Kruger family safari, South Africa

Planet

Both properties in Kruger National Park are Fair Trade accredited. This means that we have chosen properties that really do make a real difference to the lives of everyone involved in the 2 camps. Lodges constructed in an environmentally-friendly manner using natural materials and minimizing the use of concrete. They generate their own power with a generator and back-up battery system power (however generator is switched off at night to reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution), monitor water consumption and have a grey-water filtration system which is filtered through a natural reed bed system and tested monthly to ensure the quality of the water returning to the system. They also recycle. As this is a walking safari this is low impact transport. This walking safari was the first operation to be certified as Fair Trade in the southern Kruger Park. Both use environmentally friendly toilet paper and printing paper. You will be staying in a wilderness concession which means the animals are not habituated and there is no damage to nature. Very strict conservation ethics.

We have chosen Sabi Sands for the final safari as it has sustainable wilderness tourism and is part of the largest conservation area in South Africa. The lodge you will stay in has an eco-friendly approach to lodge design. At night the camp is light by candles or paraffin lamps only.

As you will be paying for conservation fees this goes towards conservation and anti-poaching costs.

People

Both properties in Kruger National Park are Fair Trade accredited. this means that they have made a commitment to how they treat their staff and surrounding community. The guides hold high practical qualification for guiding on foot and are local staff plus there is assistant Trail Rangers who are usually employed from retiring SANParks Field Rangers.

The Sabi Sands lodge is involved in helping the surrounding community with activities to help them generate income. The lodge is also family-owned and family-run too so you are supporting local. The lodge is fully independent. While staying there you will also have the opportunity to visit the local Shangaan community for a half day visit as a cultural tour. Supporting the local community gives visitors the opportunity to experience a destination and better understand the local culture. Consider the local communities living conditions, rules/laws of the country, taboos of society, social norms, appropriate gestures and attire. Keep an open mindset in order to see the perspectives of the people. Travelers gain a firsthand experience of the local culture.

Tipping suggestion as it your sole discretion, but usually between ZAR200 to ZAR350 per room per night.

The best strategy is not only being good for conservation but also for the community.