Ged’s Update known parks teeming with wildlife but without the crowds. Educate Yourself, Empower Others Responsible tourism starts with informed choices. Research tour operators and agents that are committed to sustainable practices. Look for certifications like those offered by Ecotourism Kenya. Be curious, ask questions about their environmental impact and their support for local communities. Beyond the Tourist Dollar While responsible tourism brings economic benefits, direct support for conservation efforts can make a real difference. Consider donating to reputable wildlife organizations working in the region. Conservation tourism is on the incline, this is where travellers are putting their support into projects that they can be directly involved with at the grassroots level, making it so much more meaningful.
Credit: Nicky Souness
The blame isn’t solely on tourists. Unscrupulous tour operators prioritizing profit over conservation and a lack of government oversight exacerbate the problem. One of our contacts argues there’s “no such thing as non-consumptive tourism.” Every tourist leaves a footprint, from water usage to carbon emissions. So, what is the responsible traveller to do? Here’s where the concept of ‘low season travel’ becomes particularly relevant. The Allure of the Low Season Peak season brings crowds, pushing the very things we cherish about these destinations to the brink. But what if there was another way? Enter the often-overlooked shoulder seasons and even the low season itself. Wildlife is still abundant, the landscapes are less crowded, and the experience can be far more intimate. Avoiding the Circus: Alternatives Await Sure, the migration might be a draw, but there’s so much more to discover in East Africa. Consider the private conservancies bordering the national parks. Often managed with stricter ecological principles, they offer exceptional wildlife viewing with qualified guides and fewer vehicles. Alternatively, explore lesser-
Photographer unknown
A Future Where Conservation and Tourism Thrive There’s no easy solution, but there is hope. One of our contacts highlights the potential for improved collaboration. Governments, park authorities, and the tourism industry must work together to implement stricter regulations, promote responsible tourism practices, and ensure park fees are reinvested into conservation. The passionate voices in our correspondent’s message remind us that this is not just about protecting wildlife, but about the future of responsible tourism itself. Let’s ensure that future generations can experience the magic of these wilderness areas and not a shadow of their former glory. Travel low season, choose wisely, and be an advocate for change. Together, we can ensure that Africa’s incredible wildlife and tourism not only survive but thrive.
Low Season Traveller
If you are seeking genuiniely responsible operators for your low season African safari, you may wish to try:
14
Safarious - Warren Pearson warren@safarious.com - www.safarious.com Anderson Expeditions - Richard Anderson richard@andersonexpeditions.com - www.andersonexpeditions.com Cape to Nile Global Safaris - Caitlin Carter caitlin@capetonile.com - www.capetonile.com Photographer unknown Photographer unknown (Right)
