What are the issues affecting travelers in South Africa? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.
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Riots in Johannesburg, September 2019
There have been recent attacks on foreign-owned shops in and around Johannesburg, leading to sometimes deadly riots. Be extra careful if you are traveling to Johannesburg or other major cities in South Africa, as tensions may arise. Keep up to date with local news and avoid protests, demonstrations and stay away from any violence if you see it occur on the streets. Here are a few tips on what to do if you are traveling in a country experiencing civil unrest
Severe Drought in Cape Town: January 2018
Cape Town is currently experiencing a serious drought. When and if the dams drop below a certain level (“Day Zero”), taps will be shut off, and residents will have to line up to collect daily water rations. As of December 18, based on consumption and expected rainfall, Day Zero was projected to be April 29, 2018.
Water restrictions are now in place, limiting residents to 87 liters per person per day, but this might not be enough to avert a crisis.
Travelers to Cape Town should be aware of the situation, and do their part by following the rules laid out in the city's Save Like a Local campaign – these include re-using towels, limiting showers to two minutes, and seeking out accommodations that have water-saving measures in place.
Warning 4 June 2016: Possible Terror Attack
The US government has advised that it has received information that terror groups plan to attack places where US citizens gather such as shopping centers and malls in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
The US warning says the threat is "near-term" and linked it to the worldwide call by ISIS for its followers to carry out attacks during the month of Ramadan.
This year Ramadan begins on the night of June 6th and lasts 30 days until July 5th.
Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.
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