SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Sustainable Tourism Guidelines for Africa Journeys Escapes

At Africa Journeys Escapes, we are committed to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices in all our endeavors. We believe that tourism can be a force for good in the world, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our activities have a positive impact on the communities we visit, while also preserving the environment and supporting local economies. To achieve this, we adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Small Group Philosophy: – Our tours are designed to be low-impact, with a maximum of 20 participants per tour, sometimes even fewer. – By keeping our groups small, we minimize overcrowding at tourist sites and reduce our environmental footprint. – We provide opportunities for free time, allowing our guests to explore independently and spread economic benefits to a wider range of local businesses.
2. Respect for Local Customs: – We prioritize cultural sensitivity and encourage our guests to respect the customs and traditions of the communities they visit. – Our tour guides provide cultural orientation sessions to educate guests about local etiquette and customs, ensuring a respectful and enriching experience for all.
3. Support for Local Businesses: – We actively seek out and support local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and artisanal shops. – By patronizing local businesses, we contribute to the local economy and empower communities to thrive economically.
4. Engagement in Cultural Experiences: – We offer opportunities for our guests to engage in authentic cultural experiences, such as cooking classes, traditional performances, and handicraft workshops. – These experiences not only enrich the travel experience but also contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and support local artisans and performers.
5. Waste Reduction Initiatives: – We are committed to minimizing our environmental impact by reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. – Our groups are encouraged to practice responsible waste management, including proper disposal of litter and recycling where available. – We provide reusable bottles to our guests and aim to transition to reusable alternatives for other disposable items by 2025.
6. Support for Local Accommodation: – We prioritize staying in locally-owned accommodations, such as boutique hotels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges. – This not only supports the local economy but also provides our guests with authentic and immersive experiences in the communities they visit.
7. Sustainable Transport Options: – We carefully consider our transportation choices, aiming to minimize carbon emissions and maximize the cultural experience for our guests. – We utilize a mix of transportation modes, including planes, coaches, trains, and walking, to minimize our environmental impact while providing diverse and memorable travel experiences.