Best LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in South America
Best LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in South America
Progressive capital districts and welcoming neighborhood zones in South America
South America has become one of the more progressive regions in the world for LGBTQ+ rights, with marriage equality now common across much of the continent.
Argentina was the first country in Latin America to legalize same sex marriage back in 2010, and Buenos Aires has built a strong, visible scene ever since, often described as one of the region's most welcoming cities. Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador and Uruguay have all followed with marriage equality of their own, alongside major Pride events, including Rio de Janeiro's parade, one of the largest in the world. Conditions still vary by country and by city within them, so a bit of research helps when planning where to go. Major cities generally offer the most established, visible communities across the continent.
The destinations on our list for South America reflect that same strength found across much of the continent.
Lists by region
City in Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
The heartbeat of Brazil's coast
Street parties called blocos are a Rio custom at Carnival. Banda de Ipanema is known as a symbol of diversity. Farme de Amoedo Street in Ipanema has long been the heart of gay culture. LGBTQ+ performers have shaped Carnival since the 1970s. Pride draws huge crowds to Copacabana Beach.
City in Colombia
Bogotá
Vibrant Culture in the Andean Highlands
Chapinero is Bogotá's most LGBT friendly neighbourhood. Theatron there is described as the largest LGBT club in Latin America. The Pride march falls at the end of June or the start of July. It follows Seventh Avenue from Parque Nacional to Plaza de Bolívar. Salsa classes for same-gender couples are also on offer.
City in Brazil
São Paulo
A vibrant mix of culture and cuisine
Avenida Paulista hosts the São Paulo Pride Parade on the Sunday after Corpus Christi, usually in June. It began in 1997. Guinness lists it as the world's largest Pride parade, with about 2.5 million people in 2006. Attendance figures are disputed. The city is Brazil's biggest.
City in Argentina
Buenos Aires
Where Tango and Culture Thrive
The first Pride march in 1992 drew about 250 people. By 2010, when Argentina legalised same-sex marriage, about 100,000 joined. The march is now usually held on the first Saturday of November. By 2011 it had grown to about 250,000. The city is a lively place to celebrate.
City in Chile
Santiago
A vibrant city between mountains
Later than Argentina and Uruguay, Chile approved same-sex marriage in December 2021. Santiago's main gay district is Bellavista, with bars and clubs around Bombero Núñez Street. Barrio Italia and Lastarria are also welcoming. Movilh, a rights group, was founded in 1991. Bellavista is also home to Pablo Neruda's house museum, La Chascona.
City in Colombia
Medellín
The City of Eternal Spring
Bright street art in Laureles, El Poblado and Comuna 13 promotes inclusion. Pride is celebrated each June. About 50,000 people joined the latest march. Bar Chiquita was nominated as one of the world's 100 best bars. The Ball de las Flores is part of the Feria de las Flores.
City in Ecuador
Quito
Andean Charm Meets Colonial Splendor
Each June Quito Pride marks International LGBT Pride Day. The first march in 1998 came a year after Ecuador decriminalized homosexuality. It drew about 20 people. About 25,000 joined in 2022. Same-sex marriage became legal on 12 June 2019 after a Constitutional Court ruling. Recent marches have centred on La Carolina Park.
City in Uruguay
Montevideo
Chill vibes on the Río de la Plata
On the Río de la Plata coast, Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay. Americas Quarterly named the country the most LGBT friendly in Latin America in 2016. Same-sex marriage took effect in 2013. Joint adoption has been allowed since 2009. Pride is held on the last Friday of September.
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