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Sustainable travel in Tanzania is and will become increasingly important in the future.
Read what we think about sustainable travel and what we do to promote sustainable travel in Tanzania. By making tourism more sustainable, each of us can contribute to a better world. Together we make the world a little more sustainable!
What exactly is sustainable travel? Simply put, it’s all about the 3 P’s:
People (care for people & socio-cultural aspects),
Planet (care for nature & environment)
Prosperity (care for good working conditions & shared prosperity).
Safari ASAP is fully committed to supporting local communities by maintaining a positive contribution to their projects, the people, and the environment and wildlife. It is dedicated to opening up the world of volunteer and adventure travel in Africa in an ethical way and actively minimising the negative effects of conventional tourism. Every programme supported can proudly describe their contribution to the local community or environment. By becoming part of the local team for the duration of your stay, you too will become an integral part of the ongoing infrastructure designed to support and maintain worthy and sustainable projects.
- Projects are run with the consensus and support of local authorities.
- Safari ASAP supports the local economy by investing in local projects.
- Always local guides are employed who willingly share their vast expertise. Although Safari ASAP office staff are always available to offer advice and help, the best support and information will naturally come from the on-site experts.
- Safari ASAP focuses on helping whole communities, not just the individual, and encourages cultural sensitivity, ensuring that others are not exploited or their livelihoods diminished by tourism.
- Safari ASAP aims to support self-sustaining communities by helping implement or maintain existing forms of industry and commerce with projects that are environmentally sensitive and sustainable.
- Safari ASAP aims to establish and expand responsible tourism within Africa while actively contributing to the protection and preservation of its amazing wildlife.
- Safari ASAP is a partner in the campaign and regularly checks the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website to ensure it is in line with the latest recommendations.
Here are a few suggestions to facilitate your transition from tourist to responsible traveller:
- Learn a few key courtesy phrases in the local language, such as ‘please which is Samahani in Kiswahili‘ and ‘thank you which is Ahsante in Kiswahili‘ – a little respect goes a long way to promoting goodwill. A number of the travelers placements include basic language skills as part of the initial orientation.
- Remember the economic realities of the new currency: although most of your trip will be inclusive, there will be times when you will want to spend personal money and you may be charged ‘visitor prices’ as opposed to local prices. It is most likely that you earn a lot more than your patrons, so don’t worry about overspending a few rand here or there.
- Bargain fairly, with respect to the seller. The perfect deal is where neither party feels ripped off; you will have engaged in a social custom with ease and good nature.
- Be aware of what you are buying as souvenirs and avoid the purchase of unethical animal produce such as ivory and tortoise-shell. If unsure of an item’s origin, think hard before you buy.
- Be aware of the traditions or taboos of the host country, and follow the examples of the local guides if you are unsure about dress or behavior.
- Arrive with a sense of the political, social, and economic situation in the host country: this awareness will facilitate your immersion into the culture and allow you to better understand the people you help and interact with.
- Above all, show respect for the different cultures and customs you may come across.
Carbon Off-setting
As part of a determined initiative to promote responsible travel, Safari ASAP is now offering a carbon offsetting facility for flights. Whether booked through Safari ASAP or not the carbon emissions generated can be calculated and an informed decision to offset made. The offset payments are made online using a credit card through secure payment service. Travellers will then receive a certificate from ClimateCare noting the CO2 emissions offset through this service.
Carbon offsetting enables everyone to take responsibility for their emissions by paying for CO2 in the atmosphere to be reduced on their behalf. Safari ASAP has linked up with Carbon Tanzania to invest in several relevant emission reduction projects all over Tanzania. For example some of the projects funded will include efficient stoves in central Tanzania.
The Tanzania Stoves Project supplies efficient wood burning stoves to institutions such as schools. As well as reducing greenhouse gases produced from cooking, these stoves reduce the amount of wood fuel needed, helping to reduce deforestation. Cooks also experience the benefits of reduced indoor pollution since the stoves are less smoky, and because the stoves are taller they minimise damage to the cooks’ backs plus the food is easier to cook.
Sustainable development goals and Safari ASAP.
If you book your safari with Safari ASAP, there is a good chance that your booking will contribute to one of the Sustainable Development Goals. We’ll be honest, not every local companies are able to support local projects. But this often has to do with the fact that it concerns a small local organization or a local guide. But in those cases, Safari ASAP directly supports the local population. Even at small independent lodges and accommodations, run by locals, your booking provides direct employment. However, quality will also have to be guaranteed.
We also use larger local organizations and accommodations that are part of a chain. In addition to providing employment to the local population, they are also able to support local projects and the majority do so. In short, if you book your safari with Safari ASAP, you will in most cases also contribute to one of the “Sustainable Development Goals”. Together we may not be able to contribute to all of the 17 goals. But it is often possible to make a contribution with several “goals”. Take a look at the official website of “Sustainable Development Goals” or ask us your question.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sustainable travel in Tanzania?
Sustainable travel in Tanzania means exploring the country in a way that protects nature, respects local cultures, and supports communities. It focuses on minimizing environmental impact while maximizing positive benefits for the people and wildlife. Travelers are encouraged to choose eco, friendly lodges, reduce waste, and respect natural habitats. It’s about enjoying the beauty of Tanzania responsibly. This approach helps ensure that future generations can experience the same incredible landscapes and wildlife.
How can I travel responsibly while on safari?
Traveling responsibly in Tanzania starts with simple choices like following park rules and respecting wildlife. In places like Serengeti National Park, staying on designated tracks helps protect fragile ecosystems. Avoiding single, use plastics and supporting eco, conscious tour operators also makes a difference. Listening to your guide ensures both your safety and the well, being of animals. Small actions can have a big positive impact during your safari.
Do eco, friendly lodges make a difference?
Yes, eco, friendly lodges in Tanzania play a major role in sustainable tourism. Many use solar energy, recycle waste, and conserve water to reduce their environmental footprint. Some lodges also support conservation projects and local employment. Staying at these places helps protect areas like Ngorongoro Crater while supporting responsible tourism. It’s a simple way for travelers to contribute positively during their stay.
How does sustainable travel support local communities?
Sustainable travel in Tanzania directly benefits local communities by creating jobs and supporting small businesses. Cultural tours, local markets, and community, run projects allow travelers to contribute to the local economy. Visiting groups like the Maasai people helps preserve traditions and cultural heritage. Fair wages and ethical tourism practices ensure communities benefit from tourism. This creates a more meaningful and responsible travel experience.
Why is sustainable travel important for Tanzania’s future?
Tanzania’s natural beauty and wildlife are its greatest treasures, and sustainable travel helps protect them. By supporting conservation efforts, travelers help preserve iconic places like Serengeti National Park for future generations. Responsible tourism reduces environmental damage and promotes long, term sustainability. It also encourages better practices across the tourism industry. Choosing sustainable travel ensures that Tanzania remains a world, class destination for years to come.
Still have questions?
Our local safari experts are happy to help you plan the perfect African safari.
