LGBTQ+ Insider's Guide

The Magic of Africa

A trip to Africa is a profound sensory experience that stays with you forever. From the moment you land, you are met with vibrant energy, deep history, and spectacular environments. Born Free is just that - you are "born free." You will be welcomed and guided to make this journey come true, if it is your dream. We will help you make it happen.

Many of Africa's top travel destinations enthusiastically welcome LGBTQ+ visitors. However, our cultures are very different. In almost all Africa countries for heterosexual or same-sex relationships it is to avoid open displays of affection.

• Accommodations: Premium safari camps and boutique lodges operate as private sanctuaries. Their highly trained staff focus entirely on delivering exceptional hospitality and ensuring your complete comfort. Do not be concerned about sharing beds or sitting together. However, it is important to be discreet.

• Private Guides: Born Free will make sure that you have our guides who will make you advise you about local customs but also make you feel safe and comfortable.

Planning your trip to Africa

• Savvy Safari Consultants: Work with a safari planner who has experience in LGBTQ+ trips. And who can hand-select lodges and guides that are known for their welcoming, open-minded hospitality.

• Custom Itineraries: Tailoring your trip to your specific requirements will ensure a safe and deeply immersive journey.

Some Concerns – Uganda and most countries in West Africa have very strict policies about any open affection. These countries would not be our first recommendation. Always check with your safari planner on updated information. Gratefully, the world has become more and more open and welcoming but there are those countries where more caution needs to be taken over others such as in Uganda and most countries in West Africa.

Policy by Country

• Botswana: Homosexuality has been decriminalized, but gay marriage has not been recognized by the government. Safari lodges have always welcomed all individuals no matter their choices. You can feel safe in the camps and ultimate privacy is almost guaranteed.

• Egypt: Laws are more strictly adhered to, and open affection is prohibited for both same-sex and heterosexual couples.

• Kenya & Tanzania: It is still illegal to be gay in both countries, and marriages are not recognized. However, the LGBTQ community is welcomed in tourist areas with discretion as any couple should be.

• Morocco: Technically, it is illegal but is not enforced against those keeping a low profile. The country is a bit more conservative in regard to open affection for all travelers. Special guides are always assigned.

• Namibia: Homosexuality is not legal, but it has been a gay-friendly destination for years. You can feel safe but always respect local laws, and, again, public displays of affection are not advised.

• Rwanda: Homosexuality is legal, but the general public still is not comfortable with the new openness. Be discreet in the cities but no issue with showing modest affection in the tourist area lodges.

• The Seychelles & Mozambique: Both have recently decriminalized homosexuality.

• South Africa: Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is most inclusive and open to LGBTQ+ travelers and residents. It was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage and upholds progressive values. For many years, Cape Town has been considered worldwide as a “gay mecca.” 

• Zimbabwe & Zambia: Both are safe to travel but is illegal, according to the government. In the game parks, though, is negligible risk.