Travel is of course responsible for its share of damaging carbon emissions. It does, however, provide substantial benefits which we would argue as conservationists make a strong case for wildlife enthusiasts to continue travelling. If we stopped bringing our customers to the national parks, wildlife reserves and the wilderness regions of Africa, many of these areas, would simply disappear and with them their flora and fauna. Not only does tourism support rural communities but it supports them to preserve their natural and cultural heritage for the future generations whom, hopefully, will have the wealth and opportunities to enjoy the natural heritage.

If you do choose to travel, then ‘Travel Responsibly!’. We ensure that YOU, and US as your travel company, are off-setting all emissions that relate to your journey. We try to reduce the environmental impact in your chosen destination much as possible, and allow your travels to bring benefits to the local people, communities and the wildlife that you meet along the way.

We encourage all of our customers to consider the following suggestions and take a responsible approach to tourism:

1. Support our tree planting initiative.

Air travel is one of the major causes of global warming and many of our holidays involve flying. We invite every person who secures a booking with us to plant trees while on safari and to support our trees planting initiative that goes towards offsetting the carbon emissions from aspects of their holiday (airport transfers, road travel, lighting, heating, etc.)

2. Put wildlife first

Watch and photograph wildlife with minimum obtrusion and always respect the viewing instructions of your driver guide and safari experience leader. Remember that all wildlife sightings are a bonus; none are guaranteed! Never remove a specimen – whether plant, seed or animal – from its natural environment.

3. Respect others

Before travelling, read widely to familiarise yourself with your destination’s history, background, culture, customs and standards. Dress practically and conservatively and observe local dress codes in order to respect your host country’s cultural or religious beliefs.

4. Use of safari guides

Use your driver guide and safari experience leader to the full in a positive way; allow them to shine and revel in enthusing about their country. Get to know them, ask them questions, show your appreciation, and make their job fun. By showing your interest in the local wildlife and environment to your driver guide, safari experience leader and other local staff, you are actively developing their pride and interest in their environment.

5. Be a considerate photographer

Be sensitive to local conditions, laws and customs when taking photographs, asking your safari experience leader or driver guide if ever in doubt. Always seek advice and their permission before photographing local people.

6. Buy thoughtful souvenirs

Be selective. Buy locally made goods which support traditional culture and crafts and discourage the import of other goods. Avoid souvenirs sold to the detriment of wildlife and the environment (shells, corals, skins, ivory, hard wood products, etc). Try to ensure a fair price when bargaining, taking advice from your guide if you are unsure about an appropriate amount.

7. Avoid gratuitous gifts

Handouts of sweets, etc. undermine pride and cause tooth decay. If you wish to support the local community in the area that you are travelling to, we are always happy to arrange donations of useful materials to local schools, charitable and nature organisations.

8. Reduce your waste

Consider what you need to take on your holiday carefully before you travel, removing all plastic and unnecessary packaging and wrapping. Bring a water bottle with you to refill and by so doing we avoid bottled water in single-use plastic on your tour.

9. Choose environmentally friendly travel products

Use environmentally friendly shampoos, soaps, etc and coral-friendly sun cream when snorkelling over fragile coral reef environments. Taking these with you from home also means you can avoid opening new mini shampoos and soaps, and then binning the single-use plastic, every time you arrive at a new hotel.

10. Conserve energy and water

Conserve energy by turning off lights, air-conditioning, heating, etc. when not required, and reuse your sheets and towels for several days… in short, treat your hotel room as you would your own home!

11. Communicate

Leave only friendship behind in the destinations you visit. Always communicate with local people in a friendly manner and try to learn a few words and phrases of the local language. Accept local foods or drinks when offered them, and indicate to your hosts your interest in, and support for, their wildlife, landscapes and culture. This will help to promote their value, both to local people and, ultimately, their governments. 

12. Support local and International wildlife conservation organisations

Read widely about your destination’s biodiversity and conservation priorities before your departure. Wildlife conservation organisations such as Nature Kenya are worth contacting or even joining.