5 unique destinations for black travelers in 2024
Before you start planning that European summer in Italy or France or take a trip to Bali or Thailand, it might be time to consider trying some new places.
After all, traveling should be about discovery, and while there are popular travel spots that consistently make it to everyone's list, there's a world of lesser-known gems that are just waiting to be explored and friendly towards black travelers.
So, I’m asking you to step out of your comfort zone and check out these 5 destinations to get a more unique experience!
1) Guatemala
Best months to go to Guatemala: November to April
Ideal trip length: 1-2 weeks
Guatemala is an enchanting destination that promises a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural history. Renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes, Guatemala offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural history. One of the most popular sites to visit is Lake Atitlan, which is framed by three volcanoes and can be hiked with guidance from a local tour company. For travelers seeking a cultural experience, the ancient Mayan city of Tikal is a must-visit, showcasing impressive ruins and a glimpse into the country's historic past.
Guatemala's vibrant markets, like the famous Chichicastenango, brim with colorful textiles and handicrafts, providing an authentic taste of local life. And if you’re an adventure seeker, you can hike Pacaya Volcano or explore the natural limestone pools at Semuc Champey.
One black traveler also highlighted how affordable Guatemala was which allowed her to eat out every day. Combining that with loads of activities and how friendly the locals were, she had an amazing experience.
2) Zanzibar, Tanzania
Best months to go to Zanzibar: July to September
Ideal trip length: 7-10 days
Zanzibar is an African tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania, famous for its exotic beaches and rich history. The island's Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating maze of narrow alleys and historic buildings, reflecting a blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Wandering through Stone Town's labyrinth of narrow alleys, you’ll be greeted with a fascinating array of historical landmarks, like the old Sultan's Palace and the ancient House of Wonders.
The vibrant Forodhani Gardens also come alive in the evenings with street food markets, so you can get a taste of local Zanzibari cuisine. Speaking of food, it’s a must to pay a visit to The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar, a seafood restaurant that literally sits on a rock in the ocean. Because of the restaurant’s popularity and small space, you should make reservations at least two weeks in advance.
Zanzibar's beaches, like Nungwi and Kendwa, are known for their powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and diving to explore vibrant coral reefs.
For a deeper dive into the Zanzibar travel experience, I highly recommend watching this video by Tayo Aina so you can see even more of what this beautiful archipelago has to offer.
3) Qatar
Best months to go to Qatar: November to April
Ideal trip length: 3-5 days
Black people love a good trip to Dubai in the UAE—but you might want to consider one of its neighboring countries for your next vacation.
Qatar is rapidly emerging as a luxury travel hotspot in the Middle East, known for its opulent lifestyle and modern architecture. The capital, Doha, features iconic buildings like the Museum of Islamic Art, showcasing a vast collection of artworks, and the futuristic skyline of the West Bay area.
Qatar offers a unique blend of traditional and modern shopping experiences, from the historic Souq Waqif to the high-end stores in The Pearl. The country also offers desert safaris in its vast dunes and a chance to explore the traditional Bedouin culture.
For my girlies who love a nice beach club, check out MonkeyTale and B12 Beach Club for stunning views and some tasty food.
4) Albania
Best months to go to Albania: June to August
Ideal trip length: 1-2 weeks
Forget Greece and Croatia—Albania is Europe's hidden vacation gem, offering a blend of beautiful landscapes, beaches, and historical sites, typically at very affordable prices.
The Albanian Riviera is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a journey through various historical periods with its well-preserved ruins. Albania's capital, Tirana, is a vibrant city with a lively café culture and colorful buildings. The country's diverse geography includes the stunning Albanian Alps in the north, perfect for hiking and exploring the traditional mountain villages. The cuisine, influenced by Greek, Italian, and Ottoman flavors, is yet another reason to visit Albania.
Zimeee, a black traveler on TikTok, spoke about how kind the locals were to her, including the hotel staff. Her concierge even personally took her to one of the best night food markets in Tirana. One of my favorite travelers to follow, Tonia Hope, also said the locals were very friendly which made walks around the city enjoyable. She also highlighted her visit to the Bunk Art Museum which gave her a nice overview of Albanian history.
5) Japan
Best months to go to Japan: March to May, September to November
Ideal trip length: 2 weeks
Japan is by far the most popular destination on this list, but it’s still somewhat overlooked by black travelers. As a black person visiting a very homogenous Asian country, you might expect tons of stares, people asking to take pictures with you, or even rude treatment. But many black tourists have spoken about having a very pleasant experience.
For example, one traveler on TikTok spoke about how, even though she definitely stood out and only saw about 20 other black people on her trip to Japan, she had a great time. Another young man enjoyed his trip so much he didn’t want to leave, mostly because of the culture, nightlife, and the food.
Japan comes with a fascinating mix of ancient traditions, cutting-edge technology, delicious food, and pop culture that make for an interesting memorable trip. The country’s also famous for its cherry blossoms in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo, where historical sites blend seamlessly with modern architecture.
Japan is also known for its traditional onsens (hot springs), particularly in towns like Hakone and Beppu. For those interested in technology and pop culture, Akihabara in Tokyo provides an immersive experience with its electronics stores and anime shops. Japan's efficient bullet trains make traveling across the country both convenient and an experience in itself.