The Canadian government has issued a stark travel advisory for its citizens planning to visit South Africa, designating the country as a high-risk destination. The advisory, released on December 4, urges travelers to exercise a high degree of caution due to a significant level of serious crime, which encompasses a wide array of dangers.

The list of reported crimes is extensive, including armed robberies, home invasions, carjackings, sexual assaults, and murders. A particular concern highlighted is "express kidnappings," a terrifying ordeal where victims are abducted and forced to withdraw money from ATMs, sometimes being held overnight to facilitate a second withdrawal. These warnings align with similar advisories issued earlier in the year by the United States and China, underscoring a consistent pattern of concern regarding traveler safety.

Strict instructions are provided to help travelers mitigate risks. Tourists are advised to avoid roads at night, especially in city centers and townships after dark. Specific danger zones include Cape Town's airport route and city centers after dark. When traveling to Cape Town airport, visitors are explicitly warned to stick to the N2 highway and strictly avoid Borcherds Quarry Road, which has been the site of numerous attacks.

Additional safety measures include keeping valuables hidden and exclusively using reputable tour operators. On the roads, drivers must remain vigilant as carjackings and smash-and-grabs are described as common. Criminals employ various tactics, such as throwing nails or rocks at cars or feigning distress to compel drivers to stop. The advice is clear: keep windows up, doors locked, and never stop to assist strangers on the road.

Furthermore, the advisory includes a specific caution for women and LGBTQ+ travelers, urging them to be especially careful due to reports of targeted violence and online scams. This comprehensive warning underscores the Canadian government's serious concerns regarding the safety of its citizens in South Africa.