Are you planning a stay in Durban and want to know the areas and neighborhoods to avoid for your safety.

Indeed, theSouth Africa is unfortunately known for having some of the highest crime rates in the world, especially in certain cities in the country.

However, Durban, the country's third largest city, is no exception to this problem. The city faces significant security challenges with worrying crime rates, despite the authorities' efforts to combat this phenomenon.

Some areas of the city are particularly affected, with crime rates much higher than the national average. It is therefore essential for visitors and locals alike to be well informed about areas to avoid in Durban.

So here is a safety guide with precise information on the most dangerous areas of Durban but also with advice on the safest neighborhoods to stay in.

How dangerous is Durban?

Durban is a dangerous city due to gang violence, rivalries between criminal groups, extreme poverty, racial tensions and drug trafficking.

The homicide rate is about 40 per 100 inhabitants. Robberies and assaults are also very frequent and violent.

According to the Numbeo website, theDurban crime index is 80.56 which is very high.

In 2024, Durban is ranked 6th city the most criminal in the world.

Most dangerous areas in Durban

Just like at Cape Town or to  Johannesburg, the apartheid regime had intensified racial separation from 1948 to 1994, leading to the creation of townships around Durban to house non-white populations (in very poor conditions).

Unfortunately, even after the end of apartheid, the townships remained urban areas marked by poverty and under-equipment and some of them became violent areas.

Among the townships around Durban, here are the 8 most violent and dangerous areas:

• Umlazi – Largest township in Durban and the 4th largest in South Africa with 404 inhabitants. It has the highest crime rates.
• KwaMashu – Known for its football team and arts scene, this other township also faces security issues.
• Inanda – Known for its Heritage Trail and historical sites linked to the ANC and Gandhi. Despite efforts to improve the situation, Inanda remains a high-risk location, especially for visitors.
• Chatsworth – This township is popular for tourists but remains very risky for unaccompanied visitors.
• Merewent and Wentworth – “Coloured” townships which are the subject of tourist visits.
• Mpumalanga and Osizweni – With a population of around 100, these two areas are also risky for tourists.

Areas to avoid in Durban

• Durban city centre : Although the city center is generally frequented by many tourists, some streets and places are dangerous, especially at night. It is recommended to avoid walking alone, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
• Durban Harbour : Located close to the city centre, Durban Harbour is also a risk area, due to the presence of homeless people, drug addicts and petty criminals. Visitors should be extremely vigilant and avoid venturing there, especially at night.
• Point Road (Durban's red light district) : Famous for its bars, nightclubs and nightlife, Point Road is also known for its muggings, robberies and numerous fights during the night.
• The beer : This densely populated area, located above the city center, is known for its high crime rate.
• Durban Waterfront : It was once a popular tourist destination but has seen an increase in crime. The closure of the Funworld theme park sparked a crime wave that was reported by hotels in the area.
  In fact, many beachfront hotels are struggling to stay open due to the decline in tourism caused by crime.
• Some residential areas: Although most residential areas in Durban are relatively safe, there are a few areas where crime is higher. This is particularly the case in some popular areas such as Glenwood, Morningside, Musgrave and Windermere where the risks of burglary and car theft are greater.
• Roads and quiet areas outside the city centre can be dangerous and should be avoided at night.

See the areas of vigilance for which France Diplomacy warns: "Victoria Quay, Workshop Shopping Centre and Victoria Pier underpasses, Point Road, in the immediate vicinity of the Wheel Shopping Complex and the harbour. Exercise caution at all times on the waterfront."

Safest Neighborhoods in Durban

Some areas of Durban are considered relatively safer although they are not free from danger.

So here are the neighborhoods with the lowest crime rates:

• A reed : Known for its luxury hotels, restaurants and beautiful beaches.
• The LuInc : A peaceful setting ideal for families and young professionals.
• Durban North : A quieter, family-friendly suburb close to the city.
• Westville : The area is ideal for shopping, restaurants and outdoor activities.

Where to stay safely for a tourist stay

For a tourist stay in Durban, it is recommended to stay in the Umhlanga district. This neighborhood offers better security than other more difficult ones and is close to major tourist attractions, bars, restaurants and shops.

Close to the Gateway Shopping Centre, it is a popular area for its beaches and with a wide range of luxury hotels.

Among the beautiful hotels in this area, I recommend The Oyster Box.

Indeed, this establishment features 2 outdoor swimming pools, an award-winning spa and views of the Indian Ocean. Its location is perfect facing the beach, near the Umhlanga Lighthouse and the Gateway Shopping Centre.

It is important to note that the security situation can change rapidly and crime reports in Durban are subject to change. Therefore, it is recommended to always check the latest updates before travelling to certain areas and to be extremely vigilant when travelling. Safety should be a top priority for anyone wishing to fully enjoy their stay in Durban.