Cape Town shines as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the world
PRIDE MONTH
South Africa's LGBTQIA+ community parading during Cape Town Pride. The Mother City is known as a gay-friendly destination.
Image: Theolin Tembo/Independent Newspapers
As Pride Month unfolds globally, Cape Town has proudly secured a spot on the 2025 list of the Most LGBTQ+ Friendly Cities in the World, as released by Big 7 Travel.
This annual ranking celebrates cities that not only provide safety for LGBTQ+ travellers and residents but also foster an environment of genuine welcome and acceptance.
The list, which highlights the top 30 LGBTQI+ friendly cities, evaluates destinations based on various criteria, including legal protections, equality ratings, Pride celebrations and the vibrancy of local LGBTQ+ communities.
Cape Town, affectionately known as the Mother City, has impressively ranked 16th, surpassing renowned cities such as Melbourne, Glasgow, Barcelona and Oslo.
Notably, Cape Town stands as the only African city to feature on this prestigious list.
South Africa has long been a pioneer for LGBTQ+ rights on the continent, having legalised same-sex marriage in 2006, making it the first country in Africa to do so.
Cape Town embodies this progressive legacy, offering a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for both queer locals and visitors alike.
The city is also renowned for its dynamic LGBTQ+ events throughout the year, with the Pride celebrations in February and March being a highlight.
The Mother City Queer Project and the Out in Africa Film Festival are among the many vibrant celebrations that showcase the city’s rich LGBTQ+ culture.
The De Waterkant neighbourhood serves as the heart of Cape Town's LGBTQ+ scene, featuring an array of gay-owned bars, gyms, shops and cafes.
The iconic rainbow crossing in this area stands as a powerful symbol of South Africa’s commitment to anti-discrimination laws.
The top 10 Most LGBTQ+ Friendly Cities in the World include:
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Dublin, Ireland
- Porto, Portugal
- London, UK
- Madrid, Spain
- Berlin, Germany
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- San Francisco, USA
- Toronto, Canada
- Sydney, Australia
Cape Town's inclusion in this esteemed list not only highlights its commitment to inclusivity but also positions it as a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ travellers seeking a welcoming and vibrant environment.
As the city continues to celebrate its rich culture and progressive values, it remains a beacon of hope and acceptance in Africa and beyond.