Feeling safe and secure during international vacationing is an absolute priority for any traveller. Often countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Iceland, and Portugal ranks among the safest and most secure places to visit on earth.
People in those countries are typically kind, friendly, and hospitable, and coupled with their vast and stunning sceneries, its little wonder that people often prefer touring there.
But what about Africa? What countries are safe to travel, and which ones should you be wary of. With the rising cases of terrorism and political unrest, every country in Africa, and elsewhere in the world, possesses some element of risk.
No need to worry, though. While times and situations may change, as evidenced by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are safe countries in Africa that you can explore without much worry.
Africa’s landscapes, topography, and vacationing activities vary greatly but mesmerize in equal measure. Here are five safe and secure picks for your next exploration in 2021.
Read also: Nigeria not among Africa’s top 5 most attractive countries for investment in 2020
Namibia
Namibia gets the vote as probably the safest country in the African continent. Firstly, with its desert climate, tropical diseases such as Malaria are less common in this country, especially in the southern territories.
Secondly, with a largely arid backdrop, Namibia is one of the lowest populous countries in the world, and crime levels here are generally very low. The county is also politically stable than most countries in Africa, meaning that political wrangles are nominal, while roads and medical services are generally excellent.
Exploring the Namib Desert, sand dunes, and dead mountains will give you a striking awe of Mother Nature’s finest achievements. With the world’s oldest desert on one side and the violent Atlantic Ocean on the other, there will be plenty of things to exhilarate you here, all with the safety and security you wish.
Tip: While Namibia’s thriving adventure activity scene may captivate you, we recommend trying to learn Namibian dialects such as Afrikaans language, Oshiwambo and more. Learning new languages will not only take your exploratory experience to a whole new level but will come in handy in terms of expanding your lingua know-how and exploring the country better. Tutors from Masaimarasafari.in has written multiple language study guides including English to Hausa translation and study guide, English to Spanish study guide, and more. We never stop learning. Right?
Kenya
Moving to the Eastern African side of the continent, we are going to name Kenya. Kenya made the cut ahead of another safe country, Tanzania, because the people here speak English very well, which makes things easier, especially for English speaking foreigners.
Although the country has had its fair share of crisis, such as the hugely contested election in 2017, which led to a lot of political unrest, such events are often isolated and not a regular occurrence. Some parts of the coastal region are also reported to be unsafe because the country borders Somalia.
All things analyzed, the country is generally safe and secure, and the country is largely regarded as one of the best tourist destinations in Africa, especially because of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
Aside from fluency in English among the native population, the country is also one of the most developed nations in Eastern Africa, with remarkable infrastructure and communication networks.
Tip: The best time to book a Kenyan tour is from July and September during the dry season, a period that also coincides with the Wildebeest Migration.
Botswana
Like Namibia, Botswana is also one of the safest and secure countries in Africa, with only a few cases of petty crime. This is also probably one of the easiest countries in the country to rent a car and self-drive without much worry.
Like most countries around the world, most petty crimes like pickpocketing in Botswana happen around the city, so it’s advisable to take basic safety precautions as you’d take back home.
For instance, when you are going out of the city unguided, you can avoid issues by seeking advice from your hotel, taking a cap, and roaming without wearing valuables.
Touted as one of the top destinations in Africa, if not the world, Botswana will enchant you with her breathtaking sunsets, alluring backdrops, and stunning wildlife.
Tip: While here, you must try the Mokoro. This is a local canoe ride that is not meant for the fainthearted. This is purely for adrenaline junkies who are prepared to meet grumpy hippos and crocodiles while taking a ride through the waters of Okavango Delta.
Mauritius
If you’re exploring some of the safest countries in Africa, then Mauritius should easily make it into the cut. As with the previous two listed countries, the little clime there is in this country is just petty theft.
But, there are a few natural disasters that can hit the country from time to time. This is primarily the cyclone season that happens between November and May. The risk of terrorism is low in the country, but like in any other form of international travel, you should always be aware of your surroundings at all times and seek guided tours whenever possible.
Mauritius is famous for its honeymoon expeditions, because of its striking beaches and sundowners. However, the country is home to all sorts of interesting and fun things to do. From adrenaline-rushing activities to its historical places, there is plenty of attractions for everyone.
Tip: Visit Mauritius between May and November when it’s both coolest and driest. This is the perfect period to avoid the cyclone season. You can stay at Port Louis, one of the wealthiest and most secure cities in Africa.
Seychelles
Last, but certainly not least, is Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern parts of the African continent. This idyllic cluster of the breathtaking island is considered one of the safest destinations in Africa.
There is excellent political instability here, and the tourism industry is really established. In fact, about 15% of the population work in the tourism industry. Most tourists here will reside in secure beach resorts, which lowers the chance of situations of serious, or even petty crime.
This destination is perfect for honeymooners who are looking to spend on the beautiful beaches and drink in some experiences in coral reefs and nature reserves. There is also a chance to witness some rare animals such as giant Aldabra tortoises.
Tip: If you have already explored these five destinations, other honourable mentions that you may include are Rwanda, Tanzania, Mozambique, Egypt, The Gambia, and Ethiopia.
