safe african countries to visit 2023

• Africa / Ask RAI / Living Abroad / Solo Travel / Travel tips

RANKED: The Safest Countries in Africa 2024 (+ Where To Avoid!)

Published October 29, 2023 · Updated October 29, 2023

The beautiful continent of Africa , known for its warm people, breathtaking landscapes, unique cultures, rich diversity, captivating history, and ancient stories, is an incredible travel destination . Whether you’re a safari enthusiast, an adventure traveler, an insatiable historian, a fervent xenophile, or an intrepid explorer, there is something on offer for everyone in Africa . That being said, the Mother Continent is unfortunately notorious for its safety levels . So it’s expected that you’re doing some research on  the safest countries in Africa in preparation for an upcoming trip. Today, you get to find out exactly that . I have not only included the safest African country 2024, but also a handful of additional options. You will also discover some essential safety tips as a traveler in Africa and vital information on which African countries to avoid !

All of this  ↓↓  Let’s get into it my fellow explorers….

Is Africa safe?

This vast continent, spread across an area of 30,37 million km², is divided into 54 African countries , with many of those countries being relatively safe to visit or live . A handful of safe African countries have a level 1 travel advisory , which is the best safety level. Africa — home of the Great Pyramids of Giza, Kilimanjaro, the Sahara, the Nile River, Table Mountain, Victoria Falls, the Serengeti, and many more amazing African landmarks — attracts around 62 million tourist each year looking to experience its magic . The second largest continent is certainly a land of contrasts. One day you could find yourself in the centre of a bustling city surrounded by skyscrapers and the next you could be witnessing wildlife spectacles on an endless open savannah. One day you could be at the top of the highest free standing mountain in the world and the next you could be fascinated by the underwater world of a tropical island. One day you could be mesmerised by the largest desert and the next you could be sailing down the longest river in the world.

Is traveling in Africa safe?

Despite its natural beauty and vibrant culture, Africa is also infamous for its political instability, guerrilla warfare, violent crime, famine, and disease . While this may be true for some parts of the continent, much of Africa is perfectly safe to visit and where most visits are trouble-free.  Much like any other part of the world, there are safe and unsafe places in Africa. Travelers must take precautions while planning a trip to these African countries  to ensure the right choices are made.  Even regions widely avoided as a travel destination many years ago are turning the tide in recent years. With basic safety precautions and an avoidance of certain areas and activities, a good time is almost guaranteed. Here are the safest countries in Africa in 2024 , worth exploring for their thrilling adventures and unmatched beauty .

>> Read next:

• Ranked: the richest countries in Africa in 2024
• Your guide to the best countries in Africa to visit
• Top African proverbs to pay homage to this amazing part of the world
• Visiting South America? Here are the safest South American countries
• 15 countries with the best sunset in Africa
• Here’s the best safe flight messages for you
• What are the smallest countries in Africa ?
• Incredible tropical paradise islands to vacation
• The most weird foods eaten in Africa and around the world

What are the safest places in Africa? Continue reading to find out…

Before we get into this list of safe places in Africa, here are some important tips for keeping safe in Africa …

 Safety tips for travelers in Africa

• Avoid blatant displays of wealth, cash, and valuables when in public so as not to draw unwanted attention your way. Criminals are always on the lookout for potential opportunities, so the less you come across on their radar the better.
• Speaking of which, the most common type of crime is in the form of petty theft, so it is important to trust your instinct and to maintain common sense at all times .
• Avoid walking alone in quiet dark areas . Traveling in groups is always the safer option.
• Other places to be more wary include busy areas such as public transportation, markets, and tourist hotspots as well as deserted beaches.
• Know your end destination before you head out , especially at night.
• As far as possible, make use of ATMs that are located inside a bank , shopping malls, or in well-lit public areas.
• Even though safari camps and lodges are guarded, wild animals may venture within the boundaries of the camp. Children should never be left unattended in these areas and avoid walking around after dark.
• It always makes life easier to know a few words in the language of the African country you’re visiting . This helps to understand your surroundings and to make communication easier in times of need.
• Be aware of your surroundings when in public spaces so that you’re never placed in a position where you’re vulnerable. Don’t place yourself in a position that would make you an easy target.
• Speaking of being an easy target, dress and act appropriately , resembling the locals as much as you can, so as not to stand out as a foreigner.
• Avoid going to informal settlements unless you’re visiting with someone who is knowledgable about the area.
• It is important to remember to keep the doors and windows to your room locked .
• Speaking of doors, the doors of cars should always be locked . This is non-negotiable. In addition, windows should also be rolled up when driving through busy areas.
• Missing road signs, roaming livestock, and poorly maintained roads make driving more difficult. Outside of the main capital cities in Africa , four-wheel drives are recommended . Avoid stopping unnecessarily on deserted roads to avoid carjackings. Monitor fuel levels to ensure that the tank levels never drop below the halfway point.
• If you use a taxi or transport service to get around, ensure that it is part of a reputable company . Also, avoid using a taxi that has been called for you by a random acquaintance and be sure to ask for identification from the driver.
• Always keep your belongings securely and in sight when walking out and about.
• This one is directed towards solo female travelers — do not leave food or drinks unattended or with strangers and be cautious of accepting anything that has the potential to be laced with drugs from random people.
• I know this is a tough one, but keep the use of gadgets to a minimum when in crowded spaces.
• An important Africa safety tip is to keep abreast of the news and educate yourself on the current affairs of the country or region you’re traveling in. This will help in avoiding any unrest, instability, and political demonstrations.
• It is practical to register with your consulate before traveling abroad . 

Travel lover ? Know how to stay safe on a plane with these essential tips when flying

Ok, here you go…. 

The Safest African Countries in 2024 for the Adventure Traveler

What is the safest country in Africa?

1 | MAURITIUS

Mauritius tops this list as the safest African country in 2024 and 2023 with an overall score of 1.546 on the most recent Global Peace Index. This number also places this African nation as the 23rd safest country in the world.

Known as the ‘ Pearl of the Indian Ocean ‘, this island nation located off the eastern coast of Africa scores well on indicators such as organised conflict, terrorist activity, and conflicts fought. The country does not fare as well on the security of the civil police force as well as perceived criminality in society.  Mauritius — known for its pristine beaches, extensive coral reefs and lagoons, tropical climate, and cultural diversity  — is also known for offering a safe environment to both residents and visitors . It is very safe to visit with a low crime rate that is mostly petty theft and non-violent. This volcanic island getaway is a year round destination and should be on every beach lovers bucket list.  Reasons to visit Mauritius include its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, world class diving, perfect climate, multiculturalism, good food, and an abundance of activities for every kind of traveller.  Whether you’re into water-sports, mountain trekking, birdwatching, scuba-diving, quad biking, or cultural explorations there’s something here for you. 

Highlights of a visit to the safest country on Africa include:

• the vibrant capital of Port Louis . Stroll through the city to get a real taste of Mauritian culture, its many colonial buildings, and its ever popular street food.
• the rainforests, hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife of Black River Gorges National Park .
• the tropical oasis of Île aux Cerfs Island and Flic en Flac Beach .
• the landmark summit of Le Morne Brabant surrounding a lush peninsula and turquoise lagoon.
• the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam botanical garden that includes over 60 acres of exotic plants
• the Chamarel Waterfall and seven coloured earth park.

>> Is this stunning tropical island affordable too ? Check out the: best islands to visit when on a budget

2 | BOTSWANA

Botswana takes the second spot on this list of Africa safest countries 2024. The country is also the safest place in Africa to go on a safari. It scored an average of 1.762 on the 2023 Global Peace Index, placing the nation 42nd overall in the world. 

Botswana scores well in the categories of deaths from conflict, political terror, and displaced people . It doesn’t fare as well in the areas of homicides and perceived criminality in society. Most visits go without any ill occurrence, but travelers do need to note that most crimes here are in the form of petty theft, pickpocketing, and bag snatching. This landlocked country in Southern Africa is renowned for its huge diamond deposits and expansive pristine areas of wilderness offering some of the best wildlife viewings on the planet . Just under 40% of its total land area is dedicated to national parks and wildlife reserve areas. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the best among them that include the Chobe River ecosystem, the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Botswana is one of the most stable countries in Africa . Adventurers and solo travelers enjoy the safe environment provided by Africa’s oldest continuous democracy.

Botswana also holds the tops spot for the safest safari in Africa.

The following are Botswana’s highlights that travelers should not miss:

• The incredible water world and one of the world’s premier wilderness areas that is the Okavango Delta . This vast inland river delta in northern Botswana, known for its sprawling grassy plains, floods seasonally, becoming a lush wilderness.
• Chobe National Park , Botswana’s first national park, with its large herds of elephants and Cape buffalo is a must-see wildlife destination.
• The arid region of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier conservation area characterized by its red dunes, dry rivers, and migrating antelope.
• The Central Kalahari Desert showcasing its San Bushman culture.
• The natural features that make up the Nxai Pan and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans . 

>> You may be wondering, is Africa wealthy ? Here is a list of: rich African countries (by GDP and natural resources)

The Republic of Ghana is third on this list, having held the position as the safest country in Africa in previous years. With a score of 1.799 on the Global Peace Index it is considered one of the safest countries on the African continent in 2024 and 2023.

Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea in western Africa , the nation scores well on neighbouring country relations, UN peacekeeping funding, and minimal deaths from conflict. Areas of improvement include the existence of violent demonstrations and a high perceived criminality rate in society. As one of Africa’s fastest growing economies, Ghana is a relatively stable country and stands out in a region where peace and stability are not common. In addition, Ghana is also relatively safe and most visits go without any trouble . However, crime, ranging from petty to violent, does occur and it is important to remain vigilant. The Gold Coast, well known for its rich gold and cocoa deposits, is also renowned for its long history, cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and diverse animal life. In addition to its cultural tourism, other reasons to visit Ghana include its tropical beaches, welcoming people, good food, and great African music . 

The top tourist destinations in Ghana and highlights of a visit include:

• The Volta region for its natural beauty, biodiversity, waterfalls, and caves.
• Mole National Park , Ghana’s largest wildlife refuge, that is home to an abundant game population that includes elephants, rare birds, and leopards. 
• The colonial forts, Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle , that are now  museums of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.
• The museums, markets, and beaches of bustling Accra . Don’t miss Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Black Star Square commemorating the nation’s independence.
• Kejetia Market and Ashanti cultural centre of Kumasi.
• Explore the tropical paradise, go bird watching, and take the canopy walkway at Kakum National Park .

>> Speaking of the rhythm of the continent , here are the: best songs about Africa to inspire a visit and get you groovin’

Rwanda is certainly a top contender for the safest country in Africa 2024 position. The African nation, known for its relaxed pace and natural landscapes, has an overall score of 2.051 on the 2023 Global Peace Index. It scores well on UN peacekeeping funding and weapons exports, but not so well on its neighbouring country relations and its jailed population.

Tourists are warmly welcomed in the Republic of Rwanda by the locals who themselves are warm, friendly, and hospitable.  As one of Africa’s safest countries for solo travellers , you will find that crime levels remain relatively low in Rwanda with a high confidence in the local police force. However, pickpockets are active in crowded spaces and petty theft does occur. Reasons to visit this landlocked country located in the Great Rift Valley at the convergence of the African Great Lakes Region and East Africa include its natural beauty, vibrant culture and interesting history. Often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda is filled with volcanic and misty Virungu mountains and is world renowned for its diverse landscapes. 

Some of the best places to visit in Rwanda:

• Volcanoes National park, home to a population of mountain gorillas, should be on every adventure traveller’s bucket list.
• Kigali Genocide Memorial , commemorating the 1994 Rwandan genocide and serving as a reminder of this significant event in history.
• Nyungwe Forest National Park , one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. It is rich in biodiversity and home to over 100 animal, bird, and plant species.
• One of the African Great Lakes, Lake Kivu offers panoramic mountain views and an abundance of activities that include boating, fishing, and swimming.
• Kimironko Market of Kigali , the busiest market in the country and where you will find everything from food to clothes to fabric, toys, and everything in between. 

Don’t stop traveling. Discover the main advantages of traveling

5 | NAMIBIA

Namibia is also included on the list of safe countries in Africa 2024 with an overall score of 1.859 on the Global Peace Index.

This southern African nation scores well on neighbouring country relations, political terror, conflicts fought, and death from conflicts . However, it does suffer from a number of issues and does not fare as well on homicides and the perceived level of criminality in society.  For the most part, the Republic of Namibia is a safe country in Africa to visit . This country found on the south-west coast of the continent is peaceful ad welcoming. The high poverty and unemployment rate does lead to some opportunistic crime. Care and caution should be taken in the capital, Windhoek to avoid incidents of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and vehicle theft.  In addition to being one of the safest countries in Africa, Namibia is also one of the driest and most sparsely populated countries in the world . Famous the world over for having the highest sand dunes in the world at Sossusvlei, it is also known for its sublime landscapes, amazing wildlife viewing opportunities, and a whole lot of adventure activities. 

Some of the most visited places in Namibia:

• Etosha National park , located in northwestern Namibia, is a must see for its diverse landscapes, its abundance of wildlife, and a salt pan that is so large it can be seen from space.
• Witness the immense scale and grandeur of the largest canyon in Africa, the Fish River Canyon . Featuring a gigantic ravine that stretches for more than 150 kilometres, it is one of the most visited attractions in the country.
• Skeleton Coast, home to the largest ship graveyard in the world along with the bones of whales and seals makes for a dramatic sight.
• Sossusvlei  is another popular tourist spot, known for its large, red sand dunes, some of which are the tallest in the world.
• Damaraland is visited for it unparalleled landscapes of the Brandberg Mountains, ancient rock art, and the sparse desert plains.

>> Read next: What is the largest country in Africa?

Zambia is ranked as one of Africa’s safest countries in 2024 with an overall score of 1.898 on the Global Peace Index. It scores well in the categories of militarisation, displaced people, and conflicts fought. Areas of improvement lie in perceived criminality in society and violent demonstrations.

The Republic of Zambia is generally safe to visit . Crime levels are on a similar level to that in a European nation. The political situation is also relatively stable . Remain vigilant, particularly after dark when in city centres and around tourist areas.

This landlocked country in south-central Africa is another great safari destination in Africa . It boasts vast, unspoilt and wild landscapes without the crowds which can be an issue in many other destinations. It is also home to the landmark Victoria Falls sight. 

No visit to Zambia is complete without visiting:

• Kafue National park is renowned with wildlife lovers and is home to a large variety of species that include elephants, lions, leopards, and pangolins
• The awe-inspiring Victoria Falls , one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. Rising over 100 meters and almost 1,800 meters wide, this natural splendour is the world’s largest body of falling water and is a sight to behold.
• Other parks that are worth seeing include South Luangwa National Park , Lower Zambezi National Park , Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , and Nsumbu National Park .
• Siavonga , the main town along the Zambian side of Lake Kariba is rich in birdlife and is popular for boating and fishing. 

>> The Victoria Falls are a top tourist attraction . Check out this list of the: most beautiful landmarks in Africa to see

Coming in at number 6 of Africa safest countries in 2024 is Malawi. Its overall score is 1.97 on the Global Peace Index, placing it as the 74th most peaceful country in the world. Malawi scored well in categories such as UN peacekeeping funding, weapons imports and exports, and conflicts fought. Areas of concern remain its perceived criminality in society and violent demonstrations.

Malawi, known as the “ warm heart of Africa, ” is relatively safe to visit. The locals are peaceful, friendly, and warm, making the traveller feel at home. Most visits to Malawi are trouble-free , but precautions should be taken against possible muggings and burglaries. There is also the concern of health risks posed by disease.  In addition to its friendly people, other reasons to visit Malawi include its beautiful scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and comfortable weather .  A particular highlight is a trip to Lake Malawi. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its remarkable biodiversity and is home to the world’s largest number of fish species of any lake.

Malawi holds a number of worthy tourist attractions:

• Liwonde National Park , a national treasure and the best of Malawi’s game parks. Located east of the Shire River, this national park has a rich birdlife and an abundance of large animals.
• Climb to the highest point in Malawi at Mount Mulanje . Lying 65 km east of Blantyre, this “island in the sky” rises to just under 10,000 ft. with forested slopes that are ideal for hiking.
• Offering a true African experience, Kumbali Cultural Village is found just outside of Lilongwe and showcases Malawian culture, arts, crafts, and cuisine.
• Lake Malawi National Park , that includes the sandy beaches and granite islands of the Cape Maclear peninsula.
• The small yet bustling Nkhata Bay fishing village with its sheltered bays and clear waters.

>> Read next: Where to find most beautiful African sunsets . All the details here

8 | TANZANIA

No list of safe countries in Africa to visit in 2024 is complete without including the United Republic of Tanzania. According to the most recent 2023 Global Peace Index, Tanzania has an overall score of 2.058, ranking 91st in the world. The country scores high in the category of military expenditure and the import and export of weapons. It doesn’t fare as well on terrorist activity and neighboring country relations.

Most travels to Tanzania are trouble-free . However, it remains important to be cautious to avoid petty theft and threats of violence. Ensure that all valuables are safely secured. Tanzanians are proud of their country and are happy to have you as a guest in the country . The Zanzibar archipelago is also very safe , even for solo female travellers. Tanzania is a popular tourism destination due to its grand beauty, tropical African islands , incredible savannahs, abundant wildlife, archaeological sites, and towering mountains. This East African country bordering the Indian Ocean is famous for being the home to the highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro. It is also one of the best countries in Africa to experience a wildlife safari . You’ll be spoilt for choice with renowned tourism destinations such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara, 

The reasons why travelers visit this beautiful country:

• Mount Kilimanjaro , rising to an elevation of 5 895m, is Africa’s highest mountain and the tallest free standing mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro is popular with both novice hikers as well as professional adventurers as it is considered to be the easiest of the seven summits.
• The World Heritage Serengeti National Park encompassing an area of over 14,000 km2 (5,700 sq mi) is teeming with wildlife. This wildlife refuge, meaning “endless plains”, is certainly one of the world’s most celebrated wilderness areas.
• Beach lover ? Palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters, and exotic cultures beckon you to the Zanzibar archipelago that is located in the Indian Ocean a short distance off the coast of the mainland.
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans vast areas of highland plains, savannah and forests of northern Tanzania. With more than 25,000 large animals the Ngorongoro crater is home to the highest density of big game in Africa and is the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera.
• Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park , featuring large numbers of game and bird species.

>> Read next: how long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro

9 | MOROCCO

Morocco rounds up this list of safest African countries in 2024 with an overall score of 2.02 on the Global Peace Index. This mountainous country of western North Africa does well in internal conflicts fought and weapons export. Areas of improvement are external conflicts fought and neighboring country relations. 

Despite the naysayers, Morocco is a safe place to visit . You do need to keep an eye out on scams and pickpockets . It is also important to understanding its laws and cultural customs. Culture shock may be a normal part of the experience. There is also rarely any violent crime and foreigners are seldom targets of these attacks.  Moroccans are warm and highly hospitable people. Its rugged landscape is intertwined with a rich culture of Arab, African, Berber, and European influences. In addition to a warm welcome and amazing scenery, the food is a real explosion of flavors. 

Here are some highlights of a trip to Morocco:

• Marrakesh , the most visited place in the country, is a wonderful blend of palaces, gardens, and mosques. The heart of the city is the vibrant marketplace of Jamaa el-fna. The city is also the gateway into the High Atlas region.
• The town of Chefchaouen in the Rif mountains of northern Morocco, known for its blue-washed buildings and unique charm.
• The historic ksar of Aït Benhaddou situated along the former caravan route between Marrakesh and the Sahara.
• Spanning across an area of 28 kilometres, the fire-orange sand dunes of Erg Chebbi is a sight to behold and one of the top places to view the rising sun .
• Escape to the Moroccan coast on a trip to Essaouira . This port city along the Atlantic coast is a hub for water activities, artisan gems, and laidback vibe.

Listed above are the African safest countries, considered to be generally secure for adventure-seekers . Petty crimes are common in major African cities, but with common sense and vigilance (like with any kind of travel in general) tourists can be safe in this part of the world .  Too much fear? Maybe switch off your tv

Other countries that do not make this list of safest African countries, but can be visited trouble-free with several admonitions include:

• South Africa
• Equatorial Guinea

>> However to remain safe, you must follow up to date travel advice, avoid certain areas and regions within each country, and steer clear of particular behaviours. 

>> Obsessed with Africa as much as I am? Your ultimate list of quotes about Africa

You may be wondering …

Is Africa Dangerous?

While some parts of the continent are considered unsafe, with widespread crime and violence, much of Africa is perfectly safe to visit . 

Speaking of danger, before finishing, let’s take a look at countries in Africa where travelers are advised to avoid either due to civil unrest, crime, political instability, or health risks. 

These African countries are currently deemed as too dangerous to travel to and should be avoided:

• Central African Republic
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• South Sudan
• Burkina Faso

How many countries have you been to? Here’s why it doesn’t matter and why you should STOP counting

There you go. A guide on the most peaceful countries in Africa and where to avoid . This list is by no means exhaustive. If you have any other concerns or questions about traveling , just let me know and I’ll be happy to help you out and ease your concerns before traveling abroad .

What countries would YOU love to visit on this interesting continent?

Safe travels in Africa, Rai

You may also like...

100 Dubai Facts You Probably Haven’t Heard Before. From the Interesting to the Fun to the Strange

March 19, 2023

 by Raihaan · Published March 19, 2023 · Last modified May 27, 2023

35 [Essential] Cancun Travel Tips for Your First Trip in 2024

February 19, 2024

 by Raihaan · Published February 19, 2024

100+ Ways To Say FRIEND in Different Languages of the World

June 14, 2024

 by Raihaan · Published June 14, 2024

4 Responses

• Pingbacks 0

How can get to Rwanda and Botswana for tourism, kindly enlighten me

Well it depends, where are you based?

I have travelled lots in Senegal over five years and found it very safe.

Ok, good to hear. Thanks for letting us know.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Next story WEIRD Food around the world | 35 World Travelers reveal the strangest food they’ve ever eaten
• Previous story Visiting Temples in Ayutthaya: The Best Day Trip Tour from Bangkok

WHO IS ARAIOFLIGHT ✈

Welcome to A Rai of Light!

A home for extraordinary people around the world. If you've ever felt like there must be more to life, this site is for you.

Out of a love for travel, writing, photography, sharing stories and a desire to inspire others , I created this space to connect with other like-minded individuals.

Along the way, I share my journey and strategies on Travel , Art and Life . Enjoy!

DISCOVER MORE: POPULAR ✈

• Recent Posts
• Popular Posts

Living in Costa Rica → Honest Pros and Cons To Know BEFORE Choosing That Pura Vida Life

The 13 Best Cádiz Beaches, Andalusia Spain

ᐅ Top 100 Mexican Songs About Mexico To Add to Your Playlist ♫

10 Best Croatian Islands To Visit in 2024

Important Reasons to Use a VPN While Traveling and What to Know About Using a VPN While Abroad

10 Best Places To Visit in South Africa for First Timers

Ranked: 15 Most Beautiful Flags in the World in 2024

List: Which Countries Can You Visit on a Schengen Visa in 2024

WEIRD Food around the world | 35 World Travelers reveal the strangest food they’ve ever eaten

First Trip to Egypt? My Ultimate Guide of Insider Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

Flying Tips: 13 Things NOT To Do on an Airplane

Aruba Flamingo Beach: Worth $130? + How To Visit in 2024

The 5 Best Views In Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE ✈

17 Safest Countries in Africa: Ranked by Data (Travelers Guide)

To travel as safely as possible, we created this list of the safest African countries. In this post, you’ll learn about the safest countries in Africa, according to actual data. Not opinions and tourism board marketing. We’ll also take a quick look at other interesting information for each country on the list.

Mauritius, Ghana, and Botswana are the three safest countries in Africa. This is according to the Global Peace Index. It compares three factors, which are explained in this post. Other safe African countries include Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Senegal, and Tanzania.

DISCLAIMER: The following information is not my personal opinion, nor are they from personal experience. This comes from the 2021 Global Peace Index Report from Vision of Humanity . ( Download PDF report ). Any warnings listed below for such things as crime and safety have been mainly found from travel.gc.ca . Travel warnings can also be found at travel.state.gov .

Another note for any would-be travelers, if you must travel abroad during the COVID-19 outbreak, please keep in mind that many of the cited tourist attractions may be inaccessible due to the pandemic.

Safest African Countries: Ranking System

How are these countries ranked? The lower the number, the safer the country.

According to the Global Peace Index, they use three determining factors to factor in the score they give:

• Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict: Such things as the number and duration of conflicts, how many deaths, the intensity of the conflict, and how the country fares with its neighbors impact the score.
• Societal Safety and Security: In this section, things like political instability, refugees, terrorism, violent crimes, murders, jailed populations, and internal security officers and police officers play a role in affecting the score.
• Militarisation: Military expenses, armed services personnel, importing and exporting of conventional weapons, nuclear and heavy weapons capabilities, how much is contributed to UN peacekeeping missions, and how easily accessible small arms and light weapons are all points that impact the peace score.

More detailed information can be found in Section 6 of the Global Peace Index Report.

And for comparison, see a list of other popular tourist countries at the end of the post. They are ranked by the same safety factors.

The guide is part of an ongoing series covering the safest countries in the world . Learn more about the  safest countries in Asia , South America , Central America , Latin America , and Europe .

17 Safest Countries in Africa

Here’s the list of what are considered to be the 17 safest countries in Africa, with some information as to crime and safety.

Not only that, you’ll learn of some places you can go to if you decide to travel to a particular country.

1. Mauritius

• Safety Score: 1.592
• Worldwide Rank: 28
• Population: 1.266 million (2019)
• Capital City: Port Louis
• Tourists Per Year: 1.38 million (2019)

Mauritius is considered to be the safest country in Africa. In fact, its global rank is high in the Peace Index. This makes sense then, as tourism is one of Mauritius’s biggest industries.

The country has many beautiful attractions and is considered to be a tropical paradise.

• Safety Score: 1.715
• Worldwide Rank: 38
• Population: 30.42 million (2019)
• Capital City: Accra
• Tourists Per Year: 1.13 million (2019)

Despite being considered a safe country, crime has increased in certain areas, like in Accra or other large cities.

With regards to tourism, Ghana’s tropical climate and interesting wildlife make it a destination that can be enjoyed all year round.

You can visit attractions like Paga Crocodile Pond, Elmina Castle, and Aburi Botanical Gardens.

3. Botswana

• Safety Score: 1.753
• Worldwide Rank: 41
• Population: 2.304 million (2019)
• Capital City: Gaborone
• Tourists Per Year: 1.83 million (2018)

Also considered to be a safe country by the Index, Botswana has many tourist attractions. Some of its biggest attractions are its game reserves, where safaris are available.

The Okavango Delta region is also considered a must-see when visiting, especially during the rainy season.

4. Sierra Leone

• Safety Score: 1.813
• Worldwide Rank: 46
• Population: 7.813 million (2019)
• Capital City: Freetown
• Tourists Per Year: 71,000 (2019)

Sierra Leone does have a high crime rate, despite being high on this list. For tourism, you can visit such attractions as beaches, nature reserves, mountains, and islands.

One attraction is the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, located about 40 minutes outside the capital, Freetown.

5. The Gambia

• Safety Score: 1.853
• Worldwide Rank: 53
• Population: 2.348 million (2019)
• Capital City: Banjul
• Tourists Per Year: 619,000 (2019)

Pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa by land area.

Popular areas you can visit in the country include the capital of Banjul, the town of Jufureh, and the Kachkikally crocodile pool.

The Gambia is bordered on three sides by Senegal. On the west, it has a 50 mile (80 km) coastline on the Atlantic Ocean.

• Safety Score: 1.864
• Worldwide Rank: 54
• Population: 16.3 million (2019)
• Capital City: Dakar
• Tourists Per Year: 1.38 million (2017)

The Casamance conflict in Senegal is an ongoing battle between rebel groups and the military. It is considered to be of low-level violence, as a ceasefire was declared back in 2014. Keep an eye out for that area.

As a traveler, an interesting attraction is Gorée Island, a former slave trade post, and current UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Tanzania

• Safety Score: 1.892
• Worldwide Rank: 58
• Population: 58.01 million (2019)
• Capital City: Dodoma
• Tourists Per Year: 1.527 million (2019)

Current warnings for Tanzania have to do with borders to other countries, such as Mozambique, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

If you go for a visit, the big draw to Tanzania is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa .

• Safety Score: 1.909
• Worldwide Rank: 59
• Population: 18.63 million (2019)
• Capital City: Lilongwe
• Tourists Per Year: 871,000 (2019)

Malawi is relatively safe, though violent crimes can occur. The country has many things to offer to travelers, such as Mulanje Mountain, Lake Malawi, as well as national parks and game reserves (a common theme on this list).

Lake Malawi is one of the largest lakes in Africa .

Malawi is also well-known for its friendliness, being referred to as “The Warm Heart of Africa” .

9. Equatorial Guinea

• Safety Score: 1.915
• Worldwide Rank: 62
• Population: 1.356 million (2019)
• Capital City: Malabo
• Tourists Per Year: N/A

Armed robberies and muggings can occur here, especially in the cities. Despite being considered one of the least visited countries in the world, there are some places to visit.

Tourist attractions in Equatorial Guinea include the colonial quarter in the capital city of Malabo and hiking and beaches on the island of Bioko.

10. Namibia

• Safety Score: 1.927
• Worldwide Rank: 65
• Population : 2.495 million (2019)
• Capital City: Windhoek
• Tourists Per Year: 1.596 million (2019)

Since the end of the Angolan civil war, the peace enjoyed in that country has helped improve things for its neighbor, Namibia. Despite this, petty crime is still common.

That being said, tourism is a major industry, and you can visit such attractions as the Namib Desert should you go.

11. Kingdom of Eswatini or Swaziland

• Safety Score: 1.955
• Worldwide Rank: 69
• Population: 1.148 million (2019)
• Capital City: Mbabane, Lobamba
• Tourists Per Year: 1.23 million (2019)

Petty crime might be common, but it’s relatively low when compared to other nations in its region. Tourism is quite successful in Swaziland.

You can visit such attractions as Hlane Royal National Park, go shopping in Swazi Market, or soak in some culture in Lobamba (the home of Swaziland’s monarchy).

12. Madagascar

• Safety Score: 1.963
• Worldwide Rank: 70
• Population: 26.97 million (2019)
• Capital City: Antananarivo
• Tourists Per Year: 486,000 (2019)

Batterie Beach and Anosy Region have been flagged as areas to avoid. Also, crime, in general, is widespread in Madagascar. Despite this, you can enjoy some nature tourism there.

One draw to Madagascar are lemurs, which are native only to the island. One place to find lemurs is in the Ranomafana National Park.

• Safety Score: 1.964
• Worldwide Rank: 71
• Population: 17.86 million (2019)
• Capital City: Lusaka
• Tourists Per Year: 1.266 million (2019)

Zambia is rightfully close to the top of this list. That being said, there can be some petty crime that takes place.

As a tourist, you could visit the world-famous Victoria Falls, as well as the world’s longest lake, Lake Tanganyika. You can see the Zambezi River (one of the longest rivers in Africa ) in Zambia.

14. Liberia

• Safety Score: 1.998
• Worldwide Rank: 76
• Population: 4.937 million (2019)
• Capital City: Monrovia

Liberia isn’t the safest place to visit, despite being number 9 on our list. There can be some violent crimes that occur, as criminals may often be armed.

While its economy has been damaged by the country’s civil wars and the recent Ebola outbreak, there are some areas that you can visit, such as Mount Woligizi, beaches near Robertsport, and Sapo National park.

15. Morocco

• Safety Score: 2.015
• Worldwide Rank: 79
• Population: 36.91 million (2020)
• Capital City: Rabat
• Tourists Per Year: 10.3 million (2017)

This north African country is popular with tourists. Here are some tips for safe travel around Morocco, which are good for almost any country you’ll visit.

In northern Morocco, you’ll find Ceuta and Melilla – two enclaves that belong to Spain. To the west of Morocco, you’ll find the Canary Islands, that also belong to Spain.

• Safety Score: 2.017
• Worldwide Rank: 80 (Tied with Kosovo)
• Population: 32.87 million (2020)
• Capital City: Luanda
• Tourists Per Year: 218,000 (2020)
• Safety Score: 2.028
• Worldwide Rank: 83
• Population: 12.63 million
• Capital City: Kigali
• Tourists Per Year: 1.63 million (2019)

Rwanda is considered to be fairly safe, with crime being relatively low. Despite that, there is some petty theft to keep an eye out for.

When it comes to tourism, wildlife tourism is big in the country. You can visit such attractions as Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, and the King’s Palace Museum.

Here are some traditional Rwandan foods to try.

Learn about the fastest animals in Africa and around the world .

Other Countries Compared

To keep these ratings all in perspective, here are a number of other popular tourist countries, by the same rating.

Here they are, for least to most safe.

• India : Ranked #135 (Score 2.553)
• United States: Ranked #122 (Score 2.337)
• Thailand: Ranked #113 (Score 2.205)
• Uganda: Ranked #114 (Score 2.219)
• Ecuador : Ranked #88 (Score 2.044)
• Cuba: Ranked #87 (Score 2.042)
• France : Ranked #55 (Score 1.868)
• Costa Rica : Ranked #39 (Score 1.725)
• Spain : Ranked #31 (Score 1.621)
• Canada: Ranked #10 (Score 1.33)

All 17 African countries in this list rank above the United States.

Africa is definitely a beautiful continent, one I’d love to explore more when possible.

Again, this list above is from the Global Peace Index.

This point bears repeating: wherever you decide to travel, please make sure you do extra research and use plenty of common sense. It doesn’t matter how safe a country may seem, you can find trouble anywhere if you’re not careful.

What are your thoughts on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Hello, I'm Joshua Diegor . My love for travel began I was 18 when I went with some friends to New York City. All in all, I've traveled to 6 continents and 14 countries.

I'm a regular contributor to Storyteller Travel .

Similar Posts

14 Largest Lakes in Europe: Listed by Size

Europe is filled with beautiful lakes and rivers. What is largest lake in Europe? And how does it compare to the other large lakes in this region? In this post, we’ll compare Europe’s largest lakes – by area, volume and depth. What’s the largest lake in Europe? Lake Ladoga in northwestern Russia is the largest…

14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda (Bonus: 11 Kampala Facts)

Thinking about visiting Kampala while in Uganda? In this post, you’ll learn all about Uganda’s capital city – interesting facts and many things to do in Kampala. Looking for facts about Kampala? Jump to that section now. 14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda Here are 14 things to do in Kampala Uganda. Did we…

Nova Scotia Beaches: Guide to 41 Best Beaches in Nova Scotia

Looking for the best beaches in Nova Scotia? Here’s the complete guide to Nova Scotia beaches – including the longest, warmest and best surfing beaches. Despite its northern location, Nova Scotia is known for having some of the warmest waters north of the Carolinas. And with 7500 km of coastline, there are a lot of…

What’s the Largest Lake in Africa? 9 Largest Lakes Compared

Africa is home to many huge lakes. What’s the largest lake in Africa? And where are the best places to visit? In this post, you’ll learn about the 9 largest lakes in Africa. Plus lots of photos and details. Africa has so much to offer a western traveler including world-renowned lakes. Second only to the…

Uganda Animals: 27 Amazing Safari Animals of Uganda

Looking for Uganda animals? In this post, you’ll learn about 27 amazing animals that you can see while trekking and on safari in Uganda. They include mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. 27 African Safari Animals in Uganda Uganda is a landlocked country in eastern Africa. Along with Tanzania and Kenya, it is home to Lake…

How to Choose a Uganda Gorilla Trek (Best Time to Go, Tour Companies, Price…)

Planning your Uganda gorilla trek? Perfect! In this post, you’ll learn what to expect, the best time to go, prices, and how to choose. I also include a list of the top 3 trekking tour companies. What should you bring on your gorilla trek? Don’t forget anything with our Complete African Safari Packing List How…

Thanks for this info. I hope to travel to Africa one day.

Morocco definitely in top 5, one of the safest (and best) country in Africa (it also has problems, but much less and to a lesser extent than other states. By African standards, it is very good). Absolutely not 15!! And many countries on the list are NOT safe… High crime, instability, violence, unrest, riots,.. You must be joking.

Thanks for your comment, you make some good points.

The concept of “safety” is somewhat subjective. The factors I consider important might be quite distinct from what you feel is needed to feel safe. There is no perfect ranking system, but in this series of articles, we try to make sense of the data. The data we used was based on 23 data points. The alternative to a data-backed approach is anecdotal evidence. While this has its place, a couple of negative experiences can easily skew reality.

@Alex, have you been to morocco and where are you from because i am moroccan

I hope to visit one of all this country soon.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Find Your Tour
• Heavy Discount
• Enquire / Contact Us
• Send an Inquiry
• Map of Africa
• Contact Details
• African Safari Cost
• Travel Insurance
• Custom Safaris
• All Budget Safaris
• Africa Camping Safaris
• African Safaris for Seniors
• Exclusive Small Group Camping Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris & Tours
• Lodge Safaris
• Short Stay Tours
• All Overland Tours
• Camping Overland Tours
• Exclusive Overland Safaris
• Lodge Africa Overland Tours
• All Family Safaris
• Family Camping Safaris
• Family Lodge Safaris
• Family Safaris in East Africa
• Family Safaris in Southern Africa
• All Adventure Travel
• Great White Shark Diving
• Walking Safaris & Hiking Tours
• Chobe National Park
• Etosha National Park
• Kilimanjaro
• Kruger National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Okavango Delta
• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Serengeti National Park
• South Luangwa National Park
• The Garden Route
• Victoria Falls
• Zanzibar Island
• Masai Mara Conservancies
• Namib Desert
• Pilanesberg National Park
• South Africa
• Kingdom of eSwatini
• Dar es Salaam
• Johannesburg
• Livingstone
• Antananarivo
• Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
• Adventure Travel & Activities
• Africa Beaches & Islands
• African Animals & Conservation
• African Culture
• Best Things to Do
• Big 5 Safari
• Bucket List Ideas
• Family Safari
• Overland Africa & Budget Safaris
• Places in Africa
• Safari Costs & Budgeting
• Travel Tips & Planning
• Where to See
• Botswana (Okavango Delta +)
• Cape Town + Garden Route
• East Africa
• Kenya (Masai Mara +)
• Kruger + Sabi Sands
• Morocco + Ethiopia
• Namibia (Etosha +)
• Rwanda + Uganda
• South Africa, Lesotho + Eswatini
• Southern Africa
• Tanzania (Zanzibar, Serengeti +)
• Zambia, Zimbabwe + Malawi
• Safari Costs
• Client Reviews

• The 10 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit (2022 Global Peace Index Rankings)

The 10 safest countries in Africa to visit in 2023 are based on the latest Global Peace Index (GPI) rankings and travel safety advisories.

Our list of the 10 safest African countries in Africa to visit today, includes travel advisory info from the US Department of State, the UK Government, and the Government of Canada, as well as advice from travel safety specialists. 

It is best to speak to a professional travel advisor for more localised, up-to-date information and expert travel advice before deciding where to go in Africa and when. Contact us for advice from one of our knowledgeable African travel experts.

10 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit in 2023

10. gabon .

#75 on the 2022 Global Peace Index, this Central African country is famous for its rich culture and some of the best beaches on the continent. Endangered turtles and whales play on its unspoiled Atlantic coast and astonishing wildlife also call Gabon home.

GENERAL SAFETY

Travel to Gabon is relatively low risk and the US Department of State has issued a Level 1 ( Exercise normal precaution ) advisory for the country. The UK Government says that although most visits to Gabon are trouble-free, it is important to take sensible precautions for personal safety and remain vigilant in public areas.  

9. Morocco 

Morocco ranks #74 on the GPI and is often considered one of the safest countries in Africa to visit. It has a good track record in terms of travel safety and is politically stable. 

Most travellers have trouble-free visits. There is some petty crime but the tourism industry is well-established and few tourists experience serious crime.

Please note, that Morocco is one of many African countries that are not LGBTQIA+ safe travel destinations.

GENERAL TRAVEL SAFETY

The UK Government states that of the almost 700,000 UK nationals visiting Morocco every year, most visits are trouble-free. 

Ranking #72 on the Global Peace Index, Rwanda has long been considered one of the safest countries in Africa to travel to. This landlocked East African country is home to rare animals, making it a dream destination for nature lovers.

Rwanda is known less for crime and more for the warm welcome visitors receive. The country is also rich in flora and fauna and its green savannah is breathtaking to see.

• Guided  Rwanda Safari Tours  for Gorilla Trekking

Although crime levels in Rwanda are relatively low, there are reports of petty street crime in Kigali. The UK Government warns that "there are cases of burglary, theft, bag snatching and mugging in Kigali. You should take sensible precautions. Take care when walking at night."

7. Namibia 

Namibia is one of the most peaceful and safest countries in Africa to visit at #68 on the 2022 Global Peace Index. One of the most politically stable countries in Africa, Namibia is also one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world.

Namibia's infrastructure is generally good and the tourism industry is well-developed. Recommended by solo female travellers, Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit on your own. Avoiding dehydration and desert critters is more of a concern in this arid southern African country than crime, in general.

• Budget  Namibia Safari Tours

Although Namibia is generally a safe African country to visit, there is some crime. That said, crime is mostly a concern in Windhoek and the problem is largely that of non-violent petty crime. 

6. Malawi 

One of the friendliest and safest African countries to visit, Malawi ranks #65 on the Global Peace Index (together with France). Malawi is known as the "Warm Heart of Africa" because of the warmth and friendliness of the Malawian people.

Malawi takes third place on the list of the safest countries to go on safari in Southern Africa.

• Budget-friendly Malawi Safari Tours

Malawi is, for the most part, a safe country to visit. Petty street crime is however a problem, mainly in Lilongwe and other urban areas (like most cities across the planet).

The UK Government advises that "[m]ost visits to Malawi are trouble-free, but you should take sensible precautions to protect yourself from muggers and bag-snatchers. Most thefts from visitors take place around the main bus stations in Lilongwe and Blantyre. Avoid walking around quiet areas, especially after dark." Canadian Government advice is to exercise a high degree of caution due to crime. The Mulanje district is a high-risk area for crime.

At position #56 on the Global Peace Index,  Zambia  is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit. It is also one of the best African safari destinations.

Zambia is the most improved country in the sub-Saharan African region according to the GPI.

The impressive 3.9% improvement in the GPI rankings is due to Zambia's improved relations with neighbouring countries and the decision to cut its military spending as a GDP percentage. As the 39th largest country in the world, at 752,614 km² (290,586 sq mi), Zambia is an unforgettable safari destination and tourist attraction.

Top Safari Destinations:  Victoria Falls  &  Livingstone  (southernmost Zambia),  South Luangwa National Park  (southeast Zambia, near Malawi), and  Kafue National Park  (central Zambia).

• Budget-friendly  Zambia Safari Tours

The UK government states most visits to Zambia are trouble-free. The US Department of State categorizes Zambia as a Level 1 country (least security risk) and advises travellers to "exercise normal precautions in Zambia". The Government of Canada advises normal security precautions and a high degree of caution in certain border areas.

4. Botswana

Botswana is the fourth safest country in Africa to visit, based on the Global Peace Index Report of 2022. The report ranks  Botswana  at #48 according to its 23 indicators. Travel Nomads also rates Botswana as one of the safest countries in Africa.

Botswana wins the prize as the safest country in Africa for a classical African safari.

Botswana, safest country in africa for safari.

• Affordable  Botswana Safari Tours

In addition to being ranked as the safest African safari country, Botswana is also one of the most rewarding safari destinations. Although it is not the cheapest country in Africa for a safari, it is also not the most expensive. There are plenty of fantastic, budget-friendly Botswana safaris to choose from, with  over 170 Botswana Safaris  on African Budget Safaris alone.  

When the Canadian government advises that you take normal security precautions, as it does for Botswana, then you know a place is pretty safe!

Travel safety specialists (Travel Safe - Abroad) go so far as to describe Botswana as "possibly the safest country in entire Africa". The UK Government is less optimistic and warns that although tourists are rarely attacked, petty and serious crime is on the rise in urban areas such as Gaborone and Francistown. 

3. The Gambia 

#45 on the Global Peace Index, The Gambia, is the third most peaceful country in Africa. The Gambia is a safe country to visit. Most visitors enjoy a trouble-free travel experience throughout The Gambia, which is the smallest country in Africa.

The Gambia is generally safe to visit. The UK Government states most visits to this African country are trouble-free, "although independent travellers are at increased risk due to the lack of local support in an emergency". The US Department of State warns travellers to exercise increased caution in "The Gambia’s southern border area adjacent to Senegal’s Casamance region due to the potential presence of landmines."

It is important to note that in The Gambia homosexuality is illegal, so it is unfortunately not an LGBTQ-friendly destination.

2. Ghana 

At #40 on the Global Peace Index, Ghana is the second most peaceful country, and thus one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. Sometimes called 'Africa for beginners' Ghana is recommended for first-time visitors to Africa because it is exceptionally friendly and safe. The Ghanaian people are known for being welcoming, helpful, easy-going, and on "African time".

GENERAL TRAVEL SAFETY

The West African country of Ghana is stable with low crime rates (particularly for this region of Africa). According to the UK Government, about 90,000 British nationals visit Ghana per year, and "most visits are trouble-free" although Ghana is not crime-free.

The US Department of State warns travellers of an increased risk of crime in certain areas. Authorities advise travellers to "exercise caution while visiting border areas, in particular, the northern border" and increased caution in "[p]arts of the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions due to civil unrest. 

1. Mauritius

Ranked #28 on the 2022 Global Peace Index, Mauritius is the safest country in Africa to visit. In fact, this peaceful African country outranks Spain (29), Italy (32), and the United Kingdom (34). This gobsmackingly beautiful Indian Ocean island is very safe to visit. 

The idyllic island of Mauritius is not a budget African travel destination or an African safari destination, so we at African Budget Safaris don't feature any trips there. The island does, however, boast rich bird and marine life, from whales and dolphins to Mauritian kestrels, as well as giant tortoises.

The crime rate is meager in Mauritius and it is a very low-risk travel destination all-round. Even the Canadian government only advises 'normal security precautions'. Yet, the UK Government warns travellers of petty crime and advises them to "[t]ake care of bags and valuables in popular tourist areas including Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Flic en Flac".

Safest Countries in Africa vs Other Countries on the GPI

Before we dive into the list of safest African countries to visit, here's how some internationally well-known countries rank on the GPI for comparison (for more about the GPI, see  What's the Global Peace Index? )

Canada ranks #12, Croatia #15, Germany #16, the Netherlands #21, and Australia #27. The United Kingdom is at #34. The United States of America ranks #129, while South Africa is at #118 (hence travel advisories factor into our list of safest African countries).

The three most peaceful countries in the world are Iceland (#1), New Zealand (#2), and Ireland (#3). The three least peaceful countries on the 2022 Global Peace Index are Syria (#161), Yemen (#162), and Afghanistan (#163).

No destination on this planet is completely safe and travel always comes with risks. Even in New Zealand, petty crime is common and there are warnings about crime targeted at tourists, even in rural places. So, as with any country you visit, anywhere, you always need to be aware and take sensible precautions, even in the safest countries in the world. 

4 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit (based on travel advisories)

These are 4 of the safest African countries to visit based on travel experts and advisories, not the GPI.

1. Eswatini (Swaziland)

Ranking #93,  Eswatini  (formerly called Swaziland) has moved out of the Top 10 but it is still one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. It is a mountainous landlocked country in southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. 

The Kingdom of Eswatini, once the Kingdom of Swaziland, is "... by-and-large, a safe country in which to travel... Indeed, hospitality is a cornerstone of Swazi culture and the average visitor’s experience is overwhelmingly a friendly and relaxed one" ( Bradt Guides 2021 ). 

• Budget-friendly  eSwatini Safari Tours

2. Madagascar  

The island of Madagascar is #84 on the 2022 Global Peace Index. This unique and largely undeveloped island is one of the most off-the-beaten-track places to visit. High in biodiversity and largely undeveloped Madagascar is an ideal destination for adventurous travellers and nature lovers.

Madagascar is relatively safe to visit, but you need to be aware of the risks and follow travel advice. For example, avoid walking in Antananarivo after dark. Madagascar is not the most politically stable country, and crime (theft and robbery) is on the increase in both urban and rural areas so visitors need to be careful. 

It is best to visit Madagascar with a trusted tour company or registered guide (ask our travel consultants for free advice). The Broke Backpacker confirms, "many people would recommend that you only travel the island with an organised tour company or hire a guide to take you around".

• Guided  Madagascar Tours

3. Tanzania 

Coming in at #86 on the Global Peace Index, Tanzania is one of the safest countries in Africa and the very best places to go on safari in Africa and has a well-established tourism industry.

According to Lonely Planet, Tanzania is generally a safe country, and "[w]hile solo travellers may be a minor curiosity in rural areas, especially solo women travellers, there are no particular issues with travelling solo in Tanzania". Travel Safe Abroad advises that "Tanzania is mostly safe to visit, though caution is recommended especially in tourist areas such as Arusha, Stone Town (Zanzibar), and Dar es Salaam". In summary, they say that "chances are you will have no negative experiences or incidents" when visiting Tanzania.

Top Tanzania safari destinations include Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater , in northern Tanzania, near the Kenya border.

• Budget Tanzania Safari Tours

4. Seychelles

Seychelles was not featured in the GPI 2022 report. It is considered a very safe travel destination and is always rated as one of the safest countries in Africa to visit. Seychelles also has a well-established tourism industry as a long-standing tourist destination. 

A green flag for travellers wanting to visit Seychelles, the Canadian Government advisory is to take normal security precautions. The UK Government states "Most visits to Seychelles are trouble-free".

Other Safe African Countries to Visit

In addition to the 4 safest African countries (above), we consider the following countries in Africa reasonably safe to visit with several caveats. If you follow travel advice and avoid certain areas and behaviours you should have a trouble-free travel experience, as millions of other travellers do each year.

For more information and advice about visiting these African countries safely get in touch with us .

What's the Global Peace Index?

The Global Peace Index (GPI) is an internationally recognized report published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). It is a benchmark study that measures and ranks national peace levels across 163 countries. The report thus covers about 99.7% of the world's population (according to World Population Review).

The study uses 23 indicators of peace to determine the ranking of countries on the index. These indicators are split into 3 broad categories: 1) Ongoing International and Domestic Conflict, 2) Societal Safety, and 3) Security, and Militarization. The latest GPI report was released in July 2022.

For more details see the  2022 Global Peace Index Report  by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP).

Top-ranked Global Peace Index Countries Not Listed in Our 10 Safest Countries in Africa

Senegal .

Although Senegal is #70 on the GPI for 2022, it is not one of the safest countries in Africa to visit. It has high crime rates, including violent and petty crimes.

The Canadian government advises a high degree of caution in Senegal due to levels of crime. The UK Government however states that most visits are trouble-free and the US Department of State has Senegal listed as Level 1 (Excercise normal precautions) with increased caution advised for the Casamance region due to crime and landmines. But according to Travel Safe - Abroad "[a]part from the fighting going on in the Casamance region of Senegal... which is why it would be wise to avoid this area, there is serious reason to be extremely vigilant on the streets of Senegal, as petty theft and violent crime are a severe issue in this country".

Sierra Leone

#50 on the GPI has been removed from the list of safest countries to visit in Africa as it is a 'medium-security risk' travel destination. Despite Sierra Leone's rank as #50 on the Global Peace Index for 2021, it is not rated as one of the safest countries in Africa to visit due to crime (robbery and assault).

Equatorial Guinea

#59 has also been removed due to travel advisory warnings. The UK Government's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to Equatorial Guinea. The Canadian Government warns travellers to "exercise a high degree of caution in Equatorial Guinea due to crime" and  Travel Safe Abroad warns that Equatorial Guinea is "a country with extremely high crime rates, corruption, and diseases" and "the rates of petty crime are among the worst you can expect when travelling, so this is a country where you definitely shouldn’t let your guard down."

Other African Countries ranked in the top 120 of the Global Peace Index

Liberia (75), Angola (78), Tunisia (85), Benin (105), and Guinea-Bissau (110).

Lesotho ranks #100, Cote d'Ivoire #108, Republic of the Congo #111, Uganda #114, South Africa #118, and Kenya #120.

Travel Safety on African Safaris

When going on safari in Africa, visitors need to be aware of and prepared for, the risks posed by potentially dangerous animals in game reserves and specific diseases in certain areas.

For more about African safari safety considerations take a look at  Safety on Africa Safaris  &  The Complete African Safari Medical Guide

Travel insurance is mandatory on all of our African safaris to ensure that our visitors stay safe. Check out our Travel Insurance for Africa page for more information and tips.

To get help with planning your travels to Africa in 2024 and beyond,  talk to one of our travel advisors specializing in affordable African travel. 

[Updated in May 2023 by Molebatsi Manzi | First published in November 2021]

Landia Davies Content Manager & Sculptor

Related Destinations

Explore these destinations mentioned in this post.

Private Group?

A private, tailor-made safari is within your reach. Experience all of your bucket-list safari related items on a budget now.

Similar & Related Blog Posts

Below you'll find further reading and articles related or similar to this post.

The Safari Safety Guide: How to Stay Safe on African Safaris

Going on safari in Africa is exciting, awe-inspiring, beautiful, and WILD! But, are African Safaris safe? Find out how to stay safe on African safaris…

Malaria Made Simple: How to Stay Safe on African Safaris

Some of the most regularly asked questions we get from clients are about the malaria risks on African safaris. In this guide to malaria, we set out all…

Where to Go on a Malaria-free Family Safari in South Africa?

One of the few African countries to host many malaria-free game reserves, South Africa is an ideal African destination for a family safari with kids.…

Best Places to Visit in Africa: Where to go? (Top African Travel Destinations)

Africa is a big continent with 54 countries! So, choosing the best travel destinations in Africa can be a little overwhelming. That's why we compiled…

African Safaris for Seniors? Safe & easy budget senior tours

Are African Safaris suitable for seniors?  Yes. African adventure travel for seniors is very popular with the demand for senior safaris in Africa…

Excellent tips on the safety of your family on safari in Africa

Concerned about family safety on safari? Find out how to keep your children safe on African safaris... Mozzie repellant? Check. Phone charger? Check. Tummy…

Is Great White Shark Cage Diving in Cape Town, South Africa, Safe?

I just watched a video where a great white shark somehow got INTO the cage off Guadalupe Island in Mexico. Now, generally speaking, this kind of thing…

Is South Africa safe to visit? Everything you need to know

Let’s answer the first question on everyone’s lips. Is it safe to travel to South Africa? Yes. Yeah. Oui. Ja. Si. Hai. Da. It is…

Yellow Fever: Facts you need to know for safe African Safaris

We are often asked about yellow fever by people coming on African safaris. Here are all the facts you need to know about yellow fever to keep you safe…

11 of the best places in Africa to visit on family safaris

Ah, those carefree overland trips from our 20s, when we threw a toothbrush, some sunblock and a swimming costume into a bag, and went travelling across…

Where to Go for the Best Tanzania Safaris and Tours

Find out where to go on the best Tanzania Safari Tours this year. And see why these are the best destinations for an African safari in Tanzania.  …

6 Best Tanzania Safari Parks to See the Big 5 of Africa

Which are the best Tanzania safari parks to see the Big 5 of Africa? This will help you decide where to go on safari in Tanzania if you want to see the…

The 2 Best Places for an Affordable & Safe Gorilla Trek in Africa

Of all the wildlife encounters, gorilla trekking in Africa is probably the most unique and special. There are only a few places in Africa where mountain…

Is Rwanda Safe to Visit?

Is Rwanda safe to visit for tourists? This question always pops up when discussing travel to Rwanda. 30 years on from the 1994 genocide, people are still…

Is Zimbabwe Safe to Visit as a Tourist? (Safety on Zimbabwe Safaris)

When planning a Zimbabwe safari, people often ask us if Zimbabwe is safe to visit. Visiting a third-world country like Zimbabwe can evoke stress, particularly…

These trips cover similar ground…

Best of Tanzania Lodge Safari to Serengeti & More

An affordable Tanzania Lodge Safari to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire & Lake Manyara. The ideal budget African safari to enjoy the best Tanzania…

4 Day Tanzania Safari - Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Lodges

An ideal Budget Tanzania Safari in Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara. See Africa's Big 5 on a lodge safari to Tanzania's best parks!

7 Day Private Tanzania Safari - Lodge & Camping Tour

A Private Tanzania Safari to Serengeti Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire & Lake Manyara. Travel in a small group, staying at private safari camps and…

13 Day Best of Namibia Lodge Safari

A diverse Namibia Lodge Safari traveling to the Kalahari, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha Park and Windhoek staying at well-selected safari…

Malawi & Zambia Safari - Budget Small Group Tour

A diverse Malawi & Zambia Safari to South Luangwa National Park, Majete Reserve, Game Haven, Zomba, Liwonde, Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi), Mua Mission and…

Best of Madagascar Tour - Beaches & Rainforests

This 12-day Best of Madagascar Tour takes you to beautiful Madagascar beaches, rainforests, parks and heritage sites! Get a taste of the exotic African…

Connect with us

Useful resources.

• Get Travel Insurance
• Book Flights
• Get Car Hire
• Signup for our newsletter

Popular Destinations

Latest blogs.

• How to plan an African safari on a very tight budget: the 8-step guide to safari planning
• Best Countries to Visit in Africa? Here are 15 Amazing African Countries
• South Africa Tipping Etiquette: 8 Top Tips for Tipping in South Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost? Your Budget Africa Safari Guide

Call us toll free from US/Canada on 1-888-414-6513 , or from the UK on 0-808-189-1052 . All other countries can contact us on +27 21 791 0878 .

© 2024 African Budget Safaris | Privacy | Terms | Cookie Policy | Consent Preferences

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Updates
• Hidden Travel Gems

10 Safest Countries in AFRICA in 2024 according to Latest GPI Rank

The very thought of traveling to Africa has a connotation of adventure & culture attached to it. The plethora of National Parks, the ecological abundance, the local culture, and of course, the wildlife. 

The world’s second-largest continent has much to offer to adventure-seeking tourists worldwide. Choosing a country to visit within Africa can also be quite confusing, especially considering every place has something unique to offer.

However, for most, the thought of visiting Africa rarely comes to fruition and in most cases, it is because one can get easily intimidated by an alien land. The issue is further exacerbated when a handful of the countries in the continent also report some of the highest crime rates in the world which also affects the image of the safer countries in the continent.

That is not to say that all of Africa in plagued with crime. In fact, most of Africa isn’t, and this article will dispel the myth entirely as we list the safest countries in Africa that one can visit.

RELATED: – 10 Most Dangerous Countries in Africa by GPI Rank

We have ranked the countries below in terms of their global peace score ( Source: Wikipedia) (a lower score indicates more safety). Purely based on the peace index, it turns out that Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Senegal are safer than South Korea.

“Each indicator’s results are then merged to create a single unified GPI value for each country. The lower the GDI score, the more peaceful—and by extension, the safer—the country is considered to be.”

2023’s Global Peace Index Map

Safest Countries in Africa to Visit in 2023

10. liberia (1.946).

Liberia offers travelers the chance to experience West Africa’s vibrant culture firsthand. The bustling capital city of Monrovia is home to dozens of markets where artisans sell their finest handcrafted wares, and the Liberia National Museum provides insight into the history of Africa’s oldest republic.

Petty and violent crimes are common throughout Monrovia, especially in densely populated neighborhoods. Most crimes in Liberia are crimes of opportunity. Pickpockets frequent known tourist attractions, and armed carjackings often take place in broad daylight. It’s wise to make travel arrangements through a reputable taxi company instead of hailing a cab on the street. Foreign tourists have reported being robbed by their taxi drivers.

9. Zambia (1.898)

The US Department of State in its annual report on Travel Advisory has marked Zambia at level 1 for traveler safety. This means, travelers ought to exercise regular precautionary measures and need not go overboard with the panic. 

A few areas in Zambia like the Copperbelt and Lusaka province do experience higher rate of crime than usual but none of them are considered “unsafe” as per international standards. 

The Victoria Falls, Kafue National Park & the lower Zambezi National Park are must-visits during your visit to Zambia, all of them are relatively crime-free. A Zambia Safari is notoriously “wild” with very few traces of modernity, even the number of Safari Camps in Zambia is fairly limited. 

8. The Gambia (1.888)

Tourism in The Republic of The Gambia is booming, and it’s easy to understand why. The Gambia is known for its hospitality, sunny beaches, and diverse wildlife. Inexpensive safari tours give travelers a unique opportunity to observe leopards, monkeys, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds in their natural habitats, and world-renowned Kotu Beach is the perfect place to unwind after a long day spent exploring Banjul, the Gambian capital city.

Fishing, boating, and horseback riding are all popular beach activities in The Gambia.

The Gambia is one of the safest travel destinations in West Africa. Violent crimes in The Gambia are rare. The biggest threats are pickpockets and Bumsters. Bumsters approach tourists and offer to be their guide or promise to introduce them to The Gambia social scene. Some Bumsters target older women, offering romance in exchange for a new life in America or Europe. These men are con-artists, and they should not be trusted.

7. Namibia (1.859)

Namibia’s rugged landscapes contribute greatly to the country’s uniqueness. Namibia is home to some of Africa’s most amazing natural sites, including the world’s highest dunes and the stunning Fish River Canyon.

Namibia offers space, tranquility and the opportunity to get away from it all: It is the second least densely populated country in the world, with only two people per square kilometer.

You can drive for hours under bright blue skies without seeing another vehicle, surrounded by landscapes so vast and barren that sometimes you feel like you are on the edge of the earth. There are not many places left in an overpopulated world where you can immerse yourself as deeply in the remote wilderness as you can in Namibia.

6. Madagascar (1.846)

Madagascar is considered one of the safer countries in Africa. The island nation has many friendly residents and the nation’s rich, natural bounty makes it a very lucrative destination for vacationers.

The Avenue of the Baobabs – a huge trail of Baobab trees is a strong candidate for becoming one of the 7 natural wonders of Africa. Tsingy de Bemaraha national park & the Ranomafana national park are among the few destinations in Madagascar that one can visit without worrying too much about safety. 

5. Senegal (1.827)

Senegal does experience some petty crime and few instances of violent crime – most commonly mugging and robbery at gunpoint. But these instances are quite uncommon and at 1.827, the country fares better than France when it comes to country-wide safety. 

Speaking of France, safety will most likely be the last of your concern since some of the biggest issues the tourists face has to do with language – which is almost exclusively French, few locals do speak broken English but it would be a great idea to hire a tour guide who is fairly adept at English. 

Additionally, Senegal has a ton of attractions that tourists can fearlessly indulge in since these tourist attractions are not riddled with crime. The pink lake of Senegal is a tourist hotspot so is the town of Casamance where tourists can unwind and relax. 

4. Ghana (1.799)

Ghana is pretty much located in the center of the world map. Although Ghana does not host too many of the other attractions that its African counterpart countries host – like Safaris, Wildlife, Eco-tours, and more. It does have a lot in the way of cultural heritage that dates back to the 18 th century. The capital city – Accra has negligible instances of crime reported and the city is always bustling with locals and tourists alike. 

There are a few attractions that one can indulge in Ghana. Surfing in the beaches of Accra, discovering Jamestown, Cape Coast Castles and visiting a few national parks here and there are a few of the activities that make Ghana a great visit.

3. Sierra Leone (1.792)

This tiny coastal country (at 71,740 Sq. km) is another haven for tourists who have Safety as their topmost concern. However, unlike the other countries mentioned previously, Sierra Leone does have a bit of a crime problem. 

Over 60% of the country’s population live below Poverty Line and as the saying goes “poverty breeds crime”. Sierra Leone is known for its nightlife and parties, especially during occasions like Christmas and Easter & the urban areas is where most of the crime takes place, the rest of the country is relatively crime-free. 

As per the Government of UK, most trips to Sierra Leone are relatively risk-free, however, there have been few instances of tourists being robbed at Gun Point. If you’re visiting the country for a short duration, make sure that you avoid strolls after 10 PM & ensure you’re always traveling in groups. Traveling with a local is an added safety measure. Source ( https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sierra-leone/safety-and-security )

2. Botswana (1.762)

The land of the Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert & the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana is one of the hidden Jewels in Africa and is known not just for the flourishing wildlife but also the extraordinary views that each of the destinations has to offer. 

Crime in Botswana is at an all-time low, the popular towns Francistown, Gaborone & Maun rarely experience any instances of serious crime. 

If you’re really concerned about safety in Africa, Botswana should be the number one pick. Safaris to Botswana tend to more expensive than a regular African Safari trip, so you may want to keep an eye on the prices.

1. Mauritius (1.546) – Safest Country in Africa

According to the current GPI ranking, Mauritius is the safest country in Africa and the 23rd safest country in the world.

Mauritius is a cosmopolitan tourist paradise with beaches and lagoons, coral diving, water activities, the “Seven Colored Earth” of Chamarel, and beautiful forests full of wildlife.

The overall crime rate in Mauritius is quite low and the crimes that do occur are mostly non-violent, such as petty theft.

Here are some top things to do and places to visit:

Beaches : Mauritius is famous for its stunning beaches like Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, and Pereybere. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Black River Gorges National Park : Explore this national park for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. It’s a great spot for nature lovers.

Chamarel Coloured Earth : Visit this unique geological formation where the sand dunes comprise seven different colors.

Port Louis : The capital city offers a blend of cultures, with attractions like the Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis Market, and the Blue Penny Museum.

Île aux Cerfs : A picturesque island near the east coast, known for beautiful beaches, lagoon, and a range of water sports.

Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao) : A sacred lake and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus in Mauritius.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden : Located near Port Louis, these gardens are known for giant water lilies and a wide variety of tropical plants.

Sugar Museum and Factory : Learn about the history of sugar production in Mauritius and its importance to the island’s economy.

Chamarel Waterfall : Witness the highest waterfall in Mauritius, set against the backdrop of lush forests and mountains.

Mauritian Cuisine : Don’t miss out on trying the local cuisine, which is a blend of Creole, French, Indian, and Chinese influences.

Dolphin and Whale Watching : Go on a boat tour to see dolphins and, during certain times of the year, whales.

Snorkeling and Diving : The island’s coral reefs offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

Do not go anywhere near South Africa ! It is a land owned and run by criminals of the first order. Criminal capital of the world.

What about Ethiopia Addis Ababa is safe.

#1 Mauritius “According to the current GPI ranking, Mauritius is the safest country in Africa and the 28th safest country in the world.”

Then…

#4 Botswana “Botswana is the safest country in Africa and 30th safest country in the world.”

So, two safest countries… On to the next site I suppose.

You’re right, we will fix the wording. Thanks.

Malawi is an incredibly-poor country and absolutely has crime. It shouldn’t be on this list.

I have to wonder why the United Kingdom is not transferring Assylum seekers from Africa to one of the 10 Countries on your list as opposed to Rawanda..

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• [email protected]
• +255682784150
• +255763058584
• +254 112 026 637
• COVID 19 Safari Policy
• Travel News

Focus East Africa Tours » Blog » The 11 Safest Countries in Africa To visit in 2022-2023

The 11 Safest Countries in Africa To visit in 2022-2023

The 11 Safest Countries in Africa To visit in 2022-2023 : Africa, the second-largest and one of the most populous continent on Earth, is a wonderful continent endowed with exceptional and gorgeous natural beauty attractions, including wonderful nature, outstanding landscapes, the best and most beautiful beaches , a destination for wildlife, and a distinctive cultural heritage. The African continent is one of the continents that is commonly visited by many visitors from all over the world due to the diverse tourism and attractions present on the continent. This is also due to what it offers and what it has been gifted with. Despite all that Africa has to offer and despite being a major tourist destination, some of the countries and tourist hotspots are unsafe, which makes traveling to and exploring the continent uncomfortable and frightening for travelers.

Most traveler choose a safari destination or country that is safe to visit in order to ensure their own safety. As a result, the safest countries receive more visitors than the unsafe ones, and vice versa. Safety is one of the most important factors that every tourist or visitor takes into consideration before making any travel arrangements. Since some African nations and tourist spots might be seen as dangerous to visit, in reality, the majority of African nations are free of violence, and the residents of those nations are very welcoming to visitors.

Since safety is the most crucial factor to take into account while organizing your safari trip to any African country destination, how will you be able to tell whether a given country is safe or unsafe? That’s probably the question you’re asking yourself, but in this post we’ll provide you with a list of the most recent statistics on the safest nations in Africa for tourists to travel to. So which African nations are the safest to travel to? The following are the top 11 safest countries and regions in Africa that everyone should visit while planning an African safari vacation .

Mauritius is the safest country to travel to in Africa, coming in at number 28 on the 2021 Global Peace Index. This tranquil African nation actually ranks higher than Spain (31), Italy (32) and the United Kingdom (33). It is very safe to travel to this jaw-droopingly gorgeous island in the Indian Ocean.

Mauritius has a relatively low crime rate and is generally a very low-risk tourist destination. According to the Canadian government, only “standard security procedures” are advised. However, the UK government encourages tourists to “take care of luggage and valuables in famous Mauritius  tourist spots including Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Flic en Flac” because of the risk of petty crime in those locations.

Ghana is the second-most peaceful nation in Africa and one of the safest to travel to, ranking number 38 on the Global Peace Index . Ghana, also referred to as “Africa for beginners,” is recommended for first-time travelers to Africa due to its excellent friendliness and safety. Ghanaians are renowned for being friendly, helpful, laid-back, and living on “African time.”

Ghana Travel Safety in General , Ghana, a country in West Africa, is peaceful and has a low crime rate. The United Kingdom government estimates that 90,000 British citizens travel to Ghana annually, noting that “most visits are trouble-free” despite Ghana’s continued high crime rate.

The United states Department of State alerts visitors to places where there may be a higher risk of crime. Travelers are advised to “exercise caution while visiting border areas, in particular, the northern border” and to “exercise greater vigilance in parts of the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions owing to civil instability.”

Tourists that travel to Botswana are unlikely to encounter any crime because it is one of the few nations in Africa without it. The Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and the zebra migration, which takes place from December to March, are just a few of the many tourist destinations in Botswana that are safe and secure.

With numerous safaris available to take you on various excursions throughout the nation, particularly in the wilderness, Botswana’s tourist business is well established. Only in Botswana will you find nature at its prime and a rich cultural past that makes the country a desirable and secure travel destination.

The Gambia, which ranks 53rd on the Global Peace Index , is the fourth most tranquil nation in Africa and it is safe to travel to the Gambia. The Gambia, the smallest country in Africa, is generally trouble-free for travelers to navigate.

It is generally safe to travel to The Gambia and most visitors to this African nation have trouble-free experiences, according to the UK government, “but independent travelers are at heightened risk due to the absence of local support in an emergency.” Due to the potential existence of landmines, the U.S. Department of State advises tourists to proceed with heightened caution in “the southern border area of The Gambia next to Senegal’s Casamance region.” It is vital to remember that The Gambia does not support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer travelers because homosexuality is against the law there.

Tanzania is one of the 10 safest nations in Africa to travel to in 2022/2023, ranking number 58 on the Global Peace Index . It also boasts a thriving tourism business and is among the top safari destinations in all of Africa. According to the 2021 Global Peace Index and traveler recommendations, Tanzania is the most secure country in East Africa to go on safari holiday, The 11 Safest Countries in Africa To visit in 2022-2023.

Tanzania is a relatively safe destination, and Lonely Planet states that while solo travelers may be a slight curiosity in rural regions, especially solo female travelers, there are no particular difficulties with traveling alone in Tanzania.” According to Travel Safe Abroad, Tanzania is generally safe to travel in, although care is advised, especially in popular tourist destinations like Arusha city, Stone Town (Zanzibar), and Dar es Salaam city. In conclusion, when visiting Tanzania,

According to the United Kingdom government , over 75,000 British citizen travel to Tanzania each year, and the majority of these trips are trouble-free. However, they do caution about an increase in crime and advice travelers to “take appropriate precautions to safeguard yourself and your goods.” With a few exceptions, the Canadian government currently advises tourists to avoid non-essential travel to the Kinshasa border crossing with Burundi, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo .

Similarly to Zambia, you can visit the top Tanzanian safari locations without going anywhere near these dangerous areas. The Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater are popular safari locations in northern Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border.

Zambia is known as the heart of Africa and is a highly peaceful nation. Visitors are welcomed warmly by the inhabitants, and the political stability of the nation is also good. You can travel to the country at any time of the year and take in the diverse wildlife, gorgeous scenery, cultural richness, and outdoor activities that are available there.

Due to the beautiful fauna and flora present on the island, which is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, this is the best location for a vacation in Africa and also one of the safer tourist destination to visit in 2022/2023. It features numerous stunning beaches, baobab trees, and enthralling scenery. All travelers are guaranteed both safety and the warm welcome of the natives in Madagascar, which is renowned for its excellent security.

Due to its stunning beauty, interesting history, and distinctive culture, Rwanda, a member of the East Africa Community , is the best site to visit in Central/East Africa. Although Rwanda’s tourist sector is still expanding, it should be highlighted that the country is now extremely stable and concerned with national security as a result of the Rwandan genocide. Rwanda is famous for being home  Mountain gorillas and is famous for gorilla trekking .

With its ban on plastic bags and strict laws against littering the environment, it is also a good country that is regarded as the cleanest in Africa. Although Rwanda is open all year round, the ideal months to visit are between June and September, when the weather is dry.

Senegal, which is situated on the Atlantic Ocean’s coast, is well-known throughout Africa and the world for its warm hospitality and rigorous security. The Great Mosque of Touba, Lake Retba, and the African Renaissance Monument are among the best spots to travel in Senegal without being concerned about crime.

Despite the attacks by Al-Shabab and earlier political upheaval, Kenya, particularly Nairobi, can be regarded as one of the safest travel destinations in Africa. There are several safari companies that take you to all the places you want to go in the nation, and they forewarn tourists about the border conflicts with Somalia and the countries coastal conflicts so that appropriate safety measures are taken. You do not want to miss a safari in Kenya to witness the various wildebeest migrations and cultural treasures because you can be confident of security in the country, The 11 Safest Countries in Africa To visit in 2022-2023.

On the 2021 Global Peace Index , Namibia is ranked as the 65th most peaceful and safest country to visit in Africa. Namibia, one of the least populated nations in the world, is also one of the most politically stable nations in Africa. The infrastructure of Namibia is generally solid, and the travel and tourism sector is well established.  Namibia is typically a safe African country to travel to, but there is some crime. Nevertheless, crime is a major problem in Windhoek city, with non-violent petty crime making up the majority of the issue, The 11 Safest Countries in Africa To visit in 2022-2023.

Compared to other African nations, Namibia is a sizable desert nation with a small population. When one decides to travel to Namibia, they can engage in a variety of activities, some of which include biking, birding watching safaris , skydiving, and quad biking. The government has taken safety measures to guarantee that Namibia is free from crime and politically stable, making it a desirable destination for tourists who can travel there throughout the year.

Other countries that are safe to visit in Africa but not included in our list includes Uganda, Seychelles, Morocco, Ethiopia, Lesotho, South Africa, Malawi etc.

Just Go Exploring uses affiliate links. If you purchase something through them, I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my disclosures page for more info.

Top 10 Safest African Countries to Visit in 2024

• Last Updated: April 8, 2024
• Africa , Destinations

If you’re considering a trip to Africa but are concerned about safety, this post is for you you.

To help you plan a safe and memorable trip, I’ve put together this guide to the safest African countries to visit.

I’ll also be discussing some potential risks you should be aware of, and how you can stay secure while visiting the region.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Africa over the years. I’ve explored 15 different African countries and am always excited every time I go back. People say there’s something special in the air in Africa, and they’re right.

Yet, many people are put off visiting this magical continent because of concerns about safety.

It’s true, there are a few places in Africa that are dangerous. However, the majority of the African continent is totally safe, peaceful, and a wonderful place to visit.

Table of Contents

Africa is a vast continent. With 54 countries, countless different cultures, unique and iconic wildlife, and some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet, Africa is also an incredible place to explore.

Things to Consider for Safe Travel in Africa

Firstly, when planning a trip to Africa, there are a few things to bear in mind to help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Factors such as political stability and crime rates are obviously important when assessing the safety of a country. But there are other things to think about too.

Here are the key factors that I recommend you consider when planning a safe trip to Africa.

Crime Rates

Being the victim of crime is one of the biggest concerns about travelling to Africa that I hear from other people. They often ask me, “Is it safe to visit Africa?” or “Should I be worried about crime?” The truth is, like any other destination in the world, Africa has its share of crime. However, it’s important to put things into perspective.

Crime rates vary hugely depending on where in the continent you are. Africa is a huge place.

The countries mentioned in this post all have relatively low crime rates. Some may even have a lower crime rate than your home country.

Political Stability

Political stability is also important for a safe travel experience. Countries with stable governments and peaceful environments are more likely to provide a secure atmosphere for tourists and travellers.

It’s usually a good idea to avoid countries with ongoing conflicts or political unrest. But that’s common sense, right?

Terrorism is, sadly, an issue in several African countries. For example, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Somalia are some of the most dangerous countries in the world in terms of terrorism risk.

However, all of the countries below have a low level of terrorism risk.

Infrastructure

Reliable infrastructure is another factor to consider for safe travel. Good transportation networks, well-maintained roads, and access to medical facilities are all important.

Countries with well-developed infrastructure are better equipped to handle emergencies and provide necessary services. Some African countries have relatively good infrastructure. Others don’t.

Tourist-Friendly Environment

A welcoming and tourist-friendly environment is another thing to think about, especially if you’re not particularly experienced travelling off the beaten track .

Countries that prioritize tourism often have measures in place to help visitors feel safe and comfortable. These can include increased security and helpful tourist information centres.

Travel Advisories

Before travelling to any African country, it’s a good idea to check travel advisories issued by your home country’s government. These advisories provide up-to-date information on safety concerns, health risks, and any travel restrictions.

The UK government publishes this advice on the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website . The American government publishes Travel Advisories on the U.S. Department of State’s website .

Sometimes, I find these government advisories can feel a little fear-mongering and over the top. (As a benchmark, check out what the U.S. government has to say about visiting France …)

But, it’s always a good idea to see what they have to say when researching a safe destination, especially if it’s somewhere you’re not familiar with.

The Global Peace Index

The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a comprehensive report published annually that measures the relative peacefulness of countries, based on a number of indicators.

It provides a detailed look at how various factors such as conflict, security, crime, and terrorism affect peace in different countries.

Looking at a country’s GPI score can help you make an informed decision based on reliable data about the safety of that country. It can also be used to rank a country’s level of peacefulness compared to other countries.

For context, according to the 2023 GPI, the UK is ranked as the 37th safest country globally. The USA is (shockingly) the 131st safest, given its relatively high rate of violent crime.

You can find the 2023 Global Peace Index here .

Considering these factors can help you make informed choices about which African countries are safe to visit.

The following countries have all been selected based on a combination of these factors. This helps make them ideal places to explore the beauty and diversity of Africa while feeling confident and safe.

10 Safest Countries in Africa

It’s true, there definitely are a few places in Africa that are dangerous for tourists. I recommend staying well clear of Somalia, South Sudan, most of the Central African Republic, eastern DRC, and various other countries and regions.

Fortunately, many other African countries are known for their low crime rates, political stability, and welcoming environment for tourists.

Here are 10 of the safest African countries to travel to. I’ve been to most of these countries, and know various people who have been to (and/or are from) the others.

1. Mauritius (Safest African Country per the Global Peace Index)

Mauritius is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant culture.

It’s typically classified as an African nation geographically, despite its island location. It’s also often considered to be one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists to visit.

One of the main reasons for this is its low crime rate . The country has a very low level of violent crime, and the police force is also known for its efficiency and effectiveness in maintaining law and order.

This helps make it a very safe destination for foreign visitors.

In addition to its safety, Mauritius offers a welcoming environment well-geared up for tourists. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and the country has a well-developed tourism industry.

There’s an excellent range of accommodations to choose from, lots of great restaurants, beautiful beaches, opportunities for hiking, watersports, and many other attractions.

Furthermore, Mauritius is known for its political stability, which is another important factor to consider when choosing a safe travel destination.

The country has a democratic government and a stable economy, which helps to contribute to its peaceful environment. In fact, the Global Peace Index consistently scores Mauritius as the most peaceful African country.

In terms of infrastructure, Mauritius has a well-developed transportation system, including modern airports, roads, and public transportation options.

This makes it easy to navigate the island and explore its various attractions.

When it comes to natural beauty, Mauritius really is a tropical paradise. F

rom its pristine beaches to its lush green landscapes and breathtaking waterfalls, the country offers a wide range of natural attractions for tourists to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, exploring nature reserves and jungle waterfalls, surfing , diving, or enjoying the wide range of other watersports on offer, Mauritius has something for you.

The only downside is that accommodation can be a little expensive in Mauritius, although there are still plenty of deals to be found, especially if you book in advance.

Global Peace Index score: 23rd safest country globally

Rwanda is a small landlocked country located in Central-East Africa. Often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, it’s an incredibly beautiful place, with thickly forested volcanoes, lakes, and lush rolling hills.

Rwanda is a great place to explore for people who love nature, wildlife, and culture. One of the best things to do in Rwanda is trekking in the spectacular Virunga National Park.

I did this over 10 years ago and still have very strong memories of the amazing day I came face-to-face with a family of critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Sitting in a clearing, watching a large family of gorillas going about their business, holding extended eye contact with several of them, was one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had travelling.

If you get the chance to do this, I highly recommend it.

Engaging in responsible tourism, such as organised gorilla trekking in Rwanda, not only offers a unique experience but also contributes to vital conservation efforts.

Despite its tragic history, Rwanda has made remarkable progress in terms of safety and stability. Political stability has been a key focus of the Rwandan government since the tragic 1994 genocide.

The country has one of the lowest crime rates in Africa , and you can explore the whole country freely with total peace of mind.

Additionally, the healthcare system in Rwanda is relatively well-developed, so you would have access to quality medical care if needed.

When I first visited Rwanda, I remember being very impressed by how clean, safe, and developed it felt. This reputation continues today and Rwanda is still one of the safest African countries to visit.

Global Peace Index score: 88th safest country globally

3. Botswana

Botswana is widely regarded as another one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. It’s an ideal destination for first-time visitors to get a taste of the continent.

Known for its political stability and low crime rates, this landlocked country in Southern Africa is a paradise for wildlife lovers and is consistently voted one of the best countries to go on safari in Africa.

Home to stunning landscapes and incredible national parks (such as Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta), there’s a huge variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Botswana.

These include game-viewing safaris, bush camping adventures, boat trips, cultural tours, and even desert expeditions.

The tourism industry in Botswana is well-developed, and you’ll find the country a welcoming place for tourists and other visitors.

When I visited Botswana, I did an overnight expedition into the Okavango Delta and a boat trip along the Chobe River. Both were incredible experiences that I’d recommend to anyone.

One of the main reasons why Botswana is considered so safe for travel is its political stability. The country has a long history of peaceful democratic governance, with regular elections and a strong rule of law.

In terms of crime rates, Botswana also has relatively low levels of crime compared to most other African countries.

Of course, it’s still important to take common-sense precautions (such as keeping valuables secure), as you would do everywhere.

The country has well-maintained roads, airports, and plenty of places to stay, making it easy to navigate and access various attractions.

The healthcare system in Botswana is also of a fairly high standard, ensuring that visitors have access to quality medical care if needed.

Global Peace Index score: 42nd safest country globally

Senegal is a vibrant and culturally diverse country in West Africa. It is known for its amazing musical scene, warm hospitality, beautiful landscapes, and rich history.

Senegal is also one of the safest countries to visit in West Africa and a great place for first-timers to the region. The country has a long history of peaceful transitions of power and a strong democratic system.

Senegal has low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime (especially pickpocketing) can be an issue from time to time, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Like any other destination, it’s always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

But, as long as you exercise common sense, the chances are you won’t have any issues here.

Senegal also has fairly well-developed infrastructure, including a good public transport system, making it easier to navigate and explore compared with some other counties in the region.

The capital city, Dakar, is a bustling metropolis with modern amenities and various accommodation options to suit different budgets.

In terms of attractions, Senegal offers a diverse range of experiences. From the vibrant markets of Dakar to the picturesque beaches of Saly, there is something for everyone.

The country is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites , such as the Island of Gorée and the historic city of Saint-Louis.

Furthermore, Senegal is known for its rich cultural heritage. You can immerse yourself in traditional music, dance, and art, as well as sample delicious Senegalese cuisine.

Global Peace Index score: 52nd safest country globally

Namibia is one of my favourite countries to visit in Africa. I spent a month in this Southwest African nation, explored most corners of the country, camped out in the wilderness most nights, and loved every second of it.

There’s a lot to see and do in Namibia, and the country has more than its fair share of beautiful places . Some of my favourites include Spitzkoppe, Sossusvlei, Fish River Canyon, and Etosha National Park.

Having your own transport is a big advantage here. Namibia is a big country and many of its most spectacular places are only really accessible with your own car (and ideally a 4×4).

Safety-wise, the government prioritizes the safety of tourists. While Namibia’s crime rate is slowly on the rise, violent crime against foreigners is still relatively rare .

Of course, you should still keep your wits about you, especially in urban areas and after dark, as petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching, etc.) can be an issue.

Be careful when taking taxis (especially at night) and when withdrawing cash from ATMs. Windhoek, the capital city, also isn’t the safest (or the nicest) place and I’d recommend not spending much time there.

Otherwise, as long as you take the usual precautions, you should be totally fine. I didn’t feel unsafe at any point during my time in Namibia.

Politically, Namibia is a beacon of stability in the region, making it one of the most secure African countries to visit. The political environment is calm, and the country has a strong rule of law.

Namibians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, creating a welcoming environment for tourists.

The country also has reliable infrastructure, with well-maintained roads and good telecommunication services.

This, coupled with a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to campsites, makes Namibia a convenient and accessible destination for different types of travellers.

Of course, the Namib desert can be an unforgiving place. So, if you want to go on a self-drive expedition into the wilderness, you need to be well prepared. It’s awesome though and well worth the effort!

Global Peace Index score: 56th safest country globally

Ghana is another excellent destination for people who want to visit a safe, stable country in West Africa.

In terms of infrastructure, Ghana has made significant improvements in recent years.

Its modern airports, reliable roads, and efficient public transport network mean that navigating the country is safe and hassle-free.

Ghana also has a relatively low crime rate.

It’s perfectly safe to explore its cities and attractions, as long as you take the usual sensible precautions. Avoid displaying valuable items and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Ghana is known for its warm and welcoming culture. Ghanaians have a reputation for hospitality and friendliness towards visitors, making tourists feel at home during their stay.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling markets of Accra, visiting historical sites such as Cape Coast Castle, or immersing yourself in vibrant cultural festivals, you can expect to be greeted with open arms and a genuine smile.

Global Peace Index score: 51st safest country globally

The East African country of Kenya is one of the most popular destinations for tourism on the continent, and for good reason.

The country is blessed with a huge range of breathtaking landscapes, amazing beaches, rich cultural heritage, and some of the best national parks for spotting iconic African wildlife.

Kenya offers a huge variety of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly hostels, catering to different types of travellers, including solo travellers and backpackers .

In terms of safety, a few regions – especially in the north and northeast along the border with Somalia – should be avoided.

These areas are quite lawless and have relatively high levels of crime and banditry (although foreigners aren’t usually targeted.)

However, most of Kenya is safe and fine to visit.

The government of Kenya has invested significantly in ensuring the safety and security of tourists. Major tourist sites are well-guarded, and there is a visible police presence in cities and towns.

This has resulted in a drastic reduction in Kenya’s crime rate, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.

Politically, Kenya has maintained relative stability, enhancing its reputation as one of the more politically stable African countries to visit. Occasional political tensions do arise, but they rarely affect tourists.

Of course, it’s wise to stay informed about local news and follow any guidelines provided by local authorities.

Many people speak English in Kenya too, and there’s an extensive public transport system, making it fairly easy to get about.

I’ve also hitchhiked around Kenya, and it’s quite easy to do (subject to the usual disclaimers).

Global Peace Index score: 117th safest country globally

8. Tanzania

Tanzania is a large country in East Africa, just south of Kenya.

Like its northern neighbour, Tanzania is also known for its incredible landscapes, vibrant culture, epic national parks, and abundant opportunities for safari and other wildlife encounters.

The country is home to some of the most famous national parks and wildlife reserves in Africa, including the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Mount Kilimanjaro.

These protected areas offer incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the chance to witness the Great Migration , when millions of wildebeest and other animals move across the Serengeti in search of food and water.

Tanzania is home to over 120 different ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs.

Immersing yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and exploring local markets is likely to be another highlight of your trip.

The country has a relatively stable government and has not experienced any major political unrest in recent years.

It also has a relatively low crime rate, although it is slightly higher than some of the other countries on this list (so take the usual precautions, etc.).

Given its popularity with overseas visitors, Tanzania has reliable infrastructure, especially in the common tourist destinations such as the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro.

When I visited Tanzania, I spent a couple of weeks exploring the mainland and another week on the island paradise of Zanzibar, which you can easily reach via ferry from the coastal city of Dar es Salaam.

Both are great.

Also, if you’re travelling on a budget, my advice would be to skip the Serengeti (amazing as it is) and instead visit the (neighbouring) Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area instead.

It’s much cheaper and still has a huge range of wildlife to see.

Global Peace Index score: 91st safest country globally

Zambia is another beautiful country in southern Africa. I’ve only visited briefly, but what I saw of the country was great.

It’s also another one of the safest African countries to travel to, and Zambia is known for its low crime rates .

You can explore the country’s national parks, go on safari , visit the famous Victoria Falls, or enjoy other activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and hiking trips without any major concerns about safety.

The country also has a relatively peaceful political climate, with a democratic government that has been in place for many years. This stability contributes to a safe and secure environment for tourists.

Global Peace Index score: 63rd safest country globally

10. Morocco

Morocco is one of the safest North African countries to visit. It’s an excellent place to explore the continent’s rich Arabic heritage.

Morocco is home to ancient cities including Fez, Marrakech, and Rabat, which are known for their vibrant markets, medinas, palaces, mosques, gardens, and exquisite architecture.

The country is also home to beautiful coastal towns like Essaouira and Agadir, where you can relax on pristine beaches, or surf to your heart’s content.

In terms of natural beauty, Morocco has a diverse range of landscapes.

From the imposing Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, it’s a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors.

When it comes to safety, Morocco’s stable political environment and low crime rates help ensure the country offers a secure and welcoming experience for tourists and other visitors.

Pickpocketing and scams can sometimes be issues in areas popular with tourists. But, as long as you keep your wits about you, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Global Peace Index score: 84th safest country globally

Best Tours in Africa

If you’d like to explore more of Africa – but feel more comfortable leaving the planning and logistics to an experienced guide – you’re in luck.

Some truly exceptional tour companies operate in various African countries, and I’ve used several of them before. Here’s my pick of the best tours in Africa.

• 12-day Namibia camping safari: includes game drives, bush camping, Etosha National Park, Skeleton Coast, Sossusvlei dunes, Fish River Canyon, Windhoek.
• 7-day tour of Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakech via Fez, also includes Chefchaouen, Merzouga Desert, Todgha Canyon, Dades Valley, and Ait Ben Hadou.
• Private 7-day safari of Arusha National Park, Tanzania: huge range of wildlife to spot including zebra, giraffe, buffalo, lion, and black rhino, includes all meals, transport, and entrance fees.
• 5-day luxury northern Tanzania safari: forests, volcanoes, savannah, Serengeti National Park, multiple game drives, luxury hotel and lodge accommodation.
• 6-day budget Tanzania safari: includes Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara, all meals, transport, and accommodation.
• 9-day Serengeti Migration safari: designed to follow the great wildebeest migration, includes Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and more.
• 4-day Kenya safari tour: includes the Masai Mara (known for the Big 5), Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, the Great Rift Valley escarpment, and a walking safari on Crescent Island. Various accommodation options from economy to luxury lodges or tented camps to fit your budget.

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about safety when visiting Africa.

Which is the safest country in Africa to visit?

Mauritius is often considered the safest country in Africa to visit. With its low crime rate, robust infrastructure, and efficient security services, Mauritius offers a safe environment for visitors.

What is the most peaceful country in Africa?

The most peaceful country in Africa is Mauritius, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. It’s stable, with a strong democracy and low levels of crime.

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

South Africa is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s important to take certain precautions, especially in the big cities. Some urban areas in South Africa have very high crime rates, so it’s crucial to do thorough research before visiting.

Where in Africa has the lowest crime rate?

As a country overall, Rwanda has one of the lowest crime rates on the continent. Of course, crime rates vary by location too.

Are safaris in Africa safe?

Yes, going on safari in Africa is perfectly safe. As long as you follow the instructions of your guide, you should never feel unsafe.

Is Nairobi safe to walk around?

As with any big city, there are areas of Nairobi that have relatively high crime rates. Overall, Nairobi is generally safe to walk around during the day but may present more risk later in the evening or night.

It’s important to research the safety of an area before visiting and to always be aware of your surroundings when walking around.

Final Thoughts

Africa is a vast and diverse continent with many stunning countries to visit.

From the vibrant markets of Marrakech to the serene beauty of a savannah sunrise, Africa offers unique experiences that are unparalleled anywhere else on Earth.

But when it comes to safety, some African countries are definitely safer for tourists than others.

The countries described in this post are all perfect for those looking for a safe African destination to explore. Each one has a huge amount to offer for every type of traveller.

Whether you’re interested in wildlife safaris, cultural immersion, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, you’ll find it here. Choosing one of these destinations will help to ensure you have a memorable and safe trip to Africa.

And if you’ve never been to Africa before – you’re in for a real treat! I hope you have an amazing time. 🙂

Which is your favourite country to visit in Africa? Let me know below!

Related Posts

• Backpacking In Somaliland: Something A Bit Different (2024)
• Ethiopia Itinerary & Travel Guide 2024
• 133+ Best Safari Quotes & Captions for Instagram in 2024
• 23 Epic Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Why You Should Travel Off The Beaten Path In 2024
• 7 Best Lodges In Tsavo East And West, Kenya in 2024
• Backpacking Kenya: The Ultimate Guide (2024)
• 17 Beautiful Places In Namibia: My Favourites (2024)

Alex Tiffany

IMPORTANT: Never travel without travel insurance!

Here are three companies that I’ve used , and thoroughly recommend :

• HeyMondo – the best value travel insurance provider on the market. They cover virtually every country in the world, they have an easy-to-use app , and their policies are straightforward and upfront , with minimal (often no) deductibles and excesses.
• SafetyWing – if you’re a digital nomad like me, it’s essential that you have suitable insurance. It’s super flexible  and affordable , you can sign up for as little or as long as you want, and can activate and deactivate it whenever you need to.
• World Nomads – for  adventurous travellers , covers 200+ activities that many other insurers won’t, such as  skydiving, heli-skiing,  rock climbing, rafting, scuba diving, cliff jumping, and kiteboarding (not available for residents of every country – check here ).

Want to start your own blog?

• This FREE 1-hour SEO training video is the best place to start. (I also took their full course which taught me most of what I know today about SEO.)
• Bluehost is by far the best website hosting provider for beginners. Click here to get started with Bluehost !

I believe in transparency: Please note that some links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you purchase something through them, I might earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. (For example, a s an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through some of these links.)  However, I only link to products and companies that I trust and honestly recommend. See my  disclosures page for more information. The income goes towards keeping this site up and running. Thanks for your support.

Leave a Comment Cancel

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• I’m Alex Tiffany.  Former corporate city robot; lifelong travel addict.
• I’m on a mission to make adventurous travel accessible to all.
• I created this site to inspire, encourage and enable as many people to get outside and explore as much of our beautiful world as possible.
• Read more about me and my mission here .
• Need some help planning the perfect trip?  Hire me as your Personal Travel Planner .

Copyright © 2024 Just Go Exploring. All rights reserved.

  Privacy Policy | Disclosures | Terms of Use & Disclaimers | Sitemap

• Entertainment

Discover Africa’s top 7 safest countries to visit in 2023 and why

Africa, a continent known for its diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife, is also home to some of the safest travel destinations in the world. While it’s true that safety concerns can vary from one region to another, many African countries have made significant strides in ensuring the well-being of travellers. In this article, we’ll explore the top 7 safest places to visit in Africa in 2023 , highlighting the reasons behind their safety and appeal.

What are the safest places to visit in Africa 2023?

1. seychelles.

This Indian Ocean paradise boasts pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a low crime rate. Seychelles’ commitment to preserving its natural beauty and a strong tourism infrastructure make it an excellent choice for a safe getaway.

Exclusive Interview with Peter Clinton Onyango ‘PC’: An outstanding Percussionist From Kenya

2. mauritius.

Known for its luxury resorts and stunning coral reefs, Mauritius is a peaceful haven with a stable political climate. The country’s emphasis on tourism safety measures and friendly locals contribute to its safety. READ ALSO: Sun, Sand, and Serenity: These are 7 of the finest beach destinations in Africa

The deserts, canyons, and wildlife of Namibia are a photographer’s dream. With a low population density and a strong commitment to conservation, Namibia offers a unique and secure adventure.

4. Safest places to visit in Africa 2023 – Botswana

Famous for its game reserves and the Okavango Delta, Botswana is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Stable governance and strict anti-poaching measures ensure the safety of both travellers and the country’s wildlife.

From Kenya to the Global Stage: Discover the Soulful Journey of Lindah Richie, a rising Rhumba Artist

Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda has emerged as a safe and progressive destination. The country’s efforts in reconciliation and sustainable tourism have attracted travellers interested in history, culture, and nature.

With its rich history and Mediterranean coastline, Tunisia is a gem in North Africa. Enhanced security measures and a tourist-friendly environment have contributed to its safety.

The vibrant culture and historical significance of Ghana make it an attractive destination. Ghana’s political stability, friendly locals, and a focus on promoting tourism create a secure environment. READ MORE: 9 African countries you can visit on a tight budget

Why Africa is the best place to visit?

Political stability.

Many of these countries have stable governments, which means fewer chances of political unrest and conflict.

Tourist-Friendly Policies

Governments in these nations have taken measures to ensure the safety and comfort of tourists, including enhanced security and accessible tourist information.

Low Crime Rates

These destinations generally have lower crime rates, ensuring a peaceful experience for travellers.

Wildlife Conservation

Countries like Botswana and Namibia prioritise wildlife conservation, which not only safeguards animals but also enhances the overall safety of their national parks.

Community Involvement

Many countries involve local communities in tourism initiatives, promoting a sense of ownership and responsibility for the safety of tourists.

Infrastructure

Investments in infrastructure, including transportation and healthcare facilities, contribute to the overall safety and well-being of travellers.

Africa offers an array of safe and captivating destinations for travellers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. While safety concerns should always be considered, these top 7 destinations have proven themselves as secure and welcoming places to explore according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) report. Remember to stay informed, respect local customs, and follow recommended travel guidelines to ensure a memorable and safe African adventure.

African countries have made strides in ensuring the well-being of travellers. We’ll explore the top 7 safest places to visit in Africa

• Cabins & Lodges
• Apartments & houses
• Camping and Glamping
• New South Wales
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Northern Territory
• Norfolk Island
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• Middle East
• Southeast Asia
• Antarctica & Arctic
• Coach, Group & Escorted
• Special Interest
• City Tours & Sightseeing
• Scenic Flights & Heli Tours
• All-Inclusive Packages
• Restaurants
• Wine & Dine
• Street Food
• Art & Culture
• Shopping & Markets
• Rail Journeys
• Ski & snowboard
• Walks & Treks
• Dive & Water Sports
• Expeditions
• Parks & Reserves
• Theme & Amusement Parks
• Spa & Wellness
• Global Village
• Money & Rewards
• Tried & Tested
• Interviews & Profiles
• Deals & Itineraries

Subscribe to the magazine

• Vacations & Travel on Facebook
• Vacations & Travel on LinkedIn
• Vacations & Travel on Instagram
• Vacations & Travel on YouTube

V&T Newsletter

Love inspiring travel stories and exciting competitions? Get the latest news delivered to your inbox.

10 safest countries in Africa for every type of traveller

• facebook-f-brands (1)
• twitter-brands (1)
• linkedin-in-brands
• envelope-solid

Eager to explore Africa but worried about safety? We’ve rounded up the safest countries in Africa for every type of traveller, from female and solo travellers to families and couples.

For many, the African continent holds the allure of uncharted terrain, bountiful wildlife and dynamic communities. It is also the oldest inhabited continent on the planet and offers striking cultural and geographical diversity across at least 54 countries. While parts of this beautiful continent are unsafe due to political and social complexities, there are plenty of African nations that are safe for visitors. Keep reading to discover the safest countries in Africa that are well worth travelling for.

Methodology

What factors determine what the safest countries in Africa are? The Global Peace Index (GPI) by the Institute for Economics and Peace is an annual ranking of countries based on factors such as political stability, low crime rates, peaceful handling of conflict and effective policy enforcement. In combination with safety advice from Australia’s Smart Traveller website, we have also taken Numbeo’s 2023 Safety Index by Country into account. This index considers perceived crime levels, feelings of safety walking during the day and night, violence, harassment, theft and discrimination.

What are the safest countries in Africa?

Mauritius consistently ranks as one of safest countries in Africa. Located off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, this picture-perfect island nation was deemed the 23rd safest country in the world by GPI in 2023 – roughly on par with Australia. Politically stable, economically strong and boasting an effective healthcare system, Mauritius gives travellers plenty of reasons to feel at ease – and those pristine beaches are a major drawcard. Traveller tip: Be wary of taxi scams. You may also want to plan your trip outside of the cyclone season, which lasts from November to May.

With petty crimes at a low and inspiring animal encounters at your fingertips, there are many reasons why Rwanda should be on your bucket list . Despite its volatile past, Rwanda has gained considerable ground in terms of safety and is now regarded as one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. Traveller tip: Make sure to avoid areas that border with The Democratic Republic of Congo, especially around the town of Gisenyi, as there are armed conflicts.

Nestled between Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa, Botswana boasts Africa’s longest continuous multi-party democracy and an abundance of community-based tourism. It’s also home to a wealth of otherworldly landscapes including the Okavango Delta and Linyanti Private Reserve, celebrated for its large elephant herds. If you steer clear of problematic areas near Gaborone Dam and Kgale Hill, you’ll have little to worry about as a tourist in Botswana. Traveller tip: To avoid waterborne diseases, don’t swim in freshwater lakes and rivers.

Seychelles is classed green on Smart Traveller’s website, meaning that tourists should exercise normal safety precautions when visiting. Coupled with a relatively low crime rate that rarely affects foreigners, the isolated landscapes of this idyllic archipelago give it a place among the safest countries in Africa. Staying in a resort greatly reduces your chance of experiencing crime and violence. Traveller tip: Avoid back streets and beaches after dark.

Zambia is the land of the famous Victoria Falls and awe-inspiring walking safaris. While it isn’t exempt from crime, it is generally seen as much safer than many other countries in Africa. Exercising common sense when out and about will help reduce the chance of getting stuck in a sticky situation. Traveller tip: Reconsider travelling to border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo to avoid conflict zones and be wary of tourist scams.

Considered one of the safest countries in Africa according to GPI and Numbeo’s Safety Index, Ghana is a democratic country known for its warm, hospitable people. Explore the hustle and bustle of vibrant markets, admire stunning whitewashed castles and witness antelope and buffalo in Ghana’s Mole National Park. Traveller tip: Take extra care around Accra, Ghana’s capital, where tourists can be targeted for scams or robbery.

From the surreal savannahs and starry skies of Etosha National Park to eerie shipwrecks and ghost towns, Namibia is an amazing destination for curious globetrotters. Besides petty crime that mainly occurs in urban centres, Namibia poses few threats to tourists. Traveller tip: Medical facilities are limited in Namibia, so ensure your travel insurance includes medical evacuation, which will likely be to South Africa.

Recognised for its low terrorist and military activity, Madagascar is an exciting and safe travel destination to consider for your next adventure. From visiting the famous Baobab Alley to spotting humpback whales or relaxing on golden beaches, this island country has no shortage of activities and is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. Traveller tip: Avoid demonstrations or large public gatherings as protests can quickly turn violent.

Morocco is a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds and tastes that has lured tourists for decades. It’s seen as one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists looking to experience beautiful architecture, cuisine and landscapes. However, crime rates increase in remote regions, so don’t hike alone in isolated areas. Instead, go with a tour guide and be wary that women may experience mild street harassment. Traveller tip: It is best to travel in small groups when out walking, particularly at night.

Often the best way to increase your safety is to distance yourself from urban life, and an escape to nature is exactly what Tanzania offers. While staying in the cities presents some risks, including bag snatching and robberies, Tanzania’s natural offerings are unparalleled. The African country’s main attractions are its big game safaris around Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. Traveller tip: Avoid travel near the Mozambique border in the Mtwara region and exercise extra caution around Arusha.

The safest countries in Africa for female travellers

Cultural norms in African countries can affect women differently to men. The safest countries in Africa for female travellers to visit are Mauritius, a peaceful country where Buddhist culture is prevalent, as well as Botswana, Gambia and Rwanda. No matter which African country you are in, female travellers may consider dressing conservatively and should conform to local behavioural standards. 

The safest countries in Africa for solo travellers

The safest countries in Africa for solo travel are Seychelles, Botswana, Ghana, Rwanda and Ghamba. In these nations, tourism is a fast-developing industry, stable government policies are in place and locals are generally friendly and helpful to visitors.

The safest countries in Africa for LGBTQ travellers

LGBTQ travellers should be aware that, in many countries in Africa, same-sex relations are punishable by jail time and, even if not illegal, are not widely accepted by the public. It is safest to avoid public displays of affection and research the local laws and cultural norms before arriving. Non-binary gender is also not legally recognised in most African countries and is often a point of discrimination. The safest countries in Africa for LGBTQ travellers are South Africa, the only country in Africa where same-sex marriage is currently legal; Mauritius, one of the few countries where LGBTQ rights are protected; and Botswana, Mozambique and Madagascar, where same-sex relations are decriminalised. Some of the most dangerous countries in Africa for LGBTQ travellers are Nigeria, Mauritiana, Uganda, Somalia, Tanzania, Zambia, Sudan and Sierra Leone.

• The safest countries in the world for 2024
• An African safari at Shamwari
• A food lovers’ guide to Mauritius
• Set adrift on the Zambezi River at sunrise

Tags: Africa , Africa travel

Travel Video We Love

Subscribe to our newsletter

Email address:

Latest Posts

Latest Features

Top 6 Instagram locations in Australia’s North West

The hilly streets of San Francisco

AfricaIncoming Blog

Africa Travel Blog

23 Safest Places to Visit in Africa

Africa, the mother continent, surprises the world with its wildlife, long white beaches, magnificent safaris, and cultural diversity. Africa offers you a lovely nap on the lap of nature. But, Are you worried about your safety in the country? Safety is an essential concern while traveling, especially to a new place. Many factors, such as ongoing international and internal conflicts, militarization, and societal security, decide a country’s safety. The number of travelers will be less in unsafe countries. From 54 countries in Africa, we have listed 23 safest places to visit in Africa. We wish you a safe and happy vacation.

NB: No place on earth is entirely risk-free; thus, traveling is never without risk. Even in the safest nations in the world, you should always remain vigilant.

* GPI – Global peace Index is the basis of safety score and ranking of countries. 

23 Safest Places To Visit in Africa in 2023

Safety Score : 1.570 (2022) 

Worldwide Rank : 28th 

Population : 12.7 lakhs (2021)

Capital City: Port Louis 

Tourists Per Year : 1.6 million in 2022. 

Mauritius is one of the safest countries in Africa. Mauritius is a stunning tropical island known for its abundance along the coast. The country tops in the peace index also. One of the wealthiest nations in Africa, Mauritius has a solid democratic system and is generally a very safe place to travel. The best time to visit Mauritius is April to June and from September to December. The long-extinct Dodo bird is found in Mauritius. The best way to get to Mauritius will be by taking a flight or boarding a holiday cruise. Mauritius’s top activities include the Walk with Lions at Casela Park, Sea Kayaking in Albion Caves, Zip Lining at Tamarin Waterfall, Hiking to Black River Peak, and Sea Kart Ride in Black River.

Safety Score : 1.759 (2022)

Worldwide Rank: 40th

Population : 3.28 crore (2021)

Capital City : Accra

Tourists Per Year: 1.13 million

Ghana is a place that can be enjoyed all year because of its tropical climate and fascinating fauna. If you are a first-timer in Africa, the safest place for you is Ghana because of its friendliness and safety. October to March is the best time to visit Ghana. Ghana is known for its beautiful coast, sand beaches, verdant forests, and animal species. A flight to Ghana is considered the most suitable traveling method. Some activities you could do in Ghana include visiting Cape Coast Castle, Crocodile Pond, Elmina Castle, and Aburi Botanical Gardens.

Safety Score : 1.792 (2022)

Worldwide Rank : 45th 

Population : 26.4 lakhs (2022)

Capital City : Banjul

Tourists Per Year : 619,000 (2019)

Another safe country to travel to in Africa is The Gambia. Travelers feel comfort and peace in Gambia. Senegal encircles the Gambia on its three sides. On the west, it has an 80 km shoreline of the Atlantic ocean. The best time to visit Gambia is November and May. Gambia is rich with its national parks and wildlife. You will find the best game drives in Africa here. The Gambia is renowned for being a birdwatcher’s paradise. Flight is the most convenient means to travel to Gambia. Popular tourist destinations include the nation’s capital, Banjul, the village of Jufureh, the Kachkikally crocodile pool, etc. 

Safety Score: 1.801 (2022)

Worldwide Rank: 48th 

Population : 25.9 lakhs (2021)

Capital City : Gaborone

Tourists Per Year : 1.8 million (2018)

Botswana is one of the best places to experience nature and incredible wildlife. Botswana is a country with less corruption and is safe to travel. The country has a well-established tourism sector. Botswana’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and stable democracy are why it became a tourism hub. One of the best wilderness and animal locations on the African continent is found in Botswana. Botswana is the most stable and safest country in the African continent.   The best time to visit Botswana is from May to October. The nation’s parks, reserves, and biodiversity cover 38% of the land area of Botswana. The main attractions of Botswana include Rock art, Moremi Game Reserve, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the Kalahari Desert, and Chobe National Park. 

Safety Score: 2.001

Worldwide Rank: 86th rank

Population: 6.36 crore (2021)

Capital City: Dodoma 

Tourists Per Year: 1.4 million 

Tanzania will offer you one of the best safaris in Africa. Since most people would be traveling outside of cities, there would be less chance for crime. Safaris are incredibly safe, and knowledgeable guides are trained to deal with wildlife encounters. The best time to visit Tanzania is from July to October. Taking a flight is the most comfortable way to reach Tanzania. The main attractions of Tanzania include Mount Kilimanjaro,the tallest in Africa. The largest lakes in the continent, such as Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Nysa, are in Tanzania. There are many activities you can do in Tanzania including climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti safari, scuba diving in Zanzibar, touring Gombe Stream National Park, and taking in the Rift Valley.

Sierra Leone

Safety Score : 1.803

Worldwide Rank : 50th 

Population : 84.2 lakhs (2021)

Capital City : Freetown

Tourists Per Year: 3.54 million

Sierra Leone is travelers’ favorite African location because of its natural beauty. Here, you can see mountains meeting mangrove beaches. Sierra Leone has a high crime rate but still manages to top the list because of its scenic beauty. The best time to visit Sierra Leone is from November to April. We can travel to Sierra Leone by road through Guinea and Liberia. Otherwise, the flight is the preferable transport. Sierra Leone has a significant place in slave history and is home to the third-largest natural harbor in the world. You can visit and participate in several activities in Sierra Leone, including Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, River Number two beach, and bunce island. 

Safety Score: 1.916

Worldwide Rank : 54 on Global Peace Index

Population: 1.69 crores (2021)

Capital City : Dakar

Tourists Per Year : 1.38 million ( 2017) 

Senegal is a west African country known as the cultural hub of Africa. The country’s natural landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and historical significance make it a tourist spot. The country is considered as safe because of its low violence rate. Sengal is most beautiful in the months from November to March. The most convenient way of transportation to Senegal is by flight. Popular attractions of Senegal include Gorée Island, a slave trade post, seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Reserve De Bandia, etc. 

Safety Score : 1.895

Worldwide Rank: 66th

Population : 1.99 crores (2021)

Capital City: Lilongwe 

Tourists Per Year: 871,000 in the year 2018

The warm heart of Africa, Malawi, is a beautiful place to visit. You will be able to find abundant wildlife and lots of national parks. The zebras at Nyika National Park and the elephants at Liwonde National Park are examples of their diverse nature. The best time to visit Malawi is between May to October. Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) is the door to the country. Activities in Malawi include Majete Wildlife Reserve, Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, and Mulanje Massif. 

Equatorial Guinea

Safety Score: 1.863

Worldwide Rank : 62

Population : 16.3 lakh (2021)

Capital City : Malabo

Tourists Per Year : Nearly 6000 visitors a year

Equatorial Guinea is one of the least visited countries in the continent because robberies and mugging are occurring here. This is the only African country that has Spanish as the official language. Rich mineral resources such as diamond and gold are found in Equatorial Guinea. 

There are many found in Equatorial Guinea. Places to visit in Guniea, including historical sites. Some include  St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral, Malabo national park, beaches on the island of Bioko, etc. The best time to visit Equatorial Guinea is the dry season from June to august. Equatorial Guinea is accessible from all significant western and Asian countries through flight. Equatorial Guinea is one of the most peaceful places in africa. 

Safety Score: 1.908

Worldwide Rank: 65

Population : 25.3 lakhs (2021)

Capital City : windhoek

Tourists Per Year : 1.3 million 

Tourism is one of the significant milestones of the Namibian economy. But still, the crime rate is high, such as pickpocketing, car break-ins, and looting. The best time to visit Namibia is July to October. Namibia is famous for having the world’s largest population of free-roaming cheetahs, desert elephants, the world’s largest underwater lake, etc. Most visitors to Namibia use flights as their transportation means; among this, most people use Johannesburg in South Africa as their airport. You could do many attractions and activities in Namibia, including a desert safari in the Namib desert, Etosha National Park, Sossusvlei, Fish River Canyon Park, and the big fives. Namibia is one of the safest travel destinations in Africa.  

Kingdom of Eswatini or Swaziland

Safety Score: 1.955 

Worldwide Rank : 69

Population : 11.9 lakhs (2021)

Capital City : Mbabane and Lobamba

Tourists Per Year: 1.2 million in 2019

Swaziland is famous for its game reserves, national parks, and wildlife. Swaziland is a  hiker’s paradise, scenically stunning. Swaziland has green valleys, rivers, ravines, bushes, and waterfalls. The best time to visit Swaziland is from May to September. By air, you can reach Swaziland. Activities you could do in Swaziland include the Mlawula Nature Reserve game drive and Hlane Royal National Park game drives. Swaziland will give you an unforgettable journey with its rich heritage and tradition. Swaziland is one of the last monarchies existing in Africa. The country is safe to visit; the people will overwhelm you with their kindness and friendliness. 

Safety Score: 1.995

Worldwide Rank: 84

Population: 2.89 crores (2021)

Capital City: Antananarivo 

Tourists Per Year: 87,100.00 in 2021 

It is an island in the Indian ocean. Madagascar is rich with its diverse flora and fauna. Madagascar is home to its lemurs (primitive relatives of primates, apes, and humans), chameleons,  orchids, and towering baobab trees. The best time to visit Madagascar is September to October. Flight is the most commonly used means of transportation for reaching Madagascar. The activities we can do in Madagascar include seeing Isalo national park, Andasibe-Mantadia, Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, etc. 

Safety Score:   1.841

Worldwide Rank: 56

Population: 1095 crore (2021)

Capital City : Lusaka 

Tourists Per Year: 502,000 (2020)

Zambia is popularly known as the heart of Africa, a beautiful country for visitors. Zambia is famous for its wildlife, water resources, and minerals. The dry season between June and November is the best time to visit Zambia. Most visitors will use flights to reach Zambia in Lusaka or Livingstone. You can see many places in Zambia, including the world-famous Victoria Falls,  Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest river, and the Zambezi River. Zambia is relatively safe to visit; they have a stable government. 

Safety Score: 1.973

Worldwide Rank : 75

Population: 51.9 lakhs (2021)

Capital City: Monrovia 

Tourists Per Year: N/A

You can travel to Liberia, but you should be cautious. Liberia had a long-running civil war history. The nation also hosts a beautiful rainforest with a wide variety of biodiversity.The best time to visit Liberia is from November to April. The easiest way to reach Liberia is by flight.  Places you can visit in Liberia include Mount Wologizi, beaches near Robertsport, and Sapo National park. The activities in Liberia may contain wildlife, surfing, beaches, and mountains. 

Safety Score:   1.969

Worldwide Rank: 74

Population : 3.71 crore ((2021)                                                                                                                                                                              

Capital City: Rabat 

Tourists Per Year : 10.9 million (2022) 

Morocco is famous for its rich and unique culture based on religion. Along with the cultural aspect, Morocco has a wealth of beaches, deserts, mountains, and valleys. The best time to visit Morocco is Autumn, from  September to November, or early spring, from March to April. The best way to reach Morocco is by flight; there are more than 15 airports inside the country which connect to various parts of the world. Tourists prefer to go to Morocco because of its warm weather, tourist-friendly people, and excellent cuisine. There are many places to visit in Morocco, like Hassan II Mosque, Jardin Majorelle-Yves Saint Laurent Mansion, and  Jamaa el Fna Square. 

Angola 

Safety Score : 1.982

Worldwide Rank: 78

Population : 3.45 crores (2021)

Capital City: Luanda 

Tourists Per Year : 218,000 (2019) 

Angola is Africa’s seventh largest country, with vast landscapes, unexplored rainforests, and deserts. Angola is the richest in Africa in terms of oil exports. The best time to visit Angola is June to September. Using air will be the most convenient way to reach Angola. You will be able to find Kalandula waterfall, a pleasing one in Malanje province, the traditional samba dance of Angola, rediscovered Giant Sable, etc. The attractions of Angola include the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour, Viewpoint of the Moon, Calendula Falls, etc. 

Safety Score: 1.945

Worldwide Rank: 72

Population: 1.35 crores ( 2021) 

Capital City: Kigali

Tourists Per Year : 1.63 (2019) 

Rwanda is a landlocked country without any access to the ocean. This republic lies in the southern direction of the equator, part of east-central Africa. A significant contributor to Rwanda’s economy is wildlife tourism. This includes Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, and the King’s Palace Museum. The best time to visit Rwanda is June to September. Three airports in Rwanda connect to various parts of the world. There are many activities you can do in Rwanda, including gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park, visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park, Kigali Genocide Memorial, etc. 

Safety Score:  N/A

Worldwide Rank: N/A 

Population: 5.88 lakhs (2021)

Capital City : Praia 

Tourists Per Year : 758,000 (2019)

Cape Verde is an African country on the Western side located on an island of the Atlantic ocean. Cape Verde is famous for its warm and cozy climate, islands, stunning landscape, and delicious cuisine. The best time to visit cape verde is Autumn and spring, from November to June. Air routes to cape verde connect America, Asia, and Europe. Activities to do in cape verde range from site seeing to adventurous. Attractions of Cape Verde include Praia da Chave, Tarrafal Beach, Pico do Fogo, etc. 

Safety Score : 2.7 out of 5

Population: 8022 lakhs (2021)

Capital City : Moroni 

Tourists Per Year : 45,100.00 (2019)

Comoros is located on the east coast of Africa, an archipelago consisting of four volcanic islands. Comoros is called a perfumed island because of its plant fragrance. These are important for making perfumes, also. The best time to visit Comoros is from April to November. Flights from Comoros connect the other parts of the world. The main attraction of Comoros includes long white beaches, clear sea, breathtaking landscapes, etc. Some of the main tourist attractions of Comoros include Mount Karthala, Chomoni, Bouni, etc.  

Safety Score: 2.089

Worldwide Rank: 100

Population : 22.8 lakhs (2021)

Capital City: Maseru

Tourists Per Year: 1.1 million (2019) 

Lesotho successfully earned the title of Africa’s “Kingdom in the sky” with its highest altitudes.  The only country in the world with an elevation of 100m is Lesotho. The best time to visit Lesotho is from October to April. The best way to reach Lesotho is by air or overland, that is, through South Africa. Lesotho is very mountainous and has incredible scenery. Lesotho attracts tourists with the world’s giant dinosaur footprints. There are many sites you could go and visit in Lesotho, including Katse Dam, Maluti Mountains, Gates of Paradise Pass, etc. 

Sao Tome and Principe

Safety Score :  0.656 in the Women, Peace, and Security Index

Worldwide Rank : 119 in GIWPS 

Population : 2.23 lakhs (2021)

Capital City: Sao Tome  

Tourists Per Year: 33,400.00 (2018) 

Sao Tome and Principe welcomes you to see its wild forests, Pico de Sao Tome volcano, green valleys, incredible waterfalls, and coffee and cocoa plantations. The best time to visit this beautiful country is Sao Tome and Principe is February, August, or December. The only way to reach the country is by taking a flight. There are many activities you could do in Sao Tome and Principe, like beach holidays, diving, mountain hiking and extinct volcanoes, fishing, snorkeling, and fishing. You can visit Saint Nicholas Waterfall, Cao Grande Peak, Rolas Island, etc.

Safety Score: N/A

Population : 99,258 (2021)

Capital City : Victoria 

Tourists Per Year : 428,000 (2018)

Seychelles is unquestionably the world’s finest tropical paradise. It comprises the oldest ocean islands, granite islands, the largest raised coral atoll, etc. The best time to visit  Seychelles is summer or in the months of  April, May, October, and November. The best way to reach Seychelles is taking a flight. Air Seychelles has an operation in Europe and Asia. The popular activities in Seychelles include exploring beaches, hiking mountain trails, rock climbing, and unlashing flora and fauna. If you visit Seychelles, you can’t miss Anse Source d’Argent, Vallée de Mai, Praslin, Seychelles, Saint-Anne Marine National Park, etc. 

Safety Score : 2.094

Worldwide Rank : 102

Population: 86.4 lakhs (2021)

Capital City: Lome 

Tourists Per Year: Nearly 1 million (2019)

It’s time to put on your swimming suit! 

Togo is a western African country known for its beaches. Togo is famous for its topography and fascinating cultural practices. The best time to visit is November to February. People from various parts of the world travel to togo using Tokoin International Airport. Important attractions of Togo include Monument de independence, Cascade de Kpime, Lake Togo, etc.

• Pingback: 13 Best Safari Parks and Game Reserves Near Port Elizabeth

Comments are closed.

Related Articles

Guides 20 Best Beaches in Cape Town in 2023

Guides Top 10 Game Reserves Near Durban in 2023

Destinations - Guides 15 Best Safari Lodges In Kruger National Park

Destinations - Guides 15 Top Safari Lodges in Sabi Sands Game Reserve 

Recent Posts

• 10 Best Safari Parks in Namibia in 2024
• 10 Top Places to See Lions in Africa 
• Must 15 Things to Do in South Africa 2024
• 10 Best Safari Parks Near Victoria Falls 
• Top 15 Reasons why you should visit Tanzania

Browse Categories

• Destinations 21
• Solo Travel 6
• Test Category 1
• Tips & Tricks 2

• You are here:

10 of the Safest Places To Visit in Africa in 2024

Heather Richardson is an award-winning travel writer, based in South Africa. She is interested in conservation stories, emerging destinations and adventure travel.

All travel comes with some risks, but many African countries are far safer than people might imagine. Here are our recommendations for 10 of the safest places to visit in Africa.

African Safari Tours

1. tanzania.

Due to the sheer number and variety of its animals, and the professionalism of its safari industry, Tanzania is one of the best countries for wildlife safaris in Africa. Tanzania is generally safe for travelers – most visits are crime-free. The majority of people will be traveling outside the cities, which lessens the risk of crime. Safaris are typically very safe and qualified guides know how to handle wildlife encounters.

• Tanzania safety : Most travelers will be flying around the country or in organized transfer vehicles, but self-drivers should be careful of potholes and not drive at night. It’s a good idea to ensure safari guides and Mt Kilimanjaro hiking operators have a solid, reliable reputation before booking.
• When to visit Tanzania : The Dry season runs from June to October – this is the best time for wildlife viewing.

4,790 Tanzania Tours

The Kenya safari industry is the most established in Africa, and good infrastructure enables travelers to easily get around the country. The country is largely safe for the many visitors it receives each year. Even within cities such as Nairobi, crime is not an issue for most tourists – though, of course, it pays to be cautious and vigilant. There are travel warnings associated with the Somalian border area and the northern coast, but it’s easy to avoid these regions.

• Kenya safety : The usual safety precautions apply in the cities. On safari, most risks are associated with wild animals – and with a good guide, these risks are minimal. If self-driving, avoid the roads at night and use a reputable car hire company. Traffic police are known to illegally demand fines on the spot – instead, you should ask for a paper detailing where and when you need to attend court to address the relevant charges.
• When to visit Kenya : Wildlife is best viewed from June to October when it’s dry, and the wildebeest migration is best seen in the Masai Mara National Reserve from August to October.

2,008 Kenya Tours

3. Botswana

It’s rare for travelers to experience crime in Botswana, in part due to the political stability of the country. Maun – the gateway to the Okavango Delta – experiences low levels of crime. Safaris are well managed, and highly experienced guides keep guests safe in potential wildlife encounters.

• Botswana safety : Travelers will usually be heading to wilderness areas with very few people. There is very little corruption, and the tourism industry is well established.
• When to visit Botswana : Wildlife viewing in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park is best during the dry months of May to October. You can witness the zebra migration in the Makgadikgadi Pans during the Green season (Wet season) from December to March.

460 Botswana Tours

Uganda is a popular tourism destination and visitors rarely experience crime, especially because most travelers spend little time in the cities where risk levels are highest (as is the case with most places in the world). Experienced rangers, and often security, accompany travelers into the forests to visit the mountain gorillas; most treks are trouble-free.

• Uganda safety : Uganda is largely a safe country for travelers. The usual considerations apply in cities, though during elections or times of protest, it’s wise to seek advice and stay away from the cities.
• When to visit Uganda : The driest periods are June to August and December to February.

1,185 Uganda Tours

A country of vast deserts, Namibia is popular for epic road trips, stargazing, wild safaris and adrenaline experiences from sky diving to quad biking around the adventure capital Swakopmund. The crime rate is low throughout Namibia, and few travelers experience any issues, which makes it ideal for those seeking safe places to travel in Africa.

• Namibia safety : Namibia benefits from a sparse population and most travelers head to areas well outside the cities. Namibia is free of serious conflict and is politically stable.
• When to visit Namibia : The weather is fairly consistent all year and there’s not as much rain as in other southern African countries. For Etosha National Park wildlife viewing, visit in the dry winter months from July to September.

195 Namibia Tours

Travelers in Zambia rarely experience any problems. As with most cities, there is potential for theft in hubs such as Lusaka and Livingstone, but the vast majority of travelers are unaffected by this and Zambia is considered one of the safest places to visit in Africa.

• Zambia safety : The political situation is relatively stable in Zambia, though you should avoid any protests. On safari, an experienced guide will know how to maximize safety and handle wildlife encounters.
• When to visit Zambia : Wildlife viewing is best from May to October. Visit Victoria Falls from June to August when the water volume is lower, allowing better visibility.

173 Zambia Tours

Rwanda is arguably the safest country in Africa, which is immediately apparent upon arrival in the relaxed and charming capital Kigali. Though there’s a lot of security around, this doesn’t tend to add tension for travelers; rather, the opposite. Safaris and gorilla trekking tours are well managed and mostly safe.

• Rwanda safety : In 2022, Rwanda was listed as the sixth-safest country in the world for solo travelers. Rwanda’s response to the genocide of 1994 was an attempt to pull the country together, rather than further dividing it. Today this has the effect of a solid safety record for travelers and Rwandans, with an emphasis on security.
• When to visit Rwanda : June to September is the Dry season and the best time to visit, although you can travel to tropical Rwanda at any time. It is recommended to avoid the wettest months of March and April.

369 Rwanda Tours

8. Mauritius

One of the safest places to visit in Africa, this island nation is perfect for relaxed holidays where security is of minimal concern. It’s a multicultural country where people live, for the most part, peacefully side by side. Families love Mauritius and the many beach resorts also help nervous travelers to feel safe.

• Mauritius safety : Mauritius is one of Africa’s wealthiest countries, politically stable, and typically very safe for travelers.
• When to visit Mauritius : May to November are the driest and coolest months. December to April is hot and humid, with most rain falling between the cyclone months of January and March.

Mauritius Tours

9. Seychelles

An idyllic cluster of biodiverse islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles has always been considered a very safe destination for travelers and one of the safest countries in Africa. There is little crime experienced by tourists, especially away from the main islands.

• Seychelles safety : The government is stable, and tourism is an established industry. Most people stay in beach resorts, which vastly decreases the chance of encountering any petty or serious crime. Be wary of riptides when swimming in the sea.
• When to visit the Seychelles : The Seychelles can be visited year-round. May to September is driest and coolest, March to May and September to November offer the best diving and snorkeling conditions.

Seychelles Tours

10. Lesotho

This little, mountainous country is landlocked within South Africa. Travelers in Lesotho usually spend most of their time in rural areas where crime is unusual, making this a destination that will appeal to those looking for safe places to travel in Africa.

• Lesotho safety : The relaxed and easy pace of life in Lesotho’s countryside makes it a pleasant place to visit. Crime in these areas is rare. The cities are not as safe, so practice caution when traveling through. It’s best to hike in groups and with a guide – not just for crime reasons, but also in case of injury, bad weather and for navigation.
• When to visit Lesotho : Lesotho can be visited year-round, but the weather is warmer and more pleasant from October to March (the Wet season).

Lesotho Tours

Want To Go on an African Safari?

Click on the button below to compare African safaris offered by top rated tour operators.

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 107,176 reviews and 222 destination guides. More About Us

Safaris by Type

• Luxury Safaris
• Budget Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking
• Chimp Trekking
• Family Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Photo Safaris
• Overland Tours
• Camping Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• Walking Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Self-drive Safaris
• Canoe Safaris

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

4-Day Best Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Trip

$1,320 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Allen Tanzania Safaris

5.0 /5  –  19 Reviews

8-Day Mid-Range Serengeti Wildbeest Migration Tour

$2,530 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti NP, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Kilimanjaro Airport (End)

Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris

5.0 /5  –  319 Reviews

5-Day The Serengeti Trail - Luxury Lodge Tour

$2,970 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro Airport (End)

Benson Safaris Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  220 Reviews

• Meet The Team
• Meet The Guides
• Traveller Reviews
• Sustainable Travel
• Kenya Safaris
• Kenya/Tanzania Safaris
• Masai Mara Safaris
• Nairobi safaris
• Malindi safaris
• Mombasa safaris
• Diani safaris
• Kilifi safaris
• Conservancies
• Tanzania Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking
• Jeep Safaris
• 3-Day Safaris
• Masai Mara safari
• Short Stay Safaris
• Kenya Honeymoon Safaris
• Tailor-Made Safaris
• Kenya By Air
• Hot Air Balloon
• Cruise ship to Mombasa Safari
• Maasai Village
• For Our Friends Over 50
• Tsavo East National Park
• Tsavo West National Park
• Amboseli National Park
• Nairobi National Park
• Samburu National Reserve
• Masai Mara Game Reserve
• Nyerere National Park
• Our new Nairobi Airport kiosk
• Important Travel Information
• East Africa
• Kenya Travel Guide
• Tanzania Travel Guide
• Uganda Travel Guide
• Rwanda Travel Guide
• Zanzibar Travel Guide
• Nairobi – Mombasa Train Schedule
• Wildlife of Kenya
• Masai Mara Lodges
• Amboseli Lodges
• Tanzania Lodges
• 4×4 Jeep Safaris
• Suggested Packing For a Safari
• Packing for Mountain Trekking
• Safari Gallery
• Booking Terms and Conditions
• Safari FAQs

• Travellers' Choice
• Exclusive Safaris
• Customised Excursions

Natural World Kenya Safaris Latest News

The Safest Countries in Africa 2024/2025

Natural World Kenya Safaris

• October 18th, 2021

Should I go to Africa? Is it safe?

The answer to these two questions is a decisive and loud, yes!

Nothing beats the natural beauty of Africa – from snow-capped peaks to rolling savannahs to flourishing forest. Imagine the view: herds of elephant roaming the plains underneath a brilliant sunset, framed by an iconic acacia tree.

Nowhere else will you see such an abundance of beauty in the land, the animals, and the culture. A visit to Africa is an unforgettable journey to a world that defines our place on this planet.

Of course, all travel carries certain risks, but many people don’t realize that most African countries are much safer than they have been led to believe. With just a little foreknowledge and common sense, you can enjoy the safari of a lifetime in one or more of these safe African countries. Africa is open for business and ready to welcome you on safari. Here are the safest places to visit in Africa, this most special of continents.

The safest countries in Africa

It suffered a troubled history, but today’s Rwanda may be one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. The violence of decades past has been a lesson to its people, and they have responded by creating a more cohesive and peaceful society.

You’ll feel this rebirth in the welcoming eyes of the Rwandan people who are more than happy to show you their modern capital of Kigali. The countryside is a pure, green jewel of lush mountains, harboring the exotic mountain gorilla. Rwanda is a warm, inviting example of a safe African country – indeed, one of the safest places to visit in Africa. We operate a number of safari tours in Rwanda .

With its picturesque red deserts, Namibia offers visitors incredible journeys through an otherworldly setting. This is a sparsely populated country and any crime against tourists is generally petty street crime in the capital of Windhoek, where you’ll likely spend very little time. The country’s desert conditions also mean the malaria risk is minimal. The Skeleton Coast, the Namib Desert and the south are regarded as almost risk-free. Politically stable with a developed infrastructure, the roads are good and medical services are competent and available. Be sure to visit Etosha National Park and the iconic red sand dunes of Sossusvlei.

Botswana is a landlocked country in Southern Africa bordered by South Africa to the south, Namibia to the west, and Zimbabwe to the north. It has a politically stable government and powerful economy. Civil unrest is extremely rare in Botswana and it has one of the lowest crime rates on the continent. For these reasons, Botswana is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit.

Botswana is also known around the world for its immense swaths of pristine wilderness, home to large prides of big cats and more elephants than anywhere else in the world. Safari-based tourism – mostly upmarket – is a vital source of income in Botswana.

The Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, springs to life each year when the rains reach its neck, transforming it into a lush wetland that attracts diverse wildlife. Another highlight of this sparsely-populated country in Africa is the Kalahari Desert, a sandy savannah which covers 70 percent of Botswana and provides sanctuary to countless species. Chobe National Park in the northeast corner of the country is a popular place for safari tours, where game-viewing is centered around the Chobe River from which the park takes its name.

There’s a reason why Kenya is one of the most popular African countries to visit: the game viewing is remarkable year-round, the people friendly, and the infrastructure for tourists firmly in place. These factors and more make Kenya a strong candidate as one of the safest places to visit in Africa.

While there is a long-standing travel advisory from the US State Department for Kenya, it applies only to a very specific, non-touristy region in the distant east of the country. The majority of Kenya is safe to visit and, in fact, the country where safaris originated draws a million-plus visitors each year to its incredible parks ( Masai Mara , Tsavo , Samburu , Amboseli ) without incident.

In the capital city of Nairobi, you’ll find rigorous security at airports and visible policing in public places, ensuring it is safe to visit Kenya. Of course, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings here, just as you would in any bustling city, as petty theft is not uncommon. Check out the latest safari tours that explore Kenya .

Mauritius ranks as the safest country in Africa on the Global Peace Index. An island nation and multiracial country where people speak Urdu, Hindi, English, French, and Spanish, Mauritius has a low poverty rate and secure beach resorts. The country is famed for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and easy, relaxed vibe. Whether you’re single, coupled or a family, you are certain to feel welcome and comfortable in this charming multicultural vacation spot.

And Mauritius isn’t just beaches – take a trip to the National Botanical Gardens with its hundreds of plant varieties or the L’Aventure du Sucre Museum, which sheds light on the country’s sugar trade. The capital city of Port Louis boasts a cosmopolitan dining and shopping scene and beautiful French colonial architecture.

With its stable government, Morocco is one of the safest countries in Africa, especially in the northern region. A popular travel destination for years, Morocco has well-developed tourist facilities and a reputation for vibrant, colorful cities. The capital city of Morocco, Marrakesh, enjoys a reputation as one of the best cities to visit in the world, and Fez is an exuberating mix of modern and ancient. Visitors, however, should be alert to petty crimes like pickpocketing in the big cities.

Pollution may be an irritant for some in Morocco, and female travellers might experience cat calls on the streets. Usually, dressing in long skirts or dresses, loose tunics and flat shoes is the best way to avoid such unwanted attention. All that said, Morocco is a colourful, captivating country with a rich culture of food, customs, and art.

A favorite for travelers who enjoy walking safaris, Zambia is a safe and politically stable wildlife destination. While there was some unrest in Zambia leading up to the August 2023/2024 presidential elections, that has died down since Hakainde Hichilema won a landslide victory over the incumbent president, instilling a sense of calm and stability. Either way, you will most likely fly straight to the countryside where the game is, passing by the possibility of any city crime.

While its infrastructure is not overly developed, a visit to Zambia is more than worth it for the wildlife – lots of elephant, lion, hippo as well as the elusive African wild dog. Before or after your safari in Zambia you can also visit the breathtaking Victoria Falls, half of which lies within the country’s boundaries. Do take precautions regarding your health as malaria is still prevalent here.

Home to Africa’s tallest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and the great Serengeti plains, Tanzania is, without a doubt, one of the premier countries in Africa for safari. It also happens to be a safe African country to visit. Not to be missed because of its vast wildlife populations, you should still take normal precautions, especially when in Arusha, Dar Es Salaam, and Stone Town (Zanzibar.)

That said, Tanzania is home to the Great Migration in the Serengeti and the otherworldly Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world, holds over 25,000 large animals. The Selous Game Reserve is famous for its large elephant herds and Gombe Stream National Park for being the place where primatologist Jane Goodall performed pioneering research on chimpanzees. The parks here offer every kind of wildlife experience, including millions of bright pink flamingos. Take a look at our range of Tanzania wildlife safaris .

Not to be excluded from any list of safest African countries to visit is the exquisite nation of Seychelles, a cluster of pristine islands in the Indian Ocean. A very safe place to visit, the Seychelles is a popular tourist destination for sun-worshippers and the yachting set. Here, you’ll find a stable government, little if any violent crime, and well-regarded tourism industry.

Perhaps the biggest danger in Seychelles is the riptides, so take care when swimming. Other than that, you’ll delight in a tropical climate that’s perfect for swimming, surfing, diving, and snorkeling. Besides the beaches and coral reefs, don’t miss the nature reserves and national parks for hiking and birding.

Which country has the lowest crime rate in Africa?

If we’re looking at the crime rate for African countries, Rwanda has the lowest crime rate, ranking last in the crime index for Africa in the Global Crime Index’s latest report . Despite Rwanda’s impressively low crime rates, for several years running, The Global Peace Index Report has placed Mauritius as the most peaceful country on the African continent. Overall, Mauritius is ranked as the 28th safest country in the world according to the 2023/2024 GPI report .

Which countries in Africa are not safe to visit?

The following countries in Africa are not safe for tourists to visit. Natural World Kenya Safaris strongly advises against traveling through these nations:

• Central African Republic – Crime
• Libya – Terrorism
• Somalia – Terrorism / Piracy
• South Sudan – Armed Conflict
• Mali – Terrorism / Kidnapping

Unfortunately, the above countries suffer from combinations of high levels of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed conflict which make them extremely risky for foreign visitors.

However, this is not a blanket ban on the entire continent. Unfortunately, the geographic unfamiliarity with Africa of the mass of individual American travelers combined with vague news reports in our soundbite-driven media has caused many Westerners to lump all African countries into one.

But Africa is the second largest continent in the world, after Asia. At 11.67 million square miles, Africa is as large as the U.S. (3.79 million square miles), China (3.70 million square miles) and most of Europe combined.

In Africa’s safest countries, you’re more protected on a game drive in a national park than walking the streets of a crowded city where petty crime may occur. And the link between economic stability and tourism is inescapable. The conservation of African wildlife directly relies on foreign currency generated by overseas tourism. The dollars you spend on an African safari help pay for important projects which in turn provide jobs to locals and preserve the ecosystem for everyone.

When tourism suffers, the domino effect on endangered animals and the surrounding rural communities is devastating. Traveling with a local operator, such as Natural World Kenya Safaris, ensures that the maximum amount of capital stays within local communities.

Recent Posts

• Last Minute Summer Safari Trips Kenya
• 9 Local foods in Kenya you need to try
• How to Safari Responsibly
• How to Plan a Safari
• 12 best luxury lodges and Camps in Tanzania

Fantastic Customer Reviews

Read 573 reviews

Our Accreditations and Booking Security

We are fully accredited by and proud members of the following industry organizations.

Natural World Kenya safaris is Member No.FA/440 - Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) bonding scheme . The scheme is insured to guarantee your holiday safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operating.

Natural World Kenya Safaris is Member No.FA/440 Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) bonding scheme . The scheme is insured to guarantee your safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operations.

Sign Up To Our Newsletter

• Nairobi Safari Center (Click here) ,
• 204 Sports Road,Westlands, Nairobi
• +254 704 00 11 22
• +254 758 499 507 (Operations)
• +254 720 894 288 (Emergency)
• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Click here) ,
• Parking Garage, Level 0
• +254 759 982 498 (24 Hours Hotline)
• Diamond Trust Bank Building
• Moi Avenue - Mombasa
• +254 412 226 715
• Natural.World1
• Galaxy Building / Chinese Restaurant
• Diani Beach Road, Ukunda
• +254 758 499 503

Book This Safari

Personal Information

All fields with an asterisk(*) are required

Telephone Number*:

Country Code*:

Email Address*:

Safari Information

Accommodation Category*: Please select accommodation category Luxury Superior Comfort Comfort Economy

Arrival Date*:

Start Date*:

Number of Adults:

Number of Children:

To serve you best, indicate here any additional information to help us create your perfect Safari

(e.g.Accommodation preferences, experiences, travel preferences, special occasions, travellers details e.t.c)

Yes, I agree to the Terms & Conditions Please leave this field empty.

Book This Excursion/Tour

Accommodation Category*: Please select accommodation category Luxury Comfort Economy

Arrival Date in Kenya*:

Safari Starting Date*:

Describe your dream safari, choice of lodges & special likes

Customize this Excursion

Do you wish to plan your safari within a specific budget (Please provide per-person guidelines in US$ if possible)?

Are there any special areas of interest you would like us to consider for your trip? Help us create your perfect Safari

(e.g.Accommodation preferences,additional experiences, special meals, travel preferences, special occasions, travellers details e.t.c)

Yes, I agree to the Terms & Conditions

Customize this Safari

• Kenya / Tanzania Safaris
• Tailor Made Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Booking Terms
• Safari Guides

Industry News

Ten safest countries in africa to visit in 2023.

• Source: TRAVELING LIFESTYLE

We are excited to announce that our latest program in Tanzania has been included in the list, which also features Globe Aware volunteer vacations in Ghana and Malawi. Take a look at the list for more details and discover the opportunities available!

10 Safest Countries in AFRICA to Visit in 2023

By VIKTOR VINCEJ APRIL 20, 2023 TRAVELING LIFESTYLE The very thought of traveling to Africa has a connotation of adventure & culture attached to it. The plethora of National Parks, the ecological abundance, the local culture, and of course, the wildlife.

The world's second-largest continent has much to offer to adventure-seeking tourists worldwide. Choosing a country to visit within Africa can also be quite confusing, especially considering every place has something unique to offer.

However, for most, the thought of visiting Africa rarely comes to fruition and in most cases, it is because one can get easily intimidated by an alien land. The issue is further exacerbated when a handful of the countries in the continent also report some of the highest crime rates in the world which also affects the image of the safer countries in the continent.

That is not to say that all of Africa in plagued with crime. In fact, most of Africa isn't, and this article will dispel the myth entirely as we list the safest countries in Africa that one can visit.

We have ranked the countries below in terms of their global peace score (Source: Wikipedia) (a lower score indicates more safety). Purely based on peace index, it turns out that Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia and Senegal are safer than South Korea.

" Each indicator's results are then merged to create a single unified GPI value for each country. The lower the GDI score, the more peaceful-and by extension, the safer-the country is considered to be."

1. Mauritius (1.570) - Safest Country in Africa

According to the current GPI ranking, Mauritius is the safest country in Africa and the 28th safest country in the world.

Mauritius is a cosmopolitan tourist paradise with beaches and lagoons, coral diving, water activities, the " Seven Colored Earth" of Chamarel and beautiful forests full of wildlife.

The overall crime rate in Mauritius is quite low and the crimes that do occur are mostly non-violent, such as petty theft.

Mauritius offers a wonderful combination of cultures, friendly people, varied cuisine, and a diverse ethnic community. There are activities for all types of travelers in this natural wonderland. Honeymooners often enjoy sunbathing on the beach or going out on the town in the evening.

2. Ghana (1.759)

Ghana is pretty much located in the centre of the world map. Although Ghana does not host too many of the other attractions that its African counterpart countries host - like Safaris, Wildlife, Eco-tours and more. It does have a lot in the way of cultural heritage that dates back to the 18th century. The capital city - Accra has negligible instances of crime reported and the city is always bustling with locals and tourists alike.

There are a few attractions that one can indulge in Ghana. Surfing in the beaches of Accra, discovering Jamestown, Cape Coast Castles and visiting a few national parks here and there are a few of the activities that make Ghana a great visit.

3. The Gambia (1.792) Tourism in The Republic of The Gambia is booming, and it's easy to understand why. The Gambia is known for its hospitality, sunny beaches, and diverse wildlife. Inexpensive safari tours give travelers a unique opportunity to observe leopards, monkeys, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds in their natural habitats, and world-renowned Kotu Beach is the perfect place to unwind after a long day spent exploring Banjul, the Gambian capital city.

Fishing, boating, and horseback riding are all popular beach activities in The Gambia.

The Gambia is one of the safest travel destinations in West Africa. Violent crimes in The Gambia are rare. The biggest threats are pickpockets and Bumsters. Bumsters approach tourists and offer to be their guide or promise to introduce them to The Gambia social scene. Some Bumsters target older women, offering romance in exchange for a new life in America or Europe. These men are con-artists, and they should not be trusted.

Fraud and scams are also common in The Gambia. Travelers should be wary of any unsolicited investment opportunities.

All in all, these countries are a standing testament that not all of Africa is riddled with crime. These countries remain unexplored by the international community largely due to inherent misconceptions but are a haven for adventure-seeking tourists worldwide.

4. Botswana (1.80)

Botswana was the safest country in Africa in 2021 but it has moved down to 4th position in 2022. A 1.676 Global Peace Index score makes it safer than the UK or Spain.

The land of the Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert & the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana is one of the hidden Jewels in Africa and is known not just for the flourishing wildlife but also the extraordinary views that each of the destinations has to offer.

Crime in Botswana is at an all-time low, the popular towns Francistown, Gaborone & Maun rarely experience any instances of serious crime.

If you're really concerned about safety in Africa, Botswana should be the number one pick. Safaris to Botswana tend to more expensive than a regular African Safari trip, so you may want to keep an eye on the prices.

5. Sierra Leone (1.803)

This tiny coastal country (at 71,740 Sq. km) is another haven for tourists who have Safety as their topmost concern. However, unlike the other countries mentioned previously, Sierra Leone does have a bit of a crime problem.

Over 60% of the country's population live below Poverty Line and as the saying goes " poverty breeds crime". Sierra Leone is known for its nightlife and parties especially during occasions like Christmas and Easter & the urban areas is where most of the crime takes place, the rest of the country is relatively crime-free.

As per the Government of UK, most trips to Sierra Leone are relatively risk-free, however there have been few instances of tourists being robbed at Gun Point. If you're visiting the country for a short duration, make sure that you avoid strolls after 10 PM & ensure you're always traveling in groups. Traveling with a local is an added safety measure. Source ( https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sierra-leone/safety-and-security )

6. Zambia (1.841)

The US department of state in its annual report on Travel Advisory has marked Zambia at level 1 for traveler safety. Which means, travelers ought to exercise regular precautionary measures and need not go overboard with the panic.

A few areas in Zambia like the Copperbelt and Lusaka province do experience higher rate of crime than usual but none of them are considered " unsafe" as per international standards.

The Victoria falls, Kafue National Park & the lower-Zambezi National Park are must-visits during your visit to Zambia, all of them are relatively crime-free. A Zambia Safari is notoriously " wild" with very few traces of modernity, even the number of Safari Camps in Zambia is fairly limited.

7. Equatorial Guinea (1.8638)

Equatorial Guinea is the ninth safest country in Africa, ranking 62nd on the Global Peace Index for 2021. The U.S. State Department issued a Level 1 travel warning in April 2022.

These islands are known for their beautiful blue waters, sandy beaches, and densely forested interiors. They are accessible by ferries departing from the capital Conakry.

Monte Alen National Park, a 2,000-square-kilometer (772-square-miles) park with lush rainforest vegetation, lakes and waterfalls, and animal species ranging from gorillas to elephants, is one of Equatorial Guinea's most popular destinations.

8. Liberia (1.88)

Liberia offers travelers the chance to experience West Africa's vibrant culture firsthand. The bustling capital city of Monrovia is home to dozens of markets where artisans sell their finest handcrafted wares, and the Liberia National Museum provides insight into the history of Africa's oldest republic.

Surfers from around the world flock to Liberia's palm tree-lined beaches to catch the perfect wave, and the inland jungles are home to leopards, elephants, chimpanzees, and the pygmy hippo. Liberia may sound like a dream vacation destination, but there are safety concerns to take into consideration before applying for a Liberian Tourist Visa.

Petty and violent crimes are common throughout Monrovia, especially in densely populated neighborhoods. Most crimes in Liberia are crimes of opportunity. Pickpockets frequent known tourist attractions, and armed carjackings often take place in broad daylight. It's wise to make travel arrangements through a reputable taxi company instead of hailing a cab on the street. Foreign tourists have reported being robbed by their taxi drivers.

Women travelers are especially vulnerable to crime in Liberia. Traveling to unsafe neighborhoods and walking alone at night is strongly discouraged.

Visiting Liberia can be a safe and memorable experience, but only if travelers take the proper precautions. There are always risks associated with foreign travel, and African countries like Liberia are working to improve upon safe travel policies.

9. Malawi (1.895)

Malawi, the eighth safest country in Africa in 2021, has a GPI rank of 59, placing it between France (55) and Greece (66). Malawi was included in Lonely Planet's list of top ten countries for 2022 for its " lakes, scenery, wildlife and culture."

Crime is generally minimal in Malawi. The biggest risks are handbag snatching and petty theft.

The country is known for its friendly, smiling inhabitants. It boasts an exceptional freshwater lake that dominates this landlocked country. The pristine waves and peaceful islands make for an ideal beach vacation.

9. Namibia (1.908)

Namibia's rugged landscapes contribute greatly to the country's uniqueness. Namibia is home to some of Africa's most amazing natural sites, including the world's highest dunes and the stunning Fish River Canyon.

Namibia offers space, tranquility and the opportunity to get away from it all: It is the second least densely populated country in the world, with only two people per square kilometer.

You can drive for hours under bright blue skies without seeing another vehicle, surrounded by landscapes so vast and barren that sometimes you feel like you are on the edge of the earth. There are not many places left in an overpopulated world where you can immerse yourself as deeply in the remote wilderness as you can in Namibia.

Namibia is a relatively safe country to visit. However, it does have a high crime rate. Crime is a serious problem in Namibia's capital Windhoek and in other parts of the country. Muggings and pickpocketing are common, especially in places frequented by foreigners.

10. Madagascar (1.912)

Apart from the recent uptick in crime in the urban areas due to rising unemployment and political instability, Madagascar is considered one of the safer countries in Africa. The island nation has many friendly residents and the nation's rich, natural bounty makes it a very lucrative destination for vacationers.

The Avenue of the Baobabs - a huge trail of Baobab trees is a strong candidate for becoming one of the 7 natural wonders of Africa. Tsingy de Bemaraha national park & the Ranomafana national park are among the few destinations in Madagascar that one can visit without worrying too much about safety.

Apart from this, the Ile Saint Marie & Ifaty are popular beach destinations are popular beach destinations that are regular for tourists. Crime rates here are also negligible and these places also host some unique activities. You can fancy a boat trip to spot humpback whales in the Indian ocean once you've seen too much of land animals in its many National parks.

Other relatively safe countries in Africa

Senegal (1.916)

Senegal does experience some petty crime and few instances of violent crime - most commonly mugging and robbery at gunpoint. But these instances are quite uncommon and at 1.883, the country fares better than France when it comes to country-wide safety.

Speaking of France, safety will most likely be the last of your concern since some of the biggest issues the tourists face has to do with language - which is almost exclusively French, few locals do speak broken English but it would be a great idea to hire a tour guide who is fairly adept at English.

Additionally, Senegal has a ton of attractions that tourists can fearlessly indulge in since these tourist attractions are not riddled with crime. The pink lake of Senegal is a tourist hotspot so is the town of Casamance where tourists can unwind and relax.

Birdwatchers will certainly enjoy places like Madeleine Island, Lagoon La Somone and the national park of DjouDJ.

Steer clear or remain extra cautious of places like Dakar and avoid late night walks in the beaches. Also, keep an eye out on the newspapers before your travel, Senegal is known to have a lot of protests and while most of them are peaceful, some of them do get ugly and result in riot police having to use aggressive tactics.

Rwanda (1.94)

Rwanda, known as the " Land of a Thousand Hills," offers unique experiences in one of the most amazing countries in Africa, thanks to its breathtaking surroundings and warm, hospitable people. It has a remarkable biodiversity with incredible wildlife native to the mountains, highland forests and vast plains.

Rwanda is committed to preserving the lives of several iconic species in its four national parks.

They work tirelessly to ensure that we can all live in sustainable harmony with the environment, with a clean and green mindset. In 2008, plastic bags were banned, and thanks to community initiatives, Rwanda's soils are probably the cleanest in all of Africa.

Ten percent of the revenue from gorilla, safari and other visitor permits and park fees is invested in working with local communities to improve people's livelihoods.

Rwandans are warm and pleasant, but they are also polite, thoughtful, and fundamentally committed to the idea of change.

From the ancient kingdom to modern times, innovation is valued, whether through traditional dances, unique buildings or works of art.

Morocco (1.96)

Morocco"˜s delights include vibrant marketplaces, desert hikes, climbing to distant waterfalls, and beach days. Surfing on the seaside, sipping mint tea in the medina, and exploring the ruins dispersed throughout its numerous cities are all options.

Morocco is very diverse in terms of landscape, so the climate varies depending on the destination. There is no bad time of year to visit this beautiful country, but spring and fall attract the most visitors, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 23°C.

The summer months from June through August face high temperatures reaching up to 45°C in the Sahara. However, cities such as Marrakech and Fez average about 32°C, which is great for spending time at your riad's pool. November through February are the winter months and typically bring cooler, chilly weather with rain, but the cities will always be bustling, as warmer temps remain throughout the day in the northern part of the country.

Morocco is known for being one of the most tolerant of the Arab nations. The country is relatively safe, peaceful and stable. Moroccan people, both Arabic and Berber, are also noted for their warm hospitality and friendly nature.

Gabon (1.97)

Gabon, located in west central Africa and on the equator, has the potential to become one of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

Currently, Gabon is one of the richest nations in Africa, thanks to its oil and mineral deposits as well as its small population. However, the late President Bongo recognized that Gabon's reliance on oil had become too great and in 2002 set aside more than 10% of the country for national parks, recognizing that Gabon's other natural resources would be critical to the country's economic future.

Amazing wildlife such as lowland gorillas and chimpanzees can be found here, while the pristine Atlantic coast is home to endangered turtles and whales. Although there is still a lot of infrastructure work to be done, it is a promising place for ecotourism and adventure travel.

Angola (1.98) The breathtaking beauty of nature is one of the main reasons to visit Angola. It could be noted that the country is lucky to have such a magnificent environment. There are many different types of landscapes there, including whitesand beaches, green hills, tropical jungles, sandy deserts, magnificent waterfalls and much more.

Angola is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Angola host more than 8,000 plant species, 275 animals, 78 amphibians, 227 reptiles, 915 bird species and more than 300 insect species. The African elephant, black sable, African lion, leopard, hippo, chimpanzee, rhinos, gorilla, antelope, sea turtle, whale, dolphin and shark are among the other creatures that can be seen here. Besides the friendly Angolans, the most important reason to visit is the natural beauty of the country.

Tanzania (2.00)

Tanzania is the hotspot for an African Safari at the moment. The country offers the most diverse experiences in Africa. From Safaris in the Serengeti to Treks in the Kilimanjaro Mountains. From Wildlife and bird watching in the Ngorongoro to relaxing beach vacations in the Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania has it all, and travel to the country has been made simple due to policy initiatives by the Government.

When it comes to safety, Tanzania is generally considered safe. The country has had close to 1.8 million tourists visiting the country during 2019 and very few of the tourists have reported any crime.

However, while Tanzania is a safe country overall, it would pay to be extra cautious in the below-listed crime hotspots of the country

Arusha Town: The Gateway town between the Kilimanjaro Mountains and the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manayara). Arusha is a fairly populous town and is also a layover town for tourists visiting the Northern Circuit- It is advised that tourists should not wear manifestly expensive attire/accessories and should avoid strolling out of the hotel area after dark.

Stone Town: The centrepiece of the Zanzibar archipelago also reports few instances of crime especially after dark during night-time parties. Tourists are advised to stay clear of this town during after hours

However, most of the tourists hardly ever spend any time in any of these places. Most victims of crime in Tanzania are locals are tourists hardly ever face any trouble. Tourists tend to linger around popular attractions like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro Mountains & the Zanzibar islands. All of these places are relatively crime-free.

As a bonus, Tanzania is not as expensive a safari destination as most of the other countries in this list. Most of the safaris are layered into different types and you can choose one based on your requirement. For more details, click here for details on Tanzania Safari costs.

Top 10 Safest African Countries for Visitors in 2023

Africa, a continent known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offers a range of safe and welcoming destinations for international travelers. While it’s essential to exercise caution and stay informed wherever you go, there are several countries in Africa that have consistently been recognized as safe for visitors. In this article, we’ll look into the top 10 safest African countries, where you can experience the beauty and charm of the continent with peace of mind.

Botswana, Southern Africa

Botswana, a land of untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife, stands out as one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers. It boasts a stable political climate, a low crime rate, and a well-regulated tourism industry. Visitors can embark on thrilling game drives in the Okavango Delta, explore the vast landscapes of the Kalahari Desert, and enjoy a serene and secure safari experience.

Mauritius Island

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a paradise island renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts. With a well-developed tourism infrastructure and a reputation for safety, this tropical haven offers a peaceful and secure environment for travelers. From indulging in water sports to immersing oneself in the island’s multicultural heritage, visitors can enjoy a worry-free vacation in Mauritius.

Namibia, South West Africa

Namibia entices adventurers with its striking landscapes, including the towering sand dunes of the Namib Desert and the vast Etosha National Park. The country is known for its warm hospitality, well-maintained road network, and low crime rate. Visitors can embark on self-drive safaris, witness incredible wildlife in their natural habitats, and experience the tranquility of Namibia’s breathtaking scenery, all within a safe and secure environment.

Rwanda, Eastern Africa

Rwanda has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, emerging as one of Africa’s safest and most stable nations. The country’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, exemplified by its famous gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park, is complemented by a strong emphasis on safety and security. Visitors can immerse themselves in Rwanda’s captivating natural beauty, encounter endangered mountain gorillas, and explore its vibrant cities with confidence.

Seychelles Island

Renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Seychelles offers a tranquil escape for visitors. This archipelago nation has a robust tourism industry and a reputation for safety, making it an idyllic destination for relaxation and water-based activities. Whether it’s snorkeling in pristine coral reefs, enjoying leisurely beach walks, or indulging in luxury resorts, travelers can unwind in a secure and peaceful environment.

Ghana, West Africa

Ghana, often referred to as the “Gateway to West Africa,” boasts a rich cultural heritage, welcoming locals, and a stable political environment. The country’s vibrant markets, historic sites such as Cape Coast Castle, and diverse landscapes make it an appealing and secure destination for travelers. Visitors can explore bustling cities, witness traditional festivals, and engage in immersive cultural experiences while enjoying the safety and warmth of Ghanaian hospitality.

Zambia, Southern Africa

Zambia, home to the magnificent Victoria Falls and abundant wildlife, provides a safe and awe-inspiring experience for visitors. The country’s commitment to ecotourism and its well-regulated national parks, such as South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, ensure that travelers can explore nature’s wonders without compromising their safety. From thrilling safari adventures to tranquil river cruises, Zambia offers a secure environment to embrace the natural splendors of Africa.

Tanzania, East Africa

Tanzania, with its iconic Serengeti National Park and the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, offers an unforgettablesafari experience within a safe environment. The country has a well-established tourism industry, friendly locals, and a stable political climate, ensuring a secure setting for travelers. Visitors can witness the annual wildebeest migration, embark on thrilling game drives, and conquer Africa’s highest peak, all while feeling safe and supported throughout their journey.

Morocco, North Africa

Morocco, a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern allure, offers a captivating experience for travelers. With a strong focus on tourism safety, the country boasts well-developed infrastructure, reliable transportation networks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore bustling medinas, wander through colorful souks, and marvel at architectural wonders such as the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, all while enjoying a safe and enriching cultural immersion.

Senegal, West Africa

Located on the western coast of Africa, Senegal entices visitors with its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and historical sites like Gorée Island. With a low crime rate and a reputation for stability, Senegal offers a safe environment for travelers to explore its rich heritage and enjoy its warm hospitality. From vibrant music festivals and traditional wrestling matches to the bustling markets of Dakar, visitors can delve into the vibrant spirit of Senegal with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Africa is a continent of immense beauty and cultural diversity, and contrary to common misconceptions, there are numerous safe and welcoming destinations for international visitors. From the pristine wilderness of Botswana to the paradise beaches of Mauritius and the captivating wildlife of Tanzania, each of the top 10 safest African countries offers a unique and secure travel experience. By choosing these destinations, travelers can embark on unforgettable adventures while enjoying peace of mind and the warm hospitality that Africa is renowned for.

Team Safari Safety

10 most dangerous african countries for travelers, gorilla trekking tours in africa: are there risks involved, related posts, safari vacation insurance: why smart travelers never skip it, outsmart scammers: the tourist traps you need to avoid, how to stay safe as a solo female traveler on..., how safe are hot air balloons flight in africa safaris, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Work With Me

• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Falkland Islands
• Netherlands
• Accommodation
• Electrical Gear
• Essential Gear
• Working Abroad
• Blogging Resources

Africa , Travel Tips

15 safest countries in africa to travel in 2023.

Well well well the safest countries in Africa to travel, I have set myself up for a fall here haven’t I?!

Because where do you start?

And come to think of it, where do you end?

And how do you risk not getting a backlash in the process?

Well, I’ve given it a good go and, as an experienced traveller in Africa, my desire is only to help others make plans and decisions that allow them to have the best time possible in this continent.

This is neither an exhaustive list, nor is it immune from political and climatic changes. It is based on my experience as a solo female adventurer and centres largely around Southern, Eastern and parts of Northern Africa as this is where most travellers tend to go.

So here it is, my list of the 15 safest countries in Africa to travel…

Related Posts

• 10 Best Destinations in Africa for Solo Female Travellers
• Your Unforgettable Africa Travel Itinerary
• The Ultimate Safari Gear Packing List

This article is written in good faith, based on my knowledge as a travel blogger. I am not an expert in African safety, nor can I predict how situations may change in this continent, as they quickly have the tendency to do. I cannot be held responsible for any actions taken in light of this article or advice.

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Grab Your Copy of How to Travel Africa for Less

• Full Planning & Preparation Guides
• Detailed Destination Info
• Complete Packing & Gear Lists
• Top Money-Saving Tips & Hacks

Click Here to Check It Out!

A word about travel safety in africa.

It kind of goes without saying, but kind of needs to be pointed out at the same time, that travelling in Africa always poses some element of risk.

As one of the most economically disadvantaged places on the planet, adventuring in Africa is always just that, an adventure.

When it comes to the safest countries in Africa to travel therefore, there are various factors that always hamper nations in this continent.

For a start medical facilities can be poor and dangerous diseases are sadly a matter of life here. From malaria to dengue, health risks are always an issue in Africa and need to be properly researched and taken into account.

In addition to this, climatic features such as drought, flooding, cyclones and extreme heat all blight this continent and definitely influence this discussion about the safest countries in Africa.

And finally, there’s the political elements of danger to consider when it comes to travel in this area, with everything from contested elections, civil unrest, political upheaval and terrorism feeding into the complex situation.

This means things can quickly change across this continent and countries or areas considered safe can quickly alter in a matter of days.

Unfortunately, I can’t keep up with the ever-evolving situation in the countries I list here, so it’s best to check the foreign advice at gov.uk for the very latest info and then use your best judgement to assess the risks.

My Solo Female Experience

What I now realise is that this list reads like a litany of horrors and that no right person in their mind should think of travelling to Africa!

But, of course, that just isn’t true.

As a sold up fan of African travel, I can confirm I’ve safely visited this continent on 5 occasions and travelled in 21 countries here entirely without any danger and am certainly planning to head back.

Because adventuring in this continent fires up my heart and mind like nothing else.

Quite simply, there isn’t anything else like it.

And I say this, of course, as a solo female traveller.

For honestly, if you take sensible precautions and avoid irresponsible risks, you’re likely to feel every bit as welcomed and at home across this continent as I have.

From not going out alone at night and avoiding strolling through dodgy areas, to not looking lost and flashing loads of valuables, it’s basically all about common sense when it comes to being safe as a solo female nomad in Africa.

And of course, going to see a Travel Health professional before you jet off, and following their advice, is a key part of it too.

Travel Insurance for Africa

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

How to Travel Safely in Africa

Another way to feel safer when travelling in Africa is to join up with others.

It must be said I’ve travelled many countries in this continent both independently and as part of group tours, and there are certainly pros and cons to both.

If it’s perhaps your first trip to this part of the world, or your first solo trip abroad, then you certainly may want to book onto a tour in advance so that you can be assured of some company, a designated itinerary and an automatic safety net / source of advice if any difficulties do arise.

There’s so many tours across this continent, which vary in length, price, style and destination that it would be impossible to list all my recommendations here.

That said, if you’re looking for the cheapest possible option, then budget overland tours are the way to go and Absolute Africa are my favourite company in this department – I’ve travelled with them in several different African countries.

And the great news is that I’m currently offering my readers an exclusive discount on all Absolute Africa tours , meaning you can now travel even more in this amazing continent for even less!

Simply send this top African overland tour company an email to [email protected] , quoting the discount code BWSP, and start planning your incredible trip with them today!

And if you’re looking for something with a bit more comfort, or you want to take shorter safari trips, perhaps just in one park, or one country, then I highly recommend checking out the huge array of options at SafariBookings .

Simply filter your choices by date, destination and number of travellers to review all the top tours available to you…

List of Safest Countries to Travel in Africa

Ok, so without further ado, here’s my list of the 15 safest countries in Africa to travel… and why!

Namibia gets my vote as probably the safest country in Africa to travel.

With a desert climate, tropical diseases are less common here and malaria is generally thought not to be a risk in the south of the country.

In addition, the arid landscape means Namibia has one of the lowest population densities in the world and crime is very low.

The country is politically stable and fairly well developed, meaning the medical services and the roads are generally excellent.

The downsides to safety in Namibia are also due to its size and desert climate however.

Isolated and very rural, you may find yourself quite far from medical services if you fall ill outside major towns and breakdown support if you’re in your own vehicle can certainly be an issue.

Dehydration and heat stroke are also major concerns in this dry, hot land where temperatures are known to soar and where fresh water can be a precious resource.

That said, the marvels of this country, from Etosha National Park to the desert magnificence of Sossusvlei far outweigh any risks!

One of my favourite countries on the continent, check out these top-rated Namibia Tours for some great ideas about what you could experience here.

READ MORE: 9 Amazing Places to Visit in Namibia

#2 Botswana

Another Southern African nation on this list, Botswana is certainly one of the safest countries in this continent, with a stable political climate and a strong growing economy thanks to its wealth of natural resources.

Generally thought to have quite low levels of corruption, public services, such as roads and medical infrastructure are good across the country and civil unrest almost unheard of in recent years.

Botswana does have a lot of large, wild animals however, in particular a massive elephant population, and this probably constitutes one of the biggest dangers, particularly when driving or camping!

DISCOVER MORE: What’s the Best Time to Visit the Okavango Delta in Botswana?

#3 Eswatini

Number 3 on my list of the safest countries in Africa, the tiny nation of Eswatini actually sits within the country of South Africa.

It’s a very small country, ruled by an absolute monarch and with a limited population, who are devoted to their king, crime and political upheaval here is very low.

In addition, few dangerous wild animals add to the level of security in Eswatini and the rolling green hills of its landscape mean environmental threats are uncommon.

The main threat to travellers safety-wise is probably the distance from large medical services as Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), is a predominantly rural country.

LEARN MORE: 10 Incredible Things to Do in Eswatini

In at number 4 is the East African nation of Rwanda, which is now certainly one of the safest countries in Africa.

Once beset by a horrific genocide, this country has become something of a model for reconciliation, with a civil peace maintained since the tragic events of the nineties.

Having received lots of foreign aid to help it get back on its feet post the genocide, the infrastructure is very good across Rwanda and medical services are also developed.

The capital Kigali also has a good embassy presence.

Being located right in the tropics however, malaria and dengue can be a problem here, as they can across much of this part of the continent.

The risk of general infections developing from cuts and scratches is also a potential, so ensure you pack your antimalarials and anti-septic cream if you’re planning on travelling here.

READ MORE: The 7 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Sticking with the East Africa side of things, I’m also going to name Kenya as one of the 15 safest countries to travel in Africa.

Yes, this large coastal nation has had its fair share of terrorist-related incidents, as well as a notorious serious of disputed election results which lead to some civil unrest, but viewed in perspective, these events are isolated and you’d have to be very unlucky to get caught up in them.

I actually visited Kenya during the contested election re-run in 2017 and, even though I was in Nairobi at the time, felt very safe by avoiding the central areas and using rideshare taxis like Bolt instead of local buses.

Because aside from this, Kenya is one of the most developed countries in East Africa with excellent infrastructure and communication networks.

Medical services are good and the country’s large population mean health facilities are fairly easy to access throughout of the country.

In addition, English is widely spoken here, which makes things even simpler.

When it comes to environmental factors, avoiding visiting Kenya during the wet season when flooding, especially along the coast, can occur, is the best method to avoiding such incidents.

Thankfully, being so close to the equator, the threat of cyclones in Kenya is extremely low.

LEARN MORE: The Ideal Kenya Itinerary for a Tight Budget

Now moving across to West Africa, we come to Senegal, certainly one of the most politically stable countries on the continent.

In fact, this French-speaking, coastal nation is generally seen as one of Africa’s model democracies, with a good level of press freedom and democratic elections since independence in 1960.

Health issues are a risk here however with yellow fever, typhoid, malaria and rabies all present.

Despite these diseases however, which do permeate most of the region, Senegal certainly remains one of the safest countries in West Africa for travellers.

I visited here as a solo female and got next to no hassle, especially in the northern town of Saint Louis.

As always, my advice is to use taxis in major cities such as Dakar to get around, to avoid walking alone through the streets at night, and to avoid beaches entirely after dark.

#7 The Gambia

And hot on the heels of Senegal when it comes to the safest countries in West Africa is The Gambia, a tiny nation actually contained within Senegal.

Occupying a small part of the coast, The Gambia has long been considered a safe zone for travellers and is largely crime-free with good tourist infrastructure.

Petty theft, such as pickpocketing remains a problem of course, but take good care of your belongings and you should be fine.

As with many coastal areas in this part of the world, avoid walking along beaches at night and exercise caution when it comes to travel in big cities or on public transport, however I travelled independently here without any incidents – including crossing the land border from Senegal.

Moving up to the north now, this may prove controversial, but in my opinion, I definitely found Egypt to be one of the safest countries in Africa.

Despite having been blighted by political upheaval in recent years, as well as some terrorist activity, I found Egypt highly developed, easy to travel and stress-free as a solo female traveller.

Hassle to buy things on the street can occur, but politely declining any advances worked every time during my time in the country and I never once felt uneasy or unsafe.

Even using the metro in Cairo was easy – there are designated female carriages if you want – and rideshare apps across the capital, such as Uber, as well as good train and domestic flight networks, made getting around very simple.

It obviously gets very hot in Egypt, but outside of that there are few climatic dangers to deal with and neither is malaria an issue here.

Beyond diving in the Red Sea, you’re also unlikely to come into contact with any large wildlife, and taking a once-in-a-lifetime Nile cruise in this country is very safe and shouldn’t be missed!

DISCOVER MORE: Plan to Backpack Egypt? 27 Things You Need to Know

Morocco is another North African travel hot spot that is generally considered to be one of the safest countries in Africa.

Along with Egypt, it’s certainly one of the most stable in the north of the continent and has long been a hit with travellers, meaning tourist infrastructure is good.

Hassle can be a factor, as can pollution and many female travellers do experience some level of harassment, but in general, conditions within hotels etc are good.

And if you feel safer, you can easily book tours in advance, such as this award-winning day trip to the Atlas Mountains that includes a camel ride and return transport from Marrakesh.

Easy and quick connections to Spain via boat or via air to a huge range of European destinations mean if anything does go wrong you are not far from western comforts, and a growing economy means services tend to be of an acceptable standard.

You must just remember to dress appropriately in Morocco, which will not only show your respect for the religious modesty of this country, but also help protect you from the strong sun.

LEARN MORE: Top 9 Tips for Female Travellers to Morocco

#10 Tanzania

Moving back to East Africa now, we arrive into the country of Tanzania which I’m definitely going to list as one of the safest countries in Africa to travel.

Despite the different cultures and ethnic groups found throughout this nation, the political situation tends to be quite stable and tensions between varying groups is relatively low.

Arusha and the Serengeti are popular destinations very used to accommodating tourists and the island of Zanzibar is another favourite among travellers.

In the latter, just remember to dress conservatively in the capital, Stone Town , and to avoid walking along the beaches of the island at night. Otherwise, I felt very safe there.

Also, be careful if you are heading to Dar Es Salaam – the launching point for ferries to Zanzibar and make sure you only use licensed taxis or transfers here.

One factor you do need to consider if you travel to the coastal areas of Tanzania however is the weather.

Located south of the equator, but right on the Indian Ocean, cyclones, associated tidal waves and severe flooding can occur in these areas and are particularly prevalent during certain times of the year.

As such, checking the season you wish to travel in Tanzania is crucial to staying safe there, especially because infrastructure can be very basic.

READ MORE: Complete Tanzania Packing List

And heading north from Mozambique, we get to Malawi.

Another very economically disadvantaged country, Malawi is however known as the Warm Heart of Africa and in general, feels very safe despite the obvious poverty.

Lake Malawi forms the backbone of this country and there’s a stable level of tourist infrastructure here, but elsewhere in the country, it’s minimal.

Politically quite solid and with fewer large, dangerous animals around, Malawi gets my vote as one of the 15 safest countries in Africa to travel in.

LEARN MORE: 5 Epic Southern Africa Itineraries

And bordering Malawi is another large, long country I’d consider one of the safest in Africa to travel… and this time it’s Zambia.

Although Zambia has a large percentage of wild animals, is very rural and has very basic medical facilities, it is politically safe and not often blighted by environmental disasters.

Medical risks are the biggest concerns when travelling to Zambia as malaria is a big problem here… and watch out for the hippos too.

Take all the necessary precautions however and this can prove a very enjoyable and off the beaten track country to explore.

After all, who can resist the temptation to see Victoria Falls, which sits right on the border with Zimbabwe?

DISCOVER MORE: South Luangwa National Park : A Photo Essay

At number 13 on this list, I’m putting Uganda.

A landlocked country in East Africa, Uganda however is a tourist hot spot thanks to its population of gorillas and amazing safari opportunities.

Uganda also boasts the start of the White Nile and as such, there’s a good level of tourist infrastructure across the country.

Compared to neighbouring DRC, Uganda is a much safer place to visit the gorillas and compared to Rwanda, it’s much cheaper.

They have been recent stories of kidnapping in the north of Uganda, but these are isolated.

That said, you should certainly watch your belongings here and beware of walking anywhere alone at night.

You should also take precautionary measures against malaria, but outside of these common dangers, Uganda is certainly one of the safest and most rewarding countries in Africa to travel.

LEARN MORE: The 5 Uganda Safaris You Can’t Miss

#14 South Africa

Sadly I’ve had to make some changes to this article recently and remove one of my favourite countries – Ethiopia – from this list because of the escalating situation there.

In its place, I’ve opted for another favourite of mine (and many other people’s too) and that is South Africa.

When it comes to diversity and accessibility, this country certainly takes some beating in my opinion!

A delight for culture vultures, history fans and nature lovers, I’ve visited South Africa 3 times now and have always felt very safe and well looked after.

Even my parents have visited (they are in their 60’s), so you can rest assured South Africa isn’t just for the young!

Let’s be real, this country is not without its problems and crime across many of the cities here is very high.

But, that said, the excellent level of tourism infrastructure, as well as the easy-to-use and well-established transport across the country, make it easy to travel in South Africa.

In addition, this country is largely without climatic dangers and dangerous animals and, with lower occurrences of tropical diseases including malaria, it’s definitely one of the safest countries in Africa to travel.

DISCOVER MORE: Best Time to Visit Cape Town and Kruger

And finally, number 15 on my list of the safest countries in Africa to travel might prove controversial, but in my experience, it’s true, or at least it was.

Yes, the Islamic conservative nation of Sudan has recently undergone some big political upheavals, which means the situation there now is very troubled and also heart-breaking.

And I say this because never have I known hospitality like that I was shown in Sudan.

With strict Sharia law in place, when I travelled across this country as a solo female in 2018, I was something of an oddity!

As one of the only tourists here, the way I was invited into people’s homes and families was incredible.

I never once felt in danger and instead was looked after in a way that was almost embarrassing, given the differences in our economic situations.

The security situation has now changed in Sudan – due to welcomed political shifts which have sadly resulted in military violence – but once this country stabilises again (and I hope the will of the people will be listened to and that materialises soon) this is an absolutely incredible country I urge you to visit, if only to experience the amazing people who live there.

On a practical note, there’s no malaria and the main consideration is the heat, which can get up to a stifling 50 degrees at certain times of the year.

DISCOVER MORE: Is Sudan Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Just enter your details below and I'll email it you - simple!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

Mini Travel Guide to Africa

When to Visit?

As a huge continent, it’s impossible to give an overall best time to visit Africa, so I’ve split this question down in sub-regions.

When it comes to North Africa, I highly recommend visiting during the spring and autumn months, ie. April to May and September to October, so that the weather is pleasant enough for sightseeing.

In West Africa, the high season runs from December through February, when the region generally experiences its lowest rainfall and humidity – definitely a good idea to visit at this time!

In East Africa, visiting during the long dry season is a great idea. In general, this runs between the months of July and September and also conveniently aligns with the Great Migration too. The short rainy season in November and December can be another good time to visit this part of the continent.

And finally, we come to Southern Africa.

If you’re heading to Cape Town, I’d visit between November and February, but for Namibia and Botswana, the best months are May through October when it’s cooler and less humid.

Best Tours in Africa

If you’re interested in an unforgettable, well-priced tour across Africa, with guides you can trust, or a self-drive trip organised by a great company, then email me at [email protected] and I’ll send you my top recommendations – simple!

Alternatively, I’m currently offering my readers an exclusive discount on all Absolute Africa tours , meaning you can now travel even more in the amazing regions of southern and east Africa for even less! Simply send this top African overland tour company an email to [email protected] , quoting the discount code BWSP, and start planning your incredible trip with them today!

Otherwise, if it’s strictly safari tours you’re looking for, check out these top picks .

6 Packing Essentials for Africa

#1 Swimwear and Sarong – One World Sarongs are always my go to and a must when you hit the beautiful beaches across Africa.

#2 Lonely Planet Guidebook – Their Africa edition is excellent and very helpful when it comes to a broad range of travel tips, maps and recommended itinerary routes.

  #3 Insect Repellent and antimalarials – I recommend a 30% DEET repellent for Africa and anti-malarials if you’re travelling in at risk countries – although please always consult the advice of a medical professional before any travels to this part of the world.

#4 World Power Adapter – There are at least 3 different types of adapters used across this continent, so make sure you come prepared with a Skross World Adapter at the ready.

#5 Camera and Lens – I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless , and have used it to capture the beauty of this continent and beyond. My GoPro Hero 7 was also amazing for preseving some of the adventure of my Africa travels too!

#6 Good Sandals – You’ll live in sandals in most of Africa and I would never travel anywhere now without my trusty pair of Arizona Birkenstocks !

Travel Money in Africa

When it comes to paying for things across this continent, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

And there you have it, my full list of the 15 safest countries in Africa to travel.

Can you tell how much I love adventuring in this continent?

Are you an Africa travel fan too?

Tell me why (and where your fav bits are) in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

30 thoughts on “ 15 Safest Countries in Africa to Travel in 2023 ”

A very helpful guide, Steph. I have only traveled to Egypt and Morocco but I’ve always been intrigued by the more southern countries in this amazing continent. Your advice will definitely help me plan my first family trip there.

So wonderful to hear this Sarah! Thanks for the great feedback 🙂

Hi Steph!!I’m an Indian Doc residing in Dubai,who’s on a silent quest to visit all the countries in the world(70 so far).I was preparing an itinerary for touring the west coast of Africa and thats how i came across your blog.Lots of useful information and tips!!! Great work and great hel for my upcoming African Jount.

Hi Manoj, thank you so much for taking the time to leave this comment and delighted you enjoyed the blog and have found it helpful. Good luck with all your travel plans and enjoy Africa 🙂

Thank you so much for this list, Steph. I’ve been a silent reader of your blog for about a year, and I’m always excited to read about your experience in Africa. I love that (like me) you enjoy traveling to and highlighting off the beaten track African destinations. This post is so needed to change the narrative on (solo) travel in Africa and I’m grateful for the inspo!

Thank you for this lovely feedback and so delighted you like the blog! Here’s to inspiring more travel in Africa 🙂

Ghana 🇬🇭 is also one of the safest and peaceful places to visit

Super to know, thanks. Can’t wait to visit West Africa 🙂

Nigeria is a very peaceful place to be and very accommodating. It has all tribes and freedom humans deserved.

Thanks Fiona, I would absolutely love to visit Nigeria one day

Hi Stephanie,

I like your travel articles. You post beautiful pics of various places around the world. On this article “15 Safest Countries in Africa To Travel To. (12 Aug, 19), You listed Malawi as one of the Safe Countries. Then you went on to put a pic of an unfished village house which isn’t a tourist attraction at all. Am surprised that you wrote about beautiful Lake Malawi and ignored to feature any of its beauty in pics. I would love to see the Zomba, Nyika Plateaus. Majete, Nkhotakota Game Reserves, just to mention a few.

Hi Mike, glad you are enjoying the articles and thanks for your observation on the photo. I’ve actually written a post about Lake Malawi and included pics of the landscape there… sometimes you’ve just got to mix it up y’know! Thanks for stopping by, Steph 🙂

Two years ago backpacked Egypt to Namibia and back to Tanzania 10 months.No problems, obtained necessary visas along the way and joined with other independent travelers. My most useful item,my tent.Cut accommodation cost in half plus had clean,insect free,quiet place with in the g.h.secure compound. West Africa much more difficult and expensive than East Aftic Africa to travel. It,s a visa nightmare.

Hi David, sounds like an amazing adventure you enjoyed. And yes, West Africa still a mission on visas! Great tip on the tent – a very useful travel item indeed. Thanks for sharing your memories and advice here with others. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

I think it’s a perfect list. I have been to 3 of the 15 countries before. Uganda, my home country, Rwanda and Kenya. I traversed those 3 countries almost boarder to boarder and never encountered a threat. I have made trips to all national parks and game reserves in Uganda and Rwanda but, the road to those parks are well constructed, the security on roads is also fine and the people all around are welcoming.

Thanks so much for your input Gava, it’s much appreciated. Wishing you all the best, Steph 🙂

Thank you for these insights! Though it’s been a few years, Seychelles felt very safe and welcoming when I visited – so beautiful and unique! I hope to return some day.

Oh that’s a great addition to the list! Thanks 🙂

I have visited over 15 national parks in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania and they are all safe. The challenge is with the roads to the parks especially in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania but the adventure is amazing. Thank you Steph for sharing with us

Thanks Chris, useful to know. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

Africa is endowered with so much to see and thank you for giving a detailed article. i’m looking forward to visiting more places listed here this year

Great to hear Andrew, thank you. Best, Steph 🙂

Steph, you are on point. Africa is a beauty and it has amazing wildlife destinations. I think the challenge the continent faces is marketing and promoting the wildlife it has to offer. Your article is so important in marketing the wildlife of Africa and the best places to visit. Thank you so much

Thank you Sarah. So lovely to read your comments and thoughts. I totally agree and really appreciate your kind words. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

for Africa is such a rich continent, thanks for sharing with us such a great article

It sure is! Enjoy! Best wishes, Steph 🙂

I have been to 4 of the listed countries, that is Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. I however have to say that all countries are worth your visit, despite the fact that they all offer some what similar wildlife, but they are unique in their own different ways. Different cultures, traditions, and also unique adventure sites.

Couldn’t agree more! Love East Africa! Best wishes, Steph 🙂

Hi Steph! Thanks for sharing this helpful guide. With the exception of a few elements which can easily be noticed, Africa remains a safe continent to visit. Its just a place for everyone to enjoy… talk about safaris, foods, culture and many more.

Couldn’t agree more Nick. Happy travels, Steph 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in africa for 2023-2024.

Africa may not always register on the average traveler's radar, but those who visit have the chance to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, and East and West. From Cape Town's coastal beauty to Tanzania's game reserves, choosing your adventure on the second-largest continent can be difficult. To help you start planning, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Africa based on accessibility, affordability and the variety of things to do, as well as user votes and expert opinions. Help us choose next year's top spots by voting for your favorite destinations below. 

Serengeti National Park

Victoria falls, masai mara national reserve, kruger national park.

If you're enamored with the prospect of coming face to face with elephants, giraffes, zebras and wildebeests, then a safari tour through Tanzania's Serengeti National Park is the bucket-list adventure for you. The price will be steep, but a journey here affords an unforgettable African savanna experience. To save some coin, book one of the park's campgrounds instead of staying at a high-end safari lodge or luxury tented camp. Plan on arriving in January or February (calving season) or between June and October (dry season and prime migration time) for the best game-viewing conditions.

Outdoorsy types travel far and wide to admire this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Victoria Falls is roughly twice as deep and wide as Niagara Falls, making it one of the world's most jaw-dropping waterfalls . To see this natural wonder at its prime, plan a visit in April or May when the region's rainy season has concluded. Popular vantage points include the Knife-Edge Bridge, Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool. When you're not enjoying the view from above, go whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River to admire the falls from a different angle.

Most tourists head to Tanzania to go on safari, but you'd be remiss if you didn't save time for the country's other must-see treasures. In addition to its animal-filled plains, Tanzania boasts otherworldly natural wonders, including red-hued Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Conservation Area's expansive crater and Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa (and largest free-standing mountain on Earth). For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book a climbing excursion up the continent's famous mountain through a local tour operator.

Mauritius appeals to vacationers in search of a bit of everything. Though its main draws are its powdery sands and luxe beach resorts , this small island nation east of Madagascar also charms visitors with its mix of cultures; friendly locals; lively festivals and tasty teas and rums. After a day of exploring some of the island's nature reserves and soaking up the sun, retreat to one of its premier properties to savor fresh seafood while watching a traditional sega dance performance or the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Home to cheetahs, elephants, lions, wildebeests, hippos and more, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Kenya's premier spots to see wildlife. Sign up for a safari to explore this protected area's 373,000-plus acres of rolling grasslands. (Tip: Look for companies with guides certified by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association.) For an extra dose of adventure, opt for a horseback riding excursion or hot air balloon safari. To increase your chances of spotting the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) and other migrating animals, time your visit between July and October during the Great Migration.

Zanzibar offers something for everyone, whether you're in search of beautiful white sand beaches or an unforgettable adventure. After trekking to this Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of East Africa, you'll instantly feel at ease as you lounge on quiet beaches like Matemwe and Kiwengwa. Next, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, where you'll find the ruins of a 19th-century palace and a graveyard with ties to Zanzibar's former Arab royals. And no trip would be complete without taking a spice tour in the countryside and exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. As an added bonus, you'll find this is a surprisingly cheap tropical destination .

A grouping of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles has long attracted those looking for a truly relaxing, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Spend your days lounging on pristine, crowd-free beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Source D'Argent, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Or, head deep into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vallée de Mai nature reserve to gaze at its unique flora and fauna. Keep in mind that lodging here is expensive (especially at the luxury resorts), so it's best to save up and book in advance.

With numerous hiking trails, miles of dramatic scenery and stunning beaches (including one with wild penguins), this South Africa hub caters to both adventurous and laid-back travelers. Getting to Cape Town won't be cheap, but your dollar will go far once you arrive. Make sure you take the aerial cableway up Table Mountain, visit Nelson Mandela's jail cell on Robben Island and explore the world-renowned Constantia Valley wine region. You'll also want to save time to trek through the Cape of Good Hope, which lies 40 miles south of Cape Town on the southern tip of Africa.

Cairo can be overwhelming, as there's so much to see and do everywhere you turn. From Islamic Cairo's bustling Khan El-Khalili bazaar to the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the picturesque Nile River, you'll be immersed in this Egyptian city's history and culture before long. Though winter offers the most pleasant weather of the year (with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s), it's also the busiest season, so consider visiting in spring or fall when room rates are lower, temps are bearable and crowds thin out.

Like other historic Moroccan cities, Marrakech buzzes with life: Performers vie for your attention in Jemaa El Fna (an open-air square in the heart of the Medina of Marrakesh) while vendors hawk aromatic spices, homemade textiles, ornate lanterns and more at the bazaars along the alleyways. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, unwind at a hammam, visit the Jardin Majorelle or head to a rooftop bar and relax before retiring to your riad. During your visit, keep an ear out to hear the striking tones of the nearby mosques' calls to prayer.

You'll spot plenty of animals – ranging from lions to rhinos to elephants to giraffes – in this massive game preserve in South Africa. Kruger National Park's network of paved roads makes it easier to navigate than Serengeti, and it tends to be cheaper to visit. However, its popularity (especially from May to October, which are the best months for wildlife viewing) means you're more likely to encounter hordes of visitors during game drives. Consider visiting one of the park's private game reserves for a more exclusive experience, and to ensure lodging, flight and tour availability, you'll likely want to finalize your trip at least a year in advance.

The habitat on the island of Madagascar is unlike any other in the world: Most of the landscape is unspoiled, giving visitors a chance to see animals in their natural environment. Travelers should look out for the country's signature animal: the lemur. Madagascar is home to more than 100 species of these creatures, as well as 11,000-plus plant species, including majestic baobab trees. Some of the best places to see wildlife and Madagascar's geological wonders include Isalo National Park and Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Be sure to save some time to island hop to Nosy Be for its world-class beaches.

Despite its small size and landlocked location in southeastern Africa, Malawi draws visitors with its gorgeous lake, diverse wildlife and friendly people. At Lake Malawi, one of the deepest lakes in the world, travelers can enjoy water sports activities like kayaking and sailing, soak up some sun on a white sand beach or dive beneath the lake's surface to look for colorful cichlid fish. The tiny country also features nine national parks and wildlife reserves, making it an excellent less-crowded option for a self-drive or a guided safari. For the best wildlife viewing, arrive during the dry season, which lasts from May to October.

Adventurous travelers who dream of spending their vacation surrounded by nature will love Botswana. A less crowded alternative to nearby safari destinations like South Africa and Tanzania, Botswana has a strong conservation focus and offers ample opportunities to spot rhinos, elephants and more in protected areas like Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, the oldest reserve of the Okavango Delta. Plus, adrenaline junkies can participate in all kinds of heart-pumping activities, including quad biking, mokoro (canoe) safaris and helicopter tours.

Kenya's capital city offers the perfect blend of urban pursuits and natural splendor. With museums highlighting its pre- and post-colonial heritage, bustling street markets and a thriving nightlife scene, Nairobi is a cultural hub. But its proximity to (and preservation of) wildlife is what makes Nairobi one of the world's most unique cities. The city boasts its own national park – Nairobi National Park, whose grassy plains host 100-plus mammal species including black rhinos – as well as wildlife conservation parks such as the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. What's more, scenery seekers can also visit the urban Karura Forest or hike the surrounding Ngong Hills.

Multi-Day Tours with Culture Trip

Experience deeply immersive 7-14 days itineraries with a small group of like-minded people. See all tours

Morocco 11 Day s

Epic Morocco

Ancient cities, Atlas Mountains and Saharan dunes – meet the many faces of Morocco.

Egypt 9 Day s

Ultimate Egypt

Explore the pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile and visit the Valley of the Kings.

Turkey 12 Day s

Majestic Turkey

The ultimate Turkish itinerary, from the bazaars of Istanbul to the beautiful beaches of Antalya.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Alexandria, Egypt

Addis Ababa

You May Be Interested In

Best Places to Visit in Asia

Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

Australia & The Pacific

Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific in 2023

Best National Parks in the World for 2024

Central & South America

Best Places to Visit in Central and South America in 2023

Best Islands in the World for 2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

12 Safest Countries in Africa for Safe Solo Traveling

Africa can be a challenging place for travelers especially for those who travel solo.

However, it doesn’t mean you cannot visit it especially considering the fact of how amazing this place is.

It is a great place to enjoy stunning nature, unique culture, friendly people, and wild animals.

You just need to know that traveling to Africa on your own is very hard and sometimes even impossible.

The reason is that local people are very friendly and you’ll for sure meet a bunch of new friends.

The truth is that most countries on the continent are proud of their friendliness and kindness.

You can explore the country by bus or enjoy a cup of coffee at a local cafe, or just walk through a street, you’ll for sure meet numerous locals that want to chat with you.

The great thing is that you can have a great time while hanging out with locals.

Also, you can easily meet numerous backpackers and solo travelers while exploring Arica.

Most people think that Africa isn’t a safe place for traveling but the truth is that it is vice versa.

Where To Start Exploring Africa?

Botswana safety overview, namibia safety overview, ghana safety overview, malawi safety overview, seychelles safety overview, mozambique safety overview, kenya safety overview, rwanda safety overview, madagascar safety overview, morocco safety overview, tanzania safety overview, zambia safety overview, so, is africa a safe place to travel solo, how safe is africa for tourists, which country is the safest in africa, which countries are the most dangerous in africa, can you drive across africa, is it safe for white tourists in africa, can you wear shorts in africa, what is africa famous for, what is considered rude in africa, are there unique traditions to africa, who found africa.

If you consider visiting Africa, you need to make sure you are ready for its wildness.

However, experiencing rough, wild nature doesn’t mean you shouldn’t worry about your safety.

While the continent is inhabited by the poorest nations in the world, the region itself is pretty safe.

Below, you can find the list of the safest countries in Africa for solo travelers.

Known as a former British Colony, Botswana is one of the steadiest countries in Africa.

As a result, it is a perfect place for travelers in Africa.

You can easily travel through the country and explore its beauty and culture.

One other important point is that most local people know English well so you’ll hardly experience any communication problems during your visit there.

If you want to experience something unique and interesting, take a ride at a “mokoro”.

Also, it is a great place to observe some wild animals such as zebras, hippos, elephants in their natural habitats.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Botswana Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

One other safe place to visit in Africa is Namibia which is known for its great governance.

Namibia can provide an unforgettable experience and great adventure while being one of the most stable countries in the region.

Going there, make sure to visit Etosha National Park which is inhabited by 114 families of mammals and about 300 species of birds.

If you want to explore this beautiful country, the best option is to hire a truck.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Namibia Safety Review

• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Ghana is one other incredible and very safe place in Africa.

All year round, Ghana can offer you gorgeous beaches, amazing country, stunning nature, and friendly people.

Numerous tourists from all over the world give preference to this country when they decide to visit Africa for the first time or want to experience something new.

Speaking of safety issues, Ghana is one of the safest countries in West Africa.

About 1 million tourists visit this country annually as the country is very exciting and has a low crime rate.

The fact is that the country’s economy develops fast due to the growing number of tourists from all over the world.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Ghana Safety Review

• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Less than 10 years ago Malawi was known as one of the worst places for tourists.

However, the new government changed the country and now it experiences an economic boom that makes Malawi one of the best places for tourists.

Usually, tourists give preference to rural areas where you can feel the real vibe of the country and Malawian culture.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Malawi Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Seychelles is one of those places you for sure should visit if you plan to go to Africa.

While having very beautiful places such as Petite Anse and Mahe, the country is known as a very safe place for travelers.

It is a perfect destination for those who want to have a relaxing vacation.

Numerous small islands of Seychelles were transformed into national parks.

In such a way, the local government wants to keep local nature safe and preserve its stunning beauty.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Seychelles Safety Review

If you are going to visit Africa in order to enjoy local beaches, a relaxing time in a hammock, a shade of palm trees, delicious coconut juice, you should visit Mozambique.

Just keep in mind that there aren’t many activities including fancy restaurants, nightclubs, and other activities.

It is a great destination for those who want to unwind and explore the country while backpacking.

The great point is that Mozambique has absolutely stunning marine life.

If you like snorkeling and scuba diving, you’ll be impressed by local underwater activities.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Mozambique Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: HIGH
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
• MUGGING RISK: HIGH
• SCAMS RISK: HIGH

For the last few decades, Kenya was discussed widely due to numerous natural disasters and terrorism.

However, recently, the level of safety and security increased significantly so now it is a pretty safe place for solo travelers.

Just keep in mind that as in any country, petty crimes are quite common there so make sure to look after your valuables.

Locals are very friendly and kind so you feel overjoyed with the friendliness and supportiveness of Kenyans.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Kenya Safety Review

• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

Considering one of the lowest crime rates in the region, Rwanda should be #1 on our list.

The history of the country is very tear-jerking and really rough however recently it became one of the most amazing places on the continent.

Also, the country is famous for its beautiful tropical forest which is one of the biggest on the continent.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Rwanda Safety Review

After the release of the animated movie of the same name, Madagascar became well-known due to its wildlife.

During your visit there you can see a variety of wild animals including cute lemurs shown in the movie.

Considering good governance and local policies, the country is really safe for tourists.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Madagascar Safety Review

Morocco is a pretty safe country so you shouldn’t be afraid of physical danger.

However, petty crimes are rather common there so make sure to follow some common safety rules.

This beautiful country has lots of amazing things to offer you.

It is known for the bust Djemaa el-Fna Square, the beautiful High Atlas Mountains, waste deserts, and friendly Berber people.

In fact, there are lots of reasons to visit this country especially considering the safety level there.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Morocco Safety Review

• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Tanzania is a perfect destination for solo travelers in Africa because of its incredibly friendly and kind locals.

“Ujamaa” or communism is a common notion in the country so there is a very low crime rate especially when it comes to horrible crimes.

In fact, Tanzania is the safest country in Africa so it is a great place for solo travelers.

If you want to experience something thrilling, make sure to climb Mount Kilimanjaro which is the highest mountain on the continent.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Tanzania Safety Review

Speaking of Zambia , some petty crimes and scams are rather common there but the violent crime rate is very low there.

In other words, traveling solo in Zambia, you don’t need to worry about your safety.

It is a great place for real nature lovers but even if you aren’t one of them make sure to visit Victoria Falls that are one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

It should be mentioned that there is a variety of cheap accommodations in the area.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Zambia Safety Review

The answer is pretty clear – yes, it is a safe place for solo travelers.

While being known as not the safest place for traveling, Africa is a great place to and most of the stereotypes about this place are false.

The truth is that there is a bunch of safe destinations on the continent.

Of course, there is a reason for those stereotypes as there are some pretty dangerous places.

However, if you choose one of the countries from our list, you’ll for sure enjoy a safe trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most African countries are safe for tourism as long as you don’t stray to undeveloped areas by yourself and always travel with a group.

Botswana is the safest country in Africa, but still not without its dangers, if safety precautions are taken, you have nothing to fear.

The most dangerous countries in Africa are:

• South Sudan

Yes! It’s possible to drive from North to South (or South to North).

To reach one end from the other you will need to stick to the east or west coasts and “drive around” the continent.

Just know, that not all countries on your way are going to be safe for travelers so make sure to have a plan in place for your road trip.

Mostly yes, but a single incident is all that separates “safety” for you, so make sure to be on alert, not everyone is accepting of other races, don’t force yourself where you don’t feel welcome, and travel with a group.

You can, however, it will be a good idea to avoid shorts and skirts because of the mosquitoes.

For women, it’s considered immodest.

For men, it’s part of the traditional school uniforms and as tradition, it’s only being worm by students.

Africa is famous for so much!

For example:

• It’s tropical beaches.
• Camping & glamping.
• Over 3,000 different cultures!
• Geological wonders, like the Namib desert and Victoria Falls.
• Safari and animals you’ll find in nature only on this continent.

Pointing at someone is considered rude and offensive, you better not point fingers if you want to avoid trouble.

Wow, there are so many!

But here are some of the most interesting traditions you’ll hear about Africa:

• Potency test – in Uganda.
• Bull jumping – in Ethiopia.
• Festival for the dead – in Malawai.
• Females lip stretching – in Ethiopia and Sudan.
• Spitting to greet someone – in the Maasai tribe.
• Getting beat down to earn a wife – in Fulani culture.

The Portuguese explorer, Prince Henry.

He was the first European to systematically explore Africa.

Additional Resources

3 Comments on 12 Safest Countries in Africa for Safe Solo Traveling

Africa is considered by many as an “unsafe continent” but really, it’s just like anywhere else, yes, there are dangers, but there are also wonderful people and beautiful nature to explore.

If you’re traveling to Africa, be sure to be polite and friendly and you will have no issues. good luck!

I’ve been on a 2-year job in Kenya and absolutely loved every second of it!

Africa is a great place for travel, but you do need to know corruption is high there and sometimes crime as well, so stay safe and enjoy, Africa, is incredible!

I really appreciate your response in answering these questions. I am from South Africa and believe South Africa is fairly safe for single travelers too. Best Regards

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Popular destinations.

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• Ty on Sao Paulo
• Samuel Lewis on 10 Safest Cities in Malaysia
• Albert Smith on 10 Safest Cities in Malaysia
• Mikael Henderson on 10 Safest Cities in Malaysia
• Nii on Guinea

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania