Travelling in Johannesburg - can anyone advise on safety?

[Flamingpantoufles]

Hi,

I've been invited to attend an event in Johannesburg. I'd be staying with people who live and know the city but I know that there's a high rate of violent crime there.

If you live or have lived in Jo'burg or spent time there - do you have any advice on staying safe? E.g. getting from airport to where I'm staying - will it be easy to get safe transport?

All advice appreciated - thank you

Depending on where you're staying, would the Gautrain be an option to get you there from the airport? It's usually safe and efficient, at least during the day.

Thanks @BadWoIf I need to confirm my accommodation (having a call about that tonight) and it might be that someone can collect me from the airport but just looking into option. Thanks for the Gautrain tip - I'll google that now

I do this twice a year. Don't rely on unregulated taxi drivers at the airport - they'll hassle you but just don't. The Gautrain is clean, safe and reliable but it kind of depends what your end destination is - you'll still need to get to it from the end station.
I have a regular driver that I use when I'm there. Very reliable guy and reasonably priced - do message me if you'd like his details.

Your friends should be able to arrange for a known driver to meet you at the airport. Around down lots of people use Ubers. Don’t walk around and keep valuables out of sight, inc phone etc.

That's really helpful - thank you @My19thNervousNameChange

I'll make sure I have transport booked in advance. I might check in with you about that driver depending on the outcome of tonight's chat. Thanks again.

From the comments above it sounds as if people generally feel safe in the city provided you are sensible about valuables etc and not walking around alone in places you don't know?

Uber operates in Joburg.

I very much doubt you’ll be in downtown Joburg and your friends should be able to help.

Yes let us know which part of the city you are staying.