Going on a Safari?11 Green & Socially Responsible Travel Tips to Remember

If you’re planning to go on a safari – congratulations! You’re about to go on the trip of a lifetime to a beautiful, wondrous place. As you begin making your plans, it’s important to keep in mind the fragile ecosystems and varied cultures of the country you’re visiting. These tips will help you follow a more eco-friendly and responsible path that will not only enhance your enjoyment, but also ensure that future generations enjoy it just as much.

Gifts should be given as tokens of appreciation, and not charity. Always consult with your tour operator first to ensure the gesture is appropriate.

The first step toward being a responsible and ethical traveler is learning about your destination. There are many books available to help you learn about the different countries, cultures and languages, as well as a wealth of information online. You can also consult with your tour operator, who has vast amounts of experience with the safari destination.

Culture

Learn About Your Destination1

This is a simple, common courtesy. Make sure the people you’d like to photograph can understand you, and take your time if they do not speak English. Refrain from taking photos of people from your safari vehicle without asking. And, above all, always respect their wishes.

2

In some parts of Africa, this is a fascinating cultural difference, as personal space is much closer than in the US. However, excessive public displays of affection between couples are taboo.

4

6 Be Aware Of Different Personal Space Norms

3 Refrain From Making Empty Promises

5 Wear Appropriate Clothing

Green Diamond = 5763 C @ 80%Gold Continent = 142 CVBrown Gazelle = 471 CV

This infographic is produced by Thomson Safaris, a safari tour operator specializing exclusively in Tanzania wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro treks. For over 30 years, they have kept their promise to continuously give back to the communities of Tanzania through the protection and support of wildlife conservation, eco-friendly practices, and the promotion of socially responsible tourism. For more information, visit their website at www.thomsonsafaris.com.

Environment

Shower facilities may not have the plumbing you’re used to in North America, and may drain into the soil. So, it is imperative that you follow this simple rule to do your part in preserving the landscape.

Take only photographs and leave only footprints: do not litter, disturb plant life, or take anything from the wild. If you have any trash, no matter how small, please dispose of it in a trash receptacle or gather it in a plastic bag for later disposal.

Go Beyond The Footprints And Photographs Rule

7Many times, you can recycle packaging, such as cardboard or plastic packaging from batteries, toiletries, etc, in your home country while you cannot do so in your destination country.

8

Many species of flora and fauna are declining in numbers because of destruction of their habitats, while others are declining due to direct exploitation. It is illegal in the US to import ivory, many furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, or plants. For more information on illegal products, contact TRAFFIC.

Many African countries do not yet have recycling programs that will handle “hazardous” materials such as rechargeable batteries. There are many resources for properly disposing of old batteries within North America.

10 Bring Biodegradable Shampoos And Conditioners

9 Keep Any Used Batteries Until You Return Home

11Do Not Purchase Souvenirs With Coral, Endangered Animal Products, Or Plant Life

TRAFFIC (USA) c/o the World Wildlife Fund 1250 24th Street, NW Washington, DC 20037

202-293-4800 tna@wwfus.org www.traffic.org

Give Gifts, When Appropriate, With Guidance From Your Tour Operator

Ask Before Taking Photos Of The Local People

Remove Any Unneeded Packaging From Items You Are Bringing On Safari

In learning about your destination, find out about the cultures of different areas (such as predominant religions, customs, etc). In many African cities and towns, long pants and at least knee-length shorts or longer skirts and dresses are the norm. Dress can generally be more relaxed while in national parks on safari.

If you are approached by someone who asks for a contribution to one of their projects, a gift, or even correspondence from North America, it’s recommended not to say “yes” or even “maybe” just to be polite. Being clear and direct with “No thank you” will suffice.