LGBTQ+
Travel Africa
Organising a journey to Africa for the LGBTQ+ community might involve a few extra layers of consideration due to the varied laws and attitudes across the continent. There are areas of Africa that are quite open-hearted and welcoming to the community, yet, it's important to note that other regions may hold viewpoints that aren't as forward-thinking regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
I'm still immersing myself in this aspect of travel, so I appreciate your patience as I continue to gather knowledge, generate more content, and create fresh itineraries for you.
Welcome to the Travelling Wakili
I'm thrilled to introduce and support a distinctive travel company, The Travelling Wakili, which crafts journeys with a heart. Rooted deeply in the spirit of Africa, they specialise in curating safe and inclusive safari experiences exclusively for women and the LGBTQ+ community.
The core beliefs revolve around sustainability, equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring every traveller feels seen, celebrated, and safe. Intrigued by the unique name? 'Wakili' is Swahili for 'lawyer', so essentially, they’re your 'Travelling Lawyer'— advocating for unforgettable adventures while upholding the values that matter most to the community. Check out their group trips below, where the wild meets warmth and inclusivity.
Kenyan Group Trips
For all trips check out The Travelling Wakili trips calendar
Tsavo Bi+ Only
With limited spaces designed especially for the bisexual community, this journey offers an opportunity for us to connect and unite over our mutual identity in the wilderness.
30th - 1st October ‘24
Lamu Yoga Festival
The Lamu Yoga Festival is an annual event in Lamu, that emphasises yoga, well-being, peace, and harmony. The cost covers the ticket, lodging, half-board meals, a sailing and cultural outing, and round-trip transportation from Nairobi in a private vehicle.
25th - 29th October ‘24
Tassia Lodge, Lekkurruki
During the Jumhuri holiday, we will revisit Tassia Lodge in Laikipia County. This stunning property, set on expansive open plains, offers panoramic views of the vast plateau. From both the infinity pool and the rooms, you can catch sight of elephants roaming freely.
9th -12th December ‘24
South Africa
Standing distinctively apart from many of its African counterparts, South Africa shines as a truly LGBTQ+ friendly destination. Indeed, it's a place where individuals from the LGBTQ+ community enjoy the same rights as their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts.
South Africa was the trailblazer in becoming the first nation worldwide to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation in its constitution back in 1996. A decade later, in November 2006, it emerged as the fifth country in the world, and uniquely in Africa, to legalise same-sex marriage.
Further progressive strides include the legalisation of the age of consent in 2007, the right for same-sex couples to legally adopt, and the option to change one's legal gender since 2003. LGBTQ+ individuals are also openly accepted in military service. Collectively, these legal protections and rights are demonstrative of the country's favorable stance towards the LGBTQ+ community.
South Africa's larger cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg boast a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, complete with their own annual Pride events. But the inclusivity extends beyond these cosmopolitan hubs. Smaller cities and towns like Port Elizabeth and Stellenbosch in the Western Cape have started to put themselves on the map with bars gaining reputation as local LGBTQ+ hotspots.
ILGA Accredited Lodges
Founded in 1983, IGLTA is the premier global network of tourism enterprises that warmly welcome the LGBTQ+ community. They offer a wealth of complimentary travel resources and knowledge, whilst tirelessly advocating for equality and safety within the realm of LGBTQ+ tourism across the globe. Their member base is diverse and expansive, encompassing LGBTQ+ amicable lodging, transportation services, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media, all scattered across more than 80 countries.
Soroi Collection
The Soroi Collection has breathed new life into Kenyas tourism industry as it becomes the first Kenyan member of ILGTA reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and belief that travel should be universally welcoming and enjoyable experience
Jamala Madikwe Royal
Jamala Madikwe, a gay-owned and operated establishment, provides a uniquely personal and non-discriminatory Big 5 Safari experience in the Malaria-Free Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa, with exceptional service and attention to detail.