There are several myths associated with traveling in Africa. People blame harsh climate and civil unrest. However, Africa has the second-fastest-growing Tourism Industry in the world. The 10 Safest Countries in Africa will surely substantiate the reason.
In 2018, 67 million people visited Africa. Each year there is growth in the tourism sector. There is exceptional development in the quality of hotels, airlines, travel agencies, and other tourist services.
The safest countries in Africa are dependant on tourism for their economic growth. Recent changes in political policies have helped in increased investment in this sector. Economists firmly believe, by 2030, the African tourism industry will cross the $250 billion mark.
The Popularity of African Tourism
Egypt, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Tunisia, and several other African countries depend on tourism for their economic growth. According to the UNWTO, African countries are constantly developing tourist attractions to provide world-class amenities to travelers. It advocates Brand Africa, an initiative to develop more tourist-friendly destinations. It is an effort to make Africa a pioneer in tourism.
Wildlife, beaches, historical monuments like the pyramids in Egypt, and cost-effectiveness are prime reasons for African Tourism’s popularity. Natural beauties abound in Africa. Congo rainforests, Mau forest, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and Budongo National Reserve are some of Africa’s floral ornaments.
Some Popular African Tourist Attractions Are:
1. Wildlife
Africa is the biggest congregation of wild animals on earth. African elephant, cheetah, giraffe, hyena, lion, zebra, leopards, and several other wild animals co-exist with the human population. They are scattered in forests as well as in the plains.
Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Kruger Park Safari attract millions of tourists to witness Africa’s versatile fauna. The beautiful landscapes and dense forests have been developed for tourism purposes. Africa is the true safari destination as more than 30 million tourists visit annually.
2. Beaches
Seychelles is known as a nation of tropical islands with beautiful beaches and coral reefs. Tanzania’s Mainland Coast and Island and Mozambique have some exotic beaches for swimming, diving, kayaking, and snorkeling. Most of the beautiful beaches are in Mauritius, which is one of the safest countries in Africa.
3. Monuments
Some remarkable monuments of the African continent are:
- Africa is the home of The Pyramids of Giza, the last surviving original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Olduvai Gorge is a paleoanthropological site near Serengeti that preserves the fossil remains of human ancestors.
- Leptis Magna in Libya exhibits Roman culture and architecture.
- Exhibiting the architecture and culture of the kingdom of Kush, Meroe is another tourist attraction near the Nile River.
- Timbuktu in Mali is significant for its religious importance in the sub-Saharan region.
4. Tribes
Africa is truly a land of geographical diversity. It is the land of the world’s largest desert, the Sahara, and also the longest river, the Nile. Hot and warm climates prevail in this continent, even while tribes like Maasai, Zulu, Himba, and Samburu maintain the traditional culture of Africa.
They are known for endurance. They maintain harmony with the wildlife. They worship the forests and respect their inhabitants.
African tradition is seen in sculpture, music, folk dances, and art. Food, dressing, taboos, greeting habits, hospitality, and folklores are Africa’s identities that attract tourists across the world. The list of the top safest countries in Africa will eventually bust all the myths about safety concerns.
Also, read 15 Awesome African Beaches To Visit.
Come and let’s see the Top 10 Safest Countries In Africa to Visit.
1. Rwanda
Capital City: Kigali
Nearest Airport: Kigali International Airport
Rwanda is unarguably one of the safest countries in Africa to visit. It is safe enough for solo traveling. This country in eastern Africa shares its borders with Uganda, Burundi, and Congo.
It has a reliable bus network system that connects major cities and neighboring countries. Crime is comparatively low, and people are friendly and hospitable. Women tourists are advised to dress modestly, respecting local culture.
Violent crimes against travelers are rare. Drug possession & trafficking, and drunk driving are punishable offenses. The Rwandan government has taken steps to check malaria and other health issues. It also has some LGBTQ+ hangout spots for the community. Indeed, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa for solo traveling.
2. Botswana
Capital City: Gaborone
Nearest Airport: Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, Gaborone
Botswana is a landlocked country in southern Africa. It shares its borders with Zambia, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Botswana offers the best African wildlife expeditions with quad biking, safari, fishing, and mokoro rides.
It is one of the safest countries in Africa as tourists might encounter only petty crime. As most of the tourist attractions are near the capital Gaborone, security is not a major issue. Botswana’s tourist capital, Maun, known as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, also reports very low crime.
Women travelers are also safe in Botswana as people are friendly and respectful. Drug use and trafficking is also a punishable crime. It is advised to dress modestly while visiting the rural areas.
3. Mauritius
Capital City: Port Louis
Nearest Airport: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport
Mauritius is a tropical island country that attracts tourists across the globe for its exotic beaches. You can also explore hiking, eco-treks, birding, diving, and snorkeling across its mountains, forests, and seas. It is one of the safest countries in Africa.
It is a perfect destination for newlyweds and couples. Pickpockets and transport risks are comparatively low. Violent crime is extremely rare in Mauritius.
It is one of the safest countries in Africa for women travelers, even at night. However, it is advised to be conscious after dark. November to May is the cyclone season in Mauritius, so you must be aware of any natural risk. Overall, Mauritius is a safe destination for travelers with very few risks.
4. Ethiopia
Capital City: Addis Ababa
Nearest Airport: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
Ethiopia preserves its ancient culture with archaeological findings dating back to 3 million years. Simien Mountains, Blue Nile Falls, Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela, Babile Elephant Sanctuary, and The Holy City of Harar are some exquisite tourist attractions.
Ethiopia has witnessed several civil wars in the past for its dynastic politics. Today, it has overcome the gloom and become a democratic country. It is one of the safest countries for tourists.
Violent crime is rare in Ethiopia so that makes it one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. Even petty crime drops when you visit the rural areas. You can also enjoy the nightlife at local bars and music concerts which are quite safe for women.
5. Senegal
Capital City: Dakar
Nearest Airport: Blaise Diagne International Airport
Senegal came into the limelight when it defeated France in the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Formerly a French colony, Senegal is now a presidential democratic republic. Besides the Football frenzy, it is loved for exquisite cuisine, beautiful monuments, islands, and divergent wildlife.
Lake Retba, Saint Louis, and Saly Beaches are some tourist destinations where you can enjoy sightseeing, boating, fishing, swimming, and beach activities. Senegal is one of the safest countries in Africa for travelers— especially for women travelers. People are generous and friendly as they know the value of tourism.
Women travelers enjoy liberty here as there is no restriction on clothing. It has a very low rate of street crime. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon. This vibrant country in West Africa has a liberal outlook.
6. Morocco
Capital City: Rabat
Nearest Airport: Rabat–Salé Airport
Morocco is also a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a multi-party system. This North African country shares its borders with Algeria and the Atlantic Ocean. It consists of a multi-cultural society with Berber, Arabian and European influences. It is the best shopping destination where you can find jewelry and metal lanterns.
Morocco is one of the safest countries in Africa, and super safe for tourists. Solo women travelers are also quite safe here as they are unlikely to face any violent crime. You can enjoy the beautiful ceramics, paintings, and pottery of Morocco without any major safety concerns.
7. South Africa
Capital (s): Cape Town, Pretoria, and Bloemfontein.
Nearest Airport: O R Tambo International Airport, Gauteng.
Since the end of Apartheid in 1994, South Africa has been a parliamentary representative democratic republic. However, with some socio-economic problems like unemployment, poverty, and inadequate education, crime is a major issue. However, the risk of violent crime against foreign tourists is very low. The South African Authorities pay special attention to tourists’ safety, making it one of the safest countries in Africa. A guided tour is the best choice for traveling in South Africa.
Kruger National Park is a prime attraction of South Africa. Safari tours to the South African wildlife brings you closer to elephants, giraffe, lions, zebra, and wildebeest. Cape of Good Hope is one of the richest world’s floral kingdoms in the Indian Ocean. South Africa is the most loved international tourist attraction for its forests, beaches, lagoons, and hospitality. It is only the first African country to have hosted the FIFA World Cup.
8. Mozambique
Capital City: Maputo
Nearest Airport: Maputo International Airport
The crime rate is comparatively low in Mozambique. It is situated in East Africa, sharing its borders with Zimbabwe, Swaziland, and South Africa. Guided tours are safe, and self-drive tours need a proper understanding of local guidelines.
People enjoy the exotic Mozambique beaches without too much worry. You can observe the colonial ruins of Portuguese rule. Safari tours offer jaw-dropping views of the wilderness. It is indeed one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists.
9. Malawi
Capital City: Lilongwe
Nearest Airport: Lilongwe International Airport
Malawi is well known for rural tourism. People still live in traditional houses and are mostly engaged in agriculture. Lakes fall, and wildlife creates the best traveling experience for you. Lake Malawi National Park, Lilongwe Wildlife Center, La Caverna Art Gallery, Kumbali Cultural Village, and Mount Mulanje are exotic tourist attractions.
Malawi is one of the safest countries in Africa for its friendly and ever-smiling people. Malawi means Warm Heart of Africa in the native language, and the people justify it. Petty crime is reported in Malawi, however, the judiciary is highly effective. These features include it among the safest countries in Africa.
10. Zambia
Capital City: Lusaka
Nearest Airport: Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Lusaka
Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa known for its diverse wildlife and water resources. It is a democracy with a multi-party system. World-famous Victoria Falls with Lake Kariba, Zambezi River, Sioma Ngwezi National Park, and several monuments are major tourist attractions.
Zambia is a peaceful country. Local people are friendly and welcoming. Drug use and trafficking are punishable. No violent crime is reported against foreign tourists. It is one of the safest countries in Africa for women travelers. Modest dressing and friendly interaction are advised for women travelers.
Also, read 7 Best African Countries to Visit.
Petty crime is a universal phenomenon. Most of the prosperous countries also have cases of pickpocketing and snatching. It would be best if you used common sense to be safe in any country of the world. If you apply your common sense in these safest countries in Africa, your journey will be hassle-free and memorable. African people are known for their generosity and friendly nature. These safest countries in Africa have the most hospitable and generous people.
Last Updated on by Steffy Michael
