North America is home to some of the world’s largest countries—Canada, the United States, and Mexico—which are also quite safe.
That’s not all—many Caribbean destinations are perfectly safe to visit, too, including the Bahamas, Belize, Barbados, Dominica, St. Lucia, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Grenada, and Costa Rica.
Join us as we dive into the safety of each destination, unearth a fascinating fun fact, and share a couple of safety tips—as even the safest gems require some caution!
First Things First: The Key Sources Shaping Our Selection
- Global Peace Index (GPI): Created by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). Ranging from 1 to 5, this scale paints a detailed picture of a destination’s safety, where a lower score signifies a more secure spot for travelers.
- Global Organized Crime Index (GOCI): Backed by INTERPOL, the European Union, and the United States government. The scale goes from 1 to 10, where lower scores indicate safer territories for visits.
- Women, Peace, and Security Index: Crafted by the Georgetown Institute. With scores ranging from 0 to 1, a higher score signifies a safer environment for female visitors.
- Numbeo: A global ranking website based on the collective wisdom of the crowd. Here, participants from all around rank the safety of a given destination on topics ranging from corruption to worries about being robbed or harassed. The scale goes from 0 to 100 with a higher score indicating greater threat.
- Global Happiness Index: Curated by WorldPopulationReview. The scale here ranges from 1 to 10, with a higher score indicating more happy locals. A happy local population often correlates with a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.
1. Canada
Our exploration kicks off with THE safest country in North America—Canada.
This friendly land set under the Northern Lights boasts a happiness barometer of 6.96, placing it in the 13th spot globally in terms of happy locals.
Canada’s Global Peace Index stands at a stellar 1.3, making it the 11th most peaceful country in the world. Delving into the Organized Crime Index reaffirms this, with Canada displaying some of the lowest crime rates throughout both Americas. As such, Canada is also one of the safest countries for women, the 13th safest in the world, to be exact.
Spanning six time zones—Pacific, Mountain, Central, Eastern, Atlantic, and Newfoundland—Canada’s vastness means that crime rates may vary across regions. However, if you seek the ultimate safety, look no further than Toronto, ranked as the second safest city by the Economist in 2021.
Examining Numbeo, a remarkable 12,659 contributors vouched for Canada’s safety. Their primary concern? The consumption of illegal substances. We recommend that you also avoid such activities.
Fun fact: Canada is home to the Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver. The bridge hangs 450 feet (137 meters) across and 230 feet (70 meters) above the Capilano River. The bridge sways among the treetops—moving with the natural forces of wind and the river below. The heights may make you dizzy, but the sights are well worth it!
2. Costa Rica
Next on our safety tour is Costa Rica, a vibrant oasis where ‘Pura Vida’ is not just a saying but a way of life.
Costa Ricans radiate optimism and embody a uniquely positive outlook on life, confirmed by their 23rd place on the Global Happiness Scale as one of the happiest people worldwide.
The color-coded Global Peace Map paints Costa Rica in serene green with a peace index of 1.73, securing its position as the second most peaceful country in North America, trailing only behind Canada.
Costa Rica’s criminality score is 5.5, comparable but slightly lower than other global tourist hotspots like the United Kingdom (5.7), France (5.8), and Italy (6.2). The Global Women Safety Index also places Costa Rica within a safe range for women.
Numbeo, with insights from around 253 contributors, reveals some minimal concerns about insults or physical attacks in Costa Rica. While the country faces challenges with corruption, property crimes, drug incidents, and vandalism, a vigilant traveler can navigate through them with ease!
Fun fact: In Costa Rica, there’s a town called “Zarcero” known for its topiary garden. Nestled in the central square of the town, this garden showcases a collection of shrubs and trees meticulously trimmed into various shapes, including animals, geometric figures, and even dinosaurs.
3. Grenada
Our next stop is Grenada, known as the Spice Isle of the Caribbean. Here, there’s a hint of spice in every corner—even the air is infused with the scents of nutmeg and cinnamon.
Grenada is a small Caribbean island, so small that the Global Peace and Global Happiness Maps haven’t rated it. However, the Global Organized Crime Index has enough information to evaluate it as a safe place to visit.
Grenada boasts a remarkably low crime index of 2.93. This positions Grenada as the second country with the lowest crime in the Caribbean and the Americas at large, and secures its place among the top 15 countries with the lowest crime presence globally.
Numbeo rankings echo this sentiment, showcasing virtually non-existent concerns from its contributors. Here, even walking alone during the night is regarded as safe—a rarity that truly sets this paradise apart!
Fun fact: Grenada is home to the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park—a unique collection of sculptures submerged beneath the water’s surface. Crafted by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, this underwater museum features an array of sculptures portraying scenes from local life and folklore. If you’re a fan of diving, this is a sight you shouldn’t miss.
4. Panama
Panama has the best of both worlds—urban excitement and rural relaxation.
On one hand, Panama is listed as one of the best retirement destinations by the 2024 Annual Global Retirement Index. On the other, Panama City—its capital—is bustling with luxury resorts, crowded restaurants, cultural landmarks, and a lively nightlife.
With a Global Peace Index of 1.9—equivalent to that of France—Panama boasts a peaceful environment that appeals to travelers. Additionally, the locals are known for their friendliness and warmth, contributing to the overall happiness of the country, as reflected in the Global Happiness Index.
According to Numbeo, people in Panama feel some low-level concerns related to property crimes, fear of insults, or physical attacks based on characteristics like skin color, ethnicity, gender, or religion.
For female travelers, Panama offers a sense of security, with the Female Safety Index indicating a favorable safety rank of 0.7, positioning the country on the safer end of the spectrum.
Fun fact: Panama is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 1,000 bird species, placing it among the world’s top countries for bird diversity. You can encounter toucans and parrots in lush rainforests or majestic eagles and hawks soaring over mountainous terrains. Renowned birdwatching hotspots include the Pipeline Road in Soberanía National Park, the highlands of Boquete, and the cloud forests of Volcán Barú.
5. The Dominican Republic
Our next safety destination is none other than the Dominican Republic —a country that has earned the prestigious title of the world’s No.1 tourism destination for two consecutive years by ForwardKeys.
Beyond its reputation as a tourist hotspot, the Dominican Republic has also emerged as a top spot for wellness getaways, as was extensively covered by Forbes.
With an Organized Crime Index of 5, the Dominican Republic ranks as the 15th safest spot throughout the Americas. Moreover, on the Global Peace Index, the country boasts a score of 2 – a higher level of peace compared to its neighbors such as Haiti (2.3) and Cuba (2.1).
Punta Cana, located on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, stands out as one of the Domincan Republic’s most beautiful, tourist-friendly, and safe areas. According to Numbeo, the primary concern here is corruption, which barely impacts tourists. However, it’s wise to remain vigilant as property crimes do cause some concern.
Fun fact: The Dominican Republic houses Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean standing tall at 10,164 feet (3,098 meters) above sea level. What makes this mountain truly captivating is the journey through diverse ecosystems as you ascend—beginning in lush tropical rainforests at the base, climbers venture through pine forests, and finally, reach the rocky summit for a breathtaking panoramic view.
6. St. Lucia
St. Lucia appeals to travelers of all types—whether it’s music enthusiasts flocking to the annual St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival or newlyweds seeking intimacy on the island’s pristine beaches.
St. Lucia has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. The Organized Crime Index of 3.5 supports this, positioning the island among the top ten countries with the lowest crime rates in the Americas.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with warmth and courtesy by the locals, who are known for their friendly demeanor. It’s customary to hear variations of “good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good night” as you explore stores, public transportation, restaurants, and beyond.
For accommodations, Rodney Bay Village stands out as one of the safest areas in St. Lucia. Meanwhile, Marigot Bay boasts historical significance as the site of many battles between the French and British navies. Other noteworthy areas include Cap Estate, Soufriere, and the bustling Gros Islet—the most popular among tourists.
While St. Lucia experiences occasional petty crimes like pickpocketing during festivals—a concern shared by events worldwide—vigilance and common sense can mitigate such risks.
Numbeo indicates slight concern on the part of contributors regarding property crimes such as car theft, corruption, and drug-related issues. However, these concerns rarely affect tourists, especially within resort zones.
Fun fact: St. Lucia is home to the hottest and most active geothermal area in the Lesser Antilles—the Sulphur Springs, near the town of Soufrière. One particularly popular attraction within the Sulphur Springs are the therapeutic mud baths. Tourists have the opportunity to slather themselves in the warm, mineral-rich mud, which is believed to have rejuvenating and healing properties for the skin.
7. Dominica
Next on our list is Dominica, hailed by CNN as “a true paradise with explosions of colorful plants and fish” and praised by TIMEOUT for “keeping the Caribbean beautiful.”
What sets Dominica apart is its commitment to natural splendor, making it one of the most well-preserved destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Instead of sprawling resorts, visitors encounter unspoiled natural beauty at every turn.
Dominica holds another impressive title: according to the Global Organized Crime Index, it ranks as the country with the lowest crime rate in the Americas. In fact, it’s among the top ten safest countries globally.
While enjoying your vacation in Dominica, it’s wise to remain cautious of drug-related incidents, as indicated by Numbeo. However, such concerns are rare, especially in the secure hotel areas far removed from the island’s hustle and bustle.
Fun fact: Dominica is known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean.” One natural highlight is the Boiling Lake, situated within the Morne Trois Pitons National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Boiling Lake is the second-largest hot spring in the world and is filled with bubbling, grayish-blue water, caused by the heat from the underlying volcanic activity. The lake is located in the heart of the island’s lush rainforest and requires a full-day rigorous hike with a guide for a chance to go for a dip. Are you up for it?
8. Mexico
We now step into Mexico, a colorful, lively nation where street tacos, mariachi music, and some of the most beautiful resort areas reign supreme.
Now, you might be raising an eyebrow, thinking, “Mexico on a safety list?” You may be surprised, but yes! Despite its reputation for organized crime, Mexico can be a remarkably safe vacation spot, especially in well-trodden tourist cities like Cozumel and Merida. These areas are far from the border regions that garner a less favorable reputation.
A testament to this is that in 2023, more than 108 million passengers traveled to Mexico! Mexicans are celebrated for their warmth and hospitality, earning them a stellar 6.3 on the Global Happiness rankings—beating out Portugal (5.97) and Japan (6.1) in the happiness department!
For the ladies, a bit of extra caution is advisable while exploring, as indicated by the “low safety” ranking on the Global Women Safety Index. However, insights from around 4,000 contributors on Numbeo reveal that the biggest concern here revolves around drug-related offenses, but let’s be honest—who needs to engage in such activities when you have tequila and a delectable array of cuisine to savor in Mexico?
Fun fact: Mexico has over fifty pyramids, and three stand tall in the ancient city of Teotihuacan—the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The Pyramid of the Sun aligns with the Sun’s positions during the equinoxes—where shadows create the illusion of a serpent descending the pyramid’s staircase. This mesmerizing display is linked to the Aztec deity Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent.
9. Barbados
Barbados is a Caribbean gem with a British twist! Despite gaining independence from Great Britain in 1966, the island still embraces British traditions like afternoon tea, cricket, and horse races. But amidst these traditions, you’ll also find its unique tropical charm—vast sugar cane fields, bustling rum distilleries, gentle ocean breezes, and the infectious rhythm of calypso music.
Barbados boasts an Organized Crime Index of 3.07, positioning it as the third safest Caribbean country and one of the top 15 safest nations in the world. The Global Women Safety Index for Barbados is moderate approaching high, indicating safety and making it a fantastic choice for a girls’ trip.
While enjoying the beauty of Barbados, remember to keep an eye on your valuables, as some Numbeo contributors expressed slight concerns about property crimes. Nonetheless, such precautions are advisable regardless of your location, even in your own hometown.
Fun fact: Barbados hides a geological marvel called Harrison’s Cave, nestled in the island’s central uplands. This underground limestone cavern dazzles with stalactites, stalagmites, and intricate crystallized formations. Visitors from all over the world come to experience its geometric wonders—and so can you!
10. Belize
Belize may be small in size, spanning less than 9,000 miles squared— near the size of Massachusetts—but it offers more than enough to leave visitors in awe, like the beautiful Mayan temples!
Belize comprises around 200 islands, with the largest, Ambergris Caye, drawing the most visitors. One of the safest places to stay on Ambergris Caye is The Phoenix Resort, conveniently located across the street from the police headquarters and providing round-the-clock security.
However, Belize is home to numerous other peaceful islands worth exploring, such as Tobacco Caye, South Water Caye, Silk Caye, and Caye Caulker. According to Numbeo, the primary concerns here revolve around property crimes and drug incidents. Fortunately, these issues are generally isolated from the resort areas where most visitors spend their time.
The Global Organized Crime Index supports Belize’s safety reputation, with a crime score of 4.87, which puts it among the top 15 safest countries in the Americas. To put this in perspective, Switzerland—one of the world’s safest countries—shares an identical crime index of 4.87.
Fun fact: Belize is home to the Great Blue Hole, the largest sinkhole in the world. This underwater marvel has a perfectly circular shape and a deep blue color, creating a stunning contrast against the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. As such, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
11. United States
Now, let’s shift our safety spotlight to the United States, often hailed as the “melting pot” of diverse cultures and landscapes.
Within the United States, you’ll find some of the safest cities globally, as per the Economist rankings of 2021. These include iconic metropolises like New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Dallas.
On the Global Peace Index, the United States secured a good score of 2.4, surpassing countries like Mexico, Russia, Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil. In the realm of organized crime, the U.S. stands in the middle ground with a score of 5.6, a tad less affected than other tourist hotspots like the United Kingdom (5.7) or France (5.8).
The United States holds the 15th place for happiest locals, while the Global Women Safety Index, with a score of 0.823, positions the country as relatively safe for women.
With feedback from around 18,000 contributors on Numbeo, the consensus on the United States’ safety is solid. The primary concern of contributors is the selling or purchasing of illegal substances.
Considering the sheer size of the U.S., crime rates can vary significantly between cities or even between neighborhoods of otherwise safe cities. There are areas tourists might want to avoid, and staying informed is always a smart move!
Fun fact: In the United States, one remarkable natural wonder is the Antelope Canyon in Arizona. The narrow, beautifully sculpted corridors are carved over time by the natural forces of water and wind. As sunlight streams through openings at the canyon’s summit, it creates a stunning palette of colors and textures on the smooth sandstone walls.
12. The Bahamas
NASA Astronaut Scott Kelly famously described The Bahamas as “the most expansive area of brilliantly blue water on our planet,” and indeed, its sublimeness is undeniable.
The Bahamas comprise 700 islands and 2,400 cays, among which the Out Islands stand out as the safest for tourists, earning them the endearing moniker “Family Islands.” Notable examples include the Abaco Islands and Eleuthera Islands.
Conversely, the main islands, namely New Providence and Grand Bahama Island, host 70% of the local population—and unfortunately, they’re also where most crime occurs. According to Numbeo, property crimes, vandalism, and corruption are the primary concerns.
Despite these challenges, the Bahamas ranks among the top ten safest countries in the Americas on the Organized Crime Index, boasting a remarkably low score of 3.75—on par with Norway, one of the safest places globally!
Fun fact: In the Bahamas, you’ll find the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, where a group of adorable feral pigs have made the island their home. These pigs freely wander the sandy shores and shallow waters. Don’t miss the chance to take pictures with these friendly inhabitants!
Safety Tips: Even the Safest Countries Require a Pinch of Caution!
★ Check the Travel Advisory
Before embarking on your exciting journey, tap into the wealth of information provided by the US, UK, and Canadian travel advisories, which are annually updated. These guides delve into the safety status of various destinations worldwide. For example, if you’re planning a visit to Mexico City, you’ll gain insights into the specific crimes and potential trouble areas in the capital. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll navigate your way cautiously and avoid potential dangers.
★ Investigate the Neighborhood of Your Accommodation
When it comes to selecting your lodgings, do some detective work on the neighborhood before booking your stay. Our advice is to prioritize tourist-friendly areas and the bustling heart of the city. This way, you’ll constantly be surrounded by a lively crowd and a visible police presence, creating a layer of safety around you. Additionally, staying downtown keeps you close to your accommodation, which eliminates the need for lengthy walks, taxis, or public transportation.
★ Sift Through the Reviews
Imagine booking a trendy boutique hotel in the capital of Costa Rica, San José, only to find out from reviews that some guests felt uneasy due to inadequate security measures.
Beyond the fluffy pillows and sparkling bathrooms, prioritize your safety and read what others say about the security measures at your potential lodging. Look for what’s important for you to feel safe and comfortable—be it a room safe, security guards, or card keys. For additional safety, look for keywords like “gated premises,” “restricted guest access,” and “vigilant guards.”
★ Plan for the Elements
North America is large and with varying climates, so it makes a huge difference whether you’re going to the tropical Bahamas or to the more chilly, continental Canada.
So before packing your bags, it would be wise to know the weather forecast of your destination. We recommend NOAA’s National Weather Service. This website arms you with detailed weather insights, helping you pack the perfect wardrobe and essentials for your North American adventure.
★ Learn Your Destination’s Natural Risks
Every corner of North America has its own set of potential natural hazards. So before you get lost in the timeless charm of your North American destination, tap into the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System. This resource will keep you in the loop about any potential natural disasters brewing in the region that you’re about to explore. Whether it’s the risk of snowstorms in Canada or seismic activity in Mexico, this website will give you real-time updates for whatever natural threat may be heading your way.
★ Download Handy Travel Apps
Travel apps make everything easier. For instance, let’s say you’re in bustling New York, and a sudden downpour catches you off guard. Instead of trying to hail a cab on the street, a few taps on your Uber app will have a dry ride waiting for you within minutes.
In addition to transport, one needs to have seamless navigation. Let’s say you’re wandering through the charming alleys of Oaxaca, Mexico. Lost in the beauty of the city, you realize you’ve strayed a bit too far. Thanks to Google Maps, you effortlessly find your way back. The added perk? You can download offline maps, eliminating the need for public Wi-Fi or roaming costs.
For those midnight hunger cravings, food delivery apps like UberEats or DoorDash are your culinary saviors. Suppose you find yourself in Los Angeles and the desire for a late-night dinner strikes. Rather than venturing into unfamiliar streets at odd hours, a few taps on a food delivery app bring delicious treats straight to your doorstep.
★ Don’t Forget the Common-Sense Precautions
These common-sense precautions may seem too obvious to mention, but they’re well worth going over, especially in unfamiliar terrain:
- When the sun sets, opt for group walks over solo exploration. If solo ventures are a must, stick to well-lit, bustling areas, and keep your excursions within a reasonable distance from your accommodations. Keep someone you trust informed about your travel plans. Google Maps actually is very handy in these situations, as it has a so-called Location Sharing feature in which you can add a device/s and track their whereabouts throughout the day.
- Enjoy alcohol responsibly and in moderation to retain control over your surroundings and personal safety. And, as a cardinal rule, never accept illegal substances—especially from strangers!
- For seaside safety, pack only the essentials—snacks, water, sunscreen, and cash for the day—and keep a watchful eye on the multi-colored flags. Green signals safe swimming, yellow urges caution due to light surf or currents, red prohibits swimming due to strong surf or currents, and purple indicates the presence of dangerous marine life.
- When it comes to withdrawing money, choose your location wisely. Public ATMs are often hotspots for thieves, so opt for bank ATMs and ATMs inside malls or supermarkets, where security guards are present to swiftly respond to any potential threat.
Pack Your Bags for the Adventure of a Lifetime!
North America is so vast that it can please all types of travelers—be it sun seekers, mountain explorers, or urban, festive souls.
Perhaps most importantly, we’ve underscored just how safe North America can be for visitors. With this assurance, start packing your bags for your next adventure across the continent.
Remember, while these locations are safe, it’s also essential to practice the safety tips we’ve shared throughout your journey in any foreign land.
