Cape Town, Kruger and Victoria Falls vacation, South Africa

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION:
Responsible travel sits at the core of everything we do, which is why we developed the first carbon scoring system of its kind. This pioneering tool measures the environmental impact of every tailor-made journey. By working closely with our suppliers through a detailed carbon-scoring survey, we gain valuable insights into where we’re doing well and where we can improve. It also helps us set clear, measurable targets to reduce emissions across our itineraries. With regular monitoring and adjustments, we’re making sure each trip becomes steadily greener, without ever compromising the quality of your experience.

At Bateleur Safari Camp, eco-friendly practices go hand in hand with a deep respect for the bush. The camp runs almost entirely on solar power, water comes from a clean underground aquifer, and reusable stainless steel bottles are provided in place of plastic. Game drives are conducted with care, avoiding fragile areas, while walking safaris offer guests the chance to experience the wilderness in the most sustainable way.

ENVIRONMENT & WILDLIFE:
At Ilala Lodge, conservation is woven into daily operations. Regular contributions support the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU), a vital organisation dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating wildlife and safeguarding natural resources. The team also leads monthly clean-ups around town and has installed over 20 baboon-proof waste bins in the rainforest to protect one of the world’s great natural wonders. Waste is carefully reduced, separated, and recycled, with initiatives such as glass water bottles replacing plastic and grey water being reused for compost and gardens.

At Bateleur Safari Camp, roads have been closed to restore natural habitats, and the camp itself has been designed to blend into its surroundings, able to return to wilderness within just 12–18 months if dismantled. Beyond wildlife, Bateleur also nurtures an on-site vegetable and herb garden, using compost and natural methods to reduce its footprint and contribute to a self-sustaining future.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY:
At Ilala Lodge, the Palm Hospitality Group Foundation brings staff and guests together to make a real difference in Victoria Falls. From funding schools, hospitals, and local NGOs to backing community fundraisers, these initiatives help strengthen the town’s economy and wellbeing. Guests are also invited to play a part, whether by opting for simple eco-conscious choices like reduced linen changes or by contributing to Greenline Africa projects. These include “Water for Elephants”, “Sponsor a Gogo/Child”, and smallholder farming programmes, all of which directly benefit local families and livelihoods.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY & DIVERSITY:
At Ilala Lodge, every stay supports responsible tourism, helping to preserve cultural heritage while creating meaningful jobs in Victoria Falls. Guests can choose from a wide range of activities run by local professionals, from serene Ra-Ikane river cruises on the Zambezi to thrilling helicopter flights over the Falls. Village tours offer the chance to taste local cuisine, experience traditional life, and directly support community-led enterprises.
At Bateleur Safari Camp, expert guides and rangers share their indigenous knowledge of the bush, providing guests with authentic insights while creating valuable career opportunities for local people. By encouraging eco-tourism as a sustainable employment path, the camp helps strengthen communities and celebrates the diversity of skills and traditions that make the region so special.