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Africa is a daring adventure for many visitors from across the world. The mystery of culture and plenty of wildlife make it the best safari destination in the world.
As the second-largest continent is full of options for adventure seekers. From South to North Africa is beyond expectation. Beautiful beaches, history, the Big Five, and mountains make Africa a wonderland.
Knowing and deciding which country, when, and where to visit can be a challenge for many people. Each country has something unique to offer its visitors, whether historical, cultural, or natural.
The decision of which country to visit can be tough. Taking into account the media broadcast of different crime scenes. Some parts of Africa have been in chaos due to political or civil wars. This creates a lot of tension and sometimes puts visitors in danger.
The truth is that not every part of Africa is in war or chaos. Many countries in Africa are very peaceful and worth visiting for a holiday.
In this article, we will dive deep to discuss the Safest Countries in Africa to visit for either travel or business.
The consideration of the Global Peace Index (GPI) in this article is taken into account. Though other countries presented here are according to the travel advisory.
Safest Countries Overview
Before we dive into the GPI rank for Africa, let’s be aware of the following:
- What is the Global Peace Index?
- What are the top five peaceful countries in the global ranking?
- What are the top five least peaceful countries in the global ranking?
- What are the top 20 peaceful African countries?
- What are the best countries to visit according to travel advisories?
Global Peace Index (GPI)
It’s an international report published every year. By the Institute of Economic and Peace (IEP). It covers 163 countries. It’s a benchmark study that measures the national peace level.
This study uses 23 key metrics to determine the country’s position on the index. All the indicators are grouped into three broad categories, which are
- Ongoing International and Domestic Conflict
- Societal Safety, and
- Security and Militarization
These scores were merged to create a GPI value for each country. The lower the score, the more peaceful and safe the country is.
What are the top five peaceful countries in the global ranking?
- Iceland
- Norway
- Japan
- Denmark
- Singapore
What are the top five least peaceful countries in the global ranking?
- Afghanistan
- Venezuela
- Yemen
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- South Sudan
For more details, see the 2022 Global Peace Index Report by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP).
The top 20 African Peaceful Countries by GPI rank in 2022
20. Algeria (2.146 )
Algeria is one of the largest countries in Africa. It’s a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, architecture, and culture to offer travelers.
Despite safety cautions for travel. The people of Algeria are very hospitable to visitors. They are very happy and humble and love to share a way of their life.
Travel from Europe can take a short time to Algeria. It is quite easy to detect the difference between Europe and Africa.
The architecture, history, the coast of the Mediterranean, and winding streets. This creates an awesome experience for visitors.
Like the rest of the world, taking safety precautions before traveling is the key. Prefer traveling with reputable companies or agencies, but also avoid night walks.
The Sahara region remains an iconic attraction in this country. The endless moving sand is a mystery in this region. Other best places to visit include Algiers, Constantine, Atakor, Ghardaia, Tamanrasset, Oran, Batna, Annaba, Tlemcen, In Salah, Setif, El Oued, Bejaia, Djanet, and Timgad.
19. Cote d’ Ivoire (2.144)
This is beautiful West Africa, bordered by Guinea to the northwest. Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, to the east of Ghana, and to the southwest of Liberia. And to the south by the Gulf of Guinea (Atlantic Ocean),
Côte d’Ivoire has quite an interesting blend of beautiful landscapes and traditions. It is an ideal country, especially for people interested in ecotourism. There is so much to discover in Côte d’Ivoire.
Côte d’Ivoire has many interesting attractions available for sightseeing. Abidjan itself has the Parc du Banco on the outskirts of the city. This park allows visitors to explore rainforests.
Inside Abidjan City is the Hotel Ivoire, which is a glamorous place to stay. St Paul’s Cathedral is another site within the city of Abidjan worth a visit in Cote d’Ivoire.
Visitors can also see the capital city of Yamoussoukro. This city is famous for multiple-lane highways leading straight to the jungle or the city.
Yamoussoukro is also famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro. (Basilica Notre Dame) which is roughly based on St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
The town of Man is also well known for its fabric and the traditional masks on sale. But also for its surrounding waterfalls and beautiful natural scenery.
For travelers who wish to visit this country, you’d better do some research. Keep an eye on the media for current news and updates about safety.
18. Benin ( 2.125)
Benin is a small country in Africa and has only a few large cities. Cotonou, the largest city and economic center, still displays its colonial heritage.
With a slave trade background, history, and architecture. This country rewards its visitors with a wonderful and memorable experience.
Ranking with 2.125 GPI, yet is the safest country to visit in Africa.
Ruins and their history are the biggest attractions to visitors in Benin. The Vodoo practice is very common in this country
Abomey, the ancient place, museums, and even the slave pathway are a unique heritage. Benin also offers National Parks and Atlantic beaches.
Traveling to Benin may seem dangerous, but as in any other part of the world, precaution is the key. Avoid night walks in the streets, and walk with local guides. And prefer to seek reputable agents for trips.
17. Togo (2.094)
Togo has a short history compared with other African countries. With its capital city at Lome, Togo depicts the low evidence of ancient civilization. The oldest known records go back 10 centuries.
Bordered by Burkina Faso and Ghana, this country is worth visiting. The off-beaten track of the best landscapes, including mountains, rivers, swamps, and wildlife.
The Atlantic Ocean adds spice with the beautiful sea breeze and watersports arena. Don’t forget the Koutammakou village, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Like other African countries, stay vigilant when it comes to travel. Take note of many events like elections and strikes. Consult travel specialists in this region and take a look at major media coverage.
Togo on our list is worth visiting in Africa. Recommended places include Kpalime, Koutammakou, Togoville, Lome, Agbodrafo, and Fazio Malfakassa National Park. Fosse aux Lions National Park and Keran National Park
16. Lesotho (2.089)
The origins of the country now known as Lesotho go back some 40,000 years. Back in the time of the first San hunter-gatherer bushman tribes. Which left their mark on the region via iconic rock art
Lesotho is a beautiful country that lies above 1800m with the highest peak at 3482m. Lesotho has a lot to offer visitors.
Basotho people are proud of their unique heritage. The undiluted Western influences. Lesotho stands at 18th for Sub-Saharan peaceful countries.
Like any other destination, proper preparation is important for a better experience. It’s a low-risk travel destination, though precautions should be taken when traveling abroad.
15. Eswatini (2.033 )
The Kingdom of Eswatini was formerly named Swaziland. It is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. It is bordered by Mozambique to its northeast and South Africa to its north. Eswatini is one of the smallest countries in Africa
Swazi people are the ethnic group of this country. The government is an absolute monarchy, the last of its kind in Africa. And has been ruled by King Mswati III since 1986.
Eswatini is the most beautiful and peaceful country to visit in Africa.
14. Tanzania (2.001)
Tanzania is well represented as the land of Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and the Serengeti. It is a democratic country in East Africa.
It stands as the giant African safari hotspot. Either for wildlife, safaris, mountain climbing, or beach holidays.
Tanzania is incomparable to any other country in Africa. The big five in Ngorongoro or the cultural trip in Masai land are an awesome experience you won’t dare to miss.
Visiting Tanzania is made easy by friendly policies set by the government. Visitors to Tanzania can apply for a visa online.
When it comes to safety, Tanzania is generally safe. Whether to foreigners or locals. Local people are so welcoming and genourous. There are no crimes related to tourists, either hijacking or gun robbery.
Despite being safe, precautions should be taken in developed cities like Arusha. Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
The takeaway point for this location is avoiding moving around during the night. Avoid if possible night parties away from your point of arrival. It’s quite common in other major cities to find pocket pickers.
Though in major destinations like Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. These areas are so secure and well-protected. There are no related crime issues.
Tanzania remains the best safari destination for all groups of clients. Either budget or luxury safaris in Africa. Click here for more details on why you should visit Tanzania.
13. Tunisia (1.996)
Tunisia ranks as the 7th peaceful country in Northern Africa with a Global Peace Index of 1.996. Higher than Russia and Israel stands at 85 on the peace rank index globally.
Tunisia is a magical country of warm sun, desert heat, cool oases, date palms, and spicy jasmine.
If you’re thinking of visiting Tunisia is a country with pure sandy beaches. Serene vacation in an atmosphere of warmth and peace. Beyond the beaches, Tunisia offers the best places to see, such as the Holy Temples.
The magnificent Carthage. The Colosseum, The Sultry Sahara, and other memorable attractions of Tunisia.
The country is developing at a high pace in terms of services. Best hotels and lodges available for visitors.
Traveling to Tunisia needs proper preparation based on ongoing protests. There have been reports of protests between the government and a few groups. Care should be taken before traveling to Tunisia.
12. Madagascar (1.995 )
Madagascar is an island and a country in the Indian Ocean. Approximately 400 kilometers off the coast of East Africa, across Mozambique. At 592,800 square kilometers.
Madagascar is the world’s second-largest country that consists of island, after Indonesia. Its capital city, Antananarivo, with a population of 27.69 million (2020) World Bank. The local currency is the Malagasy ariary.
Madagascar is a dream destination for nature lovers. Offers the best tourist attractions, including parks and beautiful beaches.
Madagascar is a challenging destination, lacking in basic infrastructure and plagued by poverty. The crime rate is a bit higher,as the saying goes, “poverty breeds crime.”
Despite that, safety precautions should be taken into account. Take time to research reputable agencies or hotels that organize tours.
11. Angola (1.982)
Angola is one of the last countries you will think of as a tourist destination. Yet it is one of the most beautiful countries you should think about, with its beautiful natural scenery.
Since the civil war ended in 2002, Angola has been enjoying something of a renaissance. With its capital city of Luanda. The economic prosperity of this nation is a surprise.
Angola offers the best places to visit, like Kalandula Falls and the Rapids of Kwanza. Kissama National Park, Miradouro da Lua, Island of Mussulo, and many more.
Taking precautions and researching any country is another key point to consider. Angola is worth visiting in Africa.
10. Gabon (1.973)
Gabon is a country along the Atlantic coast of Central Africa. Libreville is the capital city of Gabon. It has significant areas of protected parkland.
With a population of 1,995,659 inhabitants (2018) and a surface area of 257,667 km². While in Gabon, you can visit Saint-Michael’s church of Nkembo to the Mount Bouët market. The arts and Traditions museum. The Sibang Arboretum, the Albert Schweitzer Museum, and the Kongou waterfalls. And the Avenue Island
Gabon is also the best chance to visit Loango, Lopé, and Akanda National Parks. These parks are well known for gorrila and beaches.
Gabon is safe to visit in Africa, but you should prepare in advance before traveling.
9. Morocco (1.969 )
Morocco is a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s composed of Berber, Arabian, and European cultural influences.
The capital Rabat’s Kasbah of the Udayas is a 12th-century royal fort overlooking the water.
Morocco is, for the most part, a safe country to visit. Its crime rates are relatively low. However, it is advised to remain vigilant at all times and keep your valuables in a safe place.
It is a friendly Muslim country. So it is expected of tourists to be respectful of Islamic culture and customs.
Morocco is filled with gorgeous natural beauties, varying from the sea to the mountains. The desert and the mix of cultures
8. Senegal (1.916) and Rwanda (1.945)
Senegal
Senegal is a reasonably safe country to visit in Africa. Dropping from 1.883 in 2021 to 1.916, it fares better than the USA when it comes to country-wide safety.
Like other countries experiences petty crime and a few instances of violence. are to be found.
Senegal is a French-speaking country, so this could be a bit challenge you may face. If you only speak English, you should consider hiring a guide who speaks both languages.
For visitors to this country, Senegal will surprise you with its best attractions. These include the pink lake of Senegal, which is a tourist hotspot. The vibrant town of Casamance is where tourists can unwind and relax.
Nature lovers visit places like DjouDJ.Madeleine Island, and Lagoon La Somon.
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure; take safety precautions in cities like Dakar. Avoid late-night walks on beaches and, if possible, stay with locals. Media coverage is also the best way to get informed about what is going on before you leave your country for Senegal.
Rwanda
Rwanda is witnessing tremendous growth in terms of economy and peace ranking. The positive change from #83 in 2021 to #72 in 2022, climbing the ladder by 11 positions compared with others.
Rwanda is the safest country to visit in Africa. The UK government advisory declared Rwanda to be safe. And low-crime zones in Africa.
We recommend taking precautions in the border areas of Burundi and Congo. Rwanda has a lot to offer, from Gorrila trekking, nature, and trekking. Wildlife safaris at Akagera National Park and beautiful culture.
Visit Kigali- the vibrant, clean, and well-developed city in East Africa.
7. Malawi (1.895) and Namibia (1.908)
Malawi
Though dropping almost six positions to #65 on the GPI rank for 2022. Malawi maintains its position in the top ten safest African countries to visit. As of 2021, Malawi has the GPI rank of 59, knocking out Greece(66) and France (55).
Malawi is a proud African safari destination, including Liwonde, Lengwe, and Nyika national parks.
Malawi is generally a safe country to visit in Africa. The low crime level is the key indicator of peace in the country and its people.
Few cases, like in other parts of the world, handbag snatching and petty theft are common in big cities.
Unwind and relax along Lake Malawi, the largest freshwater lake, with sandy beaches. It is an ideal country to visit for an African vacation.
Namibia
Namibia stands at #68 by GPI rank 2022. Yet still maintaining its position among the top ten safe countries to visit in Africa.
Namibia is a country with a low crime rate. Offering the best wild safaris, road trips, and cultural experiences. Is an ideal travel destination for safe, cautious travelers.
Like other southern African countries. Namibia offers the best parks, like Etosha National Park and Skeleton Coast National Park. And Mudumu National Park. for wildlife safaris.
6. Equatorial Guinea (1.863)
Equatorial Guinea is up three ranks from 2022 to #59 compared with 2021, which was #62 on the Global Peace Index.
The peace score has changed from 1.92 (2021) to 1.863 this year as of this writing. This country is a safe country to visit in Africa, with its capital at Conakry.
Thinking of the beautiful places to visit, this country is well known for its blue waters. Sandy beaches and thick forests, but also wild animals like elephants and Gorrila can be seen.
5. Zambia (1.841)
Zambia is the best African country to visit, standing at #56 on the Global Peace Index and #6 on the Sub-Saharan Africa list. Zambia is safe and free from political chaos. Visitors to Zambia rarely experience any problems.
As with most cities, there is potential for theft in hubs such as Lusaka and Livingstone. In general, Zambia is safe, though you should avoid any protests.
Whether you will visit for safari or business, it’s still the best place. While in Zambia, we recommend visiting Victoria Falls
4. Botswana (1.801) and Sierra Leone (1.803)
Botswana
Thinking of safe countries in Africa? Then, Botswana should be on your top list of countries in Africa. Leading the list for sub-Saharan countries. Botswana on the Global Peace Index ranks for 2022 got a score of 1.801 and #48 on the global rank.
Though there is a slight change from 2021, which was 1.676 to 1.801 in 2022, it’s the best country for luxury safaris.
Botswana is safer than China, Greece, and even France. You can visit the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.
Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is one of the top five safe African countries. Sierra Leone displayed the shining colors at #50 rank on the global list with a score of 1.803.
This country is booming with tourist activities in West Africa. Like other countries, Sierra Leone experiences crime problems. With some instances where tourists are robbed.
Take precautions before visiting Sierra Leone. Seek support from local communities or agencies if you need to move around during the night.
3. Gambia (1.792)
The beautiful country in West Africa is the Gambia. Booming with travel for its sandy beaches, diverse wildlife, and hospitable people. Banjul is the capital city of this country.
Gambia is quite a safe country to think about in Africa. With a Global Peace Index rank of 1.792 by 2022. Gambia on third position in Africa with low crime rates.
This country offers a lot of activities to its visitors, including horse riding. Fishing and wildlife trips in parks.
Petty theft and pickpockets should be a point to consider while in Gambia. Also, con artists, fraudsters, and scammers are everywhere, like in other countries across the world.
2. Ghana (1.759)
Ghana is a beautiful country and is rich in cultural heritage and wildlife. Ghana is a proud African country with an authentic culture dating back to the 18th century. Accra is the capital city of Ghana.
On the Global Peace Index, Ghana is at #40 by 2022 with a score of 1.759. It is an indicator of how this country is in terms of governance and its people.
Like other flourishing cities in the world. Accra experiences some instances of crime, like petty theft. Despite that, Ghana is growing as the key destination in Africa for ecotourism. wildlife safaris and surfing.
While in Ghana, you can visit Jamestown, Cape Coast Castles, and the beaches of Accra
1. Mauritius (1.57)
Mauritius holds the crown for the most African countries. Ranking number #28 on the global list. Mauritius has become a tourist paradise in Africa. The beaches, lagoons, and wildlife forests.
The crime rate is quite low in Mauritius. Low crime scenes, such as petty theft, do occur with minimal risk.
From culture to sunbathing, this country is a wonderland. The best vacation destination for honeymooners.
Our deep analysis of safe countries to visit in Africa comes to an end. This list is subject to change depending on the political or social stability of this nation. Keeping an eye on news, magazines, and all other reputable news sources is a critical measure.
Bonus list for Other safari destinations in Africa
Kenya
Kenya remains the best safari destination in East Africa. The well-known parks include the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Mount Kenya.
Kenya safety: The usual safety precautions apply in the cities. On safari, most risks are associated with wild animals, and with a good guide, these risks are minimal. If self-driving, avoid the roads at night and use a reputable car hire company
The best time to visit Kenya for vacation is from June to October.
Uganda
Thinking of the best gorrila trekking country to visit in Africa? Then Uganda should be your top priority.
During elections or times of protest, it’s wise to seek advice and stay away from the cities.
When to visit Uganda: The driest periods are June to August and December to February.
We hope that you now have a general idea about Africa. The choice of where to visit will depend on your preference.
If you need any help planning for the African safari, feel free to contact us.
For more resources about an African safari, we suggest reading our best articles about Africa
