Global LGBTQ+ Travel Landscape Shows Both Progress and Division in 2026 Index
AMSTERDAM – The annual SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index for 2026 has been released, offering a detailed overview of the conditions for LGBTQIA+ individuals in 217 countries and regions. This year, Iceland claims the top spot as the most welcoming destination for queer travelers. It is followed closely by Malta and Spain, which share second place. A group of countries, including the Netherlands' neighbours Germany and Belgium, along with Canada and Portugal, are tied for fourth position.
The index, presented by Booking.com and its Travel Proud initiative, reveals a complex global picture. While many nations are advancing LGBTQ+ rights through progressive legislation, a counter-trend of declining social acceptance is emerging, even in historically liberal countries.
Significant Gains in Poland and Nepal
The most notable improvement in this year's index comes from Poland. Following significant political shifts, the country has jumped an impressive 59 places, moving from rank 118 to 59. The report attributes this rise to tangible improvements in trans rights, reduced state repression, and a more positive social environment for the queer community.
Nepal has also made substantial progress, climbing 21 spots to rank 32. The introduction of self-ID procedures for transgender individuals and growing societal tolerance have made the Himalayan nation a more attractive and safer destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
A Widening Gap Between Law and Public Opinion
While legal frameworks are improving in some regions, the index highlights a concerning trend: the erosion of social acceptance. Countries like Canada, Australia, and Denmark, long considered leaders in LGBTQ+ rights, lost points in the 'Locals Hostile' category due to declining public support for the community in recent surveys. This suggests a growing disconnect between established laws and the day-to-day social climate.
At the other end of the spectrum, conditions have worsened in several countries. Iraq, South Sudan, and Turkmenistan saw their rankings fall due to reports of increased violence and state-sanctioned repression. The most dangerous countries for LGBTQ+ individuals, according to the index, remain Afghanistan, Chechnya, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Yemen.
Spotlight: A Deeply Divided United States
The index places a special focus on the United States, describing it as a nation deeply fractured on LGBTQ+ rights. The situation for travelers can change dramatically simply by crossing a state line.
- Progressive States: States like New York, California, and Nevada lead the US rankings. Others, such as Delaware, Rhode Island, and Michigan, have actively expanded anti-discrimination protections. Delaware, for example, recently abolished the so-called "gay/trans panic defense" in legal cases.
- Regressive States: In contrast, conservative-led states like Idaho, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee have enacted restrictive legislation. These measures include censorship, limitations on medical care for transgender people, and the removal of third-gender options on official documents.
This internal division makes it essential for travelers to research their specific destinations within the US carefully.
About the Index
The SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index is an important resource for the queer community, evaluating countries based on 18 criteria, including anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, trans and intersex rights, and threats from persecution or violence. It aims to provide a reliable basis for travelers to make informed decisions, whether they are seeking the most welcoming holiday spots or wish to engage with and support local queer communities in more challenging environments.
The full SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index 2026 is available for download here.
