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Homepage / Getting Ready / Safety & Security
Safety & Security

Safety tips for tourists

In general

Call the Tourism KZN hotline - If you are a victim of crime or have an emergency while on holiday, call the TKZN customer care line on 0860 1010 99. They will assist you in any way possible.

Getting here

Visa requirements - Visa policies are subject to change and it is always best to check visa requirements at least three months before departure. Check with the South African Department of Home Affairs for visa requirements for your country of origin.

Vaccinations - Yellow fever certificates are required if the journey starts or entails passing through the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America. Check with your local travel advisory for any additional information prior to departure.

In case of injury - As with all travel, visitors are advised to take out travel insurance to cover the cost of private hospital treatment. If you are injured or become ill, your hotel or guest house will be able to direct you to the closest doctor or hospital. Bring your passport and any travel insurance documentation with you.

On the street

  • Take care of your belongings - You are on holiday to relax, but please remain aware of your cameras, bags, phones, wallets, jewellery and other valuables, and keep them close. Most petty theft is opportunistic, so don't provide the opportunity!
  • Use your credit card - For peace of mind, use your credit card for purchases, and carry only small amounts of cash when out sightseeing.
  • Be aware of your surroundings - and avoid poorly-lit &/or unpopulated areas, especially at night. If you are unsure about where to go, ask your hotel or local tourist information office for directions and information.
  • Consult a policeman - if you require any assistance, approach uniformed police officers.
  • Make safe transport and sightseeing arrangements - should you require a taxi, ask your hotel or the nearest tourist information office to recommend a reliable service, and to advise you of areas safe to visit on foot.

In your hotel /holiday residence

  • Keep valuables and important documents in your hotel safe, or on your person - Losing a passport or other important documentation is a major inconvenience. Please take care of these items and keep them separate from your general luggage.
  • Ensure that your luggage is secure - just like anywhere else in the world, please do not leave your luggage open or unattended.
  • Keep your room door locked - Whether you are in your room or not, keep your room door locked. If someone knocks, verify who it is before opening the door to them.

In your vehicle

  • Know your routes - Plan your route in advance and find out about the local road conditions. Some roads, especially in rural areas, can have pot holes and other hazards.
  • Drive safely - Fasten your seatbelts, keep to the speed limit, and keep your vehicle's doors locked. It is best to have windows open 5cm or less.
  • Keep valuables safe - Do not leave handbags or valuables visible on the seat or floor of your vehicle; remember to stow bags and other valuables in the vehicle's boot or trunk.
  • Remain undistracted when driving - Do not use your cellphone whilst driving; if necessary, use a hands-free car phone kit. Drivers are prohibited from consuming alcohol or narcotics which affect concentration in any way.
  • Do not pick up hitchhikers - Never pick up hitchhikers, or offer any strangers a ride in your vehicle.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at traffic lights and stop streets - take note of people, vehicles and conditions around you, when approaching a traffic light or stop street.
  • Park safely - always park your vehicle in a well-lit area.

On the beach

  • Swim within designated swimming areas only - Ensure that you and your loved ones swim only within safety beacons at designated swimming beaches that are manned by lifeguards.
  • Obey the lifeguards /lifesavers - Always heed the instructions of lifeguards on our beaches.
  • Attract lifeguards when in trouble - If you experience any difficulties while swimming, raise one hand above your head and attract the attention of the lifeguards.
  • Do not take valuables to the beach - Do not bring important documents or valuable to the beach; always leave these in a safety deposit box or safe, at your hotel.
  • Do not carry glass bottles - It is unwise to carry glass bottles or glass containers to the beach.
  • Refrain from alcohol consumption - Avoid consuming alcohol while swimming or approaching the water at beaches. It could affect your reaction to any emergencies that arise.
  • Do not leave belongings unattended - While swimming, make sure that your wallet and other belongings are being watched by a friend or family member, or stow belongings in a locker.

When visiting traditional /rural areas

  • Find out about the area - Know about the cultures and practices in the area you are going to visit, and ensure that you know how to observe protocol.
  • Use reputable tour operators and guides - Make sure that you use registered, qualified tour guides when arranging visits to traditional areas. Contact the nearest tourism information office for advice on the best routes to follow.
  • Malaria - Durban and most of KZN is malaria-free. However it is recommended that visitors to the far Northern game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal take a course of anti-malaria tablets from a doctor or chemist. For up-to-date information and advice, consult your doctor or travel clinic well before departure.

At the airports

  • Do not leave your luggage unattended - Always keep your luggage and belongings where you can see them.
  • Do not let anyone handle your luggage.
  • Make sure all bags and luggage have locks - Ensure that secure locks are fitted to your luggage.
  • Report suspicious people - If you feel uneasy about anyone around you, please go to the nearest security office and alert them to your concerns.

Useful Emergency Telephone Numbers

Police, Flying Squad & Emergencies 10111[landline calls]
Cellular phone: emergency line 112 [cellular calls]
Ambulance 10177
Metro emergency number +27 (0)31 361 0000
Tourist Support Unit +27 (0)31 332 5923
SA, Swaziland & Lesotho emergency number +27 (0)82 911
Department of Home Affairs +27 (0)31 308 7900
Mountain Rescue +27 (0)31 307 7744
Metro Police Control Room +27 (0)31 306 4422
Durban Metro Ambulance +27 (0)31 307 7744
Fire Brigade +27 (0)31 361 0000
Durban Africa: Tourist Junction +27 (0)31 304 4934
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As the world gets ready for this year’s FIFA World Cup, South Africa’s host cities have been preparing stadiums and infrastructure to ensure that it will be a memorable, exciting experience for all. Durban is famous as a family-friendly coastal destination, and those who visit for World Cup matches can spend time at Durban’s beautiful beaches. Online resources on Durban’s World Cup homepage can provide visitors with information on accommodation as well as attractions around the city which can be enjoyed in-between games.


Why Choose Durban for the FIFA 2010 World Cup?

In addition to Durban’s solid reputation as a seaside destination, Durban is also sunny most of the year round, with a warm sea temperature even in winter. Due to the sub-tropical climate, Durban experiences most of its annual rainfall in the summer – since the games will be taking place in winter, visitors can expect clear skies for the most part. Games played at other venues around the country can be viewed at a Fan Fest situated right on the beach, so that fans can cool down in the water at half time or after the game.

 

Durban Accommodation for the FIFA World Cup

There is plenty of accommodation to go round for the FIFA World Cup games held in Durban. There are many B&B accommodations within close proximity to the new stadium, and there are hotels in the heart of the city as well as game lodges in the bush a little way out of Durban. Some homeowners have also made plans to go away for the duration of the World Cup, so that it is possible to rent out fully-furnished homes rather than stay at a hotel or game lodge.

 

Transportation around Durban for the World Cup

In preparation for the World Cup, Durban’s entire transport system has undergone a makeover to ensure that affordable, safe and efficient transport will be available for all. The newly-built King Shaka International Airport enables visitors to travel to other cities where games are being held, so that they can not only see all their favourite teams in action, but can also experience the unique treasures of South Africa’s individual cities. It will be simple for visitors to get around, as the new stadium and the location of the Fan Fest has been planned in such a way that these locations are within walking distance of most accommodation.


Explore Culturally Diverse Durban during FIFA 2010

Durban is a culturally diverse city, where visitors can enjoy traditional African fare in addition to the spicy fare offered by Durban’s large Indian community, along with more Mediterranean cuisine. The buzz from the games will be electrified and visitors can go out and party with the locals until the small hours. Via online resources, visitors can keep abreast of events happening in Durban for the duration of the World Cup, and can make the most of their stay.