4 Black travel influencers to follow in 2024
If you’re looking for some new travel inspiration, journey through the eyes of four incredible black travel influencers who are redefining the art of exploration and storytelling. Each brings their unique perspectives and experiences to the forefront–from captivating stories across the diverse landscapes of Africa to honest and budget-friendly adventures and spontaneous, life-embracing escapades.
These black travel influencers are not just traversing the globe; they are reshaping narratives and inspiring a new generation of travelers. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just beginning to explore the world of travel, their stories will ignite your wanderlust and broaden your understanding of what it means to travel while embracing one’s identity.
For those who want to see more of Africa
Tayo Aina - YouTube: @tayoaina
For me, Tayo Aina stands out as an exceptional travel influencer. His journeys across Africa, particularly from his home country of Nigeria to places like Zimbabwe and South Africa, have been nothing short of inspiring.
Watching his YouTube channel, I'm always impressed by the production quality of his videos. The drone shots are stunning, but it's his storytelling that truly captivates me. He's not just showing us places; he's sharing stories, intertwining local lives, his experiences, and the deeper meanings he discovers along the way.
Recently, he's been exploring Europe, and I've been eagerly following these new adventures, excited to see Europe through his unique lens.
For those who want to travel fearlessly
Tonia Hope - TikTok: @toniahope
Tonia Hope has been a huge source of inspiration for me. As a dark-skinned, plus-size British woman, her presence as a travel influencer on TikTok is a powerful statement as she makes her way through Europe and North America.
Her fearless approach to travel, whether it's solo road trips in Scotland or hiking in the rain in Puerto Rico, really resonates with me. She embodies the message that you shouldn't limit yourself based on societal expectations. Her adventures constantly remind me to live life to the fullest, without fear.
For budget solo travelers
Lena - TikTok: @sowonthego
Lena has a special place in my heart, particularly as a young black woman who's passionate about budget travel. Her TikTok videos, which chronicle her travels in Latin America and Europe, are not only informative but incredibly honest. I admire how she openly discusses both the good and the challenging aspects of her travels, including experiences of racism.
Her candidness is refreshing and relatable—even with challenging experiences, she’s always enthusiastic about her experiences and shows a strong desire to connect with each place she goes to.
Seeing a young, confident black woman exploring the world and encouraging others to do the same is empowering. She’s a role model for young black women like myself, showing that the world is ours to explore.
For those who want true adventure
Kaylen - TikTok: @kaylendoesstuff
While I might not categorize her strictly as a travel influencer, Kaylen embodies the spirit of adventurous living. Her videos are a testament to living in the moment—whether she's making spontaneous decisions to live in a new country, befriending strangers, finding the love of her life in Colombia, or even engaging in ayahuasca ceremonies in Costa Rica. I find her life exhilarating, albeit a bit intimidating.
I might not have the courage to replicate her adventures, but I absolutely love living vicariously through her experiences. They remind me that life can be an incredible journey of spontaneity and self-discovery. Plus, her travel group trips, like the ones to Mexico and Costa Rica, show her desire to share these extraordinary experiences with others.
