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US raises travel warning for popular safari destination
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, November 3rd 2025 at 7:37 GMT by Newsweek- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Why South Africa?
South Africa has long been a magnet for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers, with the iconic Kruger National Park drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. According to the South African Tourism Board, 4.4 million tourists visited the country in 2019, a number that plummeted by more than 70 % in 2020 due to the COVID‑19 pandemic. As the world slowly opened up, tourism has been rebounding—but not without new risks. The State Department’s statement highlights a sharp uptick in violent incidents, including armed robbery, assault, and kidnapping, in tourist hotspots such as Kruger, the Cape Town metropolitan area, and the KwaZulu-Natal province.
The details of the advisory
The Level 4 advisory is a stark escalation. Under this tier, the U.S. Department of State advises all U.S. citizens that “travel is not recommended” and that “travel to South Africa is not advisable.” Travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant, avoid traveling alone at night, and limit their time in high‑risk neighborhoods. The State Department also urges Americans to register with the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so they can receive emergency updates and assistance if needed.
In its press release, Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted that “the situation in South Africa has deteriorated to a point where the safety of U.S. citizens cannot be assured.” He added that “our Embassy in Pretoria is working closely with local law‑enforcement authorities and the South African government to protect American travelers and residents.” The announcement was accompanied by a briefing video featuring Ambassador Emily Braden, who emphasized the importance of adhering to local security protocols and consulting travel advisories before making any decisions.
Impact on tourism and the local economy
The advisory is likely to send a chilling effect to both international and domestic visitors. Kruger National Park, which accounts for roughly 30 % of South Africa’s tourism revenue, has already seen a decline in visitation since the first half of 2023. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates that a 10 % drop in tourism could cost the South African economy an additional US$1.2 billion in lost GDP and potentially affect up to 120,000 jobs in the hospitality sector. Local tour operators are scrambling to offer alternative packages that emphasize safety, such as smaller group sizes, private vehicles, and “safe zone” itineraries that exclude the most crime‑prone areas.
The South African government has responded by intensifying its security presence in tourist regions. The Department of Police announced a new “Tourism Safety Initiative” that will deploy 10,000 additional officers in the Kruger National Park and surrounding towns by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the South African Tourism Board issued a statement urging visitors to stay informed, follow local advice, and consider traveling with reputable tour operators that have stringent safety protocols.
Comparisons with other African safari destinations
South Africa is not alone in facing travel warnings. The U.S. has also raised its advisory for Kenya to Level 3 in 2023 after a series of violent incidents targeting tourists. Tanzania’s advisory has fluctuated between Levels 3 and 4, especially in the Zanzibar region, where attacks by extremist groups have surged. In contrast, Botswana and Namibia have maintained lower advisory levels, citing stable crime rates and strong security measures in their national parks. Travelers who previously visited these countries are now advised to reassess their itineraries, especially if they plan to visit multiple safari destinations.
What travelers should do
The State Department’s travel advisory advises U.S. citizens to:
1. Register with STEP – receive real‑time alerts and help in emergencies.
2. Research – check the latest updates from the U.S. Embassy and local authorities.
3. Plan itineraries carefully – avoid high‑risk areas, travel in groups, and use reputable transport services.
4. Secure travel insurance – ensure coverage includes medical evacuation and trip interruption.
5. Stay alert – avoid flashing valuables, keep a low profile, and respect local customs.
For those already in South Africa, the U.S. Embassy offers a 24‑hour emergency assistance hotline. The embassy also hosts a “Safety Seminar” for American travelers on Thursday, June 14, focusing on how to navigate the country’s security challenges.
Conclusion
The U.S. State Department’s elevation of South Africa’s travel advisory to Level 4 is a clear signal of the escalating safety concerns for tourists in the region. While the country remains a top safari destination, the rising tide of violent crime and political instability poses real risks to travelers. The move underscores the need for heightened vigilance, comprehensive travel insurance, and close coordination with local authorities. As the tourism industry in South Africa braces for the impact of this advisory, it will be crucial for both local businesses and travelers to adapt quickly to the new security landscape.
Read the Full Newsweek Article at:
[ https://www.newsweek.com/us-raises-travel-warning-for-popular-safari-destination-10981281 ]
