When people talk about Africa, they often focus on problems like poverty, conflict, or crime. But Africa is a large and diverse continent with over 50 countries, and many of them are peaceful, safe, and great for tourism, business, or even living. In this article, we’ll look at some of the safest countries in Africa as of 2025. We will use simple language, real facts, and reliable statistics to guide you.
Contents
What Makes a Country Safe?
Safety is not just about crime. It includes:
Low crime rate
Political stability
Good healthcare and infrastructure
Friendly people and culture
Low terrorism or conflict levels
To rank safety, we use data from the Global Peace Index (GPI), World Bank, and travel advisory levels from countries like the USA and UK.
Top 10 Safest/Peaceful Countries in Africa
1. Mauritius 🇲🇺
Global Peace Index Rank (2024): 23rd globally (1st in Africa)
Why it’s safe: Low crime, no internal conflict, strong economy
Fun fact: Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean known for its beaches and peace.
Crime rate: Very low violent crime. Most visitors feel completely safe.
Travel tip: Safe to move around both during the day and night.
External link: Global Peace Index – Mauritius
2. Botswana 🇧🇼
GPI Rank: 43rd globally (2nd in Africa)
Why it’s safe: Stable government, low corruption, peaceful population
Crime rate: Pickpocketing can happen in cities, but violent crime is rare.
Bonus: One of the best safari destinations in Africa.
Botswana is one of the least corrupt countries in Africa, with a strong democracy and respect for the rule of law.
3. Ghana 🇬🇭
GPI Rank: 51st globally
Why it’s safe: Friendly locals, peaceful democracy, stable economy
City safety: Accra and Kumasi are safe cities with active nightlife.
Cultural note: Ghanaians are known for welcoming foreigners, especially African Americans exploring their roots.
Crime note: Petty theft may occur in busy markets, but violent crime is rare for tourists.
4. Namibia 🇳🇦
GPI Rank: 56th globally
Why it’s safe: Peaceful after independence, friendly locals, quiet towns
Interesting feature: Wide, open deserts and clean roads
Health tip: Hospitals in Windhoek (the capital) are well-equipped for travelers.
Namibia is often seen as one of the cleanest and calmest countries in Southern Africa.
5. Seychelles 🇸🇨
GPI Rank: 58th globally
Why it’s safe: Small population, good tourism management, strong laws
Why visit: Beautiful beaches, island resorts, low crime
Local safety: Most crimes are minor and related to tourism, like bag snatching.
Seychelles is ideal for romantic getaways or peaceful vacations but one of the poorest countries in Africa. It’s safe to walk around even late at night.
6. Zambia 🇿🇲
GPI Rank: 59th globally
Why it’s safe: Stable politics, helpful citizens, low terrorism risk
Why visit: Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world
Crime caution: Pickpockets in Lusaka and tourist areas
The country has a reputation for warmth and hospitality. It also has several peaceful towns and national parks.
7. Rwanda 🇷🇼
GPI Rank: 72nd globally
Why it’s safe: Low corruption, strong police force, modern infrastructure
City safety: Kigali is one of the cleanest and safest cities in Africa
Tech progress: Rwanda is also Africa’s rising tech hub
Despite its tragic past, Rwanda has become a model of recovery and safety. Tourists are often surprised by how organized and calm it is.
External link: Visit Rwanda
8. Morocco 🇲🇦
GPI Rank: 74th globally
Why it’s safe: Strong tourism sector, political calm, visible security
City guide: Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fez are well-patrolled
Tourism bonus: Desert tours, mountains, and cultural richness
Morocco ranks highly among African countries for infrastructure and safety. However, be alert for scams in tourist-heavy areas.
See>>> 20 Poorest Countries in Africa
9. Tunisia 🇹🇳
GPI Rank: 78th globally
Why it’s safe: Stable government, improving tourism, fewer terror threats
Best places: Tunis, Sousse, and coastal towns
Caution: Some border areas with Libya may be restricted
Tunisia has bounced back after political unrest and is once again a top destination for beach lovers and history enthusiasts.
10. Lesotho 🇱🇸
GPI Rank: 86th globally
Why it’s safe: Small population, mountain-based villages, low international risk
Fun fact: Entire country lies above 1,000 meters in elevation
Crime note: Local disputes may exist, but foreigners are rarely affected
Lesotho is peaceful and best known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and cool weather.
See>>> Top 10 Most Dangerous Countries in Africa
Other Peaceful Countries Worth Mentioning
The Gambia 🇬🇲 – Called “The Smiling Coast of Africa”; peaceful and friendly.
Tanzania 🇹🇿 – Stable democracy and great wildlife destinations like Serengeti.
Senegal 🇸🇳 – Known for peace, music, and hospitality.
Eswatini (Swaziland) 🇸🇿 – Quiet and low crime, though small.
Safety Tips for Travelers in Africa
Even in safe countries, follow these simple tips:
Register your trip with your embassy.
Avoid isolated areas at night.
Keep valuables out of sight.
Use trusted taxis or apps.
Respect local laws and culture.
Stats Summary Table
| Country | GPI Global Rank (2024) | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Mauritius | 23rd | Safest in Africa |
| Botswana | 43rd | Low corruption, great safaris |
| Ghana | 51st | Friendly locals, rich culture |
| Namibia | 56th | Clean and quiet towns |
| Seychelles | 58th | Island safety, low crime |
| Zambia | 59th | Warm people, tourist friendly |
| Rwanda | 72nd | Clean and tech-savvy |
| Morocco | 74th | Rich culture, good infrastructure |
| Tunisia | 78th | Beautiful Mediterranean beaches |
| Lesotho | 86th | Mountain peace, quiet towns |
Conclusion: Africa Has Peace Too
Africa is not just about news of violence or unrest. As we’ve seen, there are many safe, peaceful, and beautiful countries across the continent where locals live happily, and tourists can visit without fear.
If you’re planning a vacation, business trip, or relocation to Africa, consider these safe destinations. Always check the latest travel advice from official government websites and talk to people who have been there.
Peace in Africa is growing, and the safest countries are leading by example.
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