ROBIN POPE SAFARIS: MORE THAN JUST ACCOMMODATION

National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Mana Pools National Park has influenced tourism operators in the area to embrace responsible tourism. For Robin Pope Safaris, this has driven them to balance the existence of their operations (lodges and camps) with the survival of local indigenous communities and wildlife. This approach has led to communities benefiting from wildlife and tourism facilities as well as the appreciation of wildlife.

Robin Pope Safaris conducts its business in a way that promotes the environment and wildlife conservation, alongside the individuals who work for them, and the communities directly connected to the conservancies they operate in. The mix of the tourism operations, and the presence of their guests, has the capacity to protect natural wildlife areas, as well as improve local livelihoods. It also reduces poverty through well-thought-out collaboration with specialists in community development, wildlife conservation and responsible tourism.

The safari operator’s other environmental measures include the use of green technology; solar energy systems, natural air-cooling and non-fired bricks. They also conserve water and recycle, re-use, or dispose waste in a responsible matter.

The company founded Zambezi Elephant Fund, an antipoaching program that works with local groups and other partners to conserve and protect wildlife.

They are aware of the interdependence between local communities and the wildlife and natural resources that tourism depends upon. Being in a rural area with no other development opportunities, the company is well positioned to significantly contribute to the improvement of local lives.