Bhutan Tops Quietest Countries List While Israel Ranks Among Noisiest
A new Noise-Free Nations Index, developed by travel company Go2Africa and reported by Euronews, ranks countries worldwide based on their noise levels using factors like population density, tourist density, rural areas, protected lands, vehicle density, airports, and railways. Bhutan ranks as the quietest country globally, scoring 89.44 out of 100, thanks to its vast rural landscapes, including over 39,000 square kilometers of forested mountains and valleys, and its policy of limiting tourists through a sustainable development fee, making it one of the most expensive destinations.
African countries dominate the top 25 quietest nations, with Namibia second (86.69), Botswana third (80.86), Zambia fourth (80.64), and Gabon fifth (80.61). Namibia’s low population density of 3.83 people per square kilometer and minimal tourist density contribute to its ranking. Botswana’s tourism strategy emphasizes fewer visitors but higher value. Zambia boasts one of the highest proportions of protected areas, while Gabon is known for its pristine rainforests. No European countries made the top 25; Estonia ranks highest among them at 34th, followed by Finland (39th) and Sweden (40th), due to Europe’s higher population density, tourism, and transport networks. The United States scored 45.6, while Canada was quieter at 63.1.
At the other end of the spectrum, Singapore is the noisiest country with a score of just 6.78, attributed to its urban density and limited rural areas. The Maldives ranks second (8.48), despite its tranquil resorts, because its capital Malé is one of the most densely populated cities globally. Barbados is third (10.12), affected by its small size, two airports, and frequent cruise ship noise.
Israel ranks as relatively noisy with a score of 29.8, placing it among the world’s louder countries. It is noisier than most European countries, including France (43.2), Germany (42.4), and Poland (49), and also noisier than some neighboring Middle Eastern countries like Egypt (51.8) and Saudi Arabia (65.7). Only Moldova (27), Switzerland (23.1), and the Netherlands (19.8) in Europe scored lower than Israel.
This index highlights the contrast between countries with large rural areas and controlled tourism, which tend to be quieter, and densely populated, highly urbanized nations that experience more noise pollution. The findings may encourage travelers to seek quieter destinations and policymakers to consider noise reduction strategies.
