Responsible Tourism

Responsible Tourism is fast becoming a global trend which is great news as it's about time we took stock of not just our environment, but the local people and the local economies of where it is we wish to travel.

In a nutshell Responsible Tourism is tourism that, 'creates better places for people to live in and better places to visit.'

The 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations defined Responsible Tourism as follows:

Responsible Tourism is tourism which:

minimises negative economic, environmental and social impacts
generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well being of host communities
improves working conditions and access to the industry
involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances
makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage embracing diversity
provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues
provides access for physically challenged people
is culturally sensitive, encourages respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence

Although a small company, Ku Tunza are big on being responsible. We employ individuals from the surrounding community who help us with the servicing our vehicles, to providing locally home grown fruit and vegetables. The markets and food stalls within the towns that we travel are a great source of produce and it's here that we purchase the shopping for our safaris.

Ku Tunza offer training and work experience to individuals from the local community. So far we have had seven young men spend on average six months learning new skills within the workshop as well as office management. Several of these men have young families and left school at 16, so to have the chance of travelling their own country whilst learning and receiving an income is a great opportunity for them.

On our scheduled adventure camping safaris we often stay in rural campsites where we depart having left them as we found them, tidy and rubbish free. Ku Tunza hire local guides wherever possible and work closely with British registered charity, Soft Power Education who improve the quality of community life through education. For every Soft Power volunteer who books onto one of our scheduled safaris we give a direct donation back to the charity.

Whilst on safari you will be encouraged to show respect when taking photographs of people - not everyone is keen for the camera lens, so if in doubt always ask first. Please do not give out sweets, chocolate, lollies or money - we try to discourage begging as it not only has a negative social affect, but it helps continue Africa's want and reliance on International Aid. If you want to give something speak with your guide to see where or how you can donate as your contribution can certainly have a positive impact when carried out in the right way.

Take time to respect the culture of the people whose land you are travelling through, source locally handmade crafts and leave everything just as you found it. Be conscious of the little things, as it's you who can help us all to make a difference. Enjoy your safari, and remember a simple wave and a smile goes a long way.