Questions & Advice

Hi Elizabeth, Have a look at the Robin Pope Safaris properties in Zambia and Malawi. As you may already know, operating lodges within rare ecosystems and alongside local indigenous communities comes with a great amount of responsibility. Robin Pope Safaris work hard to reduce their negative footprint and positively impact the environment, and therefore implement a Responsible Tourism Policy to ensure that running their lodges has a lasting, positive effect on the surrounding unique locations. Last year they were joint overall winners at the Virgin Responsible Tourism Awards where they were recognized for their efforts. For more information visit their website: www.robinpopesafaris.net or contact: info@robinpopesafaris.net

On: 04 July 2012

Hondo Hondo Tented Camp in the Udzungwa Mountains Tanzania (http://www.udzungwaforestcamp.com) has received lots of acreditation - see the bottom of the first page of their website. It is running a tree planting project with local schools called A Tree For Me , uses hydro and solar power for lighting and heating water. The lodge works closely with the local communities. The whole site is on the edge of the national park on what was farm land. The tree planting program is returning the area to nature and you can watch endemic primates from the bar! Hondo Hondo provides a comfortable base to hike into the mountains (there is no driving in the Udzungwa Mountians National Park so this helps minimise impacts) where you will have the chance to see many rare species including pygmy chameleons, primates and African Violets in this ancient Eastern Arc Forest. You can also go swimming in the plunge pools of the 180m Sanje waterfall - a truly great experience!

On: 04 July 2012

Sanctuary Olonana has been "Gold Eco-Rated" by Ecotourism Kenya in recognition of the camp's continuous and innovative commitment to conservation and responsible tourism. Sanctuary Olonana is one of only five properties in Kenya to be awarded with a gold eco-rating. Like all Sanctuary properties, Sanctuary Olonana operates around the ethos of “Luxury, naturally”. One of the camp's key projects is an innovative wetland system designed to allow enhanced water conservation. In order to combat increasing deforestation and cultivate trees that are indigenous to the Masai Mara, the camp also has dedicated tree nursery where guests can plant trees. Since the project began in 2000, almost 5000 trees have been planted. There is an organic garden where much of the food served in camp is grown. The camp also supports a number of community projects at Enkereri village close to Sanctuary Olonana, to extend gas piping into designated "cooking huts" in the village in order for them to make use of biogas, a renewable energy source used for cooking and heat. Furthermore, we are working with the village on a project to harvest rainwater for use in a small organic garden and a tree seedling nursery. The project also would reuse the residue sludge from the biogas system, ensuring there is no waste or environmental impact from this endeavour. The implementation of this sustainable energy source will benefit the Maasai of Enkereri in a number of ways: Rather than spending time harvesting and collecting firewood, the Maasai women can useir the time on income generating projects such as beadwork and beekeeping, while at the same time minimising the need for walking in search of firewood and reducing the incidence of human-wildlife conflict. By using biogas for fuel, there is less pressure to harvest wood from the forest, decreasing the threat and burden on fragile woodlands and forests near Maasai villages. This form of fuel decreases the number of flies in the village and with this, the incidence of fly born/transmitted infections and diseases. Enkereri Village, with a population of 200, is located at the foot of the Siria Escarpment close to Sanctuary Olonana. This Maasai village actively works on projects to improve the way of life and education for its people. In 2005, the village built a small school for children aged 2-6. Now, with the help of Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy and guests at Sanctuary Olonana, the village is planning a series of improvements including two new classrooms for older children, planting additional trees around the school, new fencing to increase the safety for students and the provision of key equipment and materials for education and activities. For more information please visit our website at www.sanctuaryretreats.com or you are welcome to contact me at yscanes@sanctuaryretreats.com

On: 04 July 2012

Kenya safari camp Saruni Samburu has been awarded a Silver Eco-Rating by Ecotourism Kenya for demonstrating a move towards ecotourism excellence through showing innovation in responsible resource use, environmental conservation and socio-economic investment. Saruni Samburu joins a host of other Cheli and Peacock properties including Saruni Mara, Elsa’s Kopje, Joy’s Camp, Tortilis Camp, Kitich Camp and Elephant Pepper Camp which has as gold eco-rating! Saruni Samburu is a unique lodge in the Kalama Conservancy, Samburu. All game drives and safari walks are led by professional Samburu guides and the traditions and heritage of the local Samburu people play an important part in the African safari experience here.

On: 04 July 2012

Hi Elizabeth I have just returned from Kenya and stayed at four fantastic camps located in private wildlife conservancies. They are called Porini Camps. These are small personal camps which are temporary tented structures minimising environmental impact but still providing comfortable accommodation with solar powered electricity and eco-friendly amenities. The Porini Camps also benefit the Masai Community (who own the conservancies). It generates an income for the community and employment opportunities for them within the Conservancies. The Porini Amboseli Camp has been rewarded Gold Eco rated certificaton as well as Porini Lion Camp being rewarded by the Good Safari Guide - Best Ecological Safari Property in Africa 2010. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

On: 04 July 2012

Thank you very much for posting this question. The C&P Portfolio in Kenya is renowned for being a collection of small, unique, low impact safari and coastal properties. As a group and individually, we have won a number of Eco Tourism accreditations. Here are some of our latest from 2011 and 2012: 2011/2 Gold Eco-Rating (Ecotourism Kenya) - Elephant Pepper Camp 2011/2 Silver Eco-Rating (Ecotourism Kenya) - Elsa's Kopje, Joy's Camp, Saruni Samburu, Saruni Mara, Tortilis Camp and Kitich Camp. 2012 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards (WTTC) - Cheli & Peacock came runner-up. 2012 Kenya Tourism Awards (which highlight companies demonstating innovative, sustainable, and responsible tourism practices - Cheli & Peacock won Best Tour Operator and Tortilis Camp won Best Small Lodge 2011 Kenya Tourism Awards - The C&P Portfolio won the judges award for Community Support and Elsa's Kopje won Best Small Lodge 2011 Good Safari Guide Awards - Lewa Safari Camp won Best Community Safari Property (won by Loisaba the year before) A number of safari properties within The C&P Portfolio have developed their own trusts, designed to support local communities through education facilities and sponsorship, healthcare facilities, and various other projects. Environmental conservation is also a key ethos within our group, with continuous conservation projects being carried out at each of our properties - from small scale initiatives to large scale projects, even starting up and managing private wildlife conservancies. If you would like to find out more, please feel free to contact us on info@chelipeacock.co.ke. Best, Charlotte

On: 04 July 2012

Hi Elizabeth, there are several properties in Mozambique that are classified as eco-friendly / low impact accommodations. The first to come to mind are Guludo Beach Lodge, situated in the Quirimbas National Park, that have receied various rewards and accreditations for not only their eco friendly lodge but also the work they do with their local community. You can also look at Nuarro Beach Lodge in northern Mozambique as well as Explore Gorongosa - situated in the beautiful Gorongosa National Park. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information on one of these properties.

On: 04 July 2012

Hi Elizabeth, we – Asilia Africa - are a responsible eco-tourism company with camps and lodges in Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar. Protecting the pristine areas we operate in and offering opportunities for local communities to benefit from tourism sits at the heart of our mission. All our camps are carbon-neutral and we encourage our guests to travel in the same way. This has amongst others been recognized by Eco Tourism Kenya (Rekero Camp awarded silver eco-rating in 2011, and 2012 nominee), Sayari as 2011 finalist for Best Ecological Safari Property in Africa and Matemwe, Zanzibar as 2011 finalist for Responsible Hotels of the World and 2011 nominee for the Responsible Tourism Awards. Visit our website www.asiliaafrica.com or contact us at marketing@asiliaafrica.com should you require any more specific information. Kind regards, Marleen

On: 04 July 2012

Dear Elizabeth, We would be delighted to help you with this information for Eastern Africa. We are not linked to any individual properties but we are knowledgeable about and carry out travel to all budget-levels of accommodation in five countries (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda & Ethiopia)and we endeavour to use only those properties that are eco-friendly,for our philosophy, please see: http://www.thesafaricoltd.com/index.php/about-us/travel-green Please feel free to contact me on chania@thesafaricoltd.com for additional information. Best regards Chania The SAFARI Company www.thesafaricoltd.com

On: 04 July 2012

Porini Amboseli Camp in Selenkay was awarded a Gold Eco-rating certificate by Eco-tourism Kenya (one of only 4 in Kenya). This camp was a pioneer in community owned conservancies in partnership with local communities and this model has been now successfully replicated in other parts of Kenya. From a long list of sustainable measures, Porini Amboseli Camp shows commitment to the environment by minimizing their footprint as much as possible and commitment to the local Maasai community through supporting the local people and their livelihoods.

On: 04 July 2012

Hi Elizabeth, thank you for your question. Turtle Bay in Watamu, on the north coast of Kenya, has been pioneering ecologically friendly operating principles for many years now - not just from when it became fashionable! Testament to these high standards are the number of local and international awards that the hotel has received, to name a few: Travelife Gold Award for Sustainability in Tourism, Eco Tourism Kenya silver award winner, winner of the Winner of Best Energy Management Award (EMA) and the KAM Eco Hotel Sector Award for active energy saving systems and policies resulting in a 14% reduction in electrical KWpH consumption year on year with higher occupancies. Not only is the hotel focused on preserving the local fauna and flora, but they are also heavy involved in uplifting the local communities as well. That support is managed by the hotel’s own Eco and Community Officer; who ensures that donations, funds, and the time that the guests give are allocated across a wide spectrum of beneficiaries – from schools, to clinics and customised projects involving youth and sports. Feel free to visit the hotel’s website http://www.turtlebay.co.ke/news.html, or contact me should you require any specific information. All the best, George. IHDM – representatives for Turtle Bay, Kenya.

On: 04 July 2012

Flatdogs Camp, in the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, was the first ever camp to win a South Luangwa Eco Award which is a scheme run under the auspices of the South Luangwa Conservation Society. We won award and were presented with a Silver Accreditation by the judging panel based on many aspects of our operation. Most importantly but not confined to Social Responsibility Projects in the Communities Implementation of renewal energy, waste management policies and general eco friendly camp operations Responsible guiding techniques and policies Staff training and opportunities for all as an employer We also have a policy in our a la carte restaurant to use as much fresh local produce as possible. See our website for more information www.flatdogscamp.com but thanks for your interest in this subject. Adrian Coley MD Flatdogs Camp

On: 06 July 2012

Dear Elizabeth, Campi ya Kanzi, www.maasai.com, is the pioneer of ecotourism in Africa. We are a partnership with the local Maasai community of Kuku Group Ranch, between Amboseli and Tsavo National Park. It is a bit embarassing to be self celebrating what we stand for, but your question deserve a proper answer. The Trust we have created and that is supported by Campi ya Kanzi guests with a $100 conservation fee has received in Rio+20 the Equator Prize, a flagship award from the United Nations. Samson Parashina, President of the Trust, was nominated Champions of the Earth by the United Nations. We were the first lodge to be Gold rated by Ecotourism Kenya and we have won several international eco-awards. An experience with us will be very special and unique and, most important, will help preserving the wilderness, cultural and wildlife heritages of the Maasai of Kuku Group Ranch. If you need further information do not hesitate to contact me: Luca Belpietro, luca@maasai.com Kind regards Luca

On: 06 July 2012

Hi Elizabeth I hope you are well. Sasaab has just been awarded its Gold certification under Kenya’s Eco-rating Scheme, one of only 6 properties in Kenya to achieve this. Below is some information on why Sasaab recieved this award. There are two main areas which are considered- Environmental: There is a veg garden with their own compost from the organic waste. There is a waste policy in place with a reduce, reuse, recycle policy. This goes hand in hand with trying to buy produce from local suppliers and trying to reduce packaging and transport. Sasaab is predominantly solar power. A policy to reduce the use of plastic bottles was implemented across the company and we give every client a stainless steel water bottle. The drinking water is in 18L recyclable containers. We reduced our plastic waste consumption in 2011/2012 by 85% with this initiative. There is a non toxic cleaning program in place and all products are bio degradable The insecticide in the rooms is a natural pyrethreum based spray - non aerosol. One of the main things is to be accountable for what you are doing and able to quantify your improvements. All power and water use is monitored and systems were put in place such as timer switches on sockets to reduce the power consumption and water metres to monitor water use. Socio-Economic: Sasaab employs 75% of their staff from the local community Sasaab has always been very sensitive to the preservation of the culture of the community - promoting it with out changing it as far as is possible. In the last 5 years Sasaab have raised over 8 million shillings in donations which have been spent on: School improvements - building class rooms teacher salaries books/uniforms furniture supplementary school feeding program An education/medical programm for teens - increasing awareness in sexual health and diseases. medical improvements to the clinic purchase of a solar fridge to allow an immunisation clinic A week long eye mission where 133 eye ops were carried out in 7 days It is also vital that all govt licensing etc is in place to be considered. I hope this is of some help, and if you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Many thanks Emma

On: 06 July 2012

Hi Elizabeth, I would like to introduce you to Ol Seki Hemingways Mara: www.hemingways-collection.com Recently acquired a Silver Eco-rating, Ol Seki works and believes in recycling and using environmental friendly material at all times: Use of Sustainable and Eco friendly materials and supplies - The facility design is to use canvas plus material locally available in Kenya; sustainable harvested wood for example. - The camp has used soft natural colours to blend into environment - Renovation of structures are done using sustainable woods and local materials only hence no construction site debris - Pathways left rough and natural and camp not fenced - Very limited clearing of natural vegetation around camp - No planting of non indigenous vegetation around camp Resource Saving Initiatives - Controlled water usage - Reuse of grey water for car washing - Use of biodegradable soaps/shampoos/detergents - Natural enzyme use for water disposal - Use of existing roads and tracks only - No rubbish disposal in area – all is removed - No cutting of trees for wood. - No flood lighting and no outdoor lighting after midnight - Insistence on leaving natural flora around camp - Camp bonfire uses the old wood slats from the camp structure repairs that are constantly ongoing - Wood fuel not used for cooking or light use repaired/old wood for camp fires only - Temporary water hole at base of camp caused during long rains- left natural - No flood lights as the camp uses low energy saving bulbs inside tents and solar lighting on walkways

On: 12 July 2012

Mihingo Lodge is the only Carbon Neutral accredited Lodge in Uganda and runs only on solar power, from solar water heating to solar water pumps to solar electricity and solar fridges and freezers. We offer horseback safaris in Lake Mburo National Park, game walks, night game drives, boat trips, massages and very private rooms with a great view. For more information please have a look at our website www.mihingolodge.com or our Facebook site http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mihingo-Lodge/118810638149910?ref=hl.

On: 11 January 2013

Dear Moira , Jambo and warm greetings from East Africa ! Trust this message finds you well and in the best of spirits. We have cultivated a culture amongst our team members to protect the enviroment hence ensure we pratice the recycle and reuse motto not only in our palce of work but in the field. We have also provide carbage bags in our vehicles to stop clients from throwing any rubbish or items they will not use again. We also support local communties and offer cultural safari programs to various clientele. We continue to support local vilages in their projects by funding or raising funds in collaboration with our partners. Thank you. Taher Adamji.

On: 15 February 2013

Several companies do this: tourism and conservation are becoming closer than ever before in Kenya and many safari companies (expecially the ones who also own lodges and camps) are deeply involved in the protection of land, wildlife and culture. There is an organization, called Ecotourism Kenya (http://www.ecotourismkenya.org) that groups and ranks them. I would like to add a personal opinion: my company - like other companies - believes in the involvement in private conservancies where the focus is on protection of land, wildlife and culture through the involvement of the communities who own the land. Most of the wildlife in Kenya (and in Africa) still is outside the boundaries of national parks and responsible, high quality low impact tourism is now focused on private land. So, in the Masai Mara we are part of Mara North Conservancy ( http://www.maranorth.com) and in Samburu we are part of Northern Rangeland Trust (http://www.nrt-kenya.org) The future of wildlife and the protection of local communities and local culture lies without any doubt with organizations like these, whose projects are really successful. Conservation is expensive, though, and we need everybody's support to help us and be part of these exciting projects. So please choose carefully your destinations and your tour operators! Thank you, Riccardo

On: 15 February 2013

Hi Moira, Thanks for your question. Most tour operator's will have a responsible travel section on their website. Acacia Africa offer varied overland expeditions, small group safaris and voluntours (including, the Masai Mara Conservation and Wildlife Safari) covering Kenya. You'll find the tour operator's responsible tourism policy at acacia-africa.com (click on "about us"), and a list of all the specific environmental and cultural organisations they represent. The company was also nominated for a responsible travel award in relation to Kenya.

On: 15 February 2013

Dear Moira, Thank you very much for your question - what a coincidence, as we have just sent out a letter from Stefano Cheli, the founder and director of Cheli & Peacock about 'How to choose the right safari operator?' - and I think his viewpoint strongly relates to your question. Please click the following link to read the blog and I hope you find it interesting: http://chelipeacock.com/blog/ We always recommend our clients to book their safari through an Africa Specialist, through consultants who travel to Africa frequently and have been to the places and properties they sell. An African Safari can be a hefty investment and therefore we always encourage clients to do extensive research about their destination, their safari operator, the properties they will be staying at etc. It is important to ask how long a company has been established, what is the companies mission, how do they operate, have they been awarded any Responsible Tourism Awards and are their properties eco-rated? Do they have solid examples of their community and conservation work, backed up by facts and figures? Cheli & Peacock is one of the longest established safari operators in Kenya. Starting in 1985 as a small mobile safari company, Cheli & Peacock has grown and expanded over the years to become one of Kenya’s leading safari operators and a frontrunner in Sustainable Tourism. We specialize in personalized high-end safaris and promote off-the-beaten-track destinations that are true wilderness areas; pristine, wild and private! C&P also represents an award winning collection of 8 boutique safari camps and lodges: “The C&P Portfolio”. Each property has its own character & style, yet a common theme: small, unique & elegant properties in extraordinary destinations and with outstanding environmental credentials. To read more about our conservation story, please go to: http://chelipeacock.com/conservation/ http://chelipeacock.com/awards/ I hope this helps and please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any further queries. All the best, Cheli & Peacock Safaris

On: 15 February 2013

Dear Moira, Thank you for your question, well received. Kicheche Camps are situated in local Conservancies; as we believe this is the best way not only for future wildlife protection, but also for the local communities. We provide financial security and support for the communities on whose land they have been created through employment, community projects and lease fees. At Kicheche we have an environment policy known as “the R’s” R ... Reduce, Reuse, Repair and Recycle …. Efficient resource management is critical in remote bush locations. RRRR endeavors to return to nature - as much as possible - that which was taken earlier on in the production chain. All our camps use solar in order to reduce pollutants and carbon footprint. Kicheche Camps have Silver Certification under Ecotourism Kenya, an organization which promotes and certifies responsible tourism practices within the tourism industry. The certification scheme for tourism accommodation facilities is based on environmental and social criteria. This entails encouraging the adoption of best practices in the use of tourism resources, working with local communities and managing waste and emissions. Our mission is to encourage the preservation of the environment whilst improving the welfare of the community through improved health and education facilities. To read more about us, please go to: http://kicheche.com/the-kicheche-community-project Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any further queries. Thank You, the Kicheche Team

On: 15 February 2013

Dear Dennis, Albatros Travel would love to help you organise your safari. We have an amazing East Africa set departure (group travel)tour that departs every week so we could easily work with your travel dates and come in within budget. Email Sian@albatros.co.ke and like I said I'd be happy to help. Look forward to hearing from you. Kind Regards, Sian Albatros Travel

On: 12 June 2013

Dear Sir, Samara Private Game Reserve is a member of ATTA and we received your request this morning. Obviously you are wanting to visit more place than one but I thought I would recommend an excellent tour guide who offers wonderfully personalised tours. His name is Rob Prentis and his contact email address is rob@edgeworldtours.co.za He has references from several UK people including the Lord Mayor of London. Perhaps you would like to contact him and let him know your preferences and he could put a tour together for you. Kind regards, JENNY MCFADYEN Reservations Manager Samara Private Game Reserve

On: 12 June 2013

Dear Dennis, New African Territories represents a group of unique camps and lodges in Kenya and Tanzania. We could not offer an escorted tour as part of your budget but all of our camps and lodges are hosted and we tend to fly directly between each destination so you would be well looked after every step of the way! If it is a variety of destinations you would like to see we would be delighted to work with you and suggest an itinerary within your budget ... please email tamsin@africanterritories.co.ke and we look forward to hopefully hearing from you! Kind regards, New African Territories

On: 12 June 2013

Dear Dennis, New African Territories represents a group of unique camps and lodges in Kenya and Tanzania. We could not offer an escorted tour as part of your budget but all of our camps and lodges are hosted and we tend to fly directly between each destination so you would be well looked after every step of the way! If it is a variety of destinations you would like to see we would be delighted to work with you and suggest an itinerary within your budget ... please email tamsin@africanterritories.co.ke and we look forward to hopefully hearing from you! Kind regards, New African Territories

On: 12 June 2013

Dear Dennis, Cheli & Peacock Safaris is one of the leading and longest established safari operators in East Africa and we would be delighted to design a personalized safari to your needs and expectations. Please get in touch with us via safaris@chelipeacock.co.ke - we look forward to hearing from you! All the best, Cheli & Peacock Safaris www.chelipeacock.com Company Profile: Starting in 1985 as a small mobile safari company, Cheli & Peacock has grown and expanded over the years to become one of Kenya’s leading safari operators. Cheli & Peacock operates up-market, exclusive and bespoke safaris for clients that still want the “real safari” experience. We are completely independent, operating safaris all over East Africa, choosing the best and most unique properties and locations.

On: 12 June 2013

Dear Dennis, I would be delighted to help you plan and book this trip! If you are interested in South Africa, then we have a range of tours that we can book for you, but the one I would suggest would be the 16 day/15 night South Africa Odyssey. You will take in the great highlights South Africa has to offer, such as the world-famous Kruger National Park, the rich cultural heritage and evocative beauty of Swaziland and Zululand, the vibrant coastal cities of Durban and Port Elizabeth, the splendour of the Garden Route and the Cape Winelands, finishing with a leisurely stay in Africa’s most beautiful city, Cape Town. The tour departs on Sundays. If you would like further details, do please drop me an email on tracey.campbell@travelbutlers.com, and I would be delighted to send you a quote for this, and your international flights too if required? I look forward to hopefully hearing from you soon, Regards, Tracey Campbell, Director, Travel Butlers

On: 12 June 2013

Dear Dennis, African Outposts in Johannesburg South Africa have been in operation for the past twenty one years and I have been working in the safari and travel industry for twenty years. Having just returned from East Africa in March, I would be delighted to put an itineary together for you, one that will meet your needs and within your budget of course. Warm regards, Elise Tasker-Kreusch, Senior Travel Consultant and Produce Manager.

On: 12 June 2013