South Africa – Transportation Strike
The Consulate General informs U.S. citizens to be cautious on all roadways during the transportation strike. In particular, the areas of the Cape Town Airport approach/N2 and the Borchard’s Quarry/N2 intersections have been areas of recent violence to include vehicles being stoned and set on fire.
U.S. citizens are reminded to remain alert and take appropriate precautions. We encourage you to monitor local media for updates on traffic disruptions, roadblocks, and potential protests. Keep in mind toll plazas can become congested because of delays caused by strikes. It is prudent to plan alternate routes and have them available in the event they are necessary.
U.S. citizens in South Africa should avoid demonstrations. Spontaneous and/or planned demonstrations occur regularly in South Africa. U.S. citizens are reminded that protests intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and may escalate into violence. As always, U.S. citizens are advised to be aware of their surroundings and to monitor local media.
You can stay in touch and get Embassy updates by checking the website of the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria. You can also get global updates at the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website where you can find the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warning, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well, or you can download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App for travel information at your fingertips. If you don’t have internet access, current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1.888.407.4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers from other countries, a regular toll line at 1.202.501.4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
If you are going to live in or travel to South Africa, please take the time to tell us about your trip by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency. You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date. It is important during enrollment or updating of information to include your current phone number and current email address where you can be reached in case of an emergency.
Above is from the U.S. Department of State
If you are traveling to South Africa, then please check your itinerary. If you are planning on using public transportation or renting a car or driver, then check for delays and plan for alternate routes. If you are on a tour which is cancelled due to the strike, then contact your travel insurance company and review your trip delay benefits. Contact Insurance Services of America with any questions or concerns.