Issue #2: How to Plan an LGBTQ+ Friendly Safari (Without the Awkwardness)

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS ISSUE:

• Which safari countries are safe, welcoming, and worth it

• What to ask before booking (and why it matters)

• The magic of traveling with people who truly get it

• Two handpicked LGBTQ+ inclusive safari lodges

• A one-click poll to tell me if you liked it

Where You Go Really Matters

There are a handful of standout destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers — each offering a different kind of safari experience. Here's how they compare:

South Africa

If you’re new to safaris, this is where to start. South Africa has some of the most progressive LGBTQ+ protections on the continent, and Cape Town is a thriving, openly queer city.

Most travelers head to Kruger National Park, a huge reserve with a mix of self-drive and guided options. The public areas are accessible and affordable, but for a more elevated experience, head to a private reserve within Kruger’s boundaries. Here, you get smaller camps, fewer people, and guides who know the terrain inside out.

Best for: First-timers, small groups wanting flexibility, those who want to combine safari with coastal or wine-country travel.
When to go: May–October (dry season, better wildlife viewing)
Where to stay: Klaserie Drift — an upscale, inclusive lodge in a private Kruger reserve.

Namibia

Namibia is vast. Think red deserts, ghost towns, dune fields, and animals wandering past your tent at dusk. It’s incredibly safe, politically stable, and has very low tourist density — you often feel like you have the country to yourself.

While it doesn’t have a visible LGBTQ+ scene, it also rarely feels hostile. Most travelers are self-drivers, but guided safaris through places like Etosha National Park or Damaraland give you the drama without the crowds.

Best for: Road trip lovers, photographers, travelers seeking peace and solitude
When to go: June–October (dry season, best game viewing)
Where to stay: Okonjima Lodge — combines luxury with leopard tracking and conservation.

Botswana

Botswana is known for doing safaris differently. Its “low-impact, high-value” model means fewer visitors, more exclusivity, and a stronger focus on conservation. The result? Some of the most luxurious safari lodges in the world — and price tags to match.

The Okavango Delta is the star here: lush, seasonal wetlands where you’ll glide through papyrus in a mokoro (dugout canoe) and wake up to hippos outside your tent.

LGBTQ+ rights were only decriminalized in 2019, and while public affection isn’t common, most operators are respectful and experienced in hosting international guests of all kinds.

Best for: Luxury safaris, private group trips, bucket list travelers
When to go: July–October (prime Delta season)
Pro tip: Use a specialist operator to ensure your lodge is both safe and worth the cost

Kenya

Kenya offers dramatic landscapes, great migrations, and the chance to combine safari with beach or city culture. But there’s a catch: same-sex relations are still illegal, and public displays of affection are discouraged.

That said, many safari companies now quietly but confidently welcome LGBTQ+ travelers, especially in private conservancies. If you go with a reputable operator who understands the cultural context, you’ll be fine.

Best for: Adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, those with a strong operator
When to go: July–October (Great Migration), or Jan–Feb for dry-season game viewing
Good to know: Focus on private guides and lodges for maximum comfort and minimal friction.

Safari Logistics for Small Groups

Safari travel often works better for small groups. Why?

• You can share the cost of a private vehicle or guide

• You control the pace of your days — no waiting for strangers to get ready

• You can choose stays that offer exclusive-use villas or tents

• Shared stories = better memories

Many lodges offer special group rates or can arrange private dinners, guided walks, or cultural visits tailored just for your crew.

Don’t be afraid to ask for these — they’re often available, but not always advertised.

What You Should Always Ask Before You Book

No matter where you go, don’t leave inclusivity to chance. Ask:

• “Have you hosted LGBTQ+ travelers before?”

• “Are your guides trained in inclusive hospitality?”

• “Do you offer private or semi-private experiences?”

• “What’s the general dynamic at the camp — family-style meals or individual tables?”

You deserve answers — and the best companies will respect you more for asking.