The key facts
- ATOR recommended that Russians avoid independent trips to remote areas of South Africa, especially at night
- The reason was the November 5 attack on a married couple heading to Kruger National Park: the man was killed, the wife survived with an eye injury
- Tour operators are not recording mass cancellations of already booked trips to South Africa
Recommendations following the death of a tourist
The Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) has recommended that Russian tourists avoid independent car trips to remote areas of South Africa, especially in the evening and at night. The reason was an armed attack on Russian tourists on November 5, Life.ru reports.
What happened on November 5
A married couple arrived in Johannesburg and set off by car for Kruger National Park. At around 22:00 local time, the travelers stopped due to a damaged wheel, and at that moment armed attackers set upon them. The criminals stole the couple's personal belongings and opened fire on the man — he died from his injuries. His wife survived, having suffered an eye injury. The South African police are investigating the circumstances of the attack. Earlier, Life.ru reported, citing the embassy, that the victim was 66-year-old Russian citizen Anatoly Nizovtsev; the diplomatic mission confirmed his death and stated that it is providing consular assistance to the victim's wife.
What tour operators advise
ATOR explained that trips along sparsely populated highways, where there is no constant police presence, can be particularly risky. Tourists are advised to agree on routes with the receiving company in advance, use organized transfers and the services of vetted drivers, and, where possible, avoid night journeys. Those who do rent a car are advised to travel mainly during daylight hours, choose main roads, and not make unplanned stops in deserted places.
Practical guidance and market reaction
Tour operators also recommend not displaying expensive jewelry, smartphones and other valuables, not leaving luggage visible in the car, and keeping doors locked and windows closed during stops. In case of technical problems, experts advise contacting the rental company or roadside assistance and, if the condition of the car and the situation allow, reaching the nearest safe place rather than fixing the breakdown on a deserted highway.
