Discover the safest countries in Africa in this article.
African nations feature diverse landscapes—golden beaches, snowy mountains, dense jungles, and vast deserts.
Whether in lively cities or serene rural areas, tourists find captivating experiences.
Travelers often express safety concerns in Africa, with some countries having high crime rates targeting tourists.
We assessed countries’ safety using the Global Peace Index, factoring in political stability and traveler crime risks.
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Top 5 Safest Countries in Africa
Mauritius:
- GPI Ranking: 28th in the world
- GPI Score: 1.570
- Mauritius boasts a low crime rate, with violent crime being extremely rare.
- Petty crimes, like pickpocketing, can occur, especially in tourist hotspots.
- The island is generally safe for women, but travelers should exercise common sense.
- Natural disasters, such as cyclones, pose a risk from November to May. Adhering to warnings and local advice is crucial.
Ghana:
- GPI Ranking: 40th in the world
- GPI Score: 1.759
- Ghana has a relatively low overall crime rate compared to some other African countries.
- Travelers should be cautious, especially after dark, and avoid displaying valuables.
- Beaches in Ghana may pose a higher risk of crime, including theft and violence.
- High tourist popularity brings an increased risk of scams; vigilance and common sense are advised.
The Gambia:
- GPI Ranking: 45th in the world
- GPI Score: 1.792
- The Gambia is generally safe for travelers, with a focus on petty crimes like pickpocketing.
- Caution is advised to conceal valuables, and avoiding carrying all money in one place is recommended.
- The risk of violent crimes and muggings is minimal.
- Corruption is an issue; travelers might be offered marijuana with police waiting for a bribe. Scams targeting tourists for extortion are also reported.
Botswana:
- GPI Ranking: 48th in the world
- GPI Score: 1.801
- Botswana, located in Southern Africa, stands as the fourth safest country in Africa.
- Tourist attacks and scams are rare, though incidents like bag snatching, muggings, and carjackings may occur.
- Travelers are advised to stay vigilant and not resist if targeted.
- Known for its nature reserves, Botswana attracts tourists, who should adhere to local advice to prevent animal attacks and avoid swimming in rivers and lakes due to potential dangers from animals and diseases.
5. Sierra Leone:
- GPI Ranking: 50th in the world
- GPI Score: 1.803
- Sierra Leone, situated in West Africa, is recognized as the fifth safest country in Africa.
- Despite its friendly reputation, Sierra Leone faces a high crime rate, with pickpocketing and mugging being primary risks, sometimes involving weapons.
- While many travelers experience incident-free trips, political unrest can still occur. In 2022, violent demonstrations took place in some cities, emphasizing the importance of avoiding political gatherings and adhering to local restrictions.