LGBT+ tourism is more popular than ever

The LGBT+ community is well-accustomed to banding together for protection, acceptance and fighting for its rights. Increasingly, however, its members are uniting for a more exciting purpose: group travel adventures.

Whether it’s party-centric travel to global Pride events or exclusive, culturally rich tours to more unusual destinations, the LGBT+ tourism market is set to grow at a predicted 7.8 per cent year-on-year from 2025 to 2032, according to Coherent Market Insights. This surge is expected to elevate the market to US$604.34 billion.

Recent statistics reveal that about 10 per cent of travellers identify as members of the queer community, highlighting a demographic that’s not only substantial but also has significant spending power. LGBT+ travellers spend on average 30 per cent more than their heterosexual counterparts, driven by a thirst for unique experiences and a strong sense of community.

In response to this growing demand, the travel industry is crafting tailored opportunities to welcome and celebrate these dynamic travellers.

The more, the merrier

What makes group travel appealing to the LGBT+ community in particular is the opportunity for camaraderie and shared experiences. Gay group travel companies including Out Adventures and Out of Office have become increasingly popular, offering curated, inclusive experiences.

“At a time when our rights are being challenged around the world, our community finds solace in spending money with tour operators who take the time to vet local suppliers, hotels and guides, ensuring an environment in which travellers can be themselves,” says Robert Sharp, the owner of Out Adventures.

“Our guests choose companies like us because they know we put an emphasis on bringing our groups together like a family, and it’s almost guaranteed that they’ll fly home with a few more friends than they had prior to the trip.”

A tour operator’s expertise also makes a world of difference, according to Jaike Rowe, sales and product manager at Out of Office. “Certain itineraries, such as extensive island-hopping in Greece, can be complicated to book on your own,” he says. “You have to really know a destination to make sense of all the options and logistics. Group tours can take you to places you wouldn’t normally visit.”

Jonathan Lechtman, owner of Travel Republic Africa , which specialises in corporate group tours, often chooses to spend his own vacations exploring the world with gay group trips. “I know first-hand how much effort goes into planning these excursions, so it’s great to sit back, enjoy the ride and meet new people along the way,” he says.

“When I first came out, I didn’t have many gay friends, so group tours were a fabulous way to make quality connections and lifelong friendships around the world.”

Gay Asia is slaying

Traditionally, popular destinations have been longstanding queer capitals such as Barcelona, Mykonos and San Francisco. However, destinations throughout Asia are becoming equally attractive hubs for the LGBT+ community.

Of course, progressive, gay-friendly cities such as Bangkok and Taipei have long lured LGBT+ visitors. Renowned for their dynamic nightlife, spirited Pride celebrations and vibrant events, such as Songkran and circuit parties, these colourful capitals continue to be sought-after for lively LGBT+ group trips.

“Asia has always been one of our top-selling regions, with our first-ever tour taking place in Thailand back in 2009,” says Sharp.

However, not all queer tourists want the non-stop party experience and, instead, increasingly seek immersive cultural experiences, opting for tours to Cambodia and Laos’ stunning Buddhist sites, cruises along the serene Mekong River and visits to admireJapan’s breathtaking cherry blossoms.

“We’re also seeing a huge demand for small-ship cruises in Asia,” says Sharp. “We have some annual cruise staples, such as Croatia, Egypt and the Galapagos Islands but, this year, we’ve also added exciting cruises to Cambodia and Vietnam.”

Hey, big spender

For those who desire exclusivity and a touch of the extraordinary, a wealth of luxury queer group holidays awaits.

“Our trips range from four-star, adventure-based itineraries that are very focused on the social side of things to ultra-luxury, five-star itineraries designed for the most discerning travellers,” says Out of Office’s Rowe.

The operator’s bespoke tours include a Big Five adventure in South Africa, a charming river cruise from Amsterdam to Brussels, and Enchanting India , an immersive tour that begins in the heart of Delhi and takes in the Taj Mahal, a tiger sanctuary and the appropriately pink-hued city of Jaipur.

However, for Out Adventures’ Sharp, the gay group travel experience goes deeper than just a pink holiday.

“When we visit destinations that aren’t always seen as LGBT+-friendly but are safe to travel to, we’re not just sightseeing; we’re showing up, supporting local allies and connecting with grassroots communities,” he says. “These experiences are often the most enriching, both for our guests and for the people we meet along the way. It’s a powerful reminder that representation and empathy go a long way, even across cultures and borders.”

Most popular LGBT+ group destinations

Out of Office’s Jaike Rowe reveals the top three global gay go-tos:

Greece

“With stunning beaches and lively resorts, Greek islands, such as Mykonos, remain a perennial favourite, and their popularity is increasing every year.”

Thailand

“For decades, Thailand has been the unofficial gay capital of Asia. After the nation’s landmark legalisation of same-sex marriage earlier this year, gay travellers are keener than ever to go.”

South Africa

“It’s famously a gay-friendly African nation, plus the chance to see the Big Five on safari is always a major draw.”