How to Plan a Responsible Trip to Africa

Africa is filled with beautiful tourist destinations and has something for everyone. Some of This pics and articles  will show you the best ways to travel around Africa responsibly.















Africa Travel: Use a Responsible Tour Operator

This is probably the number one recommendation, as your money will be filtering through to all the numerous sub-contractors that your operator will be using. A responsible tour operator will not only be protecting you, but will also be looking out for the service providers that they employ, as well as the environmental well-being of the countries concerned. Often this can result in you paying a little more so that these sub-contractors are being adequately compensated.

Africa is always a buyer's market and the competition for your business is intense, so it is worthwhile for you to do your research into which are the most conscientious operators, and you want to make sure that you are not saving money at the expense of the service providers or the environment.

Africa Travel: Stay in Locally-Owned Hotels

By limiting your accomodation choices to locally owned hotels and lodges and b&b's, you are ensuring that your money is staying in the community and country that you are visiting. Avoid big hotel chains, and spend a little time researching on the internet on websites like Trip Advisor, or even Air BnB. There are many hidden gems and great, unique accomodations can that really make the difference on a trip. Try to find out if the hotel or lodge employs local residents and buys their food on the local economy, too.
Africa Travel: Eat Locally

In cities like Cairo, Marrakech and Cape Town, it is easy to find lots of great restaurants. But when travelling further afield, the temptation to hole-in and eat in the hotel restaurant should be resisted. Don't be afraid to get out into the local markets and food stalls and explore the culinary options available. You will expand your palette, and inevitably you will make new friends while directly supporting the local economy.
Africa Travel: Shop in Local Markets

One of the great experiences in Africa is learning how to bargain - whether buying leather goods in the great Medinah of Fes or bargaining with a wily spice merchant in the Al-Khalili souk in Cairo, or negotiating with a trinket vendor in Soweto - buying local and at the source serves the dual purpose of being an unforgettable cultural experience while cutting out all the middle men and making sure that your money is going to those who need it the most.
   

  Africa Travel: Use Public Transportation
While in some cases it is hard to avoid hiring private vehicles, such as going on safari. If you are visiting big cities on your trip, try to make use of the country's transportation infrastructure. In Morocco and Egypt and South Africa there are extensive rail and bus services between the major urban centers. Using public transportation can save you time and money while minimizing your carbon footprint and bringing you closer to the local population.