There’s a growing movement among Black travelers seeking deeper connections to their ancestral homelands and the rich tapestry of the African diaspora. Driven by a desire for safe, welcoming, and culturally immersive experiences, Black travelers are contributing significantly to the travel industry, injecting over $145 billion according to recent reports. To meet this demand, several Black-owned tour companies are curating exceptional itineraries that celebrate history, culture, and legacy.
1. Black Heritage Tours
Founded in 2013 by cultural historian Jennifer Tosch, Black Heritage Tours focuses on illuminating the often-hidden histories of the African diaspora in the Netherlands and New York. Tosch’s personal journey of connecting with her family’s history inspired her initiatives. The tours aim to inform, inspire, and educate a diverse audience, offering private boat tours that delve into these significant “hidden histories.”
2. Jelani Travel
For over a decade, Jelani Travel has provided extraordinary travel experiences tailored for Black travelers. Founder Ashley N. Company aims to help people of African descent reimagine Africa and the world. Their itineraries blend culture and luxury, focusing on four pillars: self-care, service, culture, and adventure. Jelani Travel also partners with its nonprofit, Jelani Gives, to offer passports and educational experiences to HBCU students, believing global access should be a right, not a privilege.
3. Afro Latino Travels with Kim Haas
Known for her PBS television show ‘Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas,’ Kim Haas celebrates and spotlights the historical and cultural contributions of African descendants in Latin America. Following the success of her series, she launched group trips, starting with Costa Rica in 2024 and Colombia in 2025. Haas, who is tri-lingual, plans to expand her offerings throughout Latin America, focusing on educating and highlighting Black history, culture, and traditions in often overlooked destinations.
4. Maximum Impact Travel
Jay Cameron founded Maximum Impact Travel with the mission to unite individuals eager to explore Africa and deepen their connection to the global African community through immersive, upscale, and transformative travel. Having traveled to 25 African countries, Cameron and his team curate itineraries that showcase Africa’s beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities, offering unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impact.
5. Siviwe Tours
Based in South Africa, Siviwe Tours is a locally owned company specializing in the Langa Township. Founder Siviwe Mbinda established the company to share the authentic culture of Langa, prioritizing employment and opportunities for local residents. Siviwe also founded the Happy Feet Youth Project, which supports local children through education, nutrition, leadership development, and team-building activities, notably Gumboots Dancing.
6. Two Oceans Travel & Tours
Maurice Foley, a seasoned traveler from Bermuda, founded Two Oceans Travel & Tours in 2013 after a life-changing trip to South Africa in 2000 ignited a deep connection. The company shares the wonders of Africa and the African diaspora with curious adventurers, offering experiences that capture the continent’s captivating allure.
7. Up In The Air Life
Claire B. Soares, founder and CEO of the luxury travel company Up in the Air Life, redefines luxury travel for Black adventurers. With extensive travel experience across six continents, Soares curates immersive experiences that highlight Afro-culture and history globally. Her luxurious trips feature Michelin-starred dining, sought-after sommeliers, bucket-list activities, and five-star accommodations, including yacht experiences.
Which of these Black-owned tour companies are you adding to your travel list? Share your dream destinations in the comments below!
