10 Most Underrated Countries That Are Safe to Travel

Look, I get it. When I told my mom I was heading to Georgia (the country, not the state), she nearly had a heart attack.

“But isn’t that… dangerous?” she whispered, like the Georgian secret police might be listening through her kitchen walls.

I laughed, but I couldn’t blame her. Most people have no idea that some of the world’s “scary-sounding” places are actually among the safest and most welcoming I’ve ever visited.

After 12 years of traveling to 67 countries (and making plenty of embarrassing mistakes along the way), I’ve discovered that our perception of “dangerous” places is often wildly inaccurate.

So let me share my favorite surprisingly safe countries that your Instagram feed probably isn’t showing you.

💡 Tip: The best travel experiences often happen in countries your relatives have never heard of. Just be smart about it.

1. Georgia (The Country!)

The first time I walked the streets of Tbilisi at 2 AM after a wine-fueled supra feast, I had a revelation: I felt safer here than in most American cities.

Georgia sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and somehow combines the best of both. The hospitality is legendary — I’ve been pulled into family dinners by complete strangers who refused to let me pay.

Why it’s safe: Georgia has one of Europe’s lowest crime rates. Violent crime against tourists is virtually unheard of. The biggest danger? Getting stuffed with too much khachapuri (cheese bread).

What nobody tells you: The healthcare system is surprisingly good in major cities, with many doctors trained in Europe. But venture into the gorgeous mountain regions, and medical facilities become scarce.

My embarrassing story: I managed to sprain my ankle dancing (poorly) to traditional Georgian music at a village festival. The treatment at a private clinic in Tbilisi cost just $45, but the four-hour drive from the mountains was… uncomfortable. Travel insurance would have covered a much more pleasant transfer.

💡 Tip: Georgia is incredibly affordable. My boutique hotel in the heart of Tbilisi’s Old Town cost $35/night and included a breakfast that kept me full until dinner.

2. Rwanda

When I mentioned I was visiting Rwanda, people looked at me like I’d lost my mind. “Isn’t that… you know… dangerous?” they’d ask, vaguely remembering headlines from 30 years ago.

Today’s Rwanda tells a completely different story. It’s now one of Africa’s cleanest, most organized, and safest countries. The transformation is remarkable.

Why it’s safe: Rwanda has invested heavily in security and infrastructure. The streets of Kigali are spotless (seriously, they have a monthly national cleaning day), well-lit, and safe to walk at any hour. Even as a solo female traveler, I never once felt uncomfortable.

What nobody tells you: Rwanda is jaw-droppingly beautiful. They call it “The Land of a Thousand Hills” for good reason. The terraced landscapes and mountain gorilla treks will leave you speechless.

My embarrassing story: I got caught in a sudden downpour during the rainy season without a jacket. A local family not only invited me into their home but insisted on drying my clothes and feeding me dinner while we waited out the storm. Try getting that kind of hospitality in Paris!

3. Uruguay

While everyone flocks to Brazil and Argentina, their small neighbor Uruguay sits quietly, offering all the South American charm without the crowds or safety concerns.

Why it’s safe: Uruguay consistently ranks as South America’s safest country with low crime rates, progressive politics, and a laid-back vibe. The locals call themselves “Uruguayans” (ooh-roo-gwy-ans), and they’re some of the friendliest people I’ve met.

What nobody tells you: The healthcare system is excellent. Uruguay has one of Latin America’s best public healthcare systems, and private facilities in Montevideo are top-notch. Still, travel insurance is essential as private care can be costly for visitors.

My embarrassing story: I managed to get a nasty ear infection after swimming in the gorgeous beaches of Punta del Este. The small medical clinic had me fixed up in an hour. The doctor even called the next day to check on me. Total cost before insurance: $65. Try getting that level of care (or price) in the U.S.!

💡 Tip: Uruguay has the longest carnival season in the world (over 40 days). If you visit January-February, prepare for non-stop celebrations.

4. Oman

When I told friends I was traveling solo to the Middle East, they panicked. When I specified Oman, they said, “Where?”

Their confusion was my gain. Oman remains one of the Middle East’s best-kept secrets – combining stunning landscapes with genuine Arabian hospitality and remarkable safety.

Why it’s safe: Oman has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. The Omani people are incredibly hospitable, and the country’s strict laws mean problems are rare. I’ve never felt safer walking around at night than in Muscat.

What nobody tells you: The diversity of landscapes will blow your mind. In one week, I swam in wadis (natural pools), camped in the desert, hiked mountains, and explored ancient forts. It’s like several countries rolled into one.

My embarrassing story: I got my rental car stuck in desert sand because I thought my city-driving skills would magically translate to off-roading. Three Omani men spent an hour helping me dig it out, refused payment, and then invited me for coffee at their home. I still exchange emails with them five years later.

5. Slovenia

“Slovenia? Isn’t that… Slovakia? Or part of Russia or something?” – My geographically-challenged friend before I left.

Slovenia is Europe’s hidden gem, offering Alpine beauty, Mediterranean coastline, and charming villages without the crowds or prices of Italy or Austria next door.

Why it’s safe: Slovenia ranks among Europe’s safest countries with minimal crime. The infrastructure is excellent, and English is widely spoken. It’s perfect for first-time solo travelers.

What nobody tells you: The food scene is incredible. Slovenia borders Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, and the cuisine reflects this delicious cultural mashup.

My embarrassing story: I missed the last bus from Lake Bled to Ljubljana and started to panic. A local family overheard my predicament and simply offered me a ride to the capital – an hour away! They refused payment and instead asked me to “tell people how nice Slovenians are.” Consider it done.

💡 Tip: Slovenia is a paradise for outdoor activities – hiking, skiing, kayaking, and caving are all world-class. Just make sure your insurance covers adventure sports!

6. Taiwan

When I first visited Taiwan, friends confused it with Thailand. Both are amazing, but Taiwan offers a completely different experience – and safety level – than many realize.

Why it’s safe: Taiwan has remarkably low crime rates, efficient public transportation, and excellent healthcare. Even in Taipei’s night markets at 1 AM, I felt completely secure as a solo female traveler.

What nobody tells you: Taiwan has one of the world’s best healthcare systems. Many doctors are US-trained, and facilities are modern. However, costs for foreigners can be high without insurance.

My embarrassing story: I somehow managed to get a painful ear infection from swimming at Kenting’s beautiful beaches. The care at Taipei Veterans General Hospital was better than what I’ve received in the US, but the $400 bill was a shock. My travel insurance reimbursed every cent.

💡 Tip: Taiwan’s east coast is dramatically different from the urban west. Rent a scooter and explore the stunning Pacific coastline and lush mountains – just make sure your insurance covers scooter rental!

7. Botswana

When planning an African safari, most people think Kenya or Tanzania. Meanwhile, Botswana sits quietly offering some of Africa’s best wildlife viewing with far fewer tourists.

Why it’s safe: Botswana is politically stable, has a low crime rate, and has invested in sustainable, high-end tourism rather than mass market. The result? Extraordinary wildlife experiences without the crowds.

What nobody tells you: Botswana takes conservation seriously. Nearly 40% of the country is protected land. The government’s anti-poaching stance is among the strongest in Africa.

My embarrassing story: I splurged on a luxury safari camp in the Okavango Delta, only to discover my tent was… very open to nature. When I found a large frog in my shower, I embarrassingly screamed loud enough to alert three guides. They still tease me when I return. The frog was harmless, but my pride was mortally wounded.

💡 Tip: Botswana follows a “high value, low volume” tourism model, so it’s not cheap. But the experience of seeing elephants from a mokoro (traditional canoe) with no other tourists in sight? Priceless.

8. Uzbekistan

When I told my travel insurance company I was going to Uzbekistan, they actually asked me if I meant “Pakistan.” Nope, different country entirely – and one of Central Asia’s safest and most fascinating destinations.

Why it’s safe: Uzbekistan has embraced tourism with remarkable enthusiasm. The authoritarian government maintains strict security, and crime against tourists is extremely rare. I felt completely safe walking around Samarkand’s ancient sites at night.

What nobody tells you: The Silk Road architecture rivals anything in Istanbul or Iran, but with a fraction of the tourists. The blue-domed mosques and madrasas of Samarkand and Bukhara are straight out of a fairy tale.

My embarrassing story: I accidentally sat in the men’s section of a local tea house and couldn’t figure out why I was getting strange looks. A kind elderly man eventually explained my error through hand gestures and guided me to the family section. We ended up sharing a meal despite having no common language.

💡 Tip: Uzbekistan has recently simplified its visa process for many nationalities. Check if you qualify for e-visa or visa-free entry – it’s much easier than just a few years ago.

9. Costa Rica

“But isn’t Latin America dangerous?” my neighbor asked when I mentioned my Costa Rica trip.

This common misconception keeps many travelers from experiencing one of the world’s most biodiverse and visitor-friendly countries.

Why it’s safe: Costa Rica abolished its military in 1949 and invested in education and conservation instead. The result is Latin America’s most stable democracy with a focus on sustainable tourism. Violent crime against tourists is rare.

What nobody tells you: The healthcare system is excellent – many Americans actually travel there for medical procedures. However, costs for tourists can be high without insurance, especially for adventure-related injuries.

My embarrassing story: I foolishly went ziplining during rainy season without checking the forecast. Halfway through the course, a tropical downpour hit. I ended up drenched, muddy, and with a minor wrist sprain from gripping the line too tightly. The local clinic provided excellent care, but the $280 bill was a wake-up call about adventure sports coverage.

You can find comprehensive travel insurance with adventure sports coverage here.

💡 Tip: Costa Rica’s famous “pura vida” (pure life) philosophy isn’t just marketing – it’s a genuine approach to life that prioritizes well-being and happiness over material things. Embrace it.

10. Vietnam

Vietnam still conjures war images for many Americans, but today’s reality couldn’t be more different. Modern Vietnam is vibrant, developing rapidly, and remarkably safe for travelers.

Why it’s safe: Violent crime is rare in Vietnam, and the biggest risks for tourists are petty theft and traffic accidents. The country has embraced tourism, and the Vietnamese people are among the most welcoming I’ve encountered.

What nobody tells you: Vietnam’s healthcare has improved dramatically in major cities. International hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer excellent care, though costs can be high without insurance. Rural areas have much more limited facilities.

My embarrassing story: I rented a motorbike in Hoi An despite having minimal experience. One wrong turn later, I found myself stuck in a rice paddy with a sprained ankle and a damaged bike. A local farmer not only helped me out but invited me home where his wife (a nurse) wrapped my ankle. The bike repairs and medical care would have cost hundreds without insurance.

💡 Tip: Vietnam’s street food is incredible but choose busy stalls where locals eat. My rule: if the plastic stools are filled with Vietnamese people, it’s a safe bet.

The Safety Reality Check

Here’s what 12 years of traveling to “scary” places has taught me:

1. News coverage distorts reality: Countries with past conflicts often have current safety levels that would shame many Western nations.
2. Tourist areas are usually safe: Even in countries with higher crime rates, areas where visitors go are typically well-protected.
3. Common sense works everywhere: The same precautions you take at home (not flashing wealth, staying aware) work globally.
4. Local knowledge is gold: Ask hotel staff, not internet forums, about which areas to avoid.
5. Healthcare quality varies wildly: Even “safe” countries can have healthcare gaps, making insurance essential.

💡 Tip: In many “underrated” countries, the biggest genuine risk isn’t crime – it’s traffic accidents or adventure activities gone wrong. That’s why insurance with good medical evacuation coverage matters.

Why Insurance Matters in “Safe” Countries

I learned this lesson the hard way in Slovenia – arguably Europe’s safest country.

While hiking in Triglav National Park, I slipped and sprained my ankle badly. The location was remote, and I needed helicopter evacuation to Ljubljana. The total bill? €5,200 (about $5,800).

My travel insurance covered every cent. Without it, my “budget trip” to a “safe country” would have become my most expensive vacation ever.

The pattern repeats across these “safe but underrated” destinations:

• In Georgia, private healthcare is affordable but mountain rescues are extremely costly
• Rwanda has good healthcare in Kigali, but medical evacuation from gorilla trekking areas is expensive
• Vietnam’s traffic makes scooter accidents common, and international-standard care isn’t cheap

If you’re planning a trip to any of these incredible places, make sure your adventure is protected with proper insurance. You can compare plans specifically designed for these destinations here.

Final Thoughts

My most magical travel experiences have almost all happened in countries that made my family nervous when I announced my plans.

That quiet temple in Taiwan where an elderly man taught me calligraphy for hours.

The homestay in Vietnam where three generations insisted I learn to make proper spring rolls.

The Georgian mountain village where a wedding party pulled me in to dance despite my terrible moves.

These moments happen in places most travelers overlook because of outdated perceptions about safety.

So go. Explore the underrated gems. Just do it smartly – with open eyes, proper research, and yes, good insurance.

The world is far safer and more welcoming than headlines suggest. And that’s something worth discovering for yourself.

Which of these countries intrigues you most? I’d love to know where you’re dreaming of visiting next!