South Africa is a place many people love to visit. It has high mountains, beautiful beaches, and fun cities full of life. Tourists come from all over the world to see these amazing sights. It is known as one of Africa’s top travel spots. But while it’s beautiful and exciting, people also talk about safety in some of its cities.
A recently released Crime Index ranks cities based on residents’ lived experiences and perceptions of crime, including violent attacks, robbery, car theft, corruption, and overall safety. This year, several South African cities placed among the first to tenth most dangerous cities in the world and in Africa.
Here are the top 5 most dangerous cities in South Africa according to the Numbeo Crime Index: 
1. Pietermaritzburg – Crime Index: 82.7
With a crime index of 82.7, Pietermaritzburg ranks as the most dangerous city in the world and in Africa. The residents are said to battle high rates of violent crime and property theft. Crime index reports say safety concerns remain a daily reality for many communities, but the local authorities are making efforts to restore security.
2. Pretoria – Crime Index: 81.8
Holding a crime index of 81.8, the administrative capital is a very dangerous city to live in. Armed robberies and car hijackings frequently reported. Despite its political importance in country, crime remains a recurring issue.
ALSO READ: Why 10.5 Million Visitors Agree South Africa Is A Must-See
3. Johannesburg – Crime Index: 80.8
At 80.8 on the crime index, the economic powerhouse of the country struggles with persistent criminal activities like hijackings, burglaries, and other severe violent incidents. Many residents rely heavily on private security.
4. Durban – Crime Index: 80.4
Recording 80.4 on the crime index, the beautiful city of Durban faces record-breaking safety challenges. It ranks as the 6th most dangerous city in the world and the 4th in South Africa. Armed robbery and gang-related activities affect several areas in Durban. Although, tourism thrives in here, the security of tourists remains a major concern.
5. Port Elizabeth – Crime Index: 78.3
With a crime index of 78.3, Port Elizabeth city ranks as the 8th most dangerous city in the world and the 5th in South Africa. It is a major seaport and the largest city in the Eastern Cape province; however, residents often voice worries about public safety.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in the World
| Rank | City | Crime Index | Safety Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pietermaritzburg, South Africa | 82.8 | 17.2 |
| 2 | Pretoria, South Africa | 81.8 | 18.2 |
| 3 | Caracas, Venezuela | 81.4 | 18.6 |
| 4 | Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea | 81.3 | 18.7 |
| 5 | Johannesburg, South Africa | 80.8 | 19.2 |
| 6 | Durban, South Africa | 80.4 | 19.6 |
| 7 | San Pedro Sula, Honduras | 79.4 | 20.6 |
| 8 | Port Elizabeth, South Africa | 78.6 | 21.4 |
| 9 | Memphis, TN, United States | 78.5 | 21.5 |
| 10 | Salvador, Brazil | 76.5 | 23.5 |
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