Top 10 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit on Vacation
Exploring Africa is an enchanting and rewarding experience, offering gorgeous landscapes, fascinating cultures, and wildlife encounters. However, travel involves some security risks which you can easily avoid with simple research. Fortunately, there is a good list of the safest countries in Africa you can visit trouble-free.
From the stunning archipelago of Seychelles, known for its low crime rates and stable government, to the wildlife wonders of Tanzania and the adventurous landscapes of Namibia, each country offers unique experiences while prioritizing traveler safety. Whether you’re dreaming of gorilla treks in Uganda, thrilling safaris in Botswana, or the tranquil beauty of Mauritius, this guide will help you plan your African journey with safety and adventure in mind. These are the safest places in Africa you can visit.
1. Seychelles
The Seychelles, a stunning archipelago situated in the Indian Ocean, has always been a go-to destination for travelers seeking a safe and secure vacation. It is regarded as one of the safest countries to visit in Africa, and tourists can breathe easy without worrying about crime, especially when they are away from the main islands.
The government of Seychelles is stable, and tourism is a significant contributor to its economy. Most visitors prefer staying in beach resorts, which significantly reduces the likelihood of encountering any kind of crime. However, it is worth being cautious about the strong currents in the sea while swimming.
Whether you plan to visit during the dry and cool months from May to September or the best diving and snorkeling months from March to May and September to November, the Seychelles is a year-round African destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
2. Rwanda
Rwanda’s stunning landscape boasts rolling hills, lush forests, and majestic volcanoes, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable safari experience. But what truly sets Rwanda apart is its unique opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is sure to leave travelers in awe.
As for safety, Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. However, it’s always wise to exercise caution in urban areas by staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas, and being wary of pickpockets. By following these simple tips, travelers can fully enjoy all that Rwanda has to offer without worrying about their safety.
Exercise standard precautions in urban regions. For gorilla treks, ensure you book with registered, reputable tour operators.
Dry Seasons from June to September and December to February offer pleasant weather for gorilla treks.
3. Tanzania
Tanzania boasts an unparalleled wildlife diversity, offering some of the best encounters with big game in Africa. The country’s professional safari industry guarantees an unforgettable experience for visitors. It’s also worth noting that Tanzania is one of the safest African countries to visit, especially outside urban areas on safari. This makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts who want to minimize the risk of crime.
Most travelers opt for guided safaris that are typically very safe, thanks to knowledgeable guides who know the area like the back of their hand. However, if you choose self-drive options, be cautious of road conditions and avoid driving at night. It’s also essential to verify the credibility of safari guides and operators before booking. You can do this by checking customer reviews or asking for references.
For optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, it’s recommended to visit during the Dry season, which runs from June to October. Following these tips ensures your trip to Tanzania is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
4. Botswana
Traveling in Botswana is pretty safe since it’s got a stable government. In Maun, the place to start exploring the Okavango Delta, crime rates are low. Safaris are led by some of the most experienced guides in Africa, and they make sure you stay safe around animals.
Botswana’s wildlife attractions are in remote places with very few tourists. There’s hardly any corruption, and the tourism stuff is well set up.
The best time to see animals in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park is from May to October when it’s dry. But if you want to catch the zebra migration in the Makgadikgadi Pans, go during the rainy season from December to March.
5. Kenya
Kenya’s safari industry is one of the oldest and most established in Africa, providing visitors with an excellent infrastructure to explore the country conveniently. The country is known to be a safe destination, attracting numerous tourists each year.
However, it is important to maintain vigilance, particularly in cities like Nairobi, even though most tourist areas have low crime rates. Travel warnings are in effect for the northern coast and the Somali border region, but it is relatively easy to avoid these areas.
If you plan to drive yourself, it is best to avoid nighttime driving and opt for a reputable car rental service. It is expected to encounter traffic police who attempt to issue fines on the spot. Still, it is essential to request proper documentation outlining when and where you need to address the charges in court.
The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry season between June and October. Additionally, the captivating wildebeest migration comes to the Masai Mara National Reserve from September to October, offering a prime opportunity to witness this incredible natural spectacle.
6. Uganda
Uganda is a great place to visit, and tourists don’t usually face crime problems. This is because most people spend their time in the countryside, where most attractions are found, rather than in the cities, where crime can be more common, like in many other parts of the world.
When you go to see the mountain gorillas in the forests, experienced guides and sometimes security rangers are there to keep you safe. So, going on treks is trouble-free.
Overall, Uganda is a safe country for travelers. Just like in any destination, you should be cautious, especially during elections or times of protest. It’s a good idea to get advice and stay away from the cities during those times.
For the best time to go, plan your visit during the driest periods, which are from June to August and December to February.
7. Namibia
Namibia is known for its vast deserts, awesome road trips, stargazing safaris, and thrilling adventures like sky diving and quad biking around Swakopmund, the adventure hub. Crime rates are super low all over Namibia, so it’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for the safest e countries in Africa to visit.
Namibia has a tiny population, and most travelers head to places far from the cities. The country is politically stable and with no major conflicts to deter tourists.
You can pretty much visit Namibia any time because the weather stays pretty much the same all year. There’s little rain like in most countries in southern Africa. If you want to see the wildlife in Etosha National Park, the best time is during the dry winter from July to October.
8. Zambia
Zambia is an excellent choice for those seeking a safe and secure African adventure. Although some big cities, such as Lusaka and Livingstone, may have a slightly higher risk of theft, most visitors don’t encounter any troubles. The country is widely recognized as one of the safest destinations to explore in Africa.
The political situation in Zambia is stable, but it’s advisable to steer clear of any protests. On safari, the experienced guides prioritize safety, particularly around animals, ensuring that you have a memorable and secure wildlife experience.
For the ultimate wildlife viewing adventure, plan your trip between May and October. If you plan to visit Victoria Falls, the period between June and September is perfect, with less water and more visibility.
9. Mauritius
Mauritius, a beautiful island in Africa, is a safe haven for travelers. Being one of the wealthiest countries in Africa, Mauritius is generally stable and secure for visitors. It boasts a harmonious blend of different cultures living together peacefully, making it an ideal destination for families. The beach resorts provide a comfortable and relaxing environment for even the most anxious of travelers.
The best time to visit is from May to November when the weather is dry and cool. However, if you don’t mind the hot and humid conditions, December to April is also a great time to visit, though it’s important to note that most rainfall occurs between January and March during cyclone season.
10. Lesotho
Lesotho, a tiny country surrounded by South Africa and mountains, is a great destination for travelers seeking safe places in Africa. Most visitors to Lesotho prefer to hang out in the countryside, as it is pretty chill and friendly, with hardly any crime.
However, if you plan on visiting the cities, it’s better to hike with a group and a guide for safety reasons. In case of any emergency, it’s always better to have assistance nearby.
The best time to visit Lesotho is from October to March, when the weather is warmer and more pleasant due to the wet season.
