It advised travellers to “avoid taking alternative routes away from main roads as this can often take you into less secure areas”.

“Where you can, you should plan your trip in advance and verify your travel itinerary with a trusted local source,” the FCDO added. 

“In Cape Town people have been affected by attacks and violent crime on secondary roads near the airport.”

The FCDO also urged tourists hiking in Table Mountain National Park, including on Lion’s Head and Signal Hill, to “stick to busy marked trails on popular days such as weekends and do not hike alone”.

“There have been a number of recent violent attacks and muggings on hikers and foreign tourists [in the national park],” it added. 

The FCDO highlighted how some Cape Town residents use social media platforms – such as The Hikers Network, Meet Up and Facebook – to coordinate hikes in larger groups. 

Earlier this month, British travellers in South Africa were warned to be vigilant to potential “smash and grab” attacks, especially on vehicles.

It comes after South Africa announced it is investing millions into a new scheme designed to safeguard tourists at airports, tourist attractions and national parks. 

More than £7m is being invested into training 2,300 tourism monitors.