The United States has revised its travel advisory for South Africa, introducing new warnings about terrorism risks and tightening security measures for American government personnel. While the advisory level remains at Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” , the updated guidance reflects mounting diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
New Security Concerns
Issued by the US Department of State on 27 May, the updated advisory highlights the potential threat of terrorist activity in South Africa. Although no specific groups or incidents are cited, the inclusion marks a notable shift in the US government’s risk assessment.
Travellers are also being urged to remain vigilant after dark, particularly in urban centres, and to avoid night-time travel outside of major metropolitan areas due to elevated crime and road safety concerns.
For US government employees based in South Africa, stricter security protocols are now in place. Access to certain township areas near Cape Town requires special authorisation, and visits must be made in armoured vehicles during designated hours.
Political Backdrop: Trump and Ramaphosa Clash
The advisory update follows a tense Oval Office meeting on 21 May between President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. During the encounter, Trump raised controversial claims about violence against white farmers, repeating allegations of a so-called “white genocide” claims that have been widely discredited.
President Ramaphosa rejected the racial framing of South Africa’s crime problem, reaffirming that while the country faces serious criminal challenges, the victims span all racial backgrounds. He also defended the nation’s land reform efforts as a constitutional process aimed at redressing historical injustices, not as racially motivated land seizures.
Growing Diplomatic Fallout
The travel advisory is the latest in a series of developments signalling a shift in US-South Africa relations. In recent months, the United States has cancelled development aid to South Africa, granted asylum protections to white Afrikaner groups, and expelled South Africa’s ambassador following his criticism of President Trump.
The updated advisory appears to reinforce Washington’s increasingly critical stance, marking a further deterioration in diplomatic relations.
What This Means for Travellers
Although the official travel advisory level remains unchanged, the tone of the guidance signals a heightened sense of caution. Travellers are advised to be especially careful in high-crime areas and avoid night-time travel whenever possible. The additional restrictions on US government staff underscore growing concerns around safety and political stability in the region.
Looking Ahead
The long-term implications of this diplomatic rift remain uncertain. Experts warn that continued strain between the two nations could impact cooperation on trade, regional development, and security. While South Africa remains open to American visitors, the message from Washington is clear: increased caution is not just recommended, it is expected.
