When news broke that African Americans contributed more than $63 billion to the travel and tourism economy in 2018, it proved to be an opportunity for many travel agencies missing out on black travel dollars.
But there are groups who have recognized not only the importance of black travel dollars but also the importance of authentic experiences.
From customized itineraries to travel resources, here are six black-owned travel groups you should consider when planning your next trip.
Yacht Week East Africa
Yacht Week East Africa is the premier travel and sailing company in East Africa.
The organization’s focus is the beauty and culture of the Eastern coastline of Africa and its neighboring islands.
Tastemakers Africa
Tastemakers Africa offers unique tours created and hosted by artists and creators in Africa. The groups will help you connect with people in an authentic way to create a unique itinerary for your trip.
You can choose from a personalized itinerary or travel with others with their group tours.
Wind Collective
Based in London, the Wind Collective is a global travel community that expresses freedom through adventure and creativity.
The group’s founder, Clé Hunnigan, has a team that hosts monthly group travel experiences for those looking for adventure.
You Me Travel Co
You Me Travel Co is a boutique travel company that works to inspire millennials of color to see the world by sharing stories, producing events and designing custom travel itineraries.
What’s great about You Me Travel Co is the team creates a personalized itinerary to fit your unique travel style and preferences.
Black Adventuristas
Created by Veronica E. Garnett, Black Adventuristas aims to inspire black women to conquer their fears through traveling by offering travel resources, including quitting a “good” job to pursue a non-traditional career, trying a daring new hair or lipstick color, or simply dining alone.
Garnett’s philosophy is that all adventures, no matter how small, are worthwhile.
Urban Events Global
Beginning as a camping trip in 2011, Urban Events Global has grown to become the hub for several events such as Urban Camp Weekend, Urban Excursion Weekend, Urban Cruise Weekend, and the annual UEG Meet Up.
During the many adventures, travelers range from 400 to 2,000 participants, so it’s like traveling with one big family.
NOMADNESS Travel Tribe
With more than 20,000 members, ho have accumulated over 100,000 passport stamps, NOMADNESS Travel Tribe has been coined a “Digital Green Book” as it creates a safe space where black travelers share travel resources and experiences from around the globe. The goal, according to the group’s founder Evita Turquoise Robinson, is to increase diversity in the travel industry.