OUR APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

Our Impact

We are committed to minimising our environmental impact, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage in all our operations. By travelling with us us, you are not just embarking on a journey; you are contributing to a more sustainable future for travel and the planet.

In the office

  • We source office supplies from sustainable and ethical suppliers whenever possible.

  • We have implemented flexible work from home options for roles where it works.
  • We have in place responsible waste management and recycling programs.

  • We have started the Travelife certification for tour operators, a recognized training, management, and certification program for sustainability in tourism. We are at Stage 2 – Travelife Partner.

  • We encourage our staff to take an active interest in responsible tourism.
  • We are actively committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, while giving priority to locals.

During our tours

  • We have gone paperless: we phased out paper filing and implemented digital client’s roadbooks.
  • We provide reusable glass bottles and cotton bags on our guided tours instead of disposable ones.

  • We promote tours that support local conservation efforts, traditional crafts, and cultural preservation.
  • We do not promote activities or excursions with captive wildlife. See the list of tours we do not promote here.

  • We educate our clients on local customs and etiquette to ensure respectful interactions.
  • We give priority to eco-certified hotels, lodges, and transportation companies with strong environmental practices.
  • We partner with conservation organizations.
  • We have integrated a carbon footprint calculator on our website to help travelers understand their impact.

On the local communities

  • We employ local guides, drivers etc for all our tours and ensure they are compensated fairly for their services.
  • We prioritize locally-owned businesses and experiences that directly benefit residents’ livelihoods.

  • We actively seek out and promote experiences that showcase authentic local culture and traditions.
  • We offer paid internship and work opportunities to recent South African graduates, with a particular focus on empowering women in the workforce.

  • We contribute a percentage of our profits to local community development projects. See how we give back here.

  • We recommend locally-owned hotels, restaurants, and shops in the destination guide we provide for each destination.
  • We encourage customers to purchase ethically and responsibly.

As a SATSA member, we adhere to the Animal Interaction Charter, which sets guidelines for ethical animal interaction activities. There are some types of holidays that we do not offer based on our environment or social beliefs – please see below. We have also started screening every holiday against our criteria for responsible travel.