South Africa is a relatively safe country, but you have to be extra cautious about your safety. Mugging and violent crime are a big problem. The rate of violent crime is the ninth highest in the world, with the highest incidence of rape in the world. South Africa had an annual intentional homicide rate of 30 deaths per one lakh inhabitants as per a 2012 study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Crime is the main security threat to travelers. Violent crimes like rape and murder occur often involving even foreigners. Most tourist areas are safe, and the likelihood of violent crime is low.