Hey there, fellow travelers! Remember how we talked about the thrill of exploring new places in our previous article? Well, now it’s time to decide where to go! And let’s be real, safety is a top priority. So, we’re counting down the safest spots in Africa. Buckle up, because we’re about to take off on an adventure! First up, the safest country in Africa… drumroll please… Mauritius! Get cozy, because we’re diving into what makes this island paradise so amazing!

1. Mauritius

Mauritius tops this list as the safest African country in 2024 and 2023 with an overall score of 1.546 on the most recent Global Peace Index. This number also places this African nation as the 23rd safest country in the world.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean‘, this island nation located off the eastern coast of Africa scores well on indicators such as organised conflict, terrorist activity, and conflicts fought. The country does not fare as well on the security of the civil police force as well as perceived criminality in society.

Mauritius — known for its pristine beaches, extensive coral reefs and lagoons, tropical climate, and cultural diversity — is also known for offering a safe environment to both residents and visitors. It is very safe to visit with a low crime rate that is mostly petty theft and non-violent.

This volcanic island getaway is a year round destination and should be on every beach lovers bucket list.

WHY MAURITIUS?

Reasons to visit Mauritius include its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, world class diving, perfect climate, multiculturalism, good food, and an abundance of activities for every kind of traveller.

Whether you’re into water-sports, mountain trekking, birdwatching, scuba-diving, quad biking, or cultural explorations there’s something here for you.

MAURITIUS EXPERIENCED

As I explored Mauritius, I was determined to immerse myself in the local culture. I had visited before, but this time I wanted to venture beyond the beach resorts. My experience with Kuoni exceeded my expectations, and I had multiple authentic experiences that left me in awe.

One of the highlights was learning about the history of Mauritius from our guide, Pravesh. He shared stories of the island’s colonization by Arabic, Dutch, French, and English settlers, and how each culture left its mark. I was fascinated by the melting pot of influences and the rich history that shaped the island.

I also had the opportunity to visit local workplaces, such as a tea factory and a biscuit factory. Seeing the locals at work, picking tea leaves and making biscuits, gave me a glimpse into their daily lives. I was struck by their skill and dedication.

Some of the beautiful places I visited include:

• Ganga Talao, a sacred lake important to Hindus, where I received a blessing from the priest
• Ebony forest, with its rare ebony trees and vulnerable wildlife
• Île aux Aigrettes, a coral island with rare and indigenous animals
• Pamplemousse Gardens, with its stunning natural beauty and local plant species
• Karay Mario, a restaurant serving authentic Mauritian cuisine

I was also fortunate enough to experience the local religion firsthand. Pravesh took us to the Ganga Talao, where we saw a statue of Durga and learned about the history of the various Hindu gods. We even received a blessing from the priest, which was a unique and memorable experience.

The food in Mauritius was incredible, and I made sure to try authentic Mauritian cuisine. Our waitress recommended local dishes, and we returned every lunchtime to try something new. But it was at Karay Mario that I truly experienced the flavors of the island.

Mauritius is also a haven for eco-tourism, with its unique biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. We visited the ebony forest, where our guide showed us the rare ebony trees and pointed out vulnerable wildlife. We also explored Île aux Aigrettes, where we saw pink pigeons and Mauritian foddies. The Pamplemousse Gardens were another highlight, with Pravesh sharing his knowledge of local plant species.

As I reflect on my time in Mauritius, I am struck by the sense of safety that pervaded every aspect of my trip. From the moment I arrived on the island, I felt a deep sense of security and well-being that allowed me to relax and fully immerse myself in the local culture.

One of the main reasons I felt so safe in Mauritius was the low crime rate. I never felt like I was at risk of being a victim of crime, and I was able to walk around freely without worrying about my belongings. This was a huge relief, especially compared to other destinations I’ve visited where crime has been a concern.

I also appreciated the strong law enforcement presence on the island. The police were visible and friendly, and I felt confident that they were there to help if I needed it. This sense of security was reinforced by the government’s clear commitment to tourist safety, with initiatives like the Tourist Police Unit and the Mauritius Tourism Authority’s safety guidelines.

But it wasn’t just the official measures that made me feel safe – it was also the cultural values of the Mauritian people. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality, and I felt like I was treated with respect and kindness. This sense of community and mutual respect created a safe and welcoming environment that made me feel at home.

Of course, no place is completely free of risk, and I still took normal precautions to ensure my personal safety. I was aware of my surroundings, kept my valuables secure, and avoided walking alone at night. But overall, I felt incredibly safe in Mauritius, and I believe that this is one of the island’s greatest strengths as a tourist destination.

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If you’re considering a trip to Mauritius, I highly recommend it. The island has so much to offer – stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people. And with its strong focus on safety and security, you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about your well-being.