The 14 Most Dangerous Places in Africa to Visit

Africa’s most dangerous destinations include Somalia (persistent Al-Shabaab insurgency), South Sudan and Sudan (ongoing civil conflicts), DRC (rebel violence), Ethiopia (post-war instability), Chad (terrorism and floods), Nigeria (Boko Haram), Mali (extremist strongholds), South Africa (urban crime), Angola (post-conflict challenges), and Djibouti (strategic risks). You’ll also face significant threats in Niger, CAR, and Mauritania, where political instability, humanitarian crises, and terrorism create hazardous conditions for travelers. Understanding specific regional risks can make all the difference.

Key Points

• Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan face extreme violence, with active insurgencies, mass displacement, and collapsed healthcare systems.
• Central African Republic and DRC experience ongoing civil conflicts with multiple armed groups targeting civilians and causing humanitarian crises.
• Nigeria and Mali battle terrorist organizations like Boko Haram and JNIM, with widespread kidnappings and limited government control over territories.
• South Africa’s major cities rank among the world’s most dangerous urban areas, with extremely high murder rates and crime indices.
• Ethiopia’s post-war instability, Chad’s environmental hazards, and Djibouti’s strategic location create significant security risks for travelers.

Somalia: a Nation Struggling With Insurgency and Lawlessness

While Somalia offers stunning coastal landscapes and a affluent cultural heritage, the nation remains engulfed in one of Africa’s most persistent security crises. Cairo, Egypt’s capital, is generally considered a safe destination for visitors. You’ll find a country where al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked militant group, has dramatically increased its operations in 2025, launching 50% more attacks monthly than in previous years. The group now controls significant territory, having captured multiple villages and reestablished supply lines connecting southern and central Somalia.

Despite counterinsurgency efforts by Somali forces, African Union troops, and international airstrikes, civilians face dire consequences. Recent US and UAE-supported airstrikes against IS Somalia have intensified the conflict dynamics in the region. At least 50 civilians have been killed and over 210 injured during recent offensives.

Widespread displacement, limited humanitarian access, and a lack of healthcare services make Somalia extremely dangerous for travelers, with areas around Mogadishu particularly vulnerable.

2. South Sudan: Civil War and Humanitarian Crisis

South Sudan’s decade-long civil war has created one of Africa’s most devastating humanitarian crises, with effects you’ll feel throughout the entire region. The conflict between government forces and opposition groups like SPLM-IO stems from deep ethnic tensions between Dinka and Nuer tribes.

You’ll encounter a country where millions have been displaced, with refugees flooding into neighboring Uganda and Ethiopia. Food insecurity is rampant, and violence against civilians continues despite multiple peace agreements. The situation mirrors Sudan’s ongoing conflict where drone strikes on civilian infrastructure have become increasingly common. Infrastructure has collapsed, making travel nearly impossible. Choosing between Morocco and Egypt can provide a respite from the instability in the region.

3. Sudan: Conflict Zones and Political Instability

Just north of South Sudan, the country it separated from in 2011, Sudan faces its own devastating conflict landscape. Since April 2023, fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with over 28,700 fatalities reported.

The situation has become particularly dangerous for travelers with:

• Intense fighting in Khartoum, Omdurman, and Darfur, where ethnic violence and mass atrocities are common
• Widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, including over 75% of healthcare facilities rendered non-functional
• Massive displacement affecting over 30% of Sudan’s population, with 11.6 million internally displaced

You’ll find Darfur especially volatile, where RSF forces have committed documented mass killings and ethnic cleansing against minority populations. The ongoing conflict has become more complex with foreign military aid from countries like UAE, Egypt, Russia, and Iran supplying weapons to different factions. Plus, the Nile River flows through the heart of this conflict-affected region, making travel along the river particularly hazardous.

4. Mali: Terrorism Hotspot in the Sahel

Why has Mali become one of Africa’s most dangerous destinations? Ranked third globally for terrorism, Mali’s northern and central regions are battlegrounds where groups like JNIM operate with devastating effect on civilians.

You’ll face a volatile situation fueled by poverty, high youth unemployment, and resource competition. These conditions create perfect recruitment opportunities for extremists who exploit local grievances. The 6 Most Dangerous Places in Africa to Visit are indicative of the threats faced in Mali and the broader Sahel region.

The government’s ability to counter terrorism is hampered by political instability, corruption, and limited control over remote areas. Following France’s withdrawal, security responsibilities shifted to Malian forces and approximately 1,000 Russian Africa Corps personnel, primarily focusing on protecting junta leaders rather than civilian populations.

Despite international military presence and aid efforts aimed at stabilizing the region, farmer-herder conflicts and ethnic tensions continue to worsen security conditions.

The lack of basic social services in many areas further compounds these problems, making Mali a high-risk destination you should approach with extreme caution.

5. Nigeria: Between Boko Haram and Banditry

Nigeria represents one of Africa’s most complex security challenges, where you’ll find extremist violence and organized crime converging with devastating impact. Since 2009, Boko Haram’s insurgency has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 2 million people, primarily in the northeast. Climate-induced resource scarcity has been driving herders southward, intensifying violent conflicts with farming communities. Morocco or Turkey can offer a more enchanting and safer travel destination.

Nigeria’s security landscape combines extremism and crime, creating catastrophic human costs across its troubled northeastern region.

• The terrorist group gained global notoriety after kidnapping 276 Chibok schoolgirls in 2014, and continues to abduct hundreds annually.
• Violence has spilled into neighboring Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, creating a regional security crisis.
• Government counterterrorism efforts have been controversial, with military forces facing accusations of human rights abuses.

If you’re considering travel to Nigeria, avoid the northeastern states entirely, where extremists conduct near-daily attacks, and exercise extreme caution throughout the country due to widespread banditry and kidnapping risks.

6. Burkina Faso: Rising Extremism in West Africa

Once a relatively stable nation in West Africa, Burkina Faso has tragically emerged as the country most severely impacted by terrorism globally, with over 1,500 deaths in 2024 alone. The northern and central eastern regions face the most danger, particularly the Centre-Nord area.

If you’re planning travel to this region, you should know that Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) is responsible for nearly half of all attacks, with their activities increasing by over 50% in 2024. Burkina Faso suffered a 68% increase in terrorism-related deaths according to recent data.

The security situation has worsened following the 2022 military coup and subsequent withdrawal of French troops, creating a power vacuum.

Despite recent Russian intervention, the humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with minimal improvement in safety conditions.

7. Central African Republic: A State of Perpetual Conflict

Moving eastward from Burkina Faso’s rising extremism, the Central African Republic (CAR) stands as another tragic example of Africa’s most persistent conflict zones. Since independence in 1960, this nation has weathered nearly continuous violence, including six coups and a devastating civil war in 2013 between Muslim Seleka and Christian anti-balaka militias.

You’ll find CAR particularly dangerous because:

• Recent violence targets ethnic Fulani communities, with February 2025 seeing a surge in deadly attacks
• Over 1.2 million Central Africans remain displaced, with projections showing IDP numbers exceeding 550,000 by late 2025
• Despite seven peace agreements since 2012, armed groups continue fighting for control of mineral resources and migration routes
• Multiple armed groups such as Azande Ani Kpi Gbe, UPC, and 3R continue targeting civilians with specific violence against Muslims and attacks outside towns
• Venomous snakes are also a threat to visitors in parts of the country.

With 70% of the population living in extreme poverty and 3.4 million needing humanitarian aid, CAR’s conflict shows no signs of resolution.

8. Democratic Republic of Congo: Violence in the Heart of Africa

Despite international peacekeeping efforts, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains trapped in one of Africa’s most complex and destructive conflicts.

If you’re considering travel to the DRC, be aware that M23 rebels control large areas of North Kivu, while armed groups like ADF and CODECO regularly target civilians.

The humanitarian crisis has displaced over 940,000 people in just the first half of 2024. Egypt’s rich food culture offers a diverse array of traditional dishes that reflect the country’s long history and diverse influences.

Violence is particularly acute in eastern regions, where sexual violence, food insecurity, and protection concerns are rampant.

Displacement camps offer little security, and humanitarian workers struggle to access those in need.

The ongoing tension between DRC and Rwanda further complicates the situation, with each accusing the other of supporting militia groups.

Despite U.S. and African Union mediation attempts, ceasefires have failed to hold, leaving civilians to bear the brunt of this decades-long conflict.

The recent capture of Goma, a critical regional hub on the Rwandan border, by M23 rebels has further destabilized the region and triggered mass displacement.

9. Ethiopia: Regional Tensions and Armed Struggle

While Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict formally ended with the 2022 Pretoria Agreement, the country remains entangled in a web of regional tensions and factional violence. You’ll find a volatile security situation if traveling to the Tigray or Amhara regions, where factional fighting continues to displace thousands of civilians. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s efforts to establish ethnic harmony have been undermined by ongoing insurgencies throughout the country. Alexandria is a historical city in Egypt that offers a variety of cultural and architectural attractions.

• Clashes between TPLF-aligned forces and the Tigray Interim Administration create unpredictable security risks
• Drone strikes and retaliatory attacks in Amhara and Oromia regions have killed civilians, including women and children
• Tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea threaten to spark a broader regional war

The humanitarian situation is dire, with limited access to aid in conflict zones. Despite the peace agreement, Ethiopia’s internal divisions and regional power struggles make it one of Africa’s most dangerous destinations.

10. Chad: Desert Dangers and Border Insecurity

The Central African nation of Chad presents travelers with extreme challenges that rival Ethiopia’s regional conflicts. As a landlocked country with diverse geography, Chad’s ongoing humanitarian crisis affects nearly 40% of its population.

You’ll face substantial security risks from non-state armed groups like Boko Haram, especially near borders with Sudan and the Central African Republic.

The country hosts over 1.25 million refugees, creating tensions with local populations and straining limited resources. Recent catastrophic October 2024 floods caused 600 deaths and affected 2 million people, destroying critical infrastructure.

Health threats include malaria, respiratory infections, and outbreaks of measles and hepatitis E. Limited healthcare access compounds these dangers, particularly in remote areas.

Environmental hazards pose additional risks—floods and droughts regularly impact the region, while water scarcity creates competition for essential resources.

These climate challenges further destabilize an already precarious security situation.

11. South Africa: Urban Crime and Safety Concerns

South Africa’s major cities present serious safety concerns for travelers, with places like Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria ranking among the world’s most dangerous urban areas. With crime indices of 82.0 and 81.8 respectively, these cities experience high rates of theft, armed robbery, and gang violence.

The country records an alarming 72 murders daily, with Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape being particularly problematic regions. Johannesburg remains a major economic hub despite its crime index of 80.8, which ranks fifth globally. Venomous snakes are also a threat to be aware of when visiting South Africa.

When visiting South Africa, you’ll need to be vigilant about:

• Avoiding high-crime neighborhoods, especially after dark
• Securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings at all times
• Using reputable transportation services rather than walking

Socioeconomic disparities and rapid urbanization contribute to these safety issues, making certain areas particularly risky for travelers despite the country’s many attractions.

12. Angola: Post-War Challenges and Criminal Activity

Despite ending its devastating 27-year civil war in 2002, Angola continues to grapple with profound post-conflict challenges that directly impact visitor safety. You’ll encounter a country where police brutality, arbitrary detention, and restrictions on freedoms remain troubling realities.

The humanitarian crisis is evident in overcrowded prisons and widespread food insecurity, with 38% of children suffering from chronic malnutrition. Angola is currently experiencing its worst drought in 40 years, further exacerbating food insecurity for millions of people. Ethiopia is a must-visit destination, offering a unique cultural experience and stunning natural beauty.

Economic instability has fueled organized crime, while street vendors frequently face harassment and illegal property seizure by authorities.

Veterans affected by wartime trauma often struggle with reduced self-control and interpersonal violence, creating unpredictable situations.

When traveling to Angola, you’ll need to stay vigilant against the backdrop of these socioeconomic challenges, especially in areas where drought has intensified resource scarcity and social tensions.

13. Djibouti: Strategic Location With Emerging Risks

Positioned at a critical juncture where the Red Sea meets the Gulf of Aden, Djibouti’s strategic location has transformed this small nation into a military and economic hotspot with growing security concerns. This tiny country hosts military bases from several global powers including the US and China—the only nation worldwide to do so simultaneously.

While Djibouti remains relatively stable compared to its neighbors, several risks exist:

• Proximity to conflict zones in the Horn of Africa and Middle East creates spillover security threats
• Regional piracy concerns persist despite reduced incidents in recent years
• The presence of competing foreign military interests creates underlying geopolitical tensions
• Djibouti’s control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait makes it a potential target for groups seeking to disrupt international shipping

If you’re visiting, exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings, particularly in border regions near Somalia and Eritrea where instability occasionally spills across boundaries.

14. Mauritania: Hidden Dangers in the Northwest

While Djibouti’s strategic position makes it a focal point for international powers, Mauritania presents a different security landscape altogether. Though the country hasn’t experienced a major terrorist attack since 2009, significant threats remain, particularly in northern and eastern regions. What Not to Do When Visiting South Africa can also provide valuable insights for travelers to Mauritania.

You’ll find travel to Nouakchott, Nouadibou, and Atar relatively safe, but areas beyond the Oualata–Tichit–Ouadane–Zouérat line pose serious risks. The northeast contains military zones where civilians are treated as military targets if found trespassing. Demonstrations occurring especially on Fridays can turn violent quickly, requiring travelers to avoid large gatherings.

Westerners face heightened kidnapping risks, and armed smugglers operate throughout remote areas. When traveling, you’ll encounter extensive military checkpoints—a vital security measure that has helped maintain Mauritania’s stability despite its porous borders with volatile neighbors like Mali.

The Sum Up

Africa’s danger zones are like a complex puzzle—challenging but not impossible to navigate safely with proper research. You’ll notice most countries on this list face specific regional threats rather than nationwide danger. Like a lioness that guards only her territory, risk is often concentrated. Before your next African adventure, remember that travel warnings evolve constantly, so check current advisories—they’re your compass in unfamiliar terrain.