# What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About the Updated South Africa Travel Advisory
Planning a safari adventure, visiting Cape Town’s stunning coastline, or exploring Johannesburg’s vibrant culture? If you’re an Ottawa traveller with South Africa on your itinerary, the Government of Canada has important information you should review before departure.
On April 13, 2026, Canada updated its travel advisory for South Africa, maintaining a **Level 2 risk rating: Exercise a High Degree of Caution**. While this doesn’t mean you should cancel your trip, it does signal that extra preparation and awareness are essential for a safe journey.
## Understanding What “Exercise a High Degree of Caution” Really Means
A Level 2 advisory indicates that conditions in South Africa require travellers to be particularly vigilant about their personal safety. The primary concern? Crime rates that significantly exceed what most Canadians experience at home. This isn’t about creating fear—it’s about traveling informed and prepared.
## The Safety Landscape: What You’re Facing
Violent crime remains the most pressing concern throughout South Africa. Armed robberies, carjackings, home invasions, and assaults occur regularly, particularly in major cities, townships, and isolated areas. Foreign visitors are not exempt from these risks.
After dark, risk levels escalate considerably. City centres that bustle with activity during daylight hours become significantly more dangerous once the sun sets. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are especially common at markets, tourist attractions, and even restaurants.
Carjacking deserves special mention—it’s a persistent threat, particularly at traffic lights and in parking areas. Criminals may be armed and aggressive, making compliance your safest response if confronted.
## Essential Preparation for Ottawa Travellers
Smart preparation extends beyond reviewing safety protocols. As an Ottawa traveller, your pre-departure checklist should include:
**Safety measures:** Book accommodations with robust security features, arrange airport transfers in advance with reputable companies, and avoid displaying wealth through jewelry or electronics.
**Travel health preparation:** This is where many travellers fall short. South Africa presents specific health risks that require medical consultation. Depending on your itinerary, you may need vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and yellow fever. If you’re visiting malaria-endemic regions like Kruger National Park, antimalarial medication is essential.
A comprehensive travel health consultation helps you understand which vaccines you need, how to prevent traveller’s diarrhea, what to pack in your medical kit, and how to access medical care abroad if needed.
**Travel insurance:** Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation and theft.
Don’t let these precautions discourage you—millions visit South Africa safely each year. The key is being prepared, staying alert, and taking your health seriously before departure.
Travelling to South Africa? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.