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  • Best Destinations for Family Safaris in East Africa

    Family travels should be life changing, Interesting, exciting and engaging for all ages as they are designed to spark a passion, inspire a sense of wonder. When these experiences are shared with loved ones, they bring you closer together. Many book family safaris in Africa to different destinations year round during summer and winter but whoever visits Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania get memories that last forever. It’s very rare to find people with the same interest on a family trip yet it’s the order of the day in East Africa.

    However, family tours are fun in places with multiple activities such as wildlife parks, beaches, theme parks, zoos, etc since there is something for everyone. If you traveling with children it’s good to visit destinations with wildlife, sand, natural environment setting, though some destination activities are limited to some age of children for example a child below 15year of age isn’t allowed to trek mountain gorillas in both Uganda or Rwanda since the activity requires hiking in the jungle forest and in the Virunga Bamboo forest. But all family trips to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or volcanoes national park are always wonderful since even children are entertained by different forest walks ,community tours as they wait for their parents to return back from the Gorilla trek.

    Also family holidays are nice if you plan it with balanced room for leisure and adventure since they need to be full of complete fun and relaxation. Most accommodation facilities in different tourist destinations are built with room for family gate ways to cater for groups or guests who feel like sleeping close to each other or in opposite lodge rooms. Facilities are the same like that of the other lodge guests though family arrangements are made on request like special dining table for meals & drinks and even surprises if one of the family members is celebrating a birth day or any achieve. Take a quick look at some of the recommended travel destinations with awesome family adventures that will make everybody happy and relaxed in East Africa.

    Murchison falls Wildlife Park in Uganda
    This is a great place in Uganda full of nice family adventures for all ages and wildlife watching on land is every trip highlight to the Murchison Falls Park. Tourists view the park wildlife starting at 6.30am local time and the morning session always end at 10:30 am a time when they retire for breakfast at their respective lodges. You can also enjoy the evening session which start from 5.00pm – 7.30pm which is always done just after the afternoon 3hrs Boat cruise an activity which take you to the play ground of hippos, crocodiles and buffaloes, thousands of birds, including elephants along and others.

    Taking a five-hour Nile Delta boat trip downstream to the papyrus-filled delta where the Nile empties into Lake Albert is another family adventure which take you to the main birding point for shoebill, some wildlife can be spotted . You need to book early since different tour companies book it often. Other activities include Spot fishing, Chimpanzee tracking, Forest walks, Bird watching walks, Nile Navigation and nature walks. Plan a trip here and discover what makes the might falls unique in Africa.

    Serengeti National Park the wildlife Haven in Tanzania

    The land of endless plains is a home to several wildlife animals and fauna ready to entertain your family through your stay giving you a fantastic lifetime experience full of real leisure and fun. Every day will get a different and magnificent experience in Serengeti seeing the highest wildlife concentration large wildlife on earth. The big five are the park flowers and grass and watching the lions hunt and eat their prey is a very nice experience which I feel everyone should witness. Animals you must view include leopards, cheetah, lions, zebras, buffaloes, etc plus the sweet lovely sunset view. A Balloon ride is another way of making your wildlife viewing exceptional so take it on if you can. The accommodations are excellent with different cuisines for every taste.

    Masai Mara Game reserve
    Kenya a place full of freedom for the old and the young with many foreign investors who created a calm environment for children fun back then as they relocated to the country permanently with their families. Having been on a family trip safari trip in Kenya with two children I just advise you to use right travel experts who will design your trip in lavish way full of relaxation and fun no rush from one place to another. By the way there are adults who are delicate like children so family trips are the best and Kenya is a place to be.

    The country has all you need in the fun massive wildlife experience, birding, exceptional beach holidays etc. With accommodation there are several Masai Mara camps & lodges which are well stocked for families without forgetting the Ranches in Laikipia where parents who travel with children are given time to enjoy a moment together as the ranch guides entertain children with lots of activities like camel riding, swimming, fishing, game drives, among others.

    Queen Elizabeth National park in Uganda
    A family trip in Queen Elizabeth Game Park is unforgettable leaving your family with nice photo captions & stories to tell. A morning game drives starts your day at Queen Elizabeth an activity where you will catch up with all the early risers in Kasenyi area, the elephants, lions, kobs, buffaloes among others. The moment to remember is when you all sail on the Kazinga channel waters on a boat ride to the school of hippos, wildlife birds among others. Chimpanzee tracking at Kyambura gorge is something you don’t have to miss during your stay. Spend a full day adventure in the Ishasha sector of the park and view tree climbing lion up in trees as they play and rest in their lovely homes.

    While here you can just proceed to Bwindi forest in Buhoma and track the Mountain Gorillas a main highlight activity for many guests to Uganda. Enjoy a true African wild setting as you explore the pearl of Africa.

    Conclusion

    Before choosing a family destination flexibility and comfort is an important factor. Request for the best family arrangements from your expert making your trip inspiring and loving as you discover the destination treasures of a destination of your choice.

  • Best 5 National Parks in East Africa

    Best 5 National Parks in East Africa

    East Africa is the beating heart of the world’s safari adventures. Here, untamed wilderness meets timeless traditions. This region, home to some of the planet’s most famous and revered national parks, promises more than just the thrill of wildlife watching—it offers a deeply immersive experience into the rhythms of nature, untouched by modernity. From the vast, open plains of the Serengeti to the lush, misty mountains of Uganda, East Africa’s landscapes are as diverse as the animals that roam them.

    What truly makes East Africa the ultimate safari destination is its remarkable biodiversity. Here, you’ll find the “Big Five”—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—in their natural habitats, often just a few feet away. But beyond these famous icons, East Africa is teeming with cheetahs stalking prey in golden grasses, giraffes grazing on acacia trees, herds of elephants migrating across the savannas, and rare, colorful birds filling the skies. The sheer scale and variety of species make every safari an unpredictable adventure, with surprises waiting around every corner.

    Beyond the wildlife, East Africa’s safari experience is deeply intertwined with local culture. The Maasai people, who have lived harmoniously alongside wildlife for centuries, offer a unique glimpse into an ancient way of life. Their vibrant traditions, clothing, and ceremonies enrich the safari experience, allowing visitors to understand the connection between humanity and nature in ways few other places can offer.

    East Africa is not just a destination—it’s a revelation. It is a place where the grandeur of nature, the excitement of the safari, and the depth of human history converge, offering an experience that is both profoundly moving and wildly exhilarating.

    Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

    Serengeti National Park is the crown jewel of Tanzania’s safari circuit, and for good reason. Spanning over 14,750 square kilometres, this vast ecosystem offers some of the most iconic wildlife viewings in the world. But the Great Migration, one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on Earth, draws adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts from across the globe. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, embark on a perilous journey across the Serengeti’s plains in search of fresh pastures, following the ancient rhythms of life and death.

    The sheer spectacle of the migration is breathtaking. Imagine endless herds stretching as far as the eye can see, moving across the golden savannas in unison. The drama intensifies when the herds reach the Grumeti and Mara Rivers, where they must brave crocodile-infested waters in a life-or-death struggle. For predators, such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, the migration is a time of plenty, and safari-goers are often treated to thrilling hunts and interactions between predator and prey.

    The park is home to the Big Five, and the large lion prides that dominate the Serengeti plains are world-famous. The Seronera Valley in central Serengeti is one of the best places to spot these majestic cats lounging in the grass or stalking their next meal. Though more elusive, Leopards are often seen in the treetops, while elephants roam the park in large, matriarch-led herds.

    Best Time to Visit

    The Serengeti offers year-round wildlife viewing, but timing is key to witnessing the Great Migration. Between June and October, the migration is at its most dramatic, with river crossings and intense predator activity. The calving season from January to March is another excellent time to visit, as thousands of newborn wildebeests and zebras attract predators, creating plenty of action.

    Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

    The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is undoubtedly one of the world’s most famous and revered safari destinations. Renowned for its wide-open plains, dramatic landscapes, and high concentration of wildlife, the Maasai Mara offers some of the most spectacular game-viewing experiences on the planet. What truly sets the Mara apart, however, is its reputation as “Big Cat Country.” Lions, cheetahs, and leopards thrive here, providing safari-goers with unforgettable sightings and thrilling predator-prey interactions.

    The Maasai Mara forms part of the greater Serengeti ecosystem, sharing its southern border with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. As such, it is an integral part of the Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles make their way from the Serengeti to the Mara every year, dramatically crossing the Mara River. These river crossings, typically between July and October, are among the most famous wildlife spectacles in the world, with crocodiles lurking in the waters and big cats waiting on the other side.

    The reserve is a year-round destination where wildlife roams freely. The rolling grasslands are the perfect hunting grounds for lion prides, often seen lounging in the shade or stalking their prey. The Mara’s lions are particularly famous for their size and strength, and encountering a pride on the hunt is a heart-pounding experience that brings the drama of the African wilderness to life.

    Cheetahs are also a highlight in the Mara. Their incredible speed and grace make them a favorite among safari-goers, and the open savannas provide ideal terrain for witnessing their lightning-fast chases. The elusive leopard, while more challenging to spot, can often be found resting in trees or prowling in the quieter areas of the reserve.

    A visit to the Maasai Mara is incomplete without encountering the people. The Maasai are one of Kenya’s most iconic indigenous groups, known for their vibrant red shukas (clothing), intricate beadwork, and semi-nomadic lifestyle. Many safari lodges and camps offer cultural visits to Maasai villages, where travellers can learn about their age-old traditions, cattle-herding practices, and deep connection to the land and wildlife.

    Best Time to Visit

    The Maasai Mara is a year-round destination, but the best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from July to October. This is when the Great Migration is in full swing, and the grass is short, making it easier to spot animals. The period from December to February is also ideal for fewer crowds and excellent game viewing.

    Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

    Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers one of the planet’s most unique and profound wildlife experiences—mountain gorilla safaris. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient rain forest is home to nearly half of the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas, making it a top destination for travellers seeking a close encounter with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

    The forest itself is a marvel of biodiversity. Covering over 320 square kilometres of dense, impenetrable jungle, it is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, with over 120 species of mammals, 350 bird species, and a staggering array of butterflies and plants. However, the opportunity to track and spend time with mountain gorillas makes Bwindi a once-in-a-lifetime destination. The forest’s thick vegetation, steep ridges, and narrow valleys create an adventurous and challenging landscape that lives up to its name—Bwindi, meaning “impenetrable.”

    Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is both a physical and emotional journey. After an early morning briefing, small groups of trekkers, led by experienced guides and trackers, set off into the forest to find one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorillas, as these animals are constantly on the move. The hike is an adventure, traversing thick jungle, muddy paths, and steep inclines, but the reward at the end is unparalleled: coming face to face with a family of mountain gorillas.

    Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural environment is a profoundly moving experience. Watching a silverback, the group’s dominant male, command his family with quiet authority or seeing young gorillas playfully tumbling in the underbrush offers a rare glimpse into their complex social dynamics. The close bond between the gorillas and the peacefulness of their forest home is a humbling reminder of the importance of conservation.

    Bwindi’s gorilla trekking experience is tightly regulated to ensure minimal impact on the animals and their habitat. Only a limited number of trekking permits are issued daily, and groups are restricted to just one hour with the gorillas to minimize animal stress. These strict measures are part of the broader conservation efforts that have helped increase the mountain gorilla population in recent years, a true conservation success story.

    Birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise, as the forest is home to several Albertine Rift endemic species, including the African green broadbill and the short-tailed warbler. While on a gorilla safari in Bwindi, visitors can also explore the local Batwa culture, one of the oldest indigenous groups in Africa. The Batwa pygmies lived as hunter-gatherers in Bwindi’s forest for centuries, and today, cultural visits allow travellers to learn about their traditional way of life, customs, and the challenges they face as modern conservation efforts reshape their relationship with the land.

    Best Time to Visit

    The best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when the forest is less muddy and the trekking paths are more manageable. However, Bwindi can be visited year-round, as the rainforest climate means there is always the chance of rain, even in the dry season.

    Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

    Tarangire National Park is often overshadowed by its famous neighbours, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Still, those who visit this lesser-known gem in northern Tanzania are rewarded with an authentic and uncrowded safari experience. Spanning around 2,850 square kilometres, Tarangire is defined by its diverse landscape of acacia woodlands, baobab-studded plains, and riverine habitats, which provide a home to a wide variety of wildlife. However, the park’s immense elephant herds make it truly special—Tarangire boasts one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania.

    From June to October, Tarangire transforms into an elephant sanctuary during the dry season. As water sources dwindle across the region, wildlife is drawn to the Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline, where large herds of elephants—sometimes numbering in the hundreds—can be seen drinking, bathing, and foraging. Observing these majestic creatures in such numbers is a breathtaking experience, especially when set against the dramatic backdrop of ancient baobab trees, which are iconic features of the park.

    Beyond elephants, Tarangire is a haven for other wildlife. The park supports many species, including buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and a healthy population of big cats, such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Tarangire is also home to Tanzania’s largest African wild dog population, among the most endangered carnivores in Africa. It is a rare and thrilling encounter for those fortunate enough to spot these elusive animals.

    Another unique aspect of Tarangire is its extraordinary birdlife. With over 550 species recorded, Tarangire offers some of the best birding opportunities in East Africa. During the wet season, migratory birds flock to the park, adding even more vibrancy to its rich avian diversity.

    Unlike the more famous parks in Tanzania, Tarangire offers a more intimate and relaxed safari experience with fewer crowds and vehicles. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without the hustle and bustle of busier safari circuits. The park’s smaller camps and lodges also contribute to this sense of exclusivity, allowing for a more personalised and serene safari adventure.

    Best Time to Visit

    The dry season from June to October is the best time to visit Tarangire, as wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River, making it easier to spot large concentrations of animals, especially elephants. The wet season from November to May brings lush greenery and migratory birds, though wildlife disperses across the park, making animals slightly more challenging to find.

    For those seeking a safari experience that combines breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary elephant encounters, and rich biodiversity, Tarangire National Park is a hidden treasure that should not be overlooked. It offers a quieter, more secluded side of Tanzania’s wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

    Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

    The popular Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, is where the might of nature is on full display. Named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge and plunges 43 meters into a frothing pool below, this park offers visitors a combination of awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant wildlife. It is one of the most diverse safari destinations in East Africa, blending powerful natural forces with classic game-viewing opportunities.

    The park’s centrepiece is the Nile River, which cuts through the savanna and creates unique ecosystems that sustain a wide range of wildlife. Boat cruises along the river are among the most popular ways to experience the park, offering a different perspective on the wildlife. As you drift along the Nile’s calm waters, you’ll see hippos bobbing in the water, crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks, and a host of birds, including African fish eagles, goliath herons, and kingfishers.

    The park’s vast savannas, woodlands, and riverine forests are home to an impressive array of species, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and lions. The open plains north of the river are particularly rich in wildlife, with large herds of Uganda kobs, hartbeests, and oribis grazing in the grasslands, often with predators like lions and leopards not far behind. Rothschild’s giraffes, one of the most endangered giraffe subspecies, are especially common here, offering safari-goers plentiful opportunities to observe these gentle giants up close.

    In the southern part of the park, Budongo Forest offers guided chimpanzee tracking experiences. Visitors can walk through the dense tropical forest to observe these intelligent primates in their natural environment. Budongo is one of Uganda’s most important rainforests and is home to various other primates, including red-tailed and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

    Another of the highlights of any visit to Murchison Falls is the opportunity to witness the raw power of the falls themselves. A short hike to the top of the falls offers a thrilling experience as you stand just a few meters from where the world’s longest river is squeezed through a gap only seven meters wide before it crashes down into the Devil’s Cauldron below. The thunderous roar and spray of the water create a dramatic and unforgettable atmosphere, with rainbows often dancing in the mist.

    Best Time to Visit

    The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September when wildlife is more easily spotted as animals gather around water sources. Boat trips on the Nile are also more comfortable during this time. The park can be visited year-round, but the wet seasons (March to May and October to November) can make some dirt roads impassable.

    Conclusion

    An East African safari is a transformative journey through some of Earth’s most untouched and diverse landscapes. From the vast savannas teeming with wildlife to the misty mountains where endangered species thrive, East Africa offers an immersive experience that engages all the senses.

    Each destination provides a unique flavor of adventure. Whether captivated by the sheer scale of animal migrations, enthralled by the power of natural wonders, or seeking intimate encounters with rare wildlife, the region delivers moments of awe and connection with nature that are difficult to find elsewhere.

    Your safari adventure in East Africa promises to be unforgettable. You will leave with a deep appreciation for the majesty of the natural world and the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.

  • Be Bold For Change with Visit.Org

    Be Bold For Change with Visit.Org

    International Women’s Day began in 1911, three years after 15,000 women in New York took to the streets and demanded equal wages, shorter working days and the right to vote. Since then, women across the globe have persevered to be seen as equals in the workforce and to be treated with respect in all social, economic, cultural and political aspects of life. There are numerous ways you can be bold for change this year (the IWD website has many actions to chose from here); but before you take off work to join a march or write a petition, start with planning a trip that will change a woman’s life. You can enact real change in real women’s lives when you travel with our partner Visit.Org.

    Visit.org has 500 immersive and impactful travel experiences in 63 countries hosted by do-good organizations. Many of these partners are benefiting and empowering women. By taking a tour or going on a Visit.Org trip, you are directly impacting underprivileged women through the organization’s immersive travel experiences. Here are a few examples:

    Asia Arts

    If you enjoy making arts and crafts, the Artisans Angkor in Cambodia is a great place to spend a morning. Learn how to make a colorful scarf on traditional looms, sculpt a piece of wood, make a bracelet, or even a silk painting. The $75 cost for this experience not only supports local artisans, it also funds education and training programs in the community.

    Children Art

    This next excursion in Chile has empowerment sown right. The Mapuche Discovery Tour, organized by the Fundación Chol Chol, gives visitors the chance to learn about the Mapuche people of Araucania through making textiles and pottery from sustainable materials. After learning a few new skills, guests are invited to a traditional Ruka hut for an organic family meal. Funds raised from this experience go toward local women’s programs and fair trade production.

    Peru Art

    Get your weave on in Peru with CTTC and the Peru Art Tour. Experience the Cusco weaving tradition and learn how to weave on a traditional backstrap loom while supporting Andean weavers and fair trade practices. Knit a bag for your cellphone or spare change or braid yourself a stylish honda (a traditional Andean sling made of llama wool). Funds from the tour is invested in educating young weavers in the community and ensuring fair trade practices so that local weavers have a stable source of income.

    The opportunities to empower women everywhere can be found in nearly every tour and experience offered by Visit.Org, but travelers can especially help empower vulnerable women in Colombia with the Cundinamarca Community Tour. Organized by the Fundación Soy Social, this two-day tour introduces travelers to the incredible and talented women of Vereda la Merced and Villapinzón. Learn how to weave, milk cows, tend to potatoes in the garden, make cheese, and prepare traditional dishes. (Our mouths are watering over here.) Revenue from this experience is invested in improving productivity and sustainability for rural women and their children in the municipality of Villapinzón through education and financial support.

    If these experiences sound like a great way to support amazing women around the world, you’ll love Visit.Org’s many other tours and activities.

  • 4 Reasons Why You Should Stay at Nautilus Hotel in Lanzarote

    4 Reasons Why You Should Stay at Nautilus Hotel in Lanzarote

    1. The Personal Touch:

    The Hotel Nautilus is a customer satisfaction leader in Lanzarote, which is a guarantee of a great vacation before you even leave home.

    2. A Commitment To Responsible Tourism:

    Since making its pledge to sustainability, the hotel has made a clear commitment to accessible tourism that enables their guests, regardless of age, physical and circumstantial limitations, to enjoy their vacation. Technical aides are available to visitors, including a hydraulic chair lift in the pool so that people with reduced mobility can enter and enjoy the weather as well. This is the first of its kind installed in the Canary Islands.

    3. The Decor:

    This beautiful hotel is decorated with original works of art belonging to the hotel’s private collection, allowing guests to enjoy fine works during their holidays, making them feel more at home.

    4. Major Goals:

    The next step for this hotel is to be focused on self-sufficiency by 2016, while 30 percent of the energy used by the Nautilus Lanzarote is currently clean. Moving forward in an environment like Lanzarote can be quite a challenge.

  • Climate justice is a Critical Issue for the Tourism Industry

    Each year, temperature records are broken and extreme weather events strike. July 22, 2024 now marks the hottest day on record, surpassing the previous heat records set in 2023.

    Extreme weather events are impacting many tourism hotspots, such as the recent Jasper wildfire, the April 2024 flooding of Dubai airport and the 2023 Maui wildfires. Yet tourism continues to grow, and travel levels are expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels shortly.

    Climate change is an inseparable aspect of modern tourism. On the one hand, the key components of tourism — transportation, aviation in particular, as well as accommodation — are major contributors to carbon emissions. Aviation emissions alone account for an estimated eight to 10 per cent of overall greenhouse gas emissions.

    But, in turn, climate change also poses increasing and severe risks to tourism businesses. Beach holidays are threatened by rising sea levels, ski resorts can no longer depend on snowfall and some tourism businesses risk becoming uninsurable.

    Burned forest on the edge of Jasper, Alberta, on August 16, 2024. Wildfire caused evacuations and widespread damage in the National Park and Jasper townsite. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Amber Bracken

    Until recently, the response to the climate crisis has focused largely on climate action. This includes addressing the impacts of carbon emissions through mitigation (using technologies to prevent emissions) and adaptation (adjusting to climate change) in impacted areas.

    However, our new report from The Travel Foundation argues the tourism industry needs to consider climate justice before undertaking any climate actions. We conducted in-depth interviews with a wide range of tourism experts to determine how the industry can play a role in a just transition.

    We’re running our annual survey to find out what you think of our content

    Climate justice

    The tourism industry’s engagement with climate justice is well overdue. The concept of climate justice first gained international recognition in 2000 when the first climate justice summit was held alongside COP 6 at the Hague.

    Climate justice is an inclusive approach to climate action that centres the voices and needs of communities most impacted by climate change. Indigenous, Black and other marginalized communities are particularly vulnerable to the severe impacts of climate change.

    As, Daniela Subtil, the network co-ordinator for Stay Grounded, a network of organizations promoting alternatives to aviation to address climate change, said:

    “The impacts of the climate crisis that aviation contributes to are being felt… by marginalised, historically and systematically marginalised peoples. Yet there is a very tiny percentage of the world’s population flying.”

    Climate justice recognizes that these communities often lack the resources needed to deal with the impacts of climate extremes. Despite contributing the least to the climate crisis, both historically and in the present, many of these communities — particularly across the Global South — are bearing the brunt of its consequences.

    Our report highlights that low-income countries account for less than one per cent of travel and tourism emissions, but will suffer the most from climate change. Tourism emissions are disproportionately caused by a small percentage of the population that are primarily in the Global North.

    A 2020 study, for instance, found that a small group of “super-emitters” — just one per cent of the population — were responsible for half of aviation’s carbon emissions in 2018.

    A better approach to travel

    Demands for climate justice are just as relevant to travellers as they are to the tourism industry. Whether it’s the need to better prepare for climate disasters at destinations or the potential increase in levies that the industry will pass onto consumers, travellers are not shielded from the effects of climate change.

    Our report encourages a responsible approach to travel planning that urges travellers to take into account not only their carbon footprints, but also their broader impact on social justice.

    This begins with recognizing the communities and environments impacted by tourists’ travel choices. Tourists should be aware that their presence may not be welcomed in communities dealing with climate change-related disasters.

    A climate justice approach also normalizes the idea that tourism businesses can act as first responders in climate emergencies, bringing their skills and resources into action.

    Climate justice tourism

    There are already existing examples of tourism that better aligns with the principles of climate justice. Often it is Indigenous communities leading the way, from Traditional Owner communities in Australia to Indian Country in the United States.

    For instance, Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel in Australia educates about the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage site, the impacts it faces from climate change and the Traditional Owners connected to the site.

    Canada is also fortunate to be home to some unique examples of this type of tourism in action, including the Haida Gwaii archipelago off of the coast of British Columbia, which has always been home to the Haida Nation.

    Given the islands’ distinctive natural and cultural beauties, Haida Gwaii has become a popular tourist destination. In an attempt to assert control over tourism to their homelands and ensure visitors are following a path of responsible tourism, the citizens of Haida Gwaii have initiated the Haida Gwaii Pledge.

    The pledge asks tourists to understand the responsibility of care that Haida have for their place and people. It invites visitors to join them in this care and be respectful guests during their visit. This is one example of transforming tourism relations for justice. It will become increasingly needed as climate change impacts hit harder and harder.

    Ultimately, climate justice is a critical issue for all of us. Recent events prompt us all to commit to climate action with concern for more just outcomes. This may also transform tourism for the better.

    Jeremy Smith, a climate specialist for The Travel Foundation, co-authored this article.

  • Palestinian ‘justice tourism’ in East Jerusalem turns Israeli occupation into exhibition

    Palestinian ‘justice tourism’ in East Jerusalem turns Israeli occupation into exhibition

    Tourism in Jerusalem is intertwined with Israel’s occupation. However, while Israel’s Ministry of Tourism officially governs Jerusalem’s tourism industry, there’s a new, rising movement of alternative tourism initiated by Palestinian activists and guides who aim to counter the Israeli perspective. This type of tourism is known as justice tourism, political tourism, or alternative tourism.

    Osama Resheq, a legal supervisor at Al-Quds University and a proponent of alternative tourism, explains the goal of the movement is to “turn the Israeli occupation into an exhibition”. Since the tourism sector in Israel is heavily regulated and only presents one side of the conflict, it is up to Palestinians in Jerusalem to share their own perspective and narrative.

    Osama’s tours reflect his experience as a Palestinian living under occupation. “I show the colonial features of Jerusalem and how Israel restricts our movement,” he added.

    “In 1972, East Jerusalem – mainly Palestinian – had 34 hotels while West Jerusalem – mainly Israeli – had 23. Over time, the division of hotels changed. Now East Jerusalem only has 133 rooms, compared with over 10,000 in West Jerusalem”

    The attendees of Osama’s tours are often international academics or activists that are interested to know more about Palestine.

    The Israeli occupation controls the tourism sector in Jerusalem. Foreign tourists typically arrive through Israeli-run agencies that direct them to Israeli-owned hotels and markets.

    In 1972, East Jerusalem – mainly Palestinian – had 34 hotels while West Jerusalem – mainly Israeli – had 23. Over time, the division of hotels changed. Now East Jerusalem only has 133 rooms, compared with over 10,000 in West Jerusalem.

    The Israeli Ministry of Tourism’s website provides a comprehensive list of over 6,800 certified tourist guides, including both Israelis and Palestinians. To obtain certification, these guides are required to undergo a two-year study of Jerusalem’s history at Israeli universities and institutes.

    Abdullah Salameh is among these certified guides. Abdullah told The New Arab that the majority of tours are typically organised by Israeli tour operators. “Tourists who come from Israeli agencies have a pre-arranged plan and the tour route cannot be altered by the guide,” Abdullah explained.

    British graffiti artist Banksy’s ‘Walled Off Hotel’ in Bethlehem encourages tourists to confront Israel’s occupation [Getty Images]

    As a result, Abdullah often partners with Palestinian tour operators to highlight Christian sites in Jerusalem. This is particularly important to him as a Christian with in-depth knowledge of Christianity and its historical significance in the city.

    According to Abdullah, Israeli tourism agencies are required to hire Palestinian tourist guides for cities under the control of the Palestinian Authority, such as Bethlehem, which is a top destination for Christian tourists.

    However, these Palestinian guides who offer alternative tourism experiences are not officially certified and may face scrutiny and apprehension by Israeli police. To avoid any issues, they often claim to be spending time with friends without accepting payment for their services.

    Osama argues that the Israeli schools where the certified tourist guides receive education follow curriculums that present a biased, one-sided narrative, often centred around biblical content. He also points out that alternative tourist guides are remunerated with lower wages compared to their certified counterparts, “but this doesn’t matter, because our goal is to raise awareness about the Palestinian cause, not anything else.”

    One of the leading organisations of alternative tourism in Jerusalem is Grass Roots in Jerusalem. Administrative and Financial Manager Yazan Jawad says the organisation aims to give an accurate narrative about the history of Jerusalem and Israel’s occupation.

    “Besides our political tours of Jerusalem, we provide maps and infographics about the history of Jerusalem as an Arab city, and how Israel attempts to erase this. Even if you ask Google to lead you downtown in Jerusalem, they will take you to Jaffa Street in West Jerusalem, not East Jerusalem’s Old City – the real centre.”

    “As Palestinian refugees who are unable to go to our homeland, when we see people going, it feels like a stab in the back, as we cannot return – out of respect for our wishes, we do not endorse tourism to Palestine or in any settler-colonial case.”https://t.co/26I4MmyzSE

    — Tourism Geographies (@TourismJournal) August 15, 2023

    In November 2018, Human Rights Watch reported on the violations of Airbnb and Booking.com, popular housing and hotel reservation websites. They were found to list apartments located in illegal Israeli settlements.

    “The business activity that Airbnb and Booking.com conduct helps make West Bank settlements more profitable and therefore sustainable, thus facilitating Israel’s unlawful transfer of its citizens to the settlements,” the report stated.

    In 2018, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) released a report highlighting tourism-related activities “ensure the sustainability of residential settlement communities” and “contribute to the profitability of the settlements”.

    According to Amnesty, Israel’s strategy of establishing a tourism industry centred on settlements coincides with a surge in visitor numbers experienced by the country. In 2018, Israel recorded a historic total of over four million visitors.

    “Israel has constructed many of its settlements close to archaeological sites to make the link between the modern State of Israel and its Jewish history explicit. At the same time, Israel downplays or ignores the significance of non-Jewish periods at archaeological and historic sites,” Amnesty reported.

    In 2021, the Lifta Boutique Hotel was inaugurated in the Palestinian village of Lifta, situated in Jerusalem. The village had its Palestinian presence erasure in the 1948 Nakba when the town was ethnically cleansed. However, On the hotel’s website, they described the location as “an abandoned village”.

    Despite the rising of alternative tourism in Jerusalem as pro-Palestinian tourism, it still has many challenges. “We’re just individuals who are working against the system. We aim to expose the occupation for what it is,” Osama explained.

    Yet Osama remains optimistic that the tours he and his colleagues can create a positive change among visitors: “The more tours we make, the more people are informed. We hope they will become ambassadors for the Palestinian cause when they return home.”

    Abeer Ayyoub is a freelance journalist based in Amman

    Source: The New Arab

  • Top 5 Places to See Elephants in Africa

    Top 5 Places to See Elephants in Africa

    Watching elephants in their natural surroundings is always a thrill, so we have put together five of the best places to get fabulous pachyderm experiences in Africa.

    1. Safari Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve, South Africa

    This beautiful lodge is located on the 7,200ha Amakhala Game Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape and is adjacent to the famed Addo Elephant National Park – widely regarded as the country’s premier destination for elephant viewing. Game drives are taken on both the Amakhala reserve and in Addo. The lodge is Fair Trade Tourism certified.

    2. Mombo Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana

    Nicknamed “The Place of Plenty”, Wilderness Safaris’s Mombo Camp is located on a private concession on the renowned Chief’s Island, deep in the heart of the Okavango Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve. This is one of the best spots in Africa from which to view wild elephants at close quarters!

    Mombo Camp is recognised by Fair Trade Tourism through its partnership with Botswana’s Ecotourism Certification programme.

    3. Motswari Private Game Reserve, Timbavati

    Part of the Greater Kruger National Park, the Timbavati is teeming with wildlife, with huge herds of elephant regularly moving through the reserve. Fair Trade Tourism certified Motswari Private Game Reserve is located in the heart of the Timbavati and elephants often pay the lodge a visit to drink from the swimming pool!

    4. Oliver’s Camp, Tanzania

    Deep in the southern reaches of Tarangire National Park and with easy access to the Silale Swamps, Oliver’s Camp is an echo of the early days of African safaris. Part of the Asilia Africa group, this camp is recognised by Fair Trade Tourism through its partnership with Responsible Tourism Tanzania.

    5. Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge, Caprivi Strip, Namibia

    Nkasa Lupala tented lodge is built on the banks of one of the many channels of the Kwando-Linyanti river system in the Caprivi region of Namibia. This unique wetland paradise is part of Nkasa Lupala National Park and the lodge itself is recognised by Fair Trade Tourism through its partnership with Eco Awards Namibia.

    Elephants regularly visit the lodge.

  • Eat Well and Sleep Better in Hondarribia

    Eat Well and Sleep Better in Hondarribia

    The Rio Bidasoa is a small hotel in Hondarribia ideal for those suffering from sensitive stomachs and allergies. Their ability to meet these needs is based on the gastronomical approach of their restaurant, Sugarri. This magnificent restaurant is run by Bixente Muñoz, a great chef always on the lookout for new sensations, innovative spins on traditional menu items earning a number of prizes in multiple pincho competitions. Bixente has been recognised in several international publications, including The New York Times.

    The hotel boasts spacious, hypoallergenic rooms, decorated in a minimalist style. If you suffer from allergies, the Hotel Rio Bidasoa offers special “Green” rooms. The system implemented in “Green Rooms” includes:

    • A selection of rooms that satisfy the appropriate conditions needed to prevent the presence of allergens.
    • The Regular Removal of dead skin cells, dust mites, mould spores, animal dander and other allergens.
    • Appropriate settings for temperature and humidity, as well as other environmental conditions.
    • A reduced number of surfaces and objects that might collect dust.
    • Treatment of surfaces and objects with vacuum cleaners with HEPA filtres
    • The use of sheets, pillowcases, comforters and other objects with small pore sizes and suitable materials to avoid the presence of allergens.
    • The development of a guide to ideal hygienic practices to control allergens while cleaning the room, the sheets, pillowcases and comforters.
    • Ventilation of the rooms.
    • Control over the presence of animals.
    • Input pollen control.

    This dual sensitivity to gastronomical and allergy sensitivities help make this location stand out as an authentic example of a responsible hotel.

  • Iceland: A Popular Wilderness Destination

    Iceland: A Popular Wilderness Destination

    Today we bring you our most popular wilderness destination…ICELAND.

    Below is an example of our 5 day Iceland Adventure.

    Day 1: Drive directly to Reykjavík (45 min drive). Possibility of stopping in Blue Lagoon before going to Reykjavik. Blue Lagoon is located about 20 min away from the airport.

    Day 2: Start your Iceland adventures with a drive up to the magnificent region of Snæfellsnes.
    Snæfellsnes is a unique area with a variety of geological interests such as lava fields, volcanoes, glacier, mineral springs, beautifully formed rocks, yellow and black sand beaches as well as caves and very interesting bird colonies
    The Snæfellsjökull glacier is one of the most picturesque mountains in Iceland, rising up 1450 meters from the middle of the Snæfellsnes peninsula this famous volcano is clearly visible more then 100 km away

    Day 3: Today we’ll drive to ION hotel via Húsafell.
    Head to Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull “The Long Glacier”.
    Board a special 8wheel drive monster truck that will take you to the glacier tunnel opening.
    Ice Tunnel (40-50 min tour)
    This three in one tour will enable you to explore: 1. around, 2. on and 3. within, the giant, 953sq/km glacier.You’ll journey to one of the world’s great wildernesses, perhaps the closest thing to the Ice Age.

    Day 4: Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can enjoy a truly unique viewpoint by walking behind the curtain of thundering water. This can be tricky in winter time if it’s icy outside- nevertheless the waterfall is very picturesque and worth the stop.
    You’ll also visit the nearby Skógafoss waterfall with its seductive scenery and legend of hidden gold. Continue along Iceland’s South Coast reveals majestic mountains and a masterpiece of volcanic scenery with the highly active Hekla volcano looming in the clouds along with the glistening Eyjafjalljökull, erupted in 2010 and Mýrdalsjökull glacier which conceals the fiery secrets of Katla volcano underneath

    Day 5: Of all the spectacular nature that resides in Iceland there are three ‘must-see’ highlights that are easily experienced in one day. Thingvellir National Park tremendous geological interest. A short ride across fertile farmlands in the south reveal the breathtaking Gullfoss ‘Golden’ Waterfalls where traversing a narrow path (UNESCO) is Iceland’s greatest historical site and a place of provides close-up views of the thundering waterfall below. Only a few minutes away is the Geysir geothermal area where hot springs are in abundance, geysers explode and pools of mud bubble.

  • A journey to Success: Transfrontier Parks and Communities

    A journey to Success: Transfrontier Parks and Communities

    Southern Africa has often been at the forefront of conservation initiatives on the African continent. The region’s experience in game capture, managed game parks and translocating elephants being a few examples of where it has set standards.

    Over the past couple decades it’s been doing the same in cross-border conservation initiatives, such as establishing Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCA). These are wilderness areas which have no political boundaries, entities created to encourage natural game migration across ecosystems that are allowed to flourish.

    Along with TFCA comes a group with its own particular focus – balancing community needs with those of nature and the over-used but all-important buzzword, ‘sustainable tourism’ (now known as ‘Better Tourism’).

    This is Transfrontier Parks Destinations (TFPD), run by co-founder Glynn O’Leary, who finds tourism locations where development is needed most – in or adjacent to Transfrontier Conservation Areas – and there revitalises and operates community-owned hospitality facilities, which essentially translates into lodges.

    The TFPD then assists in commercializing these community assets, such as !Xaus Lodge – exactly 91 dunes west off the Auob River road in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (linking South Africa and Botswana), on ancestral land owned by the ‡Khomani San and Mier communities. Sometimes it may involve a national park, or a provincial tourism authority; whoever is involved, it’s all about partnership.

    !Xaus Lodge has 12 individual chalets, each with its own deck overlooking a vast saltpan and waterhole fed with fresh water. Watching gemsbok traipse across the pan in energy-saving desert fashion is a wilderness treat, as is exploring the dunes with the resident ‡Khomani San bushmen.

    At over 3,5 million hectares, the park is almost twice the size of the Kruger National Park, and is home to the famous black-maned lion.

    An area that has more socio-economic need, given its history of civil war, social and political upheaval and associated rural poverty, is the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP). Fifteen years ago it was proclaimed with the signing of an international treaty involving Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe, thereby connecting the Kruger Park, Zimbabwe’s Ghonarezou Game Reserve and Mozambique’s Parque Nacional do Limpopo, a conservation area of 35 000km².

    All three countries’ borders meet at Crooks Corner, at the lush and wooded confluence of the Limpopo and Luvuvhu rivers. This is the northernmost Pafuri section of the Kruger National Park, a location of great elephant herds, historical legend and crocodiles. It has tourism, and the opportunity for responsible development, written all over the landscape.

    Travellers who support the increasingly popular model of ‘Better Tourism’ can access this land rich in stories through Awelani Lodge, situated near the Pafuri Gate entrance to the Kruger. The lodge offers visitors the opportunity to walk or mountain bike through the wooded conservancy, a lush landscape dominated by significant woodland, sandstone outcrops and over 700 species of birds.

    Over the border in the Mozambique section of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, home to the Big 5, the unfenced Machampane Wilderness Camp offers full-service accommodation and guided wilderness walking trails, especially significant in an area where jobs are almost unheard of, and bush skills abound.

    At 2200m, Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge in the Maluti Drakensberg TFCA is far south of what is known as ‘the bush’, and the highest lodge in South Africa’s statuesque northern Drakensberg remote mountain range. As with the other TFPD operations, the lodge provides essential employment opportunities and secondary economic activity that has proven to impact positively on the local economy.

    The lodge provides access to Sentinel Peak and the Maloti Drakensberg that draws backpackers, hikers and climbers, probably viewing the endangered bearded vulture and the extraordinary mountain flora, like the sewejaartjie, that has adapted to grow at high altitudes.

    Each TFPD managed lodge is a holistic entity, providing essential work and local economic activity in an area of great natural beauty.

    Just recently O’Leary spoke of a meeting involving serious tourism players where he highlighted the following: “What we see is that these community-owned tourism activities create strong rural development, and that ‘Better Tourism’ is helping create great places to live”.