We have been thinking of travelling round South Africa for four weeks in July / August and have been very impressed by what South Africa has to offer.

However, we have heard lots of nasty stories about the level of crime and are wondering whether it would be safe for us to go?
It might all just be hype, but it has got us thinking about whether we should change our plans.
We would be grateful for any advice!

Also, if we do decide to go, we'd love to take in Victoria Falls. Can anyone suggest the best way to travel?

Look forward to hearing anyone's advice,

Kirstie and Justin

Yes, crime is high in South Africa. But mostly in the cities and Townships. If you stay alert and smart about travel, your trip will be wonderful and crime-free. You likely won't be going to Townships anyway and be careful about what parts of Joburg and Pretoria you travel to. Otherwise, I think smaller, less populated areas are safer and fairly easy travel. Cape Town is wonderful. I'm sure Victoria Falls is okay for a visit, but going through some parts of Zimbabwe could be dangerous with the latest political problems - attacks on whites and farmers are more common than they used to be. And since so many farms have been taken over and, interestingly, not used for farming, people are now starving. So it could be touch and go. Maybe go through Botswana to get to Vic Falls - it's pretty stable and developed for Africa. Enjoy!

Well the crime rate is sort of like it is in LA or New York on a bad day. People go there everyday and leave in fine health. They do stay away from the bad ends of town and stick to the touristy places. Do the same here. Do not flash money - there are a lot of poor and desperate people especially in Jo'burg. Keep your car doors locked and call for help but do not stop to help yourself - literal highway robbery is the thief's favourite ploy. I have been here for several years and have not run into any problems whatsoever but then I am not in Jo'burg.
About Zimbabwe, the earlier writer, Choo, is quite right. You can see the Zambian side of Victoria Falls in Livingstone or you can go across there to Zimbabwe - there is a bridge to cross over to the Falls. It costs $US10 and they only take it in US cash so be prepared. Stay with a group, don't wander off the beaten track and you should be fine. It is probably best to discuss anything political just about anywhere else. Do come on over to South Africa - you will fall in love with this place. The weather is great, the folks are friendly, the accommodation is great. If you golf, the courses are excellent and challenging. If you are into water sports, you name it, and it is here somewhere. And seeing the wildlife without the bars of a zoo is an experience you will never forget. Karengolf-travel-packages

Give yourself the ultimate golfing challenge - Golf South Africa