These days, you’ll struggle to find a safari company that doesn’t claim to “give back”. But there’s a big difference between a service built to solve a problem and one that is rebranded to soften its harm.
It’s all too easy to start a safari agency, create a few itineraries and slap on marketing about donating a percentage to conservation. That doesn’t mean they’re making a difference. Offering a marginally better option isn’t enough – it’s just a “less guilty” alternative.
So how do you spot a truly conservation-driven safari tour operator and how do you find the brand that matches your values? Ask yourself:
- Why did the founders start the company?
- Are they here for more than just personal gain?
- Are they transparent about how, where and how much they contribute to conservation?
Companies that are in it for the right reasons put their contributions front and centre without using vague language or presenting numbers. Because it is built into their business model – not retrofitted onto business-as-usual.
True sustainability matches your values
Africa is massive, its beauty undeniable but its problems aplenty. From community upliftment to wildlife conservation and top-secret anti-poaching operations, conservation challenges in need of solutions are everywhere.
Finding the one that aligns closest with your values is key. Choose a safari provider that shares your values and you’ll gain more than photos – you’ll make a meaningful impact.
‘It’s the economy, stupid’
To keep wild spaces safe, they need to make money to pay salaries, maintain infrastructure and sustain ecosystems. Today’s accessible wild spaces are simply too small to be self-reliant.
In a time when we can’t really be sure that our vote is going to cut it, your real power lies where you spend your money. If you want your dollars to do good in this world, choose to spend them with companies that share that goal.
A badge or two doesn’t clear the conscience
Sustainable travel badges and awards are slapped onto so many websites – they’ve lost all meaning. Few require real assessment and many are used to “simple-splain” their so-called values to consumers they think are unable to distinguish real from fake. Truly sustainable operators don’t need flashy badges to prove a point. They’re in it for the long haul, not the hype.
No need to ‘skip the beef’
In safari conservation, you don’t have to sacrifice luxury. You don’t need to camp out in the middle of nowhere and poop in a hole in the ground to minimise the ecological footprint of your safari. Don’t want to visit the local projects? Then don’t.
You can have ultimate luxury, at competitive prices, without guilt. With the right safari provider, sustainability happens behind the scenes. You decide how much you want to get involved. Either way, you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.
Sustainability aspirations aren’t the differentiator – purpose is
As corporations worldwide disinvest in sustainability, your choice becomes even more powerful. You don’t have to settle. There are safari providers who exist to solve problems, not just to sell safaris.
Ask yourself: What purpose does the safari operator serve? Profit or creating safari experiences that are more, do more, give more? Is their conservation impact top priority or just pretty marketing language?
The best safari companies exist first and foremost to protect, conserve and expand wild spaces – to ensure, even in 100 years from now, there are still wild spaces to safari to.
