Like any other country South Africa has its ups and downs, your safety is assured with some preparations and understanding of local culture and customs. Tourists are often the targets of thefts and scams, but with the following tips  you can explore the wilds of Africa in comfort.

Don’t flash expensive cameras, jewelry, don’t walk around with your mobile phone in your hand or cash and don’t leave items unattended either. If renting a car, always double-check that it’s locked and don’t leave valuables on the seats for everyone to see.

Don’t hang your handbag off the back of your chair at restaurants and be mindful of where your phone is on the table. Pick pocketing is common, and if you make it easier by doing these things you’ll regret it.

When in Rome

Nothing screams tourist more! Don’t buy any of that cliche safari clothing you see on movies! You will be the only one wearing it. Dress is very casual on game drives.
Game viewing can start very early in the day, prepare for some early starts to be able to get out at sunrise. Most game drives leave in the early morning or late afternoon and early evenings when the animals are most active.

Be prepared for it to be a little chilly. Also do not wear your best clothes. By the end of the drive, you may be dusty, sweaty and dirty! Also wear enclosed shoes, it is easier to get up and down from the vehicles and will keep your feet warm!

Don’t be surprised when a petrol attendant insists on filling up your car
South African drivers don’t fill up their own cars, there are petrol attendants for this.

Don’t give money to beggars
Unfortunately, South Africa has a high level of poverty and you may see beggars approaching cars/pedestrians asking for money. If you are approached by a beggar please do respond and do not hand over any cash as it is often used for drugs and alcohol.

Stopping at traffic lights
When stopping at traffic lights, don’t be surprised to see guys selling all sorts of items at busy intersections. These items range from newspapers to toys, bags, and electronic accessories, among others.
Apart from selling items, you will also find some guys begging, collecting rubbish or handing out flyers.

Never entertain these approaches.

Don’t drive with your car doors unlocked
Car hijackings are unfortunately all too common in some parts of South Africa. It is important to always keep your doors locked. Keep valuables out of sight and don’t leave anything in your car overnight.

Don’t accept help from strangers at ATM’s
Card swapping scams are huge in South Africa so pay attention when withdrawing cash.

Don’t carry large sums of cash
Don’t withdraw large amounts of cash from ATMs or carry it in your wallet. Credit cards are widely accepted all over South Africa so carry small amounts of cash only.

Don’t feed or touch the animals
Remember that the animals you’ll see are wild and shouldn’t be fed or touched. Regardless of how harmless or cuddly they seem, remain in the vehicle at all times. Pumba is not your friend.

Medical
You won’t need any vaccinations for traveling to South Africa unless you come from a country with prevalent Yellow Fever. Also, unless you’re paranoid, you shouldn’t need to take malaria medication in South Africa unless you plan on sleeping in a swamp.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/SouthAfrica.html