The most dangerous countries in Africa have been ranked at the midway point of 2025, with one country continuing to sit at the top of the table – and it’s a place very popular with Brits.
The list compiled by Cost of Living , has ranked South Africa as the most dangerous country in the continent, with a crime index rating of 74.6.
South Africa was around eight points ahead of the second most dangerous country of Angolain central Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria and Cameroon rounded off the top 5, while Rwanda was ranked as the 25th most dangerous on the continent.
Further data in Cost of Living ‘s Crime Index for cities midway through the year, had five South African cities in the top 10 — with Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria ranked the top two most dangerous cities globally.
The other South African cities in the top 10 were Johannesburg, Durban and Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth.
South Africa has been regularly ranked as the most dangerous country in Africa in Cost of Living ‘s crime index, with high rates of murder and carjacking. The last time it wasn’t Africa’s most dangerous country was in 2017, when it was deemed to be slightly safer than South Sudan.
Despite around 400,000 tourists a year visiting South Africa, the official Foreign Office guidance for UK travellers warns that attacks are likely in certain areas, including the incredible Table Mountain National Park.
Brits are warned that terrorists are “likely” to carry out attacks in South Africa, with the main threat coming from individuals who have been inspired by terrorist groups including Daesh.
They could target tourist sites, shopping centres, high profile events and crowded places, according to the guidance. It adds that “there are regular protests and demonstrations in South Africa which can turn violent at short notice” – with the Mozambique border being a particular hotspot.
When it comes to crime, the Foreign Office warns of a high crime rate in the country, with the most common being violent muggings, snatching jewellery and valuables, carjacking, “smash and grab” attacks on vehicles, house robbery, rape and sexual assault, and murder.
It also warns of recent attacks on secondary roads to and from Cape Town airport, urging touristst to stay on the M3 and N2 roads.
It also adds: “There have been recent violent attacks and muggings against hikers and foreign tourists in Table Mountain National Park, including on Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.”