Best and Safest Countries To Visit in Africa for Safari in 2024 – Safest Countries in Africa
These 5 Best and Safest Countries in Africa for Safari for tourists are based on the latest travel safety advisories from different safari markets in the world.
This list of 5 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit for safaris, includes travel advisory info from the US Department of State, the UK Government, and the Government of Canada, as well as advice from travel safety specialists.
Every month, these safari markets release updates that guide their citizens on where to visit Africa, what precautions they need to take, and what they should do in case of any emergency instances they are involved in.
“But is it safe to travel to Africa in 2022?” We have compiled below a list of countries that our experts have researched and found safe to visit in Africa for your safaris and holidays. They are listed from the top recommended to the least recommended, from numbers 1 to 5.
The thrill of the unknown! It’s what draws most of us to travel. While this is true for many, traveling to a new continent can be a daunting task, especially when safety is a consideration.
Several African Countries have made commendable efforts to dispel harmful stereotypes and promote stability and safety, via the extermination of crime and terrorist activities.
This positive change not only improves the standard of living for locals but also makes these countries more appealing to visitors looking for safari holidays.
Note: The Crime Index below is provided by Numbeo and is based on user-contributed data and perceptions, which may differ from official government statistics.
Which are The Best and Safest Countries to visit in Africa for Safari For tourists – is Africa safe to visit for Safaris?
1. Rwanda
Despite being a small country by size and population, Rwanda has come out strongly in the leadership and growth of the country. It’s one of the best countries recommended to invest in Africa and the best for wildlife safari adventurers and holidaymakers.
Rwanda is ranked among the safest safari countries in Africa, as there is less crime, more unity, it is cleaner, and community involvement in national activities, which makes it more secure.
The panoramic and scenic hilly city of Rwanda, Kigali, is arguably the best city that’s safe and easy to move around as there is a high presence of security personnel all over.
Apart from the beautiful hilly Kigali, you can come face-to-face with chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Gorillas in Volcanos National Park, or spot big game species on the savannah of Akagera National Park.
When is the best time to visit Rwanda?
Rwanda is in the East Africa region and is an all-year-round destination. You can visit any time of the year, but the best seasons are during the dry season when the gorilla tracks are easily manageable to trek through.
Between December to March or July to October can be ideal for a visit to Rwanda to witness the gorillas and extend your safari to Uganda and or Kenya.
2. Botswana
This southern African safari destination is known to be one of the most expensive safari holiday countries in Africa. Botswana is large, but its population, the Tswanas, is small. It’s one of the most politically stable and safest countries in Africa that we recommend you visit in 2022.
The Okavango Delta, the iconic Botswana Destination, offers exclusive and private high-end safari holidays.
Other highlights include tracking black-maned Kalahari lions in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and spotting elusive leopards in the sprawling Kalahari Desert, also home to the San people who’ve retained their ancient hunter-gatherer lifestyle.
Botswana’s Safari industry is highly rated due to the professional safari guides which complement its status as the safest country to visit in Africa. All these beauties and amazing destinations make Botswana one of the best & safest safari countries in Africa to visit.
When is the best time to visit Botswana?
The best time to visit Botswana for your holiday safaris is during the dry months. This is between May and October, visiting the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.
If you want to witness the zebra migration through the Makgadikgadi Pans, then plan to visit between December and March, The Okavango Delta floods as from June to August, and it’s the best time to witness a high concentration of wildlife around the place.
3. Kenya
From its pristine white sandy beaches to the vast plains and savannah grassland, Kenya is arguably the best safari destination in Africa. Kenya offers affordable yet quality and memorable safaris among many other holiday adventures you can take in it.
It’s listed among the best and safest safari countries in Africa for tourists to visit due to its high presence of security and offers better experiences while traversing it. A more desired safari destination for family holidays, photographers, honeymooners, and other adventure seekers.
With its security advancement, the country stays safe from terrorism or political instability. Nairobi being the capital city, noted that it is very secure with its high presence of security personnel all over.
Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Kenya from Laikipia, and Mount Kilimanjaro from the premium park, Amboseli National Park. Known for the 7th wonder of the world, The wildebeest migration, and crossings, it hosts spectacular sightings of these events every year.
When is the best time to visit Kenya?
The best seasons to visit Kenya are during the dry months of the year. During the high season months of January to March and from July to October.
The most preferred season is between August and October, as is when the dry season starts after short rains of June and July, making it a green paradise and wildlife is in plenty. It’s also the best season to witness the great wildebeest migration and crossings of the infested Mara River.
In case of a family holiday, the months are between Jan and March, as it’s a dry season after the short rains of November and December. The season offers crowd-less parks and camps and an exclusive experience too.
4. Tanzania
A beautiful vast and massive country, known for its wildlife and beach holidays, stands to be one of the safest countries to visit in Africa.
Renowned destinations such as the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and many others, make Tanzania a remarkable holiday destination in Africa.
Tanzania is on the list of the best and safest safari countries in Africa for tourists to visit for safari holidays due to its peaceful and friendly culture. We have fantastic safari adventures that await you, to create a memorable time. Indulge with the native hunters and gatherers, the Hadzabe, and the Maasais to complement your holiday.
Tanzania is a relatively expensive destination that offers extended safari adventures, exclusive holidays, and romantic experiences. You can stay in high-end safari camps and lodges that offer you an immersion adventure with nature and the wild.
When is the best time to visit Tanzania?
Tanzania and Kenya share the same climate and seasonal variations making it easy to plan for a combined Kenya and Tanzania Safaris.
If you plan your holiday between Jan to March, and July to October, you are in for an amazing wildlife sighting adventure. You will be sure to witness the wildebeest calving season, the wildebeest migration, and even summit the highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro.
5. Namibia
Another safe place to visit in Africa is Nambia, known for its great governance. Nambia can provide an unforgettable experience and great adventure while being one of the most stable countries in the region.
Going there, make sure to visit Etosha National Park which is inhabited by 114 families of mammals and about 300 species of birds. If you want to explore this beautiful country, the best option is to hire a truck.
Namibia is a country situated in southwest Africa, with an astonishing range of wildlife that includes the largest in the world cheetah population. Listed among the best & safest safari countries in Africa, it’s currently estimated that there are over 3,500 cheetahs that live on the territory of the country.
When is the best time to visit Namibia?
A great time to travel in Namibia. Expect crisp, fresh air, green landscapes, and increasingly dry weather conditions. The peak tourist season in Namibia is in winter – June to September – which coincides with the dry season: there is virtually no rain and no clouds, so you’ll witness stunning night skies.
It’s also easier to spot wildlife during these months as vegetation is sparse and animals are forced to congregate at established waterholes.
Which country has the lowest crime rate, safe, and most peaceful to visit in Africa?
Rwanda has the lowest crime rate in Africa compared to the other African countries, ranking last in the crime index for Africa in the Global Crime Index’s latest report. If you are cautious, Rwanda could be the best place for your next safari as it’s among the Safest Safari Countries in Africa For Tourists.
Despite Rwanda’s impressively low crime rates, for several years running, The Global Peace Index Report has placed Mauritius as the most peaceful country on the African continent. Rwanda is top of the list as the safest African country for safari.
Among our best listed best & safest safari countries in Africa, we ranked Rwanda as the best but overall, Mauritius is ranked as the 28th safest country in the world according to the 2022/2023 GPI report.
Note: The Crime Index of the safest African safari countries below is provided by Numbeo and is based on user-contributed data and perceptions, which may differ from official government statistics.
| Rank | Country | Safety index |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Rwanda | 73.2 |
| 2. | Ghana | 56.1 |
| 3. | Tunisia | 55.6 |
| 4. | Sudan | 54.6 |
| 5. | Zambia | 53.6 |
| 6. | Morocco | 53.3 |
| 7. | Egypt | 52.7 |
| 8. | Mauritius | 52.2 |
| 9. | Ethiopia | 49.2 |
| 10. | Botswana | 47.8 |
Which African Country is Safest for Tourists?
As per the Global Peace Index, Mauritius tops the list as the safest African country. Its mix of stable government, low crime rate, and island beauty make it particularly appealing.
If you are looking for a top destination to visit for a wildlife safari, then Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda are some of the most known and safest countries for tourists visiting for wildlife safaris.
The safest countries in Africa for female travelers
Cultural norms in African countries can affect women differently from men. The safest countries in Africa for female travelers to visit are Mauritius, a peaceful country where Buddhist culture is prevalent, as well as Botswana, Gambia, and Rwanda. No matter which African country you are in, female travelers may consider dressing conservatively and should conform to local behavioral standards.
The safest countries in Africa for solo travelers
The safest countries in Africa for solo travelers are Seychelles, Botswana, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. In these nations, tourism is a fast-developing industry, stable government policies are in place and locals are generally friendly and helpful to visitors.
What Makes a Country a Popular Tourist Destination in Africa?
A combination of safety, unique cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, beautiful landscapes, and hospitable people make a country a popular tourist destination in Africa. The safest African safari tours and holidays one can take depend on where one wants to visit.
Among all, the major ones are safety and ease of movement in various locations in a country. The rest of the factors follow up making an experience in Africa memorable.
Important Notes and contacts in case of emergencies while on Safari in Kenya
In case of any emergencies that you might encounter on your stay in Nairobi, please use this avenue to get help
- American Citizen Services Unit
- U.S. Citizens with emergencies, please call: 254-20-3636451
- U.S. Citizens with emergencies after office hours, call: 254-20-3636000
- Email: Kenya_ACS@state.gov
- If you’re a British national traveling in Nairobi or anywhere else in Kenya with an emergency, call the British High Commission in Nairobi at +254 (0) 20 2873000 or +254 (0) 20 2844000.
- Call Kenyan Police on 999 or Amref International in case of emergency evacuations at www.flydoc.org Emergency Number: +254 20 699 2299
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