Top 10 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit in 2026

Planning a safari and wondering which African countries will be safest to visit in 2026?

The latest Global Peace Index 2025 gives us a clear benchmark, and combined with official government advisories and our own on-the-ground experience, this guide reveals the safest African countries for safari. In addition to this easy comparison guide, we've also added some practical tips for staying safe and getting the most value from your trip.

Top 10 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit in 2026

Below, we explore the 2025 rankings of the Top 10 Safest African Countries for Safari, ranked by their GPI scores, our personal experience, and safari quality. It 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.

Note: When looking for up-to-date and reliable travel advice, it's best to talk to an expert before deciding where and when to go. Contact African Budget Safaris for up-to-date guidance from our knowledgeable African travel experts.

1. The Safest African Country: Mauritius

• Ranked #26 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (down from #22 in 2024)

Mauritius is the safest country in Africa to visit in 2026. This peaceful African country outranks the United Kingdom (30), Italy (33), and Sweden (35).

The gobsmackingly beautiful Indian Ocean island of Mauritius is very safe to visit. It is not a budget African travel destination or an African safari destination, so we at African Budget Safaris don't feature any trips there.

The island does, however, boast rich bird and marine life, from whales and dolphins to Mauritian kestrels, as well as giant tortoises.

General Travel Safety in Mauritius

• Crime is mostly non-violent theft in tourist areas. Stay aware of your belongings
• Normal security precautions are usually enough (per Canadian gov)
• Avoid isolated beaches after dark, stick to busy, well-lit areas
• Book reputable day excursions with licensed operators
• Mauritius consistently ranks as the most peaceful country in Africa, with very low crime and strong infrastructure.
• The Canadian government only advises 'normal security precautions'.
• The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice of 25 October 2025is that most crime in Mauritius is non-violent (petty theft, burglaries) and advises caution in tourist areas. 

2. Botswana

• Botswana is one of Africa’s safest safari countries, with stable governance and world-class wildlife in the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and the Central Kalahari National Park. Ranked #43 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (down 2 places from 2024)

Botswana is the second safest country in Africa to visit in 2026, outranking Greece (45) in the Global Peace Index Report of 2025.

Botswana remains Africa’s gold standard for both peace and conservation. With a GPI score of around 1.74, it’s not only politically stable but also globally admired for its low corruption and well-managed tourism policies that prioritise quality over quantity. In addition to being ranked as the safest African country for safaris, Botswana is also one of the most rewarding safari destinations. Safari highlights in Botswana include the incredible Okavango Delta, Chobe, and the Central Kalahari National Park.

To learn more about Botswana and its incredible safari offerings, read our comprehensive Botswana Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Botswana

• Guided safari circuits are the safest way to move between parks in Botswana
• Petty crime can occur in cities. Keep valuables secure and avoid wandering at night
• Use registered taxis/transfers in Gaborone and Francistown
• Remote areas are best explored with guides who know the terrain
• Botswana is rated Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution by the US State Department. The advisory highlights “crimes of opportunity” among risks.
• The UK Government is less optimistic and warns that although tourists are rarely attacked, petty and serious crime is on the rise in urban areas such as Gaborone and Francistown.

Although it is not the cheapest country for African safari tours, it is also not the most expensive. There are plenty of fantastic, budget-friendly Botswana safaris to choose from, with over 150 Botswana safaris on African Budget Safaris alone.

3. Namibia

• Namibia is politically stable, low in crime outside cities, and offers vast, desert landscapes with incredible wildlife. This is one of Africa’s easiest and most affordable safari destinations for first-time solo travellers. Ranked #50 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (up 4 places from 2024)

Namibia is one of the most politically stable and safe countries to visit in Africa. It is one of the few countries to see an improvement in its GPI rating this year, outranking Costa Rica and replacing Madagascar as the third safest country in Africa.

Namibia safaris are defined by their vastness - endless horizons, desert dunes, and open skies. With one of the lowest population densities on Earth and an efficient tourism infrastructure, it’s a safari paradise. Highlights include Etosha National Park, where you can watch rhinos and elephants gather at floodlit waterholes, and the Namib Desert, home to oryx, ostrich, and desert-adapted elephants. Namibia also leads in conservation, with over 40% of its land under protection or community conservancy programs.

Recommended by solo female travellers, Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit on your own. Avoiding dehydration and desert critters is generally more of a concern in this arid southern African country than crime. Get to know Namibia by reading our comprehensive Namibia Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Namibia

• Most crime is petty theft in Windhoek; stay alert in urban areas
• Dehydration and heat exposure are bigger risks than crime on safari
• Avoid leaving valuables in parked cars (car break-ins do occur)
• Guided desert excursions and safari tours are safer than self-driving
• The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises caution regarding theft and vehicle crime in major towns (eg, capital Windhoek) 
• Generally, one of the safest African countries to visit, there is some crime, which is mostly a concern in Windhoek, largely that of non-violent petty crime.

Browse our excellent-value Budget Namibia Safari Tours.

4. Madagascar

• Madagascar is safe for travellers who follow advice from local guides, offering unique wildlife and a truly off-the-beaten-track adventure. Ranked #59 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (down 6 places from 2024)

The island of Madagascar dipped in the safety ranks in 2025 after an increase in 2024. Since the report was published, Madagascar experienced political unrest in September/October 2025, but the UK Foreign Office has since removed its warnings on travel.

This unique and largely undeveloped island is one of the most off-the-beaten-track places to visit. It is home to unique wildlife and fascinating landscapes. High in biodiversity and largely undeveloped, Madagascar is an ideal destination for adventurous travellers and nature lovers. 

Read our Madagascar Travel Guide to find out more about this wonderful African island destination.

General Travel Safety in Madagascar

• While Madagascar is a relatively safe African country to visit, you need to be aware of the risks and follow travel advice.
• Crime, including robbery, can occur in cities and beach areas — stay vigilant
• Avoid large gatherings, especially during election or protest periods
• Do not travel remote roads after dark
• Book guided itineraries that are safer and have more reliable logistics
• The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice (updated 21 October 2025) states that the UK government no longer advises against all but essential travel to Madagascar. However, they note political unrest, protests, and looting in late September/early October 2025, and say the situation “appears to be calm,” but travellers should follow local advice and avoid large gatherings. They also highlight that crime is commonplace (street robberies, violent assaults, even in daytime/beach areas) and that remote roads and areas carry elevated risk. 
• It is best to visit Madagascar with a trusted tour company or registered guide (ask our travel consultants for free advice) to mitigate risk. The Broke Backpacker confirms, "Many people would recommend that you only travel the island with an organised tour company or hire a guide to take you around".

Consider African Budget Safaris Guided Madagascar Tours.

5. Zambia

• Zambia is a safe and friendly safari destination known for authentic, uncrowded wilderness and iconic experiences, such as walking safaris in South Luangwa. Ranked #64 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (down 9  places from 2024)

Peaceful, authentic, and filled with wilderness charm, Zambia ranks among Africa’s top safari destinations for travellers seeking a less commercial experience. The country pioneered walking safaris in the legendary South Luangwa National Park, where guides lead small groups on foot to track lions, elephants, and leopards. The Lower Zambezi offers thrilling canoe safaris, while Kafue National Park, one of Africa’s largest, remains beautifully remote. Near Livingstone, travellers can explore both sides of magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Read more in our comprehensive Zambia Travel Guide. 

General Travel Safety in Zambia

• Zambia’s political environment is generally stable, with a reputation for friendly people and low levels of violent crime.
• Petty theft happens in cities. Keep valuables secure and stay aware in busy areas
• Avoid driving after dark. Road travel at night is dangerous (poor roads + animals)
• Travel with a reputable operator to mitigate the risks of travelling to remote locations
• With a desperately poor population, Zambia's crime is mostly petty theft concentrated around urban centres. By travelling on a guided tour to one of Zambia's safari hotspots, like South Luangwa or Kafue, the risks of being a victim of crime are very low.
• The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises that road travel outside main towns at night is particularly dangerous due to poor road conditions and stray animals, etc.
• The US State Department cautions that medical and emergency facilities may be limited in remote areas. 

Browse our excellent value budget Zambia Safari Tours.

6. Malawi

• Malawi is peaceful, warm-hearted, and improving fast in conservation. They offer Big 5 parks plus relaxed beach time on Lake Malawi. Ranked #71 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (up 14 places from 2024)

Malawi has quietly emerged as one of Africa’s most peaceful nations. It saw one of the biggest improvements in the global ranking of the African Safari destinations, rising 14 places from 2024. 

Fondly called the "Warm Heart in Africa", Malawi is known for its friendly people and for improving its wildlife reserves. Following successful rewilding efforts, Majete and Liwonde National Parks now host the Big Five once again, thanks to conservation partnerships with African Parks. For a more relaxed safari, Lake Malawi adds a beach-and-bush combination unmatched elsewhere in Africa. Here, you can snorkel among the lake's colourful cichlid fish after a morning game drive.

Read more in our comprehensive Malawi Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Malawi

• Malawi is, for the most part, a safe African country to visit
• Petty crime can occur in Lilongwe and other towns. Stay alert in urban centres
• Avoid demonstrations, stay away from crowds if unrest does occur
• Take care with valuables at bus stations and markets
• Join  a guided tour to stay in the safest regions and lodges
• The UK Government updated its travel advice for Malawi on 7 Oct 2025, highlighting risks of crime (kidnappings, assaults on tourists) and demonstrations/unrest. They advise avoiding large crowds and staying vigilant, especially at night. 
• The US State Department advisory sits at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.  
• You can prioritise your safety by joining a package tour with experienced guides who know the country.

Browse our excellent-value Budget Malawi Safari Tours

7. Tanzania

• Tanzania delivers the classic East African safari experience, from the Serengeti to Zanzibar. Travellers need to stay updated due to recent political tensions. Ranked #73 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (down 8 places from 2024)

Tanzania lost some of the ground it had made in the Global Peace Index rankings, dropping after consistent increases in rank since 2022. 

Tanzania offers the quintessential African safari experience: the Serengeti’s Great Migration, alongside wildlife-dense Ngorongoro Crater, the remote expanses of Ruaha and Selous, and Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro - all supported by a well-established tourism industry.  Exotic Zanzibar Island, just off the coast, makes for an idyllic beach getaway to complement your safari.

Read more in our comprehensive Tanzania Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Tanzania

• Since the release of this year's Global Peace Index report, Tanzania's national elections of 29 October 2025 have introduced an elevated risk of disruptions, particularly in urban centres, though popular tourism zones remain largely unaffected and continue to welcome visitors. Travellers should remain vigilant, avoid political gatherings, monitor local conditions, and liaise with reputable tour operators for current updates.
• US and UK advisories recommend extra caution in cities. 
• There are also targeted risks to LGBTQ+ individuals
• Road conditions can be challenging in remote regions
• Joining a safari tour or package deal where you are guided by an expert helps to mitigate even the slightest chance of misfortune and is a great way to prioritize your safety.

Most major tourist hubs - such as the northern safari circuit (Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park), climbing routes up Mount Kilimanjaro, and beach-resort areas in Zanzibar- are reported to be continuing operations normally, with no major disruptions reported to accommodation, parks, or safari services. 

Browse our excellent-value Budget Tanzania Safari Tours

8. Rwanda

• Rwanda is clean, safe, and well-managed, offering secure mountain gorilla trekking and excellent Big 5 safaris in Akagera. Ranked #91 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (up 12 places from 2024)

Rwanda’s transformation over the past three decades has been remarkable. Today, it’s one of Africa’s safest, cleanest, and most forward-looking nations, earning high marks for governance and security. 2025 saw it jump 12 places in the global peace ranking.

Safari enthusiasts come mainly for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Travel Tip: Gorilla permits are limited and costly—book months in advance and prepare for steep but rewarding forest hikes. Akagera National Park also offers classic Big Five safaris, and Nyungwe Forest provides rare chimpanzee encounters. Capital city, Kigali, is a vibrant African city, and its Rwanda Genocide museum is heartbreaking, but a must-see.

Read more in our comprehensive Rwanda Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Rwanda

• Why Rwanda is generally safe: Strict law enforcement, low corruption, and effective tourism management.
• Avoid areas near the DRC border — risks rise within 10 km of conflict zones
• Follow the government and guide instructions on trekking routes
• Book gorilla permits and guided treks well in advance
• While security risks exist, particularly near conflict-adjacent borders, the trekking operations for habituated gorilla families are described as safe, with structured guidelines for visitors and minimal incidents reported
• Booking a safari with professional guides and local knowledge not only enhances your experience but also minimizes potential risks, making safety a top priority. 

Browse our excellent-value Budget Rwanda Safari Tours.

9. Eswatini

• Eswatini is peaceful, culturally rich, and ideal for gentle, relaxed safaris in national parks like Hlane and Mkhaya — perfect for families and short trips. Ranked #99 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (down 5 places from 2024)

This small, landlocked kingdom between South Africa and Mozambique is often overlooked, but Eswatini’s charm lies in its peace, accessibility, and cultural authenticity. Its national parks, like Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve, offer the chance to see rhinos, giraffes, and elephants in a relaxed setting.

With friendly locals and a strong cultural heritage, Eswatini provides a gentle introduction to Africa’s safari world—ideal for families or those seeking shorter trips. Read more in our comprehensive Eswatini Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Eswatini

• Why it’s safe: Eswatini is consistently peaceful, with low violent crime and a well-managed tourism framework.
• Petty theft can occur in towns, and you should avoid walking alone at night
• The UK government warns that protests can flare unexpectedly; avoid demonstrations
• Roads can be of poor quality with potholes and animals. Day travel is safer than night driving
• LGBTQ+ visitors should avoid public displays of affection
• Eswatini is rated Level 2 – “Exercise Increased Caution” due to crime and civil unrest by the US State Department.
• Opting for a safari package offered by experienced companies helps safeguard against unforeseen incidents and is an excellent way to focus on your personal safety. 

Browse our excellent-value Budget Eswatini Safari Tours

10. Zimbabwe

• Zimbabwe offers superb, crowd-free safaris and spectacular highlights like Victoria Falls and Mana Pools, and is safest when travelling with reputable operators. Ranked #114 on the 2025 Global Peace Index (up 8 places from 2024)

Zimbabwe moved up eight places compared to the previous year, suggesting a modest improvement in the overall peace and security environment. However, the country still faces significant challenges in terms of crime, economic fragility, and infrastructure.  

Zimbabwe offers some of Southern Africa’s most uncrowded safari destinations with an authentic wilderness feel. Magnificent Victoria Falls, on the Zambezi River, remains an iconic highlight. Hwange National Park, the country’s largest reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Mana Pools provide uncrowded safari experiences where you can witness massive elephant herds and a full complement of predators in a true bush setting. The Great Zimbabwe ruins and the Matopos hills are excellent additions to your itinerary.

Read more in our comprehensive Zimbabwe Travel Guide.

General Travel Safety in Zimbabwe

• While Zimbabwe continues to face national-level risks (economy, infrastructure, and general security), its safari and tourism zones are comparatively insulated. If you choose established parks, reputable lodges, and guided circuits, the experience can be excellent and rewarding. 
• UK travel advice highlights moderate crime levels, risk of being caught up in political unrest or demonstrations, unreliable infrastructure (power outages, network issues), and advises extra caution, especially in urban centres and when travelling at night. 
• This is corroborated by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which advises: “Exercise a high degree of caution” in Zimbabwe. The reasons include the threat of crime, potential civil unrest, and infrastructure & service limitations. 
• Participating in a guided safari tour or package ensures you benefit from expert knowledge, reducing any risk of mishaps while keeping safety at the forefront. 

Browse our excellent-value Budget Zimbabwe Safari Tours

What's the Global Peace Index?

The Global Peace Index (GPI) is an internationally recognized report published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP).

This benchmark study measures and ranks national peace levels across 163 countries. The report thus covers about 99.7% of the world's population (according to World Population Review).

For more details, see the 2025 Global Peace Index Report produced by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP).

This annual report presents a comprehensive data-driven analysis of trends in peace, its economic value, and an analysis of how to develop more peaceful societies.  It uses 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to measure the state of peace across three domains: the level of Societal Safety and Security; the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict; and the degree of Militarisation.

General Findings in 2025:

• In the past year, peacefulness improved slightly on average on the Safety and Security domain, but deteriorated on both the Ongoing Conflict and Militarisation domains. 
• 74 countries recorded an improvement in their peace index, while 87 countries recorded a deterioration in peacefulness. 
• The average level of a country's peacefulness deteriorated by 0.36 per cent in the 2025 Global Peace Index. This is the sixth consecutive year that global peacefulness has deteriorated.
• Despite an overall deterioration in peacefulness globally, some indicators recorded noticeable improvement. The perceptions of criminality and homicide rate indicators both continued their long-running trend of improvement.

For Comparison: How African Countries Rank Against Global Peers

Key Takeaways:

• Mauritius ranks higher than the UK, France, and Italy, putting it in the top 30 worldwide.
• Botswana and Namibia outperform major tourism destinations like Thailand, Greece, and South Korea in peace scores.
• Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania sit around the global average, comparable to Argentina or Croatia.
• Even South Africa, often portrayed as unsafe, ranks above the U.S. on the 2025 GPI — a reminder that perceptions don’t always match data.

Other Safe African Countries to Visit in 2026

In addition to the 10 safest African Safari countries (above), we consider the following safe countries to visit in Africa, with several caveats. 

If you follow travel advice and avoid certain areas and behaviours, you should have a trouble-free Africa travel experience, as millions of other travellers do each year:

• Uganda (#113 – up 12 from 2024): Uganda is a bucket-list destination for primate encounters, with safe, well-managed gorilla and chimp trekking, just avoid the border zones.
• Lesotho (#119 – up 4 from 2024): Lesotho offers rugged mountain landscapes and traditional culture within a generally peaceful, low-crime setting. It's ideal for adventurous travellers who like hiking and nature.
• South Africa (#124 – up 3 from 2024): South Africa is extremely rewarding for wildlife and scenery, but requires smart planning. Go guided, avoid risky areas, and you’ll have a brilliant safari.
• Kenya (#127 – down 1 from 2024): Kenya is the birthplace of modern safari and offers world-class wildlife, but visitors should use extra caution in city centres and travel with reputable guides.
• Ethiopia (#138 – up 5 from 2024): These Ethiopia Tours reward travellers with ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and rare wildlife, but regional conflict areas mean you must choose routes and operators carefully.

These countries are some of our favourite safari destinations. We have sent our valued clients on hundreds of successful African safari tours to all the countries listed above, and have helped many travellers visit them safely since African Budget Safaris started in 2007. 

For more information and advice about visiting these African countries safely, talk to an African travel expert.

Travel Safety on your African Safari

Millions of people visit Africa safely every year.

It offers amazing and diverse safari travel destinations that promise unique wildlife experiences found nowhere else in the world. 

When going on safari in Africa, visitors need to be aware of and prepared for the risks posed by potentially dangerous animals in game reserves and specific diseases in certain areas.

• To help ensure your safety on African safaris, we have created a comprehensive guide to Safety on African Safaris.
• For health-related safety, consult our Complete Safari Medical Guide.
• Travel insurance is mandatory on all our African safari tours to ensure visitors stay safe. Check out our Travel Insurance for Africa page for more information and tips.

Planning a Safe Safari in Africa

To get the most out of your trip to Africa, travel with a reputable tour operator and follow their safety recommendations.

Being an independent, Cape Town–based agency means we’re in tune with Africa’s ever-changing rhythms. From local weather patterns to regional developments that might affect travel. African Budget Safari's autonomy allows us to hand-pick the safest and most reliable tours without bias. We work with professionals who know their region and ensure that traveller safety is their top priority. Every safari is chosen for its value, experience, and ability to deliver Africa in its raw, unforgettable glory. 

For help planning your travels to Africa in 2026 and beyond, talk to a friendly travel advisor specializing in affordable African travel.

Andrew Hofmeyr Senior Safari Blogger

Andrew Hofmeyr is a seasoned travel writer with over 10 years of experience. He’s travelled widely in Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe, with favourites including Bali, the Drakensberg, and the Amatole Mountains. His writing covers conservation, wildlife, and travel advice, with work featured in Wild Magazine and the Kingdom of Eswatini Tourism. He also conducts insightful interviews with global experts.

Andrew's Profile