Thinking about a trip to Africa? Some destinations on the continent are a lot safer than others. The 2020 Global Safety Index ranks all the countries in the world by how safe they are based on metrics such as ongoing conflict, societal security, and militarization. Read on to find out about the safest and most dangerous African countries.

Botswana Is The Safest African Country

According to the Global Safety Index, the safest county in Africa is Botswana, a nation that lies in the heart of Southern Africa. The landlocked country is home to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve which is a huge point of interest for tourists. Those visiting the reserve have the chance to see wild giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, wild dogs, and other animals. The U.S. Department of State has rated Botswana a Level 1 travel advisory category, meaning that U.S. citizens are advised to visit the country and exercise normal precautions. There is no visa required for entry although a vaccine may be required if you are entering from yellow fever endemic countries. Other highlights in Botswana that continue to drive in tourists include the Chobe National Park, the Moremi Game Reserve, and the Okavango Delta. There is also the Tsodilo World-Heritage site where you’ll find historic rock paintings. RELATED: Things To Do In Africa (Other Than Go On Safari)

South Sudan Is The Most Dangerous Country In Africa

South Sudan is the most dangerous country in Africa and one of the most dangerous in the world, just falling above Afghanistan and Syria on the Global Safety Index. It is ranked as being more dangerous than typically risky countries such as Iraq, Somalia, and North Korea. U.S. citizens are advised by the government not to travel to South Sudan at all due to the threat of crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. A visa and a vaccination for yellow fever are required before entering the country, and the government advises those who are traveling to South Sudan despite the warnings to exercise extreme caution in all areas, at all times. Because of years of civil war and tribal conflict, the general population has access to weapons. Land mines also remain a huge problem, particularly in rural areas. Women, in particular, suffer from high levels of violence, and even journalism without permission from the South Sudanese Media Authority is considered illegal. RELATED: Top 10 Prettiest Destinations In Africa

Malawi Is Nearly As Safe As Italy

Malawi is not listed as the safest country in the world, or in Africa, on the Global Safety Index. But it does rank higher than many commonly popular international destinations, including the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, France, Greece, Vietnam, Peru, and Morocco. It is only one point lower than Italy on the index. Like many other popular African destinations, Malawi hosts a selection of nature-based attractions and is a haven for anybody with an interest in the outdoors. Some of the most popular things to do in the country include spotting elephants and black rhinos in Liwonde National Park, going on safari in Majete Wildlife Reserve, and visiting the beaches in Lake Malawi National Park. The U.S. Department of State categorizes Malawi as Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution. This is mainly due to civil unrest. American citizens will need to be vaccinated for yellow fever prior to entering the country. RELATED: 10 Best Things About Traveling To Africa

Somalia Is Often A Target For Terrorist Attacks

Following South Sudan, the next most dangerous country in Africa is Somalia, which has also been given a Level 4 travel advisory. American citizens are warned not to travel to Somalia at all due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, and piracy.

There is an increased chance of terrorism in Somalia and areas that tourists are likely to frequent such as hotels, restaurants, airports, seaports, and shopping areas are often targeted. American citizens who must travel to Somalia are advised to dress conservatively and avoid displaying their cash or other valuables around.

Water, health, and electricity systems in the country are lacking by American standards and local laws can sometimes be hostile towards foreigners. Violence against women remains a serious issue in the country, where there are no laws against spousal violence. Female genital mutilation also occurs in Somalia, with 98% of girls having undergone the procedure by the age of 14.

Ghana Is Africa’s Third-Safest Country

The third-safest country in Africa is Ghana, which ranks only a few points lower than Malawi. As of 2020, Ghana is considered safer than the United Kingdom, South Korea, France, Greece, Argentina, and several other popular tourist destinations around the world. Ghana is given a Level 1 travel advisory ranking by the U.S. Department of State and American citizens are advised to exercise normal caution while visiting the country. Some areas have an increased risk of danger and crime still does occur. But the country is still considered safe for American citizens to travel to. Visitors to Ghana often enjoy exploring Kakum National Park and Mole National Park. There are also several museums and historic buildings to see, including Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle. NEXT: 10 Of The Best Hotels In Africa