Walking and Wildlife in South Africa vacation

Planet

This trip explores the wilderness of South Africa on foot visiting several protected areas, our leaders take time to advise customers about looking after the environments they are exploring. All our groups are advised to keep a safe and fair distance between themselves and wildlife, and to not pick any flowers. In many parks flora is also protected much like wildlife, so leaders will educate groups about what they can see and the importance of sticking to footpaths, not leaving litter and having minimal impact.

We have taken care to ensure we are game-watching in the most responsible way. We use a trusted and experienced guides who understand the importance of protecting the wildlife. The crew will educate groups about the wildlife within the national park. We will visit Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, which is the oldest protected park in Africa and has been putting energy into the conservation efforts since 1895 leading to the park having the largest population of white rhino in the world.

As a travel company we are continually looking for ways to improve and are proud to be ‘Responsible in everything we do’. Education is key, and so all staff, Tour Leaders and partnering suppliers are trained in responsible and sustainable tourism. At our Head Office, we continually strive towards a sustainable and planet-friendly working environment, including having solar panels installed and a company commitment to reducing our plastic usage.

People

Throughout the trip we stay at locally owned lodges; the Sungubala Eco Camp is set on a secluded farm in the Drakensberg Mountains and all power is wind and solar generated. The Mpila Camp in Hluhluwe iMfolozi game reserve is built in a traditional style with brick structures under a thatch roof, the rooms are kept nice and cool thanks to the high ceilings so air conditioning is not necessary. We self cater whilst at the lodges, employing local chefs and support crew who prepares the meals with fresh produce and customers can enjoy traditional braai (Barbecue).

Alongside a conservation fee the parks in South Africa (including the ones visited on this trip) include a 1% community levy. This is invested to benefit communities located in the areas adjacent to the parks; health care, schools and other much needed infrastructure, with a long-term aim to build sustainable relationships between residents and visitors.

As a company we have valuable and longstanding partnerships with UK charities Toilet Twinning and Send a Cow, plus many smaller initiatives and projects around the world. We’re members of the UK travel industry body AITO because we believe it’s important to share our knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other operators.