Beyond Borders: Must-Visit International Destinations Honoring Black History

Black history is a global narrative of resilience, culture, and innovation. Beyond the usual United States destinations like Atlanta, Birmingham, Selma, Washington DC, and others that played integral roles in the Civil Rights movement and other pivotal moments in Black

American history, there are numerous international destinations that have played a crucial role in shaping the experiences and contributions of Black communities worldwide. From sites of historical resistance to thriving cultural hubs, here are some of the most significant places to explore.

1. Cape Coast Castle – Ghana

A sobering and essential visit, Cape Coast Castle was a major hub during the transatlantic slave trade. Now a museum, the site provides insight into the harrowing journey of enslaved Africans and serves as a place of reflection and remembrance. If you’re not subscribed to our newsletter, be sure to do so by going to reidtravelteam.com. We will be traveling to Ghana to explore this site for ourselves for Thanksgiving, 2026!

2. Gorée Island – Senegal

This UNESCO World Heritage site is another home to the slave trade. The House of Slaves and the Door of No Return, symbolize the brutal history of slavery. Visitors can explore the island’s poignant history while also experiencing its rich culture and stunning coastal views.

3. Robben Island – South Africa

Robben Island, off the coast of Cape Town, is where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were imprisoned. A tour of the island offers powerful insights into South Africa’s struggle for freedom and equality. If you’re not already following us, we’re headed to South Africa to explore Robben Island and more in just over a month. I hope that you will follow our journey!

4. Salvador – Brazil

With one of the largest Afro-descendant populations outside Africa, Salvador is a vibrant center of Afro-Brazilian culture. Visitors can experience traditional music, capoeira, and Candomblé rituals while learning about the history of enslaved Africans in Brazil.

5. Le Morne Brabant – Mauritius

This small, UNESCO-listed mountain off the eastern coast of South Africa was a refuge for escaped enslaved people in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it stands as a symbol of resistance and resilience, offering breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of Mauritius’ past.

6. Little Africa – Paris, France

This cultural district in Paris is home to a thriving African and Afro-Caribbean community. Visitors can explore art galleries, fashion boutiques, and restaurants that celebrate African heritage and influence in France.

7. Zanzibar – Tanzania

Once a key hub in the Indian Ocean slave trade, Zanzibar’s Stone Town offers a mix of history and culture. Visitors can explore former slave markets, museums, and the island’s rich Swahili heritage.

8. Kingston – Jamaica

The birthplace of reggae and a hub of Black empowerment, Kingston is home to the Bob Marley Museum and the Trench Town Culture Yard. The city offers a deep dive into the influence of Rastafarian culture and Black resistance movements.

9. Cartagena – Colombia

This Caribbean coastal city has deep African roots, with the nearby village of San Basilio de Palenque being the first free Black town in the Americas. Visitors can experience Palenque’s unique culture, music, and language, which remain preserved today.

10. Addis Ababa – Ethiopia

As the home of the African Union and a symbol of Pan-Africanism, Addis Ababa is a significant destination for those interested in Black history. The city is also a gateway to exploring Ethiopia’s rich heritage, from ancient churches to Emperor Haile Selassie’s legacy.

Exploring Black History Around the World

Visiting any of these international destinations provides a deeper connection to the global African diaspora and would definitely serve to enrich your world view of the Black experience, both domestically and globally. Each site tells a unique story of struggle, survival, and cultural brilliance, offering travelers a meaningful way to engage with Black history beyond borders. Let me know in the comments which place you want to visit most! At this point, we’re all we’ve got! Let’s connect to our roots and across cultures - all across the world!