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10 MOST DANGEROUS Countries in Africa 2024 – [GPI Rank]

GPI is the acronym for the Global Peace Index. This measures the comparative environments of countries for their peacefulness. In the most recent update for 2023, the GPI ranked 163 individual countries and territories (that made up 99.7 percent of the population of the globe) for their peaceful levels. Over the last decade, GPI showed an increasing trend for rising violence around the world.

This GPI report is drafted and released by the IEP Institute for Economics and Peace. A highly esteemed international panel of experts on peace consults to create the final rankings and report.

These experts come from peace think tanks and institutes to work with data gathered and compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit. This index became initially launched back in the year 2009. Since then, the reports have been released once per year. The first year saw only 121 countries and territories compared.

RELATED: GPI Reveals World’s 7 Most Dangerous Countries You Don’t Want To Travel To In 2023

How Does the GPI Work?

The way the GPI index works is through carefully quantifying peacefulness on a national and regional scale. GPI researches to what extent the country in question is enmeshed in continuing international and domestic violence. It looks to consider the harmony level in a given country versus its level of discord.

They utilize ten separate indicators to assess the security and safety of society. It is inferred that fewer terrorist acts, lower crime rates, fewer violent demonstrations, stable politics, good relations with neighboring states, and a low number of displaced citizens will indicate that a country is peaceful.

The index has broadened its scope to include 23 separate indicators by the 2023 edition to determine the peaceful score of all nations and territories assessed. These indicators undergo review from the experts’ panel each year. Every indicator yields a score of from one to five.

Eight primary peaceful pillars underpin the GPI rankings. These include the following:

• Stable business environment
• Capable government
• Acceptance of human rights
• Free-flowing information
• Sound international relations with neighboring states
• Lower corruption levels
• Higher levels of human capital
• Fair distribution of national resources

The most important of these pillars in nations that are suffering from violence include lower corruption levels, effective government, good international relations, and accepting the rights of others in society.

Which African countries are the most dangerous?

Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan are considered as the most dangerous countries in Africa in 2023, according to the Global Peace Index. The rank is based on current economical, political, governmental situation and crime statistics. Traveling in these countries on your own is not recommended and you should be guarded by local police guide.

Next, we will consider the ten most dangerous countries within the continent of Africa in 2023. Sadly, most of these nations sit at the very bottom of the GPI index rankings when compared to all of the other countries in the world. 

10. Democratic Republic of Congo – 2.210

The biggest nation of sub-Saharan Africa and second biggest on the continent is the DRC. This Congo (formerly called Zaire) is also the 11th biggest territorially on earth. The population amounts to 84 million, earning it the spot of largest French speaking nation and fourth-biggest nation by population on the continent. The DRC is also the 16th highest populated nation in the globe. There has been a continuous military struggle in the eastern region of Kivu dating back to 2015.

The large territory of the DRC is based on the Congo River Basin. This country boasts vast natural resources but has not been able to capitalize on them because of poor infrastructure, political instability in government, severe corruption, and little development despite several hundred years of colonial exploitation and theft by the Belgians and their imperialist King Leopold.

The three largest cities are capital Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbuhi-Mayi, the latter two of which are mining cities. The biggest single export from the DRC is raw minerals, over half of which went to China in 2012.

Per 2018, approximately 600,000 native Congolese had immigrated from conflicts in the east and center of the nation to neighboring states that are more peaceful. There are a shocking two million children at risk of starvation, while the conflict has forced the displacement of over 4.5 million inhabitants.

9. Chad – 2.699

Chad, located in central Africa, has faced significant challenges that contribute to its reputation as a dangerous country. One of the primary factors is its volatile internal conflicts. Chad has experienced numerous armed rebellions, insurgencies, and political instability, resulting in violence and displacement of populations. These conflicts often spill over into neighboring countries, exacerbating regional tensions and instability.

Additionally, Chad’s vast and porous borders make it a breeding ground for transnational crime, including arms and drug trafficking, smuggling, and the presence of extremist groups. This poses a serious security threat not only to Chad but also to the wider region.

Moreover, Chad’s geographic location exposes it to various environmental challenges, such as recurring droughts, desertification, and the shrinking of Lake Chad. These factors lead to resource scarcity, competition, and population displacement, further exacerbating social and economic instability.

The absence of strong governance institutions, high levels of corruption, limited access to basic services, and a weak justice system contribute to the country’s overall fragility, making it a breeding ground for violence and insecurity.

8. Nigeria – 2.713

The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a state in West Africa. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean, between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south. With over 225 million inhabitants, it is the sixth most populous country in the world and the most populous country in Africa. It has a total area of 923,769 square kilometers (356,669 sq mi).

Nigeria has a Level 3 advisory, reconsider Travel by the U.S. government. 

This is due to the prevalence of violent crime in the nation, which includes armed robbery, assault, carjacking, abduction, hostage-taking, banditry, and rape. Kidnappings for ransom usually target American people who look wealthy as well as dual nationals who have visited Nigeria recently. On interstate routes, kidnapping groups have also stopped victims.

In Nigeria, terrorists are still planning and executing out assaults. Targeting malls, markets, hotels, houses of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, public buildings, transit hubs, and other locations where large groups congregate, terrorists may launch attacks with little or no advance notice. It is well known that terrorists collaborate with nearby gangs to broaden their influence.

7. Burkina Faso – 2.868

According to the Canadian Government, Travelers should avoid all travel to Burkina Faso, especially in the northern area and border region as follows.

Northern region

Due to the proximity of Mali and Niger, where criminal and terrorist groups are active, the threat of kidnapping remains in Burkina Faso’s northern region. If you intend to visit these areas despite the warning:

• maintain constant vigilance
• use a variety of unpredictable routes and itineraries
• use an armed security force as an escort

Border regions

Terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping are all prevalent in Burkina Faso’s border regions, particularly along its borders with:

• Côte d’Ivoire

In certain areas, states of emergency may be declared. When a state of emergency is declared, security forces have expanded their authority to undertake searches, seizures, and detentions of persons of interest. Some civil liberties, such as the right to protest and hold large gatherings, may be suspended.

Curfews may also be imposed by local authorities without notice.

6. Ethiopia – 2.872

Ethiopia has a level 3 travel advisory (Reconsider Travel ) by the U.S. government. 

According to the officials, travelers should reconsider travel to Ethiopia “due to armed conflict, civil unrest, communications disruptions, crime, and the potential for terrorism and kidnapping in border areas.”

Travelers must not visit:

• Tigray region and border with Eritrea due to military clashes, civil unrest and crime.
• Amhara region due to armed conflict and civil instability
• Afar region due to armed conflict and civil instability
• Border area with Somalia due to the possibility of terrorism, kidnappings, and land mines.
• Border areas with Sudan and South Sudan have been closed due to crime, kidnappings, civil unrest, and ongoing fighting between numerous armed groups.
• Border areas with Kenya because of the possibility of terrorism and racially motivated conflict.
• Wollega zones in the Oromia region have been affected by violence and civil instability.

Keep in mind that U.S. officials have very limited consular access to U.S. citizens detained by Ethiopian authorities.

5. Central African Republic – 2.934

The Central African Republic attained its independence in 1960. It then suffered through a variety of dictatorial rulers that included a brief attempt at monarchy. In the 1990s, the clamor for democracy caused the country to undergo its initial multiple-party elections in the year 1993. The first democratically elected president was Ange-Felix Patasse. He later fell to General Francois Bozize during a 2003 year coup.

The following year, the Bush War erupted in the Central African Republic. Although peace treaties were signed first in 2007 then in 2011, the civil war began afresh by 2012. Per the year 2023, the CAR suffers still from that civil war that has not seen a conclusive ceasefire since it began in the year 2012.

The nation is well-endowed with substantial valuable minerals and resources like crude oil, diamonds, gold, uranium, lumber, cobalt, and hydropower, along with significant amounts of arable land, yet it remains one of the ten most impoverished nations on earth. Its GDP per capita ranked by purchasing power parity is the lowest in the world per year 2017.

Finally, the CAR has the dubious dual honors of being the least healthy nation on earth and the worst place to live like a young person.

4. Mali – 2.963

Mali is the large landlocked nation found in West Africa. This eighth biggest state of Africa has a population of only 19.1 million and a capital at Bamako. A high 67 percent of the national population was under 25 years of age back in 2017.

The national economy is built upon mining and agriculture. Among the national resources of great value are gold and salt. In fact, Mali is the third greatest gold producer on the continent to this day.

Mali has been beset by armed conflict since January of 2012. That year, the Tuareg rebels seized control of a northern territory in Mali. By April they had declared their own nation called Azawad. The struggle became more severe because of a corresponding military coup in March of the same year.

Fighting erupted between the Tuareg and various other rebel factions. Mali appealed to its former colonial masters the French for help. France dispatched a military expedition under the name of Operation Serval by January of 2013. It took only a month for the French-led Malian national forces to retake the majority of the northern rebel territory. On July 28th of 2013, the country went to the polls and finished its run-off second election on August 11th. They also engaged in legislative elections on November 24th and December 15th of the same year.

3. South Sudan – 3.221

South Sudan is considered the most dangerous country in Africa and 4th most dangerous in the world in 2022, according to GPI rank.

Recent news & updates:

November 14: 4.9 magnitude earthquake strikes South Sudan-Uganda border region

May 3: South Sudan’s conflicts are not just between communities – Amnesty International

The UN Security Council will soon review the implementation of the arms embargo in South Sudan, which expired on May 31, 2023. Violence in South Sudan is often linked to human rights abuses and crimes under international law and contributes to the dire humanitarian situation in the country. 

The government denies its involvement in much of the violence, calling it “inter-communal” and downplaying its role in conflicts caused by political power struggles and competition for resources.

This account ignores the fact that the root of conflict in South Sudan lies in interethnic political maneuvering and competition among elites for control of power and financial resources. This behavior is fueled by a “winner-takes-all” mentality, which is essential to prevail in a zero-sum political system.

South Sudan is the newest country in Africa is South Sudan which broke away successfully from Sudan back in 2011. The biggest city and capital is Juba. A referendum (supported by the international community) for the independence of South Sudan received 98.83 percent support.

Unfortunately, the nation has experienced first ethnic violence and then a civil war from year 2013 until February 22nd of 2020. At this point, the two rival claimants Riek Machar and Salva Kiir agreed to a unity compromise that saw them form a coalition government together.

With 12 million people who are primarily Nilotic tribes, the nation is also among the youngest nations demographically on earth. About half of the population is less than 18 years of age. Most of the people are Christians with a small minority of traditional African tribal religions also present in South Sudan.

2. Sudan – 3.023

November 14: UNHCR warns of increasing violence and human rights violations against civilians in Darfur

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is deeply troubled by the recent events in Sudan, where the conflict in the Darfur region is intensifying.

A significant number of people are fleeing across borders in large numbers. In just the past week, over 8,000 individuals have sought refuge in Chad, a neighboring country. This number is probably an underestimation due to difficulties in registering the newcomers. The UNHCR, alongside the government and local partners in Chad, is gearing up for the potential influx of more refugees as the turmoil in Sudan continues.

May 3, 2023: Fighting intensifies in Sudan’s capital as US warns of new sanctions (Source: Guardian)

The current conflict in Sudan explained:

The core of the conflict revolves around two individuals: Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the military ruler and head of the army in Sudan, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (also known as Hemedti), the deputy leader and commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group in the country.

In the past, the two men worked together closely to overthrow the former Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir in 2019 and played a significant role in the military coup in 2021.

However, tensions emerged during talks aimed at integrating the RSF into the country’s military as part of a plan to re-establish civilian rule. The main point of contention was the question of who would hold a position of subordination under the new hierarchy.

According to 2018 national estimates, Sudan counts a population of 43 million and is the third biggest nation by territory on the continent. It is also the third largest of the Arab world. Until a few years ago, Sudan enjoyed the status as largest nation in both Africa and the Arab world before the secession of South Sudan in 2011.

Sudan gained its independence in 1956. It has suffered the rule of numerous unstable military regimes alternating with parliamentary democracies since then. The country went under strict Islamic Sharia law in 1983 under the leadership of Gaafar Nimeiry. It only made tensions reach a boiling point between the Islamic north and Christian south. The rivalries between religious beliefs, language, and political power burst into a violent civil war between the National Islamic Front-backed government armies and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-backed southern rebels. This only ended when South Sudan gained full independence from the north back in 2011.

Up till 2019, Sudan suffered from a 30-year duration military dictatorship under the leadership of Omar al-Bashir. His governing choices led to a Darfur Region war in 2003. The leader has been accused of performing ethnic genocide. In the end, the army killed between 300,000 and 400,000 locals. A successful coup overthrew Bashir on April 11th of 2019.

1. Somalia – 3.036

November 14: Dozens dead and thousands trapped in Somalia’s ‘worst floods in decades’

January 20, 2023: Somalia, extremists claim over 100 killed in intense battle (Source: abcnews.go.com )

Somalia and its 15 million inhabitants have been called the most homogenous country culturally on the continent. Approximately 85 percent of the citizens claim to be ethnically Somali. A few minorities mostly live in the south of Somalia. The two national languages of Somalia are Somali and Arabic. The majority of the population adheres to the Islamic faith as Sunnis.

In 1969, the Supreme Revolutionary Council grabbed power to set up the Somali Democratic Republic. This fell around 22 years after the fact in year 1991. The Somali Civil War destroyed it. This civil war caused the majority of its regions to go back to religious, traditional law.

By the onset of the new millennium, many federal administrations became established. The insurgents suffered the loss of the majority of their territory (that they had managed to seize over the past decades) by 2012 mid-year. An attempt to set up democracy ensued. August of 2012 saw the passage of a provisional constitution. The Federal Government of Somalia arose that same month and year.

Mogadishu the capital then became rebuilt after over two decades of fighting. Somalia’s economy today is highly informal. It relies heavily on livestock, telecommunications, and overseas Somalis remitting money back home to their families.

I’m a South African, it’s painful to realize that one will die having not experienced our own continent as much as we’d like to, no matter how much money you have. I’m so imotional typing cause I know nothing is gonna change, not in our lifetime.

I just had a look at the actual report and according to that data the chorological order based on the scores is as follows: 1. South Sudan (3,221) 2. Democratic Republic of Congo (3,214) 3. Somalia (3,036) 4. Sudan (3,023) 5. Mali (2,963 6. Central African Republic (2,934) 7. Ethiopia (2,872) 8. Burkina Faso (2,868) 9. Nigeria (2,713) 10. Chad (2,699)

But that’s before the recent sudani war I guess

Go to all these places and spread love.

I Thank God my country kenya is not in the list

Is anywhere in life really safe?

Nigeria should be the in the number one list, a country full of crime , i mean everyday crime , wished i am not from this part of the world

Never be ashamed of where you come from.

Yeah an absolute catastrophe of a country. Horrible, constant crime, corruption, you name it they have it. Horrible.

My cousin was a U.S citizen and was abducted in Ibadan. They found his remains along with many others in an abandoned building. We were told that it may have been ritualistic. So sad..

so very sad.. I am looking to volunteer in Africa, I’m so scared. Is there an online arickle I can read about your cousin and the others? Take care

Why you added Syria as part of Africa??? is literally in another continent!))))

Hi, Leren, you’re absolutely right, was the editor’s mistake. we took it off the list, thanks.

Read correctly

Buhari is the founder kidnapping and all the killings in Nigeria 🇳🇬, even a blind man knows it.

Where is South Africa? This post is far from the truth.

Well, we followed the GPI rank. Global peace index.

Please can I use this post on my YouTube content?🙏

Hi Amin, yes 😉 would be great if you can also link it in description.

My name is joshua why is nigeria there but they are the giant of africa

Nigeria is there due the high rate of kidnapping and killings !!!

Very true Dan. I am ashamed to say the least that this is my country. The rate of corruption in that country is unrealistic. May Allah help us all!

Ethiopia should be number 1. Burned human being alive. There is Genocide going on right now.

we try to follow the official sources and data (GPI) in this article

Ethiopia is actually safe especially compared to its neighbors South Sudan Somalia and especially Eritrea , the government are fairly responsible and have reconciled with rebels and put down civil unrests and the burning alive unlike some Eritrean rituals were by gangs now serving life in prison

I am not sure why you put our state picture (Tamil Nadu, India) under Democratic Republic of Congo.

Hi Anand, you are right! There was confusion. We replaced the photo with a correct one. Thanks for the heads up!

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• 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

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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.

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Find the best country for you: », places the u.s. government warns not to travel right now.

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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10 most dangerous African countries, ranked

While many parts of Africa are easily explored, others are not as safe. Here are the ten countries you should be careful with when planning a trip to the region.

The continent of Africa is one of cultural diversity, fascinating wildlife and stunning landscapes, which intrigues almost every traveller out there. Yet, there are some parts of the region you should avoid for specific reasons.

While many African countries are very tourist friendly and easy to get around, especially parts of East Africa and Southern Africa, other areas are notoriously unsafe due to infectious diseases, civil unrest and even threats of terrorism.

So, if a trip to Africa is something you have always dreamed of, it is worth noting the ten most dangerous African countries while in the planning process.

So, let us guide you with our list of the ten most dangerous African countries according to the Global Peace Index, their world ranking, and what makes them so unsafe.

The World Bucket List’s interesting facts about the most dangerous countries in Africa

• Did you know certain countries, like Nigeria, Somalia, and Mali, have experienced a significant number of terrorist incidents in recent years, as reported by organizations such as the Global Terrorism Index?
• Be aware that several cities in South Africa, including Johannesburg and Cape Town, have reported high crime rates, including incidents of robbery, theft, and assault.
• Countries like Nigeria, Libya, and Somalia have witnessed a notable number of kidnappings, including both criminal and politically motivated incidents.
• Countries such as Libya, Somalia, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic often have travel advisories issued by governments cautioning travellers about security risks, including armed conflict, crime, and terrorism.

10. Chad – prone to violent conflict

Chad is a country between North and Central Africa, which is said to be one of the most dangerous countries.

It is one of the least developed countries in the world, which has led to corruption, and the country has had its fair share of human rights violations and civil unrest.

9. Cameroon – not safe for tourists

Located in West Central Africa, Cameroon, a French and English-speaking African country, is known to have unstable border areas, carjackings, tourist scams, and ongoing crime.

In addition, Cameroon is considered an unsafe destination because of the volatile political system. There are also chances of petty theft and even kidnappings.

8. Mali – one of the poorest countries in the world

Mali is a landlocked country that can be found in West Africa, but due to the safety concerns of the region , it is not advised to travel here.

The country is known for having ongoing fighting, armed conflict and violent crimes, which have become more prominent since 2012.

7. Nigeria – armed robbery and hijackings

While getting to Nigeria may be straightforward, getting around the country itself is on another level regarding safety, with many incidents of armed robbery and roadside hijackings becoming more and more usual.

In addition, the threat of terrorism is another aspect that makes this an unsafe country to visit.

6. Sudan – plagued by political turmoil

Sudan is regarded as one of the most dangerous African countries and is privy to political turmoil, leading to precarious and volatile situations.

The country experiences regular civil strife, armed conflict and violent crime, which makes it a country to think twice about visiting.

5. The Democratic Republic of the Congo – the biggest nation in sub-Saharan Africa

The DRC has a reputation for being unsafe, with protests quickly turning violent and the risk of attacks, kidnappings, and violence against women recurrent around the country.

Due to its instability, the DRC remains one of the most dangerous African countries. In 2022, the Global Peace Index listed it as the sixth most dangerous country in the world.

4. Libya – risks of terrorism

Libya is a country in North Africa and one which is known to be highly dangerous, especially with the current conflicts, ongoing fighting and risk of being caught up in hostilities.

There are also risks of terrorism, and the country experiences an ever-growing crime rate score, which shouldn’t be overlooked.

3. Somalia – robbery and kidnapping are frequent

Considered as being a dangerous country, Somalia is known for its high level of criminal activity, piracy at sea, armed robbery and kidnapping.

In addition, infectious diseases such as malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever are also safety concerns regarding health in Somalia, making this one of the most dangerous African countries.

2. The Central African Republic – malaria endemic

This landlocked country in Central Africa has been known to have one of the highest mortality death rates in the world and a worrying problem with infectious diseases.

The country’s malaria endemic is one of the leading causes of death. Also, human rights violations have been a cause for serious concern.

1. South Sudan – torn by ethnic violence

As the fifth most dangerous country in the world as of 2022 and the most dangerous country in Africa, South Sudan is a place that has been known to have no element of safety at all.

The availability of weapons and the volatile security situation, and civil unrest mean this country is in great turmoil.

Read more: Top 10 best places to live in Africa .

Check out: Top 10 smallest countries in Africa ranked.

Read also: Top 10 most dangerous African animals .

Relevant: Top 10 most beautiful African countries.

Notable mentions

Egypt: Egypt may be safe compared to other countries listed, but tourists should take safety precautions. You should be vigilant and protect yourself from local viral and infectious diseases.

Burundi: Many governments deem this high-risk country in East Africa unsafe due to the substantial risk of violent crimes.

Burkina Faso: Known as one of the most dangerous African countries, this landlocked country is where street crimes, bandits and kidnapping are the norms.

Ethiopia: While Ethiopia wouldn’t be the most dangerous country on the list, there are certain risks which should be taken seriously, such as petty theft, civil unrest and threats of terrorism.

Your questions answered about the most dangerous African countries

Is botswana safe to live in.

Botswana is considered one of the safest countries in Africa . It makes for a great place to try out life in Africa.

Is Egypt safe for tourists?

While Egypt is not deemed unsafe for tourists, it is best to travel there as a group. It’s always best to air on the side of caution and be vigilant.

What is the safest country to visit in Africa?

Botswana is the safest country, closely followed by Ghana and Kenya.

So, there you have it. If you plan to visit Africa, check back with this list of the ten most dangerous African countries to make sure you are aware of the risks and can plan accordingly.

Jade is a seasoned traveller, yoga enthusiast, adventure seeker and travel writer passionate about seeing the world and sharing hidden gems with others. As well as having travelled to 91 countries thus far, she has written for several websites, including The World Bucket List, Meanwhile in Ireland and Ireland Before You Die. In 2022 Jade’s first book ‘ The Ultimate Irish Road Trip Guide’ was published and is currently available on Amazon. She is a keen writer of satirical articles, as well as ‘The best things to do’ and ‘The best dishes to try’ around the globe. Jade is currently on a campervan adventure around Europe, where she continues to get her travel and food inspiration. She is excited to share what she discovers with her readers.

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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 .

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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.

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The Safest African Countries To Visit (And The Most Dangerous)

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Thinking about a trip to Africa? Some destinations on the continent are a lot safer than others. The 2020 Global Safety Index ranks all the countries in the world by how safe they are based on metrics such as ongoing conflict, societal security, and militarization. Read on to find out about the safest and most dangerous African countries.

Botswana Is The Safest African Country

South sudan is the most dangerous country in africa, malawi is nearly as safe as italy, somalia is often a target for terrorist attacks.

Following South Sudan, the next most dangerous country in Africa is Somalia , which has also been given a Level 4 travel advisory. American citizens are warned not to travel to Somalia at all due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, and piracy.

There is an increased chance of terrorism in Somalia and areas that tourists are likely to frequent such as hotels, restaurants, airports, seaports, and shopping areas are often targeted. American citizens who must travel to Somalia are advised to dress conservatively and avoid displaying their cash or other valuables around.

Water, health, and electricity systems in the country are lacking by American standards and local laws can sometimes be hostile towards foreigners. Violence against women remains a serious issue in the country, where there are no laws against spousal violence. Female genital mutilation also occurs in Somalia, with 98% of girls having undergone the procedure by the age of 14.

Ghana Is Africa’s Third-Safest Country

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Most Dangerous Countries in Africa 2024

The majority of countries in Europe , North America , and Asia have been considered very safe. In contrast, many countries in Africa and South America are often considered dangerous. It is unnecessary to categorize the entire continent as Africa being unsafe, but which countries in Africa are safe and peaceful and which are dangerous? Does the answer correspond to wealth, with the richest and most developed African countries proving safer than Africa's poorest countries ?

How Is Country Danger Measured?

Even though plenty of measures are available that can categorize the safety or danger of a specific country, the most common metric is the GPI. This stands for the Global Peace Index , a comparative metric that looks at the crime rates across the board. Even though the numbers can rise and fall from year to year, some countries in Africa are persistently unsafe. Therefore, it is critical to use extra caution when traveling to these countries, but it might be better off to stay away from them entirely. There are ten separate indicators in the GPI that are used to assess the safety and security levels of a specific society. These include stable politics, lower crime rates, acts of terrorism, violent crimes, relationships with neighboring countries, and the percentage of its citizens that are displaced.

Is Somalia a Dangerous Country?

Without a doubt, one of the most dangerous countries on Earth is Somalia. Somalia is one of the most homogeneous countries in the world, but this also means that ethnic minorities are consistently suppressed. Ever since European ruling powers left Somalia, it has been a dangerous place. It is not unusual for terrorist attacks to take place on hotels, which is where a lot of travelers tend to stay. For more than two decades, the capital of Mogadishu has been rocked by violence. Therefore, the vast majority of developed countries recommend that people stay as far away from Somalia as possible.

Is the South Sudan a Safe Place To Visit?

Another one of the most dangerous countries in Africa is called South Sudan . South Sudan broke away from the rest of Sudan in 2011, but this doesn't mean that it is now a stable place. The country's capital is Juba, one of the most dangerous countries on the continent. The nation continues to be plagued by ethnic violence, and a civil war rocked the country from 2013 to 2020. Even though multiple ceasefires have been brokered since then, the country still experiences a fair amount of violence.

Can US Citizens Visit the Congo?

Even though US citizens can visit the Congo, this is generally not recommended. This is another country that has a lot of shootings, stabbings, and terrorist attacks. The government is highly unstable, and it is not unusual for battles, skirmishes, and even full-blown civil wars to break out from time to time. Furthermore, foreign nationals can be kidnapped and held as bargaining chips by different terrorist organizations.

• The Global Peace Index is a multifacted analysis that compiles 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to determine the level of overall peace in each of 163 countries. Lower scores indicate greater levels of peace, and higher scores indicate increased danger.
• In 2023, the GPI scores ranged from 1.124 in Iceland , the world's most-peaceful country, to 3.448 in Afghanistan , 2023's least peaceful country.

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Which country in Africa is the most dangerous?

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• 10 Most Dangerous Countries in Africa 2023 - Traveling Lifestyle
• Global Peace Index 2023 - Economics and Peace

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The Safest Countries To Visit In Africa

Malawi / Radek Borovka / Shutterstock

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For some, travel to the beautiful continent of Africa means transcending to a realm of unparalleled adventure. Planning for any trip overseas can be quite hectic and exciting, but remember — safety comes first!

Based on the State Department’s travel advisories, we’ve come up with a list of the safest countries to visit in Africa. The State Department’s ranking of countries from most dangerous to safest to travel to involves assignment of levels as follows:

1 – Exercise Normal Precautions 2 – Exercise Increased Caution 3 – Reconsider Travel 4 – Do Not Travel

At the time of this writing, 21 African countries have an overall Level 1 travel advisory, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions while there and that they are considered safe to explore!

Luanda, Angola / Fabian Plock / Shutterstock

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Exercise increased caution in urban areas.

Travel to Angola and visit the Kalandula Falls — one of the largest waterfalls in Africa — or travel to the growing city of Luanda. If you want a peaceful getaway from the bustling city, escape to Mussulo to view the serene beaches and stay in a secluded bungalow .

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Reconsider travel to Park Pendjari, Park W, and adjacent hunting zones due to terrorism and kidnapping. Exercise increased caution in urban areas.

Visit the birthplace of the Vodun, or Voodoo religion. Visit the historic memorial arch, La Porte Du Non Retour (The Door of No Return) while in Benin . This historic site remembers the enslaved Africans who were taken from the Ouidah slave port to the Americas.

Areas Have Normal Precautions: Exercise normal precautions.

While in Botswana , enjoy a three-day camping safari at the Chobe National Park — known for its large herds of Cape buffalo and elephants. While visiting the park, you should consider setting sail on a sunset cruise on the Chobe River.

Santa Maria beach, Sal Island / Samuel Borges Photography / Shutterstock

Cape Verde (Cabo Verde)

Visit a nation located on a volcanic archipelago — Cape Verde. You can venture to Sal Island while in Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) . If you head east of Sal, you can swim in the therapeutic salt lake in Pedra de Lume , which is the former site of a salt mine.

This is a mainly French- and Arabic-speaking country in Africa. Book a stay at the luxurious and top-rated Djibouti Palace Kempinski , and take a trip to the calm Lake Assal.

Equatorial Guinea

Take a trip to the Malabo National Park while in Malabo — the capital of Equatorial Guinea . You can also admire the spanish colonial architecture of the neo-gothic Santa Isabel Cathedral .

mbrand85 / Shutterstock

Eswatini (Swaziland)

In Eswatini , travel through the Mantenga Nature Reserve and get ready to be amazed by the 95 mile high Mantenga Falls and a village that exhibits Swazi culture and traditions.

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Exercise increased caution in Libreville and Port Gentil due to crime.

While in Gabon travel east of the city of Lambarene to scenic Kongou Falls in the Ivindo National Park . Also, consider adding Loango National Park to your itinerary to see a diverse array of wildlife.

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Exercise increased caution in Gambia’s southern border area with the Casamance region of Senegal due to landmines.

Experience affordable lodging, such as the Kerr Serign Holiday Home , or swing for some of the most relaxing accommodations on earth, such as the Ngala Lodge , on your trip to Gambia . View interesting wildlife at the River Gambia National Park in Banjul and dig your toes into the sand at Kotu Beach .

Kakum National Park / schusterbauer.com / Shutterstock

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Exercise increased caution in urban areas and intercity highways after dark due to crime, as well as parts of the Brong, Ahafo, Northern, and Upper East Regions due to civil unrest.

When visiting Ghana , venture to Kakum National Park to walk over the rainforest on the treetop canopy walkway. Also, admire the colonial buildings and castles that have been turned into museums, such as the Cape Coast Castle .

Maletsunyane Falls / mbrand85 / Shutterstock

While in Lesotho , view ruins on the Thaba Bosiu plateau that date back to the 19th century. You can even check out igloo-shaped mud homes in the Ha Kome Cave Village . And be sure to make the trek to the stunning Maletsunyane Falls in Semonkong!

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Exercise increased caution in urban areas and public beaches due to crime.

While in Liberia you can visit the Sapo National Park and view indigenous and endangered mammals, including pygmy hippos. You can also stop by the Liberian National Museum to browse information about and artifacts from Liberia’s history.

Majete Wildlife Reserve / mhenrion / Shutterstock

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Exercise increased caution in rural areas due to sporadic civil unrest.

Explore Malawi on horseback, foot, or boat. This African destination is home to nine national parks and wildlife reserves including Lake Malawi National Park , which is the perfect getaway for those who enjoy water activities. The Majete Wildlife Reserve is a great destination to visit in southwestern Malawi.

Mauritius is one of Africa’s wealthiest destinations. Visit the bustling capital city, Port Louis, and explore the waterfront or market. Stay in luxury hotels in the town of Flic-en-Flac and scuba dive into the coral diving areas.

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Reconsider travel to some northern districts in Cabo Delgado Province due to violent extremism. Exercise increased caution in Maputo due to crime.

Mozambique is a southern African country that has a coastline full of popular beaches perfect for deep relaxation. By visiting llha de Mozambique , you can see preserved colonial-style buildings dating back to the 16th century.

The country is also a voluntourism destination where writer Tam Warner Minton worked with elusive manta rays through All Out Africa .

Nate Hovee / Shutterstock

Namibia Is home to a large cheetah population. While visiting, take your adventure to the capital and largest city in Namibia, Windhoek . Several people groups, including German immigrants, are responsible for building up Windhoek, and tourists are able to tour German colonial buildings like the Christuskirche , or Christ Church.

See mountain gorillas and golden monkeys at Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda . You can also explore Nyungwe Forest National Park , which is home to several species of monkeys and chimpanzees.

Sao Tome And Principe

Sao Tome and Principe is an African island close to the equator. Here, you can see the needle-shaped Pico Cao Grande , a natural landmark that rises over 2,000 feet above the surrounding area. You can also relax on the scarcely populated Ilheu das Rolas islet.

Praslin / Tatiana Popova / Shutterstock

Creole is the primary language in Seychelles , but don’t worry because English is also widely spoken. The country is an archipelago made up of 155 islands. Sailing, diving, and fishing are some of the water activities tourists can enjoy, and popular islands include Mahe , Praslin , and La Digue .

Some Areas Have Increased Risk: Reconsider travel to the northern border region adjacent to Burkina Faso due to potential for terrorism and kidnapping. Exercise increased caution in areas north of Kande due to potential for terrorism and the cities of Sokode, Bafilo, and Mango due to civil unrest.

Togo is a West African country located on the Gulf of Guinea. View clay huts that date back to the 17th century at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Koutammakou . Also visit the fetish market in the country’s capital city, Lome, where you can purchase talismans and remedies relating to the Vodun religion.

Lukas Bischoff Photograph / Shutterstock

Zambia is a southern African country full of rugged terrain and diverse wildlife. The border that Zambia shares with Zimbabwe is home to the famous Victoria Falls .

Hopefully this list can be helpful to you on your trip planning to Africa. Now that you know the safest countries to travel to in Africa, are you curious as to what the most dangerous countries are? Learn about countries with Level 4 travel advisories , plus the most dangerous countries in Africa for travel .

Photo Credit: Lesotho / mbrand85 / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Seycehlles / leoks / Shutterstock

Traneah is a college student interning with TravelAwaits as a content writer for the summer of 2019. She enjoys writing about various topics and writes on her own lifestyle blog, NaeIsMe , in her free time. She hopes to continue writing upon graduating with her English non-teaching degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

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Safest Countries in Africa

Is Africa safe ?

The answer is yes, it can be. Africa is home to more than 54 countries spanning almost 12 million square miles, and many of those countries are relatively safe compared to other popular expatriate destinations.

There is a common misconception that Africa is just a massive desert covered with guerilla warfare, famine, and disease.

This could not be further from the truth.

Africa is a diverse continent with thriving high-tech cities, huge skyscrapers, beautiful coastal properties, world-class universities, and progressive enclaves with forward-thinking communities.

Think of it this way: just like there are safe and unsafe places in the United States, there are safe and unsafe places in Africa.

There are countries in Africa with a Level 1 travel advisory, which is the lowest level. For comparison, The U.K., Denmark, and Germany are currently under a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel advisory.

If you’re ready to start researching where to live, here is our list of the safest countries in Africa .

Is Botswana Safe to Live In?

Botswana has a steady democracy, and the city of Gaborone is both economically and politically stable. The country also has a low crime rate.

If you’re looking for an adventure, the Botswana safaris are managed by well-experienced guides that help to keep visitors secure.

Plus, most people speak English, so you won’t have to worry about a language barrier.

Is Namibia a Safe Country?

Crime rates in Namibia are low, though most foreigners tend to stick to areas outside of the major cities.

The safest part of Namibia is the southern part, where it borders Botswana (one of the other African countries to make this list).

Seychelles Safety

The city of Victoria ranks as one of the safest cities in Seychelles, as well as on the entire continent of Africa. The island of Seychelles has a stable government and a well-established tourism industry. It’s also known for its strong focus on freedom and human rights.

Is Kenya Safe?

Over the past few years, security in Kenya has improved quite a bit but, like anywhere else, you’ll still have to deal with pretty crime and theft. As a foreigner in Kenya, it’s especially important to be vigilant and keep your valuables secure.

Safaris’ are the biggest attraction in Kenya, where the guides are well-trained to shield travelers from all sorts of local dangers.

Read: Moving to Kenya: What You Need to Know

Living Safely in Rwanda

The city of Kigali ranks as one of the safest cities in the country of Rwanda. Kigali has one million residents with a large expat population that makes travelers feel comfortable and secure.

Rwanda as a whole boasts low terrorism and crime rates and puts a high emphasis on security. It is one of the least dangerous countries in all of Africa.

Morocco for Expatriates

The country of Morocco has a stable political system and is home to four of the safest cities in Africa:

Just like anywhere in the world there is some level of crime in the major cities, such as Marrakech, so be vigilant with your valuables, cash, and passports at all times. In general, Northern African is a dangerous place to visit, but the country of Morocco is the exception.

Zambia Safety

Petty crime exists in Zambia, but overall, the level of violent crime is low compared to other African countries. Zambia is home to one of Africa’s major tourist attractions, Victoria Falls. Most travelers stick to the more rural areas for safari experiences, where guides are trained in many ways to protect tourists.

Safest Cities in Africa

Keep in mind, the level of danger and security in Africa can change at any time. Before you go anywhere abroad, check the U.S. Department of State website for travel advisories and current threat levels. Currently, the safest cities in Africa for foreigners are:

• Kigali, Rwanda
• Tangier, Morocco
• Victoria, Seychelles
• Gaborone, Botswana
• Nairobi, Kenya
• Windhoek, Namibia
• Lusaka, Zambia

Related: See why South Africa is rated one of the top countries to raise your children in

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Most Dangerous Countries in Africa

Of course, there are places in Africa that are not safe. In general, most of the more dangerous countries are in central and north Africa.

Currently (as of January 2024), the U.S. Department of State has “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warnings for South Sudan, Sudan and Somalia.

Know Before You Go

If you want to live in Africa, do your research on the safest countries to live in. The most important thing is to make sure that you choose a city and country where you and your family will be out of harm’s way.

Looking for other international destinations where you can feel secure? Read our list of the safest places in the world .

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Top 10 Safest African Countries to Visit in 2024

• Last Updated: August 20, 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

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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!

Essential Travel Resources

🛏️   Book cheap hotels

I always use Booking.com to find the best deals on hotels. Vrbo is great for short-term apartments.

🚗  Find cheap rental cars

Check both Discover Cars and Rentalcars.com to find cheap rental cars.

🌍  Book the best tours

Viator and GetYourGuide  have a huge selection of tours in virtually every destination worldwide.

✈️  Find cheap flights

I use a combination of Skyscanner and Google Flights to find cheap flights. 

Airalo is my favourite travel eSIM provider – I’ve used it in over 10 countries and really rate it. So much easier than buying physical SIM cards when you travel!

🚑   Do I need travel insurance?

YES! Never travel without adequate travel insurance. It’s just not worth the risk.

• SafetyWing – if you’re a digital nomad like me, SafetyWing is super flexible and affordable. You can sign up for as little or as long as you want, and activate and deactivate it whenever you need to. I’ve made several claims in the last few years and thoroughly recommend this company.
• 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 ).

💻  Do I need a VPN?

YES! Always use a VPN whenever you use public WiFi (in airports, cafes, hotels, stations, etc.). This helps protect your personal information and also bypasses internet censorship and restrictions in certain countries. I use NordVPN and highly recommend it.

Alex Tiffany

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.

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• I’m Alex Tiffany. Originally from the UK, I’ve been travelling on-and-off for 13+ years. I love offbeat travel and discovering lesser-known spots.
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Most Dangerous Countries In Africa

World travelers love their big beautiful planet and jump at the chance to visit virtually every corner. But along with amazing flora and fauna and stunning vistas, the world is inhabited by human beings, and peace and harmony can sometimes be elusive.

Sadly, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI), the threat of unrest and violence has increased worldwide in the last decade. The GPI is drafted by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) using several pillars of peace, most importantly the level of corruption, the stability of government, accepting the rights of others, and good international relations.

Africa is teeming with unique landscapes, geological wonders, and ancient history and is a dream destination for many. Unfortunately, some of the most dangerous countries in the world for travelers are on the continent. They are not for solo travelers and should be visited with careful planning and precautions.

Here’s the good, the bad, the beautiful, and the ugly of the most dangerous countries in Africa.

Situated in the West African region on the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is the 15th most dangerous country in the world according to the GPI. It may not be a homestead in Kansas, but many travelers report it isn’t all that bad. It’s a beautiful country filled with many awe-inspiring natural wonders from a mountain range to tropical forests, beaches, desert, and city skyline.

Zuma Rock is one of the country’s most notable landmarks. Just outside the capital city of Abuja, the 725 meter-tall monolith is featured on the national currency.

Nigerians are friendly people and love festivals. Every year on the first of December, Calabar Carnival, known as “Africa’s biggest street party” is celebrated and attended by tourists from around the world. The month-long celebration includes parades, concerts, beauty pageants, and more.

The way to stay safe while traveling in Nigeria is to know where you are and where you shouldn’t go. The southern part of the country is relatively safe when taking normal precautions. Don’t flash pricey gadgets and money around. If you travel to Northern Nigeria, check the current conditions with the State Department.

The Federal Republic of Somalia is situated in the Horn of Africa and bordered by Ethiopia to the west and the Indian Ocean to the East. It has the longest coastline on the continent’s mainland.

Prior to the civil war that began in the 1990s, the tourist industry was blossoming and attracted travelers to its beaches, numerous historical sites, national parks, mountain ranges, and waterfalls. The country was safe for travel back in the late 1960s when the Somali Democratic Republic was run by the Supreme Revolutionary Council.

In the 1980s, peace ended after the Somali Civil War began and most towns returned to traditional laws. Sadly, the Ministry of Tourism stopped functioning after civil unrest began. Tourism resumed in 2000, but due to the lack of government regulations, no data is available on the number of tourists that visit Somalia.

Travelers to Somalia should be aware that civil unrest, terrorism, piracy, and health issues are common. Violence against women is an issue and spousal violence carries no penalties. Airports, hotels, restaurants, and other areas frequented by travelers are often targeted by terrorists to plan and carry out bombings and kidnappings.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Located in Central Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is Africa’s second-largest nation. The country formerly known as Zaire has a difficult history with long periods of instability from corrupt leadership to Africa’s horrific “world war.”

The DRC has three large cities (the capital Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbuhi-Mayi) and a vast amount of natural resources including raw minerals. It’s actually a rich country but because of military struggle, political instability, and centuries of colonial exploitation, most of its citizens are dirt poor. Two million children are food insecure.

However, by many accounts, the DRC is staging a comeback on the tourist scene. Travel advisories pop up regularly, but during times of stability, travelers come to explore the country’s magical wilderness.

There’s a host of UNESCO-designated national parks with raging rivers, active volcanoes, and plenty of African wildlife. When traveling with caution, the DRC is a nature lover’s paradise. But steer clear of the eastern region of Kivu. It’s the most dangerous part of the country.

South Sudan

South Sudan is a landlocked country bordered by Ethiopia, Sudan, the DRC, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and Uganda. Certain parts of the country have been plagued by endless civil wars keeping away visitors from Juba and the small, remote towns.

Negative news about the country’s political situation dominates media outlets. Going ignored is the fact that the country has one of the largest animal migrations on the planet. Sparkling rivers and lakes, national reserves, and 14 national parks are overlooked. So is the fact that it’s home to the world’s largest swamp (the Sudd) and one of the world’s best birding sites.

The bottom line is, that at this time South Sudan, one of Africa’s newest countries is a dangerous place for tourists. The country gained its independence from Sudan in 2011. But in the last decade, civil war and ethnic unrest have been rampant.

Kidnappings, carjackings, and robberies are common and pose a threat to travelers. Journalists are especially at risk. The US State Department reports that many have been targeted by local armed groups in the last 10 years. Some of them have even been killed.

Still, there’s a glimmer of hope for South Sudan. Rival leaders Salva Kiir and Riek Mahar agreed to form a coalition in 2020. Hopefully, this will lead to less violence on the streets of South Sudan.

Situated between the rolling Sahel and the Sahara Desert, Mahi is a land of heritage, history, cultures, and creeds. From the market town of Sikasso to the protected regions of Ansong, there’s everything from timeless tribal villages and colorful bazaars and markets to camel caravans to experience in Mali. Not to mention the intrigue of Timbuktu.

Up until 2012, it was relatively safe to visit Mali. Unfortunately, recent civil unrest has placed this country out of bounds for tourism. Rebels took control of the northern territory, and political stability is still a serious issue. The most dangerous areas are the northern and central parts of Mali. Because of violent crime, the US State Department has put western tourists on alert.

The Central African Republic

The Central African Republic lies mostly in Africa’s savanna zone with dense tropical rainforests in the southern portion and barren land to the north. The country has several national parks and wildlife reserves teeming with exotic African wildlife including the endangered black rhinoceros.

Although the CAR is rich in natural resources such as gold, diamonds, cobalt, uranium, and crude oil, it’s one of the world’s most impoverished countries. Since gaining independence in 1960, the country has been ruled by several dictators.

The first multiple-party elections were held in 1993, and the first democratically elected president took over, but a coup was organized by General Francois Bozize in 2003 who took over the country. Not much has changed since the beginning of the civil war in 2012.

According to the Human Development Index, the CAR is one of Africa’s most dangerous places. Robberies, aggravated assaults, and murders are common. Land and air borders are frequently closed, and tourists can be left stranded without a chance to escape.

Located in the Maghreb region of North Africa, Libya is a beautiful country near the rugged Mediterranean coastline and rich with Roman ruins and rumbling Greek cities. Sadly, because of civil unrest, it’s listed as one of Africa’s most dangerous places to visit. Uprisings of the Arab Spring in 2011 and over 40 years of harsh rule by Muammar Gaddafi have resulted in factional disputes, civil war, and extremism.

The US State Department warns that tourists are subject to robberies and kidnappings for ransom. Some airports are completely closed and most Libyan tour companies have ceased operations.

Despite constant warnings and travel bans by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and others, there is hope that world travelers can once again be mesmerized by metropolises like Benghazi and Tripoli.

Chad is a landlocked country in North-Central Africa. The resource-rich, semi-desert, and ethnically diverse country is little known to the outside world. Despite its lack of recognition, the country has vast oil, gold, and uranium reserves, three climate regions, and a national park teeming with a variety of wildlife.

Unfortunately, because of the high risk of civil war, violent crime, and kidnappings, traveling to Chad is dangerous for foreigners. Buses and taxis, the main modes of transportation, are unsafe and unreliable.

The commercial and market areas are rife with pickpocketing and petty crimes, especially after dark. The local police, or people who pretend to be, try to extort money from travelers through the use of intimidation and fake fines.

On top of all this, Chad is vulnerable to floods and epidemics. Clean drinking water and sanitation services are also lacking.

The country doesn’t see much tourism, but N’Djamena, Sarh, and Zakouma National Park are places worth a visit for those who plan their trip and take the utmost precautions.

Not all countries in Africa are dangerous, there are also some that are worth visiting. If you want to know more about these countries, then check out our article on the safest countries in Africa to travel to! 

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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The risk of traveling to every country in Africa, according to the US State Department

• The US State Department's travel advisories rate countries across the world to let Americans know what countries are safe to travel to and which ones they should reconsider visiting. 
• Fourteen   countries   around the world are designated "do not travel," due to civil unrest, terrorism, and violent crime. Six such countries are in Africa. 
• Here is every country in Africa and its rating from the State Department on travelers' safety. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The US State Department's public travel advisories let Americans know what countries are safe to travel to and which ones they should be wary of.

With at least   five Americans reported dead in the Dominican Republic   in the past three months, it's worth checking these alerts before going on your next international vacation.

The State Department uses   four levels of travel   guidance to let Americans know what to expect in each country:

Level 1 - Exercise normal precautions;

Level 2 - Exercise increased caution;

Level 3 - Reconsider travel;

and Level 4 - Do not travel.

Fourteen   countries   around the world are designated "do not travel," mostly because of ongoing armed conflicts. In Africa, six countries are designated Level 4.

Here are the travel advisories for every country in Africa, ranked from most to least risky based on the State Department's designation levels.

Sudan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and violent crime including armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

In April 2019, the department ordered the departure of non-emergency US government employees.

Violence has flourished recently as protestors demonstrate against President Omar al-Bashir's 29 years in power. Government forces stoked chaos when they responded with unprecedented violence against civilians in the latest wave of violence since a 2013 response killed more than 170 protestors.

The country remains in limbo after al-Bashir declared a one-year nationwide state of emergency in February 2019 that would allow for uninhibited government actions against the protestors who are pushing back on his term that has seen atrocities against his own people.

South Sudan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns of armed conflict, kidnapping, and violent crime including carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, and robberies. 

Conflicts among various political and ethnic groups have created widespread armed disputes and fostered a restrictive atmosphere. Foreign agents like journalists and US government officials have found the country difficult to navigate given the conditions, according to the report. 

Somalia - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns of crime, kidnapping, piracy, and terrorism that could affect areas frequented by visitors. 

Widespread terrorist attacks and the subsequent violent government responses have claimed hundreds of civilian lives . Wide stretches of the country have also been devastated by famine, displacing residents and leaving them vulnerable to extreme poverty and violence. 

Mali - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime including kidnapping and armed robbery. 

Ethnic violence has reached a fever pitch across the country after years of militia conflict. The government has proved largely ineffective in controlling extremist groups and protecting civilians from fatal violence. 

Libya - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns   of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and crime.

Terrorist and militia groups including jihadist and Islamist militia collective Brigade Defend Benghazi and Islamist militant group Ansar al-Shariah are of particular concern for the threats they pose to travelers, including detaining them at random, without access to legal or embassy resources

The advisory says:

"Outbreaks of violence between competing armed groups can occur with little warning and have the potential to impact US citizens. The capital, Tripoli, and other cities, such as Surman, Al-Jufra, Misrata, Ajdabiya, Benghazi, Sabha, and Dernah, have witnessed fighting among armed groups, as well as terrorist attacks. Hotels and airports frequented by Westerners have been caught in the crossfire. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence."

Central African Republic - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department warns of common violent crimes including armed robbery, aggravated battery, and homicide. 

The warning also references armed groups that control large areas and often kidnap civilians, and the US government has limited ability to assist US citizens in the country. 

The government has been largely rendered ineffective as regional militant groups ramp up the violence that has plagued the country since it gained independence in 1960.

Burkina Faso - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping throughout the country, where the US government has limited abilities to assist travelers. 

The warning also specifies several regions and neighborhoods in and outside of the capital city to which travel is completely prohibited due to a heightened threat of attack. 

The country has seen an uptick in violence perpetrated by Al Qaeda and other groups tied to the Islamic State that reached Burkina Faso after advancing from Mali and Niger. In May 2018, more than 12 people were left dead as national tensions over regional and religious differences that are stoked by extremist groups reached a fever pitch. 

Nigeria - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and piracy breaking out in rural and urban areas. 

US government authorities have limited access to provide emergency services to US citizens who may experience violence, according to the report.  

Violence waged in the country by Boko Haram in 2018 included the unresolved abduction of 110 schoolgirls, the kidnapping and execution of two aid workers, and twin suicide bomb attacks.

Failed efforts by state and federal authorities have complicated counter-terrorism efforts amid violence between herdsmen and farmers. Citizens' trust in the state has eroded. 

Democratic Republic of the Congo - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns of civil protests descending into violence and violent crime including armed robbery, armed home invasion, and assault sometimes committed by people posing as police or security agents. 

The warning specifies threats of crime, Ebola, and kidnapping in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces in the northeast and armed conflict in the east of the country. 

Ebola continues to pose a threat to the northeastern part of the Republic, where 1,506 people have died in the most recent 10-month outbreak. However, the US Center for Disease Control says the risk of infection for visitors is low. 

Guinea-Bissau - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns of civil unrest and violent crime, usually perpetrated by aggressive vendors, panhandlers, and criminals who target foreigners at popular spots in the country, including the airport and public market.

Mauritania - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns  of terrorism and violent crime, including mugging, armed robbery, and assault.

The terrorist group Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb launched several devastating attacks between 2005 and 2011, targeting diplomatic and government facilities and killing American and foreign tourists and aid workers. 

Niger - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns   of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime including armed robbery.

The advisory warns of heightened terrorist activity in the areas bordering Mali, Libya, Burkina Faso, and throughout northern Niger. The US government has limited abilities to provide emergency services to travelers as they are restricted to the country's capital and required to maintain thorough security escorts.

The country has worked to counter repeated attacks by groups like Boko Haram and its offshoot, ISIS-West Africa, who attacked both military and civilian targets , particularly in the south. Terrorist groups thrive among the expanses of rough terrain along which Niger's borders are drawn, which make border security a challenge to enforce. 

Burundi - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The State Department warns   of armed conflict and violent crime, including grenade attacks and armed robbery, which are common in Burundi amid fiery political tensions.

US authorities have limited abilities to deliver emergency assistance to travelers, even in the case of police raids and violent clashes at the border.

Power struggles between the Hutu majority and the Tutsi minority have crippled the country since it gained independence in 1962. A 12-year civil war that began in 1994 further damaged the country's functions.  

Uganda - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of kidnapping and violent crime including armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, particularly in the country's major cities like Kampala and Entebbe. 

Algeria - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of terrorism across the country, but specifically includes a Level 4 danger designation for travel in the Sahara Desert and to the country's eastern and southern borders, where there is an elevated threat of terrorism and kidnapping. 

Years of devastating civil war between the Algerian government and Islamist rebel groups in the 1990s disrupted the country, and created r egional instability with Algeria's neighbors Mali, Niger, and Libya, which have since experienced tensions and violence at their borders.

South Africa - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of violent crime including armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, particularly after dark in cities. 

Widespread civil unrest in the country also poses a threat of demonstrations that could disrupt travel or spark violence. 

Republic of the Congo - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of widespread civil unrest and crime, particularly armed robbery and assault. 

The Pool Region in the southwest is of particular concern for its violence, as the report notes that US government employees cannot travel to the area without special permission, making it difficult to assist Americans. 

Madagascar - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of civil unrest and crime that peaked around the country's elections in late 2018 into early 2019. 

The warning specifies that crime is common in the Ankarana and Montagne d'Ambre national parks, in addition to the coastal areas of Antananarivo, Batterie Beach, Toamasina (Tamatave), Tolagnaro, and Mahajunga.

The country's May 2019 parliamentary elections came after months of fiery protests and allegations of rampant corruption in the country's latest bout of civil unrest. 

Kenya - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent crime including armed carjacking, mugging, and residential burglary. 

The warning also bars travel to the Kenya-Somalia border due to the threat of terrorism and the northwest Turkana County due to crime. Nairobi, the country's capital city, also poses threats of crime and kidnapping, according to the warning. 

Morocco - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of terrorist activity that could mean attacks on public places frequented by tourists, including transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Eritrea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of landmines in several remote areas and the government's restrictions on travel rights and services for visitors. 

The warning notes that Eritrean law enforcement often blocks communication between detained foreign nationals and their embassies and US government employees need special permission to travel outside of Asmara, the country's capital. 

Mines have posed a threat to several areas across Eritrea since World War II, but most recently in the aftermath of the struggle for independence that lasted from 1962 to 1991 and its armed conflict at the border with Ethiopia in 1998 to 2000.

Removal efforts by the government and outside organizations have found mixed success , and mines still pose fatal threats to Eritreans. 

Cameroon - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of violent crime including robbery and carjacking, which local authorities lack the resources to confront. 

The report also identifies threats of armed conflict in the northwest and southwest regions and terrorism in the far north region. 

Cote d'Ivoire - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of terrorism and violent crime including carjacking, robbery, and home invasion.

The agency also says that foreign government authorities are limited in their abilities to assist visitors, as "embassy personnel are prohibited from driving outside the major cities after dark."

Ethiopia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of civil unrest and communications disruptions. 

The warning also marks the Somali Regional State as off-limits, due to threats of civil unrest, terrorism, kidnapping, and landmines. Armed conflict and civil unrest plague several regions, including border regions and several ethnic regional states. 

Guinea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of civil unrest in Guinea, where demonstrations unravel into violence that can turn to criminals targeting travelers who happen to be nearby for muggings or robberies.

Egypt - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of terrorism that could mean attacks on popular public places, with which the US government can't assist those affected. 

The threats are widespread across the country, but the warning cites an increased risk on the Sinai Peninsula. 

Zimbabwe - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of widespread crime and civil unrest posing threats of violent crime including assault, carjacking, and home invasion. The warning also specifies that local police "lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents."

Tanzania - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of crime, terrorism, and targeting of LGBTQ people.

Terrorists can strike without warning on areas frequented by tourists, the agency warns, and LGBTQ people have been arrested, targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses upon suspicion of their sexual identity and activity.

Sierra Leone - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of violent crime including armed robbery and assault in addition to the limited abilities of local authorities and the US government to respond. 

Angola - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the country as a whole but stresses caution in urban areas where crime and kidnapping are common. 

Benin - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department  doesn't have any alerts set for the country. 

Botswana - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Cabo Verde - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no warnings for Cabo Verde. 

Comoros - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no warnings for Comoros. 

Djibouti - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no travel warnings for Djibouti. 

Eswatini - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no warnings for Eswatini. 

Equatorial Guinea - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no travel warnings for Equatorial Guinea. 

Gabon - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department warns of a slightly increased threat of crimes such as robbery, vehicle break-ins, and home burglaries that are common in cities Libreville and Port Gentil. 

The Gambia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have a warning for the whole country but warns that landmines common to The Gambia's southern border with Senegal pose a serious danger to travelers. 

Ghana - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have a country-wide warning for Ghana, but urban areas and intercity highways are marked Level 2 for crime. Some regions are marked Level 2 for civil unrest that erupts among local leaders. 

Lesotho - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no warnings for Lesotho. 

Liberia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department warns of increased risk of violent crime in some urban areas and public beaches. 

Malawi - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no travel warnings for Malawi. 

Mauritius - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no travel warnings for Mauritius. 

Mozambique - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have any country-wide alerts set but warns of violent extremism in the northeast region, and crime in Maputo, Mozambique's capital. 

Namibia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Rwanda - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no travel warnings for Rwanda. 

Sao Tome and Principe - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have any warnings for Sao Tome and Principe. 

Tunisia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The State Department warns of a widespread threat of terrorism that could target highly frequented public places, with increased risk in some areas. 

The country's borders with Algeria and Libya and a military zone in the southwest are listed among the more restricted areas for travelers. 

Senegal - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department has no warnings for the country as a whole but specified a Level 2 warning in the Casamance region because of the threat posed to travelers by crime and landmines. 

Seychelles - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have any travel warnings for Seychelles. 

Togo - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The State Department doesn't have a warning for the entire country but warns of terrorism and kidnapping in the northern border region and other areas where civil unrest is common. 

Zambia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

• Main content

The 6 Most Dangerous Places in Africa to Visit in 2024

Planning a trip to Africa? A popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, this beautiful continent is home to many amazing regions and countries. Whether you wish to have a memorable cultural experience or enjoy white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, Africa offers something for every traveler.

However, some countries in Africa are legitimately unsafe for tourists . If you travel to the wrong place, the entire trip might turn into a stressful experience. The truth is that some of these places are considered among the most dangerous in the world. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check the travel warnings and reports from Global Peace Index (GPI) before embarking on your trip to Africa.

If you are not sure about the safety of your chosen destination, this guide to the most dangerous places in Africa might help you decide where (not) to go!

Table of Contents

Central African Republic

According to the Human Development Index , the Central African Republic is one of the most dangerous places in Africa. Things like aggravated assaults, robberies, and murder are quite common. It is also known that armed groups who control some parts of the country target civilians for kidnapping. Closing of land and air borders is frequent, which means that tourists can be left stranded without a chance to leave the country.

This African nation gained independence back in 1960. For the next 30 years, the Central African Republic was ruled by a variety of dictators. In 1993, the first multiple-party elections were held and Ange-Felix Patasse was the first democratically elected president. However, General Francois Bozize organized a coup in 2003 and took over the country. Since the beginning of the civil war in 2012, nothing much has changed in the CAR. 

The Central African Republic is actually not a poor country. It has lots of recourses like gold, uranium, cobalt, and diamonds, and crude oil. Unfortunately, it is one of the most impoverished countries on the planet. The Human Development Index also shows that the CAR is the least healthy nation in the world.

If you are planning to visit Somalia, you should know that terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, and piracy are common. High-traffic areas that tourists are likely to frequent such as hotels, seaports, government buildings, restaurants, and airports are often targeted by terrorists. Terrorists are known to plan and enact bombings and kidnappings in these areas.

Displaying cash or other valuables around is not a good idea when visiting Somalia. We should also mention that violence against women is a serious issue in the country. For example, spousal violence is legal and there are no laws against it.

Somalia was not always a dangerous place. In the late 1960s, the Somali Democratic Republic was run by the Supreme Revolutionary Council. However, the Somali Civil War in the 1980s ended the peace and caused the majority of towns to go back to traditional laws.  Today, Somalia faces ongoing armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, and a lack of state protection according to the 2020’s World Report. Free expression and media freedoms are restricted by federal and regional authorities in this African country.

South Sudan

One of the newest countries in Africa , South Sudan is a dangerous place for tourists. In 2011, South Sudan broke away from Sudan and gained its independence. Unfortunately, in the last 10 years, the country has experienced ethnic violence and civil war. Tourists are at risk of being caught in the middle of it all. Crimes like carjacking, robberies, kidnappings, and other shootings are quite common in South Sudan.

The country is especially dangerous for journalists who are often harassed. Some of them have been targeted by local armed groups and even killed in the last 10 years. According to the US State Department, foreign journalists have also been victims of rape and sexual assault in South Sudan.

In 2020, rival leaders, Riek Machar and Salva Kiir finally agreed and together formed a coalition government. Hopefully, this unity compromise will lead to less violence on the streets of South Sudan.

Democratic Republic of Congo

No list of the most dangerous places in Africa would be complete without mentioning the Democratic Republic of Congo. The biggest nation of sub-Saharan Africa, DRC is the 16th highest populated country in the world with 86 million people. The three largest cities are the capital Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbuhi-Mayi. With vast natural resources (raw minerals), the Democratic Republic of Congo is actually a rich country.

Unfortunately, most of the people living in DRC are dirt poor because of hundreds of years of colonial exploitation, poor infrastructure, corruption, military struggle, and political instability. The eastern region of Kivu is definitely the most dangerous part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Millions of people had immigrated to the neighboring states due to military struggle, brutal murders, kidnapping, and theft. To make things even worse, two million children are at risk of starvation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This short video documentary by a Croatian journalist, Hrvoje Ivancic, pretty much sums up the horrible situation in North Kivu, DRC. 

Exotic landscapes and picturesque ancient sites make Libya a beautiful country. Sadly, this Islamic nation is one of the most dangerous places in Africa because of the ongoing civil war. The talks to end the second civil war in Libya continue to this day, but not much has changed in the last few years.

Many Libyan tour companies have ceased operation and some airports in the country are closed altogether. The risk of attack on commercial transportation might be the biggest threat in this African nation.

According to the US State Department, the threat of crime and kidnapping for ransom in Libya is high, especially for Westerners and U.S. citizens. Violent extremist activity is quite common in Libya and terrorist groups are known to target tourist spots such as shopping malls, restaurants, airports, and hotels. Numerous Islamic and tribal militias cause trouble even in larger cities such as Tripoli and Surman.

With a population of about 19 million people, Mali is the eighth-biggest country in Africa. Its economy relies mostly on agriculture and mining. It is also worth mentioning that this African nation is the 3rd greatest gold producer on the continent. Mali was a relatively safe destination to visit until 2012 when rebels seized control of northern territory.

The Tuareg and various other rebel factions fought each other at the time, but the French-led Malian national forces manage to defeat them and take back the majority of the occupied northern rebel territory. However, the political instability in Mali is a serious issue to this day. According to the US State Department, western tourists should avoid travel to Mali because of armed robbery, kidnapping, and violent crime. The worst areas for these problems are the central and northern parts of Mali.

For instance, in 2017, an armed group of terrorists killed 5 people near the capital city of Bamako at a tourist resort. Another example is the hostage situation at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako when over 170 were held against their will by armed terrorists.

What is the Most Dangerous Place in Africa?

According to the Global Peace Index , the most dangerous countries in Africa in 2020 are South Sudan, Somalia, and the Central African Republic. The GPI rank is based on everything from crime statistics to the political and governmental situation in these African countries. If you wish to travel solo to these places, you should think twice before purchasing airline tickets.

So, the most dangerous country in Africa is South Sudan. It is actually one of the most dangerous destinations in the world, ranking right next to Syria and Afghanistan. The threat of armed conflicts, kidnapping, and crime in South Sudan is quite high. Due to years of civil war, many civilians have access to a bunch of weapons in the country. We should also mention that many mines can be found in rural areas. If you are planning to visit South Sudan as a journalist/reporter, you should know that journalism without permission from the local South Sudanese Media Authority is considered illegal.

Surprisingly, entering this African country is relatively easy. All you need to do is to obtain a visa and a vaccination for yellow fever which is quite common in Africa.

Where is the Safest Place in Africa?

If you are looking for the safest place in Africa, you should definitely pay a visit to Botswana. According to the GSI, Botswana is the safest nation on the continent. This landlocked country is nestled in the heart of Southern Africa and offers a wide range of cool tourist attractions.

Travelers can visit the world-famous Central Kalahari Game Reserve and see wild dogs, giraffes, cheetahs, and other animals. There is also the Okavango Delta where you will find a bunch of big cats. Other attractions in Botswana include the Tsodilo World-Heritage site, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve. We should mention that nearly 40% of the nation’s territory is taken by wildlife areas and nature parks. The tourism industry is well-organized and all guests are kept safe while enjoying their safari adventures.

The economy in Botswana is quite strong and the government is known to be politically stable. The levels of corruption are low and tourists have access to medical services. The good news is also there is no visa required to enter Botswana. However, if you are entering the nation from yellow fever endemic countries, you are required to get vaccinated. An interesting fact is that according to GPI, Botswana is actually safer than a dozen of European countries.

There is no shortage of safe destinations to visit in Africa. For instance, Ethiopia is a beautiful country that attracts many tourists seeking adventure.

Where is the Safest Place for a Solo Traveler in Africa?

If you are planning to visit Africa on your own, you will be pleased to hear that Mauritius is considered the safest country for solo travelers in Africa. Situated in the Indian Ocean, this gorgeous island nation is well-known for its picturesque beaches with turquoise waters, reefs, and lagoons.

In addition to the beaches, the country also offers a range of other attractions. Visit the cosmopolitan town of Port Louis or admire the beauty of the National Botanical Gardens and its thousands of plant varieties. 

As for the crime rate in Mauritius, it is very low. Petty theft is the only incident that can occur. Searching for similar articles? Check out our guide to the most dangerous places in Mexico .

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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8 of the Most Dangerous Countries in Africa Where You Could Travel Safely

Last Updated on 30 September 2023 by Cycloscope

How to stay safe when traveling these so-called dangerous countries of Africa Some of these places are considered among the most dangerous in the world

The whole of Africa is often perceived by the masses as a total war zone , end even where there’s no war, people are starving, living in poor hygienic conditions in shacks. Well, even the less aware traveler probably knows that’s not true.

Africa comprises 54 countries, very diverse from each other, among which you can find some very safe places (Botswana ranks as the world’s 27th safest country on the Global Peace Index ).

Anyway, 14 of the 30 most dangerous countries in the world are in Africa , among which the worsts are South Sudan (4th), Somalia (6th most dangerous in the world), Lybia (7th), Central African Republic (8th), Sudan (9th) D.R. of Congo (11th), and Nigeria (again according to the GPI).

So, what should we do? Should we mind this kind of ranking when we travel?

According to the media, we should stay home. Even our governments, on their official pages, advise not to travel to a great number of countries.

We are bombarded every day by news of wars, murders, violence. Looks like all the world is conspiring to harm us. When most of the media mention “African countries” is mostly to depict them as dangerous places.

Although it’s undeniably true that there is a lot of bad stuff going on on this planet, the world is still a fairly safe place to visit. If we take a look at the numbers , the amount of people intentionally harmed during their travels is ridiculously low.

From our personal experience, people from every country I was in, mentioned their neighboring nations as dangerous. Well, that’s the sad fruit of ignorance and sometimes racism.

12 supposedly dangerous countries in Asia you could consider for your travels The Most Dangerous Countries in North, Central and South America Dangerous European Countries, are they Safe to Travel?

Travel Insurance for Cambodia

It doesn’t matter how safe a country is, things can always happen – accidents, thefts, injuries, etc are unfortunately very common in the real world. We recommend ALWAYS getting a TRAVEL INSURANCE The most versatile and best value-for-money is undoubtedly WORLD NOMADS , have a look at their website to get a quote.

About this post

This article is a collaborative effort, a bunch of travelers share their experiences in some of the so-called most dangerous countries in Africa. Our aim is not to say there is absolutely no risk involved in traveling to those African countries, some can be dangerous indeed, and require a big dose of awareness.

Some Advice on how to stay safe when traveling

Be prudent, attentive, smart, trust your guts, don’t get drunk, don’t get high (or at least do that only if you really really trust the people you’re with and the place you’re in). Study the place you’re going to travel to, gather as much information as you can, be careful of sensitive topics, and respect local customs.

Just exerting these precautions will make you safe almost everywhere, things can happen of course, but they can happen even if you’re not traveling

12 African Countries Perceived as dangerous you could travel to

Disclosure: Some of our articles contain affiliate links. This comes at no additional cost for you and helps us keep this website up and running. (as Amazon Associates we earn commission from qualifying purchases)

Is Egypt safe for tourists?

By Margherita Ragg – The Crowded Planet  – facebook.com/TheCrowdedPlanet

Visiting Egypt was one of my dreams for a very long time, but I was always afraid to visit. Before the revolution, during the ‘golden time’ of tourism in Egypt, stories of hassle, scams, and harassment always put me off, and afterward… well, I’m sure you understand why I was afraid to visit – the media portray Egypt as a kind of war zone !

Last year my husband and I won a week in an Egyptian resort, but since we couldn’t possibly head to a country such as Egypt and not visit its history and culture, we decided to spend three weeks in total – two weeks exploring and one relaxing!

We started out with   three days in Cairo ,  and as soon as we arrived I realized there was nothing to be worried about. There are no tourists about and the locals are super friendly and welcoming – actually, the only danger is that your head will hurt from smiling too much! We didn’t even experience any of Egypt’s infamous scams.

After Cairo, we headed to Luxor and Aswan, and we loved all these places. Egypt is suffering from a dramatic decrease in tourism and since the country relies on tourism so much, they need visitors more than ever.

Now, I won’t claim that visiting Egypt is completely danger-free but I think, as long as large crowds and places of worship during prayer times are avoided, there’s really no reason to worry.

Egypt ranks 25th in the GPI index of the most dangerous countries in the world, the 10th most dangerous in Africa

Is Somaliland a dangerous place to travel?

By Monika Marcinkowska – Amused Observer  –  facebook.com/ amusedobserver.blog

People often confuse Somaliland with Somalia. While some maps and most of the countries ignore Somaliland as a country, it must be said it has been independent for over twenty years now and as a traveler you’re likely to feel safe there.

Yes, there are police stops on the way, and you might be forced to hire an armed guard when you travel by car, but still, there’s not much to be afraid of. Travelers are few and far between , so be prepared to attract curious looks and expect people come up to you and ask questions even if their language skills are limited.

Little tourism there makes it a fascinating trip for you. If you are a woman, put a scarf over your head. On the first day of our stay there, we walked with our hair uncovered and it seemed to be fine, but we’re were advised to buy scarves and it really made a difference in the way people (especially local women) treated us.

There are not many historical highlights so don’t rush to tick things off your list. Travel slowly, take your time to observe the culture and people. See the 5000 years old cave paintings of Laas Geel , walk the dusty streets of a seaside town of Berbera, enjoy the bustling markets of Hargeisa, eat delicious goat meat and drink sweet milky tea.

  Somaliland is not ranked in the GPI index of the most dangerous countries in the world, since it’s not recognized by the international community

Kenya – a focus on travelers’ safety in Nairobi

By Kate Newman – Travel For Difference  – instagram.com/ travelfordifferenceblog

Kenya is one of the best places in Africa for a safari , the beach life is great and its cities are vibing. For some though, safety concerns are a something to think about.

As I’m sure it’s well known, Nairobi , the capital city of Kenya has had a number of terror attacks over recent years – in 2013, 67 people were killed in an attack in the city’s Westgate Shopping Mall.

Since this incident, travelers have been very cautious about visiting this city for fear of a similar story. However, in September of 2017, I visited Nairobi and had an experience that completely exceeded the media’s portrayal.

Before leaving, the majority of people around me were very hesitant about my trip. They questioned why I would want to travel to such a dangerous city, and made it very clear that safety should be my number one priority. As always, I didn’t let the constant concern affect my decision , and I went there without a slither of fear.

On immediate arrival, it became very clear that everything that I had heard was completely skewed. I had imagined a place that would make me feel uncomfortable; with overcrowded streets, creepy people, and dirty, dreary surroundings.

What I discovered, was that the driving was better than that here in Australia, the people were friendly and welcoming, and the city was much nicer than I had imagined.

After talking to Nairobi locals, it became very obvious that the city is much safer than what is presumed. Protests are quite frequent and theft does occur, but none of this is ever targeted towards tourists . Safety and security measures in hotels and major attractions are the best of standards!

It’s a developing country… Bad things do occur and it would be ignorant to assume otherwise. But to let the fear of terrorism overrule your desire to visit this country is totally unnecessary. I had an incredible, safe, beautiful holiday here; and as long as you stay aware of your surroundings (as you should in every country) I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time too!

  Kenya ranks 39th in the GPI index of the most dangerous countries in the world

Should you visit Tunisia?

By Chris Backe from One Weird Globe –  instagram. com/againstthecompass

Tunisia suffered at the hands of terrorists in 2015 – a couple of incidents have done well at scaring mainstream/group tourists away. That’s a shame – and also an opportunity for independent tourists to set their own course around this amazing country. You can never completely eliminate risk while traveling, but the generally peaceful scene on the ground rarely garners headlines.

The southern parts of the country should be considered off-limits – specifically around the towns of Nefta, Douz, Medenine, and Zarzis. Anywhere closer to the border with Algeria and the Mount Chaambi National Park should be considered no-go areas.

If you’re seeing the country behind Tunis (the capital city) the seven-day  Carte Bleue  rail pass is a great deal. Expect to need a small square passport photo, though it’s not a hard-and-fast requirement. Note there’s a small surcharge for tickets to (supposedly) pay for air-conditioning above and beyond the rail pass.

While typical Western clothes are pretty common in Tunis, you’ll note people dress more conservatively the further south you go . While you’re in Tunisia, cover your knees and shoulders and you’ll be fine.

Where to go? Check out this exquisite Roman coliseum with very few tourists  and the El Jem Archeological Museum — a great collection of old-school mosaics.

Carthage is a great little day trip from Tunis.

A couple of quick pro-tips:

Tunisian currency is non-convertible, meaning it can’t enter or exit the country. Some small bills as souvenirs are fine, but exchange your dinars before leaving.

Tunisia is considered pretty safe according to the GPI index, ranking 95th most dangerous. Safer than Greece, USA, and Peru

 Nigeria

Is really Nigeria so dangerous for travelers?

By Last Kodiak

Traveling in Nigeria is not as dangerous as some people make it out to be . You might not be on the farm in Kansas anymore but it is not a complete war zone, either.

The key to moving around the country is to know where you are and what regions are no-go areas . Environmental awareness is critical when in developing parts of the world.

If you are traveling in the southern part of Nigeria, you will have no problem anywhere you are. The people are friendly and crime is just like anywhere else. I would say that standard safety precautions would apply. Make sure to not show money, pricey gadgets, etc.

If you are thinking of going north, you would need to start to consider the current conditions. A good place to start for that would be the travel advisory of the State Department. As much as travelers hate to admit, those advisories are right more than we wish they were.

Nigeria is the 15th most dangerous country in the world according to the GPI, and the 7th less safe in Africa

 Rwanda

How safe is to travel in rwanda now.

By Patrick Horsfield –  Adventographer.com  –  instagram.com/adventographer

This central African country is likely a place you associate with violence rather than somewhere you’d consider traveling to. The genocide of 1994 remains a fresh scar on this otherwise lush & vibrant country.

A visit to “The land of 1000 hills” is an eye-opening experience as travelers discover today’s Rwanda, a peaceful land of friendly but remorseful people who are highly optimistic about their country’s future.

A vibrant capital city, Kigali, still self-consciously shows the scars of war while reinventing itself as a place full of art, culture, nightlife and a leader of Africa’s digital revolution . The Rwandan Genocide museum and memorial ensures the events of the past stay fresh in the mind of residents who never want a repeat.

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The country is one of the cleanest I’ve ever visited (that’s 49 and counting). Thanks in part to innovative initiatives that have every resident (including the president) participate in “Umuganda” a monthly day of community service, through which neighborhoods are improved & schools, hospitals, and low-cost housing have been developed.

Containing the largest rainforest in Africa and Volcanoes playing host to over a third of the world’s dwindling Silverback Gorillas the countryside of Rwanda is the real draw to a traveler.

Tourism is slowly becoming a staple of the economy and every major service is available to a traveler. Trekking through the jungles and up the Virunga Volcanoes to visit the Silverback Mountain Gorillas is a life-changing experience highlight of the country no visitor should miss!

Nigeria is the 51st most dangerous country in the world according to the GPI, one spot safer than the USA

South Africa

How dangerous is South Africa for tourists?

By Alya Akhmetgareeva – Stingy Nomads

South Africa is one of the most visited African countries with 9,5 million international tourists coming here every year. Though tourism could have a bigger impact on its economy if the crime situation improved. We know many people who absolutely loved South Africa, it is one of their favorite countries and they never had any safety issues here.

Why come to South Africa?

• 1st, to see its incredible wildlife and its not only well-known Kruger National park, but there are also many unspoiled and wilder places in the country like Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park on the border with Namibia and Botswana.
• 2nd, the diversity of this country, here you can see deserted arid areas of the North West, humid and tropical South East, dry and mountainous South West. /li>
• 3rd, the South African correlation of service vs price is great in the hospitality and restaurant industry.
• 4th, South Africa is one of the easiest African countries to travel to, here you get a mix of the infrastructure of a developed country with the African wilderness.

The main problem in South Africa is crime . We won’t say it’s a myth this problem exists especially in big cities. Our advice to stay safe is: don’t walk late at night with your camera, money, backpack, etc. Always lock your car doors when driving and don’t open them for anybody you don’t know. When going for a walk in a city, lock your passport, credit cards, money, etc. in a hotel safe, take only necessary. Don’t leave anything in your car when parking outside not even a jacket or a book.

But South Africa is more about nature than cities, most tourists come here to see its amazing wildlife. Luckily the countryside and small towns are much safer here taking normal precautions like not leaving your valuables unattended, will be enough to keep you safe.  

South Africa ranks 41st in the world’s most dangerous country index (GPI)

Bilyana Petrova – Owl Over The World –  Facebook.com/owlovertheworld

When I decided to visit Morocco, lots of people around me (especially my mom) got nervous and worried because Morocco has this reputation of being a dangerous place. However, this is not the actual reality and my  3 weeks Morocco trip  was an awesome experience and I didn’t feel unsafe at all.

Yes,  there are lots of scams and people that will try to rip you off, but if you are well prepared for what to expect, you won’t get into these traps.

Generally, Morocco is a fascinating and beautiful country that has a lot to offer. Moroccan people and Berbers (except for the traders and liars) are super friendly and sweet people and you will see this if you give them a chance to get to know them.

I believe that most people have a very wrong impression of Morocco.  Anyway, if you use common sense, dress appropriately, and respect them, their religion, and their traditions, you’ll be absolutely fine.

Morocco ranks 89st in the world’s most dangerous country index, pretty safe even according to the GPI

By The World Pursuit

Mozambique is one of my favorite countries in all of Africa. However, before I went I was a bit nervous as I had heard that it was unsafe.

First  – Mozambique is a beautiful country, with bright blue and turquoise water and white sand beaches . The people are friendly and warm despite being among some of the poorest in the world. Mozambique also has some amazing cuisine. You can find crab curry, coconuts, and cooked shrimp for an incredibly affordable price.

Mozambique gets a bad rap for its ever prevalent police corruption, as well as Renamo (Mozambican National Resistance political party) in the north. It also has the whole Africa thing going for it that many are nervous about and is still recovering from the Mozambique war in the early 1920s.

All of this is somewhat justified and can be a genuine concern when  visiting Mozambique . By staying smart and vigilant you can avoid most dangers and have a wonderful time.

Before we went we researched online about the dangers . We stayed away from a few areas in the north where Renamo still has a stronghold. We never drove at night and locked up all of our possessions when we left the car. We never had a single issue in three weeks and would go back in a heartbeat!

Mozambique is a fairly safe place to visit also according to the GPI. It ranks 86th among 163 countries, pretty average

Check Also > Cycling Mozambique – Our Guide and Road Trip Itinerary > Praia do Bilene, Mozambique – Things to do in Bilene Beach and Uembje Lagoon

Worldly | What are the safest and most dangerous countries in Africa?

Africa is a fantastic travel destination with many unique spots, ancient culture and beautiful natural areas. Africa has many faces. Yet there are many world travelers that this special continent leave it to the left. Because, they say, there is war in many countries, terrorist organizations are everywhere and the chance of robberies is too great. Perhaps understandable after all the negative news stories that continue to haunt Africa. However, this image is not always correct. In many African countries you can experience the most beautiful holidays, as long as you know where to be. So do you want to go to Africa but don't know where to go? We remove all doubt and present the top 3 safest and most dangerous countries in Africa.

Also read: Which are the safest and most dangerous countries in Central America? Also read: Which are the safest and most dangerous countries in Europe? Also read: Which are the safest and most dangerous countries in Africa?

Table of contents

Top 3 safe countries in Africa

Located in southeastern Africa Malawi † It is one of the safest countries in Africa with about 13 million inhabitants. Malawi is surrounded by Zambia , Tanzania en Mozambique and is the ideal place for a very relaxed and relaxing holiday. Lake Malawi is the great beating heart of the country. It is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. A boat trip on the rippling water is therefore an absolute must. Around the lake you will find green hilly areas.

Also read: How many countries does Africa have? List of countries + number of inhabitants

Of course you can also visit various national parks. For example, travel to Nyika National Park and look for the magical Big Five. It is best to rest in one of the coastal towns along the lake such as Nkhata Bay. Cocktail in hand, a blazing sun in the blue sky and a beautiful environment to marvel at. Malawi shows you how peaceful, safe and carefree Africa can be!

In the Indian Ocean lies the beautiful and safe African island Mauritius † About 850 km east of Madagascar and 1800 km from the mainland. This island has only 1,3 million inhabitants. No African chaos here or overwhelming crowds, but calming beaches and a special underwater world. You can dive here like no other and – if it's your thing – the golf courses on this island are worldly. Mauritius has a few islands, such as the eponymous Mauritius, Rodrigues, the Agalega Islands and the Cargados Carajos. All African beauties. The capital is Port Louis, a reference to the French king Louis XV. In Mauritius you are in the right place if you come for a relaxing holiday with amazing views over the endless waters of the Indian Ocean.

Namibia is perhaps the great unknown in this top 3 safest countries in Africa. This country, which lies on the southwestern side of the continent, has unimaginably beautiful scenery and an authentic African environment. Namibia remains far away from all unrest and has been offering travelers a wonderful place to travel and relax for years.

Visit the thousands of seals at Cape Cross or be intoxicated by the deserted landscapes at Damaraland. The Kaokoveld in the northwest is also a beautiful nature reserve that shows Africa in all its beauty. Fish River Canyon is the second longest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. And so Namibia has more surprises in store for the adventurous world traveler. Time to find out what those are!

Also read: Itinerary Namibia in 2, 3, 4 or 5 weeks | Must sees and example routes

Top 3 dangerous countries in Africa

Central-african republic.

In the middle of the gigantic continent lies the Central-African Republic † If you don't want to be anywhere right now, it's in this country bordering Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, Congo-Kinshasa, Congo-Brazzaville and Cameroon. In the Republic, an apparently insoluble conflict has been raging for years, which is fought to the bone by the many ethnic and religious groups.

In 2021 it is still seen as one of the most dangerous countries in Africa. The violence used here is simply horrific. The population is ravaged by armed militias and extremely violent rebels. Hundreds of thousands of refugees daily look for a way out in this traumatized country.

Even emergency aid does not reach the Central African Republic, according to the Parool earlier this year. You only want to go here if you think you can offer help through one of the many human rights organizations, even if even providing help in 2021 seems an impossible task.

Also in Mali the situation is very threatening and life-threatening. The country has been high on the list of most dangerous countries in Africa for years. Not only is war raging here continuously and many jihadists threaten violence and terror, the life-threatening Ebola disease is also present here. Mali is located south of the Sahara in northern Africa and is one of the poorest countries in the world. Tensions have been running high for years, as has the blistering temperature.

There are indeed Dutch people here, but they are not here to enjoy a well-deserved holiday. The Dutch in Mali are among the deployed soldiers who are part of the UN mission in this country. The civil war, terrorism, appalling conditions, the many refugees and the risk of Ebola infection are all reasons to skip this country when looking for a suitable travel destination.

Somalia has been at the top of the list of most dangerous countries in Africa for years. The poverty and the many rebel groups create unimaginably sad situations here every day. Everyone now knows the images of thousands and thousands of people trying to flee the country. Somalia is located in the Horn of Africa on the eastern side of Africa and borders Djibouti, Ethiopia en Kenya † The capital is Mogadishu.

The famine has been causing dire situations in Somalia for years. The many civil wars have also left the helpless country in a serious crisis. An end to the many conflicts seems an unimaginable scenario for the time being. Traveling here is absolutely not recommended at the moment and probably in the coming years.

Of course there are a lot of other African countries where you should or absolutely should not want to go. Do you know where you can or cannot travel to? The website of the central government always offers up-to-date travel advice for all countries in the world. Learn more about the world † Then take a look at our worldly page. See you there!

Check your vaccinations

We also strongly advise anyone who travels to a country or area where Malaria or another annoying disease may prevent that you should not jump to conclusions from this or other articles.  Always make an appointment  with one of the specialists at Vaccinations While Traveling or the GGD. The information they have is always up-to-date and that is why they can advise you specifically based on the specific travel plans you have.

We can also absolutely recommend taking the 'optional' one, since you don't want to be tied to certain places or countries during your world trip. It often happens that your plans change along the way, and for that you definitely want to be well prepared in terms of vaccinations.

Vaccinations while traveling is the specialist for travel vaccinations and vaccinations in the Netherlands. The specialized vaccination nurses and doctors advise and vaccinate more than 35.000 travelers every year.

Obtained vaccinations can be put in an official vaccination passport (yellow booklet).

In most cases, the vaccinations can be reimbursed via the health insurance - contact your health insurer for this.

• Often fully reimbursed
• Evenings and weekends
• Yellow booklet / passport
• Locations throughout the Netherlands

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2020 Travel Warnings for Countries in Africa

Gideon Mendel/Getty Images

While  staying safe in Africa is usually a matter of common sense, there are some regions or countries that are legitimately unsafe for tourists. If you're in the process of planning a trip to Africa and aren't sure about the safety of your chosen destination, it's a good idea to check the travel warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State. 

What Are Travel Warnings?

Travel warnings or advisories are issued by the government in an attempt to forewarn U.S. citizens about the dangers of traveling to a specific area or country. They are based on expert evaluations of the country's current political and social situation. Often, travel warnings are issued as a response to immediate crises such as civil war, terrorist attacks, or political coups. They can also be issued due to ongoing social unrest or aggravated crime rates; and sometimes reflect health concerns (such as the West Africa ebola epidemic of 2014). 

Currently, travel advisories are ranked on a scale of 1 to 4. Level 1 is "exercise normal precautions", which essentially means that there are no special safety concerns at present. Level 2 is "exercise increased caution", which means that there is some risk in certain areas, but you should still be able to travel safely as long as you're aware of the risk and act accordingly. Level 3 is "reconsider travel", which means that all but essential travel is not recommended. Level 4 is "do not travel", which means that the current situation is too dangerous for tourists. 

For more information about the circumstances that inspire individual travel warnings, consider checking the advisories issued by other governments as well, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. 

Current US Travel Advisories for African Countries

Below, we have given an overview of the travel advisories for all African countries with a Level 2 ranking or higher.

Disclaimer: Please note that travel warnings change all the time and while this article is updated regularly, it's best to check the U.S. Department of State website directly before booking your trip. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to terrorism. Terrorist attacks may take place without warning, and are considered more likely in rural areas. The warning particularly advises against travel to rural areas within 50 kilometers of the Tunisian border, or within 250 kilometers of the borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania. Overland travel in the Sahara Desert is also not recommended. 

Burkina Faso

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime, kidnapping, and terrorism. Violent crime is widespread, particularly in urban areas, and often targets foreign nationals. Terrorist attacks have taken place and could occur again at any time. The advisory increases the ranking to a Level 4 for several parts of the country, including Arrondissement 11 in Ouagadougou; and 11 regions including the Sahel, Cascades, and Boucle du Mouhoun areas.

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime and political violence. Violent crimes, including grenade attacks, are common. Sporadic violence occurs as a result of ongoing political tension, while police and military checkpoints can restrict freedom of movement. In particular, cross-border raids by armed groups from the DRC are common in the provinces of Cibitoke and Bubanza. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime. Violent crime is a problem throughout Cameroon, although some areas are worse than others. Particularly, the government advises against all travel to the North, Far North, Northwest, and Southwest regions and parts of the East and Adamawa regions. In some of these areas, the chance of terrorism and armed conflict is also heightened. 

Central African Republic

Level 4 travel advisory issued due to crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Armed robberies, murders, and aggravated assaults are common, while armed groups control large areas of the country and often target civilians for kidnappings and killings. Sudden closures of air and land borders in the event of civil unrest mean that tourists are likely to be stranded if trouble arises. 

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, and minefields. There has been an increase in reported violent crimes since 2018, while terrorist groups move easily in and out of the country and are especially active in the Lake Chad region. Borders may close without warning, leaving tourists stranded. Minefields exist along the borders with Libya and Sudan. 

Côte d'Ivoire

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime and terrorism. Terrorist attacks may occur at any time and are likely to target tourist areas, especially in the northern border region. Violent crimes (including carjackings, home invasions, and armed robberies) are common, while U.S. government officials are prohibited from driving outside major cities after dark and can therefore provide limited assistance. 

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime and civil unrest. There is a high level of violent crime, while political demonstrations are volatile and often illicit an extreme response from law enforcement. The eastern Congo and the three Kasai provinces are given a Level 4 ranking due to ongoing armed conflict. North Kivu and Ituri provinces are also Level 4 due to crime, Ebola, and kidnappings.

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to terrorism. Terrorist groups continue to target tourist locations, government facilities, and transportation hubs, while civil aviation is considered to be at risk. Many of the country's main tourist areas are relatively safe, however. Meanwhile, travel to the Western Desert, the Sinai Peninsula (except Sharm el-Sheikh), and the border areas is not recommended. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to travel restrictions, limited consular assistance, and landmines. If you are arrested in Eritrea, it is likely that access to U.S. Embassy assistance will be withheld by local law enforcement. Landmines are a risk in many remote and/or rural areas of the country, including (but not limited to) Nakfa, AdiKeih, and Arezza. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to the potential for civil unrest and communications disruptions. Travel to the Somalian border area is not advised due to the potential for kidnapping, terrorism, and landmines. Armed conflict and/or civil unrest are also considered likely in areas such as the East Hararge region of Oromia state, and the borders with Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Eritrea. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to civil unrest. Political demonstrations occur frequently and are often unpredictable. In the past, some have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, while protestors are likely to target drivers who attempt to pass through or around protest action. Opportunistic thieves may target those who become trapped in the congestion caused by demonstrations.

Guinea-Bissau

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime and civil unrest. Violent crime is a problem throughout Guinea-Bissau but especially at the Bissau airport and at Bandim Market in the center of the capital. Political unrest and social dysfunction have been ongoing for decades, and conflict between factions can cause violence to erupt at any time. There is no U.S. Embassy in Guinea-Bissau. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Violent crime is a problem throughout Kenya, and tourists are warned to avoid the Eastleigh and Kibera areas of Nairobi at all times, and to exercise caution whenever traveling after dark. The Kenya-Somalia border, some coastal areas, and parts of Turkana County are ranked Level 4 due to the risk of terrorism.

Level 4 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping, and civil unrest. The chances of getting caught up in violent extremist activity are high, while terrorist groups are likely to target foreign nationals (and U.S. citizens in particular). Civil aviation is at risk from terrorist attack, and flights in and out of Libyan airports are regularly canceled, leaving tourists stranded. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to civil unrest. In recent months, scheduled political demonstrations have occurred in urban areas across the country. Vandalism and looting often accompany these protests, and police officers have been known to respond with violent methods including the deployment of tear gas.

Level 4 travel advisory issued due to crime and terrorism. Violent crime is common throughout the country but especially in Bamako and the southern regions of Mali. Roadblocks and random police checks allow corrupt police officers to take advantage of tourists traveling on the roads, especially at night. Terrorist attacks continue to target places frequented by foreigners. 

Mauritania  

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime and terrorism. Terrorist attacks may occur without warning and are likely to target areas frequented by Western tourists. Violent crimes (including robberies, rapes, assaults, and muggings) are common, while U.S. government officials must obtain special permission to travel outside of Nouakchott and can therefore provide limited assistance in case of emergency. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to terrorism. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks in Morocco and may target tourist destinations and attractions as well as public transport hubs. These attacks are unpredictable and may occur with little or no warning. Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations and crowds where possible.

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Violent crimes are common, while terrorist attacks and kidnappings target foreign and local government facilities and areas frequented by tourists. In particular, avoid travel to the border regions; especially the Diffa region, the Lake Chad region, and the Malian border, where extremist groups are known to operate. 

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and piracy. Violent crimes are common in Nigeria, while terrorist attacks are particularly prevalent in the northeast. The states of Borno, Yobe, and northern Adamwa are ranked Level 4 due to the threat of terrorism. Piracy is a concern for travelers to the Gulf of Guinea, which should be avoided. 

Republic of the Congo

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime and civil unrest. Violent crime is a concern throughout the Republic of the Congo, while political demonstrations occur frequently and often turn violent. Tourists are advised to reconsider travel to the southern and western districts of the Pool Region, where ongoing military operations result in a higher risk of civil unrest and armed conflict. 

Sierra Leone

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime. Violent crimes including assault and robbery are common, while local police are rarely able to respond to incidents effectively. U.S. government employees are banned from traveling outside Freetown after dark, and can therefore only offer limited assistance to any tourists that find themselves in trouble. 

Level 4 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and piracy. Violent crimes are common throughout, with frequent illegal roadblocks and a high incidence of kidnappings and murders. Terrorist attacks target Western tourists, and are likely to occur without warning. Piracy is rife in the international waters off the Horn of Africa, especially near the Somalian coast. 

South Africa

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime, civil unrest, and drought. Violent crimes including armed robbery, rape, and smash-and-grab attacks on vehicles are common in South Africa, especially in the CBDs of major cities after dark. Political protests occur frequently and can turn violent. The Western, Eastern, and Northern Cape provinces are experiencing a severe drought and water restrictions may apply.

South Sudan

Level 4 travel advisory issued due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Armed conflict is ongoing between various political and ethnic groups, while violent crime is common. The crime rates in Juba especially are critical, with U.S. government officials usually only permitted to travel in armored vehicles. Restrictions on official travel outside Juba mean that tourists cannot rely on assistance in an emergency. 

Level 3 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Members of known terrorist groups reside in Sudan and are likely to target Westerners. Violence is common along the borders with Chad and South Sudan, while armed opposition groups are active in the Central Darfur, Blue Nile, and South Kordofan states.

Tanzania  

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime, terrorism, health issues, and the targeting of LGBTI travelers. Violent crime is common in Tanzania, and includes sexual assault, kidnapping, mugging, and carjacking. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks on areas frequented by Western tourists. In September 2019, unofficial reports were made regarding a case of Ebola in Dar es Salaam.

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to terrorism. Certain areas are considered more at risk of attack than others. The government advises against travel to Sidi Bou Zid, the desert south of Remada, areas of the Algerian border and the mountainous areas in the northwest (including Chaambi Mountain National Park). Travel within 30 kilometers of the Libyan border is also not recommended.

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime and kidnapping. Although many areas of Uganda are considered relatively safe, there is a high incidence of violent crimes (including armed robberies, home invasions, and sexual assaults) in the country's larger cities. Tourists are advised to take particular care in Kampala and Entebbe. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively in an emergency. 

Level 2 travel advisory issued due to crime and civil unrest. Political instability, economic hardship, and the effects of recent drought have led to civil unrest, which may present itself through violent demonstrations. Violent crime is common and prevalent in areas frequented by Western tourists. Visitors are advised not to display evident signs of wealth. 

Level 1 Countries With Higher Risk Areas

The following countries have been given an overall Level 1 ranking, but include areas with a higher risk of danger: Angola, Benin, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, and Togo. Please check the Department of State website for specific details.

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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?

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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

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Terrorist attacks and political instability are the main contributors to peace deterioration in African nations. Civil unrest and conflicts experienced over the years have been caused by multiple coup d'états, election results, ethnic-related disputes, and corruption allegations. Find out the most dangerous countries in Africa for travel in 2024.

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This list of the most dangerous countries in Africa for travel in 2024 is based on the Global Peace Index (GPI) prepared by the Institute for Economics & Peace. The results are based on the level of societal safety and security , the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflict, and the degree of militarisation a country has.

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Most dangerous countries in Africa for travel: top 15 list

The more a country is considered unsafe in general, the more it negatively affects tourism. Here is a look at the countries that are considered the most dangerous in Africa for travel.

• GP Index: 2.47
• Global peace ranking: 131

Since 2015, political terror in Burundi has led to peace and economic deterioration. The instability started when the late Pierre Nkurunziza vied for a third term against the constitutional limit of two terms.

Over 1700 people have since lost their lives, and more than 400,000 have been displaced, with more than 300,000 fleeing the country. Burundi is currently one of Africa's most dangerous countries and the poorest country in the world , with a GNI per capita of $270.

• GP Index: 2.494
• Global peace ranking: 132

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Eritrea is a one-party state ruled by President Isaias Afewerki, and elections have never been held since the nation gained independence in 1993.

Freedom of religion and expression is suppressed in Eritrea . Young people are forced into the military with low pay, and conscientious objection is punished. The human rights crisis, which has driven thousands of youths and children into exile, poses a conflict risk in the region.

• GP Index: 2.591
• Global peace ranking: 136

Chad has had several coup d'état attempts in the past two decades. The late Idriss Deby took over power in 1990 through a coup. After his sudden death on the battlefield in April 2021, his son, General Mahamat Deby, took over power in a coup that was defended by Chad's key allies. Chad remains one of the unsafest countries in Africa.

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• GP Index: 2.655
• Global peace ranking: 140

Boko Haram and Islamist armed groups attacks (also called the Insurgence in the Maghreb) in western Niger have left hundreds dead and thousands forced to flee their homes. Jihadist attacks against unarmed civilians pose a major threat to the country's security.

• GP Index: 2.709
• Global peace ranking: 142

Cameroon's conflict continues to escalate as separatists in the self-declared Republic of Ambozia in the Northwest and Southwest Anglophone territories continue to wage war against the Cameroon Armed Forces.

The war in Cameroon has left thousands of Cameroonians dead, and millions have fled from their homes. Mediation talks by the international community have failed since the war broke out in 2017.

• GP Index: 2.725
• Global peace ranking: 143

A ranking of the safest to most dangerous African countries reveals that Nigeria is tenth on the list of the most dangerous countries. Its mounting insecurity in recent years has been caused by increasing banditry activities in the northwest and the rise of Jihadist groups, including Boko Haram.

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The Igbo secessionists in the southeast have also been working with Cameroon separatists, fighting for an independent state. The situation is further worsened by the violent conflicts between pastoralists and farmers and the rise of the #EndSARS movement .

• GP Index: 2.786
• Global peace ranking: 146

Burkina Faso fell 12 positions on the 2022 global peace rank. The country had two coups in 2022, one in January and the second in September, contributing significantly to the region's peace deterioration. According to the 2022 Global Terrorism Index, Burkina Faso recorded the second-highest number of deaths from terrorist attacks globally.

• GP Index: 2.806
• Global peace ranking: 149

Ethiopia's northern region of Tigray has been at the centre of a fierce civil war involving the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the Ethiopian government.

The conflict in Ethiopia began when the TPLF rule in the Tigray province was declared illegal in 2018 after Abiy Ahmed became Ethiopia's leader . Since the outbreak of the civil war, the organisation has been labelled a terrorist organisation.

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• GP Index: 2.911
• Global peace ranking: 150

Mali is one of the most unsafe countries in Africa due to high political unrest and insecurities. The West African nation recently had two coups within nine months, one in August 2020. The other coup in Mali happened in May 2021.

• GP Index: 2.93
• Global peace ranking: 151

Libya improved by 5% on the 2022 global peace rank but is still one of the most dangerous places to visit. The North African nation's humanitarian crisis started in 2011 during the NATO-backed Arab Spring protests that led to a civil war and the death of Muammar Gaddafi.

Democratic presidential elections have been postponed twice, in December 2018 and December 2021. The unrest and tension in Libya continue because the country is divided by two rival administrations.

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• GP Index: 3.007
• Global peace ranking: 154

Sudan's peace has been marred by several coup attempts and political unrest. In April 2019, Omar al-Bashir was overthrown by the Sudanese military. In October 2021, the Sudanese military led another coup to overthrow the transitional government, which derailed plans to transfer power to civilian rule. Sudan is one of the countries with the highest crime rates.

• GP Index: 3.021
• Global peace ranking: 155

The ongoing Central African Republic Civil War has displaced over 20% of the population. The country's relative economic cost of violence was 37% of the GDP in 2021, making it one of the worst places in Africa to live. The violent chaos has been caused by armed conflicts between rebel groups since 2012.

• GP Index: 3.125
• Global peace ranking: 156

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Somalia is among the top 20 most dangerous countries in Africa. This is due to prolonged political instability and terrorism that has negatively affected the nation's peace for close to three decades. Alshabaab, which is closely linked to the Al-Qaeda and ISIS extremist groups, has dominated Somalia for a long time. Over 20% of the country's population is internally displaced.

• GP Index: 3.166
• Global peace ranking: 158

The ongoing armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo has caused instability, making it one of the top 10 most dangerous countries in Africa. Over 4.5 million citizens in this mineral-rich country have been displaced, and more than 800,000 refugees fled to other countries.

The Congolese government has unsuccessfully tried to end the armed groups' violence, which started after the 1994 Rwanda genocide. Various international and regional peacekeeping organisations have tried to intervene.

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• GP Index: 3.184
• Global peace ranking: 159

South Sudan is among the most dangerous countries in the world. It is considered the most dangerous country in Africa even though its security situation has improved in recent times.

Internal conflict in South Sudan has torn the nation apart, and about 35% of the population is displaced. Its relative economic cost of violence was 41% of the GDP in 2021, making it the second most dangerous country globally.

Afghanistan is the most dangerous country in the world, according to the 2022 Global Peace Index. The South Asian country has held this position for the last five years. It has continued to experience war since 2001.

The most dangerous countries globally are Afghanistan, Ukraine , South Sudan, Syria, Somalia, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

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The most dangerous countries in Asia are Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Pakistan, North Korea, Myanmar, the Philippines, Bangladesh, and Thailand.

According to World Population Review , South Africa has the highest crime rate on the continent in 2023. The country records 76.86 crimes per 100,000 people.

The safest countries in Africa are Mauritius, Ghana, The Gambia, Botswana, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Equatorial Guinea, Malawi, Namibia, and Senegal.

Burundi is the poorest country not only in Africa but also in the world, with Somalia close behind. This is according to the World Population Review .

Mauritius is Africa's safest country as of 2024.

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The African countries with the strongest economies are Tunisia, Libya, and Morocco.

The most dangerous countries in Africa to travel to have high levels of societal safety and security. They experience domestic and international conflict and have a high degree of militarisation.

Tuko.co.ke recently published a list of the safest neighborhoods in Queens , New York, to live. Queens is one of the five boroughs of New York City.

It offers a vibrant and diverse atmosphere with a mix of residential areas, commercial districts and green spaces. Safety is usually the top priority for people settling in a new place. Find out the safest neighborhoods in Queens by reading this post.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Ryan Mutuku (Lifestyle writer) Ryan Mutuku is an editor with over 4 years of working in digital media for Tuko.co.ke, Yen.com.gh, and iWriter. He is an alumnus of the Faculty of Media and Communications at Multimedia University (2019). Ryan mostly focuses on the entertainment and technology niches. He won the Best Writer award in 2022 (Tuko.co.ke). In 2023, Ryan finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Email: [email protected]

Vivian Mutsoli (Lifestyle writer) Vivian Mutsoli is an experienced writer with over four years on TUKO.co.ke. She has also worked on LEGIT.ng and written articles on various trending topics like celebrities, IT, academic institutions, and more. She is a holder of a Bachelor of Commerce (Procurement and Supply Chain Management) from the University of Nairobi class of 2020. In 2023, Vivian finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Email address: [email protected]

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Ranked: most dangerous countries in the world 2024

The most dangerous countries in the world to visit in 2024 have been updated in the latest Travel Risk Map

The most dangerous countries to visit in 2024 are Afghanistan, the Central African Republic , Iraq, Libya, Mali , Somalia, South Sudan, Syria , Ukraine and Yemen according to the latest Travel Risk Map , an interactive tool produced by security specialists at  International SOS .

The map is used to predict the safest and, conversely, the least safe countries in the world to visit and has four layers in total covering a country’s security risk, medical risk, and the impact of the pandemic on travel and domestic operations.

• Most dangerous countries in the world

Spotlight on: Central African Republic

• Safest countries in the world

Complete rankings

For the security layer of the map, countries are indexed according to their travel security risk rating, which uses five risk definitions : insignificant, low, medium, high and extreme.

International SOS uses several criteria to assess how the conditions in the country may impact visitors’ safety and security.

These include the threat posed to travellers by political violence (including terrorism, insurgency, politically motivated unrest and war), social unrest (including sectarian, communal and ethnic violence) and violent and petty crime.

Other factors assessed include transport infrastructure, the capability of security and emergency services, and the threat of natural disasters. It’s also possible to use the map to assess medical risk and road safety standards around the world.

MOST DANGEROUS COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD

These are the nine most dangerous countries in the world according to International SOS. They have been assessed as carrying an ‘extreme travel security risk’.

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• South Sudan

The most dangerous countries in the world include Ukraine, where Russia launched an invasion in February 2022; Afghanistan, which saw the Taliban take over in August 2021 as foreign forces pulled out of the country; Syria, which has been embroiled in civil war since 2011; and Yemen, which has also been mired in a years-long civil war leading to the deaths of thousands and a major humanitarian crisis .

Despite ongoing instability in Mali – which saw the UNESCO-listed historic city of Timbuktu taken under siege by jihadists in September 2023 – the West African nation has been reassessed as ‘high security risk’ as opposed to ‘extreme’.

“Government control and law and order may be minimal or non-existent across large areas. Serious threat of violent attacks by armed groups targeting travellers and international assignees. Government and transport services are barely functional. Large parts of the country are inaccessible to foreigners.” International SOS

In October 2023, Israel launched an invasion of the Gaza Strip in Palestine after a surprise Hamas attack on southern Israel led to the death of 1,200 people and 240 hostages. As of 16 February 2024, the retaliatory campaign has killed over 28,000 Palestinians. To date, International SOS has not updated the map to reflect this.

The Central African Republic (CAR) boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It was once a premier destination for encounters with large forest elephants and western lowland gorillas. It’s also been claimed to be one of the world’s best places in the world to see butterflies.

Unfortunately, since CAR gained independence in 1960, the country has experienced decades of conflict and instability, including six coups. Since 2012, political turmoil and a religiously fueled civil war have made the country completely unsafe for travellers with all Western governments advising against visits due to safety concerns.

Despite President Faustin Archange Touadéra’s unilateral ceasefire declaration in October 2021, ongoing conflicts in CAR continued to severely impact civilians throughout 2022 and 2023. Intense clashes between the national army, Russian mercenaries , Rwandan forces and elements of the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) have resulted in significant ongoing violence with dozens of civilians killed in several attacks.

CAR is experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis. Over one million people have been displaced by violence and an estimated 5.6% of the population died in 2022 – a mortality rate twice as high as any other country. By June 2023, 3.4 million people needed assistance with the situation exacerbated by flooding that affected over 100,000 individuals.

SAFEST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD

At the other end of the spectrum, the following 18 countries or territories have been assessed as carrying an ‘insignificant travel security risk’ to travellers and therefore the safest countries to visit.

• American Samoa
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Switzerland

“Rates of violent crime are very low. There is no significant political violence or civil unrest and little sectarian, communal, racial or targeted violence against foreigners. Security and emergency services are effective and infrastructure is sound. Transport services are of a high standard with good safety records and only occasional travel disruption. Industrial action affecting essential services is rare.” International SOS

Most countries in Europe along with the USA , Australia , New Zealand and Canada  have been assessed as carrying a ‘low travel security risk’. Ukraine is the only European country categorised as a ‘high’ or ‘extreme’ security risk.

Many countries in Asia and the Middle East including Jordan , Oman , Singapore, Japan , China , South Korea , Vietnam , Malaysia and Brunei are considered ‘low risk’.

The most dangerous countries in Asia are Afghanistan and Pakistan ; and Syria, Iraq and Yemen in the Middle East.

The most dangerous countries in Africa are the Central African Republic, Libya, Somalia and South Sudan. In the Americas, Haiti , Honduras and Venezuela are considered ‘high security risk’.

EXTREME (15) Afghanistan Central African Republic Iraq Libya Somalia South Sudan Syria Ukraine Yemen

HIGH (14) Burkina Faso DR Congo Ethiopia Haiti Honduras Mali Myanmar Nigeria Pakistan Papua New Guinea Venezuela

MEDIUM (70) Algeria Angola Bahrain Bangladesh Belize Bolivia Brazil Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Chad Colombia Comoros Congo Djibouti Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Eritrea Fiji Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana India Indonesia Iran Israel Ivory Coast Jamaica Kazakhstan Kenya Korea, North Kosovo Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Madagascar Mauritania Mexico Mongolia Mozambique Myanmar Nepal Nicaragua Niger Peru Philippines Russia Saudi Arabia Sierra Leone Solomon Islands South Africa Sri Lanka Sudan Swaziland (Eswatini) Tajikistan Tanzania Togo Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Uganda Ukraine Zimbabwe

LOW (91) Albania Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Barbados Belarus Belgium Benin Bhutan Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brunei Bulgaria Canada Chile China Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Dominica Equatorial Guinea Estonia France Gabon The Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Hungary Ireland Italy Japan Jordan Korea, South Kuwait Latvia Lithuania Macedonia Malawi Malaysia Maldives Malta Mauritius Micronesia Moldova Monaco Montenegro Morocco Namibia Netherlands New Zealand Oman Panama Palau Paraguay Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Rwanda Saint Kitts & Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Serbia Singapore Slovakia Spain Suriname Sweden Taiwan Thailand Tonga UAE United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Vietnam Zambia

INSIGNIFICANT (17) Andorra Cape Verde Denmark Finland Greenland Iceland Kiribati Liechtenstein Luxembourg Marshall Islands Nauru Norway San Marino Seychelles Slovenia Switzerland Turks & Caicos Tuvalu

The full interactive map by International SOS can be accessed here .

More rankings and articles can be found in our  remote work  area: ►  Best cities in the world ► Countries with the best healthcare in the world ►  World’s worst countries to drive in ►  Most peaceful countries in the world ►  Best countries for women ►  Poorest countries in the world – ranked ►  Happiest countries in the world ►  World’s most powerful passport ►  Countries with the fastest internet in the world ►  Most stressed countries in the world ►  Most expensive cities for expats ►  World’s most democratic countries

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