Africa Travel WeekAfrica is constantly evolving and growing as a destination, and it’s encouraging to see that several African destinations are now proudly promoting to LGBTQ+ travellers whether they are seasoned or first-time visitors.
Although South Africa and particularly Cape Town have been at the forefront for LGBTQ+ travel on the continent, more destinations including Botswana and Namibia are currently entering the conversation.
In the spirit of Pride Month this June, here are three annual parades in Africa where travellers can celebrate, and connect with other LGBTQ+ members across the continent:
Cape Town Pride
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Africa Travel Week’s host city of Cape Town never fails to impress, especially regarding LGBTQ-friendly events and initiatives. South Africa’s Mother City boasts one of the most tolerant and open gay scenes in all of Africa, and travellers will find no shortage of safe venues in which to mingle with their peers. Held annually in February, the much-anticipated Cape Town Pride parade promises a colourful experience filled with plenty of pink parties, live music and colourful entertainment.
For more info, visit: www.capetownpride.org
Pride of Africa
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Many don’t know that South Africa’s first Pride march was held in Johannesburg on 13 October 1990 by the Gay and Lesbian Organisation of the Witwatersrand (GLOW), making it the very first on the African continent. Today Joburg (or Jozi), hosts a range of LGBTQ-friendly events, including their annual Pride of Africa event, where members of the community can ‘stride with pride’, enjoy live music, DJs, drag acts, a fashion show, and a local market.
For more info, visit: prideofafrica.org
Pride of Africa Gaborone
Location: Gabarone, Botswana
No, it’s not just South Africa hosting events supporting and advocating for LGBTQ rights. Since Botswana’s high court decriminalised homosexuality in 2019, the first-ever Gaborone Pride event took place in that same year. Despite being disrupted during Covid-19, the event is back this year and is set to garner more support under the Pride of Africa banner.
For more info, visit: prideofafrica.co.bw
If you have ever wanted to tap into the LGBTQ+ market or connect with members of this dynamic community, the best place to do so is EQUAL Africa. Held annually at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, this one-day show is dedicated to better understanding the LGBTQ+ traveller.
