Responsible Travelling

African Travels > Travel information > Responsible Travelling

Responsible Traveling

Travel that gives more than it takes

At African Travels, we believe your journey through Africa should do more than create unforgettable memories, it should create a positive impact.

As a social enterprise, we design every trip so that it supports local communities, protects nature, and contributes to the long-term future of the destinations you visit.

From the guides who welcome you, to the communities you meet, to the wildlife you encounter – your trip directly benefits the people and places that make Africa so special.

Because for us, travel is not just about where you go.
It’s about what you leave behind.

Africa leaves its mark on you, not you on Africa

  • Working with local partners
    We collaborate with trusted local guides, lodges and small businesses who are deeply connected to their communities.
  • Supporting local economies
    Your trip directly contributes to local jobs, fair income and community development.
  • Choosing conscious accommodations
    Whether staying in lodges or closer to nature, we select places that are small-scale, locally rooted and respectful of their surroundings.
  • Traveling with care
    We make thoughtful choices to reduce our environmental footprint and guide you on how to travel more responsibly.
  • Supporting conservation and community projects
    Across our destinations, your journey contributes to local conservation and community initiatives such as reforestation projects in Kenya.
Experience Africa. Leave a positive impact.

How to travel environmentaly friendly

Litter

When packing, keep in mind that recycling facilities are limited in many parts of Africa. Where possible, remove unnecessary packaging and use biodegradable products. During your trip, keep your waste with you until it can be disposed of properly in towns or cities.

Water

Water may seem plentiful during your trip, but in many parts of Africa people rely on limited seasonal water sources within walking distance, often shared with livestock and wildlife.

With this in mind, we encourage mindful water use and the use of environmentally friendly products. Where safe and possible, we recommend drinking local tap water or use refil stations to help reduce plastic waste from bottled water.

Shopping

Wherever possible, we support local economies in the regions we visit. We encourage our travellers to buy food locally and to purchase souvenirs directly from local artisans.

We discourage the purchase of products made from endangered or protected flora and fauna. When buying souvenirs, we recommend choosing smaller, locally made items to help reduce environmental impact and support sustainable use of natural resources.

Cultures & Respect

Respect for local customs and beliefs is an important part of your journey. Always ask permission before taking photos, as not all cultures are comfortable with this.

Dress modestly where appropriate, as attitudes towards clothing can be more conservative. We also ask you to respect religious beliefs and local traditions at all times.

Taking the time to understand the people you meet will not only prevent misunderstandings, but also enrich your travel experience.

Fires

In many parts of Africa, people rely on wood fires for cooking, and with growing populations this places increasing pressure on natural resources.

While a traditional barbecue is part of the African experience, we aim to limit the use of firewood by using gas cookers wherever possible, helping to preserve local wood supplies.

Flora & Fauna

During your journey, you may pass through fragile and unique ecosystems that deserve special care. While the protection of iconic species like mountain gorillas is well known, every habitat — and the many species within it — is equally important.

Please stay on established paths, respect your surroundings, and leave nature as you find it. During game drives, our experienced guides ensure that wildlife is approached responsibly, with minimal disturbance and full respect for the animals and their space.

We see ourselves as visitors in these extraordinary environments, and aim to leave no negative impact on the wildlife or landscapes we explore.

Entrance fees to national parks directly support conservation efforts, including park maintenance and anti-poaching initiatives.

“

‘Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.’

African Experts

We have worked and lived what we sell. We give honest advise from our personal experience.

24/7 Support

Personal support from an African expert, before, during and after your trip. 

Future proof travelling

We operate in the most sustainable way

More than 30 years experience

We have selected our tours personally. We want to make sure you experience Africa in the best possible way. 

Travel Information

We consider it our duty to let you well prepared board the airplane to start your journey to Africa. Many of our tours come with a Tour Dossier with additional information for your trip. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Below are some guidelines to get you started with your preparations. 

Flights

Financial Protection

How to book

Insurances

Local Payment

Money

Responsible Traveling

Overland truck

Safari Vehicles

Travel Documents

Vaccinations and Health

What to pack

Start planning your dream holiday to Africa!

We will get back to you within 24 hours.
Let's start planning