LGBT Travel In Africa: The Safest Destinations

Does gay-friendly travel even exist in Africa? It absolutely does!

Africa is a massive continent. It covers 20% of Earth’s land mass and nearly as much of the population as well (18%, or 1.4 billion people). It’s also home to 54 separate countries. We visit many of them, and they come with a broad range of cultures, traditions, and – most importantly – LGBTQ+ acceptance. There are definite no-go zones, and we’ve even canceled certain destinations when progress took a turn in the wrong direction. However, there are many reasons why queer people would want to visit Africa that don’t revolve around sexual identity or Pride. The world’s best safaris are in Africa, along with ancient wonders and jaw-dropping topography. And don’t get us started on Northern Africa’s distinctive spices and aromas. Here’s the lowdown on the safest destinations for LGBT travel in Africa!

NOTE: This blog is meant to be a resource for LGBTQ+ travellers considering a trip to Africa. We realize there are strong opinions about whether or not our community should boycott many of these countries altogether. To understand how our trips support the local LGBTQ-owned businesses and queer community wherever we travel, we encourage you to read our blog To Book…or Boycott?

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Safest Places In Africa To Visit

South Africa

Why save the best for last? South Africa, in no uncertain terms, is the most LGBTQ-welcoming destination on the continent. It was the first country in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation and the fifth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage.

Cape Town and Johannesburg both have thriving gay scenes, and Cape Town is also a global gay-cation hotspot (you can check out our guide here). You’ll find beautiful beaches, hoppin’ nightlife, incredible food, and welcoming vibes.

But even in progressive South Africa, rural areas remain regressive (though the same can be said for Canada and Scandinavia, some of the most progressive places on Earth). Along with 5 days in Cape Town, our trip cranks it up a notch by including Victoria Falls, Botswana’s Chobe National Park, and a 5-star all-inclusive safari lodge at Sabi Sands. What’s even better? We visit twice a year! Learn more here, or check out our in-depth trip spotlight below.

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Madagascar

Known for its incredible biodiversity, the island of Madagascar is home to species that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. Think lemurs, chameleons, and the Madagascar pochard, famously the rarest duck in the world!

Visitors can explore the unearthly Avenue of the Baobabs, relax on pristine beaches in Nosy Be, or hike through surreal limestone formations in Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park.

Madagascar is relatively safe for LGBTQ+ travelers compared to some other African countries, as same-sex activity is not criminalized, and there are no laws specifically targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. Urban centers like Antananarivo tend to be more open-minded, but like anywhere else, it’s important to respect local customs and be mindful of cultural norms.

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Namibia

With its arid deserts, monstrous sand dunes, and stunning coastlines, The Land of Many Faces is an emerging destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. A German colony throughout the early twentieth century, Namibia gained independence in 1990 and is home to two of the oldest tribes in Africa: the Bushmen and the San People. It’s also home to some of the most monstrous sand dunes on Earth!

Same-sex relations between men are technically illegal but rarely enforced. The High Court of Namibia ruled the crimes of “sodomy” and “unnatural sexual offenses” were unconstitutional and invalid in June 2024. And the First Lady of Namibia from 2015-2024 (when her husband died), Monica Geingos, is in favor of LGBTQ+ rights. She has called for sodomy and homosexuality to be decriminalized. Still, Namibia is a conservative country, so public displays of affection (gay or straight) are discouraged. Learn about our upcoming trip here.

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Botswana

The Pearl of Africa is also one of its most politically stable countries. Visitors come for the natural beauty, wild safaris, and countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Botswana’s first gay rights group (LEGABIBO) won legal recognition in 2014, and trans people have the right to change their legal gender. Interestingly, the nomadic Khoikhoi people recognized same-sex relations without judgment as far back as the 18th century. Following some colonial tomfoolery, homosexuality was only legalized in 2019, but tourist sites and cosmopolitan centers have long welcomed LGBTQ+ travellers while the High Court continues to constantly rule in favor of queer progress.

The first Gaborone Pride was held in 2019, just a few months after the Botswana High Court decriminalized homosexuality in a historic ruling. Now an annual event, it features musical acts, DJs, and a parade. Like Namibia, PDAs are discouraged…but you might see straight men holding hands. 🤷🏼‍♂️ Learn about our all-inclusive bush camp adventure in Botswana here.

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Angola

From the golden beaches of the Atlantic coast to the lush rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls of the interior, Angola offers a surprisingly diverse range of landscapes.

The spectacular Kalandula Falls–one of Africa’s largest waterfalls–is an essential stop, while the surreal desert dunes of Namib offer an otherworldly charm.

Since decriminalizing same-sex relationships in 2019, Angola has also taken a significant step toward embracing inclusivity. It’s also one of the few African countries to explicitly ban employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. While societal norms may still lean conservative, and gay marriage and adoption remain illegal, the country offers a welcoming atmosphere, especially in urban areas like Luanda.

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Safe To Visit, But Use Caution

These destinations may have anti-LGBTQ+ laws. However, as long as visitors behave respectfully and dress appropriately, they’re unlikely to face any issues.

Rwanda

Plenty of nations offer safaris featuring Africa’s Big Five game animals, but if you’re after a gorilla trek, Rwanda is where you’ll want to go!

Homosexual activity is legal here, and it’s the most LGBTQ-friendly country in East Africa, but gay marriage is still not recognized and homophobia runs rampant (everything is relative). While instances are rare, locals have been harassed and arrested by the police.

Following the tragic genocide of 1994, the country is flourishing. Tribal divisions have turned to unity. There’s mandatory education and universal healthcare. And as of 2022, Rwanda’s parliament boasts the highest percentage of women in the world at 61.3%. It’s also one of the few African nations to sign the United Nations joint statement condemning violence against LGBTQ+ people. If you want to visit on your own, you can readily hire local gay tour guides, However, visiting with an all-LGBTQ+ group can help to make the most out of the trip!

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Tanzania

Considering you can embark on an iconic safari, hike to the top of Kilimanjaro–the world’s largest free-standing mountain–or descend into the depths of the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Tanzania is a spectacular destination for both nature lovers and active adventurers.

Unfortunately, same-sex activity remains illegal, but discretion goes a long way. With such a robust tourism industry, they are accustomed to welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers. However, we are reminded of America’s old stance on gays in the military: don’t ask, don’t tell. Frankly, even straight couples are discouraged from provocative displays of affection, especially on the Muslim coast and in Zanzibar. While visiting on your own is possible, let’s face it – it’d be way more fun with a gay group tour.

Fortunately, we have two trips to Tanzania – one will take you on a wild Serengeti safari while the other allows you to safely summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, an accomplishment that few can tout. What’s even better? We’ve scheduled these trips back-to-back, allowing guests to do both! You can also extend your trip with the aforementiond Gorilla Trek in Rwanda, should you be so inclined.

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Kenya

The safaris and savannahs of Kenya are incomparable. And hey, it’s home to the great wildebeest migration, an astonishing sight which must be seen to be believed, and Masai Mara National Park is *chef’s kiss.*

However, sodomy is illegal and punishable by imprisonment. Same-sex marriage is banned, with 90% of Kenyans opposed to it as recently as 2023. And families routinely disown LGBTQ+ members. Prosecution is rare, but it does happen. The good news is that progress is slowly beginning to turn the tide.

Guests on safari will be warmly welcomed, and our experienced guides will quickly become your friends along the way. On top of that, we’ll meet with members of a local tribe to learn about their way of life. All the details of our trip can be found here!

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Safe To Visit With A Group

These next two destinations are the most contentious. Outwardly, they’re not gay-friendly at all. But they’re both brimming with incomparable cultures, geography, and history worth experiencing in person. The safest way to explore them is on a group tour. We’ve run countless trips to both nations and have never had an issue. We also train our partners on diversity and inclusion.

NOTE: We recommend avoiding the use of LGBTQ+ apps such as Grindr and Scruff. There have been instances when foreigners were targeted by locals for petty theft using the apps. Out of an abundance of caution, we recommend removing those apps from your phone entirely during your visit. If you choose to meet anyone from an app, ensure you’ve told someone where you are going and who you are going with. 

Morocco

Although Morocco is one of the more homophobic countries in Africa, it’s also one of our most popular destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers.

The kingdom hasn’t always been this hostile, and the port town of Tangier was actually the world’s first gaycation destination. Marrakech was home to the late (and exceedingly homosexual) French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner (also a homosexual, funny enough). Just remember to avoid PDAs, especially if you’re a woman, as you’re at increased risk of harassment. But we have a great network of friendly guides and businesses that welcome and look out for us.

Despite the politics, there’s a reason Morocco remains one of our most popular destinations since we launched nearly 20 years ago. You’ll be well looked after, and the spices, aromas, and energy of each medina will have you wondering why you waited so long to visit. Learn about our Tangier to Marrakech tour here!

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Egypt

Despite its anti-LGBTQ+ laws, Egypt remains a huge tourist draw for many reasons – you just have to plan accordingly. Whether or not you’re gay, the key is to travel as part of a reputable group tour. It’s the easiest way to steer clear of modern scam artists and pickpockets while studying one of ancient history’s most alluring civilizations when pharaohs ruled, pyramids were built, and gods made lore.

If you opt to go it alone as an LGBTQ+ traveler, discretion may not be enough. Law enforcement can track you down through dating apps, so don’t come here looking for sexy time. Smaller hotels and cities will definitely raise an eye if they think you’re gay. It’s also unsafe for women to travel alone.

By joining a group trip, you’ll be able to safely learn about Egyptian culture, marvel at cynosures like the Great Pyramids or the Sphinx, and have a blast while floating leisurely down the Nile River. Our trips depart twice a year and all the details can be found here!

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LGBTQ+ Travel Not Recommended

We won’t sugarcoat it – there are over 30 African nations that have laws that criminalize same-sex relationships. Some impose severe penalties, including imprisonment and even death. In addition to legal risks, travellers may also face discrimination and harassment. Not to mention, some of these places are experiencing active conflict (read: war). As a result, travel to these countries is generally not recommended.

• Nigeria
• Uganda
• Ghana
• Senegal
• Cameroon
• Somalia
• Tunisia
• Malawi
• Sudan
• Mauritania
• Sierra Leone
• Burkina Faso
• Mali
• The Gambia

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In all cases, LGBT travel in Africa is safest with a group. But with the proper caution, it can be done on your own.

Regardless of politics, religion, and general vibes about the LGBTQ+ community, every destination we visit is carefully considered and curated. We’ve been there and vetted the entire experience. If you’re intrigued but have questions, we’d be happy to chat more. Just shoot us an email at info@outadventures.com or reach out to us here.