Sandton

Johannesburg's safest and wealthiest area with luxury shopping and international restaurants. Lowest crime rate in the city but everything costs more and it feels disconnected from local culture.

Sandton is Johannesburg's wealthiest and safest area with crime rates of just 8-12 incidents per 1,000 residents. The Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square shopping complex has over 300 stores, upscale restaurants, and the 6-meter Nelson Mandela statue. You'll find international chains like Hard Rock Cafe alongside local spots like Tashas Café and Shazmins Luxe Patisserie (French pastries, Instagram-worthy). Business travelers fill the luxury hotels, BMWs and Mercedes are everywhere, and everything costs more - expect tourist prices. The Gautrain connects to the airport in 15 minutes and Rosebank in 10. Security is everywhere with private guards, CCTV, and well-lit streets even late at night. You can walk around the Sandton City area and Nelson Mandela Square safely, though still use Uber after dark. English is universally spoken and restaurant staff are used to international visitors. If maximum safety is your priority and budget isn't a concern, Sandton works, though it feels sterile and disconnected from South African culture.