Sustainable safari in Tanzania: practical tips for meaningful travel
How can you make your Tanzania safari a more responsible safari? Traveling is an activity that impacts our planet. And no matter what we do, we cannot minimize that impact without you. You can contribute before and during your trip. How? Here are some practical tips to make your safari more sustainable and greener.
Economical responsibility
Local arts and crafts
Help us to support Tanzanian businesses by buying souvenirs from local artisans. It’s not only more affordable than in a commercial shopping center, but knowing the person who created it adds an extra valuable memory. Moreover, it is the ideal opportunity to test your negotiation skills!
Local restaurant
An all-inclusive beach holiday sounds fabulous, but nothing beats a traditional meal in a local restaurant. Here, you can have a taste of the local atmosphere and interact with the villagers.
Locally run accommodations
Choose accommodations run by locals and private owners, avoiding big hotels (chains) that are often owned by Western investors. Small, local hotels and guesthouses are much more sustainable because they are built and decorated with local materials.
Small-scale does not rule out luxury. The intimate tented camps and lodges often offer just as much comfort as a large hotel, yet with more attention to detail and personal service.
Social responsibility
You are a guest
Learn about the country, its culture, and its traditions before you set off for your safari. This will make it easier to dress appropriately and show respect to the locals. Remember that you are a guest in their country.
Ask questions
Do ask questions and show genuine interest in other cultures. Try memorizing a few words in Swahili; the locals will certainly appreciate it. You may be surprised how social interaction will enhance your safari experience.
Keep smiling
Here in Tanzania, time may have a different meaning than in your home country, so understand that bringing food to the table may take a little longer than you are used to. And keep smiling!
Photos
Do not take pictures of people without asking their permission first.
Gifts
Do not hand out pens, toys, or treats to children, as this encourages begging behavior.
Tipping
Would you still like to give something extra? Then tip a local employee as a reward for their good service. The salaries are considerably lower, and therefore any tip is much appreciated.
Feel free to get in touch with us for more advice about tipping or what to give.
“At the end of the day, people won’t remember what you said or did. They will remember how you made them feel.”
– Maya Angelou
Environmental responsibility
Slow safari
Travel consciously. Do not rush from lodge to lodge, trying to tick off the Big 5 at world record speed. Instead, take the time to discover every aspect of the country by slow traveling. Travel with all your senses, make it meaningful and memorable. And realize that you are at one of the most magical places on earth!
Eco-friendly activities
Include different environmentally friendly ways of transport in your safari itinerary, such as village walks, mountain bike tours, or horseback riding. You will discover that these activities offer a completely different perspective on the destination and enhance your safari experience.
Water and electricity
Use water and electricity responsibly. Power cuts are not uncommon in Tanzania, so be mindful. Also, reuse your towels and only switch on the air conditioning when needed.
No plastic
Instead of disposable plastic bottles, use the sustainable water bottle you will receive from Ajabu Adventures. You can refill your water bottle in the car and at many of the lodges where you will be staying.
Direct flight
Opt for a direct flight to Tanzania on a relatively new plane. This will significantly reduce CO2 emissions.
Compensate for your flight
Offset the carbon emissions for your international flight. With only an extra US$20 per person, you can compensate for a direct return flight from Europe to Kilimanjaro Airport, which produces about 1.8 tonnes of carbon dioxide per passenger. You can do this through our partner Carbon Tanzania, so that the proceeds directly benefit the conservation of Tanzanian forests.
Travel light
Pack light. You can cope with much less than you think. Consult our Safari Packing List for practical tips to travel comfortably during your safari in Tanzania.
Safari ethics
Leave only your footprints
Help our safari guides limit rubbish as much as possible. Leave nothing but your own footprints and take all your waste back with you.
Respect
Do not encourage your safari guide to do things that are unethical or may harass wildlife.
Enjoy quietly
Keep your voice down when you are near wildlife. Do not call out or make sudden movements to attract their attention. Just be patient and remember that even Sir David Attenborough needed years to film ‘Africa’ for the BBC Wildlife Series.
No souvenirs from the wild
Do not take souvenirs from the wild, such as animal remains. They are part of nature and do belong here.
Surprising nature
Remember that it is a privilege to see wildlife in their natural habitat. We therefore simply cannot guarantee which animals you will see or where. Leave your expectations open and be surprised.
Do’s and don’ts
At the start of your safari, your guide will explain the do’s and don’ts and share our safari rules.
Your perfect, responsible safari starts with a conversation
A truly meaningful journey balances luxury, authenticity, and sustainability. Tell us what you’re looking for, and our local experts will design a personalised itinerary that respects the land, supports local communities, and gives you the safari experience you’ve always imagined.