The Safest African Cities for Solo Travel: A Comprehensive Guide with Safety Tips (2023)

Africa is a continent of incredible diversity, with bustling cities, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. While crime and safety issues can occur in any city, there are some African cities that are generally considered to be safer than others for solo travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the safest African cities for solo travel, along with some safety tips to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

1. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a beautiful city with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural attractions, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It has a lower crime rate compared to other South African cities and is generally considered safe for solo travelers. However, like any big city, it’s important to take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and being aware of your surroundings.

Colorful houses in Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Town, South Africa - known for its vibrant culture and historic architecture — Experience the vibrant culture and historic architecture of Bo-Kaap neighborhood in Cape Town, South Africa, through its iconic colorful houses – one of the safest African cities for solo travel.

2. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is known for its colorful markets, beautiful architecture, and vibrant street life. The city has a low crime rate, and solo travelers are generally safe to explore the city’s many attractions. However, it’s important to be cautious when it comes to scams and pickpocketing in busy areas like the markets.

Colorful market stand in Marrakech selling grains, with various baskets full of grains such as rice, wheat, and lentils on display. — Experience the vibrant sights and flavors of Marrakech’s bustling markets, where traditional grains and spices are proudly displayed for all to see and savor.

Experience the distinctive blend of Berber, pre-Islamic Spanish, and contemporary Islamic art in Marrakech's architecture, featuring recognizable elements such as the "Moorish" arch and riad gardens. This image showcases the unique and intricate architectural style of the city, which has evolved over centuries and is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and artistic influences. — Discover the unique and intricate architectural style of Marrakech, blending diverse cultural influences from North Africa, pre-Islamic Spain, and the Islamic Middle East. This picture showcases the iconic features of the city’s architecture.

3. Accra, Ghana

Accra, the capital city of Ghana, is a vibrant and growing tourism destination. Despite some street crime, solo travelers can stay safe by being alert and avoiding showing off wealth in crowded areas. With its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, Accra has something for everyone to enjoy. Visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Labadi beach and Accra’s Art Center: a vibrant marketplace where you can buy traditional crafts and souvenirs, including textiles, pottery.

Bustling and busy street in Accra with pedestrians, vendors, cars, and buses filling the lively scene. — A busy street in Accra with vendors selling goods, pedestrians walking, and colorful buses and taxis driving by, showcasing the lively scene of the city.

4. Kigali, Rwanda

Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, offers a range of attractions for visitors. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a sobering reminder of the country’s tragic past and serves as a memorial to the victims of the genocide. The Inema Arts Center and the Nyamirambo Women’s Center are two other must-visit attractions that showcase the vibrant culture and arts scene of the city. Kigali is a clean, safe, and organized city with a low crime rate. The city is known for its welcoming locals and beautiful scenery, including the nearby Volcanoes National Park. It’s important to note that traffic can be hectic in Kigali, so take care when crossing roads.

View of Volcanoes National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas and stunning volcanic landscapes, in Rwanda. — Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the majestic beauty of endangered mountain gorillas and the breathtaking volcanic landscapes that make this park a true natural wonder

Behold the stunning skyline of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, with its impressive array of modern skyscrapers and buildings set against a breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery.

5. Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Zanzibar City is a charming, historic city with beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural heritage. Definitely worth a visit is Zanzibar Stone Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cultural and architectural heritage.

Zanzibar Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich cultural and architectural heritage, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and colorful markets — Explore the Cultural and Architectural Heritage of Zanzibar Stone Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While there is some street crime, the city is generally safe for solo travelers who take basic precautions. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Zanzibar beach — Experience paradise on earth in Zanzibar. Discover pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters that will leave you in awe.

6. Windhoek, Namibia

Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia, situated in the central highlands of the country. The city is known for its blend of German colonial architecture and modern buildings, as well as its vibrant cultural scene and outdoor activities, such as hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore nearby landmarks, such as the Namib Desert and Etosha National Park. Windhoek is a small, friendly city with a low crime rate and a laid-back atmosphere.

7. Gaborone, Botswana

Gaborone is a modern, safe city with a low crime rate and a variety of cultural attractions. The city is known for its welcoming locals and beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby Mokolodi Nature Reserve.

"Explore the vibrant cityscape of Gaborone, Botswana: A dynamic hub of commerce and culture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. — Explore the vibrant cityscape of Gaborone, Botswana: A dynamic hub of commerce and culture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

However, it’s important to take precautions, such as avoiding displaying wealth and being aware of your surroundings.

Encounter the beauty of Botswana's wildlife: A mesmerizing scene of zebras in their natural habitat just outside the bustling city of Gaborone. — Encounter the beauty of Botswana’s wildlife: A mesmerizing scene of zebras in their natural habitat just outside the bustling city of Gaborone.

8. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is a bustling city with a mix of African and Arab influences. While there is some street crime, the city is generally safe for solo travelers who take basic precautions.

Dar es salaam city — Where the city meets the sea: A stunning view of Dar Es Salaam’s bustling skyline and serene ocean waters.

View of Dar es Salaam, a bustling city in Tanzania that blends African and Arab cultural influences,

However it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

9. Lusaka, Zambia

Lusaka is a friendly, welcoming city with a low crime rate and a variety of cultural attractions. The city is known for its vibrant music scene and it’s beautiful natural surroundings, including nearby game reserves and national parks.

View of a game reserve in Lusaka, Zambia, showcasing the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the region.

10. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Addis Ababa is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and a variety of attractions, including the National Museum of Ethiopia and the Addis Ababa Ethnographic Museum.

Addis Ethiopia Piazza — Step into the charm of the past: Piazza, the heart of the old downtown city center, alive with bustling narrow streets, quaint cafés, and glittering jewelry shops.

While the city has a reputation for being unsafe, it’s important to note that crime rates have been decreasing in recent years.

Street market in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with vendors selling colorful produce, spices, and textiles, showcasing the vibrant culture

Solo travelers should still take basic precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and being aware of their surroundings.

In conclusion, there are many safe African cities for solo travelers to explore. By taking basic precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding walking alone at night, you can enjoy all the cultural and natural attractions that these cities have to offer. Remember to research the local customs and laws before you go, and always trust your instincts when it comes to your safety. With proper planning and awareness, you can have a safe and enjoyable solo vacation in some of the safest African cities for solo travel in Africa.

Simplify your travel gear to the essentials, including your phone which can serve multiple purposes such as a camera, guidebook, translator, currency converter, and more. Opt for versatile bags like the Cindy circle bag , the Thembi basket bag and Pratique Sling for your daily essentials during city visits. Focus on practicality and versatility for a stress-free travel experience.