Pride Safaris
WELCOME TO AFRICA with Pride
Africa is bold, beautiful, and filled with life-changing moments — and everyone deserves to experience its magic. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, LGBTQ+ travelers will discover warm hospitality, inclusive spaces, and unforgettable moments.
Dear Traveler,
I’ve seen firsthand how travel can shift perspectives—of places, people, and ourselves. As an openly gay African, this has deep personal meaning and inspires everything we do at African Travel.
There’s a common misconception that Africa isn’t welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. But the reality is far more diverse—and increasingly hopeful. South Africa, my home, was the first country in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation and legalized same-sex marriage in 2006. Cape Town’s De Waterkant is a lively LGBTQ+ hub, but what leaves the deepest impression is the genuine warmth and kindness of the people.
While some countries still hold more conservative views, many are embracing progress. From Botswana and Mozambique to Rwanda and recently Namibia, we’re seeing growing acceptance and steps toward equality. These countries also offer some of Africa’s most unforgettable experiences— from private safaris to rich cultures and stunning coastlines.
At African Travel, we believe travel should be inclusive, empowering, and unforgettable. That’s why we design every journey with trusted local partners and meaningful details—so every guest feels welcomed, safe, and free to be themselves.
Sherwin Banda
President, African Travel, Inc.
WHY LGBTQ+ TRAVELERS CHOOSE
African Travel
As the longest-running US-based tour operator focused exclusively on Africa, we’re proud to design personalized journeys for all travelers—including the LGBTQ+ community.
• WE KNOW AFRICA
Nearly 50 years of African travel expertise means we know where LGBTQ+ travelers will feel safe, respected, and embraced.
• TAILORED ITINERARIES
Your personal safari expert designs a unique journey to reflect your travel style and interests.
• TRUS TED, INCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATIONS
We work only with lodges, hotels, and guides who are LGBTQ+-friendly, trained in inclusivity, and committed to guest well-being.
• ALL INCLUSIVE PLANNING
From international flights and private transfers to immersive activities and curated lodges, we handle every detail.
• VIP AIRPORT SERVICES
Enjoy VIP meet-and-greet, security assistance, luxury transfers, and departure lounge access on most custom and escorted itineraries.
• ME ANINGFUL ENCOUNTERS
Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences provide authentic cultural engagement while supporting diversity and local communities.
• L UXURY TOUCHES
Enjoy thoughtful surprises, elevated amenities, and personalized service that add magic to every step of your journey.
• 24/7 SUPPORT
Relax and explore with confidence—our team is available around the clock to ensure a seamless, worry-free experience.
LGBTQ+ WELCOMING
Destinations
These countries are widely regarded as safe and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers, especially in tourism centers, with legal protections and inclusive service culture.
South Africa
The only African country where same-sex marriage is legal nationwide and anti-discrimination protections are written into the constitution. Cape Town is a global LGBTQ+ travel icon.
THE VIBE: With diverse experiences from city to safari, South Africa offers a seamless blend of style, substance, and inclusivity—ideal for both first-time and repeat travelers.
EXPERIENCES: Hike or ride the cable car up Table Mountain, explore the Winelands, take a private tour of Cape Peninsula, visit Robben Island, and spot the Big Five in private game reserves.
ACCOMMODATIONS: LGBTQ-friendly luxury stays in Cape Town, Franschhoek, and private reserves like Shamwari and Sabi Sand.
Botswana
Same-sex relationships have been legal since 2019, and the country has a strong tradition of peacefulness and respect.
THE VIBE: Botswana’s low-impact tourism model means fewer crowds, outstanding wildlife, and a deep sense of privacy—plan ahead to secure space at its most sought-after lodges.
EXPERIENCES: Explore the Okavango Delta by mokoro, see elephants in Chobe, or sleep under the stars in the Kalahari Desert.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Intimate and ultraluxurious safari camps that offer discreet, welcoming service in exclusive wildlife settings.
Rwanda
Same-sex is legal, and while public LGBTQ+ visibility is limited, travelers generally report feeling safe and welcome.
THE VIBE: Known for its safety and sustainability, Rwanda offers meaningful travel—from gorilla trekking to cultural immersion—in a setting that values privacy and purpose.
EXPERIENCES: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Big 5 safaris in Akagera National park, canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest, and exploring Kigali’s vibrant art scene, markets, and memorials.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Intimate, luxurious lodges— such as those by Wilderness, Singita, and One&Only - blend exceptional service with a strong focus on conservation and community.
Namibia
In 2023, Namibia’s Supreme Court recognized foreign LGBTQ+ marriages, followed by the 2024 decriminalization of consensual same-sex relationships. Popular tourist destinations offer a welcoming and safe environment for visitors
THE VIBE: Namibia’s vast, surreal landscapes and low tourist density offer a rare blend of solitude and style—perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking serenity.
EXPERIENCES: Climb the dunes of Sossusvlei, explore the Skeleton Coast, track desert-adapted animals in Damaraland, enjoy game drives in Etosha National Park, and visit the Himba tribe.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Striking desert lodges and coastal hideaways like Shipwreck Lodge offer distinctive design, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere.
INCLUSIVE ISLAND & Beach Escapes
Seychelles
Resorts are discreet yet inclusive, with service rooted in warmth and privacy.
IDEAL FOR: Ultra-luxury escapes with overwater villas, fine dining, and exceptional service in one of the world’s most exclusive island destinations.
Mozambique
Private island resorts provide safe, secluded, and LGBTQ+ friendly escapes. While some regions remain conservative, travelers enjoy warm hospitality and privacy in stunning coastal settings.
IDEAL FOR: Barefoot beach escapes with laidback luxury—snorkeling, vibrant marine life, and endless views from remote island retreats.
Mauritius
The 2023 court ruling decriminalizing samesex relations marks a significant step toward inclusivity, especially within the island’s progressive hospitality sector.
IDEAL FOR: Sophisticated beachside retreats, vibrant local culture, an array of water activities, and indulgent spa experiences—all embraced with a modern, welcoming spirit.
OTHER AFRICAN Destinations
Countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have laws that criminalize same-sex relationships. Even so, LGBTQ+ travelers continue to visit iconic destinations such as the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Victoria Falls, where international tourism is well established. While these laws rarely affect visitors, discretion is recommended due to prevailing attitudes.
If you wish to visit these destinations, we’ll guide you with care—connecting you with trusted lodges and experienced partners who prioritize your comfort and safety.
INCLUSIVE Accommodations
From remote luxury lodges to stylish city hotels and romantic beachfront villas, our curated accommodations offer LGBTQ+ travelers a warm welcome, privacy, and comfort throughout their African adventure.
LUXURY SAFARI LODGES
These permanent, architecturally built retreats offer refined comfort in remote wilderness settings. Enjoy spacious suites with panoramic views, private plunge pools, and serene lounges—ideal for unwinding in privacy after a day of exploration.
ELEGANT TENTED CAMPS
Channeling the spirit of classic safaris, these canvas camps combine nostalgic charm with contemporary comforts. With en suite bathrooms, plush furnishings, and often just a handful of tents, they offer a quiet, intimate base close to nature.
STYLISH CITY STAYS
Contemporary hotels and boutique hideaways in major cities like Cape Town provide easy access to iconic sights, restaurants, and nightlife. These urban sanctuaries offer personalized service, sleek design, and a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
BEACHFRONT VILLAS
In destinations like the Seychelles, Mozambique or Mauritius, unwind in ocean-facing villas designed for privacy and tranquility. With direct beach access, private pools, and tailored service, these island escapes are the perfect way to end a safari in style.
AFRICAN SAFARI Experiences
Whether traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with family, the way you experience Africa will be uniquely yours. But wherever your journey takes you, here are some of the unforgettable moments that make safaris so extraordinary.
SCENIC FLIGHTS & BALLOON RIDES
Take to the skies for sweeping views over dramatic landscapes like Namibia’s desert, Botswana’s wetlands, or South Africa’s coast.
SPA & WELLNESS IN NATURE
Reconnect with yourself and your surroundings through wellness experiences that range from outdoor massages to yoga with a view.
SUNSET
CRUISE & WATER SAFARIS
Drift quietly through pristine waterways by mokoro, boat, or dhow—perfect for peaceful reflection or shared celebration.
BUSH & BEACH ESCAPES
Pair your safari with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters in Mauritius, Mozambique, or the Seychelles.
GAME DRIVES
Set out in search of wildlife with expert guides. From lion sightings at dusk to elephants crossing open plains, every drive brings new surprises.
STARGAZING & SLEEPOUTS
Fall asleep under Africa’s brilliant skies in remote lodges that invite you to disconnect and dream.
IMMERSIVE CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS
Gain insights into Africa’s rich heritage by connecting with local communities through music, dance, crafts, and storytelling.
WALKING SAFARIS
Explore on foot with a trained guide, tuning in to the smaller wonders of the bush and experiencing the wilderness up close.
PRIVATE DINING IN THE WILD
From lantern-lit dinners under the stars to gourmet bush breakfasts, dining becomes part of the adventure.
SAMPLE Itineraries
AFRICAN ROMANCE
4 Nights Cape Town, 3 Nights Kruger Private Reserve, South Africa
4 Nights Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
HIGHLIGHTS
• Discover Cape Town’s dramatic coastlines, colorful neighborhoods, and artisan flavors on guided experiences tailored for two.
• Experience thrilling game drives and candlelit bush dinners in a private Kruger reserve, where luxury meets the wild.
• Indulge in barefoot luxury on a remote Mozambican island—private beach picnics, sunset toasts, and your own oceanfront villa.
• Explore the Bazaruto Archipelago on a private island-hopping excursion, complete with dune hikes, snorkeling, and champagne by the sea.
• Travel in style with curated flights and a scenic helicopter transfer over Mozambique’s glittering archipelago.
SOUTH AFRICA PRIVATE VILLA
4 Nights Cape Town, 3 Nights Tswalu, 3 Nights Kruger Private Reserve
HIGHLIGHTS
• Stay in Cape Town’s most exclusive clifftop villa with sweeping ocean views and curated access to top galleries, winelands, and coastal landmarks.
• Explore the Cape Peninsula in style—drive Chapman’s Peak, visit the Cape of Good Hope, and see penguins at Boulders Beach.
• Indulge in private wine tastings paired with cutting-edge art in the Cape Winelands’ most celebrated estates.
• Experience an exclusive Kalahari desert safari at Tswalu, South Africa’s largest private reserve, renowned for rare wildlife and conservation.
• Spot cheetahs, pangolin, aardvarks, and more on personalized safaris, or ride across red dunes on horseback.
• Discover Big Five territory in Kruger private reserve with expert guides, gourmet dining, and intimate luxury at Royal Malewane’s Farmstead.
CAPE TOWN & BOTSWANA
4 nights Cape Town, 3 nights Okavango Delta
HIGHLIGHTS
• Stay in style at the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, with ocean views, mountain trails, and top-tier pampering.
• Tailor each day to your interests—unwind at the spa, sip cocktails with a view, or head out on a private tour.
• Explore Cape Town, from the vibrant V&A Waterfront to LGBTQ+-friendly De Waterkant.
• Indulge in high design and luxury at Xigera Safari Lodge, perhaps spend a night in the sculptural Baobab Treehouse.
• Embrace safari living with wild bush dining, sundowners, spa rituals, and stargazing beneath open skies.
• Encounter the Delta’s wildlife by mokoro, glassbottom boat, walking safari, or classic game drive.
DISCOVER RWANDA
2 Nights Kigali, 3 Nights Akagera National Park, 4 Nights Volcanoes National Park
HIGHLIGHTS
• Experience Kigali in style with VIP arrival service and an indulgent stay at an eco-friendly, solar-powered luxury resort.
• Connect with local culture on a visit to the Nyamirambo Women’s Center for an inspiring, community-led encounter.
• Explore Akagera National Park, spotting the Big 5 and over 500 bird species on game drives, boat safaris, and walking adventures.
• Fly over Rwanda’s dramatic landscapes by helicopter as you journey to your rainforest lodge in Volcanoes National Park.
• Embark on life-changing gorilla treks and encounter mountain gorillas up close in the lush Virunga Mountains.
• Track golden monkeys and visit the Dian Fossey Campus to learn about vital gorilla conservation efforts.
• Stay at the luxurious and eco-conscious Bisate Lodge, plant a tree with Bisate’s agronomists, and contribute to longterm reforestation.
ULTIMATE BOTSWANA
1 night Johannesburg, 3 nights Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, 3 nights Okavango Delta , 3 nights Moremi Game Reserve
HIGHLIGHTS
• Encounter surreal landscapes in the vast Makgadikgadi Pans—walk with Bushmen, meet meerkats, and quad bike across endless salt flats.
• Explore the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on water safaris, game drives, and optional scenic flights.
• Discover wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve, where lion, leopard, and wild dog roam across floodplains and forests.
• Stay in iconic camps, from the romantic canvas of Jack’s Camp to the seclusion North Island Okavango and the elegance of Tawana.
• Enjoy scenic flights and helicopter transfers connecting Botswana’s most remote and unforgettable regions.
DESERTS AND DUNES OF NAMIBIA
1 Night Windhoek, 2 Nights NamibRand Nature Reserve, 2 Nights Kaokoland, 2 Nights Skeleton Coast,2 Nights Etosha National Park
HIGHLIGHTS
• Discover the dunes of Sossusvlei, where burnt-orange landscapes and star-filled skies create one of Africa’s most iconic desert scenes.
• Explore the Skeleton Coast, flying over shipwrecks and shifting sands to reach one of the continent’s most remote wilderness areas.
• Track desert-adapted wildlife, including elephant, rhino, and lion, on exclusive game drives through private reserves.
• Connect with the Himba people, gaining insight into one of Africa’s last semi-nomadic cultures.
• Stay in Namibia’s most iconic lodges, from stargazing suites in the NamibRand to the dramatic Shipwreck Lodge where the desert meets the sea.
LGBTQ+ TRAVEL Frequently Asked Questions
Q. IS AFRICA A SAFE DESTINATION FOR LGBTQ+ TRAVELERS?
A. Yes—with thoughtful planning. While over 30 African countries criminalize same-sex relationships, many LGBTQ+ travelers explore the continent safely by focusing on destinations with legal protections and welcoming reputations.
Q. WHICH AFRICAN C OUNTRIES ARE THE MOS T L GBTQ+-FRIENDLY?
A. South Africa stands out as the most progressive, with strong legal protections and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Botswana and Rwanda are known for their safety and respectful attitudes, while Namibia recently decriminalized same-sex relationships. Seychelles, Mauritius, and Mozambique offer exceptional beach escapes and welcoming experiences in popular tourist areas.
Q. CAN WE TRAVEL TO DE STINATIONS WHERE S AME-SEX RELATIONSHIPS ARE ILLE GAL?
A. Many LGBTQ+ travelers still visit popular safari areas in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. While public displays of affection is not advised, our vetted accommodation partners and guides ensure a smooth and respectful experience. If you wish to go, we’ll help navigate your options.
Q. ARE THERE LGBTQ+ FRIENDLY PROPERTIES AND EXPERIENCES?
A. Absolutely. We partner with lodges and guides who are not only welcoming but are also undergoing sensitivity training to ensure all travelers are treated equally and feel safe and respected throughout their journey.
Q. CAN TRIPS BE CUSTOMIZED TO MATCH OUR PREFERENCES AND COMFORT LEVELS?
A. Absolutely. Every journey is tailored to you—whether you’re traveling as a same-sex couple solo, or with a group or family. We’ll build your itinerary to reflect your travel style, interests, and privacy needs.
Q. ARE THERE PROPERTIES THAT CATER SPECIFICALLY TO LGBTQ+ TRAVELERS?
A. While few are explicitly LGBTQ+-only, many luxury lodges are known for their inclusive, discreet service and private settings ideal for all couples. Our safari experts will guide you to the best options.
Q. WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATIONS?
A. You can expect spacious suites or tents with elegant, thoughtful touches—such as canopied beds, stylish en suite bathrooms, comfortable indoor lounges, and decks with daybeds, outdoor bathtubs, or private plunge pools.
Q. WILL WE HAVE PRIVACY AT THE LODGES?
A. Definitely. Accommodations are designed with seclusion in mind— built with ample space between suites and screened by natural vegetation, the layout ensures you can relax in total privacy—even outdoors.
Q. CAN LGBTQ+ COUPLES SHARE A ROOM IN SAFARI LODGES?
A. Yes. In all the properties we recommend, same-sex couples are welcomed and accommodated without issue.
Q. CAN WE CELEBRATE A SPECIAL OCCASION LIKE A HONEYMOON?
A. Of course! We arrange LGBTQ+ honeymoons, anniversaries, and celebrations with the same care and joy as any romantic journey.
Q. DO LGBTQ+ PRIDE EVENTS HAPPEN IN AFRICA?
A. Yes. Cape Town Pride is the largest, held annually in February. Other events exist in Mauritius, Namibia, and select cities.
Q. WHAT IF PEOPLE IN MY PARTY HAVE DIFFERENT INTERESTS?
A. Many lodges cater to a range of preferences, offering everything from game drives and spa treatments to cultural visits and hands-on classes. Some have kids’ clubs and family-friendly activities, making it easy for everyone to enjoy their own mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Q. DO WE HAVE TO SHARE GAME DRIVES WITH OTHERS?
A. Shared game drives are common, but private vehicles can be arranged. Booking a private villa or exclusive-use camp typically includes your own guide and safari vehicle.
Q. WHAT SHOULD WE PACK FOR SAFARI?
A. Safari is casual—neutral layers, comfortable shoes, and a hat for sun protection are perfect. For cooler mornings and evenings, especially in Southern Africa’s winter (June–August), bring a warm jacket and a hat. Luxury lodges offer laundry service, so you can pack light.
Q. CAN DIETARY RESTRICTIONS BE ACCOMMODATED?
A. Yes. With advance notice, most lodges can accommodate vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, halal, or allergysensitive meals.
Q. DO WE NEED A VISA OR VACCINATIONS?
A. Visa and vaccination requirements vary by country and passport. We’ll provide guidance based on your itinerary, but you should consult a travel clinic about Yellow Fever and malaria prevention.
Q. WILL THERE BE WI-FI ON SAFARI?
A. Most high-end lodges offer Wi-Fi in rooms or main areas, though connection can be spotty in remote regions. Many travelers find it refreshing to unplug and fully enjoy the experience.
