Celebrating Black Excellence in Luxury Travel
Each February, as we honor Black History Month, companies spotlight Black-owned businesses, events, and influential figures. In the travel industry, this means shining a light on the limited representation—less than 3%—of Black-owned hotels and highlighting Black luxury tour operators who are reshaping the narrative in an industry that’s often lacking in diversity.
However, it’s essential to recognize that Black luxury has always existed. What has evolved is the visibility and confidence of hoteliers, designers, and cultural curators, allowing them to rewrite the blueprint for luxury hospitality. Join us in celebrating the individuals and locations that reflect this excellence, deserving recognition well beyond February.
Black-Owned Stays Worth Traveling For
Elephant Plains Lodge in Uganda
Nestled in the Pearl of Africa, Elephant Plains Lodge offers a unique wildlife experience. Situated on the stunning western escarpment of the Albertine Rift, this exclusive lodge is owned by Amos Wekesa. Guests can indulge in Ugandan cuisine, unwind amidst the natural beauty of the property, and gather around a campfire or stargaze when night falls. Experience the wonders of the African plains by checking availability here.
Jnane Tamsna in Marrakesh
Just outside the vibrant city of Marrakesh lies Jnane Tamsna, a stunning boutique hotel crafted from five houses. Owner Meryanne Loum-Martin debuted the hotel in 2001 and holds the distinction of being Morocco’s only Black hotelier. With its authentic Moroccan design, lush gardens, and five swimming pools, Jnane Tamsna offers a tranquil oasis perfect for relaxation. Secure your stay here.
The Ode Hotel in Toronto
The Ode Hotel stands as Toronto’s first and only Black-owned, family-operated hotel, located in the city’s Little Portugal neighborhood. Owned by Erica Herbert and her four children, every guest is treated like family. The family aims to attract events, art residencies, and curated dinners, creating spaces that celebrate their culture and experiences. You can book your room on their website.
Food Tours & Experiences
AfroFlavors in Lisbon
Launched by Kamra Clemons in 2024, AfroFlavors invites participants to explore the culinary richness of the African Diaspora in Lisbon. Discover African history and culture through food as you savor flavors from local Black businesses in this vibrant city. From Angola to Brazil, you can book your culinary experience here.
Black Foodies Travel
Founder Edna Richardson curates unforgettable culinary adventures for Black travelers. Each year, she transforms meals into exciting excursions, showcasing diverse culinary experiences around the globe. From Greece to Jamaica, you can find and book your next delicious journey here.
Black Food Truck Festival
Celebrated creator Marcus Hammond founded the Black Food Truck Festival in Charleston, South Carolina, to honor Black culinary artists. This family-oriented event includes delicious food, live music, and a local business vendor marketplace, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to celebrate community and culture. Secure your tickets here.
Bookable Travel Companies & Experiences
AfroFuture Festival
Abdul Karim Abdullah introduced the AfroFuture Festival to celebrate African music, art, and culture in Ghana. This global cultural platform also hosts unique travel experiences, enabling participants to connect with the vast cultures of the African diaspora. Find out more and book your experience here.
AfroIberica Tours
Kwame Ondo launched AfroIberica Tours in Spain, offering immersive experiences into lesser-known Black histories in Madrid. Patrons can delve into the rich contributions of Black culture through curated tours. Explore the various available options here.
BUTTER Fine Art Fair
Founded by Mali and Alan Bacon, GANGGANG brings the BUTTER Fine Art Fair to life, showcasing the creativity of Black artists in Indianapolis and Los Angeles. This curated fair prioritizes emerging artists and offers a no-commission model to maximize their earnings. Discover upcoming events and ticket options here.
Jelani Travel
For tailored travel experiences designed specifically for Black travelers, Jelani Travel offers vacations with purpose that combine luxury with cultural immersion. Founder Ashley N. Company seamlessly connects travel with the rich heritage of the African diaspora, inviting travelers to explore through self-care, service, culture, and adventure. Begin your journey here.
Through these vibrant experiences, we can celebrate and uplift Black excellence in luxury travel—making a concerted effort to support these businesses and initiatives year-round.
