When it comes to the subject of LGBTQ+ rights, sometimes the world could do with a candid progress report. It really helps to know which countries are excelling, and which countries “could do better if they’d only amply themselves more”.

The SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index is exactly that — a global snapshot of where equality is thriving, where it’s under pressure, and where serious risks remain for queer people in 2026.

SPARTACUS? Who’s That Then?

The annually updated SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index offers one of the clearest overviews of how welcoming — or restrictive — the world is for LGBTIQ+ travelers. Covering 217 countries and regions (plus a dedicated U.S. breakdown), it reflects both legal frameworks and real-world social conditions shaping queer lives today. More than just a ranking, it acts as a bird’s-eye view of global equality, safety, and visibility.

So how is this measured? The Index has evolved far beyond basic legal checklists. It now includes 18 categories, ranging from marriage equality and anti-discrimination laws to the existence of the death penalty for homosexuality. It also considers intersex rights, legal gender recognition, and the growing number of countries banning conversion therapy. Importantly, it doesn’t just look at laws on paper — it also evaluates social acceptance and lived experiences.

The data is drawn from trusted sources such as equaldex.com, ilga.org, and Human Rights Watch, ensuring a nuanced and reliable picture. Published by SPARTACUS — a pioneer in queer travel since 1970 — the Index is supported by Booking.com and its Travel Proud initiative, which provides free training to hospitality providers to better welcome LGBTQ+ guests worldwide.

The results are presented in a simple, visual map: deep green signals the safest and most inclusive destinations, while red marks places where LGBTQ+ people face serious danger.

The Top Ten

Few surprises appear at the very top — but the margins are tightening, and the reasons behind each ranking reveal a lot about where the world is heading.

The Winner — Iceland

Iceland once again claims the top spot, and it’s not hard to see why. The country consistently combines strong legal protections with high levels of social acceptance. Marriage equality, comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, and progressive gender recognition policies are all firmly in place.

But what truly sets Iceland apart is cultural attitude. LGBTQ+ people are not just protected — they are widely accepted and visible in everyday life. Pride celebrations are mainstream (we’ve been and it was epic), political support is consistent, and representation in public life is strong. They even wisely had a lesbian prime minister in Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir—because let’s face it, lesbians tend to get stuff done!

Runner-Ups — Malta and Spain

Close behind are Malta and Spain, both long-standing leaders in LGBTQ+ rights.

Malta has built a reputation as one of the most progressive countries in Europe, particularly in areas like gender identity and intersex rights. Its legislation is often considered among the most forward-thinking globally, with strong protections and recognition frameworks.

Spain, meanwhile, continues to stand out for both its legal progress and vibrant queer culture. From early adoption of marriage equality to recent advances in trans rights, Spain combines legal security with visible, celebrated LGBTQ+ communities — particularly in cities like Barcelona and our home city of Madrid 

Joint Fourth Place — Belgium, Canada, Germany, Portugal

Four countries share fourth place, highlighting just how competitive the top tier has become: Belgium, Canada, Germany, and Portugal. All four offer strong legal protections, recognition of same-sex relationships, and generally inclusive social climates. However, the Index notes an important shift — even these historically progressive countries are experiencing pressure in terms of social acceptance.

Unfortunately, In places like Canada, Australia, and Denmark, rising cultural tensions and polarisation are beginning to impact perceptions of safety and acceptance. While legal frameworks remain strong, public attitudes in some areas are becoming more divided. As a result, rankings are tightening, and no country can afford to be complacent.

Climbers of the Year

While the top rankings remain relatively stable, some of the most interesting movement in 2026 comes from countries making significant progress.

Poland

Poland is the standout climber this year, jumping from rank 118 to 59 — a remarkable leap of nearly 60 places.

This shift follows political changes that have led to measurable improvements in LGBTQ+ rights. Trans rights have advanced, protections against state repression have strengthened, and the overall social environment is showing signs of becoming more open. While challenges remain, the direction of travel is clearly positive — and that makes Poland one to watch.

Nepal

Nepal is another country moving decisively in the right direction, climbing 21 places to rank 32. Key to this progress is the introduction of self-identification procedures for trans people, alongside increasing social tolerance. Nepal has long been seen as relatively progressive within its region, and these developments are reinforcing its reputation as a more inclusive destination for queer travelers.

Latin America on the Rise

Across Latin America, the overall trend is one of cautious progress — though not without contrasts.

Several countries in the region are advancing thanks to progressive legislation, particularly around gender identity and self-determination for trans people. Countries like Argentina and Uruguay continue to lead the way, with strong legal protections and long-standing recognition of gender identity rights. Chile has also made notable strides in recent years, strengthening legal frameworks and improving protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Elsewhere, Colombia and Mexico are showing encouraging progress, particularly through expanding legal recognition and regional reforms that support equality. These developments are helping to make parts of Latin America increasingly attractive for queer travelers.

However, the picture isn’t uniform. In countries such as Brazil, Peru, and El Salvador, worsening social climates and rising violence are offsetting legal gains. While some protections may exist on paper, everyday safety can still be a serious concern, particularly outside major urban areas.

Countries in Decline

Not all movement is positive. Some countries have seen their rankings fall sharply due to increasing repression and violence.

Iraq

Iraq has dropped further in the rankings, reflecting growing concerns about safety. Reports of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, combined with weak legal protections, contribute to a high-risk environment. The lack of accountability and increasing hostility make it one of the more dangerous places for queer people.

South Sudan

South Sudan also sees a decline, with rising instability and reports of violence worsening the situation. Legal protections are virtually non-existent, and social hostility remains high. For LGBTQ+ individuals, both residents and visitors, the risks are significant.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan rounds out the list of notable declines. State repression, strict control over civil liberties, and criminalisation of same-sex relations contribute to its worsening position. Visibility is extremely limited, and the environment remains highly restrictive.

At the very bottom of the SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index 2026 are Afghanistan, Chechnya, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Yemen — countries where LGBTQ+ people face extreme legal penalties and life-threatening conditions.

But What About U.S.?

The United States presents one of the most complex pictures in this year’s Index — a country defined by both progress and backlash.

On one hand, several states continue to expand protections and improve legal equality. Delaware, Rhode Island, and Michigan have all strengthened anti-discrimination laws, with Delaware notably abolishing the so-called “gay/trans panic defense.” These states are moving toward greater inclusivity and safety for LGBTQ+ people.

On the other hand, a number of conservative states are heading in the opposite direction. Idaho, for example, has introduced stricter legislation, including restrictions on healthcare access for trans individuals, censorship measures, and limitations on gender recognition.

The result is a deeply divided landscape. For travelers, crossing a state line can mean moving from a safe, welcoming environment into a far more hostile one. States like New York, California, and Nevada remain among the most LGBTQ+-friendly, while others — including Tennessee — rank at the bottom.

In 2026, the U.S. isn’t one story — it’s fifty different ones.

Moving Queerly Forward

The SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index ultimately reminds us that progress is not linear — and never guaranteed. While some parts of the world are moving forward, others are pushing back. However, when we look back through history, it may take time, but the pendulum inexorably always swings in our favor—especially with the sheer force of tourism adding momentum to the push for greater acceptance and inclusion.

Download the entire SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index. Check out the literal maps of progress here.