LGBT Jacada clients in South Africa

Top Destinations for LGBT Travel

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Written by
Tess Van der Winsor, Emily Opie, Kate Herz, Jane Dumble & Keith Jarman

Published on: September 29th, 2017

Last modified: March 21st, 2024

An important part of travelling, whether solo, as a couple or family is feeling comfortable, relaxed and welcome.

Here's our pick of the top destinations for LGBT travel.

Carnival
Rio de Janeiro
Sea & Sun
The Canary Islands
City Culture
Reykjavik
Opera House and Harbor Bridge at twilight, Sydney, Australia

Australia

Whether you’re all about the nightlife or would prefer to soak up the rays on the beaches at North Bondi and Tamarama, Sydney is the ideal LGBT-friendly destination. Iconic landmarks, a rich history and first-rate restaurants are part of what make the city so popular.

Longitude 131, Uluru and the Outback, Australia

Whether you are after a more secluded intimate getaway, or you are keen to make new friends beneath bright lights, your visit to Australia will be anything but dull.

Hunter valley kangaroos in the vineyard
Recoleta Road

Argentina

From tropical rainforests to waterfalls and vibrant cities, Argentina is the perfect destination for a memorable holiday, and they were the first in the region to legalise gay marriage. Other great LGBT friendly destinations in Latin America include Chile, Colombia and Uruguay.

malbec-vineyard-mendoza-argentina

Buenos Aires itself is full of world-class restaurants, chic bars and luxury hotels, or head into the Mendoza wine region or Patagonia and enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Argentina at a more leisurely pace.

Family Hiking Patagonia
tongariro-crossing-hike-new-zealand

New Zealand

Rugged coastlines, pristine beaches and snow-capped mountains – a visit to New Zealand is something truly special. Add in the dramatic scenery, exquisite cuisine and a welcoming and inclusive attitude towards the LGBT community and it’s the ideal place to escape to.

sea-kayaking-new-zealand

It’s perfect for travellers looking for a rich cultural experience, as well as for adrenaline junkies looking for their next thrill. White water rafting, caving, skydiving and bungee jumping are just a few of the many activities that will help make your stay a wild ride.

sheep-green-meadow-new-zealand
Colorful, juicy and bright big percussions in the street at sunny day at Leme, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil

In energetic Rio, anything goes. Although the famous Carnival lasts just five days, the party atmosphere echoes throughout the Brazilian city all year round.

christ-the-redemeer-rio-de-janeiro

Soak up the rays, catch a wave or play beach volleyball at Ipanema and Leblon, and then when the sun goes down, find your rhythm in the sexy samba hangouts in the city.

rio-carnival
View of the coast from the sea, The Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands

Just off the coast of Morocco, the strikingly beautiful volcanic Canary Islands are a year-round paradise. The Spanish island of Gran Canaria ranks alongside Ibiza, Sitges and Mykonos as one of the most popular LGBT destinations in Europe, with a diverse and energetic scene.

Boats in the port, Gran Canaria, The Canary Islands, Spain

Enjoy dozens of clubs, restaurants, exclusive hotels and a large gay entertainment centre. But it’s not all about the party – rejuvenate as you spend days appreciating the black-and-white sand beaches, lunar landscapes and volcanic peaks.

Desert landscape, Gran Canaria, The Canary Islands, Spain
Hraunfossar waterfall, Iceland

Iceland

With some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe, Iceland’s volcanic rock and lava fields contrast with magnificent icebergs and glacial lakes. It’s an inspiring place for an unforgettable holiday, and it’s also the first country to have had an openly gay Prime Minister. Spend time with the locals in the cafes and bars in Reykjavik, or hit the clubs and dance the night away.

Waterfall tumbling into river above cavern mouth Seljalandsfoss Iceland

Reykjavik Gay Pride attracts huge crowds every year and is only one of the numerous international LGBT festivals that happen there annually. The popular events put as much of a focus on Icelandic culture, art and nature as they do on partying.

Reykjavic waterfront and cityscape, Iceland
Table Mountain at twilight, Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa

Breathe the fresh air at the top of the iconic Table Mountain, and catch a tan on Camps Bay Beach before hitting the popular clubs in Green Point. The city also has a flourishing theatre and visual arts scene, so you won’t be at a loss for ways to make your trip extra special.

Cape Town South Africa Graffiti

With progressive laws and a thriving gay village, Cape Town is the perfect place to enjoy fine wine, great food, breath-taking scenery and a stellar party atmosphere.

Tourist girl looking into the sunset
park-guell-barcelona-spain

Spain

Spain has long been an LGBT favourite, thanks to the vibrant gay villages in most of the major cities. If you love food, music and art – this is the perfect destination for you. If you’d prefer to take a break from cultural exploration, switch the galleries and museums out for the bright lights and thumping beats of MadridBarcelona, Sitges and Ibiza’s lively party scenes.

Cityscape of Malaga, Spain

Tap into the passion of the country with fiery flamenco and soulful music in the sun-soaked south, and breath the fresh air among the rugged hills and vineyards of the Basque Country.

Aerial view of San Sebastian, Spain
Thailand ocean landscape with traditional boat Taxi

Thailand

Thailand has long been known as an accepting, friendly and open country for travellers of all kinds. It’s the perfect destination for lazy beach days along with pulse-racing adventure. Go island hopping in the south, trek across the highlands of Chiang Mai and explore the bustling city of Bangkok.

bangkok-canals-thailand

Make the most of the city’s electric club scene, or head out into the breath-taking countryside to discover temples and palaces – whatever your interests, Thailand is ready to welcome you.

Phi Phi Island Thailand

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