most common crimes in Pretoria are kidnappings, thefts, drug-related crimes, fraud, and assault. 

They have recently issued the crime statistics for January to March this year, which show a significant rise in criminal activities within specific areas in the city, such as Pretoria Central Station, Mamelodi East and West, Garsfontein, Pretoria West, Brooklyn, and Akasia.

How do I keep safe in Pretoria?

Keeping safe in Pretoria, thankfully, doesn’t require any more extra effort than in any other urban city. Efforts are actively being made to quell crime in the city, and as long as you exercise caution and are aware of your surroundings, you’ll be able to avoid danger. 

The US Department of State’s Travel Advisory on travelling to South Africa advises tourists to avoid walking alone (especially at night), avoid big crowds, hide displays of wealth such as jewellery and smartphones, and keep room and car doors locked as much as possible, among other things. 

Here are other dos and don’ts that you can follow while in the Jacaranda City: 

1. Avoid isolated areas, such as alleyways, especially at night
2. Don’t leave valuables in your car
3. Keep emergency numbers in your phone
4. Make sure to ride a reputable ride-sharing service or taxi such as Uber, Lyft, inDrive and Cabify

In case of crime or emergencies, the number for the South African Police Service Pretoria Station is 08600 10111. Meanwhile, the Tshwane Emergency Services’ emergency number is 080 111 1556, and the City of Tshwane can be contacted at 107. 

As for public efforts being made, the Tshwane Emergency Services has dedicated officers from the greater Tshwane Metro Police Department to serve as patrol teams throughout Pretoria. 

The Good Side of Pretoria

All this being said, don’t let the high crime rate dissuade you from experiencing the vibrant, culturally rich city that is Pretoria. While danger lurks in its streets, there’s also a lot to love and stay for when you’re in Jakarandastad. 

For prospective Pretorians who are interested in moving, the city has no shortage of safe, heavily monitored places to live in. Specifically, neighbourhoods and gated communities such as Groenkloof, Lynwood, and Colbyn offer great, secure living areas. 

Furthermore, as an urban area with many prestigious universities such as the University of Pretoria and the University of South Africa, Pretoria is considerably safe for students. The major universities are located in secure, gated areas that are heavily guarded, while universities have their own contact numbers in case of emergencies. 

Meanwhile, tourists will find no shortage of things to do and places to see in Pretoria. With luxurious hotels, restaurants that serve delicious food, exhilarating waterparks, and all sorts of other cultural monuments and landmarks, Pretoria is a great city for travellers to explore.