SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SOUTH AFRICA
Tourism is an industry fuelled by our desire to constantly explore and experience new parts of our world
Some seek out stunning landscapes or unique wildlife, whilst others prefer to delve into history and culture. No matter the goal, it has become increasingly clear that without the correct management of the tourism industry, we can cause a lasting impact on our environment. If the long-term problems become irreversible, this will lead to a decline in the tourism of a destination, ultimately affecting local communities and the planet for which we are responsible.
It is the aim of sustainable tourism to introduce eco friendly practices, develop plans to reduce the impact on the destination and ensure a future for both the tourism industry and the wonders we wish to protect for future generations.
South Africa in recent years has made increasing efforts to reduce impacts on the environment by means of both policy and practice in their growing tourism sectors. The Kruger to Canyon Biosphere Region covers roughly 2.6 million hectares in the north eastern part of South Africa and has successfully introduced a ‘responsible tourism manual’ outlining responsibilities for assessing and monitoring the environmental, social and economic impacts caused by tourism. This has further addressed the need to avoid waste and over-consumption while promoting the sustainable use of local resources.
Lodges and reserves supporting sustainable tourism
It is often something that goes unnoticed but as travellers, we also have a responsibility to know we are backing businesses who support sustainable practices.
Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve
At First Class Holidays we champion South African lodges successfully operating sustainably such as the Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge. Sculpted into the slope of the earth, the Earth Lodge uses texture, light and space to present a lodge like no other. Exuding luxury, with 13 suites with private plunge pools, a gym, spa and boma, you will be transported to a South African paradise. Sabi Sabi employ a habitat management team year-round who implement controlled burning for regrowth of the reserve, waterhole rotation to preserve vegetation and road maintenance for erosion control amongst other methods to ensure the longevity of the reserve and its natural inhabitants.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is another supporter of sustainable tourism. It is nestled in an ancient milkwood forest, with dramatic mountain and sea views maintaining luxury and style in a polished natural setting. Boasting privacy and serenity, guests can choose from the garden or forest lodge suites or an exclusive villa equipped with a balcony and TV whilst the property maintains prestige 5-star dining, spa and pool facilities. Setting a benchmark in sustainable tourism since 2003, the Grootbos Foundation are a non-profit organisation, building projects to utilise ecotourism and empowering community, culture, commerce and conservation. Some successful initiatives include farming of organic produce, recycling candles and clearing alien vegetation. Receiving recognition from the likes of National Geographic and the Responsible Tourism Awards, it’s no surprise the success of the Grootbos initiatives have made a lasting impact.
Pungwe Safari Camp
Pungwe Safari Camp is a hidden gem crossing unfenced borders in three iconic reserves – the remote undeveloped southern portion of the Manyeleti Reserve, the northern border of Sabi Sand Reserve and the eastern border of Kruger National Park. Having such a unique location has resulted in exceptional game viewing due to free roaming between the three reserves.
The camp has thatched roofs over four large tents creating an authentic experience surrounded by the sounds and smells of the wild, whilst maintaining a level of comfort year-round with en-suite facilities, outdoor patio, fireplace and private game viewing opportunities. This four-star property is favourable not only for its authenticity, but for its contributions to conservation and community, employing more than half its staff from Manyaleti. Pungwe supports Nourish, an NGO, implementing various projects in the adjoining communities. Pungwe also proudly sells moringa oil-based and chemical-free products. Pungwe Safari Camp leaves a light ecological footprint by utilizing solar powered refrigerators, lanterns for nightly use and encourages open fire cooking to reduce impacts on the environment. Pungwe also supports a local group of ladies, who recycle and repurpose sedges (plants) and plastic waste into place mats and sell these with all revenue going directly to the ladies. Pungwe is also a continuous sponsor of annual Heritage Day addressing present challenges facing rhino poaching.
Here at First Class Holidays we believe It’s an ongoing responsibility for us all to continue to do our part in sustaining our planet. We will continue to support the companies paving the way for sustainable tourism in South Africa and the world.
Call the team on 0161 888 5632, visit: fcholidays.com, or get in touch with Travel Circle
First Class Holidays
Stretford, Manchester M32 0RS
0161 888 5632
www.fcholidays.com
Travel Circle
54 Derby Road, Longridge, Preston PR3 3FE
01772 786777
enquires@travelcircle.co.uk
