10 of the Safest Places To Visit in Africa in 2024-2025
The following are the ten most secure countries in Africa to visit between 2024 and 2025:
Adventure in the Wild Safaris examines the ten most secure African nations to visit in 2024, as determined by the most recent Global Peace Index rankings and the government travel advisories of the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada.
Additionally, we sought the advice of renowned African travel specialists to identify four of the most secure African countries, which are visited annually by millions of tourists.
The ten nations in Africa that are the safest to visit in 2024, as determined by the most recent Global Peace Index (GPI) rankings and travel safety advisories.
We have compiled a list of the ten most secure African countries to visit today. This list includes travel advisory information from the US Department of State, the UK Government, and the Government of Canada, as well as advice from travel safety specialists.
It is advisable to consult with a travel expert prior to making a decision regarding when and where to travel in order to obtain reliable and current advice. For guidance from one of our African travel experts, please reach out to Adventure in the Wild Safaris.
The following are the ten most secure countries in Africa to visit in 2024:
10. Malawi
Malawi, which was previously ranked as one of the friendliest and safest African countries to visit, has now plummeted to #80 on the 2024 Global Peace Index, sandwiched between Nepal and Morocco.
Malawi is currently regarded as one of the most secure countries in Africa to visit, despite its ranking below Angola, Liberia, Sudan, and Sierra Leone.
The Malawian people are known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” due to their tenderness and friendliness. Malawi is home to several exceptional safari destinations, including Majete and Liwonde, as well as the freshwater paradise of Lake Malawi.
Browse our Malawi Safari Tours
OVERALL SAFETY
For the most part, Malawi is a secure African nation to visit. Petty street crime can be a significant issue, particularly in urban areas such as Lilongwe and the majority of cities worldwide.
The UK Government recommends that “[m]ost visits to Malawi are trouble-free, but you should take sensible precautions to protect yourself from muggers and bag-snatchers. The majority of thefts from visitors occur around the main bus stations in Lilongwe and Blantyre. Avoid walking around quiet areas, especially after dark.” The Canadian government advises exercising a high degree of caution due to crime. The Mulanje district is a high-risk location for crime.
9. Morocco
Morocco is frequently regarded as one of the finest countries in Africa and is ranked #79 on the 2024 Global Peace Index. It is politically stable and has a strong history of travel safety.
The majority of travelers experience trouble-free visits. Although there is a small amount of petty crime, the Moroccan tourism industry is well-established, and there are few travelers who encounter serious crime.
Please be advised that Morocco is one of numerous African countries that are not considered secure travel destinations for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
OVERALL SAFETY
According to the UK Government, the majority of the nearly 700,000 UK nationals who visit Morocco annually experience no complications.
8. Tanzania
Tanzania has improved its ranking from #86 to #65 in the 2024 Global Peace Index since 2022, indicating that it is becoming a safer African destination to visit.
Tanzania is one of the most secure countries in Africa and one of the most exceptional destinations for safaris. Tanzania’s tourism industry is well-established, and it includes safari destinations such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Ruaha, Kilimanjaro, and many others.
OVERALL SAFETY
Tanzania is generally a safe African country, according to Lonely Planet. “[w]hile solo travelers may be a minor curiosity in rural areas, especially solo women travelers, there are no particular issues with traveling solo in Tanzania.” The Travel Safe Abroad website suggests that “Tanzania is mostly safe to visit, though caution is recommended especially in tourist areas such as Arusha, Stone Town (Zanzibar), and Dar es Salaam” .
In conclusion, they assert that “there is a likelihood that you will not encounter any negative experiences or incidents” during your visit to Tanzania.
Browse our Tanzania Safaris
7. Namibia
The 2022 Global Peace Index ranks Namibia as one of the most placid and secure countries in Africa to visit, ranking it at #62.
Namibia has historically been one of the most politically stable countries in Africa. Additionally, it is one of the least populous countries in the globe.
Namibia’s tourism industry is well-developed, and its infrastructure is generally robust. Namibia is one of the most secure countries in Africa for solitary female travelers. In this arid southern African nation, the primary concern is the prevention of dehydration and desert animals, rather than crime in general.
• Prepare a budget for Namibia Safari Tours
OVERALL SAFETY
While Namibia is generally considered one of the safest African countries to visit, there is a presence of crime. In Windhoek, crime is primarily a concern, and the issue is primarily that of non-violent petty crime.
5. Zambia
Zambia is one of the most secure countries in Africa to visit, ranking #57 on the Global Peace Index. It is also one of the most exceptional safari destinations in Africa.
Zambia is an unforgettable safari destination that offers incredible African safari tours, and it is the 39th largest country in the globe, spanning 752,614 km² (290,586 sq mi). Victoria Falls and Livingstone (southernmost Zambia), South Luangwa National Park (southeast Zambia, close Malawi), and Kafue National Park (central Zambia) are the top safari destinations.
OVERALL SAFETY
The UK government asserts that the majority of Zambian visits are uneventful. Travelers are advised to “exercise normal precautions in Zambia” and are classified as a Level 1 country by the US Department of State, which indicates that there is minimal security risk. Normal security precautions and a high degree of caution are recommended by the Government of Canada in specific border regions.
4. Ghana
One of the safest countries to visit in Africa is Ghana, which ranks #55 on the Global Peace Index. Ghana, which is occasionally referred to as “Africa for beginners,” is an exceptionally safe and amiable nation that is highly recommended for first-time visitors to Africa. Ghanaians are renowned for their amiable, helpful, and hospitable demeanor, as well as their adherence to “African time.”
OVERALL SAFETY
The West African nation of Ghana is recognized for its stability and low crime rates, which are particularly noteworthy in this region of Africa. Ghana is not crime-free, but the UK Government reports that approximately 90,000 British nationals visit the country annually, and the majority of these visits are uneventful. They do issue warnings regarding criminal activity, particularly in the capital city of Accra, such as fraud, carjackings, and larceny.
Travelers are advised by the United States Department of State that there is an elevated likelihood of criminal activity in specific regions. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when visiting border areas, particularly the northern border, and to exercise extra caution in the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions due to civil unrest.
3. Botswana
According to the 2024 Global Peace Index Report, Botswana is the third most secure country in Africa to visit.
According to Travel Nomads, Botswana is one of the safest countries in Africa, and the report positions it at #50, based on its 23 indicators.
As the most secure nation in Africa for a traditional African safari, Botswana is the winner.
Botswana is not only one of the most rewarding safari destinations, but it is also the safest African country for safaris. Despite not being the most affordable option for African safari tours, there are numerous fantastic, budget-friendly Botswana safaris to choose from, including over 170 Botswana safaris on Adventure in the Wild.
OVERALL SAFETY
It is indicative of the safety of a location when the Canadian government recommends that visitors adhere to standard security protocols, as it does in Botswana.
The UK Government is less optimistic and cautions that petty and serious crime is on the rise in urban areas such as Gaborone and Francistown, despite the fact that tourists are rarely attacked. Travel safety specialists (Travel Safe – Abroad) have gone so far as to describe Botswana as “possibly the safest country in entire Africa.”\
2. The island of Madagascar
Madagascar has improved its safety ranking and is currently ranked #44 on the 2024 Global Peace Index.
Madagascar is an ideal destination for adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts, as it is a distinct and largely undeveloped island that is largely off-the-beaten-track. The island is rich in biodiversity.
Madagascar is a relatively secure African country to visit; however, it is important to be cognizant of the risks and adhere to travel advice.
For instance, it is advisable to refrain from walking in Antananarivo after dark. Madagascar is not the most politically stable country, and crime (primarily larceny and robbery) is prevalent in both urban and rural areas. Consequently, visitors must exercise caution.
The Broke Backpacker affirms that “Many people would recommend that you only travel the island with an organized tour company or hire a guide to take you around.” It is best to visit Madagascar with a trusted tour company or registered guide (ask our travel consultants for free advice).
1. Mauritius
Mauritius is the most secure nation in Africa, as indicated by its ranking of #22 on the 2024 Global Peace Index.
This tranquil African nation surpasses Spain (23), Italy (33), and the United Kingdom (34). Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean that is breathtakingly gorgeous, is a highly secure destination.
Adventure in the Wild Safaris does not offer any trips to the idyllic island of Mauritius, as it is not a budget African travel destination or an African safari destination. Nevertheless, the island is home to a diverse array of bird and marine life, including Mauritian kestrels, whales, dolphins, and giant tortoises.
OVERALL SAFETY
Mauritius is a low-risk travel destination with a low crime rate, which is why it is ranked as the safest African country. The Canadian government only recommends “normal security precautions.” However, the UK government warns travelers of petty crime and advises them to “[t]ake care of bags and valuables in popular tourist areas including Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Flic en Flac.”
Comparing the Global Peace Index’s Safest Countries in Africa to Other Countries
In order to provide context, the following is a list of some internationally recognized countries and their respective rankings on the Global Peace Index (GPI). For additional information on the GPI, please refer to the article “What Is the Global Peace Index?”
Canada is ranked #11, Croatia is #15, the Netherlands is #18, Australia is #19, and Germany is #20. The United Kingdom is ranked #34, and the United States of America is ranked #132, five places below South Africa at #127.
Iceland (#1), Ireland (#2), Austria (#3), and New Zealand (#4) are the most tranquil countries in the world. The three least peaceful countries on the 2024 Global Peace Index are South Sudan (#161), Sudan (#162), and Yemen (#163).
No destination on Earth is entirely secure, and travel always entails risks. Even in New Zealand, petty crime is prevalent, and there are warnings regarding crime directed at tourists, even in rural areas. Consequently, it is imperative to remain vigilant and exercise reasonable precautions when visiting any country, regardless of its degree of safety.
The following are the four most secure countries in Africa to visit, as determined by travel advisories:
Not the Global Peace Index (GPI), these are four of the most secure African countries to visit, as determined by travel experts and advisories.
1. Swaziland (Eswatini)
A mountainous landlocked country in southern Africa, Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland) is still one of the safest countries to visit in Africa, with a ranking of #103. It is bordered by Mozambique and South Africa.
The Kingdom of Eswatini, which was previously known as the Kingdom of Swaziland, is “… In general, a secure country to travel to… The average visitor’s experience is exceedingly friendly and relaxed, and hospitality is a cornerstone of Swazi culture (Bradt Guides 2021).
Browse our Eswatini Safaris
2. Seychelles
The GPI 2024 report did not include Seychelles, which is regarded as a highly secure travel destination and consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Africa to visit. Additionally, Seychelles has a well-established tourism industry and has been a popular tourist destination for many years.
The Canadian Government’s advisory for travelers interested in visiting Seychelles is to exercise standard security precautions. The United Kingdom Government asserts that “the majority of visits to Seychelles are uneventful.”
3. Rwanda
Rwanda has long been regarded as one of the safest countries in Africa to visit, ranking #92 on the Global Peace Index. This landlocked East African nation is home to rare animals, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Rwanda’s capital city is renowned for its cleanliness and the cordial reception it extends to visitors. This secure African nation is also a treasure trove of flora and fauna, and its verdant savannah is awe-inspiring.
• Rwanda Safari Tours for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
OVERALL SAFETY
Despite Rwanda’s relatively low crime rates, there are reports of petty street crime in Kigali. The UK Government alerts that “there are cases of burglary, theft, bag snatching, and mugging in Kigali.” It is imperative that you implement prudent measures. Exercise caution when walking at night.
List of Other Safe African Countries to Visit
In addition to the 14 safest African countries mentioned above, we consider the following countries to be safe to visit in Africa, with several caveats. If you adhere to travel advice and avoid specific areas and behaviors, you should have a trouble-free travel experience, as millions of other travelers do each year.
• Ethiopia – Browse our Ethiopia Safaris
• Lesotho – Browse our Lesotho Safaris
• Kenya – Browse our Kenya Safaris
• Zambia – Browse our Zambia Safaris
• South Africa – Browse our South Africa Safaris
We offer African safari tours to all of the aforementioned countries and have assisted numerous travelers in securely visiting them since the inception of Adventure in the Wild Safaris in 2007. For additional information and guidance on safely visiting these African countries, please consult an African travel expert.
What is the Global Peace Index?
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is an annual report published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) that is internationally recognized. This benchmark study assesses and ranks the peace levels of 163 countries, thereby encompassing approximately 99.7% of the global population (World Population Review).
The ranking of countries on the index is determined by the study’s 23 peace indicators, which are categorized into three general categories: 1) Ongoing International and Domestic Conflict, 2) Societal Safety, and 3) Security, and Militarization. The most recent GPI report was published in 2024.
For further information, consult the 2024 Global Peace Index Report published by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP).
Our list of the 10 safest countries in Africa does not include the top-ranked countries in the Global Peace Index.
We do not provide African safari tours to the following African countries, as they are not included in our list of the safest locations to visit due to specific safety concerns, mixed reviews from travelers, and warnings from travel advisories and experts.
Gambia
The Gambia, the smallest country in Africa, is the 14th most peaceful country in Africa and is ranked #83 on the Global Peace Index, on a par with Turkmenistan. It is a secure country to visit, and the majority of visitors have a trouble-free travel experience.
OVERALL SAFETY
The Gambia is generally a safe country to visit. The UK Government reports that the majority of visits to this African country are trouble-free, “although independent travelers are at increased risk due to the lack of local support in an emergency.” The US Department of State cautions travelers to exercise increased caution in “The Gambia’s southern border area adjacent to Senegal’s Casamance region due to the potential presence of landmines.”
It is crucial to acknowledge that homosexuality is prohibited in The Gambia, which is why it is not an LGBTQ-friendly destination.
Senegal
Although Senegal is ranked #85 on the 2024 Global Peace Index, it is not considered one of the safest countries in Africa to visit due to its high crime rates, which include both violent and trivial crimes.
Senegal is classified as Level 1 (Excercise normal precautions) by the US Department of State, while the Canadian government recommends a high level of caution due to the presence of landmines and crime. The UK government, on the other hand, maintains that the majority of visits are uneventful. Travel Safe – Abroad, however, notes that “[a]part from the fighting that is currently taking place in the Casamance region of Senegal… This is why it would be prudent to steer clear of this region; there are compelling reasons to maintain a high level of vigilance on the streets of Senegal, as petty larceny and violent crime are significant concerns in this nation.
Liberia and Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone and Liberia, which were ranked #66 and #69 on the Global Peace Index in 2021, have been removed from the list of the safest countries to visit in Africa due to their status as a’medium-security risk’ travel destination. Despite Sierra Leone’s #50 ranking on the Global Peace Index, it is not considered one of the safest countries in Africa to visit due to crime (robbery and assault).
Equatorial Guinea
#94 has also been removed as a result of travel advisory warnings. The UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to Equatorial Guinea. The Canadian Government advises travelers to “exercise a high degree of caution in Equatorial Guinea due to crime,” and Travel Safe Abroad warns that Equatorial Guinea is “a country with extremely high crime rates, corruption, and diseases,” and that “the rates of petty crime are among the worst you can expect when traveling, so this is a country where you definitely shouldn’t let your guard down.”
Other African countries were rated in the top 120 of the Global Peace Index.
Liberia is ranked #69, Angola is #73, Tunisia is #74, Guinea-Bissau is #86, and Benin is #114.
Cote d’Ivoire (109), Kenya (122), Lesotho (125), Uganda (126), South Africa (127), and the Republic of Congo (158) are all ranked in that order.
African Safaris: A Guide to Travel Safety
Visitors must be cognizant of and adequately equipped to confront the hazards associated with potentially lethal animals in game reserves and specific diseases in specific regions when embarking on a safari in Africa.
For additional information regarding safety concerns during African safaris, consult The Complete African Safari Medical Guide and Safety on African Safaris.
In order to guarantee the safety of our guests, it is mandatory to purchase travel insurance on all of our African safari excursions. For additional information and advice, please refer to our Travel Insurance for Africa page.
Speak with one of our travel advisors who specialize in affordable African travel to receive assistance in organizing your travels to Africa in 2024 and beyond.
