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Johannesburg, South Africa

Rules to follow in Johannesburg

3 laws, restrictions, and customs in Johannesburg that travellers often break without knowing — and the fines or consequences that follow.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Do not stop on the highway shoulder at night

Stopping on South African highways at night — even for a breakdown — is extremely dangerous. 'Highway robbery' targeting vehicles that have stopped is documented. Use roadside emergency services and keep moving to a lit petrol station if possible.

2. Do not walk alone at night in urban areas

Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban all have areas where street crime, mugging, and carjacking are elevated risks. Johannesburg CBD is particularly risky after hours.

3. Do not carry fake or counterfeit goods — confiscation at customs

Bringing counterfeit branded goods (watches, bags, clothing) into South Africa is illegal. Customs officers at Johannesburg O.R. Tambo and Cape Town airports confiscate them.

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