Iceland named safest country in the world again
Iceland has once again been ranked the world’s most peaceful country, holding the top position in the 2026 Global Peace Index for the 19th year in a row.
The ranking reinforces Iceland’s reputation as one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Low crime, strong social trust, no standing army and a calm everyday atmosphere all help explain why Iceland continues to stand out internationally.
Planning a trip? Read our full guide to why Iceland is the safest country in the world, browse day tours in Iceland or explore our Iceland Travel Guide before you arrive.
✓ Visiting Iceland this year?
Iceland’s top safety ranking is reassuring for travelers, but safe travel still means checking weather, road conditions and local advice before heading into the countryside.
Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the 19th year
The Global Peace Index is published by the Institute for Economics & Peace and compares peacefulness across 163 countries and territories. The index looks at areas such as societal safety and security, ongoing conflict and militarisation.
In the 2026 ranking, Iceland remains in first place, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia and Ireland. Iceland has now held the number one position for 19 consecutive years, an unusually long run at the top of a global ranking.
Why Iceland ranks so highly
Iceland’s strong position is linked to several factors that matter both for residents and visitors. The country has no standing army, very low levels of violent crime, strong public institutions and a high level of social trust.
For travelers, this is part of what makes Iceland feel so welcoming. Reykjavík is easy to explore, small towns feel calm, and guided tours around the country are well organised. Many visitors quickly notice that Iceland feels more relaxed than most destinations.
What the ranking means for travelers
For visitors, Iceland’s safety ranking is good news. It supports what many travelers already experience on the ground: a destination where people generally feel comfortable walking around, asking for help, joining tours and exploring the country.
At the same time, Iceland’s biggest travel risks are usually not crime-related. The country’s weather, roads, ocean waves, glaciers, geothermal areas and winter conditions can change quickly. Visitors should still prepare carefully, especially when driving or visiting remote areas.
Safe country, powerful nature
Iceland may be one of the safest countries in the world, but the landscape deserves respect. Strong winds, icy roads, sneaker waves at black sand beaches and sudden weather changes can affect travel plans at any time of year.
Before driving in Iceland, travelers should check official road and weather information. For outdoor trips, glacier activities, ice caves and winter routes, guided tours are often the safest and most comfortable way to explore.
What travelers should know
- Iceland is ranked number one in the 2026 Global Peace Index.
- The country has held the top position for 19 years in a row.
- The 2026 top five are Iceland, New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia and Ireland.
- Iceland is known for low crime, strong social trust and no standing army.
- Travelers should still take weather, roads and natural hazards seriously.
- The emergency number in Iceland is 112.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Iceland is widely described as one of the safest countries in the world. In the 2026 Global Peace Index, Iceland was ranked the world’s most peaceful country for the 19th year in a row.
Iceland ranks highly because of low crime, low levels of conflict, no standing army, strong institutions and high social trust. These factors help make Iceland feel calm and reassuring for both residents and visitors.
Yes. Iceland is very safe for tourists from a crime perspective. Visitors should still prepare for natural conditions, especially strong wind, winter roads, black sand beaches, glaciers and sudden weather changes.
Travelers should check the weather forecast, road conditions and official safety advice before driving or heading into nature. This is especially important in winter, in remote areas and before glacier or mountain activities.
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Explore Iceland beyond Stranger Things
Full-day horse riding tour from Reykjavik through rivers, lava sand and green valleys with views of Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull.
Ride across Iceland’s black sand beaches on an ATV adventure to the iconic DC-3 plane wreck on the South Coast.
Walk on the ice of Sólheimajökull with a certified guide. A safe and unforgettable glacier experience.
Super Jeep into Þórsmörk for a guided hike past birch forests, rivers and epic glacier views.