The Safest Countries in Africa 2026 (RANKED)

African countries are diverse, offering travellers a variety of stunning scenery, from golden beaches to snowy mountains, thick jungle to vast deserts. There are plenty of things to see and do, in bustling, vibrant cities and quieter, calmer rural areas.

For many people, safety can be a concern when travelling to Africa. Some countries have high crime rates, with a reputation for targeting tourists. At the same time, many countries in Africa are noted for their friendly and welcoming approach to foreigners.  

Using the latest  Global Peace Index (GPI), we looked into the safest and least safe countries that feature on the ranking, taking into account their political situation and risk of crime for travellers.

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Mauritius is the safest country in Africa with a GPI score of 1.586 and a world ranking of 26. The island nation benefits from low crime rates, strong social institutions, and stable governance. Its secure environment makes it an attractive destination for travellers and expatriates seeking a safe place to live, work, or explore. The combination of political stability and community cohesion contributes to a generally peaceful daily life across the country.

Botswana, renowned for its stability and security, is the second safest country in Africa with a GPI score of 1.743 and world ranking of 43. The country has a long-standing democratic tradition and low levels of violent crime, making it one of Southern Africa’s most reliable and peaceful nations. Visitors and residents benefit from an environment where rule of law is respected and wildlife tourism thrives alongside safe communities.

Namibia has a GPI score of 1.789 and world ranking of 50, placing it firmly among Africa’s safest countries. Its low population density, strong institutions, and limited internal conflict contribute to a secure living environment. While urban centres experience some petty crime, overall, the country offers a safe and peaceful setting for travellers and expatriates.

The Gambia ranks as the fourth safest country in Africa, with a GPI score of 1.855 and a world ranking of 55. Known for its peaceful communities and stable political environment, it benefits from low levels of violent crime compared with many other nations in the region. The country’s strong social cohesion, combined with a welcoming culture and relatively small size, makes it easy for visitors and residents to feel secure. Tourism, particularly along the country’s rivers and beaches, continues to flourish in this stable and friendly environment.

Sierra Leone has made significant strides in building a peaceful society, becoming the fifth safest country in Africa in 2026 with a GPI score of 1.887 and world rank of 57. Community-driven peace initiatives and security reforms have reduced violence and improved social cohesion. The country’s enhanced safety profile supports growing tourism and investment, particularly in regions that have seen notable improvements in stability.

Sudan is the least safe country in Africa. This country, located in East Africa, ranks 162nd in the world peace index and has a GPI score of 3.327. Only one other country in the world, Yemen, ranks below Sudan in terms of safety.

The UK Government, as well as many other governments, advises against travel to Sudan to avoid harm. There was a pollical coup in Sudan in 2021, which caused a political crisis that is still ongoing. Efforts are being made to resolve the situation, but stability has not yet been achieved.

Due to the political situation, Sudan is at risk of political demonstrations and also terrorist attacks. There is also a risk of muggings and kidnappings, as well as more petty crime such as pickpocketing.

Sudan is also highly dangerous for members of the LGBTQ+ community. People can face discrimination and attacks and could be arrested and even face execution by the government.

South Sudan is the fourth least safe country in Africa and is one of the least safe countries in the world, with only Sudan and Yemen below it. It ranks 161st in the world and has a GPI score of 3.324.

Many governments advise not to travel to South Sudan. The political situation is volatile, and armed fighting is a regular occurrence. Terrorist attacks are also common, with public areas such as hotels and government buildings being targeted. Criminals are often armed and kidnapping, home invasions, armed robbery and carjacking are all common.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is the third least safe country in Africa and the 158th safest country in the world, with only Ukraine, Afghanistan, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen below it. Located in Central Africa, it has a GPI score of 3.166.

There are some areas of the DRC where it is advised not to travel at all, including within 50km of the border with the Central African Republic. There are other areas where caution is advised.

The country has seen a lot of political unrest and the situation is volatile. Demonstrations have been known to break out with no notice and can turn violent. There is armed conflict between the government forces and opposing groups in the east, with the area currently run by military administration.  

Crime rates in the DRC are high, and foreigners are often targets for muggings and kidnappings. There have also been occurrences of authorities arresting foreigners and demanding payment for release.

Mali is the fourth least safe country in Africa. A landlocked country in West Africa, Mali is the 154th safest country in the world with a GPI score of 3.095.

The UK government advises against travel to all areas of Mali except for Bamako. This is due to the prevalence of terrorist attacks and kidnappings throughout the country. Only essential travel should be taken to Bamako.

There is a high threat of terrorist attacks throughout Mali, and British nationals are viewed as targets. This has risen after Mali withdrew from the UN peacekeeping mission at the end of 2023. The situation remains dangerous in the country and attacks can occur at any time, particularly in places frequented by foreign nationals.

Somalia is the fifth least safe country in Africa and the 153rd safest country in the world. Located on the Horn of Africa at the easternmost point, Somalia has a GPI score of 3.091.

The UK government advises against travel to certain parts of Somalia, including the three eastern regions of Somaliland and only essential travel to the three western regions. Frequent terrorist attacks have occurred throughout Somalia by groups opposed to the country’s government. Threats have been made against Westerners and British nationals are viewed as targets.

Below is the full list of each African country that features on the GPI, ranked from safest to least safe: