Queer Women’s Travel Guide: Exploring the Charm of Peru’s Sacred Valley

Peru’s Sacred Valley is one of the most breathtaking destinations in South America, offering stunning landscapes, rich cultural history, and vibrant local communities. Known for its proximity to Machu Picchu and ancient Incan sites, the Sacred Valley is also an emerging LGBTQ+ friendly destination. For queer women travelers looking for adventure, culture, and a safe, welcoming environment, the Sacred Valley is the perfect place to explore.

Sacred Valley, Peru

Discovering the Sacred Valley’s Cultural Wonders

Nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is home to ancient Incan ruins, traditional Peruvian villages, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. From the well-preserved ruins of Ollantaytambo to the iconic terraces of Moray, the Sacred Valley offers a rich historical experience.

As a queer woman traveler, you’ll feel comfortable exploring these sites, as Peru is becoming more inclusive, especially in tourist-heavy areas like the Sacred Valley. While local customs are conservative, visitors generally report positive experiences in terms of LGBTQ+ safety.

Must-See Incan Sites:

• Ollantaytambo: This well-preserved Incan town is famous for its archaeological ruins and stunning stone terraces. The town itself offers a glimpse into ancient Incan life and is a great base for exploring nearby attractions.

• Moray: Known for its circular agricultural terraces, Moray is an impressive archaeological site believed to have been used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation.

• Pisac Market: For a more local experience, Pisac Market is the perfect place to shop for traditional Peruvian crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The market also offers a chance to interact with locals and learn more about the vibrant culture of the Sacred Valley.

Souvenirs at the Pisac artisan market, Peru.

LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations in the Sacred Valley

Peru’s tourism industry is evolving, and many hotels and guesthouses in the Sacred Valley are welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations or a more intimate, boutique experience, you’ll find plenty of options that cater to the needs of queer women travelers.

Some LGBTQ+ friendly options include:

• Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba: Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, this eco-luxury hotel is known for its beautiful surroundings, sustainable practices, and welcoming atmosphere.

• Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa: Offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley, this luxurious resort combines modern amenities with traditional Peruvian architecture and hospitality.

• Explora Valle Sagrado: This eco-friendly lodge offers adventure travel packages, providing an ideal blend of nature, culture, and comfort.

Adventure Activities for Queer Women in the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley isn’t just about culture and history—it’s also a playground for adventure lovers. From hiking to ancient ruins to kayaking on serene lakes, the area offers plenty of exciting activities for those looking to get their adrenaline pumping.

• Hiking the Inca Trail: One of the most popular treks in the world, the Inca Trail takes you through the Sacred Valley’s stunning landscapes and leads to the breathtaking Machu Picchu. For queer women travelers, group tours are a great option for added safety and companionship.

• Kayaking in the Sacred Valley: For those seeking a more tranquil adventure, kayaking on the serene waters of Lake Piuray offers incredible views of the Andes mountains and an opportunity to connect with nature.

• Horseback Riding: Explore the Sacred Valley on horseback with one of the many local tour operators offering scenic rides through the valley’s picturesque terrain.

Queer Women’s Safety in Peru: Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

While Peru is becoming more inclusive, it’s important for LGBTQ+ travelers, especially queer women, to be mindful of cultural norms and customs. The Sacred Valley and tourist-heavy areas are generally safe and welcoming, but public displays of affection may still be frowned upon in more conservative regions.

Tips for Safe Travel in the Sacred Valley:

• Join LGBTQ+ Friendly Tours: Many tour companies, like those affiliated with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), offer queer-friendly group trips to the Sacred Valley, ensuring a safe and inclusive experience.

• Be Mindful of Local Customs: While the Sacred Valley is a welcoming destination, it’s always a good idea to be aware of local customs and avoid excessive public displays of affection.

• Stay in LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations: Choosing queer-friendly accommodations ensures a more comfortable and safe stay while traveling in Peru.

Women’s Adventure to Peru.

Book Your Queer Women’s Adventure to Peru

Peru’s Sacred Valley offers an unforgettable travel experience for queer women, combining rich cultural history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient ruins, relax in eco-luxury accommodations, or embark on an adventurous trek, the Sacred Valley has something for every queer traveler.

Click this link to check out our itinerary and book your spot on our queer women’s group trip to Peru and experience the magic of the Sacred Valley for yourself!

Ultimate LGBTQ+ Women’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta: Beaches, Bars, and More

If you’re looking for an unforgettable getaway that offers LGBTQ+ inclusivity, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches, Puerto Vallarta is the place to be. This charming city on Mexico’s Pacific coast is known for its old-town charm, welcoming atmosphere, and buzzing LGBTQ+ scene—particularly for queer women. In this guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit beaches, bars, and hotspots that every LGBTQ+ woman should experience in Puerto Vallarta.

Lesbian beach party at Puerto Vallarta Lesbian Pride

Zona Romantica: The Heart of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ Scene

Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene is centered in the iconic Zona Romantica, often referred to as the “gayborhood” of the city. With its narrow cobblestone streets, queer-owned businesses, and buzzing nightlife, Zona Romantica is the heart of LGBTQ+ culture in Puerto Vallarta.

For queer women, this area offers a welcoming, inclusive vibe with plenty of spots to relax, dance, or enjoy a drink. You’ll find a mix of LGBTQ+ friendly cafes, cocktail bars, and beach clubs, such as the Mantamar Beach Club and the Blue Chairs Resort, both popular with queer travelers.

If you’re looking for a lively yet relaxed scene, make Zona Romantica your base. From here, you can explore the surrounding areas and experience all that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Beaches in Puerto Vallarta

One of the biggest draws to Puerto Vallarta is its sun-drenched beaches. The city is home to some of the most LGBTQ+ friendly beaches in Mexico, offering safe and inclusive spaces for queer women to enjoy the ocean and relax.

Los Muertos Beach is a must-visit. Known for its stunning views and welcoming vibe, it’s one of the most popular spots for LGBTQ+ travelers. The beach’s “gay section” is located between Mantamar Beach Club and Sapphire Beach Club. It’s the perfect area to soak up the sun, grab a cocktail, and meet fellow LGBTQ+ women travelers especially at Ritmos Cafe and Sapphire Beach Club.

For something a little more secluded, head to Mixto Beachclub in Quimixto. This beach offers a more tranquil setting, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying a queer-friendly atmosphere.

Night party at Puerto Vallarta Lesbian Pride

Top Bars and Nightlife for Queer Women

Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife is vibrant, colorful, and diverse, with plenty of spots that cater to the queer community. For queer women looking to enjoy a night out, there are several standout venues worth visiting.

Start your night at Elixir Mixology Bar, a lesbian-owned cocktail bar that’s a favorite among queer women. With its creative cocktails and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to kick off your evening before heading to other nightlife spots.

Another popular choice is La Catrina Cantina, a lively bar known for its welcoming atmosphere and regular LGBTQ+ events. It’s a great place to meet other queer women and dance the night away in a fun, inclusive space.

For those wanting to enjoy a more relaxed evening, check out Café Versalles, a lesbian-owned café located just outside of the Zona Romantica. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or enjoying a light meal, this cozy café offers a welcoming space for queer women to connect and relax.

Queer Women’s Travel Tips: Safety and Fun in Puerto Vallarta

While Puerto Vallarta is known for being one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Mexico, it’s always important to stay mindful of local customs. Zona Romantica is a safe space where you can feel comfortable being yourself, but like any travel destination, it’s best to exercise caution, particularly when venturing outside LGBTQ+ areas.

If you’re new to Puerto Vallarta or traveling alone, consider joining one of the many queer women’s group tours available in the area. These tours offer a great way to meet other LGBTQ+ women and experience the city in a safe, friendly environment.

Ready to Book Your Next Queer Adventure?

Puerto Vallarta is calling! From its LGBTQ+ friendly beaches and buzzing nightlife to its warm, welcoming atmosphere, this city is the perfect destination for queer women looking to relax, explore, and have fun.

Contact us today to book your spot at one of our LGBTQ+ women’s group trips, PV Lesbian Pride Vacation, and experience the best that Puerto Vallarta has to offer!

It’s PRIDE Season!

Haaaaappy Pride! It’s been an amazing few weeks celebrating Pride in different cities and it’s just the beginning with still so many cities that have upcoming Pride celebrations. We kicked things off at Puerto Vallarta Lesbian Pride over Memorial Day Weekend and it was a blast! Puerto Vallarta is one of the most gay friendly cities in Mexico but it’s always been more dominated by gay men. This year we collaborated with the local lgbtq women’s businesses in Vallarta to bring a womxn’s week!

Puerto Vallarta Pride Parade

We started the week with the Pride Parade and the streets were filled with people in the community and supporters! I was impressed with the turnout and expect the parade will grow over the next few years for sure. From that we kicked off with Lesbian Owned Elixir Mixology Bar for the welcome party, then a Taco Tour with Vallarta Local Tours ( I even learned some new things about the food history in Vallarta which was fascinating), lastly our weekend parties. It was beautiful to see many women from all different backgrounds- Mexicans, Americans, Canadians, Europeans, even Asian just enjoying the music and vibe. I watched everyone with delight as I know the importance of having a safe space and that we had all week, it was worth all the work!

Sapphire Beach Club Party

Why is this important? It’s important because as mentioned for years gay men have dominated the Pride celebrations in PV. Don’t get me wrong I love the boys but truthfully it’s just a different energy when there’s more of them than us so we are hopeful to keep growing year after year and have more “L” visibility for Pride in Vallarta. Even the parade only had one float representing womxn so we hope to change that soon. Pride in Vallarta is typically the last week of May so mark your calendar to be in town next year. Vallarta has so much to offer- culture, beaches, nightlife, gastronomy, and more so make sure you don’t miss out next year as it will be a week to remember!

Details to book your Puerto Vallarta Pride Vacation will be available in the next few weeks so stay in TOUCH…

Southern Mexico’s Lesbian Vacation

When it comes to Mexico, people often think about Cancun, Tulum, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta but Mexico has so many more gems in its big country, and we found one of them- Costa Maya! Honestly, I never heard of Costa Maya but have heard about Bacalar and was curious to check it out.

Costa Maya is in Quintana Roo between Tulum and Chetumal which are the nearby more popular towns by the coast. It’s a small port town with a growing population. What I love about Mahahual, the town in Costa Maya, is that the beach is super pretty (Maldives like) with clear warm waters and white sand. Outside of the beautiful beach, there aren’t many tourists like Cancun and Tulum making it more relaxing as well as enjoyable. The other thing I just thought about is that I never felt unsafe while being there because it’s a small town where a lot of the locals all know each other so you get that family feel.

Some of the popular excursions in Costa Maya are snorkeling, diving, Bacalar lagoon, visiting the Mayan pyramids, cenotes, and rapid river. It is said that Xcalak just south of Mahahual has some of the most beautiful reefs in the world to go snorkeling and diving. In Mahahual there are many reefs close to the beach so you can get some beautiful views there too. If you love snorkeling or diving, these places are a must! Bacalar lagoon or the 7 Colors Lagoon as they call it is spectacular. You literally see multiple colors in the water the further south you go on the lagoon. The town of Bacalar is super cute and boho but a little on the pricier side but you can certainly make it a day trip from Mahahual. Bacalar is also considered a “Pueblo Magico” a “Magical Town” which means that the government does as much as possible to preserve its beauty and nature. When vising Costa Maya, you can’t miss Bacalar and its Blue Cenote which is quite large and outdoors unlike many underground cenotes. In Bacalar I got the chance to go kayaking at sunrise and it was such a beautiful experience to be out in the lake with the sounds of wildlife around and the sun creeping up above the water.  The Rapids is also a quite unique beauty as you can float along the river, kayak, etc and see the multiple colors of the water as well as wildlife. One of the last popular excursions in Costa Maya is visiting the Mayan pyramids. Mayans were so ahead of their time and if you notice how big their civilization was, it extends from Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras so you will find many pyramids in the Costa Maya area, some that are covered and others that have been excavated. Learning their culture and understanding what they built is a humbling experience. You see? It’s hard not to not enjoy Costa Maya and its surrounding towns when there is so much to do and see.

Costa Maya is gay friendly like most of Quintana Roo and there’s a chill vibe that you get in the south where no one is trying to be more than they are. It’s just fun beach bars on the Malecon, delicious seafood, boho style hotels, and excursions that fill up your vacation if you visit. With all that said, what are you waiting for? Start booking your tickets! If you feel shy going by yourself to Costa Maya, join our group trip this Spring March 25- Apr 1st, 2022 as we’ll be exploring the area with other like minded travel lovers! Trip details are available at https://tri.ps/6jo8g What ever you decide just make sure that you don’t miss out on this hidden gem in southern Mexico!

Lesbian Friendly Mykonos

Without a doubt Greece is one of those countries that everyone has on their bucket list. From the beautiful white houses and deep blue sea its no wonder why it is! Ladies Touch Travel had its first lesbian vacation to Greece in 2019 around Memorial Day Weekend and we had an amazing time! We first stopped in Athens and stayed overnight to then make it down to Mykonos. Once we arrived at our destination it was love at first sight! After our week in LGBTQ friendly Mykonos, it’s easy to say what are some of the top lesbian friendly things to do while in town.

#1- Visit Elia Beach- Elia Beach, a quiet beach cove in Mykonos is super gay friendly with pride flags standing tall towards the west side of the beach. On our first group trip we stayed at the beachfront Elia Beach Resort which gave us the convenience of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea right at our footsteps. Elia is a lot calmer than some of your other beaches, but many people appreciate that so if that’s the vibe you want, get a chair, relax, and enjoy!

#2- Spend the day at Jackie O Beach club- Jackie O Beach Club is nestled in the hills of Super Paradise Beach. Super Paradise Beach is another top LGBTQ spot to hang out and very gay friendly. This beach cove is a lot livelier with EDM music loudly playing all across the beach at various venues. There are several beach clubs options, but Jackie O has drag shows and LGBTQ events to keep you entertained. There are also water sports so if you like tubing, jet skiing, etc.

#3- Sail across the Mediterranean with some friends- One of the best experiences in Mykonos is to sail in an authentic Greek sailboat. These sailboats are big, with wood, and beautiful sails and the only way to truly appreciate it is by enjoying the day out in the sea. With all the great beach coves around Mykonos Island, you can spend a full day sailing. Usually, sailing tours have drinks and lunch provided so grab your friends and delight in the experience.

#4- Go shopping in Mykonos Town- Chora/Mykonos Town is the main town in Mykonos that has a lot of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The town is gay friendly and beautiful to walk through. White house’s holding business establishments with blue or red outlining around them, the windmills, and several Catholic churches keep tourists busy in this area. These streets are truly dreamy and full of history which makes it that much more unforgettable. We spent a good amount of time shopping in Chora and had some yummy Greek food afterwards.

#5- Go Gay Club Hopping- Mykonos Town as mentioned is where there are many restaurants and clubs including some fun gay clubs. On our group trip we got to go to 54 Cocktail Bar, Babylon, and Lola Bar. We danced and battled the gay bois, created a soul train line, and danced til we dropped. 54 Cocktail Bar had yummy cocktails, Babylon had a fun drag show, and Lola had a great DJ that kept us on the dancefloor so definitely check out those spots when you are on the island.

Overall, Mykonos is very lesbian friendly, although you may find more boiis on vacation there, it doesn’t mean that there’s no space for us women because there is! We were welcomed everywhere and loved the Greek hospitality! If you have Greece on your bucket list, get out there soon as its not as crowed as it usually is. Typically, Mykonos in the summer is very packed with people visiting from all over the world so it’s best to go in the shoulder season which is right before or after the summer. You’ll also get some deals on pricing as the summer is way more expensive. Ladies Touch Travel has a Baecation in Mykonos at the end of September so if you want to take your special someone for a Mediterranean getaway sign up as we have limited rooms and will sell out. Trip details are available at: https://tri.ps/Mpx7S People always think of Mykonos as the party island which is true in comparison to other Greek Islands, but Mykonos offers so much more so join us to see all the beauties that the island has to offer. See you soon in Mykonos!