Although crime has improved a little in recent years thanks to extra policing and CCTV cameras, overall it is still a problem in Johannesburg. Visitors should be vigilant to avoid falling victim to the wide range of crimes committed there, including robbery, theft and carjacking. These may often occur at gunpoint. Visitors should never travel alone in South Africa, especially after dark. Traveling in groups of three or four is strongly advised, as is keeping to well-lit, public places such as shopping malls and restaurants. Unaccompanied women should be especially vigilant. Take note of safe locations (police and fire stations, hospitals and malls, to name a few) as you travel. Avoid carrying nonessentials and valuables. Use your hotel safe and don't flash expensive jewelry, watches and cameras.
An area to avoid is the city center, or CBD. It should be avoided altogether at night, and visited during the day only on a guided tour. The exception to this is the Newtown district, where many restaurants, theaters and jazz clubs are located, though you should still get a taxi directly to and from your venue.
The townships too, should only be visited on a tour. If you are driving from one side of the city to the other, it's best to get local advice on the best route to take to avoid certain suburbs. Stick to the main freeways even if they are an indirect route to your destination.
