Travel safely being LGTBIQ+: safe and dangerous destinations in 2025

Why is it important to talk about safe travel?

Summer is here and with it comes the desire to pack your suitcase and discover the world. But is it equally easy for everyone? The reality is that, as LGTBIQ+ people, we cannot always travel with the same peace of mind as the rest.

Although it sounds harsh, even today there are countries where loving who you love or being who you are can cost you your freedom… or even your life. Therefore, before choosing a destination, we want to give you an updated map to travel safely and proudly in 2025.

Ranking of safe destinations for LGTBIQ+ people in 2025

Here we leave you a list of countries and cities that stand out this year for their LGBT-friendly environment, legal protection and inclusive culture.

🌈 1. Spain

Yes, it’s not about sweeping home, but Spain continues to be one of the safest and most open destinations. Madrid and Barcelona top the ranking with their massive Pride, but also stand out:

• Sitges: beach, gay scene and parties all year round.
• Torremolinos: LGTBIQ+ paradise on the Costa del Sol.
• Maspalomas (Gran Canaria): international destination with gay entertainment and events such as Winter Pride.

🌈 2. Portugal

Lisbon and Porto are vibrant cities, with a growing queer scene and more affordable prices than other European destinations. In addition, Portugal has egalitarian laws and is safe for LGTBIQ+ tourists.

🌈 3. Germany

Berlin remains the European queer mecca. From its activist history to its label-free clubs, you’ll find an atmosphere of freedom and respect. Furthermore, in 2025 the city will host new queer festivals and international LGTBIQ+ conferences.

🌈 4. Canada

If you want to leave Europe, Canada is one of the safest and most progressive countries. Toronto and Vancouver stand out for their LGTBIQ+ life, but even in smaller cities you will find legal protection and a welcoming atmosphere.

🌈 5. Argentina

Within Latin America, Argentina leads the list for its advanced legislation on trans rights and equal marriage. Buenos Aires is cosmopolitan, diverse and has a great queer cultural offer.

Dangerous destinations for LGTBIQ+ people in 2025

It’s sad to have to make this list, but reality demands it. These are some countries where being LGTBIQ+ is still illegal or highly dangerous:

🚫 Uganda, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Afghanistan: prison sentences or even death.

🚫 Russia and Chechnya: anti-LGTBIQ+ laws and active persecution.

🚫 Egypt and Morocco: illegality and frequent police repression.

Before traveling, always check the updated legislation and the political situation in the country.

Practical recommendations for safe travel

✔️ Do your research before buying the ticket. Consult websites such as Equaldex or the International LGTBIQ+ Association for updated information.

✔️ Take contact from your embassy at the destination in case any problem arises.

✔️ Avoid public displays of affection in countries where being LGTBIQ+ is illegal, for your safety.

✔️ Connect with the local community through apps or social networks. This way you will have real information about safe spaces and places to avoid.

✔️ Take out travel insurance that cover any type of emergency, including repatriation if necessary.

Critical perspective: is travel a queer privilege?

Although we talk about trips with enthusiasm, it is also fair to reflect: Who can afford to travel safely? Within the LGTBIQ+ group, racialized, trans or disabled people face extra barriers. Furthermore, many times “security” in a country is only for tourists and not for the local community. Are we traveling respectfully or using these places as queer theme parks without engaging with their reality?

Traveling is freedom, discovery and pleasure. But for the LGTBIQ+ community it is also strategy, caution and a lot of prior information. I hope that a day will come when these types of items are not necessary and we can move around the world without fear, with the same naturalness with which we prepare our passport or look for accommodation.

Until then, let’s take care of ourselves, inform ourselves and make each trip an act of pride and life.